Grower Today

Author: Brian

  • What Does A Plum Tomato Look Like?

    What Does A Plum Tomato Look Like?

    Do you know what does a plum tomato look like, or the many types of tomatoes are confusing you, and you can barely tell them apart?

    Plum tomatoes are adored for their rich flavor that blends in with Italian food.  They are an excellent variety to grow, and gardeners across America love to grow these tomatoes.  Growing your tomatoes provides you with a bounty harvest of fresh produce that you can enjoy all through the season and store for future use.  There is such pride in growing your vegetables, and most gardeners can attest to that.

    Let’s go over some essential facts and tips and learn what does a plum tomato look like to know them better.

    What are plum tomatoes?

    Plum tomatoes are long, plum-shaped tomatoes explicitly grown for making tomato sauce. These tomatoes have been bred for a long time – hundreds of years to produce the best tomatoes for making tomato sauce.

    The plum or oblong shape allows for only 2 seed compartments, called locules, to grow inside the plum tomato. Fewer seed compartments mean more yummy tomato pulp! It also means less work while removing the seed pockets as part of tomato processing.

    Plum tomatoes are dense tomatoes that are meaty, meaning they are mainly full of pulp with few seeds. Most of these plum tomatoes are red with brightly colored skin, and they are more firm when ripe than other varieties. They are also grown for market handling and packing and have a longer shelf life than other tomatoes.

    What does a plum tomato look like?

    Plum tomatoes look pear or egg-shaped.  This oblong tomato can easily fit in the palm of your hand.  It has a firm texture and robust flavor that blend well with Italian cuisines and hearty sauces.

    What is considered a plum tomato?

    Having identified what does a plum tomato look like, let’s look at the following known well-known types of plum tomatoes.

    Small Plum Tomatoes

    Also known as grape tomatoes because of their small size, these tomatoes are more oval than round in shape.  They are of the South East Asian origin and grow in the climate closely related to that region. They have a vibrant red color and are slightly oval, making them distinct from cherry tomatoes.  The small plum tomatoes are best used for stir-fry recipes, certain types of salads, sautéed vegetable mix. Their taste is just as sweet as the much-loved cherry tomatoes.

    Italian Style Plum Tomatoes

    Italian plum tomatoes are best for cooking and can be added to sauces, jams, pickles, purees, gravies, and soups. These are the most commonly grown plum tomatoes, with most gardeners assuming it is the only type of plum tomato.  These tomatoes are a larger and more vibrant, bright red color with a firm structure.  If you are cooking some meat – Italian plum tomatoes are the ones you should opt for.

    What is considered a plum tomato

    San Marzano Plum Tomatoes

    The one significant difference between San Marzano plum tomatoes and the other plum tomatoes is this variety’s long and pointed shape.  These tomatoes are cylindrical and come with an extended tip.  They are named after the San Marzano town in Italy, where they were first grown.  They thrive in a warmer climate for better growth.

    Roma VF Plum Tomatoes

    The Roma VF plum tomatoes are a unique variety of plum tomato grown through an openly pollinated variety of plants instead of a hybrid. This variety is the one commonly produced commercially. It is pear-shaped, and its vibrant color is attractive. This variety boils faster and is easily canned.

    Here is a list of some harder to find plum tomato cultivar types

    • Supremo
    • Speckled Roman
    • Rio Grande
    • Black Plum
    • Gladiator
    • Lucky Tiger
    • Banana Legs
    • SuperSauce
    • Orange Icicle
    • Black Icicle
    • Chocolate Pear
    • Jersey Devil
    • Howard’s German
    • Striped Roman
    • Martino’s Roma
    • Opalka
    • Rocky
    • San Remo

    What tomatoes are similar to plum tomatoes?

    If you don’t have plum tomatoes, you can use other tomatoes that are similar to them.  They include

    Grape tomatoes

    Grape tomatoes look like small plum tomatoes.  They are bigger than cherry tomatoes and are not too sweet, making them a better option when replacing plum tomatoes in a recipe.

    Grape tomatoes add texture to your recipes, and those craving the right consistency are closely related to the plum tomato.  They are perfect for snacking, salads and can be locally grown.  You will not have to compromise on either flavor or texture.

    Here are some varieties of grape tomatoes:

    • Tiger Stripes
    • Datterino
    • Italian Winter Grape
    • Little Mama
    • Yellow Pear
    • Brad’s Atomic Grape
    • Beefsteak tomatoes

    Beefsteak tomatoes

    Beefsteak tomatoes are an excellent replacement for plum tomatoes as crushed tomatoes for cooking sauces.

    Like plum varieties, the beefsteak tomato has lower water content and fewer seeds. The main difference is the taste; beefsteaks have a milder flavor and are an excellent substitute in sauces where you’ll be adding extra ingredients.

    Campari tomatoes

    These are medium-sized tomatoes known for their sweetness and juicy. They have more water contents than plum tomatoes, but to eliminate it, you can cook them longer than you would other tomatoes to allow more liquid to be released and reduced.  You can also crush them during the cooking process to give them excellent consistency.

    Their flavor is not like regular tomatoes; thus, they make an excellent substitute for plum tomatoes.  Their consistency and texture are the same.

    Which is the best plum tomato?

    Roma VF plum tomatoes are some of the finest varieties of plum tomato.  This variety was developed by the USDA in the 1950s.  They are the most common commercially grown plum tomatoes in America.  Roma tomatoes are grown from Roma VF tomato seeds and are a determinate type.  It is perfect for making Italian-style tomato sauce and tomato paste.

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    Final thoughts on what does a plum tomato look like

    You not only know what does a plum tomato look like, but you also know what other types can be used in the place of this exquisite tomato.

    Who knew tomatoes got class? Yeah, they are also classified according to their flavor, and the plum tomatoes have always flown that flag very high. All the other tomatoes are not suitable replacements for plum tomatoes as they carry too much water that could cause an imbalance in your dish.

  • Will A Pumpkin Ripen Off The Vine?

    Will A Pumpkin Ripen Off The Vine?

    Will a pumpkin ripen off the vine if you harvest it before it completely matures, or will it go bad when you store it?

    Growing pumpkins is a fun summer adventure and even better as you harvest those bigger fruits. Pumpkins are excellent vegetables that you can easily grow in your garden or containers. As you grow them, it is crucial to know when to harvest them and also know will a pumpkin ripen off the vine.

    As long as there is no frost, your pumpkin is fine and better off left in the vine until it matures. It will continue to grow as long as the leaves and vine are healthy. If the vine and leaves are healthy, your pumpkin will grow well until harvesting.

    There are enough signs that show your pumpkin is ready for harvest that even a new gardener will know. We will look at all these signs and how to harvest and store your pumpkins.

    Will A Pumpkin Ripen Off The Vine?

