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Category: Plants

  • When & How to Harvest Rosemary

    When & How to Harvest Rosemary

    The smell and taste of freshly harvested rosemary from the garden have got to be the most refreshing things you can experience. While the process of harvesting is very simple and easy, it is important to know when & how to harvest rosemary the right way so that your plant keeps producing for you to have a long and continuous harvest.

    Rosemary is a cut-and-come-again type of crop, meaning the more of it you pick, the more you will be able to harvest. This is provided you do it properly. If you want to learn how to harvest rosemary properly, and get tips on what to do with it afterward, keep reading.

    The Rosemary Plant

    Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a perennial herb that can be grown in so many different climates all year round even if they are flowering, as long as the environmental conditions are right.

    The rosemary plant is a shrub with fragrant, evergreen, needle-shaped leaves. It can also have white, pink, purple, or blue flowers depending on where it is in its growth cycle. It is native to the Mediterranean region and will survive the winter in warmer climates.

    Rosemary however very sensitive to extremely cold conditions such as freezing temperatures. If you have this kind of weather approaching, you might need to harvest all your rosemary before the cold kills it. Either pull the entire plant from the soil or gather the leaves and young stems. You can also just cut the plant all the way back.

    If you have plants that are sure to withstand the winter cold, or you live in a place with a warm climate, having one or two will usually be enough for you to use throughout the summer and still have enough to store for use through the fall and winter months.

    Rosemary is a herb that makes a great companion for many vegetable dishes such as cabbage, broccoli, and carrots. If you fancy growing and enjoying this herb, learn how to harvest rosemary without killing the plant.

    How to Harvest Rosemary Without Killing the Plant

    Rosemary has two parts of the plant that you can harvest, these are the new tips or sprigs, and the leave. Both parts of the plant are edible.

    Most of the flavor and aromatic oils of rosemary are found in the leaves of the plant. This makes them ideal for use in cooking, making tea, and many other uses. The tender tips of the stems are the best ones to use for cooking. The older ones tend to get woody and tough and are best used to infuse flavors rather than eating.

    If your rosemary plant is newly planted, you will need to have to wait until it has grown a bit of length and start to bush out before you start harvesting it.

    Step-by-step guide

    Step 1: Harvest the plant at the right time

    The best time to harvest rosemary is in the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. Avoid harvesting it in the winter season, when it is dormant.

    Step 2: Harvets new shots that are at least 8 inches long

    New shoots are best for cooking as they have a lot of flavors and are tender. Shoots that are still too young need to be given time to grow so that you can have a continuous harvest.

    Step 3: Cut 3/4 of the plant stems at the maximum

    Never harvest all the stems of your plant at any one time. Leaving the plant with some stems will allow it to regenerate.

    Step 4: Leave at least a quarter of the branch intact with as many leaves as possible

    Leaving branches with some leaves will help your plant to keep producing.

    Step 5: Water the plant thoroughly

    While harvesting your rosemary, make sure that you keep watering it so that it can continue to put out new shoots.

    Step 6: Give the plant some fertilizer

    Giving fertilizer to the plant will help it to recover after it gets harvested.

    Step 7: Monitor your plant for any spots or signs of unusual development or stress

    Keeping a careful eye on your plant will help you to quickly notice any unusual signs on your plant so you can remedy what you can to keep your plant healthy.

    harvesting rosemary

    How to Cut Rosemary From Plant

    Most gardeners cut off full sprigs, and then strip off the leaves depending on the intended use. To strip off the leaves, simply run your fingers along the length of the stem from top to bottom. You can also just pinch them off with your fingers.

    Instead of cutting off full sprigs of rosemary, you can also just take individual needles from the plant as needed.

    However, you choose to harvest rosemary, always cut the tender, new tips or stems. The best ones to harvest are those that are 8 inches or longer. Identify those and cut off the top 2-3 inches with sharp pruning shears.

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    How often you harvest your rosemary will depend on a few factors. These factors include the age or size of your plant and how much you harvest at a time.

    If you are cutting a few sprigs here and there, you can harvest as often as you like with no fear of overharvesting your plant. If you take a large harvest at a time, about 1/3 of the plant’s total size at any one time, the plant will definitely need more time to recover.

    Always use sharp pruners or kitchen scissors to cut off the stems instead of pulling or tugging on the branches. And be careful not to harvest too much at a time or your plant may not be able to recover.

    Only pick the healthy stems that have green leaves. If you notice any yellowing, browning, or dry needles, do not harvest them as they may not taste good. You can however cut them off and give the plant a chance to grow healthy foliage.

    Regularly trim the plant even if you do not harvest for use. Doing this every two weeks will help to encourage new plant growth. You can freeze some of your trimmed-off rosemary for long-term storage in an airtight container or ziploc bag.

    When to Harvest Rosemary

    The best time to pick rosemary is in the spring and summer when the plant is actively putting on new growth. It is best to pick the sprigs in the morning after the dew has evaporated before the afternoon heat has set in.

    As soon as your plant is established and is putting out new growth, you can harvest it during these time periods. Look out for supple green stems emerging from the already existing branches to know when the plant is ready for harvest.

    Are Rosemary Flowers Edible?

    Rosemary buds are tiny flowers that appear when the rosemary plant is in bloom. These flowers are edible and can be used for many different things.

    They have a slightly sweeter flavor than the leaves. They are perfect for garnishing various dishes and adding colors to salads. They have a similar flavor and aroma to the leaves and stems, only taste a bit sweeter.

    What to Do With Freshly Harvested Rosemary

    Refrigeration

    Freshly picked rosemary can be enjoyed right away but chopping it up and adding it to soups, stews, sauces, or even roasts, or infused into other foods. Any leftovers can be safely stored in a small glass or vase and kept in the fridge for use within a few days. If it is whole sprigs, keep the ends submerged in clean water and they can last for up to two weeks.

    Refrigeration is a good short-term storage solution and will keep rosemary fresh for about 2-3 weeks. There is no need to wash the sprigs for refrigeration, it might actually help them store longer. Simply clean them with a damp towel. Place your cleaned sprigs in a container and store them in the crisp drawer of the refrigerator.

    Freezing

    If you want to store your rosemary for longer, you can freeze it. These silicone ice cube trays are great and easy to use to turn rosemary into ice cubes and store them in an airtight container or ziploc bag so they do not get any off flavors.

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    Drying

    Another long-term storage option for rosemary is drying it. Unlike other herbs such as parsley and basil, rosemary does not lose its flavor when dried.

    Using a food dehydrator is one quick way of drying the herb. You can dry whole sprigs using a low setting that is suitable for herbs. If you do not own a food dehydrator, use the traditional method of air drying.

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    For drying, it is best to harvest stems of about 6-8 inches, but any length will do. Hang them up in bunches in a dark, dry, and warm place, or lay them flat on wire racks, and make sure you do not tack them in layers as this may delay drying or even make them rot. Place a tray under the drying herbs so it will help to catch any bits that fall off as the herbs dry.

    Keep in mind that dry rosemary is much harder and woody than when it is soft. You can crush or grind the dried leaves to make them easier to cook with, but they retain flavor better if they are kept whole.

    How Long is Rosemary Good For?

