Grower Today

Category: Organic Food

  • How Long Does It Take For Lettuce To Grow? 

    How Long Does It Take For Lettuce To Grow? 

    Are you planning to grow lettuce? If so, you will want to know how long it take for lettuce to grow from seed to harvesting.

    Lettuce is a very popular vegetable around the world, and its popularity has grown tremendously over the past years. Lettuce is not only used as a food, but it also has many other uses.  Lettuce is used in many different ways and in many different cultures.

    Lettuce can be eaten raw or cooked.  There are many different types of lettuce, such as romaine, cos, butterhead, and others.  

    Most people enjoy fresh lettuce salad for lunch. It is also a common ingredient in a variety of different recipes. Lettuce is very easy to grow and does well in almost any kind of soil.

    What is the quickest lettuce to grow?

    Step-by-step Guide to Grow Lettuce

    Step 1:  Choose the planting season

    It is best to plant lettuce during the spring and summer months. It should be planted when the temperature and soil are both warm.

    Step 2:  Prepare the soil

    For optimum growth, it is best to plant lettuce in rich, well-drained soil in a sunny location.  The soil should not be too moist or dry.  It should be kept moderately moist so that the roots are not stressed.

    This is to help them grow quickly and develop into healthy plants.  When growing lettuce in the ground make sure the area is weed-free, has a good amount of organic matter, and any rocks and other hard objects in the soil are removed.

    Step 3:   Planting the seeds

    Seeds are best planted around 3/4 to 1” deep.  Make sure the seeds are planted evenly.  There should be at least two seeds per inch.

    The seeds should be planted in a shallow hole. If the soil is too wet, the roots of the lettuce will rot.

    Make sure that you don’t plant the seeds too deep because they will not germinate. Lettuce can be planted between two rows of other vegetables, such as beans or corn. This will help to keep the weeds out.

    Step 4:   Watering

    Water the soil and let it dry for several days.  Then water again, but make sure not to overwater.  If the soil is too wet, the lettuce will rot. 

    Lettuce needs around one to two inches of water a week during the growing season. Once the plants have been watered and the seeds have germinated, the plants should be spaced approximately three inches apart.

    Step 5:   Fertilizing

    When the plants are about two weeks old, you should start fertilizing them.  Make sure that you fertilize your plants in the early spring before the soil is too cold. 

    Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer such as alfalfa meal, fish meal, balanced water-soluble fertilizer, granular fertilizer or composted manure. Make sure to apply it around the base of the plant, but don’t apply it too close to the stem or it will burn the plant.

    Step 6:   Harvesting

    You will know when to harvest the lettuce when it gets big and full of leaves.  Harvest your lettuce when the heads are full and this is in about 6 to 8 weeks.

    You should wait until you see that the head has turned green before harvesting it.  You can then use the harvested leaves to make salads or add them to sandwiches.  You can also plant your lettuce seeds indoors, in seed trays.

    This way, you will have a head of lettuce in the garden by early spring.  Make sure that the seedlings are not too big or else they may not survive.  You can also buy transplants from your local garden store.

    Types Of Lettuce

    There are many types of lettuce that you can grow and enjoy.  You can choose from iceberg, romaine, leaf, butterhead, bibb, crisphead, red leaf, green leaf, and stem lettuce. 

    The names are self-explanatory and it’s easy to tell which type is which. There are other types of lettuce, such as butterhead lettuce, iceberg lettuce, and romaine lettuce.

    Each variety has its own unique characteristics, but they are all part of the same family. There are a lot of other varieties of lettuce that you can plant and they all are delicious.

    Take-home – How Long Does It Take For Lettuce To Grow?

    How long does it take for lettuce to grow?  A good 6 to 8 weeks is the period lettuce takes to grow from seed to maturity. Lettuce can be planted anytime, however, the best time to plant is in spring.

    The longer you wait the better your lettuce will be.  Plant lettuce seeds in a large, deep hole and cover them with about an inch of soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 4-6 inches.

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    FAQs

    How long does it take for lettuce to grow from a seedling?

    Lettuce seeds germinate in 3–4 days, depending on the weather and soil conditions. The seedlings grow in about a week. Lettuce requires frequent watering to maintain its good growth and health. Watering also helps remove soil salts that accumulate in the lettuce plants.

    What is the quickest lettuce to grow?

    The quickest type of lettuce to grow is the romaine, iceberg, butterhead, or cos lettuce varieties. These types of lettuces are more sensitive to cold temperatures, so they need to be planted at the beginning of spring when the soil is warm enough to promote rapid growth.

