Grower Today

Category: Plants

  • How Big Should Tomato Seedlings Be Before Transplanting?

    How Big Should Tomato Seedlings Be Before Transplanting?

    Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants to grow among gardeners of all experience levels. However, you may wonder, how big should tomato seedlings be before transplanting? It is important to know this in order to help your tomato plants thrive.

    Under the right conditions, tomato plants will thrive and grow an abundance of fruit. Transplanting them at the right time is key to allowing them to successfully grow. If you do it too early, you risk your plant failing to grow properly.

    What Is Transplanting?

    In gardening, transplanting is the technique used for moving a plant from one location to another. The plant will be fully germinated or mature during the process of moving. The process can be done when moving a plant from a pot to a garden or moving it from one location in the garden to another.

    There are several reasons why a person may transplant a plant. When buying a plant from a garden store, it is common to move the plant from the pot it came into a larger pot or a garden. People may also transplant a plant if the surrounding plants are diseased or have pests in order to protect it.

    In addition, transplanting can help extend the growing season. Different plant species will react differently to transplanting, so it is important to do it with care and proper research.

    What Is Transplanting

    When To Transplant Tomato Seedlings

    When tomato seedlings are three to four inches tall and have their second set of leaves, they are ready to transplant. Anytime before this and they will likely be too fragile and not yet ready.

    In addition, you will want to make sure the nighttime temperatures are at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is much lower than that, it will be too cold for your tomato seedlings.

    Some gardeners will also choose to a second transplant of their tomato plants. This second transplant should be done when the tomatoes are six to ten inches tall. By doing a second transplant, you can help ensure your plant will have a good root system.

    How To Transplant Tomato Plants

    When transplanting tomato seedlings that are three to four inches tall to a new container, choose one that is deep. This will help the roots develop and create a strong plant. When planting, use the same soil you did when germinating them.

    Before transplanting, water the seedlings as moist soil will cling to the roots and help the plant from drying out. Then, carefully lever the seedlings out of the soil and try to lift the plants by their leaves rather than the stem.

    Once safely removed from their original pot, place them in the new, larger pot three inches apart from each other. Set the soil firmly around the plant, going all the way up to the first set of leaves if possible.

    Lightly water the soil and keep your seedlings out of bright sunlight for a day or two. Use liquid fertilizer once a week as they grow.

    They will generally need at least two weeks in their containers before you transfer them to your garden. Always plant tomato seedlings with care and never grab them by the stem.

    Second Transplant

    If you want to transplant your seedlings for a second time before planting them in the garden, wait until they are at least six to 10 inches tall. This will help ensure they have a healthy root system.

    You can transfer them individually to half-gallon milk jugs or four- to six-inch-diameter pots. Transplant them just as you did the first time.

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    Transplanting To The Garden

    When transplanting your tomatoes to your garden, dig a hole in your garden bed that is a few inches deeper than the current depth of the pot the seedlings are in. Dig the holes at least a few inches apart to give them plenty of room to grow.

    Carefully remove your plants from their container and transfer them to the garden bed. Cover the plant up with dirt, right till the first set of leaves if they are seedlings. Water your tomatoes right after moving them.

    Ideal Growing Conditions

    Tomatoes do best in well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun for the majority of daylight. They should receive at least six to eight hours of full sun a day in order for them to produce an abundance of fruit.

    They do best in climates with temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. In addition, they should also receive one inch of water a week to allow them to grow healthy and strong.

    They do best in soil that is slightly acidic, between 6.2 to 6.8. Since they strive for warmth, they are generally planted in late spring to early summer. They will also benefit from compost and fertilizer.

    Ideal Growing Conditions

    Tomatoes are generally harvested mid to late summer. Once you pick them, store them indoors which allows them to ripen more. They do best in cool temperatures, however, you don’t need to store them in the fridge.

    FAQs

    When should I transplant tomato seedlings?

    Transplanting tomatoes is not something you should rush into. It is a delicate operation and one which requires experience to pull off successfully. The best time to plant tomatoes is when the soil has warmed up and the nights have become longer. Tomato seedlings should be planted into a potting mix or into the ground as soon as they sprout.

    How do you transplant tomato seedlings?

