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Category: Organic Food

  • A Guide To Planting Cilantro In A Pot

    A Guide To Planting Cilantro In A Pot

    Planting cilantro in a pot provides you with an opportunity to grow your herbs even if you don’t have a garden.

    Cilantro is a herb that belongs to the family of cumin, coriander and parsley. The leaves of this plant are used in cooking different dishes like salads and soups. It has a sweet, yet slightly bitter taste.

    You can also use it in Mexican food dishes and curries. This plant can be planted in a garden or in a pot. You can also plant cilantro in a greenhouse.

    This article will show you how to plant cilantro in a pot. It will help you learn how to grow your herbs from seed indoors and outdoors.

    A Complete Guide To Planting Cilantro In A Pot

    Before you start planting cilantro, make sure that you have all the materials needed. These materials include:

    • Pot
    • Seeds
    • Soil
    • A source of light

    2 Types of Cilantro Seeds – 250 Calypso & 250 Santo Cilantro Seeds for Planting Indoors

    Planting Cilantro In A Pot
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    Step By Step – Planting Cilantro In A Pot 

    1. Find a pot that will hold about one liter of water. The pot should be shallow with a drainage hole at the bottom.
    2. The soil should be loose and well-drained.
    3. Cilantro requires a good amount of sun, so choose a spot where it can get plenty of sunlight. You may also want to consider planting it in a container, as this allows you to move it around if you feel like it is not growing well.
    4. Choose a seed that has already sprouted. Cilantro is a biennial plant and will only sprout once every two years. It should be planted in spring or fall, depending on where you live. If you have seeds already sprouted, make sure that they are in a warm place where there is air movement. Remove any old leaves and dirt from the seedlings. You do not want the cilantro to be dirty.
    5. When you are ready to plant your cilantro, take the pot outside and fill it with the soil and water. You should keep the soil moist, but not so wet that it will start to rot.
    6. As the cilantro grows, it will begin to produce new leaves. Your cilantro will be ready for harvest in about two weeks.
    7. Harvest your cilantro by cutting the leaves at 1 1/2 inches long. When you have cut all of the cilantro, wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects. You can dry your cilantro by hanging it up to dry and it will be ready to use after three weeks.
    8. Cilantro is a great addition to soups, salads, tacos, and rice dishes. Cilantro is also used as a herb for tea. You can make a cilantro tea by adding one tablespoon of cilantro leaves to a cup of boiling water. Let the leaves steep for 10 minutes, then strain the leaves out of the water.

    Why Grow Cilantro In A Pot?

    There are a number of ways for planting cilantro in a pot.  Cilantro is a member of the mint family. Some people grow it in pots, others on trellises or on stakes, and some grow it in a hanging basket. We decided to grow cilantro in a pot because it provides a safer place to grow compared to growing in the garden.

    Tips For Growing Healthy Cilantro In A Pot

    • If you want to grow cilantro indoors, you will need a pot with drainage holes.
    • You can add fish fertilizer or use water-soluble fertilizer to feed your plants.
    • You can plant seeds directly in the soil or you can transplant seedlings from a nursery.
    • When you’re ready to plant seeds, put them in a small dish of water and let them sit until they are germinated. This could take anywhere from 1-2 days.
    • Once you have a few seedlings, transfer them into the soil. Be sure to keep the soil damp as you do this.
    • To make sure your plants stay healthy, water them regularly. Water every day, but only when the soil feels dry, and keep an eye out for pests.
    • Cilantro is a herb and is not fussy about temperature. You can grow it inside or outside in the summer months.
    • Keep your cilantro well away from other plants. If you have a greenhouse, keep your cilantro on the top shelf.

    To harvest your cilantro, pull the leaves from the stem and store them in a glass jar with a lid. It’s best to use fresh cilantro right away.

    Tips To Growing Healthy Cilantro In A Pot

    In Summary Of Planting Cilantro In A Pot

    Planting cilantro in a pot should be easy and quick. It is recommended to plant cilantro seeds in small pots. You may want to choose small pots with a diameter of eight cm or more. The height of the pot should be at least 18-20 cm.

    The pot should contain enough soil for cilantro to grow well. Water the pot well before you plant it. When planting cilantro, you can use most types of soil.

    Cilantro seedlings will grow very fast. You can plant cilantro seeds at the beginning of April, as long as the last frost has already occurred.

    Cilantro plants need a lot of water for the first two weeks. However, after that, they only need to be watered 1-2 times per week. Cilantro plants need fertilizers in the beginning and middle of their growth period.

    When planting cilantro in a pot, you should use ¼ cup of nitrogen-based fertilizer (21-0-0) for every 25 square feet of growing area. Cilantro plants should be fertilized one to two times per growing season.

    FAQ’s

    Does cilantro grow well in pots?

    Yes, it grows very well and will do best in a larger pot with ample water.  Remember, too much water will cause it to rot and die. 

    How many cilantro plants can I grow in a pot?

    You can plant as many as you want depending on the size of your pot.  The larger the pot, the more cilantro plants you can grow. 

    Does cilantro need sun or shade?

