Category: Plants

  • A Guide On How To Give Plants Calcium

    A Guide On How To Give Plants Calcium

    This guide will look at how to give plants calcium and how much fertilizer you should add to your plants as they grow.

    Calcium is an essential element for all plants, as it is important for growth and development in plants. In addition, calcium is also required for is required for structural roles in the cell wall and membranes. It is also involved in cell division.

    How To Give Plants Calcium?

    Calcium is an important nutrient for plants as it is often deficient in soil due to weathering and soil acidity. Calcium is also important for plant growth and development and is essential for seed germination, stem and root elongation, and flowering. The concentration of calcium in some soils is too low to support optimal plant growth.

    What is the best source of calcium for plants?

    Here are two ways how to give plants calcium:

    Cal-Mag

    Calcium can be added to your plants’ water through the use of a calcium product called Cal-Mag. It is highly fortified calcium, magnesium, and iron plant supplement that is designed to correct common deficiencies in the soil. 

    The amount of calcium released from Cal-Mag will depend on how much calcium is available in your soil, how much water you use in your garden, and the amount of calcium that your plants need. You can add Cal-Mag to your plants’ water by following the directions that come with the Cal-Mag. It is ideal for use on lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, fruit, and flowers. 

    A typical dose of Cal-Mag is one teaspoon with one gallon of water. Alternatively, you can add Cal-Mag to your soil or compost. The amount of calcium that needs to be added to the soil or compost will depend on how much calcium is available in the soil and what your plants need.

    Foliar feeding

    Calcium can also be added directly to the plant, in which case it is known as foliar feeding. This is a calcium compound that is applied directly to the leaves of the plant and is absorbed by the plant. The amount of calcium released from foliar feeds will depend on how much calcium is available in the soil, the amount of water used by your plants, and the amount of calcium that your plants need.

    You can apply foliar feeds either with a sprayer. Foliar feeds can be bought at nurseries, but they are also sold through some garden centers.

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    How Do I Know If My Plants Are Getting Enough Calcium?

    If you have read the previous sections of this chapter, you will have already learned how to give plants calcium. There are two ways to check the calcium level in your soil:

    Calcium can be measured using a soil test kit. The kit will tell you the calcium level of your soil and the calcium level of your soil so that you can assess whether or not your plants are getting enough calcium.

    A soil test kit is only as accurate as the information that you give it. If you decide to use a soil test kit, then follow these steps:

    • Find a store that sells soil test kits that can test for calcium levels.
    • Buy one and take it home.
    • Take a few samples of your soil and carefully follow the directions.
    • Put the samples into the soil test kit.
    • Wait for the results.

    Once the results are out, review the calcium levels of the soil to see how much calcium your plants are getting. Soil test kits usually measure other nutrients in the soil as well.

    Be sure to research the calcium needs of your plants. The amount of calcium a plant needs can vary by the type of plant.

    Calcium is often included in fertilizers because it helps strengthen plant roots. This can help plants grow larger and healthier.

    If You Want To Fertilize Your Plants With Calcium, Follow These Steps:

    Choose a fertilizer that has high levels of calcium. Carefully follow the instructions on the fertilizer. If your plants do not seem to be growing as well, try adjusting the pH of the soil or adding more compost.

    Fertilizer is available in many different forms such as granular and liquid. Read the label on the package before purchasing as not every fertilizer can be used for every plant. Follow the directions on the package for use.

    Final Comments: How to Give Plants Calcium

    Calcium is an essential nutrient for healthy plant growth and it’s important to learn how to give plants calcium. Plants absorb calcium from the soil as they grow.

    When plants start to die or are stressed, calcium in the soil may be absorbed by the roots and translocated into the plants.  The amount of calcium available in your soil will determine how much is needed by the plants you are growing.

    Read more about How Much Water Do Peppers Need? 

    FAQs

    What is the best source of calcium for plants?

    Plants need calcium to develop and grow. It is an essential element for all plants for structural roles in the cell wall and membranes. It is also involved in cell division.