    You can transplant tomatoes either as a single plant or as a cluster of several plants. When you are transplanting your tomatoes, make sure they are well-established before you do so. Tomatoes grown from seed will take approximately three months to get into full production. It’s best to wait until after the first frost before you transplant. Transplanting tomatoes is a great way to extend their growing season.
    The following are guidelines for when you should transplant your tomatoes: In spring: Start transplants outside in containers at least 2 weeks before last frost. Do not transplant when soil is frozen. In summer: If you are planting in the ground, wait until temperatures are consistently above 50°F. In fall: If you have had a long dry spell, it’s a good idea to transplant tomato seedlings into the ground now rather than waiting for next spring. You can also plant your tomatoes in containers and bring them inside when the weather starts getting cooler. Make sure you get them in before the first frost.
    Transplanting your tomatoes is a relatively simple process. Here’s how to do it: Remove the seedling from its container and gently loosen the roots. Take care not to damage the root system. Place the seedling in a hole that is about twice as wide as the seedling. The bottom of the hole should be slightly below the level of the surrounding soil. Add soil until it is just above the top of the seedling’s stem. This will help the plant establish quickly.

    How do I start a new tomato plant?

    Tomatoes are easy to start from seed. You can either buy ready-made seeds or sow your own. For those who want to sow their own, it is best to buy a packet of tomato seeds which have been pre-germinated. These seeds will already be planted in a tray. You then take the tray and place it into a warm environment for about two weeks until the seeds start to germinate. After this period, you can plant them into a pot or directly into the ground.

    How big should seedlings be before transplanting?

    You should go with 4 inch-tall.
    Plant the seedlings in fertile soil. Fertile soil is rich in nutrients, so it’s best for young plants. You can improve the soil by adding some fertilizer, compost, peat moss or other organic material. The soil should be moist but not wet. Water your seedlings regularly.

    The best time to plant is when the soil is warm, dry and well-drained. Seedlings should be started in flats, pots or cell packs (a small flat container with individual cells that can be used for a single plant) and placed into larger containers as they grow. It’s important to avoid transplant shock by gradually exposing young plants to the outside world. You don’t have to expose them to full sunlight.

    Knowing How Big Should Tomato Seedlings Be Before Transplanting

    Transplanting tomato seedlings is an important process in their development. It helps with the growth of the stems to promote a strong, healthy plant.

    When transplanting your tomato seedlings, wait until they are at least three to four inches tall and have their second set of leaves. In addition, you can also transport them again when they are six to ten inches tall to help further develop their roots.

    Transplanting should always be done with care and you should never hold them by the stems. Instead, it is better to grab them by the leaves. Then, when planting them as seedlings, you can cover them with soil all the way up to the first set of leaves to help them grow.

    Do you have any questions on how big should tomato seedlings be before transplanting? If so, please ask any questions regarding transplanting your tomato seedlings and growing tomato plants in the comment section below.

  • The Lowest Temperature For Tomatoes And Peppers

    The Lowest Temperature For Tomatoes And Peppers

    Every gardener should be aware of the lowest temperature for tomatoes and peppers to save them before the frost season begins.

    Gardening is not for the faint-hearted; sometimes it’s hard, sometimes it’s smooth. This is true more so when you think about the right time to plant your crop, especially if it does not do well in frost.

    Suppose you have plenty of decent gardening and realize that the weather is threatening with an early frost you have to protect it. Tomatoes and peppers are some of the crops that do not do well in the winter season. You have to harvest them before the frost falls and try to ripen them indoors. You can save your plants right in the garden by building a shade over them to extend the gardening season.

    If you are trying to grow tomatoes, eggplant, or peppers, it is essential to learn what is the lowest temperature these plants can take.  In this article, we will look at both the lowest and the highest temperatures that these plants are able to survive under.

    Lowest Temperatures For Tomatoes And Peppers

    According to the USDA Research Service, tomatoes show problems when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool nighttime temperatures interfere with the tomato’s ability to convert the sunlight into sugars via a process known as photosynthesis.

    Low temperatures also reduce pollen production in tomatoes and peppers, resulting in less fruit production or fruits deformation. You may also experience scars and cracks on the bottom end of your fruit that occur during the night when temperatures drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Lowest Temperatures For Tomatoes And Peppers

    Protecting Your Tomatoes And Peppers From The Lowest Temperatures

    To protect your tomato and pepper plants from frost, you will need two things –  sturdy garden stakes or tomato cages and bubble wrap. The garden stakes or tomato cages will form the structure that will allow you to wrap the bubble wrap around, protecting your plants.