    Cilantro does not need sun but it needs good light.  It will grow well in a bright window sill if you are careful about keeping the soil moist.  When growing it outdoors, select a site hat does not receive direct sun rather choose one that has partial sun and shade. 

    How to grow cilantro in a pot?

    Cilantro is a tropical herb. It needs a warm temperature and lots of water.  You can grow it indoors or outside in pots.  It is easy to grow. You only need to water once or twice a week and it is ready for harvest after six weeks. 

  • What You Need To Know About The Best PH For Tomatoes

    What You Need To Know About The Best PH For Tomatoes

    Best pH for tomatoes, do you know what this is? If you are interested in growing tomatoes, there are a few factors you must look out for such as soil nutritional content, soil pH level, the amount of sunlight to expose the plant to, and the best time to plant. All of these have a way of affecting the overall result that is achieved at the end of the day.

    Tomatoes are one of the very important vegetables that is used by many for cooking and preparing different delicacies. Its nutritional benefits are numerous ranging from reduction of the risk of heart disease and cancer to being a great source of vitamin C and K potassium and folate.

    This article considers the best pH for tomatoes to grow and attain the best possible result. Things that may be done in situations where the pH level is too high or too low to bring it to the desired levels are also discussed.

    What Is pH? – Best pH For Tomatoes

    When we talk about pH of a plant, we are referring to if your soil is acidic, alkaline, or in a few cases neutral. The scale of pH usually ranges from 0 to 14.

    It is crucial you know your soil pH before planting because it can determine how available nutrients will be supplied to your plant. This will therefore help your plant thrive well.

    Tomatoes pH Level Requirement

    The ideal soil pH to grow tomatoes is anywhere between levels 6.0 and 6.8 according to research. Although this is the ideal levels, tomatoes can also grow in soils with acidic levels as low as 5.5 on the pH scale.

    If you desire your tomatoes plant to be healthier and blossom as when due, then you must strive to maintain the soil pH level. The farther the tomatoes plant strays from this range, the lower your yields.

    Any soil that is too acidic will generally slow the growth of tomato plants and ultimately reduce harvest. Where the soil is too acidic, it also leads to nutrient deficiencies, resulting in a problem like an end rot on tomato fruit.

    A similar result is bound to be attained where the soil has a high alkaline content. As such, pH levels against 6.8 would greatly affect the growth and yield of the tomatoes plant.

    How To Test The pH Level Of Soil – Best pH For Tomatoes

    In a bid to prevent the problems associated with planting your tomatoes in soil that does not meet the pH requirements, ensure to test the soil. Testing a soil’s pH level can be done in various ways.

    One way of doing this is by sending a sample of your soil to a lab for testing and thereafter waiting for the result. Another way would be to buy the test kits and test on your own using an easy time-saving method.

    Luster Leaf 1601 Rapitest Test Kit for Soil pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potash, 1 Pack

    Best pH For Tomatoes
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    How To Lower The Soil pH Levels – Best pH For Tomatoes

    Where you discover after your testing that your soil pH level is above 6.8, you may need to lower this level. The following are a few ways to achieve this:

    • Use of Compost: If you add compost to your soil, it will not only feed your soil with very valuable nutrients, it will also help stabilize the pH level. Where the pH is too high, it helps lower it, and when it is too low, it helps increase it. So it’s both manure and pH balancer.
    • Sulfur: The use of sulfur is another way to balance the soil’s pH levels. The use of sulfur just like compost helps to balance the soil’s pH levels. You should however be careful not to add too much sulfur to the soil as this may be harmful to plants.
    • Sphagnum Peat Moss: This is a slow-acting agent for the amendment of the soil’s organic content and pH levels. It is also a good substance to help improve water retention and aeration in your soil.

    How To Increase The Soil pH Levels

    There are also instances where results will show that the soil has very low pH levels (highly acidic) and there is a need to increase the pH levels. The following can be done to get the pH levels increased:

    • Addition of Compost: If you add compost to your soil, it will not only feed your soil with very valuable nutrients, it will also help stabilize the pH level. Where the pH is too high, it helps lower it, and when it is too low, it helps increase it.
    • Limestone (calcium): This is one of the most common ways to lower the soil’s pH levels. By adding limestone to the soil, calcium bicarbonate is formed which helps to improve the soil’s pH levels.
    How To Increase The Soil pH Levels
    • Wood Ashes: This is one of the natural ways to amend the acidic nature of soil as they contain calcium carbonate. Where you have a fireplace, spreading some ashes from the fireplace on the soil may be of great assistance here.
    • Removal of Pine Needles: Recent research has shown that pine needles do not substantially affect soil pH levels. However, freshly dropped pine needles have been discovered to be a very good neutralizer of soil pH.

    Conclusion On Best pH For Tomatoes

    Growing tomatoes require consideration for a number of things. The soil pH level is one of those items that must be considered before growing tomatoes. It is very important to carry out a test to determine the soil’s pH level before growing for the purpose of getting the desired result.

    Where after your test it is discovered that the soil’s pH level is too low or too high, steps can be taken to amend these levels to an appropriate state. These are well discussed in this article.

