🌱 Grower Today

Author: Brian

How to Propagate Bear Paw Succulent?
Bear paw succulent propagation is a process that requires patience and dedication. Here’s how to get your hands on some fresh new plants to give life back into your garden!
The “bear paw succulent leaves falling off” is a common problem for many people. There are a few things that you can do to help the plant grow back over time.
How do you propagate Bearpaw?
A: Bearpaw propagation is a process that involves the use of seedlings. Seedlings are small plants that are grown from seeds, which can be found in most nurseries and garden centers. The seedling is then planted into soil to grow roots and leaves.
How do you cut a cactus and replant?
A: To cut a cactus, you must first remove the spines. You can do this by using a knife or scissors. Once they are removed, you must dig out the core of the plant and then replant it in its new location.
The “where to buy bear paw succulent” is a plant that can propagate easily. They are also known as “succulent plants”.
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January 2, 2022
How to Keep River Rock IN Place on a Slope?
So you’re sitting on your front porch enjoying the view when a passing car throws up some dirt, leaves, and rocks. The rock piles are growing more steep each day; soon they’ll be knocking out your foundation! What’s a homeowner to do?
The “how to keep rocks in place on a slope” is a question that has been asked before. It’s important to know the proper way of keeping rocks in place on a slope.

The “how to keep landscape rocks from sliding” is a question that has been posed many times. There are several ways to prevent the rocks from slipping, but most of them involve anchoring the rocks into the ground.
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January 2, 2022
How To Make A Moss Bowl?
Moss bowls are native to the mossy areas of England but today they can be found worldwide. They’re easy to make and serve as a fun, plant-filled centerpiece for your home or garden.
A decorative moss bowl is a great way to keep your house green and beautiful. The process of making one can be tricky, but it’s worth the effort.
How do you make a mini moss terrarium?
A: To make a mini moss terrarium, you will need a small glass jar with a lid. You can also use an empty plastic bottle or vase if you do not have any jars lying around. Fill the jar about halfway with soil and place your plants in it. Add water to the jar and place it in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours.
How do you harvest moss for a terrarium?
A: You can find moss growing on trees, rocks, and other plants. To harvest moss for your terrarium, you should gently pull the moss off of the plant with your hands and place it in a container that is large enough to hold all of the moss.
The “large moss bowl centerpiece” is a great way to add some green to your home. You can make this project in an afternoon and it will look like you spent months on it!
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January 1, 2022
How To Bring Back A Dead Rose Bush?
The most common garden problem is dead plants that have been left to die. There are a few ways you can bring back these plants, but one thing you should never do is burn them!
The “how to revive a dying potted rose plant” is a process that can be difficult to complete. The article will provide instructions on how to bring back a dead rose bush.
Roses are such a beautiful flower. They can be used for many things, and one of them is to bring back the dead rose bush. Reference: rose bush dying from the bottom up.
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January 1, 2022
How Long Does It Take To Grow Squash?
It is important to know how long does it take to grow squash before planting so you can prepare for harvesting, storing, and using.
Squash is one of the typical food rich in vitamin A. This is why growing squash is not only good for your eyes but also your overall health. From tender growing zucchini to sweet and dense butternut squash, it is easy to grow and adds immense richness to meals replacing high carb with low nutrient foods.
In this guide, we will look at how long does it take squash to grow and everything else about growing it at home.
How Long Does It Take To Grow Squash?
Winter Squash takes about 80 to 100 days to grow. This type of squash is allowed to mature on the vine, and you can store it for several months. Its skin is thicker and tougher to pierce or cut through.
Summer Squash takes around 55 to 65 days to mature. Summer squash, mostly Cucurbita pepo, are harvested prematurely before their skin hardens. It is best to harvest them when you can pierce the skin easily with a fingernail. When you think of summer squash, think zucchini and yellow squash.
Squash requires enough time to grow before you can harvest it; you will need to apply plenty of water and fertilizer to yield a good crop.
What Type Of Squash Do You Want To Grow?
Having seen how long does squash take to grow, you can choose the best squash variety according to your personal taste. You will also need to know what varieties thrive in your USDA hardiness zones. Before planting, you will also need to know if you’re growing a summer or winter squash. Here are some of the most commonly grown squash varieties you can choose from.
Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is an all-round variety that has a delicious taste. It can be eaten immediately after harvesting or after a month of curing. It is best when consumed within two to three months. Its yellow to orange flesh grows inside a deep green skin with small orange spots. This plant sprawls less than other vining varieties but still requires at least 2 to 3 feet to thrive. Acorn squash is excellent when stuffed with grains or vegetables or cooked in butter and maple syrup.
Buttercup
Buttercup can last up to 5 months after harvesting. It has a sweet potato texture and a delicious flavour. Once harvested, it requires at least one month of curing to bring out its best flavour. Its vines like to travel around, requiring plenty of space when growing. Buttercup squash is excellent when eaten mashed, moistened with water or milk, roasted, or added to warm winter soups.
Delicata
This lovely winter squash has creamy yellow skin with dappled green stripes. It has a mild flavour and works great for stuffing, steaming, or roasting. It takes up less space when growing in the garden than many larger varieties. Be sure to check if you’re growing a vining or a bush type because this variety comes in both.
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Hubbard
Hubbard is a long-lasting squash variety that can last for 6 months? It is best eaten after one month of harvesting and curing. Hubbards are a beautiful addition to any garden producing fruits that range from pale blue-green to deep orange. Who bags come in various sizes, from a single serving baby variety to 40 pounds.
Spaghetti
The bright yellow spaghetti squash has grown its popularity over the last decade as a replacement for pasta. When this variety is baked, its flesh is easily shredded to look like spaghetti and tastes even better. This variety requires plenty of space to grow. It doesn’t last as long after harvesting, maybe about 2 to 3 months. However, if you can eat it right away, you will enjoy its delicious flavour.
Sugar Pumpkin
Sugar pumpkin variety is the best for making soups, pies and baking. Most people blame its size for being small, but its flavour is more prominent. It is best to harvest sugar pumpkin and eat it right away or keep it for 3 to 4 months to use in your Thanksgiving desserts.
Zucchini
Zucchini is a favourite to many gardeners, thanks to its high production and versatility in the kitchen. It needs a concentrated area of about 4 to 5 feet to thrive and requires enough spacing between 2 plants. 1 or 2 plants are enough since they produce all summer long. Zucchini can be enjoyed in curries, stir-frys, salads, or pasta dishes. It can also be grated into bread and cakes. Try out some of its colourful variety, like yellow zucchini, to spice up your garden.
Planting And Growing
Now that we know how long does it take for squash to grow, we can learn how to plant it.
When Is The Best Time To Plant Squash?
Squash has different seasons that favour them; both summer and winter squash are warm-weather plants. Before planting, wait until the soil temperature warms up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit before you can sew your seeds. This ensures that your seeds do not rot before they sprout.
You can also sow your seeds at least 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost date in a heated greenhouse. The same goes when transplanting seedlings. Don’t set them out until the weather has warmed up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Always check with your local extension agent for weather information in your region.
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How Much Space Does Your Squash Need?
In general, squash plants require enough room to spread out. But the exact space depends on the precise variety or growing, whether it’s vining or bush. Consider the following recommendations for each variety.
For Bush varieties, space them at least 4 to 6 ft apart in rows and 15 to 20 inches a pot for plants.
For vining varieties, space them at least 6 to 12 feet apart for rows and 15 to 20 inches apart for plants. These are a favourite for many gardeners who also plant them in hills. Space your hills at least 6 to 8 ft apart.
FAQs
What month do you plant squash?
Squash are a warm season crop, and should be planted about 3 weeks after the last frost date in your area. For the most part you want to plant them as soon as the soil can be worked, usually around mid March.
However, if you live in an area with short growing season, it’s best to wait until closer to the end of April or early May. When you start planting, choose a sunny spot that has good drainage and is well-fertilized. Make sure to give the plants plenty of room to grow. You can plant in blocks, or just plant seeds directly into the garden bed. They will need to be watered regularly until they germinate. When the seeds germinate, you can either start them in seed flats or plant them directly into the garden bed.
How long does squash take to fully grow?
Squash are a summer squash, not a winter squash. If you want to harvest it in the fall, it will take about 50-60 days from planting time until harvest. Squash don’t really require a ton of work, you just have to make sure that you water them regularly and keep the weeds away so that they get enough sunlight.
Squash plants can be grown from seed or from transplants. They are not very fussy about soil conditions, but do require plenty of sunlight, moisture, and good air circulation. Squash is an annual vegetable that needs to be started indoors in early spring. You can plant the seeds directly into the ground when temperatures begin to warm up.
How often do you water squash?
Squash plants like to have a good amount of moisture but not too much. Too much water can cause the leaves to look puckered and wrinkled, which is called “water burn.” If you live in a warm climate, you may find yourself watering your squash plant every other day.
But in cooler climates, I recommend watering your squash plant once a week. It might take longer for your squash plant to produce fruit, but it will grow more evenly and it will keep producing fruit all summer long!
What can deter squash from growing?
Squash bugs. Squash bugs are a common pest of squash. They love to hide out in the foliage of squash plants, where they feast on the plant’s leaves.
When they’re done feasting, they crawl off to find more leafy things to eat. When squash bugs are around, they can do a lot of damage. The damage they do can range from making your plants look unhealthy to killing the squash plants entirely. And the damage they do doesn’t stop there: they also carry disease. In fact, squash bugs have been known to spread diseases like powdery mildew and cucumber mosaic virus. So what should you do about squash bugs? Well, first, you can try to eliminate them before they cause any damage. Second, if you’re really concerned about squash bugs, you can spray your plants with a pesticide. Finally, you can get some natural methods of squash bug control that don’t involve pesticides.
What type of soil do you use for your squash?
You want to avoid using peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite in your potting mix because they’re porous and allow water to drain out. You can use a composted soil instead, but make sure to add some peat moss or vermiculite to help retain the moisture. And if you plan to grow your squash in a container, choose a soil that has been mixed with a few inches of sand.
Final Thoughts
When you are just starting out on growing squash, you will require some basic information like how long it takes to grow squash to know how to plan your garden. Basic knowledge in gardening will always lead to massive success.
December 31, 2021
Other Names For Zucchini From All Over The World
Are there other names for zucchini that are popular and used when shopping for these vegetables across the world?
Zucchini is a super affordable vegetable that is a common ingredient in a wide variety of dishes, including savory dishes and desserts.
Unlike other kinds of vegetables, zucchini has no distinct flavor. Actually, it hardly has any taste except for super fresh ones that tend to be a little sweet. They tend to take whatever you cook them with flavors, which is why chefs and home cooks prefer making zucchini alongside other tasty foods.
The best zucchini to buy in your next grocery shopping is one that is slightly firm on the outside but soft on the inside.
The History Of Zucchini And Their Names
Zucchinis history originates from Central and South America who have indulged in it for over 7,000 years. It is believed that Italian immigrants brought it when they moved to the United States and cultivated it in abundance in California. Christopher Columbus, a renowned Italian explorer, also contributed to its growth by bringing zucchini seeds to Europe and other Mediterranean regions in his expeditions.
However, the kind of zucchini we eat today originated from Northern Italy in the 19th century. This enticing green vegetable is commonly used in modern dishes.
Other Names For Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash – this means it is harvested while immature, with its rind still tender and edible. Its color is dark green, light green, orange or deep yellow. Botanically zucchini is a fruit but it is treated as a vegetable in the culinary context. It is harvested when it’s about 25 cm long and prepared into savory meals.
Zucchini has several names attached to it. It is formally called the green Italian squash or courgette.
Another name for zucchini is courgette, the common term among the French and British English-speaking people. Zucchini is the common term used in American English-speaking countries.
Types Of Zucchini
Did you know that zucchini has several types? Let’s look at some of the major types of zucchini you can grow.
Black Beauty
Black beauty zucchini is one of the most popular varieties available in the market. This variety is known for its dark green, almost black color, and creamy white flesh on the inside. It is easy to grow and commonly used in soups, salads, gravies, etc.
It can quickly grow up to 12 to 24 inches and produces a lot of fruits. You can harvest the Black beauty within 50 days since sowing the seeds and enjoy it the best way you can.
Dunja Zucchini
Dunja zucchini is a variety that is widely sought after. It is straight with dark green and glossy skin. It is highly preferred by gardeners as it grows fast and can be harvested at around 50 days.
Gourmet Gold
Gourmet gold is a yellow zucchini that makes your dishes pop. Instead of growing the conventional green-colored zucchini, go for these sunny bright ones and win everyone’s heart.
This summertime variety has a typical old flavor associated with zucchini. It is set apart from other types by its look and color.
Most home cooks prefer to use gourmet gold while making zucchini frittata. This is because the yellow part of the vegetable mixes well with the frittata making it a unique squash. You can also throw in the yellow zucchini and green ones to create a contrast of color yet harmony in the dish.
Cocozella
Cocozella is similar to a cucumber in its shape size and color. You can distinguish it by its dark green streaks. Compared to other types of zucchini, cocozella is less watery and has delicious flavors.
When growing this type you need to be very careful not to have aced it too late as it will be too dry to release its amazing taste.
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Round Zucchini
Round zucchini has a unique round shape but has the same flavor as the thin or long types of zucchini. If you are in the mood to make stuffed, baked, or roasted zucchini, always go for the round zucchini. The round zucchini is easy to cut with a knife and stuff it with appetizing filling.
Crookneck Squash
This variety is also referred to as yellow squash and is distinctive in its shape. It has a prominent curvy neck that narrows out at the top. This zucchini is mild in flavor and has bright yellow or pale green color combinations.
It is often confused with a similar-looking variety of zucchini the straight neck squash that happens to also be yellow in color. Unlike other zucchinis, this bright yellow squash needs to be harvested before it matures. Harvest them when they are less than 2 inches in diameter so that the skin doesn’t toughen up and become too mature to be eaten.
Gadzukes
This variety is a dark green Italian courgette that has a sweet and crisp flavor. Gadzukes is easy to grow and mature pretty fast. Its harvesting period ranges from 50 to 55 Days. You can use this zucchini in different kinds of dishes like a casserole, pasta, patties, salad, rolls, etc.
Pattypan Squash
Pattypan squash does not only come in striking yellow color. You can find this in cream, light green, light, or dark green hues. These adorable looking zucchinis vary in size from small to medium or large size.
