Grower Today

Everything about Plant Nutrients and Pest Control for Plants

Author: Eunice

  • Best Plants For Sandy Soils

    Best Plants For Sandy Soils

    Do you live in an area with lots of sandy soil and you’re having problems growing with sandy soil? Then you should consider some of the best plants for sandy soils.

    Most times, sandy soil might be difficult to work with, but don’t lose all hope. Rather than struggling with nature for plants that don’t wish to live where they’ve been planted, you can simply select the appropriate plants that suit that particular soil type.

    The key to successfully working with sandy soil is to recognize and understand the properties of this soil type. Also, choosing the right plants that have adapted and flourished in sandy soil is another key to successfully planting in this soil.

    So, let’s look into some of the best plants for sandy soils.

    Sandy Soil Plants

    A lot of plants tend to perform poorly in sandy soil conditions. This is mainly due to the excessive porous medium that doesn’t have good water and nutrient holding capacity for plants to thrive well.

    Gardeners that tend to work with sandy soil often put in extra effort to amend their garden bed with organic materials. This is to try and create a more suitable environment for a wider variety of plants.

    However, in spite of these less reputable features, sandy soil still have some of its advantages. We have advantages such as well draining capacities, ease to dig in, as well as less vulnerability to bacterial and fungal diseases. But just a few plant species are adapted to this soil compared to other soil types.

    Sandy Soil Plants

    Another nice advantage of sandy soil is that it’s liable to easily warm up during springtime compared to other soil. Now, this can encourage new plant life earlier in the season.

    This soil is also pretty easy to amend compared to clay soil. Plants that end up thriving with sandy soil conditions are pretty attractive and don’t require so much maintenance.

    Plants That Grow Well In Sandy Soil

    If sandy soil is predominant in your area and you wish to plant on this soil, then you should get to know some of the best plants that will thrive in sandy soils.

    In fact, you may only need to amend a few garden beds to accommodate and you may not require so much works on the rest of your garden. Alternatively, you can simply accept your sandy soil completely by making a low-maintenance garden and embrace the properties it offers.

    You can find a wide range of plants that can flourish in sandy soil. But if you eventually choose to amend most of your garden, you can still find one or two plants on this list that you can benefit from growing in sandy soil.

    So here are some best plants that tend to grow in sandy soils:

    List Of Vegetables That Flourish In Sandy Soil

    1. Radishes

    Radishes have tap roots that require easy penetration into the ground. Hence, the loose sandy soil is pretty workable compared to clay soil that tends to form balls or mass.

    1. Carrots

    The tap roots carrot have requires for their roots to easily penetrate the ground for them grow well. This means carrots require good depth and this makes sandy soil an ideal medium for growing carrots. On the other hand, other soil such as clay soil that tends to form balls or mass of soil can slow down the growth of carrot root development.

    1. Potatoes

    Potatoes will also do well in sandy soil. This is thanks to the acidic soil pH balance of sandy soil that favors potatoes. The acidic nature of sandy soil knocks out the likelihood of scab (a disease that is capable of infesting a whole crop of potatoes).

    1. Cucumber

    Cucumber requires well-draining soil to flourish. Hence, sandy soil is ideal for cucumbers. However, you will need to put extra effort into supplying enough water and nutrients for your cucumber to grow well.

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    List Of Ground-covers That Flourish In Sandy Soil

    1. Sedum

    Sedum plants are succulent tiny ground-covers that make an amazing garden plant. It is a hardy plant that can flourish with poor soil, less water, and intense sun or heat.

    1. Artemisia

    Artemisia is a ground-cover crop and low-growing perennial that can flourish in sandy soil. Even though it doesn’t flower, its leaves are finely cut and amazingly soft to touch. An amazing feature is when you brush one of the leaves; it will softly release a delicious fragrance.

    1. Lavender

    Lavender can also thrive in sandy soil and drought-like conditions. This plant requires high drainage which can be provided sandy soils.

    List Of Flowering Shrubs That Flourish In Sandy Soil

    1. Butterfly Bush

    Butterfly bush is incredibly adaptable to any type of soil and this includes sandy soil. The butterfly bush is an attractive and excellent option for a flowering shrub.

    Butterfly Bush

    1. Red Choke-berry

    This flowering shrub is from the rose family and is also adaptable to any type of soil such as sandy soil. it is a multi-stemmed shrub that ranges from 6 to 10 feet when fully matured.

    Annual & Bulb That Flourish In Sandy Soil

    1. Giant Allium

    Giant allium also known as giant onion is a purple flower plant that will also do well in sandy soil. Their flower produces a showstopper large stalk tower of about three to four feet tall.

    1. Daylilies

    Daylilies flowering plants will flourish in moist and yet well-draining soil such as sandy soil. If planted in the right spot, this flower can flower or bloom for years even with little care.

    1. Sweet Alyssum

    The sweet alyssum plant can grow well in sandy soil. This plant generates a lovely pink, white, or purple bloom.

    Sweet Alyssum

    FAQ’s

    What plant grows best in sandy soil?

    There are many different plants that do well on sand soil. The best plants to grow in this type of soil are grasses, succulents, and plants with shallow roots.

    Why do most plants not grow well in sandy soil?

    There are a number of reasons, but the two primary ones are: Sandy soil is light-permeable. If the soil is dry, or if it has a lot of air pockets, it’s not going to hold water. Water will leach out of the soil. The soil is compacted. Sand particles are small and don’t have much weight. They pack together tightly.

    Soil that is compacted has very little pore space and can’t hold water. If you put your finger in the top 6 inches of a sand bed, you won’t be able to see your finger. You can feel the sand when you dig it up, but you can’t see it.

    How can sandy soil be improved?

    Sandy soils are often very infertile and require the use of soil amendments. They are also often very dry and lacking in organic matter. 

    This means that sand must be replaced with a more porous soil or amended to improve its fertility. Improving sandy soils is more difficult than improving clay soils because the latter contain much more organic matter.

    A way to improve the quality of sandy soils is to add organic matter. This will improve the structure of the soil and increase its water-holding capacity. It will also help the soil to retain moisture and allow air to reach the roots of plants, which helps them to grow. Organic matter also makes the soil more friable, which means it becomes easier to work and dig. To amend sand, it is necessary to add organic matter. There are many types of organic matter that can be used, and they are listed below.   Animal manures Animal manure is a good source of organic matter and nutrients for sandy soils.