    FAQ’s

    How do you acidify soil for tomatoes?

    Tomatoes require soil pH levels of 6.0 to 6.8, which is an acidic level. Where this is not the current level of your soil, you may acidify the soil by doing any of the following: addition of compost, sulfur, peat moss, and chelated fertilizer. All of these will help in making sure that the soil is acidified to the right levels.

    What is the best pH levels for tomatoes?

    If you require your tomatoes to blossom and give out fruit bountifully, then the soil’s pH level should be between 6.0 and 6.8. Any level below or above this is not the ideal pH condition for planting tomatoes.

    Do tomatoes prefer acidic or alkaline soil?

    Acidic soil is a soil with pH level below 7, while alkaline soil is one with a pH level above 7. Considering the fact that tomatoes thrive in soil with pH level 6.0 to 6.8, it is correct to say it does well in acidic soils.

    What is the best pH for hydroponic tomatoes?

    Hydroponic tomatoes are those tomatoes grown in a nutrient solution instead of soil. They can as such be grown indoors without natural light and the desired result actualized. Hydroponic tomatoes will usually give the best possible result when grown in a pH condition of 6.0 to 6.5.

  • Get To Know The Difference Between Summer Squash And Zucchini

    Get To Know The Difference Between Summer Squash And Zucchini

    The difference between summer squash and zucchini may be on your mind. Not to worry because this post is all about educating you about this and even more.

    The terms zucchini and summer squash are usually used interchangeably especially when it comes to food recipes.

    You might have even been in a situation where you’ve searched the whole supermarket shelves for zucchini only to find nothing. Then you just decide to simply toss a summer squash in your shopping cart instead because you think they are the same. But are they really the same or is there a difference between them? We will find out soon.

    But before we look into the difference between summer squash and zucchini, let’s briefly look into some brief details about summer squash and zucchini.

    Brief About Zucchini

    Although zucchini is often referred to as a vegetable, botanically speaking, it is actually a type of fruit. But you can still refer to them as vegetables. It belongs to the family of Cucurbitaceae together with other types of fruits such as cucumbers and gourds.

    They are vining herbaceous plant and their fruits are usually harvested while their seeds and epicarp are still young or immature and soft or edible. The entire fruit of zucchini is totally edible so the skin, the flesh, and even the seeds are totally edible and they are rich in phytonutrients.

    Brief About Zucchini

    The fruit of zucchini is cylindrical and long and it has this mild, sparingly sweet flavor. The color of the fruit is deep green and it has this soft white flesh. However, you may occasionally find a golden-yellow variety of zucchini. The taste of zucchini tends to be mild and it has this slightly sweet flavor.

    Usually, it is the color of zucchini that is one of the most common ways of distinguishing between summer squash and zucchini. Then normally, the color of summer squash tends to be a bright shade of yellow compared to the zucchini forest green trademark.

    Check Out When To Pick Yellow Squash? Find Out Here

    Brief About Summer Squash

    Summer squash is a warm season crop that can be grown anytime so far the weather conditions are warm and frost free. When we talk about summer squash, it can encompass many varieties of freshly harvested squash that are usually picked during the summer months.

    The truth of the matter is that zucchini is also a summer squash plant family. And zucchini is included in other summer squash families such as pattypan squash, crookneck squash, and yellow squash. This implies that all zucchini can be referred to as summer squash. However, not all summer squash are zucchini because summer squash has different varieties of other squash apart from zucchini.

    Now, that we have some ideas about what zucchini and summer squash is, we can now look into the differences if there are any.

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    Differences Between Summer Squash And Zucchini: Zucchini vs Squash

    As we mentioned earlier, zucchini is also a type of summer squash. The difference between these two isn’t so much. But here are some differences we can find about these two squash:

    1.    Colors

    The main difference between these two squash is their color. Zucchini is mostly dark green while summer squash on the other is mostly yellow. However, there are still some zucchini varieties that are yellow and they are known as gold zucchini.

    This gold zucchini also have the same flavor as the green zucchini so you can switch them in your dishes. The yellow zucchini may not be seen frequently or at all if you try to find them at grocery stores. You may however see them once in a while at the farmers market. You can even grow it yourself.

    2.    Shape – Difference Between Summer Squash And Zucchini

    Apart from color being the difference between zucchini and summer squash, the shape of these squash is another difference we can look at. A little closer look at their shapes can tell their differences.

    For the shape of zucchini, it has this straight, even shape. Then summer squash on the other hand has this thick and wider near the bottom and a narrow shape at the top. So, even if you find a zucchini and summer squash of the same color lying side by side, you should be able to tell the differences in their shape.

    3.    Slicing – Difference Between Summer Squash And Zucchini

    It is believed that you may get the difference between zucchini and summer squash when you slice them apart. When you cut them apart, summer squash may have fewer seeds compared to zucchini.

    What About The Flavor: Does Summer Squash And Zucchini Taste Different?

    When it comes to the flavor of both zucchini and summer squash, they tend to taste similar. So, it will be pretty easy to just use either zucchini or summer squash interchangeably in your recipe.