    Ensure that your bubble wrap is firm so that it doesn’t cause a mess of your tomato and pepper plants. Choose a study structure long enough to cover your tomato plant’s height. You can install the cage once you plant or over the existing plants towards the end of the season with ease.

    Once you have the tomato cage over the plant, wrap the bubble wrap around the cage and use duct tape to secure it in place. Wrap it around the cage, starting from the ground level all the way up to a few inches above the top of the plant. Ensure that you cover the top of the plant as well.

    The sturdy structure and bubble wrap are enough to protect your plants until their harvest time. But to avoid all the hassle, ensure that you plant your tomatoes and peppers at the right time. If you realize that you are late, it is essential to look for varieties that easily stand lower temperatures.

    Germination And Growing Temperatures For Tomatoes And Peppers

    Can pepper plants survive frost?  The minimum temperature to germinate and grow tomatoes and peppers is at least 15 degrees Centigrade.  However, germination will happen faster when the temperature is above 20 to 24 degrees centigrade.

    The pepper temperature tolerance for nighttime weather is around 13.5 degrees centigrade.  However, the daytime temperature should not fall below 15 degrees Centigrade for a week or more. If this happens, you will get stunted crops.

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    If the nighttime temperatures drop below 13.5 degrees centigrade, a few things go wrong. Pollen fails to develop, and flowers that open the following morning do not set fruit.

    That said, the ideal temperature for growing tomatoes and peppers should range between 20 degrees and 24 degrees centigrade.

    We can now clearly answer the question ‘can peppers survive frost’ from the above information.

    Tomato Varieties For Cooler Climates

    Generally, tomatoes require a favorable temperature between 15 degrees to 32 degrees Centigrade to survive. However, there are specific tomato varieties purposely bred for cooler climates with the ability to tolerate temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  The best choices for such weather are short to mid-season tomatoes.

    These tomatoes set fruit in cooler temperatures and reach maturity in the shortest number of days, around 52 to 70 days. Some hybrid examples include:

    • Celebrity
    • Golden nugget
    • Subarctic plenty tomato
    • Husky gold
    • Orange pixie
    • Oregon spring
    • Siletz
    • Some heirloom varieties include
    • Legend
    • Bush beefsteak
    • Manitoba
    • Kimberly
    • New Yorker
    • Glacier
    • Gregori’s Altai
    • Galina
    • Grushovka
    Tomato Varieties For Cooler Climates

    Tomato Varieties For Hot Regions

    When we talk about the lowest temperatures for tomatoes and peppers, it would be good to also talk about the right tomatoes for the hot regions.

    Temperatures that rise above 27 degrees centigrade, cause both tomatoes and peppers to suffer from too much heat. When they hit 32 degrees centigrade, the fruits will fail to set, and you will lose productivity on your plants. Countries or regions that enjoy a hot climate pushes tomato and pepper farmers to grow them under shade.

    The heat-tolerant varieties that you can grow in these regions include:

    • Sunbeam
    • Bella Rosa
    • Florida
    • Sunny Bell
    • Big beef
    • Mountain crest
    • Porter
    • Spitfire
    • Solar fire
    • Fourth of July
    • Heatwave
    • Homestead
    • Super fantastic
    • Sunchaser
    • Sweet 100
    • Arkansas traveler
    • Green zebra

    So How Do You Solve The Temperature Problem In Tomatoes And Peppers

    Although there is not much you can do about a change of temperatures, especially these days of climate change; you can try a few remedies

    First, don’t plant your peppers and  tomatoes in the wrong season

    Second, ensure the soil is at the proper temperatures when growing.

    Besides planting cold-hardy tomato varieties, you can also cover your peppers and tomatoes with a structure to keep the fruit warm until it matures and ripens.

    Dark plastic coverings raise the temperatures by 5 to 10 degrees, while clear plastic coverings warm the tomatoes by up to 20 degrees. Using either of the coverings is enough to save your tomatoes and pepper crop

    FAQs

    Can tomatoes handle 40 degree weather?