    How do I feed my plant’s calcium?

    Feeding your plants calcium is easy and can be done through fertilizer, a foliar spray or through foliar feeding. Calcium is a major component of the cell walls of leaf tissues, so when calcium is present in the cell, there are fewer spaces for pathogenic organisms to enter and cause disease. Calcium also has other benefits, such as increasing the rate of photosynthesis, improving fruit quality and increasing the rate of root growth.

    How do you fix calcium deficiency in plants?

    The best way to feed your plants calcium is through foliar feeding. You can use a foliar spray that contains calcium or foliar feeding with calcium-rich fertilizers.

    What can you add to the soil to increase calcium?

    There are many ways to improve calcium availability in the soil, including the use of lime and eggshells. If you have enough calcium in your soil, you won’t need to add more to your soil. However, if your soil is deficient in calcium, you can add it by using a foliar feeding solution containing calcium. You can also apply a calcium-rich fertilizer to your plants.

  • How Much Water Do Peppers Need? – Important Facts!

    How Much Water Do Peppers Need? – Important Facts!

    How much water do peppers need and how often should you water your pepper plants? It is important to know the growing requirements for peppers if you plan on having them in your garden.

    Peppers are a very popular garden plant.  They grow fast, are easy to grow, and taste great!  But when you start to look into the specifics of how to grow peppers, there is a lot of conflicting information. 

    The most common advice for growing peppers is to give them regular watering.  But how much water is that and what about the frequency?  Should you water them once a day, or twice?

    How Much Water Do Peppers Need? 

    When growing peppers, you want to give them regular water. There are a few factors that will influence how often you should water your peppers. They include weather, location, variety, and whether you are growing your pepper plant indoors or outdoors.

    You should water your peppers when the soil is dry.  Water the peppers about once to twice a week, providing about one to two inches of water a week. 

    When the weather is hot, you will need to water your pepper plants more often, such as two to three days a week. If you have been experiencing lots of rainy weather, then you will have to water your peppers less.

    Be careful not to over-water your pepper plants. Too much water can cause wilted leaves and rain rot. In addition, it may also cause sunburned fruit or may cause the leaves to drop.

    When you are ready to harvest, you should cut the peppers off at the stem. The size and color of the pepper will vary on the variety. 

    How often should a pepper plant be watered?

    Growing Peppers: How Much Water Do Peppers Need?

    Growing peppers is easy and most gardeners have been able to grow their peppers.  Here is a step-by-step guide to growing peppers.

    Step 1:  Choose an ideal location

    A sunny location with at least six hours of sunlight is best for growing peppers, but they can also be grown in partial shade.

    Step 2:  Choose the right soil

    Peppers need rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter to provide nutrients and retain moisture. They can grow in all types of soils but do best in soils that are heavier and well-drained.

    Step 3:  Prepare the area

    Dig over the area to remove all weeds.  Ensure the soil is well aerated and has proper drainage.

    Step 4: Add compost

    Tsing compost to grow your peppers is important as it provides nutrients required for your plants.  Compost provides nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

    Step 5:  Plant the seedlings

    Make sure that the seedlings are 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety.  If you don’t have enough space to plant them, you can try to transplant them from another location. 

    It is recommended that the plants be transplanted when they are about three to four weeks old, when they begin to produce their third set of true leaves,  When planting, make sure that the seedlings are not touching each other and don’t crowd the roots.

    Step 6:  Water the seedlings

    They should be watered regularly until they get about 3-4 inches tall, every few days to daily. After this stage, you can stop watering them and let them dry out for about a week.  

    Step 7:  Fertilize your peppers

    Fertilize your peppers when first transplanting them and then again when they start to bloom. It is a good idea to use a 5-10-10 fertilizer. 

    Step 8:  Harvest your peppers

    When the peppers get to maturity, harvest them by cutting them off the stem. Store them at room temperature for a few days or in the fridge for around a week. 