    What is the pH of sandy soil?

    In general, the pH will be between 5.8 and 6.3.

    Does sandy soil retain water?

    Sandy soil is a poor conductor of moisture. This means that the top layer of sand will not allow moisture to penetrate deep enough into the soil to be retained and used by plants.

    Best Plants For Sandy Soils: Conclusion

    Sandy soil may be a difficult plant to work with. But if you can study and understand the strength and weaknesses and properly choose the appropriate plants to fit your garden, your plants can live happily and you can always succeed in your garden.

    It is crucial you identify and understand the best type of plants that will grow well in sandy soils. This way, you will reduce the stress of struggling with a plant that does not want to live there.

    Getting to know the best plants for sandy soils will allow you to choose the right plants that will fit your soil type. Then you can relax and enjoy a great-looking garden with very little maintenance.

  • How Do They Grow Baby Carrots?

    How Do They Grow Baby Carrots?

    Ever wondered how do they grow baby carrots? Have you ever wondered if baby carrots are big carrots that have been cut into smaller pieces or if they are simply grown as baby carrots? If you’re interested in growing the real baby carrots yourself, we are all about that in this post.

    Baby carrots are not your regular kind of carrots. They are one of the most popular types of root vegetables sold in the United States. Baby carrots can be incorporated in various dishes as well as high-end restaurants. They are even part of our staples and are used in party trays, crudités plates, as well as other cuts as side dishes.

    Most parents love to make use of them because of their convenience to make use of these baby carrots in their kid’s food. In fact, most kids love these baby carrots in their food because they are sweet and fun to eat.

    So, get the chance to discover how they grow the real grow baby carrots so you can as well benefit from this great-tasting carrot.

    Baby Carrots

    Baby carrots are the miniature version of full-size carrots that are around 3 to 4 inches long. There are two types of baby carrots. We have the immature carrots that are picked when they are still small in size. Then we have the miniature types which are the true baby carrot that appears small even when matured.

    The concept of baby carrots actually came from a farmer in California named Mike Yurosek. His idea was to grow and sell carrots that were shaped into baby carrots that will be harvested and ready for snack consumption.

    The new shape of the baby carrot has given the carrot a new face to it and it has helped increase consumption per person. Back in 2006, almost all baby carrots were processed and shipped outside California to all parts of the country.

    Baby Carrots

    A lot of grocery stores often sell and pack baby carrots that are manufactured from bigger carrots and they peel and cut them into smaller sizes. So, most times, those aren’t the real baby carrots. You can actually pinpoint the carrots that are been harvested before maturity because they still have that greenery attached to them.

    Another confusing part is that certain carrot varieties are grown to only attain 3 to 4 inches. They are simply miniature carrots grown in container gardens or they are the ones that have rocky soil that a taproot can’t make an appearance easily.

    Read more about Growing Heirloom Tomatoes

    How Are Baby Carrots Grown?

    Carrots generally are easy to grow and they grow fast. There are different types of carrot varieties that are available in various colors and lengths. All of these carrot varieties can be grown and harvested while they are young and slender. Then some carrots varieties are baby-like and naturally petite.

    To grow baby carrots, you can obtain seeds that are smaller varieties of carrots. Some special cultivars have been bred to reach the baby stage. Here are some baby carrots varieties you can grow.

    • Paris market
    • Little fingers
    • Babette
    • Chantenay
    • Thumbelina
    • Amsterdam forcing

    So, below are ways to grow baby carrots appropriately.

    How Do Baby Carrots Grow?

    You can grow baby carrots in garden beds, raised bed gardens, and even containers. Plant your carrots 2 to 3 months before your region’s first expected frost. The carrots can take about 70 to 80 days to attain maturity. So, follow these guidelines to successfully grow baby carrots:

    1.    Plant Site Preparation

    If you’re planting in containers, select a wood pot or clay pot that has drainage holes. The container should be about 10 inches wide and 10 inches deep. Then choose your soil, preferably loamy or sandy soil. Add compost to assist in improving the soil quality.

    If you will be planting in your outdoor garden, dig up the area you will be planting on. Loosen the soil up to 8 inches deep and break up any sticky clump. Ensure there are no rocks or stones in your planting area as these can obstruct the growing process.

    2.    Seed Sowing

    The seeds should be planted about ¼ inches deep. Once they’ve grown about 2 inches in length, you should thin them to give them adequate room to grow underground. Ensure the seedlings are 1 inch apart and if you’re planting in rows, they should be 6 inches apart.

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    3.    Planting Radishes As Companion Plants

    If you wish to further maximize your garden performance, you can grow radishes in between your carrots. Radishes tend to grow fast. Therefore, you can harvest them long before thinning the seedlings of your carrots.

    4.    Watering

    Once you’ve sown your seeds, gentle watering is required so you don’t displace the seeds. The seeds require moisture for about 2 to 3 weeks or until they have germinated their first set of true leaves. The seed sprouting may take a while; just ensure you keep them moist so they can germinate at the right time.

    However, ensure you don’t over-water or underwater them because this can make them not grow well. Just give them the right amount of watering so they can flourish.

    5.    Mulch

    Mulching the upper layer of the soil is also a good idea. This will reduce water evaporation. Hence, reduce your need for watering your baby carrot plants.

    Harvesting Baby Carrots

    The different varieties of baby carrots should be ready for harvest in about 55 to 65 days from the planting date. But for matured carrots, it can take about 75 days or more to be ready for harvest. Once they are around half-inch in diameter, you can pull the baby carrots out from the ground.

    Harvesting Baby Carrots

    You can as well pull one to see if that’s the size you want before pulling out the others.

    FAQ’s

    Do baby carrots occur naturally?

    Yes, baby carrots are grown from seed. You can find them in grocery stores and farmers markets. They are a nice addition to a salad or on their own.

    Are baby carrots as healthy as regular carrots?