    How long does lettuce take to flower?

    Lettuce takes about a month after maturity to flower. The flowers appear in early summer and continue to produce fruit until the fall. The lettuce plants should be cut back in the late fall to promote new growth for the following year.  Lettuce can be harvested at any stage of maturity. The young lettuce leaves are best picked when they have just reached full size. Lettuce grows quickly, so it is important to pick it up before it becomes too large. The first harvest should be about one month after the seeds were sown.

    How long is lettuce germination time?

    Lettuce seeds usually need at least 1 to 2  weeks to germinate and produce a plant. Seeds should be planted in moist soil with temperatures above 60F (15C). If temperatures drop below 55F (13C), seeds will not germinate.  Seeds should be planted when temperatures reach between 50 and 65F (10 and 18C). Germination takes place when the temperature of the soil rises above 60F (15C).

  • Long Beans Vs Green Beans – Distinguishing These Beans

    Long Beans Vs Green Beans – Distinguishing These Beans

    Long beans vs green beans are what we will be discussing today. Beans generally are a type of staple food that is used in many traditional dishes all over the world.

    Beans are cooked in many different ways and they can be boiled, fried, baked, and so on. They are considered a vegetable and beans are highly nutritious. This vegetable has high fiber and starch contents and beans are a great source of dietary fiber and nutrients like potassium and folate.

    Now when we talk about beans generally, beans have many varieties. So, long beans and green beans are a type of beans variety. Long beans vs green beans are what we will be looking at in this post. So, read on for more insight on the differences between these two bean varieties.

    But before we look into the difference between long beans and green beans, let’s briefly discuss what long beans vs green beans are.

    Really Long Green Beans – What Are They?

    Long beans are a really long bean and it is a type of beans that is also referred to as yardlong beans, pea beans, Chinese long beans, long-podded cowpea, snake beans,  Chinese long bean, and bora. Long beans or yardlong beans aren’t just called yard beans for nothing. They are capable of growing up to a yard.

    This bean is a longtime or ancient vegetable and they have different wild varieties that grow in tropical Africa.

    Long green beans have this extraordinary length and they appear to be overgrown in nature just like every other bean, they are from the family of legumes. This bean can be as long as 12 to 30 inches and from pale green to dark green and this can vary depending on the variety.

    Really Long Green Beans - What Are They

    Long Beans Health Benefits

    These beans have minimal calorie content therefore it is great for those that are on a diet plan. Long beans are also loaded with good vitamins such as vitamin A and C. it is rich in dietary fiber that can aid in bowel movements in a healthy way so they can help resolve constipation.

    Again, because it is a green bean vegetable, it may help in the role of fighting cancer and may even slow down aging.

    The flavor of this distinctive long bean is very pronounced and they give this sharp beany taste. However, they are not so sweet as green beans.

    This long bean can be briefly steamed, stir-fried, or braised. They can also hold up very well when they are added to stew. When you want to cook long beans, try to cut them into about 1 to 2 inches.

    If you want the best flavor and tender texture of long beans, we recommend you go for the ones that are around 12 and 18 inches in length. Anything longer than this can prove to be tougher in texture.

    Green Beans

    Green is another type of bean that is common and it is the young fruit of different cultivars of the common beans. This bean can be referred to as string beans, snap beans, and French beans. This type of beans is also a leguminous plant. The yellow version of this bean is referred to as wax bean and there is also the purple variety.

    Growers of this green bean usually harvest them while the bean is still in their pod right before they have the chance to mature.

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    Green Beans Health Benefits

    This green bean is a wonderful source of vitamin A, C, and K. It is loaded with folic acid and fiber and you can benefit from a decent amount of calcium present in the green bean. Antioxidants are present in green beans and this aids in enhancing your immune system.

    Then green bean is important for the production of collagen and they can assist in protecting your skin from oxidative stress.

    Also, consuming vegetables such as green beans can help minimize the risk of different adverse health conditions. Different studies have suggested that when you consume more plant foods like green beans; it can help with certain health conditions such as diabetes, heart diseases, obesity, and so on.

    Pregnant women can also benefit from green beans and women of child-bearing age can have their fertility boosted with green beans.

    Additionally, vegetables such as green beans can promote a healthy complexion, increased energy, as well an overall lower weight.

    Difference Between Long Beans And Green Beans

    Even though long beans and green beans are from the same family of legumes, there are still some slight differences between them. Long beans vs green beans are what we will be discussing below.