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    The growth process of peppers is an easy one.  They can be susceptible to pests and diseases but are generally hardy plants to grow. Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and hornworms.

    They eat the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plants.  Aphids are small insects, which have green or brown bodies.

    Final Thoughts – How Much Water Do Peppers Need?

    The amount of water that peppers require is about one to two inches of water a week.  The best way to learn how much water do peppers need is to provide your peppers with water around once to twice a week. Peppers are easy to grow and give you a thriving crop if you provide the right growing conditions.

    If you harvest your peppers when they are fully mature, they can last longer and you can harvest more from the same plant.  Be careful not to damage the plant as you harvest the peppers or you will lose the rest of the harvests.  Use a sharp knife or a pair of scissors to cut the pepper from its plant instead of pulling it out.  Happy gardening!

    Read more about Do Zucchini Plants Climb And Require Support? 

    FAQs

    How often should a pepper plant be watered?

    If you have well-drained, loose soil, you should water your plants once to twice a week .

    If you live in a very hot climate, you might need to water more frequently than this. Watering can be done manually by hand or with a soaker hose.

    How do you know if you are overwatering pepper plants?

    The most obvious sign that your peppers are too wet is when they start to rot. If you don’t have a greenhouse or a patio covered area, you can also check your plants by looking at the bottom of the leaves.

    The leaves should be dark green and not droopy. You can also use your finger to gently feel the leaves. If the leaves feel soft and spongy, you need to water your plants more frequently.

    How much water do bell peppers need?

    Peppers need about one to two inches of water a week. They are one of the easiest plants to overwater. It is important to keep your pepper plant roots moist, but not soggy.

    The easiest way to tell if your peppers are getting enough water is to look at their leaves. If they are drooping, then you need to water your plants more frequently. It may take a few days for your peppers to show that they are getting enough water.

    How do I know if my peppers need fertilizer?

    Fertilizer is usually recommended for all types of peppers. When growing peppers, you should fertilize your plants when transplanting and again when they bloom. Peppers have a strong root system and will absorb nutrients from the soil if it is not fertilized.

    Fertilizers can help your peppers grow faster and produce larger fruits. You can use any type of fertilizer that you want as long as it contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

    Do peppers need lots of water?

    Peppers generally only need one to two inches of water a week. If you water them too much, they may start to rot. Peppers also need a lot of sunlight to grow properly.

    During the day, your pepper plants will need at least six hours of sunlight to grow. If you have the right kind of soil and plenty of sunshine, growing peppers should be relatively easy. If you plant them in the fall, they will germinate quickly and will have time to grow before the weather gets cold.

  • Do Zucchini Plants Climb And Require Support? 

    Do Zucchini Plants Climb And Require Support? 

    Do zucchini plants climb and require support as they grow? It is important to provide these plants with all the proper care they need in order to yield the best results.

    It is important to keep zucchini plants in a warm environment and moist, but not soggy. The best location for the plant is sunny or in partial shade. If the soil is too wet, the plants will be spindly and weak, and may even die.

    Do Zucchini Plants Climb and Require Support?

    You are correct that Zucchini plants will climb if given the opportunity. However, you don’t need to provide any support, though providing support can be beneficial. Zucchini plants will not grow vertically if given no support, only horizontally.

    If you want your zucchini to grow vertically, you need to provide some form of support.  Most gardeners use a trellis to do this. The trellis should be set up at least two feet above the ground.

    The trellis should be strong enough that it doesn’t break when your zucchini plants start to grow. The trellis should be set up in an area that receives full sunlight. If you are unsure how tall your trellis needs to be, you can measure it with a tape measure or yardstick.

    Your zucchini plants will climb up the trellis and will continue to grow until they reach the top of the trellis. At that point, your zucchini plants will continue to grow vertically, but will no longer climb.

    How do I make my zucchini climb?

    What Is The Difference Between A Zucchini And Summer Squash?