    Baby carrots are a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a convenient, easy-to-eat snack. The nutritional value of baby carrots is comparable to that of regular carrots. Both contain vitamin A, folate, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Baby carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is necessary for good vision, bone development, and immune function. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to blindness, poor growth, and susceptibility to infections. They also contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps protect the body against cancer. One cup of raw baby carrots provides more than 50 percent of the daily value of vitamin A, more than 50 percent of the daily value of vitamin C, and more than 10 percent of the daily value of vitamin K. They also contain fiber, potassium, folate, and manganese. Baby carrots are a great option for vegans, vegetarians, and people who want to avoid gluten. They’re also an excellent choice for children who don’t like the texture of regular carrots. They’re easier to chew and easier on teeth.

    Where do baby carrots grow?

    The best place to grow baby carrots is in a garden. The reason for this is that the soil is loose and easy to work with and the plants are not restricted by a pot or container. However, if you have no garden space then the next best thing is growing them in trays filled with rich, loose compost.

    The ideal growing environment for baby carrots is the same as for any other vegetable – a sunny spot with plenty of good, well-drained soil. A raised bed works very well as it allows you to easily remove weeds and pests and keep the soil in a good condition. The soil should be loamy, fertile, and well-drained. You can use any composted manure, but you will need to ensure that you have enough nutrients. The best way to do this is by adding fertiliser when the plant is young. If you are growing your baby carrots in a container then you should add a fertiliser at the beginning of the growing season.

    How long does baby carrots take to grow?

    Baby carrots can take up to three weeks to grow. They require a warm, bright environment with good air circulation and proper soil. They also need to be harvested regularly so that they do not become tough and stringy. They are also grown in deep beds of compost or leaf mold to prevent soil from drying out.
    Carrots are one of the most popular vegetables grown in home gardens and farmers’ markets around the world.

    How Do They Grow Baby Carrots: Final Say

    How baby carrots grow is not so difficult. Baby carrots tend to grow fast and are pretty easy to grow. They can be grown for various reasons such as snacking, salads, or even add to your favorite stew.

    Follow our guidelines on how to successfully grow baby carrots so you can enjoy this great-tasting veg.

  • How Far Apart Should Lettuce Be Planted?

    How Far Apart Should Lettuce Be Planted?

    The crispy, green, and lush lettuce is one of the most loved and widely grown salads vegetables grown in the United States. Spacing your lettuce the right way is crucial for you to enjoy a great crop yield. So, how far apart should our lettuce be planted?

    Lettuce is a cool-weathered crop that grows easily in the right conditions. It is one of most growers’ favorite garden greens that has a great taste and offers great Vitamin content (especially Vitamin A).

    We will be looking at how far apart your lettuce should be planted. We will also be giving you great guidelines for growing lettuce in your garden so you can enjoy these great-tasting greens.

    Growing Lettuce

    Lettuce is an amazing vegetable to add to your vegetable home garden. You can always enjoy your salad bowl full of this crispy, green, and tasty lettuce available right in the comfort of your home.

    Lettuce is an easy-to-grow plant that will keep producing for a long time. You can start to enjoy baby green lettuce harvest around a month from seedling then full head in about two months or even less.

    The plant isn’t so demanding so far you keep it watered appropriately. Lettuce will grow optimally in containers as well as raised beds. Therefore, this makes lettuce perfect for a small spaced garden.

    Growing Lettuce

    Ideally, lettuce is best grown in spring and fall. It should be planted two weeks before frost. Then in fall, you should begin seed sowing again six weeks to eight weeks before your region’s fall frost.

    How Far Apart Should Lettuce Be Planted?

    How far apart your lettuce should be planted will mainly depend on the lettuce variety you’re growing.

    For instance, the loose-leaf lettuce variety can be grown closely or tightly. Heading lettuce on the other hand requires some space.

    When you start by transplanting lettuce from indoor, it makes it easier to space them. Then planting outdoors from seeds is easier to sprinkle the seeds and thin them later.

    So, let’s look at the spacing requirements for butter lettuce, loose-leaf lettuce, and crisphead lettuce. We will also look at how far apart lettuce should be planted container gardening and hydroponics garden.

    How To Plant Lettuce: Spacing Requirements Tips

    Here are some spacing requirement tips for growing some lettuce varieties as well as container and hydroponics garden:

    1.    Loose-leaf Lettuce

    For transplanting, how far apart your loose-leaf lettuce should be planted should be 2 to 4 inches. If you’re planting in rows, you can plant them 1 inch apart and the rows should be 8 to 10 inches intervals. A general guideline for planting lettuce in a row is 10 plants per foot.

    Loose-leaf Lettuce

    Most times, growers prefer not to thin loose-lettuce. They are usually picked or harvested while they’re young. They are also harvested several times in one season and this limits their chance of fungus or mold infestation.

    2.    Butter Lettuce

    If you give butter lettuce variety adequate space, they will tend to give rise to a semi-firm head. Butter lettuce can as well be tightly packed just like loose-leaf lettuce. Or you can simply space them out to give them a good chance to grow a semi-firm head and to grow larger.

    If you wish to achieve a bigger head, space them 6 to 8 inches apart. Row planting should be thinned out into 6 inches then space these rows at 10 to 18 intervals.

    3.    Crisphead Lettuce

    The crisphead lettuce variety accommodates more space and they may be the most difficult variety to grow. This lettuce variety requires more care so they can produce that firm and mild-tasting heads you see on grocery store shelves.

    Crisphead lettuce variety should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart. However, the Romaine variety that tends to grow tall heads can be spaced as close as 6 inches apart. Row planting should be spaced 6 to 12 inches apart in rows at 18 inches intervals.

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    4.    Container Gardening Space Requirement

    A lot of growers that grow lettuce in containers have grown them very closely and overlooked spacing suggestions with success.

    The ability to closely pack lettuce makes it even more ideal to be grown in containers. When you harvest the outer leaves of butter lettuce and loose-leaf lettuce varieties in your containers, the plant tends to continually produce more leaves from the central crown.

    Therefore, this attribute or feature permits us to continue harvesting all season long. Also, doing this allows you to create more room for new leaves to grow.

    5.    Hydroponics Garden Lettuce Space Requirement

    Some lettuce varieties cultivated in various hydroponic systems have been spaced closer to each other. In hydroponic lettuce, their root does not require nutrient competition compared to growing them traditionally. Hence, they don’t need the same amount of space as growing lettuce traditionally outdoors.