    If you have been wondering will pumpkin ripen after being picked, wonder no more. Yes, your pumpkins will ripen! But there are three critical things you need to do to ensure this process is successful and attain lovely orange pumpkins like those used for Halloween.

    How To Ripen Pumpkins – Will A Pumpkin Ripen Off The Vine?

    Will a pumpkin ripen off the vine if you harvest it before it’s fully ripe? This is a question that most gardeners ask, and we will look at the details herein. The ripening process is slow for a pumpkin on colder days than when the sun is hot.

    If you harvest your pumpkin before it ripens off, place your pumpkins in an open area facing the sun. Let them face the south to expose them to direct sunlight. The amount of sun they receive will help them ripen faster.

    You can speed up ripening by ensuring nothing blocks the sun’s rays. Wipe the pumpkin surface using a rag or towel to remove dirt or anything else blocking the sun’s rays. Also, remove any objects like pots, furniture, or garden implements.

    Make sure nothing is blocking the sun’s rays. Wipe clean the surface of the pumpkins occasionally with a rag or towel. This removes dirt, grease, and any film on the surface, blocking the sun’s rays. Also, remove any objects, such as pots, yard equipment, furniture, or garden equipment casting a shadow on the pumpkins.

    Rotate your pumpkins each day when setting them under the sunlight. This ensures different sides get plenty of sun. If one side takes longer to ripen, turn it upward to face the sun directly. If your front porch gets more sunlight than the back porch, set your pumpkins there to give them plenty of sun.

    What Can I Do With Unripe Pumpkin?

    Pumpkins are a fruit botanically, but we use them as vegetables. If you harvest immature pumpkins, don’t give up or feel troubled, they will continue to ripen after picking, just like fruits.

    Harvest unripe pumpkins in the same way you do for the ripe ones – cut them off from the vine leaving at least an inch of stem on the fruit. Be gentle with the squash as you harvest, knowing the skin is not fully cured yet.

    Wash off the dirt and any bugs that could be holding on with a damp cloth to allow the sun to penetrate without anything blocking it.

    How Do I Know If A Pumpkin Is Ripe?

    If you are a new gardener growing pumpkins, you might be wondering how to tell if your pumpkin is ripe. It will come as a relief to discover that there are many ways to know if your pumpkins are ready for harvesting.

    As long as you know what signs to look out for, you will enjoy growing and using these for your soups, pie, or Halloween. Here are several things to look out for

    The Color

    All immature pumpkins are green, so it’s right to assume that a pumpkin is not ripe until it turns orange, right? Or the color it’s meant to be at maturity? Well maybe. So what color is a ripe pumpkin supposed to be? Most people say orange, but pumpkins come in different shades, even grey, blue, stripy, or white.

    However, generally, the common color is orange, and it’s a good indicator of ripe pumpkins. If you are growing some other colored pumpkins, hold on to the seed pack until you know the color to expect at maturity.

    Generally, color is a good indicator that your pumpkin is ready for picking. Even if your pumpkin does not turn orange, it will turn to the color it’s supposed to be when mature.

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    The Rind

    If your pumpkin’s skin is hard, it means it’s ripe. To test its maturity, try to pierce the skin with your fingernail. It should resist puncture! The pumpkin is ready for picking if the skin dents but does not puncture. The squash shell must be hard and firm if you plan to keep this pumpkin for several months.   The shell protects your pumpkin from pests and diseases; that’s why it’s a bit tough to break.

    The Sound

    A ripe pumpkin produces a hollow sound when you tap or knock at it. Your pumpkin must already show signs of maturity before you begin tapping on it. You don’t want to start tapping too early, or you won’t even know the sound you are looking for.

    The Stem

    When the stem above the pumpkin begins to turn brown and becomes tough, this is another indicator that your pumpkin is ripe. The pumpkin stem feels tough to the touch and does not detach easily. This means your plant is mature and can be harvested. Remember, this stem will come in handy after harvesting as it will help cure and prolong the shelf life of your pumpkin. The vine will also begin to dry and taper down the amount of nutrients it gives to the fruit.

    how to ripen pumpkins

    How Long Does It Take For a Pumpkin To Ripen?

    Most pumpkin varieties produce ripe fruit within 120 days. Depending on which type you plant, your earliest harvest can be 90 days after you sow the seeds. If your pumpkins start developing their mature color, they will ripen off the vine. You can cut the fruit off its stem, leaving several inches of stem attached. 

    It’s best to allow your pumpkins to ripen on the vine. But frost can force you to harvest early. 

    What Time of the Year Are Pumpkins Ready?

    You can start harvesting your pumpkins by mid-fall. When this is will depend on where you live. A good rule of thumb is to get them off the vine before the frost comes. They don’t do well in cold weather, and frost will damage them. 

    Here are a few signs to help you know if your pumpkins are ready:

    • Ready-to-harvest pumpkins are fully colored. 
    • A ripe pumpkin’s rind is firm. 
    • If your fingernail can easily pierce through the pumpkin skin, it’s not ripe. 
    • Ripe pumpkins sound hollow.

    What Does a Ripe Pumpkin Look Like Inside?

    The flesh of a ripe pumpkin can be yellow, orange, or even white. There are many varieties, and the color of their inside differs. One universal thing is that they have seeds in their hallow center. The seeds are entangled with flesh called guts. 

    You can roast and eat the seeds as a delicious snack! The guts make an excellent base for a broth. Everything inside a pumpkin is edible, so nothing has to go to waste. 

    Pumpkin flesh is thick and nutrient-dense. However, its seeds are packed with antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, and iron, making it the best part to eat. 

    Why Are My Pumpkins Ripening Early?

    Pumpkins grown in ideal conditions are likely to ripen earlier than expected. If your average temperatures are between 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit, your pumpkins might ripen earlier. The humidity level that should accompany these temperatures is 80-85%. If nighttime temperatures don’t drop below 60 degrees, your pumpkins will also thrive.

    Pumpkins left on the vine also ripen early. Once a pumpkin changes color, you can leave it on the vine for quick ripening or take it off to prolong this stage.

    The more sunlight pumpkins get, the faster they ripen. Always keep this in mind when choosing a planting spot or somewhere to store your pumpkins after you’ve harvested them. 

    What to do if pumpkins ripen too early?

    If your pumpkins ripen too early, making them last long enough might be your biggest concern. With the right storage techniques, you won’t have to worry. You can leave your ripe pumpkins on the vine until the stem is dry and cracked. Then, leave them in the sun to cure for ten days.

    You can also pick your pumpkins earlier if you notice they start ripening. Store them in a dark, cool area to prolong their shelf life. 

    Are Pumpkins Green Waste?

    Pumpkins are green waste. The rind, flesh, and seeds will break down in a compost heap. You can cut big pieces smaller to ensure they decompose quicker. Don’t throw your leftover pumpkin in the landfill. It will break down much slower and release methane. 