    Though all types of zucchinis are summer squash, not all summer squashes are zucchinis. Here are some carachteristics:

    • Zucchini is a variety of summer squash.
    • The size of a zucchini varies depending on the variety. Some zucchini varieties may grow as long as 10 inches.
    • Summer squashes are generally not the most flavorful, but they are versatile.
    • You can serve summer squashes raw in salads or cook them in a variety of ways, from stir-fry to grilling.
    • Zucchini is generally available year-round and is often less expensive than other summer squashes. 
    • Both yellow squash and zucchini are part of the same family.
    • The color of a squash varies depending on the variety. Some varieties have white flesh and others have yellow flesh. Generally, the more yellow the flesh of the squash, the sweeter it will taste.
    • Zucchini plants grow quickly and can produce large amounts of fruit in a short period.
    • You can eat zucchini straight out of the garden or you can enjoy it baked, cooked, or pickled.
    • Zucchini is a cool-season vegetable that can be grown in areas with mild winters.
    • Zucchini is a low-maintenance, easy to grow, and versatile vegetable.

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    Growing Zucchini Plants From Seed

    Growing zucchini from seed is a great way to start your own vegetable garden. You can choose to plant seeds directly into your garden or you can plant them in containers before moving them to your garden. Many prefer to start their plants in containers because the container method also allows you to move your plants around and plant them in different areas of the garden.

    Starting zucchini from seed will give you the best results if you plant the seeds directly in the garden and don’t transplant them. When planting outside, make sure the soil is at least 60 degrees Farenheit.

    Starting the seeds

    Zucchini seeds need to be planted into the ground when they are fully dry. Start by preparing the planting site by raking the area smoothly. This will make it easier for the seeds to settle into the soil.

    Planting

    The planting hole should be about three times as wide as the seed, and one inch deep. It should be slightly deeper than the seed so that the roots can easily develop. Use a trowel to dig the planting hole.

    The soil

    The soil should be loose and well-drained. If the soil is compacted or hard, you should add more organic matter before planting. When planting seeds, try to plant them in rows or in groups. If your garden has a raised bed, you can create raised beds by putting in cinder blocks, bricks, or pavers.

    Spacing

    Make sure that the seeds are evenly spaced. Planting them too close together will reduce the amount of space between each seed. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of fine soil. If you have small seeds, you may want to cover them with a seedling starter mix. This is a mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, perlite, and other organic materials.

    Watering

    Water your seeds thoroughly. The seeds need to be moist but not dripping wet. When you water the seeds, you’re helping them to germinate. Once planted, water your seedlings often to ensure they don’t dry up.

    Take-home: Do Zucchini Plants Climb and Require Support?

    So do zucchini plants climb?  Yes, some zucchini plants do climb especially when they are provided with a place to climb.  However, if it does not get a place to climb on, it can still grow and bear fruits without support. So you can still plant and harvest the fruits from them.

    Read more about Do Tomatoes Grow On Vines?

    FAQs

    How do I make my zucchini climb?

    If you want your zucchini to climb, you need to make sure it gets plenty of water. Zucchinis love moisture and will grow best in a container that is kept slightly damp. The soil should be moist but not soggy. In this way, the plant can keep the roots in the top half of the pot and the leaves in the bottom half.

    Do I need a trellis for the zucchini?

    You might need a trellis if you have a large zucchini that needs to be trained up to a vertical position. A trellis is also recommended for growing cucumbers and melons.

    Is there a vining zucchini?

    Yes, there are several varieties that have been bred specifically for growing in containers. These include “Eureka”, “Sunshine” and “Lemon”. They are usually available from nurseries or garden centers.

    Can I grow zucchini upright?

    Yes, if you want to try growing it vertically. This is usually done by using a trellis or growing it up a stake. If you do this, make sure the stake or trellis is at least 6 feet tall so the plant can get enough light.

  • Do Tomatoes Grow On Vines? – How They Grow

    Do Tomatoes Grow On Vines? – How They Grow

    Do tomatoes grow on vines?  In this article, we will look at tomatoes and how they grow.