    The crisphead varieties can be grown as close as 4 inches apart in a hydroponic garden.

    Guidelines On Planting Lettuce

    Follow these guidelines to plant your lettuce:

    • To plant lettuce from seeds, sow them ¼ to ½ inch deep. Seeds aren’t sown too deep because they require light to grow. The ideal temperature for seeds germination is around 40 F. However, the ideal growing temperatures are between 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the leaves have 3 to 4 true leaves, they can be thinned.

    • If you’re transplanting, the transplant should have 4 to 6 mature leaves. The root system should also be developed before transplanting.
    • Ensure you water thoroughly after planting. Make sure you always water lettuce sparingly and frequently. Your aim is to maintain moist soil. Always avoid too much watering because overwatering can lead to root rot, diseases, and stunted growth.
    • Once it’s 3 weeks of transplanting, you should supply fertilizer to your plant soil. Lettuce soil thrives well in high organic components. Use adequate compost and a steady supply of nitrogen so it can grow well.

    FAQ’s

    Can lettuce be grown in containers?

    Yes, it can. There are many different varieties of lettuce that can be grown indoors. Check out some of the many varieties of lettuce that are available online. If you are growing indoors, I would recommend choosing a variety of lettuce that is harvested when its head is still small (4-5 inches). This will allow the plant to continue to grow and produce leaves, but not so much that they get too big and unappealing.

    Does lettuce need a lot of water?

    Lettuce is a very easy crop to grow. It doesn’t need a lot of water, and you can grow it in almost any soil, including sand. It grows fast and reaches maturity within about 60 days. The lettuce that I grow in my garden are loose-leaf varieties. These lettuces do not form heads, so they will continue to grow and produce leaves even when the main head is harvested.

    What’s the best time to plant lettuce?

    Lettuce should be planted in cool weather. This will give it a good chance of survival. It will do well with temperatures around 45 degrees F. I recommend planting it in mid-spring, and in mid-fall.

    What type of soil does lettuce need?

    Lettuce is a cool-season crop and thrives in soils with good drainage. It can be grown in sandy, clay, loam, or peaty soils as long as they are not compacted. Lettuce requires good air circulation around the roots, but it will tolerate light shade. To keep the roots moist, water regularly.

    How long does it take for lettuce to germinate?

    According to the University of California, you should expect to see lettuce sprouting around 5-7 days after the seed is planted.

    How Far Apart Should Lettuce Be Planted: Conclusion

    Lettuce is great-tasting veg that is pretty easy to grow. Ensure you follow our tips on how far apart your lettuce should be planted so you can enjoy some crispy great tasting lettuce.

  • Growing Crooked Neck Squash

    Growing Crooked Neck Squash

    Crooked neck squash is a type of summer squash that would be a great addition to your garden. It’s so easy growing crooked neck squash and you can enjoy some nice flavorful squash dishes from it. They can be used for both raw and cooking applications.

    This squash is a warm-season vegetable that grows so easily and fast. It is also a very prolific summer squash plant.

    In this article, we are going to be looking at growing crooked neck squash. We will as well look into commencing crooked squash from seeds or seedlings, the right time to plant this squash, and many more. So let’s begin.

    Crookneck Squash

    Crooked neck squash is also known as yellow squash because of its yellow-skinned nature. It is botanically a member of Cucurbita pepo. From the name ‘crooked’ we can see the shape of the neck is bent or curved. The shape can somehow be compared to a bottle shape. The flesh of this summer squash may be smooth or bumpy.

    Crookneck squash is mostly found in North America. Up until the arrival of zucchini squash, the crookneck squash was majorly the dominant summer squash grown.

    Crookneck Squash

    This squash can be harvested when it’s still immature as a baby yellow crooked squash. It can as well be harvested when it’s fully matured in its full size. It can also be left on the vine to mature fully to a hardened gourd stage. Crooked neck squash is one of the very few summer squash that can be dried to a gourd-like stage.

    This tasty squash is packed with great nutrients such as carotenoid, lutein, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, fiber, folate, and bioavailable copper.

    Crookneck Yellow Squash Plant

    Crooked neck squash plants love to be grown in a warm environment. Hence, growing crooked neck squash plants should be in the warm season. Unlike other winter squashes and pumpkins, they don’t grow on long vines, so they are easier to be grown in a container and small spaces.

    Let’s dive in further and see how to grow this flavorful summer squash.

    Growing Crooked Neck Yellow Squash Plants

    Growing crooked neck squash is pretty easy and it’s a great choice for beginner gardeners. Starting this squash from their seeds is pretty straightforward and they will grow optimally especially when seeded directly into the soil garden.

    This squash can b grown in most types of soil and the soil should be very fertile. For optimal results, we recommend you work or mix about 2 to 4 inches of compost or other garden soil amendments as required.

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    Growing Crooked Neck Squash From Seeds

    As we mentioned, crooked neck squash requires rich soil to thrive well because they are heavy feeders.

    After working the soil with appropriate compost or soil amendments, proceed to seed planting. Plan to sow your seeds around 2 weeks after the last frost or when the soil outside is 65 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

    Plant your seed by pressing it into the soil to about 1 inch deep. Then cover the seed with some soil or compost and water adequately.

    Give the crooked squash seed spacing of about 2 to 3 feet apart. The majority of summer squash doesn’t usually grow in a vine manner. They tend to grow several feet wide. Therefore, it’s crucial you don’t crowd this squash so they don’t get invaded by squash bugs and powdery mildew if they end up getting any infestation.

    You should begin to see germination within 3 to 10 days of seed sowing. The first fruit production should be within 60 days of planting. The crooked neck squash plant can keep producing fruit until frost or diseases end their growth.

    Growing Crooked Neck Squash From Seedlings

    You can as well start your seeds indoors and transplant the germinated young seedlings outdoors. You can also purchase the seedlings from your local garden stores.

    It is essential you harden off your seedlings two weeks before transplanting. Do this by leaving them outside or exposing them to outdoor conditions so they can adjust to outdoor conditions.