    Conclusion

    Now that we have settled the argument, will a pumpkin ripen off the vine, lets’s see what you plan on doing with your great ready pumpkins.

    Pumpkins recipes are so many you cannot even make all of them. So what do you plan on making with your newly harvested or cured pumpkin? A pie, soup, roasting it, dessert, or you want to add it on to other foods?

    You can make all the ultimate comfort foods you ever wanted. Share with us and let us know want is your favorite thing to do with your homegrown pumpkins.

    Read more about How To Keep Squirrels Away From Pumpkin Plants?

    FAQs

    Will pumpkins ripen after being picked?

    Yes, they will.
    Pumpkins are picked at various stages of maturity, depending on the variety, size and storage conditions. Pumpkins can be stored in a refrigerator for several weeks.
    The best way to tell if a pumpkin is ripe is to pick it up by the stem and shake it. If it’s firm, it’s ripe. If it feels soft and spongy, it’s not. Some pumpkins are picked before they’re fully mature (usually to get them to market faster), but this doesn’t seem to affect their quality much.

    Will pumpkins turn orange if picked green?

    Generally, they won´t.
    It depends on what variety you are growing. Some are ready to harvest when they have a very small yellowish orange color and some take a couple weeks longer. If they are still white at the end of the season, you can wait until they start turning orange.

    What happens if you pick a pumpkin too early?

    You might get a pumpkin that is not fully ripe, which means it will be hard to carve. If you decide to harvest the pumpkin too early, you might lose a good amount of its flesh to rot.
    Picking a pumpkin at the wrong time also leaves you with an empty seed cavity. And, if you do try to harvest a pumpkin too early, you will not be able to dry it properly.

    How can you tell when a pumpkin is ready to be harvested?

    The stem of a pumpkin will start to wither after the first frost in your area. If you are in a warmer climate, you might not have to wait until the first frost, but you should still pick your pumpkin before it starts to rot. You can tell whether your pumpkin is ready to be harvested by looking at the stem. It should look dried up and brittle, rather than green and pliable. You may need to take a close look to see if it has started to shrivel.

    How do you get pumpkins to ripen?

    If you want your pumpkin to ripen faster, then you have to put it in a warm room. If you live in the South, your pumpkin may ripen faster if you put the pumpkin in a greenhouse or porch.
    Pumpkins are ready when the stem is soft and the color of the flesh is beginning to turn from green to orange. To test, take a small piece of pumpkin and press it between your fingers. It should feel soft but not mushy. When it’s ripe, it’ll be firm enough to stand up on its own.

    Can you leave pumpkins on the vine too long?

    Yes, you can leave them on the vine for a few more days, but you need to keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t dry out. I usually just cut them down and pick them up when I’m ready to use them, but I’ve also left them on the vines for several weeks with no ill effects.

  • How Much Dolomite Lime Per Gallon Of Soil?

    How Much Dolomite Lime Per Gallon Of Soil?

    How much dolomite lime per gallon of soil is a crucial question to answer before adding any amount of lime to your garden?

    Though lime is important to your garden, it is important to know the right amount to add to the soil to avoid damaging your soil and plants.

    Dolomite lime is one of the most commonly used limes in soils across America. It is a good source of calcium and magnesium for your garden and lawn. It is made up of ground limestone.

    Lime increases the soil’s pH while decreasing acidity. By neutralizing acidic soils, the plants are able to absorb nutrients from the soil easily. Lime also improves the soil texture and helps convert other soil nutrients into usable forms.

    Vegetables like lettuce, peas, beans, spinach, cabbage, and other greens benefit from recently limed soil. This is because they grow in slightly acidic soils of a pH value of 6 and 7.

    How Much Dolomite Lime Per Gallon Of Soil

    Let’s get this clear, to determine how much dolomite lime per gallon of soil depends on the pH level of your soil. If you have not carried out the soil tests, it is safe to apply the dolomite lime at a ratio of 1 cup (250ml) for every 15 square meters or 50 square feet garden.

    To add lime to your garden, sprinkle the lime evenly over dry soil and rake it into the soil, mixing it in as deep as possible. Add the lime before planting time and by spring, the soil will be ready for growing vegetables.

    For every gallon of soil, add at least one-half to a half-ounce of dolomite per gallon of soil. Mix the lime with the soil before planting to give it time to stabilize the pH level and fully take effect.

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    How Much Dolomite Lime Per Gallon Of Soil – Can You Add Too Much Dolomite Lime?

    It is possible to add too much dolomite lime (calcium carbonate) to your soil. Lime provides calcium to plants when added in the right amounts, and raises the pH of acidic soil. However, if you add too much, you can cause several problems with your soil, including:

    High soil pH

    Too much lime in your soil makes your soil pH too high. Most plants prefer a pH value of 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic.

    A small change in the pH of the soil can cause big problems for your plants. When the pH gets too high, plants are not able to absorb nutrients through their roots. Unfortunately, high soil pH can cause nutrient deficiency even if there is plenty of that nutrient in the soil! Adding fertilizer in this case won’t necessarily fix the nutrient deficiency caused by high soil pH.

    Too much lime causes excessive calcium in the soil

    Another problem of adding too much lime to your soil is getting excessive calcium in your soil.

    Yes,calcium is an important nutrient for the health of plants – it builds the cell walls, extends primary roots, and transports nutrients. However, too much of it will cause problems. For example, high levels of calcium in the soil prevent plants from absorbing magnesium. Magnesium is the central atom in a molecule of chlorophyll. You can imagine the problems a plant will face if unable to absorb enough magnesium to make chlorophyll!

    A rapid spike in pH

    Finally, if you add too much lime to the soil at once, it can cause too much fast-acting lime to your soil all at once. The plants growing in your garden or container will get shocked by the rapid change in pH damaging them.

    The solution to this problem is to add lime in the fall after the harvest is over to avoid endangering any plants. Another solution is to split the application of lime and use half of what you need in the fall, and the other half in the spring before planting.

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    How Do You Add Dolomite Lime To The Soil?

    Applying dolomite lime requires good timing. Technically, you can apply lime to your garden any time as long as there is no frost, snow, or freezing temperatures. That said, spring and fall are the best times, your plants get to receive the maximum benefit.

    Choose a clear day to apply lime so that it’s absorbed relatively fast. A clear day reduces the likelihood of the lime running off before it’s absorbed.

    If you are adding dolomite lime to boost your calcium and magnesium level, apply it at least 2 to 3 weeks before planting. This will give it enough time to break down, start working and give your plants the boost they need. To apply dolomite lime, mix it thoroughly with the top 6 inches of soil.

    If you are adding dolomite lime to change the soil pH, calculate how much you need after carrying the soil test. For example, if the soil has a pH of 5.5 and you want it to get to 6.5; you will need to add 5 pounds of dolomite lime for every 100 square feet of space. If you need to add more than 5 pounds, it is critical to spread them through different applications throughout the growing season. That way, you won’t have to worry about damaging your plants with an excess of nutrients.