    • Taste: The taste of green beans and long beans are a bit similar but green beans still have a better taste compared to long beans.
    • Texture: Green bean and long bean may taste similar. But they have this distinctive texture. Green beans for instance taste palatable when steamed or boiled. Long beans on the other hand usually become waterlogged and bland when treated with water.
    • Heat tolerance: Unlike green beans, long beans can also stand up to the heat of a stir-fry and a low long heat of a stew better as they will maintain their crunchiness.

    Can Green Bean Be Substituted With Long Beans?

    Even though long beans and green bans look somewhat different, you can still substitute them with each other if you can’t find one of them. So, this means that long beans can do what regular green beans can.

    Long Beans Vs Green Beans: Conclusion

    Both long beans and green beans are wonderful vegetables we can add to our various dishes. Long beans vs green beans have been explained in this post if you want to know the differences.

    FAQ’s

    Can you substitute green beans for long beans?

    Yes, it is possible to substitute green beans for long beans because long beans or yard bean can do what regular green bean does. So, you can enjoy either one of them by substituting them in your various cooking.

    Do Chinese long beans taste like green beans?

    Long beans may taste a bit similar to green beans, but you will still notice some differences in their taste. Chinese long beans tend to have this distinctive flavor and this beany taste. Also, Chinese long beans are not as great tasting as the green bean is.

  • Zucchini Plant Not Producing: 4 Common Reasons?

    Zucchini Plant Not Producing: 4 Common Reasons?

    Fruit is usually the result of a flower but when the flower refuses to yield fruit even with some blooms it becomes a worrying situation. Zucchini plant not producing fruit can have any gardener worried. After all, it is our goal to have a successful yield whenever we plant.

    This summer squash vegetable usually grows beautifully during warm temperatures and they don’t really like frost or chilly temperatures.

    Even though zucchini can be quite easy to grow, growers may still face some challenges. It can be pretty frustrating when you’ve planted and had hopes for your vegetable to give rise to fruit then it refuses to produce.

    Zucchini plant not producing fruit or producing less fruit may be caused by different reasons. We will be looking into some of these reasons and suggest things you can do to resolve the situation if possible.

    Understanding Zucchini’s Mode Of Reproduction

    Before we look into why zucchini may not be producing fruits, let’s first look into the reproductive mechanism of the zucchini plant.

    Just like every other squash plant, the zucchini plant is a monoecious plant. This implies that the plant zucchini has both male and female flowers separately on the same plant. The reproductive part of a plant is present in the flowers of the plant.

    Understanding Zucchini’s Mode Of Reproduction

    Zucchini Plant Not Producing: 4 Common Reasons

    Naturally, fruit production precedes flower so when your zucchini plant does not give rise to fruits after blooming, then something may be wrong. Below are 5 common reasons your zucchini plant may not be producing.

    1.    Young Plant With Only Male Flowers

    As we have explained above, the flower of zucchini is monoecious and tends to produce both male and female flowers on a plant.  However, it may happen that the young plants of zucchini give rise to only male flowers and no female flowers.

    Usually, during the early growing season of zucchini, this squash plant often gives rise to more male flowers than female flowers. So, this may hinder the production of fruit because both the male flower and female flower are required for fertilization to produce fruit.

    Therefore, don’t be surprised if you notice your zucchini plant producing only makes flowers for the first couple of weeks and you see no fruit set. So, if your zucchini plant is still at its young stage, not to worry because it will set fruit later.

    2.    Pollination Not Successful – Zucchini Plant Not Producing

    Honeybees are the major pollinators responsible for transferring pollen grain from the flower of the male zucchini to the female flower. When these pollen grains are successfully transferred, the process will lead to fertilization and result in fruit formation.

    So, bees are important for pollination to be successful and if there is a little population of bees in your area, pollination may be poor and this can lead to little or no fruit production.

    If this is the issue in your area, then you can help the situation by doing self-pollination. This can be done by locating the pollen that looks like yellow dust and dabbing the middle of a male flower using a small paintbrush. Then dab the same paint brush you used on the make flower again on the female flower.

    Alternatively, just pinch off the male flower and take out the petals. Then lightly dab the center into the center or stigma of the zucchini female flower.

    If you will be hand pollinating your zucchini flowers, we recommend you do this early in the morning. This is because the flowers of squash usually open early and only last for a day.

    3.    Hot Weather – Zucchini Plant Not Producing

    When the weather becomes too hot, it can cause unsuccessful pollination of the zucchini flowers. This is because too high a temperature reduces the germination of pollen grains. Hence, this can give rise to incomplete pollination of the zucchini female flower thereby resulting in fruit not setting the way it should.