Just like the round zucchini, the pattypan squash can also be stuffed grilled or roasted. Some of the best recipes you can try with Pattypan squash stuffed casserole roasted with garlic and herbs and Pattypan carpaccio.
Conclusion
Having looked at other names for zucchini, we now know that whether you refer to it as courgette or zucchini, it is the same thing.
Zucchinis are common in many home gardens, supermarkets, and grocery stores around the country. Growing them is easy and making some shells dishes is even easier.
There is no reason whatsoever for not growing your own. They will feed your family and share them with friends and neighbors due to their plenty crop. There is always a recipe to make with this vegetable.
Find more information about Does Zucchini Grow On A Vine?
December 31, 2021
What Is Eating My Broccoli Leaves?
Would you advise what is eating my broccoli leaves as I have noticed big holes on the leaves but cannot see what insect is eating them?
Broccoli is one of the most beautiful plants to grow. Every gardener experiences a good feeling when you head out to your garden in the morning and see big broccoli heads growing. It gets even better when these heads are ready for harvest, and you finally get to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
However, one thing can make you lose all this beauty. You might notice holes in broccoli leaves that are caused by an insect. But what kind of insect? Don’t worry about it; we will talk about the list of insects and how you can protect your broccoli from these devastating pests.
So What Is Eating My Broccoli Leaves?
If you notice something is eating your broccoli leaves or heads, please note that you have an insect problem.
Cabbage moths are one of the most common broccoli pests that make big holes in the leaves. There are also other insects like flea beetles, diamondback moths, etc., that feast on your broccoli leaves.
Common Pests Eating Your Broccoli Leaves
There are a few pests that love to munch on your broccoli leaves that we will look at. Not only do they eat broccoli leaves that they also eat other crops like cabbage, Brussel sprouts, etc. These veggies are best grown in raised beds or gardens, making them highly susceptible to certain pests.
The most common pests that love to eat your broccoli leaves include:
Flea Beetles
Flea beetles look like a cross between a flea and a small black beetle. Flea beetles are easy to identify because they leave behind many small holes on the broccoli leaves that look like they were caused by buckshot. They also jump like fleas making the traditional pick and squish method highly effective in destroying them.
You cannot control flea beetles. However, if left unchecked, they infest in large numbers on a young plant and can cause premature death of your plant. Severe damage from these beatles causes your plants to get stunted growth and cannot flower or fruit.
Prevention Methods
- - Clean your Garden after a Crop. Flea beetles can overwinter in the ground in the rotting plant debris. It is essential to clean your garden well when the growing season is over.
  - Use Sterilized Soil. Plant your seeds or seedlings in sterilized soil for extra protection when growing your broccoli.
  - Use Floating Row Covers. Try using floating row covers as a barrier to protect your young broccoli plants because they are more vulnerable.
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- - Use Trap Crops. Trap crops act as a sacrificial offering that flea beetles eat, preventing your actual crop from damage. To protect your broccoli leaves, you can use other plants like marigolds.
  - Use a Thick Mulch. Covering the ground with thick mulch prevents the flea beetles from reaching the surface.
  - Use Organic Insecticides. You can use neem oil or diatomaceous to prevent infestations. Other insecticides will also work but will need frequent reapplication.
Learn more about A Guide On Planting Carrots In The Fall
Cabbage Moths
Cabbage moths are a significant enemy of the broccoli plant. Have you seen giant white moths flying around the leaves of your broccoli? Maybe you love them because they look pretty, thinking they are some beneficial pollinators. In an actual sense, these are not moths, neither are they beneficial pollinators. They are butterflies fluttering around your broccoli and laying legs underneath the leaves, about 300 to 400 eggs, to be exact.
These eggs are tiny but will eventually hatch into green caterpillars that grow big and fat, courtesy of your nutritious broccoli leaves. These caterpillars feed ravenously on your broccoli plant’s inner and outer leaves, the actual florets, and broccoli head.
Preventing Cabbage Moths
- - Use the Traditional Method of Hand-picking. The gruesome pick and squish technique is the conventional way of dealing with this insect infestation. Hand-pick all the caterpillars you can see and squish them or throw them in a bucket full of soapy water. This method is helpful if you only have a few plants.
- - Use an nsecticide. If you have a large garden, it will be better to use an insecticide. Choose an effective and organic insecticide that has naturally occurring bacteria effectively killing cabbage moth caterpillars.
  - Use Row Covers. If you don’t want to spend time squishing bugs or spraying insecticides, try using row covers. This method requires covering your rows, preventing them from moths flying over them and laying eggs. It requires the least effort and still works to keep off the caterpillars.
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Diamondback Moths
Freshly hatched diamondback moth larvae eat your broccoli leaf in both upper and lower parts. When the lover matures, it leaves large red holes with irregular edges on the lower sides of the leaf.
When young, the larvae can be green and turn brown once they mature. When disturbed, the mature larvae drop from the leaf on a silken line like a spider’s web.
Prevention
- - Apply organic insecticide. Use organic insecticide early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun’s UV rays breaking down the bacteria.
  - Use parasitic stingless wasps. These will use the diamondback moth larva as a host; as a result, killing them. It’s a great way to prevent infestation without the use of an insecticide.
FAQs
How do I keep bugs off my broccoli?
If you are able to get your hands on a commercial product called “Stinger,” which is a mixture of several insecticides and fungicides, it will most likely kill the insects.
In our area, we use a combination of neem oil and “Stinger” spray to keep the black flies from infesting our broccoli. We also put out water-filled milk jugs around the garden, which attract the adult black flies. We usually put one in each corner of the garden and they also help to control the number of aphids on the broccoli plants.
How do you protect broccoli?
When it comes to protecting your broccoli, there are two main types of protection: physical and biological. These two types of protection are used to control a wide variety of pests and diseases. Physical protection involves things like sprays, netting, and traps. Biological control involves using natural predators and parasites to control pest populations. So, the best way to protect your broccoli is to use both types of protection. The main problem with broccoli is that it’s a biennial plant. This means it has to flower and set seed before it can produce more broccoli. In other words, broccoli has to go through two growing seasons before it produces broccoli.
Broccoli is very susceptible to cold weather. I would recommend that you try and protect it by tying it up in a large, clean garbage bag.
What do you spray on broccoli plants?
Broccoli is very sensitive to insects. The best way to keep it bug free is to cover the plants with a floating row cover as soon as they are planted. Once they are about 6 inches tall, pull off the cover and plant in a permanent location. You can also use neem oil (also known as “oil of lemon” or “oil of citronella”) as a general pest deterrent.
What is eating my broccoli heads?
The broccoli can be eaten by birds. Birds will eat the stems of plants to help them get their own food. They will also eat the flowers of plants. If the broccoli heads are growing in a vegetable garden where there is competition for nutrients from other plants, you may be seeing what looks like the birds have been eating your broccoli. You may want to look for a bird feeder that is specifically made for the area you live in, so that you can prevent your bird problems from getting worse. Broccoli is also susceptible to pests and diseases. It can be attacked by aphids, which are tiny insects that suck the juice out of the plant’s leaves.
They are often found on the underside of the leaves. They can cause damage to broccoli leaves, stems and buds, and they can make the plants appear sick. There is a natural pesticide that can be sprayed on broccoli plants that is safe for the environment, but you would need to apply it yourself. You can also use insecticidal soap. Broccoli is susceptible to fungal diseases as well, such as downy mildew. Downy mildew starts as a white or grey mold, and it will spread quickly through the leaves. You can treat the problem with fungicides, but you need to be careful not to kill your plants, as they are good for you. The best thing you can do is take care of your plants by watering them, making sure that they get enough light, and keeping the soil around them free of weeds and other competing plants.
Conclusion
I could tell something was eating my broccoli leaves, and with the above information, I now know what is eating them and how to protect my plants.
If you are growing broccoli, make it a habit to keep an eye on their leaves early to get rid of these pests immediately they strike quickly. The earlier you notice them, the easier it becomes to eliminate them before they destroy most of your crop.
Broccoli carries a ton of nutritional benefits with plenty of fiber, plus potassium and even some protein. It is an excellent source of Vitamin K and Calcium, two vital nutrients for maintaining strong, healthy bones. It also contains a good amount of phosphorus, zinc, and Vitamins A and C necessary for healthy bones as well.
Learn more about When To Harvest Broccoli Rabe
December 30, 2021
How To Grow Butternut Squash In A Container
Butternut squash is one of the most popular varieties of squash. Typically, it is grown in gardens as it is rather large in size. However, with the right steps, you can grow butternut squash in a container.
With the use of bush cultivators, butternut squash can be planted in raised garden beds or large containers. Though it does take some work, it can be a great option if you are limited in the space you have to grow plants.
About Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a variety of winter squash that is grown on vines. It has an oblong shape with hard skin that, unlike summer squash, is not edible. Its skin is tan-yellow to light orange in color, with bright orange flesh.
When it is ripe, butternut squash turns increasingly deep orange, in addition to becoming sweeter and richer. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, magnesium, and potassium. Though botanically it is a fruit, culinarily it is a vegetable.
Butternut squash has many uses in the culinary world. It is popular to use for soups, casseroles, bread, pies, and muffins. In addition, it is also great for roasting, stuffing, sauteing, and grilling.
Due to its hardy skin, butternut squash will last for about two to three months after harvesting. It is best to store winter squash of all varieties in a cool, dry environment. It has a sweet taste that is slightly nutty as well.
Check Out If Can You Grow Squash In A Pot?
How To Grow Butternut Squash In Small Space
Generally, butternut squash is not grown in containers, as it tends to require a lot of space. However, with the right steps, you can successfully grow it in small spaces, such as pots and raised garden beds. This is particularly ideal for those who have small yards or live in an apartment.
Growing In Large Containers
Butternut squash can be grown in large containers, but they should be at least 24 inches in diameter and at least 12 inches deep. In some cases, they may even outgrow a container of this size.
When choosing a container, you will want one that has good drainage. Oftentimes, you will want to drill large holes in the bottom of the pot to ensure it will have a proper drainage system. It is often a good idea to cover the bottom of the pot with a few inches of small gravel and then cover it with mesh.
You should use soil that is well-drained and rich. Ideally, it should be sandy loamy soil which is slightly acidic, anywhere from 5.8 to 6.5 Ph. To help make your soil richer, you can add compost, organic mulch, and coffee grounds.
Check the soil around two to three times a week and water when the soil is dry a couple of inches down. On average, it will need around two to three inches of water a week. Be sure that your butternut squash is getting at least six to seven hours of sunlight a day.
Read more about Growing With Household LED Bulbs
Best Varieties Of Butternut Squash To Grow in Pots
When trying to decide what all to grow in your small garden, look for smaller bush varieties. Bush varieties are not only more compact, but they also produce more fruit in a shorter amount of time when compared to vining varieties. These are the butternut squash varieties you want to look out for when planting in a pot.
Burpee’s Butterbush
Burpee’s Butterbush squash grows vines that are around three to four feet long and produces fruit that is about 1.5 pounds in weight. They have pale, creamy-colored skin and flesh that is sweet, rich, and coppery red in color.
Each Butterbush plant will produce around three to six fruits. They are known to be a particularly tasty variety of butternut squash. It is great for making pie, as well as roasting, grilling, and sauteing.
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Ponca
The Ponca variety of butternut squash produces a personal-sized fruit. They are only around six to eight inches in length with beige-colored skin and light orange flesh. They have a small seed cavity, which is ideal for using as much flesh as possible.
Ponca has a pronounced sweet nutty flavor. It is particularly great for roasting and making soups too.
Learn more about What Size Net Pots To Use
Butternut Squash Growing Stages
Most butternut squashes take around one to seven days to germinate. After that, it takes around 90-110 days for bush varieties of butternut squash to reach maturity.
You can plant your seeds direct into the large pot or plant them in a small pot and then transplant them. They will be ready to transplant when they are around two to three inches tall. When you go to transplant them, be sure to dig a hole that is at least two to three inches deep in your large container.
Wait to plant your butternut squash until the soil is at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You can plant them in spring or early summer, being sure to do your best to wait till after the final frost.
FAQ’s
How much room does butternut squash need to grow?
It needs a lot of room. If you look at the root structure, you’ll see that it’s a huge mass of tangled roots and stems with only one or two leaves. They are very deep rooted, so they have to be well-watered to survive. The soil should be loose and sandy, so the roots can spread out. You want lots of air space between the plants for the roots to spread out.
You can plant them in large containers, but they won’t grow as big. If you have a large garden or container, you can plant them in pairs and they will grow very quickly. They will also spread out more than in a pot, so they can fill in a larger area.
Can squash plants be grown in containers?
In general, I’d say it’s certainly possible. I’ve grown several Squashes successfully in a large plastic trash can for years, and they do fine. I have also had success with small containers as well. When you’re ready to plant, use potting soil. Add some compost if you have it. And then plant the Squash seeds into the pot.
Water them well, and keep them moist but not wet. Once they start sprouting, give them a little bit of light. As long as you water well and keep the soil moist, it’s possible.
Do butternut squash need a trellis?
It depends on how big the squash are. If they are quite small and not very heavy, you can plant them in the ground. In this case, they won’t need any support. But if they are large, they may need to be supported so that they don’t grow too big and fall over. You can grow this vegetable in a container, and the trellis you can use to support your plants is any old length of string or twine.
If you want to make your own trellis, just pick up a few 2x4s and attach them together with wire. You can also do the same thing with some stakes and twine. The key is to make sure they are wide enough to allow the vines to get their full length, but not so wide that they won’t be able to bend around the stakes. You’ll have to decide how high you want it to grow. I’ve seen people who have plants up to 6′ tall. It’s a great way to use your yard. Just don’t let it outgrow your trellis.
Are butternut squash easy to grow?
They are easy to grow from seeds. Butternut squash are a member of the gourd family. They have large seeds, and can be stored for quite a while after being harvested. Butternut squash are native to North America. They are a heavy feeder, meaning they require more fertilizer than other crops. They also need more space to grow.
Knowing How To Grow Butternut Squash In A Container
Whether you live in an apartment or simply just have a small yard, you can grow butternut squash in containers. It produces a delicious fruit that goes well in many different dishes.