    Before applying any lime, it is advisable to test your soil to know exactly what it needs rather than the following guesswork. If your soil has plenty of magnesium and calcium, and already has a neutral to alkaline pH, adding lime will not do you any good. It can actually harm the plants.

    How Much Does Dolomite Lime Add To Potting Soil?

    You can add dolomite lime to the potting mix before planting since it has calcium and magnesium. Use one tablespoon of lime per gallon of soil mixture. You can also add fertilizer when mixing your own potting soil to get it ready for planting in a few weeks.

    How To Use Dolomite Lime In Potted Plants?

    You can add dolomite lime in potted plants at planting time since it has magnesium and calcium. Apply one tablespoon of lime per gallon of soil mixture at planting time but be careful to mix it properly. You will provide your plants with the right nutrients and stabilize your soil pH, providing a perfect environment for growth.

    How do you add dolomite lime to soil?

    Dolomite lime is a naturally occurring limestone with the chemical composition CaMg(CO). It is an effective liming agent and can be used for soil acidification. It is sold as a powder, granules or pellets, depending on the application method. How do you add dolomite lime to soil? Dolomite lime can be added to soils in a number of ways.

    1.By mixing it into the soil

    2. By spreading it on the soil

    3. By adding it to the irrigation water.

    How much dolomitic lime do I need?

    If you are trying to get the pH up, and you want to make sure that it stays at a certain level, you should add enough dolomite to raise the pH. Dolomite is the form of calcium carbonate that is typically added to soil, and is used as a soil amendment for this reason.
    It can also be used in water to control algae growth.
    A rule to follow is to to use 2 tablespoons of the lime per cubic foot of soil.to be able to raise de ph level.

    Can you add too much dolomite lime?

    I’d say there is no harm in adding a bit extra but you might want to make sure that you don’t over do it or you’ll end up with an overly alkaline soil.

    If you use more than the recommended amount, you will have to add more fertilizer to compensate for the extra magnesium. This is not a problem if you are using a complete fertilizer. If you are not using a complete fertilizer, you will need to add more nitrogen as well.

    How long does dolomitic lime last?

    Dolomite lime is a very good product for softening hard water. It has a long shelf life, lasting up to 18 months, or even longer. In terms of pH, you should have a pH between 7 and 8 after the application. You can adjust the pH with other products, like regular lime.
    .
    Dolomitic lime is a type of limestone that contains calcium carbonate, and is used to help reduce the hardness of water. The actual amount of limestone used will determine how much effect it will have on the water quality. Generally speaking, you would use enough to get a pH between 7-8. A quick test can be done with a pocket scale or test kit. The more limestone used, the higher the pH will be.

    What is the difference between dolomitic lime and regular lime?

    Dolomitic lime is generally used in areas where the water is hard and high in calcium, as it helps to lower the pH. It can also be used to raise the pH when needed. Lime is used for most residential applications. Dolomite is a mineral that contains calcium and magnesium, and is the same thing as dolomitic lime.

    Final Thoughts On How Much Dolomite Lime Per Gallon Of Soil

    Now that you know how much dolomite lime per gallon of soil, it is important to carry out a soil test before adding any of it.

    If you are ready to give dolomite lime for plants in your garden a try today, don’t waste any more time. You can buy this compound in a garden supplements shop. Don’t forget to buy a pH meter and soil test kit to help your gardening become better.

  • A Guide On What Do Carrot Plants Look Like?

    A Guide On What Do Carrot Plants Look Like?

    Are you wondering what do carrot plants look like? We have all the details that you need to know about growing carrots.

    Growing carrots is a wonderful experience for any gardener.  But it could be challenging if you cannot identify their leaves immediately after sprouting.

    Most gardeners fail to know what do carrot plants look like immediately after sprouting and may confuse them with grass.

    So how do you know how to identify these plants from the time they sprout till they bloom?  If you stick here, we have all the details you ought to know.

    What Does A Carrot Plant Look Like When It Starts Growing?

    Most gardeners do not have a problem identifying a grown carrot plant, but they don’t know what carrot plants look like when they sprout. So what do carrot sprouts look like?

    Once sown, a carrot seed takes about 2-3 weeks to germinate. Once it germinates, you will see tiny grass-like sprouts.  These are also known as carrots seedlings.  They have a fine texture, but after a few days, the leaves thicken up, and they become easy to identify.

    What Do Carrot Plants Look Like? Differentiate Carrots Sprouts From Grass

    If you sow your carrot seeds where grass or weeds grow, it may be slightly tough to spot them.  The carrot leaves usually germinate from a single spot and look smoother and silkier with a delicate texture.

    When looking for carrot sprouts, a simple trick is to smell the baby leaves. Pinch a tiny part of the leaf and smell – they will smell similar to carrots.

    Sowing tip:  Mark the area where you sow your carrot seeds.  This way, you will be able to identify your sprouts easily.  You can also make a raised bed specifically for your carrot seeds or grow them in containers.

    What Color Is A Carrot?

    In addition to the popular orange color, carrots can also be red, purple, white, or yellow. Before the 16th Century, all carrots were a deep, black purple.  The Dutch growers later developed the sweet, plump orange carrot that became so famous you would think it was the first to be cultivated.

    Today carrots are available in a rainbow of colors – white, purple, red, yellow, and orange. Multi-colored carrots are still rare in most grocery stores but check out your gardening neighbors or the next farmer’s market this summer, and you will see a variety of these colors.

    So that you know, rainbow-colored carrots taste different from ordinary orange carrots. Yellow carrots have an earthy-sweet flavor like parsley or celery.  White carrots are quite mild. Purple carrots can have a peppery flavor that can also be very sweet.

    What do carrots look like when they are ready to harvest

    What Do Carrot Flowers Look Like?

    Carrot flowers are usually white and lacy, although purple carrot varieties have purple flowers. Being an umbel-type flower, it begins as a single stalk and grows into a bowl-shaped bloom with smaller stalks on top. The smaller stalks will then produce little white flowers at their ends.

    Should You Allow Your Carrots To Flower?

    A flowering carrot signifies that your plant has bolted and is not good to eat.  That’s why you will not see gardeners leaving their carrots to flower.  They harvest them young and fresh when they are full of flavor.

    Flowering carrots will soon produce a batch of seeds meaning its overgrown.  Flowering may also occur prematurely if the plant is growing under warm weather.  Warm weather tricks the plant into putting energy into the flower rather than the root, causing white flowers to bloom and your carrot to bolt too early.

    To keep your carrots from flowering, regularly sow carrots every couple of weeks during the season.  Some of them will do well regardless of the weather changes.

    How Do You Know When Carrots Are Growing?

    Carrot seeds, once sown, are slow to germinate.  They require lots of patience as it may take 2 to 3 weeks for them to show any signs of germination.