    Yes, tomatoes can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

    What are the effects of low temperature on tomatoes?

    The effect of low temperature on tomatoes is to increase the amount of water in the fruit and to slow down growth. This means that the tomato will be less firm and more juicy, but not necessarily smaller.

    What is the lowest temperature peppers can tolerate?

    In terms of their growing environment, I would say that they could tolerate at least -10°C. I live in a temperate climate. They are not as cold tolerant as some other fruits and vegetables though.
    But they are pretty sensitive to frost. Make sure you have adequate drainage and that your soil isn’t too wet.
    Peppers are extremely sensitive to low temperatures. In general, they cannot be stored in the refrigerator below 40°F. When peppers are stored at temperatures above 60°F, they lose their flavor, color, and texture and may not ripen properly.

    When can I put my pepper plants outside?

    If you live in an area where the temperature is not expected to drop below freezing for at least two weeks, then it’s okay to put your pepper plants out.
    Most peppers will be fine to plant outside after all danger of frost is over. You can start them in the greenhouse in late spring or early fall if you want them to flower indoors first. Some varieties may not like being transplanted and may bolt. If this happens, you can transplant them again later when they are larger and less likely to bolt.

    Can peppers survive a light frost?

    Yes, most likely. The hardiest of the common pepper varieties are the Bells, which can handle down to -7°C (-20°F). The sweet peppers should also be able to survive, but they will need to have been grown under cover or protected from the wind, and the temperature inside will need to be kept well above freezing, say 12-15°C (54-59°F).

    Can tomatoes grow in cold weather?

    The ideal temperature for growing tomatoes is around 60 degrees. Cold weather slows down growth, which can result in stunted fruit. In milder climates, tomatoes can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees, but they will not grow and may even die.

    How do tomatoes grow?

    This plant’s life cycle includes its vegetative (growing) and reproductive (fruiting) stages.
    Vegetative growth occurs in the spring and summer months. Reproductive growth occurs in the fall and winter months. The second is by looking at a plant’s growing season, which begins in spring and ends in fall. The growing season refers to the time that a plant is actively growing and producing fruit. This is the same as your growing season, which is determined by the length of the day. If your growing season is long, you can expect your tomato plants to produce fruit in the fall. If your growing season is short, your plants will not produce fruit until spring. Tomatoes have a long growing season. The growing season is determined by the length of the day. If the length of the day is shorter than 12 hours, the growing season is shorter. If the length of the day is 12 hours or longer, the growing season is longer.

    Conclusion

    Temperature change is one of the adverse effects on plants that affect their health and productivity.  It is critical to prevent your crop from both the hot and cold weather extremes that face all gardeners at different times of the year.

    All the best as you work to overcome climate change that could be detrimental to your crop.

  • What Is Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant Tomatoes

    What Is Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant Tomatoes

    Septoria leaf spot-resistant tomatoes are a prevalent disease affecting tomato plants and other plants like eggplants and potatoes.

    This leaf spot is not necessarily fatal, but it spreads rapidly and quickly defoliate and weakens your plants making them unable to bear fruit.

    Signs Of Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant Tomatoes

    Tomato septoria leaf spots start as a circular spot on the undersides of older leaves at the bottom of the plant. These spots have a  dark brown margin and lighter grey centers. A yellow color may surround the area, which is about 1.6 to 3.2 mm.

    As the septoria tomatoes leaf spots develop, the areas get larger by merging. When viewed under a magnifying glass, you will see the fungus that looks like dark brown pimples. This sign distinguishes the septoria-resistant tomatoes leaf spot from other leaf spotting diseases.

    Signs Of Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant Tomatoes

    This disease can occur at any stage in tomato plants’ life, although it commonly happens in the older stages of a tomato plant. These spots may also appear on the stems or the blossoms. However, they do not affect the fruits.

    The septoria leaf spot-resistant disease spreads rapidly across your tomato garden. If left untreated, the septoria leaf spot causes the leaves to turn yellow, dry out, and fall off. This weakens the plant and sends it into decline. This plant will not continue producing or maturing the exposed tomato fruits.

    How Does Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant Disease In Tomatoes Spread

    The fungus spores that cause this disease are very good at hiding and waiting for the best conditions to thrive. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 59 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can travel great distances in the hope of finding the right conditions.