Be certain that your container is at least 24 inches in diameter and at least 12 inches deep. In some cases, you may need to get a big container for your squash plant. You also want to make sure the pot has good drainage, the soil is rich and well-drained as well, along with the squash getting at least six hours of sunlight.
When growing a butternut squash in a pot, you want to stick with bush varieties. Bush varieties are not only more compact, but they are also able to produce more fruit in a shorter amount of time. Some of the best bush varieties to plant in a container include Burpee’s Butterbush and Ponca.
Do you have any questions regarding how to grow butternut squash in a container? If so, please ask any questions regarding how to grow butternut squash in containers and the best varieties to do so in the comment section below.
December 29, 2021
Can You Grow Squash In A Pot?
There are several great varieties of squash you can grow in your home garden. They are great plants to grow for gardeners of any experience level, whether you decide to grow butternut squash or zucchini. However, if you don’t have a lot of space, you may wonder, can you grow squash in a pot?
Typically, most varieties of squash take up a lot of room in the garden. They often grow in abundance, which is normally great but can be problematic if you are tight on space. Fortunately, with the right tools and care, you can grow certain varieties of squash in a pot.
Varieties Of Squash You Can Grow In A Pot
If you have a small garden or live in an apartment, you simply don’t have the room to grow certain types of squash. Fortunately, there are some delicious varieties that are great for growing in pots. With the right size pot and proper care, these squash can thrive in a pot.
Growing squash in a pot gives you the opportunity to make the most of your space. With the right steps, you can get a bountiful harvest that will be delicious. Here are some of the best squash varieties for growing in a pot, whether you live in an apartment with a balcony or a house with a small yard.
Bush Acorn
Bush acorn squash is a variety of winter squash that grows to be 36 inches per diameter. It produces around three to eight fruits per plant. The fruits are acorn-shaped and are deeply ribbed.
They are dark green in color with flesh that is orange. The flesh of the Bush Acorn is delicious for stuffing and roasting.
Black Magic Zucchini
Black Magic Zucchini is a summer squash that grows to be one to two feet tall and three to three and a half feet wide. It has semi-spineless vines and the fruit grows between six to eight inches long. It is famous for producing high yields of fruit, but it does not take up a lot of space.
The zucchini is dark green in color with a glossy appearance and a small seed cavity. The flesh is white and creamy, perfect for sauteing, baking, grilling, roasting, and making noodles.
Bush Crookneck
Crookneck squash is a type of summer squash with a unique long shape with a slightly bent neck. It is light yellow in color and can grow up to three feet wide and two feet tall. It is fast-growing and tends to produce an abundance of fruit.
Crookneck squash has creamy flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. It is great for sauteing, roasting, and stir-frying.
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Sunburst Scallop Summer Squash
Sunburst Scallop Summer Squash is a unique type of summer squash. It has a scallop-like shape and is bright yellow in color. The plant of the Sunburst Scallop has a compact, open habit bush.
The squash has a crunchy texture and buttery flavor, which makes them great for stuffing, roasting, and grilling. The fruit is small in size when harvested, only around three inches, but the flesh is white and tender. They are similar to Patty-Pan squash.
Astia Container Zucchini
Astia Container Zucchini is a French-bred bush squash developed particularly to be grown in pots. A type of summer squash, they have beautiful silvery-green leaves that are deeply indented. They produce an abundance of tender-flesh zucchini while needing only a small area to grow.
Astia Container Zucchini grows to be around five inches long and has a glossy, green appearance. The tender, mild flesh is great for roasting, steaming, and sauteing.
Honeybear Acorn Squash
Honeybear Acorn Squash is a type of winter squash that is compact in size with a high yield. The fruit has an acorn shape, with a dark green exterior and orange flesh. Each plant produces around three to five fruits per bush.
When cooked, the squash has a sweet flavor, making it great for roasting and stuffing. They have a great flavoring and are great for single servings when halved.
Max’s Gold Summer Squash
Max’s Gold Summer Squash has compact vines and is highly productive. This variety of summer squash has long, straight fruits with a small seed cavity. It is known for its signature bright yellow-golden color.
The fruit on Max’s Gold Summer Squash is flavorful and has a lovely texture. This makes it great for grilling, roasting, salads and they are even great for snacking.
How To Grow Squash In A Pot
When growing squash in a pot, it is important to have a large enough container with proper drainage. The very minimum size you need is a container that is 24 inches in diameter. However, some squash may outgrow a container this size, so it may be best to invest in a larger size.
When planting squash in containers, it is best to place some fine gravel in the bottom covered by a piece of wire mesh to help with draining. Be sure to drill several large holes in the bottom of the container to help with the draining process. For soil, it is best to use soil that is loose and well-drained, with lots of organic matter.
Place your pot somewhere where the squash will receive at least seven hours of sunlight a day. It is best to place a trellis or stake to help support the weight of the plant as it grows. Water your squash when the soil is dry a couple of inches down.
FAQs
Can I grow a squash plant in a container?
Yes, you can. Squash is very forgiving and will grow just fine in a pot. If you are growing it for the winter months you might want to consider some type of a cold frame to protect it from frosts. If you are growing it for summer then you won’t need that. The thing to watch out for is watering it. It is easy to overwater and over-saturate your plants.
The only thing you need to do is make sure that it has enough light and space for the plant to develop roots. You can even get a seedling from a local garden center if you don’t want to purchase one. You just need to be patient. Squash take quite a bit of time to mature and are not always as prolific as some other vegetables.
How big of a pot do I need to grow squash?
Squash is easy to grow, but there are several things you need to be careful of. First, squash doesn’t like to be crowded. They need lots of room to grow and plenty of sun to thrive.
Squash plants are generally quite large, and will require a substantial container. However, there is some room for compromise if you can find a large enough pot (not one that’s too deep).
The usual recommendation is to plant a large squash plant in a 5 gallon pot. This will give you a lot of space for your roots, and they will also be well-supported by the sides of the pot. However, the depth of the pot will limit how much you can grow your squash plant. If you want to grow your squash plant in a pot with a diameter larger than a standard 5 gallon pot, you’ll have to consider whether or not the extra depth will be worth the cost of the larger container.
You need room for your root system, and to provide a good amount of support for your plant.
Can you grow squash indoors?
If you have a greenhouse and are willing to pay the $$$ for it, then you could grow them inside.
The best way to get a start is to buy a couple of seeds from the seed catalogue and plant them in a pot. The first year you plant them they will not produce anything, but next year they will produce. If you plant a large number of seeds they will produce at the same time. If you buy plants at the garden centre then you can plant them in a large container and put them outside in the summer. Squash seeds are very cheap, about $0.50 per dozen. You can also buy them in bulk from most garden centres, as they are usually in the bulk section. I grow my squash in pots in my greenhouse, and also in a big pot on my deck. They like a sunny spot with a lot of heat, so I’m usually outside in the summer. In winter, I bring them inside. They do well in containers because they get plenty of water.
Growing Squash In Containers At Your House Or Apartment
There are several great varieties of squash that you can grow in a pot. With a container that is at least 24 inches in diameter with good drainage and soil, your squash plant can thrive, producing delicious fruit. This is a great option if you are limited in space in your garden but love squash.
Do you have any questions regarding can you grow squash in a pot? If so, please ask any questions regarding growing squash in containers in the comment section down below.
December 29, 2021
Climbing Zucchini Varieties
Zucchini has become one of the most popular plants to grow in gardens. No matter your gardening skill level, it is a great plant to grow, as it often grows in abundance and is relatively easy to care for. For those wanting to utilize small spaces, there are climbing zucchini varieties that are great for growing on a fence or trellis.
Though zucchini may not be traditionally grown as a climbing plant, there are some varieties that are great for it. It may take some practice and experience to grow zucchini as a climbing plant, but it can be very successful when done right. It is a great way to grow them if you are limited on space in your garden.
Climbing Zucchini Varieties
Most types of zucchini plants require a lot of room to grow in gardens. This is due to the fact that they have tall spreading stems and overly large leaves, that often tend to take up a lot of garden space. Though this is normally fine if you have a large garden, for those with small gardens, this can be problematic.
For those who live in apartments or houses with small yards, there isn’t always enough room to grow zucchini, especially if you are wanting to grow other plants as well. Fortunately, there are some varieties of zucchini plants that do great as climbing plants.
By growing your zucchini plant on a fence or trellis, you can help save space in your garden. This space can then be used to grow other fruits and vegetables. The zucchini plant will grow up the trellis or fence, using it as a support system as it grows.
Many varieties of climbing zucchini display good tolerance against diseases. By planting your climbing zucchini seeds at the base of the support system you are using and tying them up the system as they grow, you will make them into climbing plants with no problem.
Though not every variety of zucchini is a good choice for growing as a climbing plant, there are some that work well for it. These varieties are particularly good to grow in small spaces. The best varieties to grow on a fence or trellis include Zucchino Rampicante, Black Forest, Raven, or Graybeard.
Zucchino Rampicante
Zucchino Rampicante also known as Zucchetta Tromboncino is a unique variety of squash that is considered both summer and winter. It has a unique, long slender form that makes it ideal for growing on vines, trellises, and fences.
The bulbous ends contain the seeds, while the necks are smooth, long, and slender. It is left on its own, they are capable of growing up to four feet long and have large, attractive leaves with silvery veins. The fruit is light green while the flesh is sweet and tender, making it great for grilling.
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While it is still young, the Zucchino Rampicante will have bright green skin that is striated. You can harvest it while it is still young as summer squash. The skin will be soft and the flesh will be sweet and slightly nutty.
You can also let it still grow until its skin becomes beige and tough. At this point, you can harvest it as winter squash. It is similar to butternut squash and you can store it for much longer compared to when you harvest it as summer squash.
Black Forest
Black Forest zucchini is great for growing in small spaces as it is wonderful for growing as a climbing plant. It has the ability to grow up to an incredible seven feet tall, so it will need good support when growing. The fruit is dark green with a long, slender cylinder shape and grows to be about six to nine inches long.
The Black Forest variety tends to have a very mild taste, making it a great option to use while baking. It is particularly popular to grow on patios in a large pot with trellis due to its ability to grow upward and since it doesn’t bush out at the base. In fact, it often tends to better in containers with very rich, well-drained soil than it does in a garden.
Raven
Raven zucchini is dark green with smooth, glossy skin. It is particularly tender fleshed and has a lovely flavor that is great for baking and cooking. It holds its quality, particularly while when it is large. Due to their ability to adapt easily, they can grow on trellis or fences.
The Raven variety is great for steaming, grilling, and baking. It is a hardy variety that will not get tough or woody with age. They can be picked as babies with the blossoms on or at larger sizes.
Greybeard
Greybeard zucchini has a light green/gray speckled color. They are compact and very productive, making them great for harvesting. They are a hybrid variety that is great for growing in gardens or on fences or trellis.
Greybeard zucchini has a pleasant mild taste which makes it great for both baking and cooking. It generally tends to be less watery than most types of zucchini.
FAQs
Can zucchini be grown vertically?
There are a number of ways to do this. You could grow a couple of plants in pots, then transplant them into the garden when they are ready. Or you could use a large container and plant the seedlings directly into it. You can also grow them in the ground, but you need a large space for them to grow.
Does zucchini need a cage or trellis?
Zucchini plants like to grow in a trellis. A good trellis can be made of wood, bamboo, etc. They are a large plant so they will need something to climb on; otherwise they just end up with their stems on the ground.
Is zucchini a climbing vine?
No, not really. But it can climb a trellis or a post and grow into a long, bushy plant that provides lots of squashy vegetables.
It’s easy and can be enjoyed right away. Zucchini is in the squash family, along with yellow crookneck, pattypan, and summer squash. It’s easy to grow, but a bit finicky about soil conditions. You’ll need well-drained soil with plenty of compost. The plants are heavy feeders. The soil should have a pH between 2.5 and 3. If it’s too acidic, the plants will produce lots of fruit but very little leaves; if it’s too alkaline, the plants will produce lots of leaves but not much fruit. Keep your soil moist but not wet. Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. Zucchini grows quickly and can be harvested as soon as the first flowers appear. But wait until the flowers have turned into fruits to pick the fruit. Zucchini plants don’t ripen their fruit all at once; it takes a couple of weeks after the fruit is formed to let the seeds develop enough to mature into squash. The fruit should be harvested while still green and firm. You can cut the stem at any time, but the plant will continue to produce fruit for several weeks. If you grow zucchini in containers, give them plenty of room.
Can you use tomato cages for zucchini?
Yes, it’s pretty easy. You can put the tomatoes up a tomato cage (they’re in 2’x2′ boxes) and then put the zucchini up in a tomato cage as well. The only thing you have to be careful of is that the zucchini don’t get too close to the tomatoes. If they are very crowded together, they will both grow into each other. But, that doesn’t happen very often because you can’t put too many zucchini in a single box. You might also want to look into growing your tomatoes up a trellis. This will keep them off the ground and give them some air circulation.
Growing Your Own Climbing Zucchini
Zucchini is a great plant to grow as it is easy to maintain, grows in abundance, and is versatile in many different dishes, both sweet and savory. Gardners anywhere from beginner to advance enjoy growing them as they are tasty and healthy. However, it oftentimes takes up a lot of space in the garden which can be problematic if you are limited on space.
Fortunately, there are some varieties of zucchini that do particularly great as a climbing plant. This makes them ideal for growing if you live in an apartment or have a yard with only limited space. Once you get the hang of it, it can be relatively easy to grow them up a fence or trellis.
Do you have any questions regarding climbing zucchini varieties? If so, please ask any questions regarding zucchinis and growing climbing plants in the comment section down below.
December 29, 2021
Rare Types Of Squash
Many gardeners enjoy squash as there are so many different varieties to choose from and they come with many health benefits. They are also very versatile and there are many different ways you can enjoy eating them. Though many people know about butternut squash or zucchinis, there are some rare types of squash that are also great for growing in your garden as well.
Though some of these varieties of squash are not as well known, they are still delicious and make a great addition to your garden. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, making them particularly fun to grow. No matter your experience level of gardening, you can try your hand at some of these unique and unusual squash.
What Is A Squash?
Squash is a family of plants that comes in many varieties. The varieties can be broken down into winter or summer squash. Though culinarily it is considered to be a vegetable, botanically it is technically a fruit since it contains fruit.
Squash is generally mild tasting and is great for use in both savory and sweet recipes. They come with many great health benefits, making them a great addition to your diet. Though there are several varieties, they are all fleshy with a rine for protection.