    Can You Swap Zucchini For Summer Squash?

    The fact that zucchini and summer squash taste similar, makes them easy to be swapped easily. These two types of squash also have similar appearances from the inside. Therefore, you can easily use zucchini or summer squash interchangeably for your kitchen recipe.

    Both zucchini and summer squash have this mid-taste and that slightly firm texture. You may not even notice so much difference in their taste. So, if you are probably having trouble finding one of these squash, you can simply go for either and it won’t even affect the flavor of your dish.

    You may even make a unique recipe with these squash by simply including or mixing a little of each of these squash in your dish to make your plate look more colorful and appetizing.

    Can You Swap Zucchini For Summer Squash

    Final Note On Difference Between Summer Squash And Zucchini

    Differences between summer squash and zucchini have been discussed in this post. So we hope we have answered most of the troubling questions you may have about the differences between these two squash.

    FAQ’s

    Can I use summer squash instead of zucchini?

    Yes. You can comfortably use summer squash instead of zucchini. You may not even notice the difference because both summer squash and zucchini tend to have a similar taste. These two squash both have a mild taste with a hint of sweetness.

    Which is healthier yellow squash or zucchini?

    Both yellow squash and zucchini have unique nutritional values that you can benefit from. For instance, squash has more beta-carotene and alpha-carotene compared to zucchini. But zucchini also contains more lutein and zeaxanthin compared to squash.

    Is squash the same as zucchini?

    Technically speaking, squash can be referred to as zucchini because zucchini is also a type of squash (zucchini is a summer squash to be precise). Apart from the difference in color and shape, zucchini and squash can be used interchangeably, especially during food recipes.

  • Do You Know When To Pick Yellow Squash? Find Out Here

    Do You Know When To Pick Yellow Squash? Find Out Here

    Yellow squash is one of the members of the squash family, with lots of nutritional benefits and the ability to grow rapidly during summer. When to pick yellow squash is one common question asked among gardeners. The yellow squash usually has a very short maturity period making it susceptible to quick picks.

    Yellow squash is summer squash, and one of the varieties of marrow squash. It is largely an edible vegetable looking very much like zucchini in shape, flavor, and texture. Yellow squash usually come in different shapes, sizes, and hues, reaching their peak during the hottest weeks of summer.

    This article offers insight into when to pick (harvest) yellow squash. So, let’s begin.

    When To Harvest Yellow Squash

    Yellow squash should get harvested when it has attained maturity. The following are a few factors that should offer you hint into whether the plant is matured for picking or not:

    Length Of The Yellow Squash – When To Pick Yellow Squash

    The longer the size of the squash, the more likely it is matured for harvesting. When the squash appears long, then most of the seeds inside are very likely matured. While it is necessary for the seeds to matured, they should not be left to get too hardened inside. The ideal length for harvesting yellow squash is when it is about six inches in length.

    Plumpness Of The Blossom End – When To Pick Yellow Squash

    As a squash begins to mature, one of the signs you will notice is the bigger it gets around the blossom end. When the plump end gets really big around, thereby leaving the neck small, then the plant is matured for harvesting.

    Color Of The Squash – When To Pick Yellow Squash

    Although yellow squash is yellow from the beginning, as they mature, you begin to notice some changes. The matured squash begins to turn dark yellow as it nears the picking stage. When it becomes overly matured, there is an orange tint to the skin.

    You Begin To Notice A Few Bad Ones – When To Pick Yellow Squash

    Where you fail to pick any of the above signs, this last sign may come in handy. When you begin to notice that a few yellow squashes are getting worse, then you are sure that maturity has been attained. A change to brown is evidence of this.

    Read more about Foods High In Nitrogen

    Picking Matured Yellow Squash – When To Pick Yellow Squash

    After you have confirmed that the squash is matured for harvesting, then you should go ahead with the harvesting process. Squash can easily get harvested by being twisted off the vine or alternatively by using scissors or a garden pruner to cut off the vine.

    You should be careful not to tug or pull fruit from the vine with force as this may result in injury to the plant. When cutting off the fruit from the vine, it is best to leave a short stem attached to the fruit as this will greatly help improve storage life.

    Due to how easily the skin of the fruit can be injured, care must be taken when going about the harvesting of this plant. This is so as to prevent wounds to the skin.

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    Tips To Note When Picking Yellow Squash

    Below are a few tips that should be considered by you when picking your matured yellow squash fruit:

    • Not all fruits and vegetables are harvested the same way: While some fruits and vegetables are harvested when they are still hard, others require softness before harvest. Some fruits can ripe after picking while others cannot. You must therefore follow the prescribed picking way.
    • The bigger fruit is not always the best: the more you leave your yellow squash attached to the vine, the bigger it gets. This however has its downside, as the seeds also get harder and tougher. If the fruit is to be used for cooking, the soft seeds are better than the hard ones.
    • Exercise care when picking: You should ensure to use both hands when picking so as to protect such plants from being injured. Also, you should take enough care to ensure that the fruit is not yanked off the vine. Doing this may cause serious harm to the plant and growth hampered.
    • Harvest in the morning; Just like most other plants, it is best to harvest the yellow squash in the morning. This allows the product to stay crisp and store longer, and this protects the fruit from becoming limp from heat during the day. Where morning is not possible, then the fruit should be harvested in the evening.
    Tips To Note When Picking Yellow Squash
    • Constant checking of the garden: When you notice that a plant is producing, you should begin frequent visits to the garden. This is to ensure that you do not miss a matured yellow plant. Constant picking encourages the plant to produce even more and as such should be done.