    Once the temperature during the day is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the temperature during the night is more than 75 degrees Fahrenheit, this can depreciate the flower of zucchini. It can cause the zucchini plant to begin to drop fruit even before they get the chance of developing.

    However, during this very hot period, you can help the zucchini plant by watering the plant frequently so the soil does not dry out quickly.

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    4.    Over-watering

    If you over-water your plant and your plant becomes soggy, it may result in the developing fruit becoming rotten. Hence, this can cause the zucchini plant not to produce adequately.

    How To Further Help Zucchini Plant To Produce

    We have listed some reasons why your zucchini plant may not be producing fruits. Let’s further discuss other things you can do to help your zucchini plant to reproduce:

    • Water When Needed – Zucchini Plant Not Producing

    It is important to water your zucchini, especially during the hot season so your soil doesn’t dry out. Also, zucchini usually requires more watering during their fruiting stage. However, make sure you don’t over-water your plant because it can lead to the rotting of fruit.

    Check Out How Deep To Plant Lettuce- The Ideal Planting Depth

    • Fertilize

    You can further boost the chance of your zucchini plant giving rise to fruit by fertilizing your plant. Nitrogen fertilizer should be supplied to the soil at the rate of half cup of 46-0-0 fertilizer or at the rate of 1 cup of 2-3-3 fertilizer per 25-foot row. This should be done during their midseason when the plant has grown fully.

    How To Further Help Zucchini Plant To Produce

    Conclusion On Zucchini Plant Not Producing

    Zucchini plant not producing fruits can be pretty discouraging for any gardener. If you’re experiencing this, there are some reasons why this is so and we have listed them in this post. We have also suggested some things you can do to help the situation.

    FAQ’s

    Why are my zucchini plants not producing?

    Your zucchini plants may not be producing due to some reasons. Some of these reasons can be because of unsuccessful pollination because of absence or few bee pollinators, hot weather, and young plant that has only male flowers.

    Why is my zucchini plant flowering but not producing fruit?

    If your zucchini plant is producing flowers alone but yielding fruits, it may be because there are not enough honeybees o pollinate your flowers.

    Why does my zucchini have only male flowers?

    If your zucchini flowers are producing only male flowers, then it is likely because they are still in their young stage. Once the zucchini plant grows, you should begin to have female flowers as well.

    How do I know if my zucchini is pollinated?

    You should know your zucchini is pollinated once you notice a bright green and your squash growing longer by the day.

  • How Deep To Plant Lettuce- The Ideal Planting Depth

    How Deep To Plant Lettuce- The Ideal Planting Depth

    One of the most widely planted vegetables commonly grown in the US is usually lettuce. They are so easy to grow and you don’t need the experience to grow them. How deep to plant lettuce is what this article will give you information on.

    Lettuce is a cool-season crop so they flourish well during spring and fall. Lettuce seeds are easily sown directly into the soil as soon as the ground soil can be worked on.

    It may please you to know that lettuce grows rapidly and it can take only a month from seed planting for baby greens to be harvested. So, you can just add lettuce to your vegetable garden as you will be enjoying lettuce and even save some money instead of going to the grocery store to shop for lettuce.

    How deep to plant lettuce is the information you will get here. So, let’s get some details on the ideal lettuce planting depth.

    How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    The dept that is ideal to plant lettuce seed is around 1/8 to ¼ of an inch deep. It is important you don’t sow lettuce seeds too deep. This is because lettuce seed requires light to germinate so, if the seed is too deep, light may not penetrate the seeds and this may lead to unsuccessful lettuce seed germination. Also, make sure you sow the seeds of lettuce when the soil is not frozen.

    Additionally, to successfully sow lettuce seed, you will need a well-tilled seedbed. Note that stones and large clods of dirt can slow down seed germination. So ensure the seedbed is clear of any obstacles such as these.

    How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    Starting Lettuce Seeds – How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    You can start your lettuce seeds either indoors and then transplant or sow them directly in the garden. How deep to sow your lettuce seeds should be 5mm (1/4”). Or you can plant them where there will be all-around moisture in the soil which is the topmost layer of the soil.

    Because the baby lettuce is usually ready for harvesting while it’s immature, it should be planted densely. Unlike other types of lettuce seeds that don’t really need covering as they are usually planted right at the surface, you should plant pelleted seeds 1cm (1/2”) deep.

    Your pelleted seeds need to be all-around moist when planted newly. Water it more than the way you would have watered the conventional seed variety. However, leaving the soil to dry out will only make the pelleting material suck water from and cause dehydration for the seed.