    Growing Crooked Neck Squash From Seedlings

    Once it’s time for transplanting your seedlings outdoors, prepare the soil just like you would do for seeds by working in some compost before planting. Carefully remove the plant’s root ball from its container. Make a hole in the same depth of the container and plant your seedlings.

    Plant spacing should be at least 2 feet apart. Ensure you water the seedlings appropriately.

    Growing Recommendations For Growing Crooked Neck Squash

    Here are some growing requirements for crooked neck squash:

    • Sunlight: As a warmth-loving plant, crooked neck squash requires a sunny spot. Ensure the soil temperature outdoors is at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit before planting.

    • Soil and Soil pH: The soil for this squash must be well-draining. The soil should also be worked in by compost or other soil amendments. Crooked neck squash thrives well in a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8.

    • Watering: This squash plant should be watered optimally. Water deep at least once a week. The soil needs to be moist so aim to water to a depth of 4 inches. It’s better to feed your plant one long drink of water than watering several times at different periods. You can tell your plants require watering by looking at their appearance. During the day when the weather is hot, the leaves tend to wilt. However, when night comes, the leaves tend to spring back. But if you notice the leaves don’t spring back pr they’re still wilted the next morning, it’s important you water your squash immediately.

    • Mulch: When you’re done planting, ensue you mulch around your seedlings to prevent weeds and maintain warm and moist soil.

    • Fertilize: Crooked neck squash are heavy feeders so it’s important you fertilize your soil. You can side-dress your plants with a 5-10-10 fertilizer. The nitrogen level of the fertilizer should be kept low so your squash plant can produce more squash rather than more leaves.

    FAQ’s

    What does the name crookneck squash refer to?

    The name of the plant comes from the shape of its flower. Crookneck squash does not grow straight up, but twists around to make a sort of hook. The flower is white with a yellow center.

    Can beginning gardeners grow crookneck squash?

    Crooknecks are one of the most versatile vegetables in your garden. They are easy to grow and very tasty. There are many varieties of this squash, such as the buttercup, goldrush, and yellow crookneck.

    When should I plant them?

    This squash is also known as a winter melon because it is ready to harvest in the fall when the weather gets cold.

    It is important that you plant your seeds a few weeks before the last frost date. When your soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you can plant them.

    What are good ways to grow crooked squash?

    To start with, you should get seeds from your local nursery. Seeds should be planted in small pots or in a warm area of your garden. You will need to keep an eye on them to make sure they are growing well.

    Make sure you have a place where you can keep your plants warm. You can use a heating mat or put them inside a greenhouse. You should water your plants every day for one week after planting.

    Then, you should water them at least twice a week until the plants begin to flower. Make sure that you fertilize your plants. This will help your crookneck squash grow better. You can either apply fertilizer directly to the plants, or you can feed the plants with a foliar spray.

    A foliar spray is applied to the leaves of the plants. You should cut off any dead leaves from your plants before they start flowering. Dead leaves and stems can prevent the flowers from growing and blooming. When you cut them off, you will be able to enjoy the fruit that grows out of the flowers.

    How far do crookneck squash need to be spaced apart?

    I think you should space them around of 3 ft apart, and 2 at the closest. Squash love to grow close together. The larger the plant the farther apart it will go.

    How tall does crookneck squash grow?

    Crookneck squash grows to be about 5 feet tall, but it can reach heights of up to 7 feet. It has a light green color and produces fruits that are 1 to 3 inches long.

    How do you fertilize crookneck squash?

    Squash fertilization is similar to that of other crops. The first step is to apply a balanced fertilizer. The general rule is one-third nitrogen, one-third phosphorus, and one-third potassium. If your squash plants are small, you may want to apply liquid fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.

    Final Say

    Growing crooked neck squash is really easy and you can always enjoy the result of your squash plant once they’re ready for harvest.

    Your crooked neck squash should be ready for picking from 45 to 65 days after planting depending on the variety grown. If you want better tasting squash, harvest them when they reach about 6 inches in length.

  • Drainage Material For Potted Plants

    Drainage Material For Potted Plants

    Every plant requires proper drainage because it is critical to the health and growth of plants. When it comes to container gardening, a good drainage material for potted plants is super important. So, how do we ensure proper drainage in our container garden?

    Good drainage in a container garden is essential because soil needs to drain properly so excess moisture won’t be trapped in the soil. Excess moisture can predispose your plants to root rot and oxygen will be depleted in the root areas.

    You may have heard some common advice on making use of drainage material such as gravel, pebbles, rocks, and so on to help your potted plants. But is this really helpful in the drainage of your container garden? Well, let’s look into this.

    What To Use For Drainage Material In Potted Plants

    What to use for drainage in pots can significantly help your container plants flourish. There are several ways to providing the right drainage for plants and making use of drainage materials for potted plants is a good plan.

    Most container or pot often comes with drainage holes and this is great. However, some pots don’t come in drainage holes. So if they don’t come in drainage holes, you need to ensure you provide your containers with proper drainage. You can as well create drainage holes in your pots or container by drilling the bottom.

    What To Use For Drainage Material In Potted Plants

    However, there are some pots such as terra cotta or ceramic decorative pots that drainage holes can’t be made on. So making use of drainage materials can do the job.

    All you need to do is to put other types of drainage materials at the bottom of your pot or container.

    Let’s take a look at some drainage material that can be used for your potted plants.

    Planter Drainage Material

    So, here is some drainage material you can use for your potted plants:

    1.    Liner Pot

    As we said, a pot that is decorative such as ceramic pots or terra cotta pots doesn’t usually come with drainage holes at its base. Therefore, we recommend you make use of a plastic planting container that already has the bottom drilled to ensure proper drainage.

    The plastic container serves as a liner. Hence, it should be lined inside the larger pot. This way, it won’t be noticeable from the outside. So, you can always maintain your decorative pot at the same time provide proper drainage for your potted plants.

    Be sure to always monitor the water level that drains into the bottom of the larger pot. Then discard the water at the base when it passes a few inches.

    Liner Pot

    2.    Coffee Filters

    Most time, when watering your potted plants, you may experience some part of the soil washing out from the drainage holes. This is one major challenge faced in container gardening especially when the soil is loose soil like sandy soil.

    But with the help of drainage materials such as coffee filters lined between the drainage holes of the pot and the soil, your soil can be kept tidy. It will allow for proper drainage while keeping your soil from escaping to the bottom of the pot whenever you water your plants.