    Click Here to Learn:

    Storing Yellow Squash After Harvesting

    After picking the yellow squashes, you may need to harvest some when they cannot all be consumed immediately. Below are a few tips you should note when storing the summer squash:

    • Wipe the fruit with a clean damp cloth and place it in a perforated plastic bag. Thereafter, place the bag in the vegetable crisper of a refrigerator. This is one of the best ways to store and maintain the humidity of the yellow squash.
    • The temperature for storing the summer squash in the refrigerator should not be lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Where the temperature gets too low, it may result in injury symptoms in the fruit such as surface pitting, water loss, and decay.
    • Grating and freezing: Another method that may be adopted when storing summer squashes is to grate and then freeze. Grating and freezing greatly help in retaining the quality and this may last longer than just freezing.
    Storing Yellow Squash After Harvesting

    Conclusion On When To Pick Yellow Squash

    The yellow squash is one of the lovely fruits you may decide to have in your garden. However, for the best possible result to be actualized, you must be conversant with when is the best time to plant as well as pick the fruit. This article gives you proper guidance into how to go about picking the fruit.

    FAQ’s

    How to tell when squash is ready to pick?

    There are a few things you would notice in a yellow squash to give you an inkling into whether it is ready to be picked or not. These include an increase in size to no less than 6 inches, plumpness of the fruit and a change in the color of the fruit to dark yellow as opposed to bright shiny yellow for young fruits. A yellow squash is usually ready to be picked about 50 to 60 days after planting

    How do I know when yellow squash is ripe?

    You know when the yellow squash is ripe by some of the features you will notice in the fruit. These include an increase in size to no less than 6 inches, plumpness of the fruit, and a change in the color of the fruit to dark yellow as opposed to bright shiny yellow for young fruits.

    How do you pick squash off the vine?

    You pick squash off the vine by carefully holding with one hand and twisting gently. Be careful and ensure not to pull so as not to break the vine. Also, for easing of picking, you may also use a scissors or garden pruner to cut the fruit off the vine.

    Will yellow squash ripen off the vine?

    Yes, if the yellow squash is allowed to stay on the vine long enough, it will ripen on the vine. You will gradually begin to notice a change of its color to a darker yellow. At this point, know it has ripened for harvest.

  • Get To Know How Often To Water Cilantro

    Get To Know How Often To Water Cilantro

    A major question most people ask is this: how often to water cilantro? Cilantro needs special care and when you properly care for this plant, you will enjoy great results.

    There are precautionary measures that need to be adhered to when it comes to watering cilantro. If you desist from them, you may end up endangering the health of your plant.

    This thereby leads to a state of confusion as many often tend to ask about how often to water cilantro. You don’t need to look too far for the answer because we will be discussing it in this post.

    Should Cilantro Be Watered A Lot?

    Maintaining moisturized soil is important to cilantro plants. They grow well when they are being watered the right way. But, you should know that adequate water is not needed by this plant.

    Also, this plant doesn’t require a lot of water when it has grown a bit to like an inch tall. The amount of water needed by the cilantro plant is determined by whether it’s being grown outside or indoors.

    When growing cilantro indoors, it is best you water them very well. This is most especially when you’re growing them in containers and when temperatures get higher. They need to be watered thoroughly, most especially if they’ve been planted newly, for successful growth.

    Again, you need to take note that it is important that the pot and the soil or the type of garden soil you plant the cilantro in must be well-draining. This is because of the huge amount of water the plant is being supplied with.

    Should Cilantro Be Watered A Lot

    The roots of the cilantro plant are extensive, hence the soil must be well-drained. But you might also consider holding back on watering when they are grown.

    Cilantro doesn’t need much water when they are grown. In fact, to keep the plants healthy, watering them should be done at appropriate times. For instance, when you check the surface of the soil and it’s totally dry, it means water is needed.

    However, when you get the soil clogged with water when the plant is already grown, you make it easy for diseases to have access to the plants. so, just provide the right amount of watering to your plant.

    Check Out Basil Water Requirements

    What Amount Of Water Should Cilantro Be Supplied With?

    When cilantro is newly planted, water it with an inch of water every day for successful healthy growth. And when it has grown, water it with an inch of water once a week to keep it healthy. Knowing the exact amount of water cilantro needs is important in order to avoid overwatering.

    Overwatering is also not the only factor to put into consideration, under-watering should also be considered. Under-watering is a serious issue despite the fact that the plant doesn’t need to be watered much. Under-watering can lead to wilting of the leaves which causes the leaves to dry off.