    This fragrant, vigorous, and evergreen herb can be harvested all year round, although the best time to harvest it is in the summer and spring, just before it flowers and when the aromatic oils are at their best and the plant essence is best preserved.

    If you take good care of your plant, it will keep producing healthy, and if you harvest it the right way might keep it around for about 15 years or more.

    Once harvested, you have multiple options on how to store it:

    • Refrigerating for up to three weeks
    • Freezing for up to six months
    • Drying for as long as you desire

    If you do any of these the right way, your rosemary will stay good.

    Tips to Improve Your Rosemary Harvest

    1. Rosemary is a relatively drought-tolerant plant, but you must water it regularly if it is in a spot or pot that does not get a lot of rain. This will surely keep your rosemary harvest good. The plant also hates getting too wet, so make sure you grow it in well-draining soil to avoid any water-logged conditions that may kill the plant.
    2. If you are in a colder zone, plant your rosemary in containers so that you can bring them in during the cold winter months.
    3. If your previously healthy plants are getting less vigorous over the growing seasons, take cuttings from them and grow new plants to replace them. They may be losing vigor due to age.

    Quick Summary: How to Harvest Rosemary

    Knowing and using the right method of harvesting rosemary is key to maintaining the productivity and vigor of your plant, and will determine how long your plant will last. If you want only a little bit to prepare a dish, you can simply just pluck individual needles directly from the plant as needed.

    Most gardeners snip off full sprigs and then strip the leaves when they harvest rosemary. This way they only get what they need and leave the plant to keep growing.

    Harvest rosemary by snipping sprigs with pruners or kitchen scissors, and avoid any pulling which may damage the plant. Harvest the new growth on the plant to get the best flavor for cooking. New growth will be flexible and lighter green while older growth will be woodier and darker.

    We hope you found this article informative and that you will now confidently grow and harvest your rosemary the right way.

    Happy growing!

  • How to Harvest Thyme Without Killing the Plant [Best Tips]

    How to Harvest Thyme Without Killing the Plant [Best Tips]

    Thyme is one of the most commonly grown household herbs due to its ease of growth. To get a prolonged harvest and enjoy more of this herb, you need to know how to harvest thyme without killing the plant.

    Thyme grows really fast and well if provided with the right growing conditions, and is an extremely versatile herb for adding flavor in cooking and baking. Keep reading to learn more about this incredible herb.

    The Thyme Herb

    Thyme, scientific name Thymus vulgaris, is a plant native to the Mediterranean but is currently grown almost everywhere in the world. It is a hardy, perennial plant belonging to the mint family that is extremely easy to grow. Because of this and its size, it can be grown in a variety of areas such as in the garden, on the porch, and in any indoor environment.

    This wonderful herb has a pleasant, pungent clover flavor that brings some people, good memories of summer!

    Thyme comes in at least 50 varieties with different flavors and fragrances. Different thyme varieties are used for different purposes. These are the fragrant ornamental and culinary varieties. The culinary varieties of thyme are usually evergreen, and the English variety is mostly used in cooking.

    Taking care of or maintenance of this herb is quite simple. It does not require much care and develops easily. For starters, it is drought friendly so it has low watering needs. If you are into bees, you will love it even more because it will attract bees to your garden. It is usually harvested in the summer months but depending on the climate where you live, you can easily harvest it late into the fall.

    Harvesting Thyme Herb

    Harvesting thyme the right way is of utmost importance. It is difficult not to know when the right time to harvest thyme is, as it can be quite easy to tell. The most important thing with harvesting thyme is to wait until the plant has grown to 8″ – 10″ in height. Once it has reached this height, you can safely harvest the herb without the risk of killing the plant.

    Only trim a few stems at a time for cooking. If you want to do a larger harvest, you should wait until the plant has developed more and produced larger biomass. Regardless of what stage of growth you harvest your thyme at, always leave a few leaves on the plant for it to regenerate.

    When harvesting thyme, do it right before the plant starts to flower. This is when the flavor is the most intense. It reduces after the plant flowers. If you can, always harvest thyme in the morning when the plant’s dew has dried from the leaves. The flavorful essential oils are at their peak at this time.

    facts about thyme

    How to harvest thyme so it keeps growing

    Just as important as knowing when to harvest thyme, you need to know exactly how to harvest it without killing the plant. Here are the steps that you need to follow:

    1. If you want enough to cook one dish, simply cut one or two stems by clipping the stems back to the woody section of the plant.
    2. If you want only a few leaves for a smaller meal, rinse the whole stem while it is still on the plant. Then use your fingers or a herb stripper to pull the leaves off the stem.
    3. To harvest thyme for drying, use a pair of garden clippers or scissors to cut off the top 5-8″ of growth and leave the tough and woody plants behind.
    4. Whatever purpose you want to harvest your thyme for, you can cut back as much as you want from the plants but always leave about 4-5″ of growth behind so that your plants can regenerate. If you harvest your thyme in this way, you will be able to easily get 2-3 harvests from the same plant before the winter arrives.
    5. Trim your plants regularly. Trimming your plants regularly is very good for them so do not be afraid to do it. It will encourage new growth to keep coming, while also helping keep the plant in a compact shape. This is especially desirable if you are growing your plant indoors or in a compact space. When you trip, always be careful to leave at least five inches of growth. This will keep your plant thriving.
    6. The first time you harvest your thyme, do not harvest more than a third of the plant. This way your plant will keep growing and establish well, then you will be able to harvest more from it in the future. If you overharvest it early on, it may not recover.
    7. Trim your thyme plant whenever it gets leggy to encourage continuous growth.

    How to Preserve Thyme

    As we have already mentioned, a healthy maintained thyme plant can produce so much herb that you can harvest and store, even more, if you have multiple growing plants. Depending on how long you wish to store your thyme, there are various ways that you can preserve it.

    Store fresh spring

    Keep a fresh spring or sprigs of thyme in a glass of cool water, like you would keep flowers in a vase. Change the water regularly and make sure that the glass never runs dry. You can keep them fresh for a couple of weeks this way.

    Refrigeration

    Fresh thyme leaves that are still attached to the stem can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for about a week or two before they go bad or loses their flavor. Store fresh thyme leaves in the refrigerator in an airtight container with damp paper towels. They will help to maintain freshness.

    Drying

    If you want to store the herbs for a longer period though, drying might be the best way to do it. The good news is that thyme is one of the easier herbs to dry. If the temperatures are warm enough, you can even let it air dry.

    To dry your thyme:

    • Gently rinse off harvested thyme stems in cool water from the tap or fill a sink or bowl and wash them thoroughly.
    • Pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean towel and then let them air out for about two years or until they are completely dry.
    • Gather the stems into bundles that you can use per dish that you prepare. Tie the stalks of the bundles together at their ends using a string or twine. Hang the bundles in a dark, warm, and well-ventilated area. Spread them out on a paper towel, rack, or tray in a single layer, especially in a humid area. Keep them away from direct sunlight.
    • You can place the herb bundles in paper bags with slits if you wish. This will protect the herbs as they dry and catch leaves that may fall off.
    • Expect to wait about 2-3 weeks for the herbs to dry. The exact amount of time will depend on the humidity levels and other environmental conditions. Because thyme leaves a quite small, check on them regularly as they may dry quicker than expected. You will know that the leaves are sufficiently dry when they turn crispy and start crumbling. At this stage, you can take and store them in storage containers, and label and use them as you go. Stored this way, your thyme can last for up to two years. The one disadvantage of dried thyme is that it does not have as strong of a flavor as its fresh counterpart. But you will still get to enjoy it.
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    Freezing

    Another option for long-term storage option for thyme is freezing. You can do this by chopping the leaves up into small pieces, putting them in ice cube trays, and then filling them up with water all the way. Frozen thyme can store for a few months. If however, your thyme starts to turn brown before you use it, it is best to toss it as consuming it in that state may be unsafe.