Winter vs Summer
The major difference between summer squash and winter squash is their skins. Winter squash has tough skins that are not edible whereas summer squash has thin skins that you can eat. In addition, summer varieties tend to have more tender flesh that is quite moist.
Winter squash is often harvested from late summer to early winter. It is not commonly eaten raw but is popular for sauteing, roasting, grilling, and baking. Popular winter squash includes butternut and spaghetti.
Summer squash is harvested all throughout the summertime. It can be eaten raw, but it is also great for baking, grilling, sauteing, steaming, and roasting. Popular varieties of summer squash include zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan.
Summer squash will often only last a few days after picking. However, winter varieties can last much longer, but they must be picked at maturity as they will not ripen any more after you harvest them.
Types Of Rare Squash
There are many different varieties of squash available today. Though you will often come across zucchini, pattypan, yellow squash, butternut squash, and spaghetti squash, these varieties are much less common. However, though they might not be as popular as other varieties, they are still great to grow and eat.
Though squash can come in summer or winter types, there tend to be more unusual winter squash varieties. They come in all sorts of shapes and varieties and make for a fun addition to your garden.
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Carnival
Carnival squash is a relatively new variety that is a cross between acorn squash and sweet dumpling squash. It is generally small to medium in size with ridged edges, coming in golden to creamy pale yellow with flecks of green. The flesh is tender and creamy while being a touch sweet.
You can find Carnival squash at specialty markets in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. It is great for soups and roasting.
Turban
Turban squash or Turk’s Turban or French Turban first gained recognition in 1818 in France. It is a unique squash that looks like a mushroom. Oftentimes it is a combination of orange, green, and creamy white in color.
Turban squash makes a beautiful decorative centerpiece and is also great for eating as well. It is good for making stews and soups as well as roasting. It is sold across America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Delicata
Delicata squash, also known as bohemian squash, peanut squash, and sweet potato squash, grows in an oblong shape. It is generally bright yellow in color with green stripes and has a mild yet sweet flavor along with a tender rind. It is great for use in baked goods such as muffins, bread, and cakes, along with soups.
Lakota
Lakota squash is pear-shaped in appearance with orange and green stripes. Not only does it make a beautiful fall decoration, but it is also great for eating as well, particularly as a soup. It has a rich history as it took over a century to create.
Buttercup
With a squatty round shape and dark green skin, buttercup squash has a unique appearance. Though they are often decorative, they have sweet, creamy flesh. They can be great for using in baked goods, pasta, and soups.
Kabocha
Kabocha makes up a small family of squashes, such as Sunshine Kabocha, which is often referred to as Japanese pumpkins. They have dark green skin with green or white stripes and are the sweetest of all the winter varieties. They have many uses including soup, pies, and baked goods, as they taste similar to sweet potatoes.
Blue Hubbard
Blue Hubbard is a large variety of squash that range in weight from 12 to 20 pounds. They have a light blue coloring with a taste similar to sweet potatoes. Dense and starchy, they are great for roasting, soups, and pies.
Honeynut
Honeynut squash comes from butternut and buttercup squash. They look like mini butternut squash but they have a richer orange coloring and sweeter flavor. They are great for many recipes including roasting, soups, and sauteing.
Red Kuri
Red Kuri squash has a distinctive teardrop shape with bright orange skin. They originate from Japan and have flesh that is delicate with a nutty flavor. It is a great variety for making soups, roasting, and grilling.
FAQs
How many types of squash exist?
Squash is a large, summer and winter-growing fruit with the general shape of a pumpkin, but more spherical than cylindrical. There are hundreds of varieties of squash, ranging in size from less than an inch to more than two feet. The name “squash” is also used to describe other fruits with similar shape and texture, such as pumpkins, zucchini, crookneck, and pattypan.
Summer squash varieties include pattypan, acorn, crookneck, and butternut. Winter squash varieties include pumpkin, Hubbard, delicata, and spaghetti.
Which type of squash is the sweetest?
I know that butternut squash is pretty sweet.
I would add that acorn squash is pretty mild, too. They have a lot of natural sugars in them, which caramelizes during roasting, making them sweeter. If you like to bake, then try baking them at 350°F for 45 minutes (they will still be firm) and then finish baking at 450°F for 15-20 minutes, until tender.
Squash are a member of the gourd family and are in the same botanical family as cucumbers, melons, pumpkins, and watermelons. They have a smooth skin with a hard rind, and they are generally yellow, orange, or green in color.
What is the most popular squash?
Butternut. It’s true. According to the USDA, more than 50% of all squash consumed in the United States is butternut.It requires no special equipment and grows quickly. For many families, butternut squash becomes a staple at Thanksgiving.
It’s high in vitamin A and B vitamins, contains lots of fiber, and it has a good amount of protein. Butternut squash is also easy to prepare. You can steam it, bake it, or roast it.
Can squash be eaten raw?
Yes, you can eat squash raw if it’s cut up, but there are a few things to consider. You should make sure that the squash is fully ripe. Ripe squash is bright orange and soft. Avoid buying squash that looks green or has brown spots. You should try to buy organic squash. You don’t need to use pesticides on your squash, but you do want to be careful about fertilizers and other chemicals that might be used in your garden.
You should avoid eating squash when they’re still hard or unripe.
You can eat squash raw because it’s high in vitamin A, which is important for your eyesight and immune system. Squash also contains a lot of fiber, which helps lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Squash is low in calories, so it’s a great food for those who are trying to lose weight.
Unique And Unusual Squash Varieties
These weird-looking squash may seem unusual, but they are actually great to use in many different recipes. They are great for growing in your own garden and are awesome for cooking and baking within your kitchen. In addition, they come with many great health benefits that squash is famous for.
Do you have any questions regarding rare types of squash? If so, please ask any squash-related questions on these unique varieties in the comment section down below.
December 29, 2021
What Does Butter Lettuce Look Like?
Do you know what butter lettuce is? Have you ever wondered what does butter lettuce look like? Butter lettuce is also a type of green lettuce. It is also referred to as Bibb lettuce or butterhead lettuce and this lettuce is also closely related to Boston lettuce.
Butter lettuce is one kind of lettuce common in the United States along with iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce. But when it comes to identifying or differentiating butter lettuce from other similar types of lettuce, do you find yourself getting confused?
Let’s look into what does butter lettuce actually looks like so we can have a clear picture of this lettuce variety. We will also be looking into what the butter lettuce taste like and more details about them. So, let’s look into this.
What Is Butter Lettuce: What Does Butter Lettuce Look Like
So, talking about butter lettuce, this lettuce is one popular lettuce type out there. Butter lettuce is a common lettuce variety known in the United States alongside iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce. It is a kind of green lettuce variety that is healthy and offers great nutritional benefits.
You may have heard of butter lettuce or you may be familiar with butter lettuce as Bibb lettuce or Boston lettuce. These two lettuces (Bibb and Boston lettuce) fall under the butter lettuce classification.
Butter lettuce looks like a silky bright green (leaves). The leaves are large and they feel tender and soft. The leaves are also cupped-shape. So, this makes them a great option for salad makings with some creamy dressings.
Butter lettuce will offer you that refreshing and nutritious tasty feel to your salad dish or sandwich. It can be used as a bed for various ingredients.
What Does Butter Lettuce Taste Like?
The taste of butter lettuce feels silky and soft and it tends to have a melting feel to the mouth. This lettuce will also offer that mild hint of floral sweetness.
Butter lettuce pairs well with sharp flavors such as strong cheese, meat, and citrus. It is also one of the most loved salads, especially with creamy dressing. You can as well make use of butter lettuce as a wrap or simply incorporate them into a mild crunch salad.
Does Butter Lettuce Taste Like Butter?
This lettuce variety having a butter name to it may have you wondering if it actually tastes like butter. The truth is that’s not the case. Butter lettuce is simply a name for the lettuce variety. It only has that smooth and creamy feel just like butter.
It is also popularly called butter lettuce because of that rich and smooth texture that tends to melt in your mouth.
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Butter Lettuces And Iceberg: Are They Different
Butter lettuce and iceberg lettuce may look pretty similar, but they aren’t the same. They are two different lettuce varieties.
These two lettuce varieties can be easily differentiated by simply looking at their leaves tend to grow.
The iceberg lettuce for instance looks like cabbage in its closed leaves pattern and rounded shape. Then butter lettuce tends to have a more open appearance.
Another difference between these two lettuces is that the iceberg isn’t as soft as butter lettuce. Iceberg tends to be crunchy and watery. Also, iceberg usually comes at a more affordable price.
Butter Lettuce Leaf Vs Other Lettuce Types
Apart from butter lettuce, let’s look into other lettuce varieties and see how they differ from butter lettuce. This is just so we can have an idea of other types of common lettuce and compare them:
- Crisp-head Lettuce: crisp-head lettuce is another lettuce variety that is also referred to as iceberg lettuce. This lettuce is often mistaken as a cabbage because of its round shape and pale green color. If you want that refreshing salad, then you should go for this juicy, crispy, and watery crisp-head lettuce.
- Romaine Lettuce: Romaine lettuce is very unique because of its elongated leafy green shape. This lettuce is one main ingredient used for people’s favorite caesar salad. The leaves are pretty crispy and the stems are as well crunchy. It also gives a semi-butter flavor.
- Stem Lettuce: the stem of this lettuce is pretty long and thick and the edible stem tends to give a mild flavor. If you wish to go for the best choice for pickled dishes and stir fry, then stem lettuce should be one of your lettuce choices.
- Leaf Lettuce: the leaf lettuce can come in a green to deep red color at its edges with riffled ends. It also comes with a loose joint at its stem. This lettuce variety isn’t too tender or too crispy. It simply possesses the appropriate buttery texture. Depending on the color of the lettuce, the taste can differ from mild to sweet.
Butter Lettuce Applications
Butter lettuce can be applied in our various culinary preparations. They are mostly used in salad dishes and can be made more pleasing with creamy dressing. Butter lettuce can as well be integrated into a mild crunchy salad.
Additionally, butter lettuce is used in sandwiches. They are as well used as wraps for foods. These butter lettuce wraps have low fats, carbs, low in calories. They are also low in sodium content so this makes them a very healthy vegetable.
You also don’t need to cook this lettuce as it can be enjoyed raw. You can pair butter lettuce with veggies, fruits, meat, and so on. So, butter lettuce is simply a versatile green that can be paired appropriately with different ingredients you can think of.
Nutritional Health Benefits Of Butter Lettuce
There are so many nutritional benefits to gain from butter lettuce. Some include:
- - Butter lettuce is a great source of Vitamin A, K, and C.
  - They are rich in iron and calcium that assist in building stronger bones.
  - This lettuce is a great source of carotenoid antioxidants such as beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
  - They help enhance healthy skin, muscles, as well as teeth.
FAQ’s
How do you identify butter lettuce?
Butter lettuce, also called cos lettuce or romaine lettuce, has a crisp, crunchy texture and light green leaves that are very popular in salads. Butter lettuce can be eaten raw or cooked as a leafy green vegetable. It’s available year round and has a mild flavor.
Store butter lettuce in a plastic bag with a moist paper towel. Rinse and dry the leaves before using.
Growing butter lettuce is easy. Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds can be started in flats or plug trays. Butter lettuce does well in warm weather but doesn’t like temperatures below 60 degrees F. Sow seeds 4 to 6 inches apart in rows 18 to 24 inches apart. Thin seedlings when they reach about 12 inches tall. Where can I buy it? You can find butter lettuce at farmers markets and grocery stores throughout the year.
What is similar to butter lettuce?
Butter lettuce has a milder flavor than romaine and has a slightly more bitter taste. The name comes from the fact that it resembles a butter-like substance when it is cut.
The leaves of butter lettuce (R. sativus) are similar to those of cos lettuce (Lactuca sativa), but they don’t have as many small crinkly or serrated leaves, so they may not be as good for making a salad mix. They do have a slightly sweeter taste though.
Is butter lettuce better than romaine?
Butter lettuce is much more tender and less bitter than romaine, It has crisp texture with a mild flavor and is very high in vitamin A, calcium and iron. The best part about this lettuce is that you can grow it yourself in a home garden or even in a window box!
How do you eat butter lettuce?
Butter lettuce is perfect for sandwiches and salads. This is a recipe that you´ll love! This recipe is a great way to prepare the lettuce and you will be amazed at how easy it is! Ingredients 1 head of Butter Lettuce 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil Salt & Pepper Directions Slice the lettuce into ribbons and place into a bowl. Add mustard, olive oil and salt and pepper.
Toss together until all of the pieces are coated in the mixture. What kind of bread is used for this salad? It is a French baguette and I like to use a rustic baguette because it has a nice chewiness to it. I also like to cut it in half lengthwise so that it will fit in my lunch box. What is the best way to store this salad? The salad should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It will keep for longer if you wrap the container with plastic wrap first and then seal the top with a piece of aluminum foil.
Conclusion
So, we have discussed what butter lettuce does look like so you can have an idea of its appearance. We also looked at other related things such as what they taste like, how they differ from some other lettuce, their applications, and so on.
December 9, 2021
Where Are Artichokes Grown – Get To Know Their Origin
Ever wondered where artichokes are grown? Do you know where they originate from? Let’s find out. Artichoke which is a food-giving plant is a variety of thistle.
We have up to 50 recorded varieties of artichokes all over the world. However, what we are familiar with in America is the Italian green globe variety.
Now there have been different debates on the particular origin artichokes came from. But what we would like to know is where are artichokes grown? So let’s dive in and find out more about where artichokes are derived from.
A Little About Artichoke And Their Origin
Artichokes are one of the oldest cultivated vegetables that have been enjoyed for centuries. It’s been agreed generally by historians that artichoke is a native of the Mediterranean perennial plant. However, there have been other speculations that it came from Sicily or the Italian region while others have hinted it came from Northern Africa.
Artichokes are actually the better version of Cardoon which tends to be smaller and prickly.
They first gained their popularity in the 1905’s with an increased interest majorly because of their gourmet flavor and fascinating look.
Where Do Artichokes Grow?
So, where does artichoke grow? As of today, the majority of artichokes have grown all over the world. And cultivated from Southern European countries such as Italy, France, and Spain. Then California produces almost 100 percent of the United States crop.