    This is because the pellet material is clay. This action will lead to a more unpleasant situation which is unequal or lower sprouting. So, give space between thin loose leaf varieties to about 20-25cm.

    As for the heading lettuce varieties, give space of about 30cm between them. Give space of about 45-90cm between rows, for all types of varieties. Also, harvesting can be made easier if baby leaf lettuce seeds are planted by each other in rows that are narrow.

    Tips On Growing Lettuce

    The best soil to grow lettuce in is the type that is well-draining and also high in organic matter. Ideally, the soil pH for growing lettuce must be between 6.0-6.5.

    Before planting your lettuce, say 3 weeks, endeavor to mix compost and lime into the soil. Once it’s 2 or 3 days to transplanting, reduce watering and also move your lettuce plants outdoors.

    This will help harden off the seedlings before transplanting and it will prevent shock transplant. So, this way premature bolting and transplant shock can be avoided.

    While you’re growing lettuce, you should be aware of some growing requirements for a smooth growth. Here are some more tips to help you with growing lettuce.

    Check Out Can Compost Worms Survive Winter?

    • Water Appropriately – How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    Watering lettuce has to be done in an intentional way that will encourage more leaf growth so you can have the “cut and come again.” So, watering should be light, consistent, and frequent. Aim for a moist soil and avoid soggy soil.

    Again, you can just supply the roots of lettuce water and also splash cool water on the leaves, especially during hot days. This is to maintain a happy and refreshed lettuce during hot days.

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    • Soil – How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    The soil you will be using to grow lettuce must be well0drianing. This is so water doesn’t soak up in the root.

    • Cover Or Shade Lettuce When Needed

    During the hot season, you can use row covers to shade the leaves. You can also mulch to maintain a cool root.

    Read more about Do Pepper Plants Grow Back Every Year?

    Growing Lettuce In Container – How Deep To Plant Lettuce

    Lettuce can also be planted in containers easily and you can either do this by direct sowing or transplanting.

    To sow lettuce seed in containers, choose a good soil and before planting, make sure you add half a tablespoon of time-releasing fertilizer per gallon of soil.

    If you will be transplanting lettuce in containers, bury the transplant quarter inch or 0.5 cm deep than they would have been in an outdoor garden. Then ensure the spacing is about 6 to 12 inches apart. However, you can plant lettuce leaf a bit closer than the head type.

    Also, the type of lettuce variety you choose for container growing can go a long way. For instance, some recommended varieties are the Black Seeded Thompson and red or green oak leaf types.

    Loose-leaf lettuce varieties are better used for container growing rather than head lettuce.

    Growing Lettuce In Container

    How Deep To Plant Lettuce: Final Say

    So, we have seen the ideal depth to plant lettuce from the explanation above. So, lettuce doesn’t need to be planted too deep so they can have access to light as it is crucial for their seed to develop.

    FAQ’s

    How shallow can you plant lettuce?

    Lettuce does not need to be planted too deep because their seeds need to reach out to the light to germinate properly. So, plant lettuce seed about a quarter to half inch deep.

    Can you plant lettuce too deep?

    It is not ideal to plant lettuce seeds too deep. This can hinder the seeds from getting access to light which they need to properly germinate. If they are planted too deep, it may result in weak and feeble seedlings. Planting lettuce too deep may even fail to germinate.

    How deep to plant lettuce seeds?

    Ideally, the seeds of lettuce should be planted about half an inch deep to a quarter inch deep. This implies that lettuce seeds do well in shallow spots.

  • Get To Know How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot

    Get To Know How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot

    Although it’s quite easy to just walk into your local garden center and get a basil plant to grow right away: you can also try growing basil from seeds. How many basil seeds per pot should we be looking at if we are growing basil from seed? Let’s find out.

    Basil is an excellent type of herb that is very useful. Growing basil from seed is pretty easy and doing this can even save you some cash. Basil also comes in different types such as sweet basil, dark opal basil, lemon basil, cinnamon basil, lime basil, giant leaf basil, and so on.

    Growing and adding basil to your vegetable garden can be pretty beneficial. Basil is a very versatile plant that is used in our various dishes such as salads, sandwiches, pizza, soups, pasta, and so on. They are also useful in terms of medicinal use.

    You can grow basil either from its plant or simply start from seed. How many basil seeds per pot are what we would like to discuss in this post. So, read further to get some knowledge on the appropriate number of basil seeds to sow per pot.

    Growing Basil In Pot – How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot

    Basil is easily grown in pots or containers and with some attention and extra effort, you can enjoy the result of fresh basil. All kinds of containers can work for basil to be grown in. just make sure you use a top-notch potting soil mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage.