    We know that tomatoes are a fruit and that they grow on vines. But what do you call a tomato plant? What does the word “vine” mean in this context? 

    A tomato plant is a type of plant with vines that produces tomatoes. This is why we can say “tomatoes grow on vines”.

    It is also called a vegetable plant because it grows food for humans to eat. Most varieties of tomato plants grow to be two to three feet tall. In this article, we will look at the question do tomatoes grow on vines.

    Do Tomatoes Grow On Vines?

    The short answer is yes! Tomatoes can grow on vines, with some varieties being commonly grown on trellises or poles.

    There are many types of tomato plants and they grow in different ways. We will look at the most common types of tomato plants and what they look like.

    Do tomatoes grow like a vine?

    Types Of Tomato Plants

    There are two main types of tomato plants: vine and bush. The two terms can be confusing because all tomatoes grow on vines.

    • A vine tomato plant is a type of tomato that grows tall and needs staking for support. Also known as indeterminate, they have much longer stem growth. Vine tomatoes grow all season long, continuing to grow until the weather begins to get cold.
    • A bush tomato plant is a type of tomato plant that is shorter than the vine tomato plant. Also known as determinate, they are a good choice for growing in containers. They tend to have thicker skins with fewer seeds and are a good choice for canning. They also have a shorter growing season than vine tomatoes.

    How Do You Grow Tomatoes? – Do Tomatoes Grow on Vines?

    Tomatoes grow best in full sun and in loose, well-drained soil. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Tomatoes grow best in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F.

    If you live in a cold climate, make sure your soil stays warm enough to grow tomatoes. You can also grow tomatoes in a greenhouse. This is a great option if you live in a very cold climate.

    In the fall, when the weather starts cooling down, it’s time to start thinking about getting your tomato plants ready for the winter. It’s not too early to get started on preparing your tomato plants for winter.

    You should water your plants regularly, but not too often. It is best to water tomato plants in the morning. They need about one to two inches of water a week.

    You should fertilize your tomato plants when you first plant them and then every three to four weeks throughout the growing season. You should use a fertilizer that has macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Avoid fertilizers that are fast-release and avoid high nitrogen.

    When you’re ready to harvest your tomatoes, gently twist the bottom of the tomato to remove it from the plant. You can also store them on the countertop for a few days or in the fridge for around a week.

    You can also freeze your tomatoes in plastic bags. To do this, wash the tomatoes thoroughly before freezing.

    Final Thoughts: Do Tomatoes Grow on Vines?

    So if you are growing vine tomatoes, it’s best to use support to keep them growing straight.  Do tomatoes grow on vines?  Yes, all tomatoes grow on vines and they can be broken into vine or bush categories.

    So what is the difference between the two?  Well, bush tomatoes grow well in pots, and vine tomatoes need a stake for support. Within the two categories, there are several different varieties. There are many uses for vine and bush tomatoes that you can enjoy using.

    Read more about How Long Does It Take For Lettuce To Grow?

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    FAQs

    Do tomatoes grow like a vine?

    Yes. Tomatoes are actually a type of climber that grows on a stem and has tendrils that help them grasp other objects. You can use a regular tomato cage that is designed to keep tomatoes from breaking the stems or their supports when they grow and mature.

    What’s the difference between vine tomatoes and regular tomatoes?

    Tomatoes grown for fresh market or home use, as opposed to processing, are called “vine” or “indeterminate” tomatoes because they can grow on a trellis or support. They are usually smaller in size than “determinate” tomatoes, which are grown for processing. The best-tasting tomatoes are generally the ones that have been harvested at a younger stage.

    If you pick your tomatoes too late, they will be less sweet and flavorful. Tomatoes that have started to turn yellow or purple are also not suitable for canning because they are beginning to lose their flavor.

    Do cherry tomatoes grow on vines?

    Cherrry tomatoes do grow on vines and can grow to become quite tall. Indeterminate cherry tomatoes can benefit from a tomato tower or a trellis to help them grow strong and produce a maximum yield.

  • 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.