    In a few more weeks, you will have many seedlings already germinated.  At about 2 inches tall, thin to one plant every 4-6 inches. Instead of pulling them out and risking damaging the rest of the plants, snip them off at the soil level.

    Provide your carrots with consistent water as they grow, about 1 inch per week. Mulch around the plants to keep the soil moist and weeds away. As the carrot roots grow and begin to push up from the soil, cover them with mulch to avoid discoloration from sunlight.

    In warmer climates, you may be able to grow carrots through the winter by mulching them.  However, in climates where the ground freezes and temperatures consistently remain under 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s best to harvest your carrots in late autumn.

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    What Do Carrots Look Like When They Are Ready To Harvest?

    What do carrot plants look like when they are ready for harvesting?  The plants begin to turn yellow or brown slightly on the edges as a sign of maturity.  When you decide to harvest your carrots, you will need to know if they are ready.  It depends on the desired size of maturity of each person; some love them young and flavorful while others love them a bit large.

    Carrots are ready for harvest 60-80 days after sowing seeds, depending on the variety. The tops are about 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter and are likely to start popping out of the soil.  They also have a vibrant color.  If you can see your carrots peeking at you from the ground, it’s time to harvest them. The smallest you want the carrots to be before harvesting is the size of your thumb, but you can grow them larger by letting them grow some more.

    Carrots generally mature around the same time if you plant them together.  However, you don’t have to harvest them all at once.  You can leave some in the soil to preserve them if the weather is still pleasant.  During winter, dig them up and store them in the refrigerator for future use.

    FAQs

    What should I consider when shopping for a Ph meter?

    The most accurate way to measure pH is with a pH meter. The only problem with pH meters is that they are not cheap and they require some maintenance, but if you are doing research or have a large area to sample, then a pH meter is the way to go. The pH scale can vary by about 0.2 units from lab to lab and even more than that depending on the pH of the water used.

    If you are using a meter that isn’t calibrated, it will have an error. You can buy meters that are calibrated for your soil type and the amount of acidity in your area, but even these meters will not be perfect. A good calibration can help you determine the amount of acidity in your soil and also help you understand how to adjust the readings when you dig new holes.

    What is the most accurate soil pH meter?

    There are a variety of soil pH meters available on the market. Soil pH is one of the most common chemical analyses performed by a home or professional gardener. The most accurate soil pH meter will give you a more accurate reading, which in turn will provide you with an idea of what type of fertilizer to use.

    Many of the soil pH meters available on the market are designed to be used by a professional who has access to a lab and is trained in the use of such equipment. However, there are many soil pH meters that can be used in the home, so it is important to know how to select one that will provide the best reading. There are many factors that go into choosing a soil pH meter for your home garden. First of all, you want to make sure that the meter can be used in the field. Some soil pH meters are designed to be used in the laboratory, while others are designed for the home gardener. Also, you want to make sure that you get a soil pH meter that will provide you with an accurate reading. A soil pH meter should give you a reading that is within one pH unit of the true pH value of the soil.

    What makes the most accurate soil pH meters so accurate?

    Soil pH is a measurement of how acidic or alkaline a soil is. The best soil pH meters measure the actual soil pH and then convert it into a pH number that you can see on your meter. Most people use a soil pH meter to find out what is causing their plants to be sick, and if they need to add some lime or sulfur to make the soil more acidic or alkaline.

    The most accurate soil pH meter should be able to measure soil acidity or alkalinity in a wide range of soil types, and be able to measure the acidity of the soil at the depth where the test sample is taken. Soil pH testing requires knowledge of both soil chemistry and soil physics, as well as knowledge of how the pH meter is calibrated. It is also important to understand the limitations of using a soil pH meter.

    Soil pH meters can be found in a wide range of prices and accuracy. 

    Take-Home

    Besides learning what do carrot plants look like, we have also learned how to tell the sprouts apart from grass or weeds and how to grow carrots from seed to harvesting time.

    Did you know you can grow your carrots in your small garden or pots on your patio?  Yes, these rich vegetables can become a part of your gardening lifestyle due to their easy care and maintenance.

    Remember to harvest your carrots when they are still fresh to avoid bolting.  Once bolted, they get a bitter taste that is unpleasant to eat.

  • How Many Tomato Plants Per 5-gallon Bucket?

    How Many Tomato Plants Per 5-gallon Bucket?

    How many tomato plants per 5-gallon bucket is a question most gardeners ask in order to plan their container gardening?

    Are you planning on growing tomatoes in a container? You may be wondering how many tomatoes to grow in a container.

    It is important to know that growing tomatoes in containers is highly beneficial to the gardener who does not have plenty of garden space to do so.

    However, you must provide the plant with the right growing conditions, even on the container. So let’s learn about the tomato plants you can grow per 5 gallons bucket.

    How Many Tomato Plants Per 5-Gallon Bucket?

    Besides the convenience associated with container planting, tomatoes also perform well because they have plenty of room and adequate nutrients. Container-grown tomatoes do not share nutrients with other plants as they are grown on their own.

    So to answer the question of how many tomatoes per 5-gallon container, you will need to plant only 1 plant.

    Whether you are growing determinate or indeterminate cultivars, it’s best to plant one tomato per 5-gallon bucket to get the best results.

    Tomato plants do well in warm soil! Black buckets are ideal for growing tomatoes as they absorb up heat providing warm soil even at night.

    Just 1 Tomato Plant Per 5-Gallon Bucket

    Will Tomato Plants Grow In A 5-Gallon Bucket?

    One of the most important things in growing tomatoes in containers is to ensure you use a large container – the bigger, the better.

    Generally, for each plant, you need a container that is at least 1 square foot; however, 2 square feet is better.

    A five-gallon bucket is ideal for one tomato plant, whatever the type. Fill this container with a high-quality potting mix and ensure it has proper drainage.

    Some gardeners add small herbs or other plants in the same container you are growing the tomato; however, we advise you not to do it as a new gardener. Even if you have a bigger container, you do not want to plant other plants that may compete with the tomato plants for nutrients and water.

    How Do You Grow Tomatoes In A 5-Gallon Bucket?

    The practical part of growing tomatoes in a 5-gallon bucket is what we will look at

    What You Need

    • 5-gallon bucket per seedling
    • Drill
    • Peat Moss
    • Potting soil
    • Perlite
    • Tomato Seedlings
    • Tomato cages
    • Water-soluble fertilizer

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    Please Note: Indeterminate tomatoes grow tall and require caging or staking to support both the plant and fruit. Determinate tomatoes grow to a specific height of about 1 1/2 to 2 feet and stop growing.

    The Determinate variety might need some support, especially if the fruit is heavy. However, some types are entirely self-supporting, including, Tumbler and  Window Box Roma.

    Steps to follow when planting tomatoes in a 5 –gallon bucket

    Drill Drainage Holes

    Turn your bucket over and drill at least 4 to 6 half-inch drainage holes, spacing them evenly over the bottom of the bucket.