Also, some countries in South America grow artichoke as well as North Africa. But Italy is one of the biggest producers of artichokes in the world.
Hundred percent of the artichokes grown commercially in the United States are grown from Monterey county California. This plant is a perennial plant. Sustained in the field for about 5 to 10 years.
The journey of artichoke in California started on the East coast where French allied soldiers during the Revolutionary war introduced these plants to America. In the 1720s, the globe artichoke varieties started showing up in Virginia.
Back then, California did not see the artichoke plant as a favorable cash crop until the 1890s. This was when the Italian farmers in Half Moon Bay planted them. Around 1904, boxcars were been filled up with artichokes and they were sent to the East coast. Then around 1922, Italian farmers relocated artichokes to California’s Salinas Valle. Grown here ever since then.
There are, as well baby artichokes which are simply the smaller version of the bigger artichokes.
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Growing Zone For Artichokes
Artichoke will flourish and grow well in mild winter, cool summers, and lots of moisture. Because artichokes are perennial plants, they tend to do well in hardiness zone 7 to 11.
Gardeners that wish to grow artichokes in colder regions can grow artichokes to be an annual vegetable. Or you can simply over-winter the variety of artichokes that is perennial in a sheltered spot.
Artichoke Growing Tips
Grown for their tender edible flower bud is the popular globe artichokes varieties. Here are some useful tips to guide you on how to grow artichokes:
- - When growing artichokes, you can aim towards the long term if artichokes are perennial to your region. They will grow in that particular spot for about 5 years.
  - Artichoke plants are sun-loving plants. So, because they tend to grow large, ensure you space them adequately so each plant does not overshadow each other or shade other plants partially. The ideal plant spacing for artichoke is 4 feet apart in a location with full sun.
  - Provide artichoke plants with soil that is rich in nutrients and use loamy soil preferably.
- - Once you’ve planted, make sure to water them. Also, provide constant moisture all through the growing season of the artichoke plant. Aim to water the upper inch of the soil whenever they turn dry.
  - Ensure you eliminate any weed. Then you should further encourage soil moisture retention by mixing a 4-inch layer of mulch. You can get the mulch from materials like dry grass clippings, straws, or aged manure. This will further prevent weeds.
  - When you begin to notice bud formation, take away the mulch and add a 4-inch layer of compost.
  - Then when it’s time to harvest, you should harvest your artichokes when they have attained a diameter of about 3 inches. Pack the artichokes should also be tightly
Growing Artichoke In Container
You can as well grow artichokes in big containers. Simply select a pot or half whiskey barrel of 24 inches in diameter. Then fill the container with potting soil mix. Grow artichoke in an ideal environment.
Artichoke Preparations
Artichoke can be prepared in different manners such as boiling, steaming, grilling, as well as frying. Even though globe artichokes are a bit awkward to cut through and prepare, once you’ve been able to master the act of preparations, then you can enjoy this great-tasting vegetable.
Prepare artichokes the following way:
- - Trim the stem roughly into 5 cm.
  - Detach the outer leaves until you can see the pale center leaves.
  - Then take away any leftover hard outer leaves with the help of a peeler.
  - Further cut across the top of the artichoke heart unfold or reveal the choke (i.e. the hairy part in the center of the choke).
  - With the help of a spoon, scoop out the choke and dispose of it.
  - Then you can proceed to cook your artichoke. Make sure you cook it as soon as possible to prevent discoloration and oxidization.
Where Are Artichokes Grown: Conclusion
Artichokes being a food-giving plant is one of the oldest foods eaten by humans. They are one of the oldest vegetable grown and consumed for centuries. Used in culinary applications and it offers great health benefits.
Grown from Southern European countries such as Italy, France, and Spain are the majority of artichokes. In the United States, California is one of the major producers of artichokes. However, Italy is the major producer of artichokes in the world.
So, we do hope you’ve learned some things about where artichokes are grown from.
December 9, 2021
Get To Know About Harvesting Coriander Seeds
The seeds produced by cilantro are known as coriander seeds. So, let’s talk about harvesting coriander seeds. The delicious cilantro plants are commonly grown for their leaves, but you can also enjoy the coriander seeds of the cilantro herb in your culinary applications.
Even though coriander seeds are obtained from the cilantro plant, these seeds offer different flavors from cilantro leaves. So, in case you’re not a fan of cilantro leaves, you can give the coriander seed a try because they tend to taste totally different from the leaves.
In this guide, we will be looking into harvesting coriander seeds, what the coriander seed taste like, their culinary applications, and others. So, continue reading for some insight on these.
Harvesting Coriander Seeds: When To Harvest
The cilantro plant is a cool-season crop. So, harvesting the coriander seeds of the cilantro herb is done when the plant enters into bolting stage. Once the plant has entered the bolting stage, it will flower and produce coriander seeds. This is when we can harvest the coriander seeds.
Harvest Coriander: Tips On Harvesting
The beauty of growing cilantro is that you can aim to harvest both the leaves as well as the seeds. But what we will be looking at is how to harvest the coriander seed.
Ideally, the natural end cycle of the cilantro plant is when it bolts. Bolting produces flowers. This results in coriander seeds that we wish to harvest. So, when your cilantro plant starts to produce clusters of flowers and starts to grow seeds, you can harvest your coriander seeds.
Here are some tips for harvesting coriander seeds:
- - Let the cilantro plant flower and produce seeds.
  - Pinch off the stem near the bottom of the stalk with the seed heads when you’ve noticed the leaves and seeds has begun turning brown.
  - Then proceed to hang the stems upside down in a paper bag in a cool and dry place. When the coriander seeds become ripe, they will fall off from the head of the seed drop into the bag.
  - Then you can proceed to store your coriander seeds.
How To Grow Cilantro To Aim For Coriander Seeds Harvest
The cilantro plant loves is mostly grown in North America for its leaves, but the seeds are as well great to harvest and use in our different cuisines. Cilantro is a cool-weather crop meaning the plant thrives well in cool conditions or environments.
The ideal temperature for cilantro to flourish is around 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (mainly for cilantro leaves harvest). Hence, this plant will thrive well in cool conditions.
Therefore, the ideal time to plant or grow cilantro is around spring or fall. Don’t try to force the cilantro plant to grow during summer even though the hot season encourages bolting and seeding. Temperatures higher or hotter than 85 degrees Fahrenheit will encourage bolting. Bolting will result in flowering and coriander seeding.
Additionally, if you aim to obtain coriander seeds sooner, avoid picking cilantro leaves too often. Picking cilantro leaves too often will slow down bolting and in turn, slow down seed production.
Keeping them intact for a while, will give the plant more energy to focus on flowering and going into seed production.
However, if you still wish to aim for both cilantro leaves as well as coriander seeds, just differentiate or design some plants for cilantro leaves and others for coriander seeds.
Storing Coriander Seed
Once you’ve harvested the coriander seeds and it has dropped off into the paper bag, the dried seeds should be stored in an air-tight jar.
What Does Coriander Seed Taste Like?
The taste of coriander seed is simply unique. It has this citrusy and slightly nutty flavor. You can as well say it taste like citrus and curry, with a light and sweet flavor.
The way this coriander seed is prepared also affects the final flavor as well as other flavors it tends to go well with.
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Basically, the flavor of coriander seeds gets intensified when you cook them for a longer time. However, their unique flavor tends to fall into the background.
But if you probably incorporate raw coriander by briefly toasting it before you add it to your food as a finishing touch, then it can retain more of its lightness.
Coriander Culinary Applications
Coriander seeds can be incorporated or used in various types of cuisines. Used in various parts of the world including Latin American, Mexico, the United States, and so on.
Coriander seed is great to use in different flavors in our kitchen. This awesome-tasting coriander seed goes or pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted vegetables, lentils, beans, rice, and many more.
The earthy and lemony lilt tends to go well with all types of legumes especially the lentils for daal. In addition, coriander can excellently improve different meat such as lamb, pork, chicken, duck, etc, especially in a gradual braise.
Furthermore, coriander will offer great taste once you pair them with fruits, vegetables, and spices. If you also wish to add vigor or life to your various cruciferous vegetables, then the coriander seed is a great spice to make use of.
This coriander seed is a crucial part of homemade curry powder with some complex barbecue rubs. It can also pair well with parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. It is great to add in cookies, crumbles, and dessert sauces as it will liven up and intensify buttery flavors.
FAQ’s
How do you know when coriander seeds are ready for harvest?
Coriander seeds can be harvested at any time between the time they are fully ripe and dried out (this usually occurs within two weeks).
Once coriander seeds have been harvested, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to six months. If you plan on making your own coriander seed oil, you will need to wait until the seeds are completely dry before grinding them. This process takes about one week.
What are the benefits of using coriander seeds?
Coriander seeds are a very versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are widely used as a spice in Indian, African, and Asian cuisines. Coriander seeds are also used as a flavoring agent in many beverages. They are often added to tomato-based dishes like ketchup, chili sauce, and salsa. They can also be used to flavor vegetable dishes. Some people use coriander seeds to make curry pastes and curry powder. When used in these applications, coriander seeds impart a subtle citrus aroma. Coriander seeds are also known to reduce flatulence. They are used as a digestive aid and to treat colic. They are also used to treat diarrhea and stomach cramps.
How do you preserve coriander seeds?
Coriander seeds can be stored for up to six months. They should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. The seeds can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month.
How do you prepare coriander seeds?
Coriander seeds can be ground into a powder or a paste. The type of preparation you choose depends on how you plan to use the coriander seeds. You can use a mortar and pestle to grind coriander seeds into a fine powder. This is the most common way to prepare coriander seeds. You can also use a blender or food processor to make a paste. This is the second most popular way to prepare coriander seeds. You can also prepare coriander seed oil.
Always use caution when handling coriander seeds. It is important to wear gloves when preparing coriander seeds to prevent skin irritation. People who have a severe allergy to garlic or onion should avoid eating coriander seeds.
Can I eat raw coriander seeds?
Coriander is a spice that has been used for centuries. It’s one of the spices in curry and can be found in many commercial dishes (e.g., Mexican food).
Raw coriander seeds are not difficult to digest. However, they are known to irritate the stomach when eaten raw. The problem is that the oil from the seeds coats the stomach lining and causes inflammation, which can lead to gastritis. Eating raw coriander seeds is not recommended if you have a history of ulcers or stomach problems.
Final Say
Coriander seeds are derived or obtained from the cilantro plant. When the cilantro plant bolts and enters into its flowering stage, the coriander seeds are produced afterward.
Harvesting coriander seeds is pretty easy and straightforward. We have outlined some tips you can follow to successfully aim to grow and harvest coriander seeds for your cooking pleasure. Coriander is an excellent spice you can incorporate in our various meals and will liven up so many dishes.
Cilantro leaves aren’t the only useful part of the plant when it comes to culinary applications. The seed derived from cilantro is an awesome spice to add to your various dishes. Coriander seeds can pair well with grilled vegetables, roasted vegetables, lentils, beans, rice, and so on.
December 9, 2021
What Does Cilantro Look Like When It Sprouts?
Have you ever wondered what cilantro plants look like when they sprout? Let’s find out. Germinating cilantro from the beginning with seeds may be frustrating, even for the most experienced gardener.
With the proper knowledge and the appropriate growing settings, you can achieve successful cilantro germination.
So, once you have achieved growing cilantro from seeds and it begins to germinate, we would like to know what exactly it looks like when it sprouts.
This post will give you an idea of how cilantro looks when it sprouts, tips on how to grow or germinate cilantro successfully, and many more. So, continue reading to gain some insight on these.
What Do Cilantro Sprouts Look Like?
So, what exactly does the cilantro look like when it sprouts? Once you’ve perfected the growing requirements for the cilantro seed to grow, you should begin to see some sprouts.
After sowing cilantro seeds for about seven days or less, you should notice some white sprouts emerging from the seed planted. You can easily check this out by slowly exposing the soil with your fingers and uncovering the seeds.
Cilantro sprouting will result in green sprouting that should begin to emerge through the soil out of the seeds after another 2 or 3 days.
How Long Does Cilantro Take To Grow?
Once you’ve planted or sown the cilantro seeds, sprouting or germination should begin after 7 to 10 days.
However, cilantro germinating from seeds can be pretty tricky. You need to create the ideal seed setting so your seed can germinate.
Tricks To Growing Cilantro To Get A Successful Germination
You can grow cilantro from seeds either in your garden or in containers. So, to achieve germinating cilantro successfully, follow these tips:
1.    Prepare the cilantro seed by soaking
Cilantro seeds are inside a hard husk containing two seeds. Remove the husk to remove the seeds. Before you plant these seeds, you need to prepare them to boost their chance of germinating.
Soaking the cilantro seed is the trick to achieving better germination. Therefore, soak the seeds for 10 to 48 hours, remove the water, and allow the seeds to dry. Soaking these seeds will help them grow better and quicker.
2.    Planting
After seed preparation follows planting, you can sow your cilantro seeds indoors or outdoors. Insert the seeds into the soil and cover the seeds with about a quarter-inch soil layer.
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3.    Watering
Maintain moist soil to encourage germination, but don’t overclog the soil. Let the soil dry out before watering again to prevent mold and diseases from infesting the seedlings.
4.    Thinning
You should start noticing white sprouting after 7 to 10 days. Allow the cilantro to germinate until it is about 2 inches long. Then, thin the seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart.
Grow cilantro in a crowded environment so the leaves can shade the plant roots. This will slow down the plant’s bolting during hot weather.
5.    Sunlight
Even though the cilantro plant doesn’t like too much sunlight, the seedlings still need a few hours of full sun. Cilantro can still tolerate light shade.
If you’re growing in a container, provide the seedlings with some sunlight. However, ensure the sunlight exposure to the seedlings is not more than 4 to 5 hours of full sun; otherwise, it can cause wilting and even death of the plant.
Then, two or three weeks later, you can slowly increase your cilantro plants’ outdoor exposure. This way, they can harden off and acclimate to the outdoor conditions.
Ideal Growing Conditions For Cilantro
Here are some additional growing tips for you to enjoy a continuous harvest of cilantro leaves:
- Cilantro should be grown in rich and properly draining soil.
- Cilantro still requires some sunlight, but not too much, so it doesn’t enter the bolting stage. If you reside in a warmer region, it’s advisable to offer afternoon shade to your cilantro.