    How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot?

    Ideally, you can sprinkle or sow around 5 to 8 basil seeds per pot or container. Use potting soil and make sure you moist the soil so it can remain a bit moist and make sure the soil isn’t soggy.

    Also, the seeds of basil are usually started indoors with the pot placed on a warm windowsill or under a grow light.

    You should begin to notice some sprouting after about a week of sowing seed.

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    Growing Basil From Seed – How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot

    Starting basil plant from seed may sound new to you. But not to worry because this can go pretty easy for you if you do things the right way. Basil is also a fast-growing plant or herb that can germinate from seed in just about a week.

    So let’s look into how we can properly grow basil from seeds:

    • Firstly, you should make sure the danger of frost has elapsed when you plan to grow basil. This is because basil plants are not cold-hardy. Hence, they are sensitive to frost or cold. Matter of fact, you can wait to move your potted basil outdoors garden after about 7 to 10 days of your estimated last frost in your area. This is because the outdoor conditions may still be unpredictable so you can be sure the cold weather is done.
    • Next, plant about 5 to 8 seeds for each pot, or some seeds should be sprinkled in a seed starter kit. Then cover the basil seeds with a fine layer of compost.
    • A top-quality potting soil or a seed starter mix should be used. Mist the soil to make sure the soil remains a little moist but not soggy.

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    • Once you’ve sown your basil seeds, you should begin to see some sprouting in about a week.
    • Then when you begin to see a set of true leaves and not the first tiny seeding leaves, you should thin them down to one or two seedlings for each pot.
    • Also, note that starting basil indoors with your pots should either be done beside a window (a windowsill is appropriate) or with the help of a grow light. You can also do direct outdoor seeding by putting your potted plant in your outdoor garden so far there is no danger of frost.
    • Eventually, the young seedlings of basil grown from seeds are usually transplanted into the garden outdoors. And basil plants usually do well after transplanting. Just make sure they are protected from too much wind or sun for some days until the plant has adjusted enough.

    Why You Should Consider Growing Basil From Seed

    Even though it’s pretty easy and fast to just purchase basil seedlings from your local garden stores or even local farmers’ market. There are still some wonderful benefits to growing basil from seeds. Some of these benefits have been stated below.

    • Growing Basil From Seed Is Easy

    Growing basil from seed is an easy thing to do and does not require any special skill or tools. All you need do is to get the right information on how to go about it and you should be good to go.

    • Cost-effective

    When you decide to grow basil seeds, it becomes an easy way of saving some money because it is a budget-friendly plan.

    Why You Should Consider Growing Basil From Seed

    • Advantages Of Successive Planting

    Around the middle of summer, it may be difficult to find a healthy basil seedling. But if you want a continuous supply of high-quality basil leaves, then you can benefit from this by planting by starting a couple of basil seeds in pots. You can even grow them indoors under grow light and always have a non-stop supply of basil leaves.

    Conclusion On How Many Basil Seeds Per Pot

    So, we can see that apart from growing basil from their plant or seedlings, we can see that growing basil from seed is another easy method. It doesn’t require any special knowledge or tools. How many basil seeds per pot have also been discussed in this article.

    FAQ’s

    How many basil seeds do I need to plant in a pot?

    Ideally, you should plant about 5 to 8 basil seeds in one pot. You can commence your basil seeds indoors if the outdoor climate isn’t stable yet and you are not sure of the temperature outdoors.

    Can you grow multiple basil plants in one pot?

    It is possible to grow multiple basil plants in a single pot. However, it may be hard to maintain moisture when growing multiple basil plants in one container. So, it is recommended to use a very big pot if you plan on growing multiple basil plants in a single pot.

    How much space do you need between basil seeds?

    The ideal spacing between basil seeds should be about 2 to 3 seeds per inch in rows of 18 inches apart. However, a final spacing of basil can go around 4 to 8 inches apart for a healthier and fuller plant.

  • When To Harvest Chili Peppers – The Right Time

    When To Harvest Chili Peppers – The Right Time

    Are you a new gardener and are wondering when to harvest chili peppers and what are the signs to look out for to know they are fully mature?

    Chilies are an excellent vegetable to grow in your garden. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

    They are also used to make sauces, soups, and curries. If you don’t grow your own chilies, you can buy them at any store. Chilies are one of the most versatile and important food crops we grow in our gardens.

    You can harvest the chilies once they reach maturity, but there are several things you should watch out for so you don’t end up with under-ripe chilies or ones that won’t ripen properly.  This article will help you understand when to harvest chilies and how to tell if they are fully ripe.