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    Drought, as well as the death of the plant, can also be caused by under-watering. This is because the leaves will begin to dry and fall off and then the stems get affected.

    Click Here to Learn How To Get Rid Of Aphids On Kale?

    Can Cilantro Be Overwatered?

    The cultivating means and the nature of the soil will determine how often cilantro should be watered. The soil in which you planted your cilantro should be watered once it becomes dry for the plant. Watering should be weekly.

    However, how often to water cilantro should be dependent on whether the plant is still about to germinate or if it has grown.

    The plant needs to be watered daily when planted newly in nursery plant beds. Its healthy growth is dependent on enough watering as it helps the seeds with proper germination.

    Then when the plants have been moved to the garden, water every week with just an inch of water. However, if you don’t want to transfer your cilantro plants from the containers, then take note that watering must increase daily. This should be most especially during when temperatures begin to rise.

    A lot of watering is required if you started your plants as stem cuttings. This is because much water will be needed by the quick sprouting root to establish itself in the soil.

    Can Cilantro Be Overwatered

    Furthermore, apart from the watering at the beginning, the plants should be watered every day with at least an inch of water. Do this for two weeks, and then continue water with just an inch of water weekly.

    However, watering the plants regularly is important if you’re growing your cilantro plants in pots first before you transfer them to the ground. You may also want to know that while it is good to water cilantro plants, overwatering is a thing that is likely to happen if you don’t adhere to the right tips for watering.

    How To Know If You’re Overwatering Cilantro?

    Overwatering can have serious negative effects on cilantro plants. This can lead to the total breakdown of the plants, thereby slowing down the total wellbeing and productivity of the plant. Let’s take a look at a few signs to look out for that indicates overwatering.

    • Dark Leaves: this condition, which is known as leaf spot, affects plants in the damp and cool surroundings.
    • Fluids Start to Accumulate: the leaves and stems accumulate water and then start to bloat due to the fact that the plant is the type that doesn’t need much water. This is a condition called edema.
    • The Cilantro Leaves become Yellow: overwatering leads to the rotting of the roots. This in turn stops the nutrients, like nitrogen, that are needed for the leaves’ greenish coloration from getting to the leaves. Therefore, the leaves begin to turn yellow.
    • Mildew: overwatering also causes mildew. This condition is an indication of the presence of a fungal disease on the plant. This condition usually causes the plant to become unproductive and to also lose some of its taste and flavor. This condition, however, will not cause the death of the plant.

    Additional Say On How Often To Water Cilantro

    How often to water cilantro is an essential aspect of growing cilantro plants successfully. Without knowing how the cilantro plant should be watered, you might make a lot of mistakes in trying to get a successful outcome.

    Watering your cilantro plant evenly is a very important thing to do. Endeavor to supply the plants in garden beds with an inch of water weekly. But if you have your cilantro planted in containers, you may need to water them more frequently.

    FAQ’s

    Do you water cilantro everyday?

    It’s not necessary you water your cilantro every day. Ideally, cilantro watering should be done a few times in a week. Water when it is necessary and aim to maintain a damp but not too moist or soggy soil.

    Can you overwater cilantro?

    Yes. Cilantro plants can be over-watered and this is usually a bad thing to do. Therefore, try as much as possible to avoid overwatering to avoid the negative impact of having a soggy cilantro plant.

    How much water and sun does cilantro need?

    Ideally, the appropriate amount of watering for cilantro should be about 1 inch into the soil per week for optimal growth. However, once cilantro plants are established, too much watering isn’t too necessary. The sunlight requirement for the cilantro plant is full sun.

    How often to water cilantro in a pot

    The watering needs for growing cilantro in pots aren’t so hard to deduce. Aim to keep your soil evenly moist and avoid soaking the soil. you can aim for about 1 inch water weekly.

  • Basil Water Requirements

    Basil Water Requirements

    If you are interested in having a plant with a great scent coupled with a lovely flavor in your garden, then fresh basil should be considered. Basil is a versatile herb that is both easy to grow and very nutritious when consumed. Basil water requirements are however very important for the smooth growth of this plant.

    Basil is a very tender annual herb with a likeness for consistently moist soil. While this plant will do well in moist soil, it does not require very wet soil or dry soil. Getting the proper water content for the plant will give you the desired result.

    There are some key considerations that determine how much water should be added to the plant when being grown. So, this article gives insight into the basil plant, explaining the water requirements of the plant.

    Watering requirements for young tender basil and established basil plants are quite different. Similarly, there’s a different water requirement when growing indoors and when growing outdoors. All of these will be considered here.

    Water Requirements Of Basil Plant At Seedling Stage

    If you desire to begin your basil plant by growing seedlings, you must pay very close attention to the water you add to these plants. At the seedling stage, basil may be planted in containers or introduced straight into the ground.

    The watering of basil seedlings is largely mild and does not require deep watering like adult plants. All you are required to do is the damping of the soil. If you are able to consistently keep the soil damp, the seedlings will flourish.