- The ideal pH range for a cilantro plant to grow optimally is around 6.2 to 6.8. So, ensure you perform the appropriate soil test before planting to achieve this.
- You can enhance the soil by incorporating and mixing inches of compost or other organic matter. If you’re growing cilantro in containers, consider a premium bagged potting mix.
- To enjoy productive leaf production, supply your cilantro by constantly feeding it with water-soluble plant food.
When To Plant Cilantro
You should plant cilantro in early spring or fall, about a month before the last frost. For zone 8, 9, and 10, the best period to plant cilantro is around fall. This is mainly because the plant tends to last through the right until the weather warms or heats up during late spring.
Harvesting And Storing Cilantro
Cilantro’s foliage can be harvested continually, and you can enjoy the cut-and-come-again feel. Ensure you cut back all the leaves so they can grow back. It would be best to harvest the leafy stems near the ground level.
However, don’t harvest more than 1/3 of the leaves at once to prevent weakening the stem. Simply harvest what you need at a time to promote vigorous growth.
Once cilantro is grown under the appropriate conditions with constant harvest, it can be enjoyed for many weeks in continuous production.
Storing
Once you’ve harvested cilantro leaves, cover them loosely with an upside-down plastic bag and pop them in the fridge. Using this method, you can store cilantro for up to a month.
FAQ’s
What does cilantro look like when it starts to sprout?
The seeds are blackish-green and look like black pepper. Once the seeds germinate, they grow upward, looking somewhat like a green bean. After a few weeks, the leaves begin to emerge.
Cilantro is a perennial herb with leaves that look like miniature versions of the lettuce leaf. Cilantro is a very popular and versatile herb for cooking and seasoning. It is easy to grow and is great as an addition to your kitchen garden. A cilantro plant can be grown from seed in many different ways, but one of the easiest ways is to start them indoors in a seed starting mix.
The seedlings will be ready to transplant out into their permanent home in approximately 7-10 weeks.
How can you tell if a plant is cilantro?
There are a few ways. The first is to look at the leaves. If they are large and round with a nice strong aroma, that’s probably cilantro. The second is to look at the stems. They should be green and fibrous. There’s not much to look at for basil. The third is to look at the seeds. If the seeds are small and hard, that’s probably cilantro.
The herb cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) has become ubiquitous in the American kitchen. It is used as an ingredient in everything from salad dressings and marinades to soups, stir-fries, chili, sauces, and even desserts.
If it’s not the fresh, familiar herb that adds so much flavor to soups and stews, it may be the dried spice known as coriander. It’s a member of the parsley family, and it’s often called “the other cilantro” because it’s hard to find fresh cilantro and easier to find dried coriander.
Will cilantro grow back after cutting?
You can get a second crop, but you might have to wait until next year.
Your cilantro should recover and produce new leaves for another season.
What is the best time of year to plant cilantro?
Planting in late fall gives your cilantro a chance to grow through the winter. If you start early in the spring, the plants won’t have a chance to put down roots before they’re killed by cold temperatures.
What is the difference between fresh and dried cilantro?
Fresh cilantro has a much more potent aroma than dried cilantro. The taste is also more pungent. Dried cilantro is usually sold in small bags and can be added to soups, sauces, rice dishes, etc. Fresh cilantro is used in dishes with Mexican or Asian flavors. Dried cilantro is used in dishes with Indian or Thai flavors.
How do you make fresh cilantro last longer?
When your cilantro begins to wilt, don’t throw it away. Instead, place the wilted cilantro in a plastic bag and seal it. Store the cilantro in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How do you grow cilantro?
Cilantro can be grown from seed or transplanted. To germinate seeds, place them in a tray and cover them with a damp towel. You can also sow the seeds directly into the ground. The seeds are ready to transplant when they have sprouted and have developed two true leaves. If you plant the seeds indoors, you should put them in individual pots about four weeks before planting outside. To grow cilantro outdoors, you’ll need to provide it with at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
What Does Cilantro Look Like When It Sprouts: Conclusion
When it comes to what cilantro looks like when it sprouts, some white sprouts are usually noticed once it begins to germinate. This is noticed 7 to 10 days after seed sowing. Then, a few days later, some green sprouts should be seen emerging from the seed sown.
December 9, 2021
Do Tomatoes Like Acidic Soil?
Various plants have different pH levels they favor. Some plants thrive well in acidic soil while others thrive in alkaline soil. When it comes to tomatoes, let’s find out if tomatoes do like acidic or soil.
If you are a gardener and you wish to be successful in your planting endeavors, you need to be enlightened on the necessary soil growing needs for your plant to flourish.
Soil pH is one essential growing requirement and the growing requirement for different plants varies. So, in this article, we will be focusing on the tomato plant.
The pH level of the tomato plant is one important factor to consider when aiming for successful tomato growth. So, let’s get to know if tomatoes do like acidic or alkaline soil.
Are Tomatoes Acid Loving Plants?
Now let’s find out if tomatoes plants do like acidic soil. Ideally, tomato plants will flourish in slightly acidic soil. Hence, it’s safe to say tomatoes are slightly acid-loving plants.
Therefore, when considering growing tomatoes in your garden, ensure you check the pH soil range of your soil so it suits the tomato plant you intend to grow.
So, let’s dive in further and look into the ideal pH range of the tomato plant.
PH Level For Tomatoes: What Is The Appropriate Range?
Now we know tomatoes do like acidic soil. PH levels or range that falls below 7 on the pH scale is known to be acidic.
Therefore, the appropriate soil pH range for the tomato plant to thrive well is around 6.0 to 6.5. However, tomato plants can still grow outside this range but they just won’t thrive so vigorously as they would in their appropriate pH range.
So, supplying your tomato plants with the appropriate pH levels will offer you a healthy tomato plant as well as a great harvest.
How Do You Acidify Soil For Tomatoes: Useful Tips To Adjust Soil PH
The right soil is needed for you to grow the best tomato plant. Just like the soil texture and nutrient content also matter, the pH of the tomato plant is also important.
This is why you need to create ideal growing environments or conditions for your tomatoes. Amending your soil to suit the plant is the right thing to do. A soil additive is generally a great way to raise or even lower the pH range of your soil.
- - The first thing you should do before amending your soil to suit the tomato growing need is to test the soil. Know the current pH range or status of your garden soil and adjust accordingly.
Once you know the status of your, then you can proceed to either raise the soil pH or lower the soil pH. Remember, the appropriate tomato soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 6.5. So work with this range.
So, if you have decided to grow tomatoes in your garden and you wish to know to adjust (lower or raise soil pH) the soil in your garden, here are some useful tips to put you through:
1. Soil Amendments For Raising Soil pH
Raising your garden soil pH is required once you’ve tested and confirmed your soil pH is too low for the tomato plant to thrive. Here are some common soil amendments for raising the soil pH to suit your plants:
- - Limestone: Limestone is also known as calcium carbonate and it can be found in antacids tablets and chalks. The addition of limestone raises the soil pH. Additionally, limestone will also supply calcium to your plants.
  - Wood ash: The addition of wood ash will help increase the soil pH in the garden. Just like limestone, wood ash will also provide calcium as an added bonus to your plant.
  - Dolomitic Lime: Dolomitic lime is also similar to limestone and it will help raise the soil pH level. This amendment is rich in magnesium and calcium. Therefore, it will provide both calcium and magnesium to your tomato plants.
  - Calcium Sources: Sources of calcium will also help increase the soil pH level. Calcium sources include eggshells, bone meal, and clamshells. These amendments tend to work better and faster if they are ground into fine powder.
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2. Soil Amendments For Lowering Soil pH
So, for soil pH that is too high, lowering them to suit your tomato plant is the ideal way. Here are some common soil amendments that can help lower the soil pH in your garden:
- - Sulfur: Sulfur is an element that helps decrease soil pH range. But this amendment works gradually and it can take months for it to take full effect. Sulfur is also an essential nutrient required by your plant. Therefore, sulfur addition will help prevent the deficiency of sulfur.
  - Sulfates: Amendments such as iron sulfate or aluminum sulfate both assist in decreasing the soil pH. Sulfates work faster compared to elemental sulfur. But take note and be careful not to use too much so you don’t have excessive aluminum or iron in your garden soil.
  - Ammonium-based fertilizer: Ammonium-based fertilizer that includes ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate is great to lower soil pH faster. However, these fertilizers have fast action that they may burn your plant if used inappropriately. Therefore, ensure you use the right dose.
Why It Pays For Your Tomato Soil To Be Acidic
Here are some benefits of supplying acidic pH to your tomato plants:
- - The tomato plant thrives well in an acidic environment.
  - You enjoy a healthier tomato plant and a better yield.
  - Nutrients can be well assimilated or absorbed from the soil with the right pH range. Therefore, the necessary nutrients required by your tomato plant become available for proper growth.
FAQ’s
Do tomatoes prefer acidic or alkaline soils?
The pH of soil has a lot to do with the amount of fruit produced, but so does how much water is available to the plant.
Tomatoes like acidic soil. They also like lots of water. Soil that has lots of clay tends to be dry.
Too much acidity and your plants will develop blossom-end rot (BEN), which is a fungal infection that can cause your tomato plants to rot at the blossom end.
If you live in a cool area with a high humidity and you grow your tomatoes in a raised bed, you should add lime to the soil. The acidity of the soil will be too low, which will lead to blossom end rot. You should also add more organic matter and compost if the soil is already very acidic.
What’s the best pH for tomatoes?
When it comes to growing tomatoes, there are a number of things that you need to consider. One of these is the soil pH. The pH of your soil will have a great impact on the growth and development of your tomatoes.The best pH for tomatoes is between 5.5 and 7.5.
If you are growing your tomato plants in a pot, then you can easily adjust the pH of your soil by adding some lime or sulfur. But if you are growing them in the ground, then it’s a little bit more difficult.
What does lime do to soil?
Lime is a naturally occurring chemical that is found in the soil. Lime is one of the few soil amendments that can increase the pH of soil. It does this by making calcium ions and hydrogen ions more available in the soil, which makes them easier for plants to absorb.
What is the fastest way to lower pH in soil?
The fastest way to lower soil pH is by using lime. The amount of lime you need will depend on the existing pH and soil conditions, but typically I would suggest a 1/2 or 3/4 ratio of lime to soil.
How do I make sure that the soil is ready for my tomatoes?
You could do a test with a soil test kit. If you are using fertilizer, then you’ll want to test for nutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulphur, and Iron. The kit will tell you what needs to be added. If you have no soil amendments, then you can try adding compost and see how it affects the soil. If it doesn’t improve the soil, then maybe you’ll need to get a soil amendment. I’d go with some sort of soil amendment. You don’t want to make the soil too acidic or too alkaline. If the soil is too acidic, then you can add lime or dolomite to raise the pH.
Do Tomatoes Like Acidic Soil: Final Say
We have seen that tomatoes plants do like acidic soil. Therefore, if you wish to have a healthy and bountiful tomato harvest, it is important you supply your tomato with an acidic growing medium.
Some soil amendments are great for improving the soil in your garden. Remember, the first thing to do to adjust your soil pH is to test your soil to know the status of your soil. We have listed out some useful tips to help with soil amendments for increasing and lowering the pH levels of your soil to suit your tomato plant.
December 8, 2021
List Of Non-Cruciferous Vegetables
Vegetables are an important part of people’s diets. There is a large variety of vegetables, including non-cruciferous and cruciferous. This post will share a list of non-cruciferous vegetables that will make a great addition to your garden.
There are many great non-cruciferous vegetables that not only taste good but are also packed full of many important nutrients. They are great to incorporate into your diet daily. In addition, many of them are great for growing in your home garden.
Cruciferous Vs Non-Cruciferous Vegetables
If you are an avid gardener, you may have heard of the terms cruciferous vegetables and non-cruciferous vegetables. However, many people are unfamiliar with the two terms.
Cruciferous vegetables belong to the Brassicaceae family of plants and are native to Europe and the Medderteranian, along with the temperate regions of Asia. These leafy green vegetables are low in calories and high in nutrients. Oftentimes they are particularly high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and also vitamin K.
Many cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinolates, which exhibit cancer-fighting properties. In addition, they improve heart health, aid in weight loss, and reduce inflammation. Common cruciferous vegetables include brussels sprouts, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, radish, turnip, arugula, and bok choy.
However, cruciferous vegetables can lead to thyroid problems in some people, particularly when eaten raw. For those with thyroid problems, it is best to stick with non-cruciferous vegetables. There are a large variety of non-cruciferous vegetables that are full of important vitamins and also nutrients.
Complete List Of Non-Cruciferous Vegetables
Non-cruciferous vegetables can be grown all throughout the world. They are a popular choice among many people, whether they have thyroid problems are not. Many of them are great for snacking, salads, smoothies, sauteing, boiling, or however else you would like them prepared.
Here is a list of non-cruciferous vegetables you should have in your kitchen. Many of them are also great to grow in your own garden as well.
Spinach
Spinach is a popular vegetable thanks to its versatility and health benefits. It is loaded with nutrients as well as antioxidants and is excellent for salads and also sauteing.
Parsley
Parsley has many benefits including helping with high blood pressure, allergies, and also inflammatory diseases. It is a wonderful vegetable to use as a garnish or topping in sandwiches, salads, pasta, and salad dressings.
Beets
Beets are packed full of manganese, fiber, vitamin C potassium, folate, and also iron. They are a wonderful vegetable to roast or even pickle.
Cilantro
Cilantro is an herb that many use in salsas, guacamole, soups, and as a garnish for meats. It provides significant dietary fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
Lettuce
Lettuce is one of the most popular vegetables thanks to its health benefits and versatility. Many different varieties are great for salads, wraps, toppings, and more.
Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is an excellent source of antioxidants, nutrients, minerals, and also vitamins, especially vitamins A, C, and E. Many people add wheatgrass to their smoothies as it blends well and has a mild taste.
Moringa
Moringa is popular for its numerous health benefits, including its high levels of vitamin C and potassium. It can come in a powder form that can be used to make tea and in addition, smoothies.
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Dandelion
Though many people just think of dandelion as a weed, it comes with many health benefits. Sometimes used in herbal medicine, dandelions have antioxidants and can also fight inflammation, lower cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar.
Chicory
Chicory comes with many health benefits and is a common remedy for helping with liver and heart health, as also constipation. Many people use it as a spice and in some cases, people will also add it to coffee grounds.