    When To Harvest Chili Peppers

    How do you know if they are fully mature? Chilies are harvested when they are red or green in color. They should be firm and crisp in texture. It is not unusual to find small chilies that are ready to be harvested. 

    When To Harvest Chilli Peppers

    However, you need to keep in mind that even if the fruit seems big enough, it may still take a while to ripen. The best time to harvest is when you see the fruits starting to turn red or green. That way you can be sure that they are fully ripe.

    The best color for ripe chili peppers is red, but you can harvest it when it starts to have green color before it turns fully red.  Once harvested, chili peppers continue to ripen, however, you must harvest them maturely.

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    Harvesting Chili Peppers

    Once you know when to harvest chili peppers, it’s time to harvest your produce.  When harvesting take care of the plant as it can easily be damaged if you pull the peppers too much.

    1. Get a pair of scissors and cut off the pepper stalk from the main plant.  This way there is no pulling or tugging of the plant. 
    2. When you have removed all of the peppers, make sure to clean them and then dry them for storage.
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    How To Store Your Chilies

    Did you know you can use fresh chili peppers? To make salsa, cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds and then finely chop them. You can add this mixture to a dish or drink.

    You can also add chopped peppers to your favorite salad. If you want to make a soup, you can add the peppers to the soup right before serving. If you are going to use your chilies in a dish that requires cooking, it is best to remove the seeds from the first.

    Store your dried chilies in a cool and dry place. The best way to dry your chilies is with a food dehydrator.  You can either hang them on a string or wrap them on paper, as the paper will keep the humidity low.

    The chilies can also be stored in an airtight container. As long as they are kept dry, they will last for up to one to two years. You can use your dried chilies in many different dishes.  They can be used in sauces, soups, stews, casseroles, and many other dishes.

    You can also grind them into powder. This powder is great for adding flavor to many dishes. Chili peppers can be added to many dishes.

    Final Comments On When To Harvest Chili Peppers

    The best time when to harvest chili peppers is when they are red or green.  Many varieties of peppers take about 70-100 days from planting to maturity.

    When the fruits are fully matured, they should have a good red or green appearance with a firm texture.  The fruit should also have a strong flavor and aroma.  However, if you want to harvest them early, the fruits will have a softer texture. 

    This is especially true for bell peppers. You can start harvesting bell peppers 10-14 days after the fruit begins to form.  Simply pick up the fruits with scissors or carefully with your hands, put them into a produce bag, and place them in your refrigerator.

    FAQ

    How do I know when my chilli peppers are ready to pick?

    If you have fresh peppers, they will be pliable and feel firm. If they are older or if they are starting to dry out, they will be brittle and will feel hard. They should be red or green in color.

    How long can you leave chillies on the plant?

    Generally, it’s not a good idea to leave chillies on the plant too long as they may start to rot. We suggest that you harvest them soon after maturity.

    Can you harvest chilli peppers when they are green?

    Yes, you can harvest chili peppers when they are green.

    How do you pick chillies off plants?

    There are a few ways to harvest your chillies. If you want to use the whole pepper, you can simply pluck it from the plant.

    If you are going to harvest them by hand, simply pluck the pepper from the plant. You should pluck it off with your fingers.

    Alternatively, if you are going to harvest them by hand, you can just cut the pepper from the plant. You should cut the pepper from the plant with a sharp knife or a pair of scissors.

    If you are going to use a tool, then you can use a pepper harvester. It is designed to hold the pepper at the top of the plant and then shake it down to harvest it. 

    We recommend storing chillies in the fridge but don’t wash them before storing them. Chillies will continue to ripen and change colour in the fridge. They will also stay fresher for longer. You can also store chillies in an air-tight container.

  • A Quick Guide On Butternut Squash Spacing

    A Quick Guide On Butternut Squash Spacing

    Butternut squash which is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family along with gourds and pumpkins is a type of winter squash. The plant of butternut squash tends to grow on a trailing vine and it is fairly easy to grow especially from seed. Butternut squash spacing is what we will be discussing in this post.

    Butternut squash is an annual plant and it can do well and grow well in almost any climate. The best period to plant butternut squash is in spring that following the last frost of the season. It can take about three to four months from planting for the fruit of butternut squash to be ready for picking.

    Now because the vines of butternut squash are inclined to grow faster, it is appropriate you get to know the right spacing for this plant. Butternut squash spacing is what you will learn about in this post. We will also touch on some other related aspects concerning butternut.

    Growing Butternut Squash

    Before we look into butternut squash spacing, let’s first look into how to grow this plant the right way.