    Another filter similar to a coffee filter is a sheet of cheesecloth. So if coffee filters aren’t available, you can simply make use of a sheet of cheesecloth.

    3.    Perlite

    Perlite is a good draining material that can be used in potted plants. Plants such as succulents and other plants sensitive to moisture can gain from perlite addition to potting soil.

    Perlite tends to trap air by creating air pockets in the soil. This allows the soil to remain loose thereby draining moisture efficiently. Therefore, your potted plants won’t be sitting in a damp soil.

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    Myths On Drainage Material Such As Gravel & Rocks

    There has been some common suggestion or garden myth of using materials such as gravel, pebbles, rocks, and on can be used for drainage in potted plants. However, this has been debunked by experts.

    Experts have claimed that water would be absorbed or collected by these gravels and rocks rather than drain them. So, water is made more difficult to move through the pot. Hence, this makes them not so good if you wish to achieve drainage in potted plants.

    Simply using 1 inch of this rock or gravel can actually hinder or block the whole drainage hole. This ends up creating a waterlogged pot that can lead to root rot which will be bad for your plants. Additionally, the more rough or coarse the material used as drainage for potted plants, the worse the drainage.

    Also, these kinds of materials usually occupy more space in the pot that was meant for the plant root. Therefore, we recommend you avoid these types of materials when it comes to drainage for your potted plants.

    However, if you wish to improve water retention, you can make use of these materials. For instance, putting a couple of gravel underneath a liner pot can lessen the stress of frequently pouring out drained water. They can also serve as a barrier to the washing of soil.

    FAQ’s

    What can I use for drainage in potted plants?

    You could try the following:

    • Drainage mats. They are available at nurseries and home centers. You’ll need two of these for each pot. Place the mat on the bottom of the pot, place the plant on top of it, and cover the plant with soil. This should keep water from sitting in the pot and allowing roots to rot. • Soak an old dishcloth in water and place it over the top of the pot. This will allow water to drain through the cloth and keep it from sitting in the pot. • Place the pot in a sink or bathtub with holes in the bottom. Water will run down through the bottom of the pot and into the tub.

    What do you put in the bottom of an outdoor planter for drainage?

    I would recommend putting down a layer of gravel. Then fill with a mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and sand. Cover that with a layer of mulch. The mulch will hold moisture and keep the plant roots from sitting on the peat moss and possibly rotting it.

    Should you put rocks in bottom of planter?

    You can put rocks in the bottom, but I’d recommend using sand or something with a lot of air space in it.

    How do you give drainage to indoor plants?

    Indoor drainage is a very important part of maintaining a healthy indoor environment for plants. It’s easy to overlook this part of your plant care, but if you don’t have proper drainage in your growing room, you can end up with a wet, moldy mess that will be difficult to remove.
    Drainage is the process of removing water from your indoor garden. It may seem like an obvious concept, but it’s important to know what kind of drainage system you need in order to maintain a healthy environment for your plants.There are a few options. The easiest would be to put a layer of gravel on top of your potting mix, and then place the plant directly into the gravel. You can also use a tray with holes in it that allows water to drain from the potting mix down into the tray. You could put some plastic under the potting mix, then place the plant in the plastic.
    There are also pots made specifically for growing plants that have drainage holes. For example, the Pot Plant has holes all around the rim of the pot. The roots will grow through the holes, and water will drain away. This is a great way to grow plants that need to stay in a small space. If you want to be more creative, you can make your own drainage system. You can use a coffee can or plastic tub, and then drill holes in the bottom. You could also put a hole in the bottom of a pot. You would just have to fill it with a small amount of gravel, then plant your plant.

    Conclusion On Drainage Material For Potted Plants

    One of the most crucial aspects of container gardening is drainage. Improper drainage in container gardening can cause your plant root to be waterlogged and cause root rot. It can even cause improper air circulation to your plant’s roots which will be bad for the growth of your plant.

    We’ve listed some drainage material you can use for your potted plants. You can as well improve drainage by adding unobstructed holes at the base of your pot or container. Also, ensure you select the right container depending on the plant’s size. Then always water correctly.

    Therefore, you need to ensure your container plants are well-draining. So, making use of drainage material for your potted plants is a great way to providing a proper flow of water and air circulation.

  • When Are Acorn Squash Ready To Pick?

    When Are Acorn Squash Ready To Pick?

    Now that planting season is over and done with. It’s now time for harvesting our tasty veg. Acorn squash is another amazing kind of veg to grow in your garden but do you know when they are ready to pick? Let’s find out.

    Acorn squash is from the family of winter squash that is grown and harvested just like other kinds of winter squash variety. When it comes to harvesting, winter squash is quite different from summer squash.

    Getting to know when acorn squash is ready to pick isn’t so difficult and we will let you know in this post. So, let’s begin.

    Acorn Squash

    Acorn squash is a type of winter squash fruit that is from the family Cucurbita pepo and they are great in culinary dishes. Their outer skin is smooth with a hard skin and dry flesh. Acorn squash often has a dark green with a yellow or orange marking. It may also have orange or white variegated color.

    The inner flesh has a golden (yellow-orange) color with a firm grip and buttery nutty taste. The texture is somewhat stringy and it has this sweet flavor.

    Acorn Squash

    With their sweet flavor, this acorn squash fruit can pair well with a wide variety of seasonings both savory and sweet.

    One acorn squash, which is about 2 pounds, can make a meal for two when you stuff them with filling ingredients. Then baked and served right in their shell.

    When Is Acorn Squash Ready To Pick

    Getting to know when to pick acorn squash is very important so you don’t pick them at the wrong time. The confusing thing is that this squash can always turns green before they mature and they even stay green long after they are matured.

    Gardeners would want to avoid harvesting an unripe acorn squash because an unripe acorn is totally boring in taste.

    But generally, most varieties of acorn squash are often ready to be picked 75 to 100 days after seed planting. This will majorly depend on the right conditions you give them and one important factor is sunlight. Acorn squash should be supplied at least 6 hours of sun per day.

    So how exactly do you know when acorn squash is ready to pick? Let’s find out.