    You can also make herb oil cubes. Pick thyme leaves from the stems and place them in an ice cube tray. Cover the leaves with olive oil and store them in the freezer. These cubes will last for a few months and will be convenient for easy cooking as you can take one or two cubes and toss them into a pan to cook.

    Conclusion – How to Harvest Thyme Without Killing the Plant

    Thyme is an incredibly versatile herb that is so easy to grow and enjoy. To keep enjoying the long-term benefits of growing this plant, it is important to know how to harvest thyme without killing the plant. If you follow the advice provided in this article, you should confidently be able to grow, harvest and store your thyme so you can enjoy it for as long as you like, whether it is in or out of season.

    We hope you found this article helpful.

    Happy growing and harvesting!

  • When to Pick Jalapenos: Know the Right Time to Harvest Ripe Jalapenos

    When to Pick Jalapenos: Know the Right Time to Harvest Ripe Jalapenos

    Do you like a bit of heat if your food? That zang when you bite into your meal. If this is you, you may want to know when to pick jalapenos so you can get the ideal flavor and heat level that you want.

    Jalapeno peppers are extremely easy to grow and if you enjoy them, you can grow them at home regardless of the amount of space that you have. Let’s keep reading to find out more.

    What Are Jalapeno Peppers?

    Jalapeno is a medium-sized chili pepper cultivar belonging to the species  Capsicum annuum. These peppers grow fairly slowly and because of this, it can be quite tough to tell when they are ready for harvest.

    The peppers are a summer favorite for gardeners everywhere. They add some spice to dishes without the overwhelming heat that some peppers have. Give them a good amount of heat and sunlight and they will grow happily and produce a pepper with a lovely mild taste that can be used in many dishes such as salsas, stir-fries, and nachos and to make the sauce.

    Jalapenos can easily be grown in containers and on the ground. So even if you don’t have a lot of garden space, you can still be able to grow and enjoy these peppers at home.

    Jalapeno plants produce a large yield of dozens of glossy green fruits that are easy to grow if provided with the right growing conditions.

    On the Scoville scale, which is the measure of the hotness or spiciness of peppers, they are in the range from 2500 to 8000 and are considered mildly hot. The compound capsaicin gives hot peppers their heat. When jalapenos are fully ripe and have a red color, the level of capsaicin is higher and results in the peppers being hotter than when they are still green.

    Harvesting Jalapenos

    Harvesting jalapenos is an easy process. If you follow the guidelines that will be provided in this article, you can confidently harvest them right.

    Continual harvest of peppers is good for them and will encourage the plant to keep producing more. Therefore, it is impossible to use up peppers by picking them often. As long as you harvest them, they will keep blossoming and producing more peppers.

    On the other hand, if you leave the peppers too long on the plant, your red jalapenos will start to rot or will not last very long after you pick them.

    No matter the color of your papers when you pick them, always pick them before the frost falls. Peppers are a summer crop and are therefore very sensitive to cold weather. They may suffer frost damage if the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

    If you are not quite prepared to harvest your peppers or they are not quite ready as the cold weather approaches, you can cover the entire plant with fleece covers. This way you might be able to save the peppers from damage.

    How Do I Know When My Jalapenos Are Ready to Pick?

    When it comes to harvesting jalapenos, when do you know or decide when your peppers are ready to pick? You pick your jalapenos when they are the right color depending on the level of heat you want.

    Jalapenos turn red as they mature, and as they mature their level of heat increases. Most people prefer to harvest their jalapenos when the fruits are dark green and only have mild heat.

    If you are unsure that your green jalapenos are ready for harvest, check their appearance. They should be picked when they are about 3-5″ in size, and feel firm to the touch.

    How to Tell When Jalapenos Are Ripe

    Telling when jalapenos are ripe can be tricky because they are usually harvested off the same branch and start in. And if you grow them at home, you may have a different variety to the ones you find at the store so they may look different.

    When you plant your own jalapenos at home, start harvesting them when they are about 5 to 6 months old. After this period, the peppers should be at least 3-5 inches long. They are then ripe and ready to harvest. The exact length of the pepper will depend on the variety you are growing, as well as the growing conditions that you have provided for them.

    If your plants are grown in an area that does not receive a lot of sunlight, they may be smaller and take longer to mature. Regardless of size, mature peppers are deep green or red, as soon as they get these colors, they are ripe and ready to pick.

    How to Harvest Jalapenos – Simple Guide

    Once you have ascertained that your peppers are ready to harvest, you need to do it properly so that your plants keep producing fruit. Here are the steps you need to follow;

    1. Locate the peppers that have your desired heat level

    Green jalapenos will have a mild flavor. The lighter the shade of green, the milder the pepper is likely to be. As the peppers mature and get a red color, they get hotter. The redder they are, the more heat they will have.

    2. Hold the branch that has the jalapenos you want to harvest

    This is so that you can support the stem while plucking the peppers so that it does not break.

    3. Cut off the pepper

    With your free hand, use a pair of sharp running shears or garden scissors to cut off the pepper at the base where it attaches to the main stem. While doing this, do not give in to the urge to tug on twits the peppers of the plant even if they give you a hard time. This may end up leading to damage to your plant.

    jalapenos facts

    When to Harvest Jalapenos

    Knowing when to pick jalapenos off the plant is important to get a good harvest. Jalapenos take anywhere between 70 and 85 days to mature, from the day they are transplanted outside. At this stage, they should have a firm texture, have dark green pods, and be 3-4 inches long.

    If you are looking for mild heat from your peppers, pick the younger green ones off the plant. The younger ones will have a light green color and will not have any corking, which is the appearance of little stretch marks on the body of the jalapeno.

    When jalapeno peppers grow fast, the skin has to stretch quickly and this results in the pepper having little lines or striations on them. When you see these marks on the pepper, that is a clear indication that it is ready to pick and healthy.

    Different jalapenos have different levels of heat. If you prefer mild to no heat, the best varieties to go for are the Mammoth Jalapeno, TAM Jalapeno pepper, or the heatless Coolapeño pepper. You can get seeds for many of these varieties on the Etsy online marketplace.

    Can You Ripen Jalapenos Indoors?

    If you can not wait for your jalapeno peppers to mature while still on the plant, or if a branch with some peppers that have not ripened breaks off, you can harvest them indoors.

    Jalapenos can be ripened off the vine. This process can take period of a couple of days to a few weeks. The speed with which this happens will depend on various conditions such as the ambient temperature in which they are kept, as well as whether the peppers themselves have started changing color.

    Jalapenos, just like other peppers can ripen indoors, on a windowsill or countertop. The ideal temperature to get this to happen is at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit for quick results.

    If the peppers are at the end of the growing season, you can cut off branches with immature jalapeno peppers and hang them upside down indoors, or stick them in water to speed up the ripening process.