    The septoria fungus leaves on the fallen tomato plants the breeze or weeds that have carried the disease before. It also overwinters successfully on its own, meaning that change of weather does not kill this fungus.

    Splashing water while watering your tomato plants is a common way to spread this fungus. Insects like beetles or your hands and clothes can also spread it.

    If the conditions are moist and favorable, it only takes 2 weeks for your entire garden to be fully infected.

    The spores can quickly germinate within 48 hours in the leaf spots develop in as little as 5 days.  The pycnidia appear within 7 to 10 days, and the fungus can produce small spills within 10 to 13 days.

    Spores do not infect the plants unless there’s free moisture, so infections are low during the dry days but are more likely to escalate on rainy days.

    Several plants in the nightshade family are vulnerable to this infection and serve as potential hosts, including potatoes and eggplant.  Common weeds like horsenettle, nightshade, jimson weed, and smooth ground cherry.  They can produce even more spores and infect your tomato plants easily.

    How To Treat Septoria Leaf – Spot Resistance On Tomatoes

    There are a few options for treating this disease. They include:

      • Removing the Infected Leaves or Plants Immediately. Immediately you notice infected leaves remove them immediately, and be sure to wash your hands and pruners thoroughly before touching an infected plant.
      • Use Chemical Fungicides. Even though these options are not ideal, they could be the only option for controlling advanced septoria infections. Choose the least toxic and most effective fungicides in the market.
      • Consider Using Organic Fungicide Options. Organic fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or copper will help prevent the spreading of this disease. As soon as you notice the first symptoms, begin sprain and follow the label instructions for continued management.

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    Preventing Septoria Leaf Spot-Resistant On Tomatoes

    It is sometimes hard to avoid septoria leaf spot altogether because it is prevalent and requires the ideal conditions to thrive. However, there are some precautions you can take to lower the likelihood of septoria leaf spots from occurring

    Use Disease-free Seed

    This fungus can be passed on by seeds.  To be on the safe side, don’t save seeds from infected plants. If you’re keeping your tomato seeds, it is best to thoroughly process them to help get rid of any lingering strains of the disease.

    Start Your Crop In A Clean Garden

    After harvesting, dispose of all the affected plants. This fungus has been strong enough to overwinter on the remains of dead plants for many years. Therefore, it is essential to dispose of all the affected plants far away from the garden and not to add them to your compost pile. Be sure to dispose of it away from any eggplants or potatoes you could be growing.

    Provide Room For Air Circulation

    When growing your tomatoes, leave some space between your tomato plants so that there’s good airflow. Hang them for support, so they’re not touching the ground and are not all bunched up together. Good air circulation is critical during damp or rainy weather.

    Avoid Overhead Watering

    Water is one significant way that the septoria leaf spot spreads. Keeping water off the leaves when you irrigate is essential and only watering the base of the plant. Yes, it’s impossible to keep the rain off your plants, but every bit of caution helps.

    Avoid Overhead Watering

    Mulch Below The Plants

    A layer of mulch helps prevent spores that are on the ground from splashing up onto the lower leaves during watering.

    Plant Your Next Season Of Tomatoes In A Different Section Of Your Garden

    Practice crop rotation so that you avoid getting your new tomatoes infected with the septoria leaf spot.

    Final Thoughts

    The only way to defeat the septoria leaf spot resistance in tomatoes is to spot it immediately. If you are a constant tomato farmer, septoria leaf spot can be a severe problem for your tomatoes if not dealt with.

    The fungus does not infect the fruit, but the infection could result in poorly developed tomatoes and ruin your crop?  If this disease strikes your plants, you may use fungicides to keep it under control despite your efforts to prevent the infection.

    Be on the lookout for this leaf infection and deal with it as soon as you notice it!

  • How To Tell If Baby Carrots Are Bad

    How To Tell If Baby Carrots Are Bad

    Do you know how to tell if baby carrots are bad or still in good condition to be consumed? If not, join many others and learn how to.

    Do you love munching on fresh carrots throughout the day? Most people do! Fresh carrots are a delicacy you will find in most homes. Storing them in the refrigerator makes it more convenient instead of heading to the grocery after every few days.