    Water Requirements Of Basil Plant At Seedling Stage

    For the best possible result, you should use a sprayer or plant mister to properly moisten the very top layer of the soil. Continue to do this until the plant germinates and begins to grow comfortably. Ensure that the soil is not allowed to dry out or become soggy.

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    Basil Water Requirements For Established Plant

    The water requirement for grown and established basil plants is more intense than for young seedlings. Where the established basil plant is grown outside in the garden, then you should water every 3 to 4 days. This will be largely dependent on the amount of rainfall where the plant is grown.

    Whereas an established basil plant is grown outside in a pot, then it should be watered every 1 or 2 days, depending however on the location. Where the pot or container is placed under a shade, then evaporation is reduced, and every 2 days should be fine.

    Basil generally likes to stay moist and will thrive in about 1 inch of water every week. You should therefore water deeply so as to keep the roots growing deep in the soil moist. Just like most other plants, the best time to water the basil plant is very early in the morning.

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    Watering Frequency When Growing Basil Plant Indoors

    When growing basil plants indoors, you must pay very close attention to the plant. It is usually best to water when the top half-inch of the soil is dry to touch. The amount of sunlight the plant gets and the warmth or otherwise of the room will influence how much water you add.

    On dark, cloudy, and winter days, you may need to water less often as dryness gets increasingly difficult to attain. You should also note that plants that are grown in small pots require more frequent watering than those grown in large pots.

    Growing basil plant indoors offers you a great advantage of having this plant both in summer and winter. The weather condition outside this has very little effect on the plant.

    Watering Frequency When Growing Basil Plant Outdoors

    When growing the basil plant outdoors, you will be required to provide the plant with between 1 and 1.5 inches of water every week. This water may come naturally from rainfall or may be provided by you artificially.

    As such, the frequency of rainfall, the amount of sunlight, and the weather condition all play a vital role in determining the amount of water that should be added to the plant. As the roots grow even deeper into the ground, you may need to water more regularly.

    Where you wish to control how much water evaporates from the soil, you should consider adopting water retention techniques.  The use of mulching is one great way to achieve this. Mulching may be done with straw, shredded hardwood mulch, or grass clippings.

    When you however decide to mulch with organic materials, be careful to keep the mulch a little bit away from the plant’s crown. Likewise do not build too much mulch around the stem as this may affect the plant’s growth.

    Factors That Affect Basil Plant Watering – Basil Water Requirements

    The following are some factors That affect basil plant watering plans:

    • Drainage: Soil drainage is one of the biggest determinants of how much water the plant will require to do well. Where basil is grown in poorly drained soil, water may end up drowning the root causing root rot. Proper drainage allows for good water and oxygen to the root.
    • Vermiculite: Where you notice that the soil where you planted your basil plant keeps drying out, then you may consider the use of vermiculite. Vermiculite is a granular material that is great for growing basil and aids in water retention.
    • Environment: This is another major factor that may affect how much water your plant requires. When you plant in drier environments with lots of sunlight, the soil will dry out fast and you may need to water more regularly. Planting in a shaded area may solve this problem.
    Factors That Affect Basil Plant Watering

    Conclusion On Basil Water Requirements

    Basil as we have seen above requires sufficient water to grow properly. Care must however be taken not to add too much water or too little water to the plant.

    FAQ’s

    How do I know if my basil is over watered?

    Where your basil is over watered, you may begin to notice the following signs: yellow leaves starting from the lower leaves and working upwards, drooping and wilting leaves, stunted growth of the plant, roots become mushy and brown or black, with an obnoxious odor emitting from the soil.

    Can basil get too much water?

    Yes, the basil plant can get too much water. This is especially the case when the soil is not one that allows for good drainage. While basil requires a good supply of water, this must be regulated so as to ensure that the soil does not get wet. When the soil gets wet, the tendency of the plant suffering from over watering becomes high.

    How much to water basil?

    Basil generally likes to stay moist and as such, they require no less than 1 inch of water every week. You should also water deeply at least once a week to keep the roots growing deep moist. Where the plant is grown in containers, the need for watering increases.

    How often to water basil plant?

    Basil plants should be watered regularly, depending on the weather condition, soil drainage condition, whether planted outdoors or indoors. You should however ensure that in total, the plant gets no less than 1 inch of water every week.

  • How Do Artichokes Grow?

    How Do Artichokes Grow?

    With elegant and distinctive leaves, very endearing to the eyes and aesthetic to the environment, artichokes are a wonder to the eyes. It serves as a very important and nutritious addition to your vegetable garden. Its ability to thrive in different climatic conditions makes it all the more endearing.

    Growing artichokes is relatively easy as you are only required to note a few things and follow the right process. When you time your planting period properly, ensure you plant on good soil and water the plant regularly, yield is sure to be bountiful.

    Knowing how do artichokes grow and the intricacies involved in caring for the plant goes a long way to influence harvest. This article gives insight into how to grow and care for the artichoke plant. The proper time for planting, the time to expect harvest amongst others are explained here.

    However, before we delve into how to grow and care for artichokes for the best possible result to be attained, let’s consider a few facts about the plant. An understanding of what artichokes plant really is will influence your decision to have them in your garden and how you go about caring for them.