    Keep in mind however that after your peppers have been harvested, they will no longer grow in size. They will only ripen but remain the same in size.

    How to Preserve Jalapenos

    Depending on the size of your harvest, as well as how long you would like to store your jalapenos, there are various methods that you can use to preserve them. These are;

    1. Refrigeration: If you plan to consume your jalapenos in about two weeks, you can store your peppers in a ziploc bag and store them in the vegetable drawer of your fridge. Make sure that both the peppers and storage bag are completely dry before you store them
    2. Freezing: You can store jalapenos in the freezer for up to eight months. Before freezing, wash and dry them carefully and store them whole in freezer bags. You can use your frozen peppers in stews, soups, and other dishes. You will obviously have to thaw them out before doing so, and they may lose a bit of crunch from when they are fresh. Just keep them in mind. If, for whatever reason, your frozen peppers start to turn black before you consume them, toss them away as they may no longer be suitable to eat.
    3. Food dehydrator: dehydrated jalapeno peppers can be stored for up to a year. To prepare them, thoroughly wash and dry them with a dry towel or let them air dry. Cut your washed peppers into even pieces. Ly them on a flat tray and make sure that they do not overlap so that they can dry properly. Dehydrate your peppers at 125 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 12 hours. You will see that your peppers are completely dry when they become leathery (if you want to rehydrate later), or when they get brittle (if you want to grind them into powder). Store your dehydrated peppers in sealable containers and keep the, away from the sun.
    4. Pickling: Some gardeners prefer to pick their jalapeno peppers early. Green jalapenos are crispy and crunchy and are great for pickling. So if you want to pickle your peppers, pick them when they are still young and green, and you can keep them for as long as you like.

    When you harvest your peppers for storage in whichever method you prefer, yous should also consider saving some seeds for the next planting season. This will save you money and the trouble of having to look for new seeds or seedlings.

    Another advantage of growing jalapenos from your own seeds is that those peppers will be better adapted to your growing environment, and will have a higher chance of survival and production with each passing growth season.

    Conclusion – When to Pick Jalapenos

    Jalapenos are an extremely easy crop to grow. You can grow them both indoors and outdoors, as long as you can provide ideal growing conditions for them, they will grow beautifully and successfully.

    Harvesting jalapenos is an important factor in their growth and getting a successful harvest. Knowing when and how to harvest your peppers is absolutely crucial if you want your plant to keep producing. Knowing what indicators to look out for, that show that your peppers are ready for harvest will determine the quality of your crop, as well as how long your plant will keep growing.

    If you like a mild eat on your peppers, harvest them while they are still young and green in color. If you love hot peppers, wait for your peppers to turn red because at thing stage they will have a lot of heat.

    Pick your jalapenos often so that they can keep producing more fruit for you to enjoy. Do not worry about any possibility of having too much fruit, because you can always store your peppers for as long as you with with the different methods provided in this article.

    Never wait for all your peppers to ripen before harvesting them, as this will slow down the growth and productivity of the plant. Keep harvesting for it to keep growing. You cannot out-pick the plant.

    We hope you found all the information, tips and tricks pin this article useful, and you will not confidently grow and harvest your jalapenos knowing that you are doing it right.

    Happy growing!

  • Know the Best Time to Pick Potatoes [Potato Harvest Time]

    Know the Best Time to Pick Potatoes [Potato Harvest Time]

    Homegrown potatoes are arguably better than anything you can buy at a supermarket. Growing them however can be a bit tricky if you are inexperienced. One of the key things with growing them at home is to know when to pick potatoes.

    Knowing how to harvest and handle homegrown potatoes after harvest will help you to end up with the maximum possible harvest your garden can produce. You will also be able to store them for a long, even through the winter months. To get to know when to pick potatoes, keep reading.

    The Potato Plant

    Solanum tuberosum, commonly known as potato is one of the most commonly grown and consumed vegetables worldwide. It is a staple for many traditional dishes and is used to make many fast food dishes and snacks.

    Potatoes are a cool-weather vegetable and can be grown as a winter crop in areas with a warm climate. They belong to the nightshade family of plants which also has peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants.

    The potato plant has green leaves that grow on top of the soil and help you to see where your potatoes are planted. It also has a tuber, which is the enlarged underground portion, which we refer to as “the potato”. The tuber develops underground once the plants get to about 6-8 inches in height. This usually happens around 5-7 weeks after planting.

    There are over 100 types of potatoes. They differ in skin and flesh colors, shapes, and sizes. Some of these are ideal for mashing, roasting, frying, and for making salads. Potatoes are also nutritious. The skin is especially nutrient-rich and provides u to 45% of an adult’s daily vitamin C and 18% potassium requirements.

    Growing Potatoes

    Potatoes will grow well as long as they are provided with the right growing conditions. They do well in most types of soils and will produce a lot of good potatoes for your harvest.

    Grow potatoes in an area where they will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. The soil should be fertile, loose, and well-draining. Refrain from using any hard or compacted soil as it will lead to disfigured potatoes and will make harvesting difficult when the time comes. You can improve the quality of the soil by adding compost, and soil amendments, and preparing the soil before planting.

    The ideal soil pH for growing potatoes is acidic and should be between 5.8 and 6.5. The temperature should be 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

    The best time to plant potatoes is in the spring 2 to 4 weeks before the frost day in your area. The temperatures should still be ideal at this time. If planted at the right time, you should expect to harvest them late in the summer and can store them through the fall and winter months.

    Harvesting Potatoes

    Harvesting potatoes can seem tricky, but it is pretty simple if you know what you are doing. Knowing when to pick potatoes is also key. They are best harvested on dry days as harvesting in the mud when it is raining may cause issues. Since you cannot see the tubers underground while you harvest, you need to be extremely careful not to puncture the tubers. If the soil is loose, it should be pretty easy to maneuver with your fingers, this will help you to avoid cutting on causing bruising on the skin of the potatoes.

    Potatoes can tolerate light frost, but when the first hard frost is expected, it’s time to get out the shovels and start digging potatoes.

    Knowing the right time to harvest potatoes and doing so will keep the vegetables from sitting too long in the ground, and will reduce the chances of attack by pathogens that target potatoes.

    The size of your tubers should be about the size of a chicken egg or bigger when you harvest them. You can leave them to grow a bit more if you prefer. You should use a digging fork from around the edges and work your way into where your potatoes are planted. This should help loosen the soil without puncturing the potatoes. Once the soil has loosened, you can use your fingers to feel around and get the potatoes that you want out.