    However, the tricky part comes in storing these vegetables. Sometimes it is hard to know when they’re going bad until they’re entirely rotten. The worst thing about it is that vegetables do not come with an expiration date label.

    That said, how can you tell if carrots are bad or still safe for consumption? This article will look at various ways to know if carrots are good and everything about storing them.

    Do Baby Carrots Go Bad?

    The first and most important thing we all need to understand is carrots can go bad. Both regular carrots and baby carrots are the same. They have the same perishability making them susceptible to rot after a few days.

    It is therefore essential to pay attention to the time you have a store purchase your carrots to put into consideration how long they will last.

    Do Baby Carrots Go Bad

    With that in mind, here few things you should consider about your carrot’s shelf life:

      • If you store your carrots in a warm area, they will only last up to 4 days

      • Storing your carrots in the refrigerator can last you up to four weeks

      • When stored in the freezer, they will be able to maintain their optimum freshness for 12 months. They can still be safe for consumption even beyond this period if they have not shown any signs of rotting.

      • If you chop your carrots and place them in the refrigerator, you can use them for about 2 to 3 weeks.

      • Cooked carrots stored in the refrigerator can last for three to five days.

      • Cooked carrots stored in the freezer can last up to 12 months.

    How To Tell If Baby Carrots Are Bad

    As emphasis, baby carrots go bad in the same way usual carrots do. The only difference is that baby carrots are too short to bend when testing them for wilting. The surest signs of carrots going bad are visible mold, slimy texture, or bad smells.

    The easiest way to tell when carrots go bad is to use the following steps.

    Look For White Blush

    White blush forms on the surface of the carrots as white lines. It is a thin layer of dehydrated carrots that develops when exposed to the atmosphere causing the outer portion of the skin to dry. If you notice these white lines on your carrots, they are still safe for consumption. However, keep in mind that this is a sign your carrots are about to die out anytime soon. If these lines are too many, you should throw away your carrots.

    Look For White Blush

    Check For Spots

    Fresh carrots have flawless skin without spots. When you notice white or darker areas on the carrot skin, this means rotting has started taking place. These carrots are not safe for consumption and should be discarded.

    Check For Consistency

    If your carrots have stayed out for a week or so out of the refrigerator, touch them to check if any parts have a mushy consistency or slimy part on their surface. If you notice any of these signs, throw this out immediately. These are slimy or rotten carrots that could lead to unwanted health issues. You can also check the thickness or size of the full carrot stop if it is a bit thinner than its original size; they are also bad and need to be thrown out.

    Read more about Can You Eat A Tomato With Seeds Sprouting Inside

    Smell Your Carrots

    Fresh carrots do not emit any foul smell. If your carrots are already rotten, they will release an unwanted odor. The smell is a result of growing bacteria in the carrots. If you notice any weird smells, throw them out right away.

    How Can You Extend Your Carrots Shelf Life?

    If you love munching on raw carrots or using them for cooking your favorite dishes, there’s nothing wrong with stocking up a good amount. One more tip you need to learn is how to store your carrots properly.

    You also need to know how to prolong the shelf life, especially for sliced and cooked carrots. The best way is to freeze your carrots or refrigerate them.

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    Here are some quick tips to help you do that.

    • Quick Freeze Cooked Carrots.  If you have thoroughly cooked your carrots, quick-freeze them so you maintain their freshness, texture, and taste. You can do this by arranging your carrot slices on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer. Once fully frozen, place these frozen carrots in a sealed container or ziplock bag.
    • Blanch Your Sliced Carrots Before Storing Them.  If you want to keep your carrots sliced, it is best to blanch them first. Once they have cooled down, drain them and place them in zip-locked bags removing as much air from them as possible. To ensure no air remains in the Ziploc bags, you can use a vacuum sealing system.

    What Happens if You Eat Bad Baby Carrots?

    You could get food poisoning if you eat bad baby carrots. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and fever.

    If you suspect you ate rotten baby carrots, it’s important to pay attention to your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. You might have trouble keeping fluids down if your symptoms are severe. In this case, getting medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Food poisoning can lead to dehydration and other serious complications.

    You should always handle and store baby carrots properly. This will help prevent them from going bad. Store your baby carrots in the refrigerator to avoid spoilage, and wash them thoroughly before eating them raw or using them for cooking.