    Things To Know about Artichoke – How Do Artichokes Grow

    Understanding a few facts about the artichoke plant will give you insight into growing and caring for the plant. The buds of the plant are the artichokes that you can harvest and eat. If allowed to flower, it becomes thistle-like and purple.

    Artichokes are usually large to behold and can be grown in rows in the garden, or grown as informal boundaries or planted in the wide border. This plant has the ability to grow as high as 3 to 5 feet under the right conditions.

    Things To Know about Artichoke

    A single plant can produce many artichokes, with the biggest bud growing at the top, while the others below it. The artichokes are mostly edible, and best harvested when the flower bud is still immature and green.

    This plant has the ability to survive both in warm and cold climatic conditions without growth being affected.

    How To Plant Artichokes Seeds

    If you intend to begin growing artichokes from seed, you should ensure to do the following:

    • Prepare Soil Indoors: it’s best that you plant artichoke seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. This is best done about two months before the weather outside is ready for transplanting. the soil should be well-drained and rich in organic materials or fertilized.
    • Sow your Seeds: after the soil meets the above specification has been prepared indoors, you should sow. sowing should be done about three or four inches apart and about half an inch deep into the soil.
    • Water Regularly: after planting the seeds, ensure to keep the soil bed evenly moist. You should be careful not to get the soil too wet as your seedlings begin to sprout.
    • Thinning: it is always best to plant a little more than what you actually need, just in case some don’t germinate. So when the seedlings grow, you can thin them so that there is only one plant growing from a particular spot.

    • Transplant to a Permanent Location: when you are done vernalizing your seedlings, you may transplant them into your garden bed. Ensure to do this carefully so as not to disturb the root of the plant as this may affect the growth.
    • Spacing after Transplant: after transplanting the seeds, you should space them about 2.5 to 3 feet apart in rows of about 3 to 4 feet apart. Transplants usually have a slow growth between October through January. But growth improves significantly in early spring.
    • Water: after transplanting your seeds to their permanent site, ensure to water them regularly and nourish their new home with the right nutrients.

    How Long Does It take for Artichokes To grow?

    You must know this from the onset. Artichokes are relatively slow growers. They would as such take between 85 to 120 days of the proper weather condition-spring or summer, to produce flowers.

    However, some varieties of this plant do not produce flowers until about two years after planting. Choosing the right variety and exposing it to the right conditions is therefore paramount.

    It is imperative to note however that vernalization usually encourages the plant to produce flowers in its first year.

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    Tips On Growing And Caring For Artichokes

    For the best possible result to be achieved, you should adopt the following tips when growing this plant:

    • Seed Variety: there are different seed varieties you can grow which will help with the desired result. These include the Green Globe, Violetto, Imperial Star, and Emrald. These varieties will flow quickly and usually grow faster and better than others.
    • Climatic Conditions: artichokes are naturally coo-season plants. They, therefore, do better when the daytime temperature is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nighttime temperature is about 15 degrees cooler. Therefore, they excel in areas with cool summer.
    • Sunlight: this plant is best grown in full sun. This means they require about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Where, however, very hot and dry summer is witnessed in your area, you can plant them in shades.
    • Water: this plant requires a lot of water to survive. As such, you should water regularly throughout the growing season. You should even add weeds to cover some part of the plant to protect the moisture content until buds begin to form.
    • Harvesting: you should harvest artichoke buds when they have swelled but are still tightly closed. You can use a sharp knife to cut across the stem just about 2 inches below the bud.
    • Pests and Diseases: very few pests and diseases affect this plant. However, slugs, aphids, botrytis can be a few disturbers of this plant. Removing affected and discolored leaves as soon as you notice them will help prevent a spread. You can also use pesticides occasionally.
    Tips On Growing And Caring For Artichokes

    How Do Artichokes Grow: Conclusion

    How do artichokes grow? By, now, you must now have an idea of how artichokes grow and what to expect when you plant them in your garden. The intricacies involved in growing this plant have also been demystified in this article.

    Be sure to observe these guides when planting or caring for artichokes. If you do, then your good yield will be guaranteed.

    FAQ’s

    How long do artichokes take to grow?

    Artichokes are relatively slow growers. Depending on the variety and the prevailing condition, they would as such take between 85 to 120 days of the proper weather condition-spring or summer, to produce flowers. They can also take a longer period to grow in other prevailing conditions.

    How tall do artichokes grow?

    Also, depending on the variety and the prevailing conditions, this plant has the ability to grow as tall as anywhere between 3 to 5 feet.

    How many artichokes do you get from one plant?

    A healthy artichoke plant should be able to produce between 6 and 9 buds. This means a healthy plant should be able to produce about 6 to 9 artichokes.

    How much space do I need to grow artichokes?

    The appropriate outdoor spacing for artichokes being planted on the garden bed is about 2.5 to 3 feet apart in rows of about 3 to 4 feet apart. The number of artichokes you wish to plant will therefore influence how much space you may need to get to grow them.