    Here are some considerations to keep in mind when harvesting potatoes:

    • Toughen up your potatoes for storage before harvesting them, by limiting how much you water them after the middle of August.
    • Before harvesting your entire crop, dig up a small test hill to see how big or mature your plants are. The skin of mature potatoes will be thick and firmly attached to the potato flesh. Those that are still young will have thin skin that comes off the potato when gently rubbed.
    • If the soil is wet when you harvest the potatoes, let them air dry completely before storing them.
    • Check for any green pots on your harvested potatoes, if it is just superficial and can be trimmed off, the potatoes should be fine to keep. If the green goes deep into the flesh, throw away the potatoes as they may be poisonous.
    • Cure your potatoes before long-term storage. Do this by letting them sit in temperatures of 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for about two weeks. This time will give the potatoes time to heal or harden any small cuts that may be present. You do not need to cure them if you are going to eat them right off the ground.
    • Store potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place after harvesting. Too much light will turn them green, rendering them unsuitable for eating.
    • Store the potatoes that are damaged, diseased, or bruise-free to avoid any storage problems.
    • Store your potatoes in baskets, cardboard boxes, or crates with holes on the sides so the vegetables get enough ventilation to prevent rot.
    • Regularly check on your stored potatoes and remove any ones that may get damaged or start to rot before they infect the others.

    harvesting potatoes

    When to Harvest Potatoes in Containers

    Whether you are harvesting potatoes from the ground, grow bags, containers, or grow beds, the method to follow is the same. When to pick potatoes, and how exactly to do it, will be the same.

    Once your potato plants start to flower, you know it is almost time to harvest. Wait for a bit, just until the flowers start to dry and drop off the plant. After this happens, the potatoes will remain tender for about 2-3 weeks.

    If you prefer to pick your potatoes at this stage, keep in mind that you will need to eat them soon after harvest as they do not store well. They are delicious but have really thin skins that affect their shelf life.

    To harvest larger, more mature potatoes, you should leave them for longer than this in the soil. Growing them in a potato grow bed will help you easily monitor the size of your potatoes.

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    The longer you intend to let your potatoes grow for, the more you will need to protect them from animals, children, and pets so they can grow and mature well.

    Because potatoes can be damaged by frost, you should always harvest them just before the frost hits, whether they are mature or still in their baby stage.

    How to Know When Potatoes Are Ready to Harvest

    So how do you know the best time to pick potatoes? Knowing when to harvest potatoes can be quite easy. Once the potato tubers have started to set, they are ready to harvest. You will know that they have reached this stage when you notice them flowering.

    To harvest baby potatoes, dig up potatoes just as the plants have started to flower. Wait until the tops of the vines have completely died to harvest full-size potatoes. This shows that the plant has now directed all of its energy into growing the tubers.

    As you figure out when to pick potatoes, watch out for other symptoms of disease with the die-off of your plants, as not all browning and die-off are part of the plant’s natural cycle.

    Potatoes can tolerate light frost, however, when the first hard frost is expected you should pull off the shovels and start digging potatoes. So you should harvest all your potatoes before the frost hits or you might lose your crop.

    If you do not harvest your potatoes, you will create a perennial patch of potatoes. Potatoes left in the ground and not harvested will either grow new plants, or sprout and produce new plants in the spring of the following growth season. Which of these happens will depend on the climate where you live.

    How to Store Potatoes

    How you store your harvested potatoes depends on the size of your harvest and how long you intend to store them for. If you are harvesting potatoes to consume within a few days, storage should not be a concern as you can store them anywhere.

    To store them for longer, however, you should find them some space in a cool place with temperatures of between 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If you store them in a warm place, they will be susceptible to diseases, decreasing their shelf life.

    The storage space for potatoes also needs to have a humidity of about 80%, or the tubers will wither and dry out.

    Make sure that the place is also not exposed to sunlight as this will cause the greening of the potatoes. Fresh air and ventilation are crucial for storing potatoes, airtight containers should not be used.

    Never store potatoes with apples. The ethylene gas from apples will cause the potatoes to spoil.

    Avoid storing potatoes in the fridge. This is because after potatoes are harvested, they convert starch to sugar depending on the temperature. They will do this if stored in the fridge, and the potatoes taste weird. Another reason is that storing potatoes in the fridge leads to an increase in the levels of acrylamide. This compound is produced when you cook potatoes at high temperatures. Acrylamide causes cancer in animals, so there is a good chance it might also be harmful to humans.

    Depending on the variety, potatoes can last 4-6 months if stored well.

    Conclusion – Know the Best Time to Pick Potatoes

    Growing and harvesting potatoes at home is one of the most satisfying things to do. Digging them up makes for a fun activity that can be done with kids. Knowing when to pick potatoes and the best method to harvest will ensure that you get the best harvest and can store your potatoes well if you wish.

    We hope you found this article on how to know the best time to pick potatoes informative and helpful.

    Happy growing.

  • How to Harvest Kale So the Leaves Keep Growing

    How to Harvest Kale So the Leaves Keep Growing

    Kale is one of the easiest and best leafy greens to grow currently. Also dubbed a superfood due to its many health benefits, if you’re a health enthusiast, you definitely want to know how to harvest kale so the leaves keep growing and give you a continuous harvest.

    To learn how to do this right, let’s keep reading.

    Summary: How to Harvest Mature Kale

    To harvest Kale, grasp the stem of the mature outer leaf at the base of the main stalk and pull down and out, away from the center, until it breaks. Ensure that you leave at least 5 central leaves on the plant so that it keeps growing.

    What is Kale?

    Brassica oleracea var. sabellica, commonly known as kale is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family and is grown for its edible leaves.

    Mostly eaten raw in salads, but can also be eaten cooked, kale has a variety of micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, minerals, antioxidants, carotenoids, glucosinolates, and polyphenols, all of which are beneficial to human health.

    If you plant kale at the right time, you will have a long season of harvest which will give you ample time to enjoy your fresh greens. Kale is typically a cool-weather vegetable but you can get a longer harvest if you plant it late in the summer to harvest in the fall and winter. It is also surprisingly hardy and frost tolerant. Certain cold-tolerant varieties will keep growing as long as the weather stays above 20°F.

    This plant produces so many large leaves that when it is mature, it takes you only a few minutes to gather enough for a nutritious meal.

    Most varieties of kale are biennial, meaning they have a two-year life cycle but people mostly grow it as an annual with a one-year growth cycle. Some kale varieties are perennial and can live for 5-7 years.

    When to Harvest Kale

    Kale is as easy to harvest as it is to grow. However, you need to know exactly the method and the right time to harvest it. So when is the best time to harvest kale? Well, this will depend on the variety or cultivar of kale that you are growing as they have different rates of growth.

    There are also two distinct harvesting stages of kale, baby kale, and mature kale. The timing of the harvest will depend on what stage you want to harvest the leaves at.

    Kale typically matures approximately 60 days after the seeds have been planted in the soil. By the time healthy plants reach this point, they will have at least 10 leaves with the larger ones on the outside and the smaller ones on the inside.

    If you want to harvest your kale leaves while they are in the baby stage, this is best done 25 to 30 days after planting the seeds.

    Kale is usually harvested in the late spring months, early summer, and again in autumn.

    The time of harvest can also depend on the growing zone you are in and the time of the year. If you have a climate that greatly favors kale growth, you can harvest kale every one or two weeks.

    Some kale gardeners even like to plant kale in the fall so that it can go through a frost before harvesting. The cold weather causes the plants to convert their starches to sugar, which greatly improves their taste.

    How to Cut Kale From Garden

    Harvesting kale is an extremely simple process. You can easily cut off the individual leaves without damaging the entire plant. This is as long as you don’t cut the central bud.