    When To Harvest Acorn Squash

    Here are some ways you can tell when acorn squash is ready to pick.

    1.    Color

    One easy way to tell if your acorn squash is ready to be picked is from its color. A matured or ripe acorn will turn green then the portion of acorn squash that has been in contact with the ground would have a visible yellow patch.

    When To Harvest Acorn Squash - Color

    Acorn squash which is still immature will have a shiny skin look compared to the ripen squash that will have a more dull look.

    2.    Stem

    Once your acorn fruit is ripe, a couple of inches which is connected to the stem will become withered and brown.

    3.    Skin Texture

    The skin texture of the acorn squash is another way to tell if they are ready to pick. A ripe acorn skin texture tends to be hard. On the other hand, an unripe acorn skin texture will be soft.

    One good way of testing the maturity of the acorn fruit is by pressing your fingernail on the skin and try to make a mark on it. If you were successful in marking the fruit and the mark is noticeable, then it isn’t ripe yet. However, if you find it hard to make a noticeable mark on the tough skin, then it’s ripe.

    4.    Time

    As we mentioned, acorn squash will take about 75 to 100 days to become mature. But this should be after the seedling transplanting stage has passed. However, if you wish to calculate from the seed stage, you can add 2 weeks to the harvest time.

    So, if every other tip fails, simply set a reminder and calculate 75 to 100 days or roughly 3 months after seed plating.

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    How To Harvest Acorn Squash

    Once the acorn squash is ready to pick, use a sharp knife or a sharp tool to harvest your fruit. Aim at cutting the fruits 5 cm or 2 inches away from the stem. Avoid cutting the fruit too close to the stem. Cutting the acorn squash too close to the stem can predispose the plant to bacterial infection which can cause the plant to spoil.

    We recommend you only harvest the ones you are ready to use. Leave the rest on the vine and allow it to harden some more so they can ripe fully. So far the weather is warm enough, the squash is safe and it will continue to mature. However, you should harvest them if they are prone to frost.

    Storing Acorn Squash

    Once you’ve harvested your acorn squash, storing them appropriately is important. This is so they can last longer and maintains their quality as you store them. Below are some important tips to storing your acorn squash appropriately:

    • Temperature: Store your harvested acorn squash at a temperature between 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, store them in a cool dark place such as a pantry, basement, or warmer area of a root cellar.
    • Humidity: The appropriate relative humidity to store your acorn squash is around 50 to 70%. Also, make sure your harvested acorn squash has adequate ventilation or airflow to encourage longer storage.

    Generally, store acorn squash in a cool dry location. Refrain from piling up your harvested acorn fruits. You should rather create space between these fruits and spread them out in single rows.  This will help make air circulation easier and it will also avoid bruising of the fruits. You can as well freeze your acorn squash to store them for long.

    FAQ’s

    What are the factors that are considered when a squash is to be harvested?

    Squash can be harvested at various stages of maturity, depending on the variety. The main factors are: The amount of sunlight that the plant has been receiving. Whether the plant is male or female. The size and shape of the squash. The color of the skin. The stage of ripeness, from green to fully ripe. The type of squash.

    Squash at the supermarket is usually picked ripe. If you buy it unripe, you’ll have to wait for it to ripen before eating it. 

    How do you know when an acorn squash is ready to pick?

    I think they look a little like a pumpkin. The acorn squash is a variety of butternut squash and they look like a big butternut squash. The skin will be very dark green and the flesh will be yellow.

    Squash are ready to pick when the stem is soft and easy to pull off.

    If you need a visual guide, look for the following characteristics: The squash should be heavy for its size and feel firm to the touch. The stem should be soft and flexible with no dry or crunchy areas. If the squash is heavy, it is probably fully mature and has the best flavor.

    Can you eat under ripe acorn squash?

    If they are a little soft, then it’s fine to cut them in half. But if they are very soft (like mush), then you should wait until they’re completely tender.

    If you want to eat them right away, then I’d suggest steaming them. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds and steam it for about 15 minutes.

    What color should acorn squash be inside?

    I would suggest that you look at the color of the squash when it is ripe, and use that as a guide. I usually eat my acorn squash when it is yellow. If you look at your local farmers market, you will be able to find acorn squash that is close to being ripe, and you can decide from there.

    Can you eat acorn squash when it turns orange?

    The orange color of acorn squash comes from a chemical called beta-carotene, which is a nutrient found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. When eaten regularly, beta-carotene may help protect against certain cancers and eye diseases.

    The color of a squash can change depending on the variety and growing conditions. And just like with many fruits and vegetables, the answer to that question is not black and white but a bit of gray. It’s a matter of how the vegetable was grown, the color it will be when cut and the color it will develop once it’s cooked.

    Final Thoughts On When Are Acorn Squash Ready To Pick

    As we can see, harvesting acorn squash is not so difficult if you have the right knowledge on how to go about it.

    So we hope you’ve learned some good things you need to know about when acorn squash is ready to pick.

  • Green Bean Inoculant

    Green Bean Inoculant

    You may have heard a lot about green bean inoculant and you may be wondering how important this is to the growth of your green bean plant. But what exactly is inoculant? What role does it play and why should we consider using one for our green beans or peas?

    Green beans, black beans, peas, and so on are all members of the legume (Fabaceae) family. These legumes are well known for their aid in fixing nitrogen into the soil.

    This article will go over what you need to know about green bean inoculant and other related info. So, read on to gain some knowledge.

    What Is An Inoculant?

    An inoculant is a type of bacteria or fungus that is often applied or added to the soil through the process of coating bean seed or pea seed. Known as beans or peas boosters.

    Usually, the inoculants often come in powder but you may also come across liquid inoculants.

    What Is An Inoculant

    Inoculants & Nitrogen Fixing Bacteria

    Plants require nitrogen to make amino acids which is a building block for protein and other plant components. Ideally, we have 78% of nitrogen gas in the atmosphere. But the problem is that nitrogen is in the gas form and plants can’t use or assimilate this.

    The bacteria such as Rhizobium will work with the root system of peas and beans by creating nodes along with their roots. These nodes are responsible for fixing nitrogen gas and will change the nitrogen gas into a usable form for plant use.