Carrots
Carrots are one of the most popular vegetables to eat and many people also enjoy growing them in their gardens. They are rich in vitamin A, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Green Beans
Green beans come in many different varieties and are enjoyed in many different ways. These tasty greens are high in vitamin K and calcium.
Sweet Potatoes
Delicious and nutritious, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and antioxidants. People enjoy them in many ways including baked, fries, casserole, mashed and roasted.
Ginger
Ginger is one of the healthiest and most popular spices in the world, as it contains antioxidants and can aid in nausea, weight loss, and heart health. It is popularly used as a spice in baking and also cooking.
Garlic
Many people love the strong taste of garlic, making it popular in many savory dishes. It is a good source of manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, fiber, and also selenium.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a good source of fiber that also helps with digestive health, as well as reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Many people enjoy growing it in their own gardens and then grilling or roasting it.
Peas
Peas come in wide varieties and people often enjoy incorporating them into different savory dishes. They are a good source of vitamins C, vitamin E, zinc, and antioxidants.
Cucumbers
Many people enjoy growing cucumbers and then eating them in salads or as pickles. These crunchy veggies are high in antioxidants and promote hydration.
Celery
Celery is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C and makes a great low-calorie snack. It can be eaten raw or added to soups, stews, and chilis.
Can Cruciferous Vegetables Cause Headaches?
There is no evidence suggesting that cruciferous vegetables cause headaches. On the contrary, these veggies are really healthy! Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are excellent sources of vitamins C and K and dietary fiber.
However, they can lower your estrogen levels. A fast decrease in estrogen can disrupt your hormones, leading to symptoms like headaches. Eating a lot of these vegetables can also cause bloating and gas. This pain might lead to a headache for some people. But it’s not common.
You should speak to your doctor if you experience headaches after eating cruciferous vegetables. There might be an underlying cause.
Are Cruciferous Vegetables Complex Carbohydrates?
Cruciferous vegetables are complex carbohydrates. Carbs form when carbon dioxide and water combine during photosynthesis. Green cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts, contain plenty of this. They are part of the Brassica family hosting veggies that are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
You should include a variety of cruciferous vegetables in your diet. Complex carbs are more filling and nutrient-packed. They also aid in weight loss and keep blood sugar levels balanced. Your energy levels will be steadier, and you’ll have an easier time functioning throughout the day if you include cruciferous veggies in your diet.
Can Cruciferous Vegetables Cause Diarrhea?
Cruciferous vegetables contain plenty of whole carbs. One such is raffinose, and many people have difficulty digesting it. If you aren’t used to eating a lot of carbs and fiber, your digestive tract can have trouble processing it.
Undigested fiber and carbs like raffinose can cause bloating, gas and diarrhea when it reaches the large intestine.
Are Cruciferous Vegetables High in Potassium?
Cruciferous vegetables are a good source of potassium. It’s essential to include these in your diet. Eating cruciferous veggies daily will ensure your body gets all the nutrients it needs. Healthy adults should consume about 4,700 milligrams of potassium per day. Here’s a list of potassium-rich cruciferous vegetables:
- Broccoli – contains approximately 316 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams
- Bok Choy – has about 176 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams
- Brussels Sprouts – contains roughly 389 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams
- Cabbage – contains about 170 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams
- Kale – has approximately 491 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams
How Long Does it Take to Digest Cruciferous Vegetables?
The time it takes for food to digest varies depending on multiple factors. The type of food, your digestive system, and how much you’ve eaten influence this. Whether you ate the food raw or cooked also makes a difference.
Cruciferous veggies are high in fiber. You might think this makes it easier to digest, but most people find it more difficult. It can take a little longer for these to pass through your digestive system compared to other types of food.
Leafy cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale can take up to 50 minutes to digest when you eat them cooked. If you chew down on them raw, they can take even longer!
Delicious and Nutritious Non-Cruciferous Veggies
Several delicious non-cruciferous vegetables are great for incorporating into your diet. They are a particularly good option if you struggle with thyroid problems. Many of them are great for growing in your very own home garden.
Non-cruciferous vegetables come in a wide variety, from sweet potatoes to spinach. Many of them are also great to prepare in a variety of different ways.
Do you have any questions regarding this list of non-cruciferous vegetables? If so, please ask any questions regarding non-cruciferous and cruciferous vegetables in the comment section down below.
FAQs
Is spinach considered a cruciferous vegetable?
“Crucifer” refers to plants in the family Cruciferae, which is made up of broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, kale, collard greens, and cabbage. Spinach doesn’t fall into this category.
Is lettuce considered cruciferous?
It’s a member of the brassica family, which is also known as Cruciferae, along with cabbage and broccoli. Brassica is the name of the family, not the name of the individual plants. The family includes broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, mustard, radish, turnip, and horseradish, among others.
Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles (flavonoids) and glucosinolates (plant chemicals), which help protect against cancer.
What is the healthiest cruciferous vegetable?
The healthiest cruciferous vegetable is cauliflower. The reason for this is that cauliflower contains more phytochemicals than broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale or cabbage, and the nutrients are better absorbed into the body. Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants called sulforaphanes. These help protect your cells against damage from free radicals (unstable molecules).
Free radicals are produced as a byproduct of normal metabolic activity. The good news is that sulforaphanes can be converted into other antioxidants which may have even greater anti-cancer effects. They also help prevent cancer by supporting the body’s immune system. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin K, folate, and vitamin C, all of which support the immune system and promote cell growth. It also contains more fiber than any other cruciferous vegetable. Cauliflower is a good source of calcium, magnesium and potassium, which help build strong bones and muscles. It also contains vitamin B6, an important nutrient for the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Cauliflower also contains choline, a B vitamin that is important for normal nerve function. Choline is also a natural pain reliever.
Is it safe to eat cruciferous vegetables every day?
Yes, it is safe to eat cruciferous vegetables every day. This includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, brussel sprouts, and bok choy. You should continue eating these foods even if you are taking supplements or herbal remedies.
There are two types of cruciferous vegetables: Brassicas (cabbages, broccoli, kale, cauliflower) and Cruciferae (mustard greens, arugula, chives, radishes).
You can also find them at the store as part of a salad mix or in a Chinese stir fry. They are also very common in cooking, especially in Asian dishes. The major phytonutrients in cruciferous vegetables are glucosinolates and indole-3-carbinol (I3C). The main glucosinolate found in broccoli is sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also has anticancer properties. Sulforaphane is converted into I3C by the enzyme myrosinase which is present in both the Brassicas and Cruciferae vegetables.
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December 8, 2021
How Big Should Tomato Seedlings Be Before Transplanting?
Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants to grow among gardeners of all experience levels. However, you may wonder, how big should tomato seedlings be before transplanting? It is important to know this in order to help your tomato plants thrive.
Under the right conditions, tomato plants will thrive and grow an abundance of fruit. Transplanting them at the right time is key to allowing them to successfully grow. If you do it too early, you risk your plant failing to grow properly.
What Is Transplanting?
In gardening, transplanting is the technique used for moving a plant from one location to another. The plant will be fully germinated or mature during the process of moving. The process can be done when moving a plant from a pot to a garden or moving it from one location in the garden to another.
There are several reasons why a person may transplant a plant. When buying a plant from a garden store, it is common to move the plant from the pot it came into a larger pot or a garden. People may also transplant a plant if the surrounding plants are diseased or have pests in order to protect it.
In addition, transplanting can help extend the growing season. Different plant species will react differently to transplanting, so it is important to do it with care and proper research.
When To Transplant Tomato Seedlings
When tomato seedlings are three to four inches tall and have their second set of leaves, they are ready to transplant. Anytime before this and they will likely be too fragile and not yet ready.
In addition, you will want to make sure the nighttime temperatures are at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is much lower than that, it will be too cold for your tomato seedlings.
Some gardeners will also choose to a second transplant of their tomato plants. This second transplant should be done when the tomatoes are six to ten inches tall. By doing a second transplant, you can help ensure your plant will have a good root system.
How To Transplant Tomato Plants
When transplanting tomato seedlings that are three to four inches tall to a new container, choose one that is deep. This will help the roots develop and create a strong plant. When planting, use the same soil you did when germinating them.
Before transplanting, water the seedlings as moist soil will cling to the roots and help the plant from drying out. Then, carefully lever the seedlings out of the soil and try to lift the plants by their leaves rather than the stem.
Once safely removed from their original pot, place them in the new, larger pot three inches apart from each other. Set the soil firmly around the plant, going all the way up to the first set of leaves if possible.
Lightly water the soil and keep your seedlings out of bright sunlight for a day or two. Use liquid fertilizer once a week as they grow.
They will generally need at least two weeks in their containers before you transfer them to your garden. Always plant tomato seedlings with care and never grab them by the stem.
Second Transplant
If you want to transplant your seedlings for a second time before planting them in the garden, wait until they are at least six to 10 inches tall. This will help ensure they have a healthy root system.
You can transfer them individually to half-gallon milk jugs or four- to six-inch-diameter pots. Transplant them just as you did the first time.
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Transplanting To The Garden
When transplanting your tomatoes to your garden, dig a hole in your garden bed that is a few inches deeper than the current depth of the pot the seedlings are in. Dig the holes at least a few inches apart to give them plenty of room to grow.
Carefully remove your plants from their container and transfer them to the garden bed. Cover the plant up with dirt, right till the first set of leaves if they are seedlings. Water your tomatoes right after moving them.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Tomatoes do best in well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun for the majority of daylight. They should receive at least six to eight hours of full sun a day in order for them to produce an abundance of fruit.
They do best in climates with temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. In addition, they should also receive one inch of water a week to allow them to grow healthy and strong.
They do best in soil that is slightly acidic, between 6.2 to 6.8. Since they strive for warmth, they are generally planted in late spring to early summer. They will also benefit from compost and fertilizer.
Tomatoes are generally harvested mid to late summer. Once you pick them, store them indoors which allows them to ripen more. They do best in cool temperatures, however, you don’t need to store them in the fridge.
FAQs
When should I transplant tomato seedlings?
Transplanting tomatoes is not something you should rush into. It is a delicate operation and one which requires experience to pull off successfully. The best time to plant tomatoes is when the soil has warmed up and the nights have become longer. Tomato seedlings should be planted into a potting mix or into the ground as soon as they sprout.
How do you transplant tomato seedlings?
You can transplant tomatoes either as a single plant or as a cluster of several plants. When you are transplanting your tomatoes, make sure they are well-established before you do so. Tomatoes grown from seed will take approximately three months to get into full production. It’s best to wait until after the first frost before you transplant. Transplanting tomatoes is a great way to extend their growing season.
The following are guidelines for when you should transplant your tomatoes: In spring: Start transplants outside in containers at least 2 weeks before last frost. Do not transplant when soil is frozen. In summer: If you are planting in the ground, wait until temperatures are consistently above 50°F. In fall: If you have had a long dry spell, it’s a good idea to transplant tomato seedlings into the ground now rather than waiting for next spring. You can also plant your tomatoes in containers and bring them inside when the weather starts getting cooler. Make sure you get them in before the first frost.
Transplanting your tomatoes is a relatively simple process. Here’s how to do it: Remove the seedling from its container and gently loosen the roots. Take care not to damage the root system. Place the seedling in a hole that is about twice as wide as the seedling. The bottom of the hole should be slightly below the level of the surrounding soil. Add soil until it is just above the top of the seedling’s stem. This will help the plant establish quickly.
How do I start a new tomato plant?
Tomatoes are easy to start from seed. You can either buy ready-made seeds or sow your own. For those who want to sow their own, it is best to buy a packet of tomato seeds which have been pre-germinated. These seeds will already be planted in a tray. You then take the tray and place it into a warm environment for about two weeks until the seeds start to germinate. After this period, you can plant them into a pot or directly into the ground.
How big should seedlings be before transplanting?
You should go with 4 inch-tall.
Plant the seedlings in fertile soil. Fertile soil is rich in nutrients, so it’s best for young plants. You can improve the soil by adding some fertilizer, compost, peat moss or other organic material. The soil should be moist but not wet. Water your seedlings regularly.
The best time to plant is when the soil is warm, dry and well-drained. Seedlings should be started in flats, pots or cell packs (a small flat container with individual cells that can be used for a single plant) and placed into larger containers as they grow. It’s important to avoid transplant shock by gradually exposing young plants to the outside world. You don’t have to expose them to full sunlight.
Knowing How Big Should Tomato Seedlings Be Before Transplanting
Transplanting tomato seedlings is an important process in their development. It helps with the growth of the stems to promote a strong, healthy plant.
When transplanting your tomato seedlings, wait until they are at least three to four inches tall and have their second set of leaves. In addition, you can also transport them again when they are six to ten inches tall to help further develop their roots.
Transplanting should always be done with care and you should never hold them by the stems. Instead, it is better to grab them by the leaves. Then, when planting them as seedlings, you can cover them with soil all the way up to the first set of leaves to help them grow.
Do you have any questions on how big should tomato seedlings be before transplanting? If so, please ask any questions regarding transplanting your tomato seedlings and growing tomato plants in the comment section below.
December 8, 2021
The Lowest Temperature For Tomatoes And Peppers
Every gardener should be aware of the lowest temperature for tomatoes and peppers to save them before the frost season begins.
Gardening is not for the faint-hearted; sometimes it’s hard, sometimes it’s smooth. This is true more so when you think about the right time to plant your crop, especially if it does not do well in frost.
Suppose you have plenty of decent gardening and realize that the weather is threatening with an early frost you have to protect it. Tomatoes and peppers are some of the crops that do not do well in the winter season. You have to harvest them before the frost falls and try to ripen them indoors. You can save your plants right in the garden by building a shade over them to extend the gardening season.
If you are trying to grow tomatoes, eggplant, or peppers, it is essential to learn what is the lowest temperature these plants can take. In this article, we will look at both the lowest and the highest temperatures that these plants are able to survive under.
Lowest Temperatures For Tomatoes And Peppers
According to the USDA Research Service, tomatoes show problems when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool nighttime temperatures interfere with the tomato’s ability to convert the sunlight into sugars via a process known as photosynthesis.