    Here are the considerations to keep in mind when harvesting kale from the garden;

    • Cut off the leaves where the leaf stem meets the main stem of the plant – instead of cutting, you can also break the leaves from the stem by pushing it down with your thumb and pulling it away from the plant.
    • Do not cut the main stem of the plant – if you cut the team off, the plant will stop producing
    • Leave about 1/3 of the leaves on the plant so that it can regenerate over time – pick as many leaves as you want from the kale plant, but do not leave it bare if you wish to continue harvesting
    • Do not cut the root of the plant – this should go without saying, but if you cut the roots of your kale plant it will die
    • Pick the largest and oldest leaves first – this will give the younger plants time to grow before they can be harvested
    • Use the same method whether you are harvesting kale in the baby or the mature method – this way, your kale will keep growing
    • While harvesting, watch out for and remove yellow or spotted leaves – remove any yellow or spotted leaves as soon as you notice them. Leaving sick or dead leaves on the plants will take up energy that the plant should be channeling toward healthy growth to extend your harvest. If you consistently spot any yellow, spotted, or wilted leaves on your plants, it could be a sign of distress. Check for any possible causes such as common kale pests like cabbage worms and aphids, overwatering, or a nutrient deficiency. Once you have established what the cause is remedy it as soon as possible to give your plant the best chance of survival. If it is a watering issue, adjust your watering schedule, if the cause is pests, include pest control in your maintenance routine, I recommend you read the article Amazing Natural Insect Pest Control Methods that Works.
    harvesting kale

    How to Harvest Baby Kale

    If you’re growing baby kale for use in salads, the best time to harvest them is 25-30 days after planting. The best variety for baby kale is the Red Russian and it is commonly grown for this purpose

    Wait until the plants have multiple leaves that are about 2-3″ in length. Just keep in mind that when you harvest the leaves smaller, the yield per plant will also be smaller.

    To harvest small kale leaves, simply use your fingers to pinch each individual leaf at the base of the stem. You can also use a sharp pair of scissors or a knife to cut the leaves. Grab a handful of leaves and cut them off about two inches above the ground. This will enable your plant to keep growing as long as you keep the central point intact.

    To keep harvesting young kale leaves, watch them carefully for about 3-4 weeks because kale can quickly outgrow the baby stage.

    How to Harvest Mature Kale

    Full-size, grown, or mature kale leaves have a tougher texture and a stronger flavor than baby leaves. Older leaves can become discolored and eventually fall off the plant. If you notice this happening, remove these leaves and only harvest the ones that still look green and healthy. When you pick mature kale leaves, ensure that you leave at least 5 central leaves on the plant so that it can continue to make food via photosynthesis and keep growing.

    For mature kale leaves, it is best to cook before consuming them or use them to make kale chips. You can also massage them thoroughly before eating them if you don’t want to cook them

    When they’re mature, they should be about the size of an adult’s palm or bigger. To harvest them, grasp the stem of the mature outer leaf at the base of the main stalk and pull down and out, away from the center, until it breaks. Repeat the same process until you have harvested all the leaves that you want. If your plants are still new or you are worried about damaging them, you can also use a knife, scissors, or running shears instead of your hands to harvest. This will help to prevent snapping the stem.

    Kale Growth Period

    Kale days to harvest is about 55-60 days after planting, as that is the regular period it takes to mature. If the kale is planted from seed in the soil, however, it can take closer t 3 months before they are full-sized.

    How to Store Kale after Harvest

    Freshly picked kale leaves can be stored and last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator if stored well. Do not store it without protection in the fridge because it will quickly wilt. Put the leaves in a ziplock plastic bag or a storage container.

    Kale can also be frozen, and last about 4-6 weeks before turning bitter. To do this properly, wash and chop the leaves before freezing them.

    If you want to keep kale in the freezer for more than 6 weeks, you can blanch it before freezing. This way it will store for about 8-12 months.

    Whichever way you decide to store your kale, follow these basic preparation steps:

    Step 1: Wash

    Wash all the harvested kale leaves thoroughly with cold water, because hot or warm water will make them wilt, and you want to maintain the crunch.

    Step 2: Cut

    Remove or cut off the stems, unless you want to eat them.

    Step 3: Dry

    Pat the leaves dry with a towel or let them air dry for about 10 minutes.

    Step 4: Put them in a bag

    Put the clean and dry leaves in a resealable storage bag or container, with a piece of paper towel to absorb moisture and prevent it from damaging the leaves.

    Step 5: Squeeze out the air

    If you’re storing them in a bag, squeeze out as much of the air as you can.

    Step 6: Store

    Store the leaves in your preferred place. If the leaves go yellow before you eat them, throw them away.

    You can grow many other green leafy vegetables like Spinach or Lettuce

    Conclusion – How to Harvest Kale So the Leaves Keep Growing

    Kale is a nutritious vegetable and can be used to prepare delicious dishes with a bit of information. Knowing when and how to harvest kale is also important, depending on what you plan to use them for. This article provided you with all the information you could ever need on how to harvest kale so the leaves keep going, kale days to maturity, and how to store your harvested kale. We hope that you found it very helpful and will now go and grow your kale and harvest it properly for long periods of time.

    Happy growing!

  • Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Many of us love to have houseplants in our various homes because they give that sweet look to our space. There are so many houseplants to choose and some of them even come in different captivating colors. A plant with purple under leaves is what we will be looking at in this post.

    These houseplants with purple underleaves give this warm texture and add a royal appeal to your indoor space. They can fit perfectly into your interiors and you can even grow them in combination with other green houseplants.

    A plant with purple under leaves will be listed here so continue reading for some insight on this.

    Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Below is the list of some common houseplants with purple under leaves:

    1.    Oyster plant

    A plant with purple under leaves that is quite popular is the oyster plant. The oyster plant originates from Mexico, Brazil, and Guatemala and this lovely plant is a resistant and hardy plant that can thrive well in containers. You can also grow this plant outdoors in your garden in areas with mild winters.

    The leaves of the oyster plant stand erect and have a height of up to 6 inches long with purple reverse growing densely on the stem forming spiral rosettes.

    Houseplants With Purple Leaves - Oyster Plant

    The amount of light an oyster plant receives usually determines the color intensity. So, if this plant is positioned in a deep shade spot, it can lose its purple hues. However, don’t expose oyster plants to direct bright sunlight because this can scorch the plant.

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    2.    Wandering jew – A plant with purple underleaves

    Another popular houseplant with purple under leaves is Wandering Jew which is also known as Tradescantia Zebrina. Wandering Jew is a modest and durable houseplant with this charming and enchanting colored creeper that grows naturally in woodland and open fields in Mexico.

    The plant is characterized by this oval, 3 to 4 inches long shiny leaves of silver-green stripes that are oppositely arranged. Its intensely colored leaves grow densely on watery and thick stems.

    Wandering Jew houseplant is a perfect fit for hanging baskets and you can place it on your east and west windows, forming a two to three feet long colorful cascade. This plant is quite tolerant to most temperatures except for freezing temperatures. The plant is easy to grow and maintain and it’s great for beginners.

    3.    Calathea medallion

    Calathea Medallion is also referred to as Calathea Veitchiana and this plant is one stunning plant with purple under leaves. The plant is from the Marantaceae family and it originates from the jungle of the Amazon and South America, where it grows under the shade of high tropical vegetation.

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    You need to take care of this plant because the broad leaves tend to react strongly to adverse conditions. Hence, you must pay close attention by providing the plant with increased humidity levels, temperature between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and moderately moist soil.