    Look For An Ideal Place To Grow Your Tomatoes

    Place the ready bucket in an area receiving full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day.

    Add The Potting Mix

    Once you have set your bucket in an ideal growing location, fill it ½ to ¾ with a mixture of equal parts perlite, peat moss, or sand, plus organically rich potting soil.

    Plant The Seedling

    Transplant your tomato seedling from its nursery to the ready container. Position the seedling in the center of the bucket, leave the top 2 to 4 leaves above the surface. Fill in the soil around the roots and stem and firm it down using your hands to secure the seedling. Be very careful not to damage the roots.

    Add A Trellis

    If growing indeterminate tomatoes or if your determinate one requires support, add a stake, trellis, or tomato cage immediately after planting to avoid disturbing the roots later.

    Water Deeply

    Water your planted tomatoes deeply until it overflows through the bottom of the bucket.

    Add Fertilizer

    Apply a water-soluble fertilizer to the moist soil. The fertilizer must be designed for tomato plants. Put more fertilizer every 10 to 14 days.

    Add Fertilizer

    Maintain Soil Moisture

    All through the growing season, water your plant thoroughly, whenever the soil feels dry at least 1 inch below the surface. During the hot and dry spells, adjust watering to daily. The soil in containers is prone to drying more quickly than garden soil. Lack of water makes your tomato plants stressed, preventing the absorption of calcium from the soil. Excessive dryness causes blossom end rot in your tomatoes.

    How Much Soil Do I Need For A 5-Gallon Bucket?

    Before we even think of how much soil a 5-gallon bucket needs, let’s look at the condition of the potting soil.

    Fill your containers with rich well-draining soil. Ordinary potting soil is available but you can add a bit of compost, perlite, and sand to lighten it up even more and provide plenty of nutrients.

    Compost manure really adds serious power to the soil. It is also incomparable with all its natural benefits. Perlite is white, a popcorn-like substance that you can also add to your potting soil. Perlite keeps soil loose allowing good drainage while lightening the weight of the soil.

    Filling The Buckets

    A 5-gallon bucket is about 14 inches high and 12 inches in diameter. You will need about .75 cubic feet of potting soil to fill it. The amount of soil you put can vary with the drainage material you put at the bottom of the bucket.

    Learn how to display your buckets maybe in a  planter box to make them more attractive. Place your trellis and other support you choose along with the pots as soon as you plant.

    How Much Soil Do I Need For A 5-Gallon Bucket

     

    FAQs

    How many tomato plants can you put in a 5 gallon bucket?

    There is a limit to the number of tomato plants you can grow in a bucket. However, it is not a fixed number; the more water you use, the fewer plants you can fit in the bucket. That said, it is not a good idea to have a bucket full of water when you are trying to grow plants. If you do this, you’ll be wasting water and the plants will probably not grow well. I like to grow tomato plants in pots because I like to look at them. I don’t want to have to bend down to look at a bucket. And I like to keep my plants out of the way of other plants.

    It depends on how large your bucket is. I have a 5 gallon bucket that I use for growing tomatoes. When I first started, I planted a single tomato plant in it. Then after a few days, the plant grew so much that I was able to place another tomato plant in the same bucket. In this way, I was able to keep two plants in the bucket, with room to grow.

    How many tomato plants should I plant?

    The most important thing to remember is that it’s not just the number of plants that matters, but also their age, spacing, and environment. If you have a greenhouse or heated garage, you’ll likely be able to grow several more plants than if you’re trying to grow tomatoes in the middle of winter. You’ll need to consider the amount of light you have available, as well as any issues with temperature, humidity, and soil.If you have a large garden, you can count on using 3/4 of a cup per plant. If you’re growing a few plants in a small area, you can use 1/2 of a cup per plant. If you’re growing lots of plants in a small space, you’ll want to use more like a cup per plant.If you’re growing in pots, you’ll want to use about twice as much compost as you would if you were growing directly in the ground.

    How do you know when you are ready to transplant your tomatoes?

    When you can see the tomato leaves start to bend over and touch the ground.

    Where do you drill a 5 gallon bucket for tomatoes?

    I have found that drilling only one side gives me enough ventilation for the fruit to breathe. I don’t know if it’s necessary or not, but I’ve never had a problem. If you drill both sides you may end up with a weak bucket because the holes will weaken the plastic.

    What should you do if your tomato plant starts to look weak or sickly?

    If your tomato plant looks weak, do not let it go to waste! If you find that your tomato plant is beginning to wilt or turn brown, try to remove it from its pot. Then take a bucket and fill it with water.

    Make sure to add some bleach or chlorine to the water. This will help keep the bacteria and fungus at bay. Place your tomato plant in the bucket and let it soak for at least 2 hours. Be sure to change the water every so often. After 2 hours, remove the plant from the bucket and pat dry. If you want to repot your tomato plant, use a pot that is larger than the one you used before.

    Final Thoughts

    Who says you cannot enjoy some homegrown tomatoes just because you don’t have a garden? A 5-gallon bucket can be your garden providing you with plenty of tomatoes all through the season. More so, you can have beautiful tomato plants on your patio, balcony, porch, deck, or driveway.

    It’s now your turn to get practical! By learning how many tomato plants per 5-gallon bucket, you can avoid the mess of overcrowding your plants. And don’t forget to share the results.

  • All You Need To Know About The Tomato Hornworm Killer

    All You Need To Know About The Tomato Hornworm Killer

    The tomato hornworm killer is a common pest that attacks your healthy tomato plants, destroying them with their horn-like protrusion in their rear.

    The common tomato hornworm is one of the most destructive pests throughout North America. It destroys tomato, pepper, potato, eggplant, and tobacco plants.

    These worms consume the entire leaves, small stems, and fruits. Even though they are large, these worms are difficult to spot during the day because of their protective coloring.

    Gardeners will mostly only find the large areas eaten but not see this pest. Damage from this worm is commonly noticed in midsummer all through the remainder of the growing season.

    Identifying Tomato Hornworm Killer

    Hornworms are about 5 inches long shocking most gardeners spotting them for the first time. They are most destructive during their caterpillar-larvae stage. 

    These worms are pale green in color with white and black markings, with a horn-like protrusion coming up from their rear. They also have eight V-shaped stripes decorating their green body.

    Identifying Tomato Hornworm Killer

    The larvae blend in totally with the plant greenery, making them hard to spot. If you cannot yet spot them, look for the following signs.

    • Look for chewed or missing leaves from your plant. Hornworms start feeding on the top of the plant.
    • Keenly look at the top of your tomato leaves for black droppings left by the larvae feeding on your leaves. Once you find them, look at the underside of the leaves, and you will most likely find the hornworm.
    • Look for missing leaves on stems and wilted leaves hanging down; you can also find white cocoons.