Low temperatures also reduce pollen production in tomatoes and peppers, resulting in less fruit production or fruits deformation. You may also experience scars and cracks on the bottom end of your fruit that occur during the night when temperatures drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Protecting Your Tomatoes And Peppers From The Lowest Temperatures
To protect your tomato and pepper plants from frost, you will need two things – sturdy garden stakes or tomato cages and bubble wrap. The garden stakes or tomato cages will form the structure that will allow you to wrap the bubble wrap around, protecting your plants.
Ensure that your bubble wrap is firm so that it doesn’t cause a mess of your tomato and pepper plants. Choose a study structure long enough to cover your tomato plant’s height. You can install the cage once you plant or over the existing plants towards the end of the season with ease.
Once you have the tomato cage over the plant, wrap the bubble wrap around the cage and use duct tape to secure it in place. Wrap it around the cage, starting from the ground level all the way up to a few inches above the top of the plant. Ensure that you cover the top of the plant as well.
The sturdy structure and bubble wrap are enough to protect your plants until their harvest time. But to avoid all the hassle, ensure that you plant your tomatoes and peppers at the right time. If you realize that you are late, it is essential to look for varieties that easily stand lower temperatures.
Germination And Growing Temperatures For Tomatoes And Peppers
Can pepper plants survive frost? The minimum temperature to germinate and grow tomatoes and peppers is at least 15 degrees Centigrade. However, germination will happen faster when the temperature is above 20 to 24 degrees centigrade.
The pepper temperature tolerance for nighttime weather is around 13.5 degrees centigrade. However, the daytime temperature should not fall below 15 degrees Centigrade for a week or more. If this happens, you will get stunted crops.
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If the nighttime temperatures drop below 13.5 degrees centigrade, a few things go wrong. Pollen fails to develop, and flowers that open the following morning do not set fruit.
That said, the ideal temperature for growing tomatoes and peppers should range between 20 degrees and 24 degrees centigrade.
We can now clearly answer the question ‘can peppers survive frost’ from the above information.
Tomato Varieties For Cooler Climates
Generally, tomatoes require a favorable temperature between 15 degrees to 32 degrees Centigrade to survive. However, there are specific tomato varieties purposely bred for cooler climates with the ability to tolerate temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The best choices for such weather are short to mid-season tomatoes.
These tomatoes set fruit in cooler temperatures and reach maturity in the shortest number of days, around 52 to 70 days. Some hybrid examples include:
- Celebrity
- Golden nugget
- Subarctic plenty tomato
- Husky gold
- Orange pixie
- Oregon spring
- Siletz
- Some heirloom varieties include
- Legend
- Bush beefsteak
- Manitoba
- Kimberly
- New Yorker
- Glacier
- Gregori’s Altai
- Galina
- Grushovka
Tomato Varieties For Hot Regions
When we talk about the lowest temperatures for tomatoes and peppers, it would be good to also talk about the right tomatoes for the hot regions.
Temperatures that rise above 27 degrees centigrade, cause both tomatoes and peppers to suffer from too much heat. When they hit 32 degrees centigrade, the fruits will fail to set, and you will lose productivity on your plants. Countries or regions that enjoy a hot climate pushes tomato and pepper farmers to grow them under shade.
The heat-tolerant varieties that you can grow in these regions include:
- Sunbeam
- Bella Rosa
- Florida
- Sunny Bell
- Big beef
- Mountain crest
- Porter
- Spitfire
- Solar fire
- Fourth of July
- Heatwave
- Homestead
- Super fantastic
- Sunchaser
- Sweet 100
- Arkansas traveler
- Green zebra
So How Do You Solve The Temperature Problem In Tomatoes And Peppers
Although there is not much you can do about a change of temperatures, especially these days of climate change; you can try a few remedies
First, don’t plant your peppers and tomatoes in the wrong season
Second, ensure the soil is at the proper temperatures when growing.
Besides planting cold-hardy tomato varieties, you can also cover your peppers and tomatoes with a structure to keep the fruit warm until it matures and ripens.
Dark plastic coverings raise the temperatures by 5 to 10 degrees, while clear plastic coverings warm the tomatoes by up to 20 degrees. Using either of the coverings is enough to save your tomatoes and pepper crop
FAQs
Can tomatoes handle 40 degree weather?
Yes, tomatoes can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
What are the effects of low temperature on tomatoes?
The effect of low temperature on tomatoes is to increase the amount of water in the fruit and to slow down growth. This means that the tomato will be less firm and more juicy, but not necessarily smaller.
What is the lowest temperature peppers can tolerate?
In terms of their growing environment, I would say that they could tolerate at least -10°C. I live in a temperate climate. They are not as cold tolerant as some other fruits and vegetables though.
But they are pretty sensitive to frost. Make sure you have adequate drainage and that your soil isn’t too wet.
Peppers are extremely sensitive to low temperatures. In general, they cannot be stored in the refrigerator below 40°F. When peppers are stored at temperatures above 60°F, they lose their flavor, color, and texture and may not ripen properly.
When can I put my pepper plants outside?
If you live in an area where the temperature is not expected to drop below freezing for at least two weeks, then it’s okay to put your pepper plants out.
Most peppers will be fine to plant outside after all danger of frost is over. You can start them in the greenhouse in late spring or early fall if you want them to flower indoors first. Some varieties may not like being transplanted and may bolt. If this happens, you can transplant them again later when they are larger and less likely to bolt.
Can peppers survive a light frost?
Yes, most likely. The hardiest of the common pepper varieties are the Bells, which can handle down to -7°C (-20°F). The sweet peppers should also be able to survive, but they will need to have been grown under cover or protected from the wind, and the temperature inside will need to be kept well above freezing, say 12-15°C (54-59°F).
Can tomatoes grow in cold weather?
The ideal temperature for growing tomatoes is around 60 degrees. Cold weather slows down growth, which can result in stunted fruit. In milder climates, tomatoes can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees, but they will not grow and may even die.
How do tomatoes grow?
This plant’s life cycle includes its vegetative (growing) and reproductive (fruiting) stages.
Vegetative growth occurs in the spring and summer months. Reproductive growth occurs in the fall and winter months. The second is by looking at a plant’s growing season, which begins in spring and ends in fall. The growing season refers to the time that a plant is actively growing and producing fruit. This is the same as your growing season, which is determined by the length of the day. If your growing season is long, you can expect your tomato plants to produce fruit in the fall. If your growing season is short, your plants will not produce fruit until spring. Tomatoes have a long growing season. The growing season is determined by the length of the day. If the length of the day is shorter than 12 hours, the growing season is shorter. If the length of the day is 12 hours or longer, the growing season is longer.
Conclusion
Temperature change is one of the adverse effects on plants that affect their health and productivity. It is critical to prevent your crop from both the hot and cold weather extremes that face all gardeners at different times of the year.
All the best as you work to overcome climate change that could be detrimental to your crop.
December 8, 2021
How To Cook Pole Beans From The Garden
Learning how to cook pole beans from the garden is an added advantage to help you enjoy more beans fresh from your garden.
Pole beans is another name used for the large green beans. You can serve them with anything you usually have with green beans. Bacon, chopped onions, chicken broth, and seasonings are some of the things that give these beans a great flavor.
Pole beans are a vigorous climber that time around the support provided growing to a height of about 6 feet or more. Picked when Young pole beans make a nutritious snack straight from the Vine. They can be cooked and served as a side dish.
How To Cook Pole Beans From The Garden
To get the best results when you cook your pole beans, it is best to harvest them when the pods are plump. That should be before the skin begins to toughen or before tiny beans can be barely seen through the pod.
Once you harvest, wash your beans in cold running water to remove any dirt or insects. Trim both ends with a knife or snap them by hand to remove the sharp edges. Fresh beans easily snap, making them easy to work with. Cut your beans into the desired size. Some people love to cook the small tender ones whole, while larger sizes can be cut into two sections.
How To Cook Different Pole Beans Recipes
There are many ways you can cook pole beans, depending on where you are from. Here are recipes you can try at home
Garlic Pole Beans
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serves: 4 to 6 people
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds of pole beans with their ends snapped off
- 4 cloves of garlic thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Boil a large pot of salted water and Blanche the beans for 4 to 5 minutes until they are slightly tender but still bright green. Don’t overcook them, as you will want them to be a little crunchy.
2. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl where are you place the beans; once you drain the boiling water full stop, this stops them from cooking. When completely cooled, remove them from water and drain well. If you are preparing them ahead of time and sure that you cover and refrigerate them until ready to serve
3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 to 45 seconds. Add your pole beans to the skillet and toast with tongues. Continue tossing till the beans are warm enough. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
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Southern-Style Pole Beans
Fresh pole beans cooked slowly with a bit of smoky bacon bring back great memories for family dinners. These southern-style pole beans are a tradition in many homes.
Ingredients
- 3 slices of bacon cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 1/2 pounds of cool beans trimmed and snapped at the edges, and sliced into 2-inch lengths
- 1/4 cup of garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
1. Cook your bacon pieces in a heavy-bottomed pan until ready. Remove the bacon from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain. Set them aside.
2. Add the pole beans to the pan and cook on medium heat; keep cooking until the beans turn bright green.
3. Carefully pour in the stock adding your garlic powder, salt, and pepper together all the ingredients to incorporate had your bacon pieces back to the pot with beans.
4. Turn the fire to low heat, cover the beans with a lead and cook for about 1 hour until the beans are tender, stirring every 15 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning and serve immediately.
Smokey Pole Beans And Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 3 and 3/4 tbsp of kosher salt
- 1 1/2 pounds of fresh pole beans or Romania beans snapped in the edges and cut into 3 to 4 inches
- 3 bacon slices cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp spoon of canola oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-pint cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Put 8 cups of water and 3 tablespoons of salt and bring it to a boil in a large pot on medium-high heat.
2. Add your pole beans and cook them until almost tender for at least 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Drain and rinse them with cold water
4. Cook your bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat stirring occasionally until crisp for about 12 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on a plate lined with a paper towel.
5. Save the dripping in the skillet and add cumin and pepper to it. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly for 30 seconds. Add your drained beans and 1/2 teaspoon of salt gently to coat. Increase the heat to high and keep cooking and stirring occasionally until the beans begin to char for about 5 minutes. Spill the beans into a bowl but do not wipe the skillet.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-high and add oil swirling the skillet to coat it. Add garlic tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and the remaining quarter teaspoon of salt. Cook them for at least 3 to 4 minutes, often stirring until tomatoes begin to burst. Spoon the mixture over the beans and sprinkle with the reserved bacon ready to serve.
The many other recipes you can research online to learn how to cook pole beans from your garden
How To Cook Pole Beans From The Garden In Different Methods
How To Cook Pole Beans On The Stove
One of the easiest cooking options is to cook pole beans on the stove. Boil the pole beans covered in an amount of boiling salted water until crisp-tender. For whole pole beans, it will take at least 10 to 15 minutes while sliced ones take 5 to 10 minutes. To be able to tell that you are pole beans are ready bite into one of the bins before your suggested timing and see if it is slightly crunchy.
Cooking For Beans In The Microwave
Microwaved whole beans are the easiest and quickest method of cooking these beans. To do so please your pole beans in a casserole dish with two tablespoons of water. Microwave them while covered on 100% power until they’re crisp-tender. When cooking them whole, cook them for at least 8 to 12 minutes and if you cut them into pieces, cook time for 7 to 10 minutes.
Steaming Pole Beans
You can try steaming your pole beans for a low-calorie vegetable side dish. Place a steamer basket in a large skillet adding water to just below the bottom of the steamer basket full stop bring water to boiling and add your pole beans. Cook them whole or cut for about 10 to 18 minutes until crisp-tender.
How To Saute Pole Beans
Another easy way to cook your pole beans is to saute them. Some sauteed pole bean recipes require that you blanch them first. To saute your beans heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your beans and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally. Season them with 1/2 a teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Remove them from heat.
FAQs
How do you prepare fresh picked pole beans?
I boil the beans for about 5 minutes and then drain them, spread them out on a baking sheet (lined with foil if they will be left overnight) and let them dry out completely. Then I put them in my dehydrator at 110 degrees F for about 12 hours.
How do you cook pole beans?
Pole beans are the same as green beans, but they have a longer stem. The seeds and some of the stem are removed before cooking, leaving a long slender bean with a string attached to one end. They are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C. They are also called French beans because they were originally cultivated in France. You can find them year round, but they are in peak season during the summer months.
Pole beans can be cooked in a variety of ways. Some recipes call for blanching the beans, which means dipping them in boiling water for a short time and then quickly plunging them into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. Some recipes also call for steaming. Steaming is a method of cooking in which the beans are placed in a covered container and steamed in boiling water. Steaming results in a slightly firmer texture than blanching. If you are cooking green beans in a microwave, you should use the “cook” setting instead of the “steam” setting. The “cook” setting does not involve steam.
How long do I boil my garden pole beans?
If you’re boiling them just for eating, you can go with a short boil. They will be tender enough to eat after about 10 minutes.
But if you’re boiling them for canning, then they should boil for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the sugar to dissolve in the water and make the beans sweet and tender. You want the beans to be a little firm, not mushy. You could also try soaking them overnight or for several hours before cooking. This would also help the beans to absorb the sugar from the water.
How do you soften pole beans?
You can soak the beans overnight. Put them in a large pot with some water and let them sit for a while. Drain and rinse them well. Next day, Iput them in a pressure cooker with some water, add some salt, and cook them at high pressure for about 15 minutes. Then let them cool off and drain them.
Do you have to soak beans before cooking them?
Beans need to be soaked to soften the outer skins. If you soak them for too long, they will start to ferment and lose their flavor. The goal is to cook them in about 5-10 minutes. Soak the beans overnight or for at least 8 hours.
She people think that if you are soaking them to reduce gas in the stomach, they will be more digestible, but if you are using them as a filler for recipes, it won’t matter if they haven’t been soaked.
What is the quick soak method for beans?
In a pot of water, add beans and let soak overnight. The next day, drain off the soaking water and rinse the beans. Now add them to a pressure cooker or other large pot, add enough cold water to cover the beans by about 2 inches, bring to a boil, and then turn the heat down to low. Cook at low pressure for 1 hour 15 minutes (15 psi). Then turn the heat back up to high and cook for 10 minutes more.
Conclusion
You can not run out of ideas on how to cook pole beans from the garden. These beans are broader and flatter in appearance than regular green beans, and their texture and flavor stand out. This makes them a preference for many people who flock to the organic farmers’ market to buy them.
December 8, 2021