    4.    Alocasia amazonica polly

    Alocasia Amazonica Polly is a plant from the Araceae family. The plant is characterized by its large, arrow foliage with pronounced white nervation.

    This plant may not be the easiest plant to grow, but it has this captivating look that makes the extra effort worth it. It is a plant with purple underleaves grown indoors.

    However, note that the plant contains poisonous calcium oxalate and this can cause some health issues for both humans and pets.

    Provide this houseplant with bright filtered light, a humid environment, and warm conditions. So, because this is a warm-loving plant, you will need to water it during its growing season at least two times a week. Then water once every 7-14 days during winter.

    The plant doesn’t like dry air, non-permeable soil, or low temperatures. So, it’s a good idea to mist the plant often and avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight.

    Additionally, clean the shiny leather leaves regularly by using a moist cloth.

    5.    Gynura sarmentosa – Houseplants with purple underleaves

    Gynura sarmentosa is a lovely houseplant that is characterized by its nettle-like leaves covered with thick purple hairs. The plant looks so velvety and refined and it grows naturally in tropical Asia as a small shrub with shoots that rely on each other. This plant is also great for a hanging basket and its stem will spread in all directions.

    Gynura Sarmentosa thrives in warm and humid conditions. However, take note not to spray its hairy leaves.

    6.    Stromanthe sanguinea

    Stromanthe Sanguinea features this artistic white and green colored leaf surface with this intense purple reverse. This intense purple reverse is mostly pronounced at night when the plant folds its leaves.

    Care for this plant by providing it with bright but indirect sunlight, a humidity of at least 60%, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.

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    7.    Cetenanthe plant

    The cetenanthe plant is also referred to as the Never Never plant and it is from the Marantaceae family that comes from the rainforests of Northeast Brazil. The plant features this large silver-green striped oblong leaves that grow densely from the rhizome root.

    This plant grows optimally in a partially shaded spot, with well-draining soil, and a warm and humid environment that is similar to its homeland. This is why you need to provide this plant with extra moisture by spraying the leaves, using a humidifier, or simply placing them in your bathroom.

    Fuzzy Green Leaves With Purple Underneath – What is it?

    You may see a plant that has fuzzy green leaves, with purple coloring (it can sometimes look almost maroon or burgundy) underneath. If this is the case, you’re probably looking at the Velvet Calathea (otherwise known as the Calathea Rufibarba). The leaves will be long, but thin. What’s interesting is that they’re hairy underneath, which is where they get their furry nickname from.

    This particular plant is relatively easy to care for, but you need to ensure that it’s free from any pests often. And you’ll also need to ensure it receives the nutrients it requires. You should water this plant every five days or so and keep it n temperatures between 64F and 73F. While it can survive in slightly lower temperatures, it’s a tropical plant, so it does enjoy its humidity.

    Green Leaves With Purple Veins – What Does This Mean?

    Another plant that you may have seen has green leaves, that are covered in deep purple veins. If this is the case, you’re likely looking at the Fishnet Stockings Coleus. This plant gets its nickname from the veins themselves looking like stockings. However, the purple color does eventually change to green. This plant can grow up to around 2 feet in height.

    Purple Leaf Perennials: Popular Varieties

    There are many popular varieties of purple-leaf perennials. Let’s take a closer look at some of our top picks.

    • Cercis canadensis. You may know this plant better by its nickname, forest pansy. It’s a versatile plant that can last up to 20 years and can reach up to 8 meters in height if provided with the right growing conditions. This plant enjoys the sun and should be kept in well-drained soil. This plant changes colors throughout the year. Such as reddish leaves in Spring, burgundy leaves in Summer, and orange and gold in Autumn.
    • Cotinus. You may know this plant better by its nickname, royal purple. This is a shrub that has dark purple, oval-shaped, leaves. This plant enjoys the sun and will thrive in most types of soils. As long as it’s pruned often, this plant can grow up to 8 feet in height.
    • Heuchera. You may know this plant better by its nickname, the midnight rose. This plant is the perfect mixture of both purple and vibrant pink…which doesn’t sit well with some gardeners. But, I, personally, love it! However, it can be quite prone to vine weevil, so it’s best to plant outdoors, in open ground. This plant enjoys full sun or dappled shade.

    plant with purple leaves

    Purple Leaf Plant Identification

    The best way to find out what purple leaf plant you have if you’re unsure, is using an app such as Plant Net Identify. Or try to find some other obvious markers to help identify which species your plant is. Most of the time, the term “purple” is used loosely, as it’s not often that the leaf of a plant is purely purple. It often has red highlights or other colored undertones. However, in previous years, gardeners have enjoyed adding purple-leaf plants to their gardens.

    Additional Say: Plant With Purple Under Leaves

    We have listed popular houseplants with purple under leaves and some details about them. However, note that there are many other types with these features. There are many to choose from, and all are just as gorgeous as the next! Do you know of any other plant with purple under the leaves? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring! 

    FAQs

    What plant has purple under the leaf?

    Some of the common plants that have purple under their leaf include wandering Jew, oyster plant, calathea medallion, stromanthe sanguine, ctenanthe plant, gynura sarmentosa, and many more.

    Why are leaves purple underneath?

    Some plants naturally have purple leaves underneath. However, if your plant is not naturally purple underneath and it shows purple, then it may be a sign of phosphorous deficiency.

    How do you fix purple leaves?

    Fixing a plant that is showing purple leaves when it isn’t naturally purple means you have to deal with phosphorus deficiency. So, you will need to make pH adjustments and flush your plants with pH and nutrients containing phosphorus.

    How do I identify a plant by its leaves?

    You can identify a plant by its leaves if you closely look at the shape and size of the plant’s leaves. For instance, broad and wide leaves can signify that the plant is a tropical plant. Then pointy pine needles can signify that the plant is an evergreen species.

  • Do Pepper Plants Come Back: Improve Your Harvest

    Do Pepper Plants Come Back: Improve Your Harvest

    Do pepper plants come back every year? Let’s get the answers to that here. Pepper is both classified as a fruit and a vegetable according to botany and culinary definitions.

    It’s a great feeling to plant, grow, nurture, and then begin to harvest your vegetables. What is more tempting is wishing you could keep your healthy vegetables growing year after year. This applies to most pepper farmers, as the plant is a slow grower, which makes it desirable to want it to keep growing.

    It will be nice if pepper plants do grow back every year. If you live in a region where the winter is not so serious, you can definitely give it a thought. The thing is, in most parts of North America and any other place where the winter is really serious, pepper plants won’t be able to survive if they are left outside.

    The best thing is to bring your pepper plants indoors and provide them with the best indoor care, especially if they are the potted indoor variety.

    Keep reading to get more answers to the question: Do pepper plants come back every year? You will also get some tips for keeping your pepper growing year after year.

    Do Pepper Plants Come Back Every Year?

    Normally, all kinds of pepper are grown as annuals by most growers. Pepper is sown, grown, picked, and then thrown into the compost heap when the season ends.

    But the truth of the matter is that pepper plants are perennials, and if you grow them and give them in the appropriate conditions, they can grow every year.

    Pepper Plants Grow Back Every Year

    Ideal Conditions to Help Pepper Grow Back Every Year

    As we mentioned, pepper plants can grow every year if you provide them with good conditions. So, let’s take a look at how to be successful at growing peppers in any type of climatic condition.