    Read more about When Is Cilantro Ready To Harvest?

    Tomato Hornworm Killer Life cycle

    Tomato hornworms have the following life cycle:

    • In late spring, the large adult lay eggs on the lower side of foliage that hatches within a week. You will easily recognize these adults during this season more than others.
    • Caterpillar larvae hatch in late spring and feed for 4–6 weeks before creating a cocoon. They overwinter in their pupal state in the soil, but if the weather is warm enough, the larvae may only burrow for only 2 to 3 weeks.
    • These worms will start emerging in the spring and begin laying eggs once again as adults.

    The Difference Between Tomato & Tobacco Hornworm

    There are two hornworms that attack tomatoes; they include

    • Tomato hornworm, (Manduca quinquemaculata)
    • The tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta)

    These two worms look almost similar. They are huge and cause the same kind of destruction to plants in the nightshade family. The only way to tell apart with a first sight is by their horn.

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    Where Do Tomato Hornworms Go During The Day?

    Hornworms are not visible during the day, but they hide among your plant’s foliage. They are green in color, which is the color of the foliage, making them blend in well. If you can’t find them, try looking for droppings and follow that trail.

    You can also find them during the night with much ease because they light up during the night. Young ones will enjoy the adventure of catching these worms that glow in the dark.

    Homemade Tomato Hornworm Killer

    Getting rid of these tomato hornworm killers is easy if you follow these homemade remedies.

    • Soapy Water Spray. Mix up a solution of soapy water spray, adding a bit of cayenne pepper to make it hot, causing those caterpillars to die.
    • Garlic and Hot Pepper. Garlic has a strong smell and pepper a spicy taste. Both make a strong natural deterrent to horned tomato worms. Blend 3 full garlic bulbs, together with 6 large fresh hot chili peppers. You can substitute fresh peppers with 2 tablespoons of chili powder. Add in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and at least 2 to 3 squirts of liquid detergent plus 7 cups of water. Once blended, sieve or strain the mixture and pour it into a spray bottle. Allow the mixture to sit for a couple of days to produce a more pungent smell.
    • Fish Fertilizer. Fish fertilizer works in two ways – nourishes the plants and repels pests like the tomato hornworm. You can make your own fish fertilizer spray by blending fish bones and fish scales with water to create a soupy liquid that smells extensively of fish. Strain this mixture and transfer the liquid you obtain to a spray bottle.
    Homemade Tomato Hornworm Killer

    What Kills Hornworms On Tomato Plants?

    Here are two solutions that kill these pests on tomato plants.

    • bT Spray for Hornworms. As soon as you notice the presence of the hornworms, spray them with this solution. bT is a good bet for killing these destructive worms. Spray the leaves and soil to help kill the hornworms. BT is a bacteria that easily infects and kills caterpillars and is approved for organic gardening. You can also use it for cabbages when they get cabbage worms. Bt spray handles caterpillar issues quickly and is nontoxic to mammals and bees. However, Bt kills all caterpillars, which is a downside of this solution.
    • Use Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth. Use the food-grade version to kill the hornworms. Food grade diatomaceous earth is helpful to many pests and nontoxic to work within dry conditions. To use it, sprinkle the DE around the plant; when the hornworms walk through it, it enters their body and dries them up progressively.

    How Do You Keep Tomato Hornworms Away?

    Keeping these pests away in the future is as easy as attracting beneficial insects to your garden. These beneficial insects include

    • Ladybugs
    • Parasitic wasps
    • Green lace wigs

    Plant a bed of flowers or herbs that attracts beneficial insects to your garden.

     

    FAQs

    What do you spray on tomato hornworms?

    You might be tempted to reach for the nearest insecticide, but according to entomologists, you’d be wasting your time. The most effective way to get rid of tomato hornworms is to remove them from the plants, rather than killing them off. Here’s how to do it. Tomato hornworm (Manduca quinquemaculata) eggs When we think about insect pests, we tend to think about the big ones:

    Hornworms are one of the most common tomato pests in the U.S. They eat leaves, flowers, and fruit of many plants and vegetables, but their damage to tomato plants is particularly bad. In fact, some gardeners have reported seeing entire tomato plants go down from a single attack by these pests.

    Where do they come from?

    Hornworms are native to North America, where they can be found in the southern U.S. and northern Mexico. Hornworms lay their eggs on the underside of leaves. The eggs look like white dots, and they hatch into tiny caterpillars, which usually feed on just one leaf before moving to a new one.

    How do you get rid of tomato hornworms?

    There are two main ways to get rid of tomato hornworm larvae:

    by removing the insects from the plants or by spraying insecticides on the plants. Removing the bugs From the outset, it’s important to note that removing hornworms from the plants is an effective way to control them, not an easy one. In fact, removing hornworms is the most difficult method of controlling tomato hornworms, so there’s a good chance that you’ll be dealing with this problem for weeks or even months after the first hornworm appears. If you want to get rid of hornworms right away, then it’s probably best to spray them. But if you want to get rid of them quickly and effectively, you’ll need to remove them from the plants. To do this, simply lift up the bottom edge of the plant and gently shake it back and forth. The caterpillars will fall off the plant, and you can leave them in a bucket of soapy water for a few hours to drown. You’ll also have to pick up any other caterpillars that are still on the plant, but this is a relatively easy job.

    How do I keep hornworms off my tomato plants?

    The best way to keep hornworms off your tomato plants is by applying the insecticide spinosad in a controlled manner. This will not only keep the hornworms off your tomatoes, but it will also prevent any further damage to your crop from these pesky little pests. The best time to apply this insecticide is during the late afternoon or early evening before your tomato plants go to bed for the night.

    What causes tomato hornworms?

    The answer to this question is actually very simple. They are the larvae of a small moth, called a tortrix, which lays its eggs on the leaves of your tomatoes and then feeds on them. If you notice small black spots on your tomato leaves, it’s likely that you have hornworms, and if you look carefully, you’ll find that they are feeding on the leaves.

    Finally

    Keep in mind that tomato hornworm killer also destroys other garden vegetables. Always monitor your peppers, potatoes, and eggplants to ensure they are not destroyed by this pest.

    The sooner that you catch these worms and get rid of them, the higher the chance of your plants thriving.

    We have discussed plenty of ways to eliminate these pests and prevent them. The homemade ones are easy to make and affordable for every gardener to implement. The nontoxicity factor wins hands down every day!

  • When Is Cilantro Ready To Harvest?

    When Is Cilantro Ready To Harvest?

    When is cilantro ready for harvest, and what signs should you look out for to know it’s time to harvest this herb?

    Cilantro herb leaf and coriander seeds grow on the same plant, also known as Chinese parsley.

    It is a warm-weather annual plant popularly used in many cultures and cuisines throughout the world, especially in Indian, Asian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean, and many more.

    Cilantro is easy to grow without requiring any special care or attention.