    ·         Seed Sowing

    The seed of butternut squash can be commenced either indoors or outdoors. We recommend you start your seeds indoors if the warm season in your region is short.

    So, indoor seeds should be commenced indoor at least six weeks before the expected last frost. Ideally, two seeds should be sown per pot or container then once seedlings begin to sprout thin one of them. Ensure you position your plant in a sunny window or a greenhouse.

    Growing Butternut Squash - Seed Sowing

    Then make sure you harden off your seedlings before transplanting outdoors once the danger of frost has elapsed.

    Alternatively, you can sow the seeds of butternut squash outdoors directly into the soil. Just make sure the danger of frost has elapsed and the soil is warm properly. A temperature of about 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit is safe enough for seed sowing. This is a crucial thing to note because the seeds of butternut squash are very fragile and will only germinate in warm soil.

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    ·         Prioritize Sunny Spot – Butternut Squash Spacing

    The plant of butternut squash will do excellently well in a sunny spot so ensure you prioritize a sunny area. Full sunlight is what this plant required, but at least 6 hours of sunlight is required by the butternut squash plant daily should do fine.

    The plant can even benefit from more time under sunlight but just make sure the plant isn’t overheated.

    ·         Soil Preparation And Fertilization

    They will do well in well-draining soil. Butternut plants are heavy feeders so ensure you prepare your soil with adequate organic matter. You can start by using very rich soil. Then during the middle of the growing season, you can go ahead and side dress the soil with organic compost or aged manure.

    Soil can be slightly acidic to neutral and the pH can range around 5.5 to 7.0.

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    ·         Create A Hill

    Most vining vegetables are grown using a hill, so butternut squash can also be grown on a hill. You should gather the soil to form a small hill of about 18 inches tall and do these before you grow your seeds.

    Then go ahead and bury the seed below the soil surface. The seeds should be sown in a group of 4 to 6 and they should be sown into the soil about half an inch or one inch deep.

    ·         Water Your Plant – Butternut Squash Spacing

    Ensure you water tour butternut squash adequately and aim for moist soil but avoid soggy soil. Watering when the seedling is young is more necessary because, at this stage, they are more susceptible to drought. It is crucial you don’t allow the seedlings of butternut squash to dry out.

    Also, avoid splashing water all over the plant so the leaves can stay dry. So, aim to water the base of the plant, especially the soil.

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    Butternut Squash Spacing: Guide On The Ideal Spacing

    When it comes to the spacing of butternut squash, this plant can take some good space. They are a rapidly growing trailing vine plant.

    Also, butternut squash is more susceptible to some diseases such as powdery mildew. This is a fungus disease that changes the color of the leave to grayish-white. This is why it is again important to space this plant properly.

    So, for this reason, it is logical for you to know the appropriate spacing for the plant so it can grow optimally.

    So, as you plant your butternut seeds in a group, ensure you space the seeds about 4 inches apart. This will prevent overcrowding once the butternut squash plant begins to grow.

    Then if you’re making use of hills to grow your butternut squash, try to space each hill to at least 8 feet apart.

    You can also get the ideal spacing requirement from the pack of your butternut squash.

    Apart from the proper spacing of the butternut squash, it is important to also thin this plant. Thinning can help increase air circulation around the plant thereby minimizing the susceptibility of butternut squash plants from getting diseases.

    Growing Butternut Squash In Containers

    You may be wondering if it’s possible to grow butternut squash in containers since this plant grows fast and requires enough space.

    Although butternut squash requires adequate space to grow, it is still possible to grow this squash in a container and get a decent result or harvest. This can even be beneficial to you if you are short of space and you wish to grow this squash.

    Also, this plant doesn’t have large, extended roots so they don’t extend their root so much. So, this makes it possible for this plant to be grown in a container.

    Growing Butternut Squash In Containers

    Final Thoughts On Butternut Squash Spacing

    Butternut squash spacing is an important thing to take note of when you have decided to grow this squash. We have explained the ideal spacing requirements for this great tasting squash so do well to follow the right spacing when planting butternut.

    FAQ’s

    How far apart should you plant butternut squash?

    Spacing is important in butternut squash planting because this will help your plant grow optimally. When planting butternut squash using hills, the ideal spacing for each hill should be about8 feet. Then the spacing for each seed in a hill should be about 4 inches apart.

    What happens if you plant squash too close together?

    Planting butternut too close can cause overcrowding which will be unhealthy for the plant. Again, planting butternut squash too close together is not recommended because this can predispose the plant to fungus diseases such as powdery mildew.