    If you notice that your baby carrots are discolored or have an off odor, avoid eating them. These are signs of spoilage.

    Can You Get Sick From Slimy Carrots?

    Slimy carrots are a sign of spoilage. If you notice your carrots are slimy, they are unsafe to eat. Consuming spoiled carrots could lead to food poisoning.

    Some home cooks believe carrots with a thin slime layer are still edible. This might be true if the carrots have no foul odor and a firm texture. However, if your carrots have a thick slime layer accompanied by a foul smell and soft texture, it is better discarded.

    Slime on carrots is caused by bacteria. These bacteria thrive when carrots receive improper ventilation or have started to rot. Carrots naturally have bacteria from the ground on their skin. The bacteria have no oxygen when this veggie is vacuum sealed or stored in airtight containers. They need oxygen to survive, and without it, they need to resort to other forms of aspiration. One such is an anaerobic aspiration. During this process, the bacteria produce an acid that presents as a slimy layer.

    You should store your carrots in cool open spaces. I also suggest eating damaged carrots first to prevent rotting. Bacteria create slime on rotten skin, and the slime can spread if one carrot is infected.

    Conclusion

    Carrots are some of the healthiest vegetables you can get your hands on. But consuming spoilt carrots could do you more harm than good.

    To protect yourself from eating rotten carrots, it is best to store your carrots properly and try to prolong their shelf life as best as you can.  Floppy carrots can be consumed, but one thing you need to know is the floppiness that happens due to dehydration. After all, carrots are 80-95% water.

    To regain their stiffness, you can place the flaccid carrots in cold water for up to 3 to 5 hours before use. Afterward, you will find that they are nice and firm again.

    However, don’t forget that their vitamins are water-soluble; therefore, the carrots may not be as nutritious. This is because they will have lost most of their nutrients due to dehydration.

    FAQs

    Do baby carrots really go bad?

    Yes, they do go bad. It’s a very common misconception. They do, and if you don’t eat them, or cook them, then they will eventually go bad. They are perishable, and it’s only a matter of time before they start to lose their freshness and flavour.

    Like many foods that have a shelf life, baby carrots (sometimes called microgreens) can lose their color and flavor if not refrigerated.

    Are baby carrots supposed to be slimy?

    No, they’re not. They are meant to be crunchy and firm, just like any other vegetable.

    I used to think that the reason they are slimy is because they are grown in a wetter environment than most vegetables (for example, soil instead of sand).

    How fast do baby carrots go bad?

    I think this depends on the type of carrots you are buying. If you are buying organic, then they are most likely to last longer. In terms of freezing, I don’t recommend it because they get mushy and won’t cook up as well. It’s not worth it to me, so I just eat them as soon as possible. The only thing I would suggest is to make sure they are cooked, then refrigerate in an airtight container. That way you can just pop one in your mouth without worrying about it getting cold.

    When they are well refrigerated they should last around a month.

    What should a healthy carrot look like?

    The scientists have identified the most important factors for making an ideal carrot. They found that a carrot’s “ideal” look is determined by its size and the ratio of its green to white parts. This means that if you are growing your own carrots, you can make them more attractive by adjusting the amount of green on the vegetable.

    How can I make baby carrots last longer?

    Wash the baby carrots and cut them in half, then put them in a ziplock bag and add them to a bowl of ice cold water.

    Let the carrots soak in the ice cold water for 24 hours. This will keep them fresh and crisp for up to a week. If you want to use the carrot for baby food, rinse it off and cut it into pieces that are about 1/2 inch thick.

    Should you store baby carrots in water?

    The debate over whether to store baby carrots in water or not has raged for years. While some claim that baby carrots need to be stored in water, others believe they don’t need to be stored at all. The reason for the controversy is that the way in which you store them may affect their taste and appearance, as well as their nutritional value.

    Yes! They’ll be softer and fresher if stored this way, but be sure to change the water after a few days.

  • Can I Grow Cucumbers In A Pot? – Step-By-Step Guide

    Can I Grow Cucumbers In A Pot? – Step-By-Step Guide

    Can I grow cucumbers in a pot is a question most gardeners ask in anticipation of growing this crop on their patios or balconies.