    Normally, the roots nodules of legumes such as beans and peas already contain Rhizobium bacteria. Hence, they already have the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. So you may wonder if you really need to inoculate your green bean seed.

    It may not be necessary to inoculate your green beans seeds. However, when you apply inoculants to their seeds, it makes sure the correct type of bacteria that is specific to that legume is available to the plant when they germinate.

    Another important note you should always remember is that once you’ve been growing and producing beans in your garden, you really don’t need inoculants. This is because these bacteria are already living and thriving in your soil even after you’ve planted and harvested.

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    Seed Inoculants

    Inoculating seeds involves coating or covering the seed surface with nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as Rhizobium or Bradyrhizobium. Inoculating seeds with nitrogen-fixing bacteria is always done prior to planting.

    Inoculant For Green Bean And Peas

    There are many bacteria used in inoculation. The bacteria often used for inoculating legumes like beans are Rhizobium bacteria. Rhizobium is also a pea inoculant. Therefore, the Rhizobium bacteria will only work for peas and beans and can’t be used for any other types of plants.

    Another kind of nitrogen-fixing bacteria is Acetobacter, and this is isolated from sugarcane stem and root.  Another type is Bradyrhizobium japonicum and this is used in inoculating soybean for fixing nitrogen.

    How To Use Inoculant On Green Bean & Pea

    It’s pretty easy inoculating your green bean and pea seeds. Simply purchase your legume inoculant from your local nursery store or online. But take note that some legume seeds may have already been coated with an inoculant. So ensure you know the type of legume seed you have.

    Always make sure you have the correct inoculant specific to the type of legume you will be planting. There are different inoculants specific to different plants. So, whenever you purchase inoculants, ensure you read the package to know the type of plant it will be treating.

    Also look at the expiry date to ascertain the inoculant is still viable. Inoculants often come in fine, black powder sealed in a plastic bag. However, you may come across some liquid inoculants.

    So, to inoculate seeds, plant your green bean or pea into the planting hole. Then put a good amount of inoculant into the hole with the legume seed. Done inoculating your legume seeds, cover the seed hole with soil.

    Importance Of Inoculation

    Here are the benefits you stand to gain when you use inoculants on your green beans or peas:

    1. Normally, Rhizobium bacteria are present in many soils. But inoculating your legume seeds will ensure the correct or specific strain of bacteria required by that legume is present in the soil.
    2. Seed inoculation will offer your legume plant stronger and bigger yields. It will also give you a healthy plant.
    3. Inoculants make nitrogen more readily available for plants use.
    4. Once, you’ve inoculated and planted a legume crop on a particular soil, there will be sufficient availability of the specific bacteria you’ve inoculated. This is because the bacteria will live and thrive in the soil so far they have an adequate supply of food. This means you should constantly till your soil and incorporate compost and green matter back into the soil.
    Importance Of Inoculation

    What does inoculate mean when it comes to green beans?

    If you are a gardener, you may be wondering whether you should inoculate your green beans. It is possible that you have never heard of this term, and if so, here’s what you need to know.

    If you are not familiar with the term, “inoculating” means introducing beneficial microorganisms into a plant. This can be done in two ways: by planting seeds that have been treated with beneficial microbes, or by spraying the seeds with a solution that contains these microbes. You may already have seen sprout bags with seeds that have been treated with beneficial microbes. These seeds can be purchased online and at some garden centers. However, if you are just starting to grow your own green beans, you will need to purchase untreated seeds.

    How do you Inoculate Green Beans?

    There are many ways to inoculate your green beans. Some of the simplest include sprinkling a solution of beneficial microbes on the seed before planting it in the soil. However, you may want to consider using an alternative method if you are planning to plant several types of seeds at the same time.

    If you are growing several different varieties of seeds, you might want to inoculate each variety separately. A few alternatives to sprinkling the seed with a solution of beneficial microbes include soaking the seeds in a solution of beneficial microbes, spraying the seed with a solution of beneficial microbes, or soaking the seed in a solution of beneficial microbes and then drying it.

    Sprinkling a Solution of Beneficial Microbes on Seeds

    Sprinkling seeds with a solution of beneficial microbes is probably the simplest way to inoculate seeds for your green beans. Sprinkle the seeds on the soil surface before planting them. You can use a bottle or other container to hold the beneficial microbes. The easiest type of beneficial microbes to use for this application are those that are sold as “seed inoculants”. These are simply solutions that contain beneficial microbes that are meant to be applied to seeds. However, if you have difficulty finding these types of beneficial microbes, you may be able to find another solution.

    Some people use liquid kelp extract, a product called “Kelp Green Bean Starter”, or a product called “Green Bean Booster”. There are also many companies that sell products that contain beneficial microbes. Some of these include the following: BioGro Organic Gardening Supply Company (OGSC)

    Soil Food Store Earthworms

    Bio-Gro Mycorrhizae

    Microbe Inoculant Solutions

    What are beneficial microbes for spraying seeds?

    You can spray seeds with a solution of beneficial microbes by using an atomizer. If you do not have an atomizer, you can buy one online. You can use a spray bottle, but you will need to shake it well before you use it. You can use a spray bottle without shaking, but you will need to shake it well to ensure that the solution is mixed evenly throughout the bottle. How to Inoculate Your Green Beans with Liquid Kelp Extract You can soak seeds in a solution of beneficial microbes by using kelp extract. You can purchase liquid kelp extract online and at some garden centers.

    Additional Note On Green Bean Inoculant

    Nitrogen is required by plants to make amino acid that is used to as a building block for proteins. Required for other essential components. Green bean and pea inoculant is an excellent way of supplying usable nitrogen into your soil.

    However, not using inoculants on your legumes will not stop them from producing good yields. Matter of fact, many gardeners have grown legumes successfully without inoculating their seeds. This is because the bacteria for inoculating most plants are usually present in the soil.

    Also, the garden that leguminous plants such as beans and pea have already been planted on may already have a good supply of Rhizobium in the soil. So it won’t be necessary to inoculate the soil.

    Inoculants are simply boosters. Their work is to give you stronger and bigger yields. Therefore, if you want a larger and greater yield from your peas and beans, then you can use this inoculant. Also, if you have never grown leguminous crops such as beans and pea in your garden, inoculating the soil may be pretty beneficial.