    When Is Cilantro Ready To Harvest?

    It is possible to harvest your cilantro 4 weeks after starting your seeds. Your cilantro plants will be at least 6 inches tall by this time and ready for pinching off the outer larger leaves or cutting them with a pair of scissors.  If you choose to cut them, use a pair of scissors or your hands to snip the stem about an inch off the soil‘s surface.

    Depending on how much cilantro you need for your cooking, pinch a few leaves individually or harvest them in larger quantities.  Harvest about ¼ to 1/3 of the leaves to allow new growth and development for continuous production!

    Cilantro Ready To Harvest

    This is important if you are growing only a few cilantro plants, and you need to make sure they grow back new leaves for a few more harvests.

    It takes around 120 days or 4 months from starting the seeds for the cilantro plant to begin flowering and set seed.

    In this period, you can get several harvests extending throughout the spring and into the early days of summer before it gets too hot. The heat causes the plant to bolt.

    Will Cilantro Grow Back After Cutting?

    Cilantro grows back when you harvest it, but it does not grow back after cutting at the end of the growing season.

    This annual herb reseeds itself well if you allow your plants to flower and go to seed.

    In mild climates, the cilantro plant can give you 2 to 3 cycles of cilantro harvesting in one season.

    How do you trim cilantro, so it keeps growing? You have two ways to do this.

    Harvesting

    Harvest your cilantro from the 4th week by pinching at least ¼ to 1/3 of the leaves.  You will allow new growth and development for continuous production!  If you are growing only a few plants, this method is best to keep your cilantro supply coming.

    This method is known as the cut and come again method.  It allows for multiple harvests, provided you don’t harvest too much off the plant, which may kill it.

    Before the plant goes into flowering and seeding in about 120 days, you can harvest several times.  You can get multiple harvests that extend throughout the spring and into the early summer before it gets too hot and the plant bolts.

    Reseeding

    If you allow your cilantro plant to flower and seed during its growing season, the seeds will fall off and start new seeds that will grow into fresh herbs if provided with the right growing conditions.

    Should You Let Cilantro Flower After It’s Ready To Harvest?

    Cilantro has a concise life cycle.  It flowers in the summer after a few harvests.  Once it blooms, it’s on its way to seeding and then ends the growing process.

    When cilantro starts to flower, the leaves and stems become a little tough though most people still use them in their cooking.

    It is fine to allow a few cilantro plants to flower to give pollinators a place in your garden.  The flowers will produce cilantro seeds that can be used as a potent spice in the kitchen or be planted in the coming season.

    Harvesting Coriander Seeds From Cilantro

    Harvesting coriander seeds is easy and provides you with a good quality of seeds to use in your cuisines.  To harvest coriander seeds, allow your cilantro plant to flower and produce green fruit, which is the seeds.  Allow the seeds to turn brown and mature before harvesting them.

    As the plant turns brown, cut off the seed heads and place them in a brown envelope bag. As they dry, they will fall off into the paper bag.

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    Pack the ready coriander seeds in your pantry away from direct sunlight.  Use them in curries, pickles, relishes, or to start your next season’s cilantro plants!

    Why Is My Cilantro Plant Falling Over?

    The cilantro plant falls over primarily due to

    • Underwatering.  Lack of water causes your cilantro plants to wilt and fall over.  The stem loses rigidity and strength in stem cells due to a lack of moisture.  Under-watering causes your plants to bolt when they are still young messing up the flavor.
    • Overwatering.  Too much water causes problems with cilantro plants by removing the air pockets from the soil.  The plants cannot breathe without air pockets that carry water to the stem and leaves. Too much water in the roots leads to root rot.  You will notice plants falling over and wilting if you overwater them.
    • Exposure to Extreme Temperatures. Too much sunlight causes the cilantro to fall over and wilt.  Though this plant needs about 6 hours of sunlight, too much sun causes it to wilt.  Ensure your plant gets some shade during the hot summer; otherwise, it will bolt early or fall over.
    • Nutrient Deficient or Grown in Poor Soils.  Lack of nutrients mostly leads to plants falling off and eventually death.  Feed your cilantro with low nitrogen fertilizer or organic fertilizer for proper growth.
    • Diseases and Pests.  Cilantro is susceptible to bacterial diseases and pests that cause the plants to fall over.  Diseases like powdery mildew and damping off seriously affect these plants. Use natural pest controls to protect your plants from pests like aphids, cutworms, or leafhoppers, infestation.
    Why Is My Cilantro Plant Falling Over

    How Tall Should Cilantro Be Before Harvesting?

    In about 4 weeks after planting, cilantro will be at least 6 inches tall.  Not all the plants are the same to have different heights.

    When harvesting, start by identifying the largest outer leaves and harvest those as you wait for the younger ones to grow larger.

    FAQs

    How do I know when to harvest cilantro?

    Harvesting cilantro at the right time can help ensure your harvest has the best flavor and texture.

    Here are some tips for harvesting cilantro:

    1. Pick the leaves off the stem. The stems of cilantro are thin and hollow and will break easily if picked too early. Cilantro has a strong smell when it’s fresh. You can use this to your advantage by picking cilantro leaves while it’s still growing and before the smell has fully developed.

    2. Pick the cilantro leaves off the stem with your fingers. If you’re not sure how to pick cilantro leaves off the stem, here are some tips to help: Gently pull the leaf off the stem, then twist the stem toward you and remove the leaf from the stem. Use your fingers to gently pull the leaf off the stem. If you’re picking cilantro from a bunch, use the back of your hand to rub the leaves against each other, separating them from the stem.

    3. You want to wait until it’s a bit past the time it would start to wilt and go limp. It will last in the fridge for about a week if picked at this point. If you’ve got a bunch and don’t know what to do with it, you can leave it on the counter and give it a good sniff to see when it smells like it’s ready.

    Where does it grow naturally?

    Cilantro (also known as coriander) is an annual herb that grows in moist areas. It’s a member of the parsley family, and you can find it growing wild in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world.

    Will cilantro grow back after cutting?

    Cilantro is very forgiving. It can be pruned back severely and still come back with plenty of leaves. I usually just take the main stem off at a point just below the flower head. You can leave the lower branches if they look healthy and green. The only time I really worry about pruning back cilantro is when it’s flowering. The flowers can be quite large and if you don’t cut them back soon enough, they’ll drop their flower heads before you get a chance to harvest the whole plant.

    I have been growing cilantro for the past 2 years and it’s starting to look like a weed! I started from seed. I planted it in small pots in my garden. I fertilize it with fish emulsion and water it frequently. It grows really fast! I would say it takes 3-4 weeks to get big enough to harvest. I have cut it many times and have not had any problems with it dying or anything like that.

    Final Words

    Cilantro is an excellent plant for your outdoor and indoor garden.  When cilantro is ready to harvest, you will be ready to prepare those mouthwatering dishes using this flavorful herb.