    1.    The growing temperature

    Peppers are perennials that can come back in the spring after being dormant in the previous season. This will be surprising to many North American gardeners. Peppers are mostly grown as annuals in the United States and most temperate regions in other parts of the world.

    This is because the plant will die when temperatures dip low, especially during low winter temperatures and shorter days. Peppers can’t survive the cold winter let alone when it’s freezing cold.

    In fact, during a temperature as low as 55 degrees Fahrenheit and below, it will be a waste of time sowing seeds directly into the soil. The seeds won’t even germinate at all. And this will also have you wondering if pepper plants really do grow back every year.

    You can, however, proffer a solution of laying down black plastic mulch or other non-treated mulch to keep the soil temperature warm with a heating pad.

    2.    Soil and fertilizer type

    The ideal soil for growing peppers successfully is slightly acidic soil with pH levels of 6.5-7. Before transplanting seedlings, endeavor to break the soil up. This will help get their roots established.

    Breaking up the soil before transplanting, will also drain well, as well as retain moisture. The best type of fertilizer for peppers is compost. You can as well conduct a soil test before adding fertilizer to the soil.

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    For example, if the test shows that the soil is lacking in phosphorus, a fertilizer with phosphorus can be added to the soil. Otherwise, if the reverse is the case, there will be no need to add phosphorus to the soil. Another thing is that you need to be cautious when adding nitrogen to the soil as too much nitrogen can make the plant produce large foliage.

    Read more about Can Compost Worms Survive Winter?

    3.    Availability of sunlight and water

    For a successfully grown pepper plant, full sunlight of about six to eight hours must be available to the plants. Or rather, provide a grow light and make sure the soil temperature is constantly around 80 degrees Fahrenheit if you’re starting your pepper seeds indoors.

    Pepper plants also need constant thorough moisture. This can be achieved by not letting the soil become dry. You can encourage healthy root development by watering deeply. Too much watering may not be required during rainy seasons.

    And if you’re growing your pepper plants in sandy soil, watering will be needed more frequently. This is because, unlike loam or clay, sand cannot retain moisture.

    4.    Prepare your plants before overwintering

    It is better to plant your pepper in pots or portable raised beds if you’re planning to save them for another year.

    You can also re-transplant mature plants that were planted directly in the ground. However, re-transplanting pepper plants may lead to damaging the plants’ roots badly if you’re not careful.

    Prepare Your Plants Before Overwintering

    5.    Move pepper plants indoors

    Peppers can’t tolerate frost; hence the temperature doesn’t need to become freezing cold before they begin to die off. When the temperature constantly dips low to around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit, move them indoors.

    It doesn’t even have to be inside the house. It could be a secluded spot or covered place that can shield the plants from the chilly temperatures.

    So, when the sunlight your plants usually receive per day doesn’t stay constant at six to eight hours anymore, it indicates that your pepper plants should be moved indoors.

    Also, when you move them indoors during frost, you can use a heating pad under your pot to provide heat.

    Check out When To Harvest Broccolini – The Best Time

    Perennial Pepper Plants: Cold-Hardy Pepper Varieties

    There are cold-resistant pepper varieties, early maturers, and those that can adapt to many conditions.

    So, choosing any of these types of varieties will also help increase your chances of being successful at overwintering and growing back every year. Gardeners in the northern region will love the idea of planting these varieties, especially in regions where they have short growing seasons.

    There are also cold-tolerant varieties that can tolerate both cold and heat. You will also get to enjoy most of the cold-tolerant varieties because they are either mild or sweet.

    So, examples of cold-tolerant pepper varieties are Ratund, Highlander, Chile peppers, Carmen, Ace, and Obriy.

    Do Capsicum Plants Regrow?

    You may be curious as to whether capsicum plants regrow, like other types of peppers. And the simple answer is: yes they do. It just requires both time and cares to ensure their regrowth. Let’s take a closer look at some top tips to ensure they make it through the winter.

    • As soon as you notice the temperatures plummeting, you should place some hay bales around your plants, and ensure the plants are the same height.
    • You’ll also need to remove any peppers from the plants too. At this point, you can cover the plants and bales with a layer of glass.
    • When the frost is predicted, you may also want to cover it with a sheet, for an extra layer of protection.
    • Check that your soil is moist enough, and water when needed.
    • Once the weather begins to warm up, you can remove the glass, and then remove the hay bales once Spring hits. At this point, your capsicum is ready to regrow!

    How Long Will a Pepper Plant Live?

    When it comes to pepper plants, a range of factors can affect how long they’ll live. However, the average life span is around 3-5 years.

    Some factors you’ll need to consider when extending the life of your pepper plant are as follows:

    • Environment. The environment is the main factor. The more consistent the environment, the more likely your pepper plant will have a longer life. In fact, pepper plants have been known to last up to ten years when cared for adequately indoors. Your plants can last many years if grown outdoors too. However, you need to ensure they’re overwintered. If not, they will likely die before the next growing season.
    • Plant species. Some species of pepper will survive longer than others, as it’s just part of their nature. For example, Rocoto and Manzano peppers are both varieties that have a long life expectancy.

    How Tall Do Pepper Plants Grow?

    Unfortunately, there is no set height that your pepper plants will grow, because it all depends on the variety of pepper that you’re growing. For example, some may grow to only 20 inches in height, whereas others can grow up to 6 feet in height. It’s important to research the type of pepper you’re choosing to grow before you plant it.

    How to Overwinter Pepper Plants

    If you’re looking for a quick guide to overwinter pepper plants, then look no further. Let’s take a closer look.

    • Add soil to your new pot; around 1-2 inches.
    • Bring your pepper plant indoors and remove any remaining peppers. You’ll also need to prune the plant.
    • Remove all leaves from your plant, as well as the root ball.
    • Use scissors to trim the roots and then place them in your fresh soil.
    • Water thoroughly and place in a warm area, where the sunlight reaches.
    • Monitor and prune weekly until the growing season comes around.

    When to Overwinter Peppers

    The best time to start overwintering peppers is before the first frost. You should never let the temperature of your pepper plants go below freezing, as they are unlikely to survive.

    Will Pepper Plants Come Back After Winter?

    Yes. As long as extra precautions and care are taken with your pepper plants, they absolutely can come back after winter. And are likely to give you peppers for years to come!

    pepper plants come back after winter

    Conclusion: Do Pepper Plants Come Back?

    To conclude answer your question; do pepper plants come back? Be rest assured that even if pepper plants are grown as annuals in most regions, you can successfully grow them as perennials.

    Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to ensuring that your pepper plants come back every year? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring! 

    FAQs

    How do I save pepper plants for next year?

    You can save your pepper for the next year by supplying adequate growing conditions to your pepper plants. Pepper is naturally a perennial crop so it’s possible to grow them for the following year.

    How many years can pepper plants live?

    The duration pepper plant can live is between 1.5 years to 3 years. So, this shows that pepper plants are perennials if you provide them with the right growing conditions to live through another year.

    Will pepper plants come back after winter?

    If you expose your pepper plant to chilly temperatures, they may not survive. So, your pepper plant may not come back after winter. This is why you need to shelter your pepper plant if you want them to overwinter.