    Cucumbers may seem like they cannot grow in pots, yet they make excellent container plants producing an abundance of crops.

    The main trick to growing cucumbers in pots is to get the best varieties.  Cucumbers will thrive in your container garden as long as you have a big enough container and trellis for support.

    You will also need a warm and sunny spot and the know-how to grow these fresh vegetables.

    How To Grow Cucumbers In Pots

    Before we learn about growing cucumber in pots, it is best to talk about cucumber varieties. This can be confusing to many who do not understand that different types do well in different conditions.

    Cucumbers are part of the gourd family, along with watermelons, pumpkins and squash. Though considered vegetables, they are technically fruits, much like tomatoes.

    There are two varieties of cucumbers – the vining and the bush. Bush varieties are more compact and spread lesser than the vining varieties, making them perfect for containers.

    How To Grow Cucumbers In Pots

    Cucumbers have further been classified as slicers and picklers. Slicers are best eaten fresh in sandwiches and salads. They have thinner skin and a mild flavour. Pickling cucumbers have a thicker skin and do not taste as pleasant when eaten raw. These are best for pickling because they do well in brine, maintaining their excellent crunchy texture.

    We can still classify cucumbers further by either burps or burpless. Cucumbers carry a compound known as cucurbitacin. This compound upsets the stomach. Some varieties that have thinner skin and fewer seeds have lower levels of cucurbitacin. These varieties may be labelled burpless, but they’re not a guarantee.

    That said, don’t be confused about what type to grow. Remember, bush varieties do well in pots.

    Which Cucumber Varieties Do Best In Containers

    The bush varieties do well in container gardens as long as you support them early in the growth journey. Here are some recommended types by gardening experts

    Growing Slicing Cucumbers

      • Bush Champion. This variety produces lots of crops with big fruit at least 8 to 12 inches long.

      • Bush Crop. It produces plenty of medium green fruits that measure about 6 inches long

      • Potluck. This variety produces Bush cucumbers that measure between 6 to 8 inches long.

      • Salad Bush Hybrid.  It produces up to 8 inches of fruits on this disease-resistant plant.

      • Space Master 80. This is a prolific plant that produces 7 to 8 inches of fruits.

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    The Pickling Cucumber

      • Picklebush. This variety produces dark green fruits at least four inches long.

      • Little Leaf. The little leaf variety produces fruits that are medium length, at least three to five inches long and are best for eating fresh. This variety is highly disease and stress resistance.

      • Market More. This variety has dark green fruits measuring 6 to 8 inches long.

      • Northern Pickling. It is a heavy producer of small to medium fruits that are best for pickling. It matures fast, at least in 48 Days.

    How To Grow Cucumbers In A Pot –  Seeds Or Transplants

    Cucumber seeds can be sown directly into the soil. The seedlings don’t like root disturbance and can be difficult to transplant. For this reason, it is best to sow direct into containers or your garden beds.

    Ideally, it is best to start your seeds in the growing pot outdoors where it’s going to be during its growing season. Ensure the last frost has already passed before sowing your seeds.

    To sow your cucumber seeds in a container, follow the following steps

    • Step 1. Sow at least 2 to 3 seeds in each pot. Plant them about half an inch deep. Use high-quality potting mix and soil, adding a slow-release organic fertilizer or aged compost manure. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients from germination onwards. You should expect your seeds to germinate in at least 1 to 2 weeks.
    • Step 2. Water your sown seeds well, keeping the soil consistently moist until germination happens.

    • Step 3. Depending on the cucumber variety and the size of your container, remove some of the seedlings and leave at least 1 per pot. When your seedlings are a few weeks old, you will need to thin them down to 1 seedling by snipping the weaker ones out on the soil level.
    • Step 4. Remember to introduce trellis or other support as early as possible

    If you decide to start your cucumber seeds indoors, be sure to sow at the right time at least 3 to 4 weeks before you move them to the pots. If you plant them too early, you will have overgrown plants that could flower and fruit while still indoors.  It will be difficult to transplant the overgrown seedlings, and they may never live up to their production potential.

    When ready to transplant your indoor seedlings, carefully remove them from their germination trays and tuck them into the potting mix without disturbing the root ball.

    Water them adequately after that.

    Grow Cucumbers In A Pot- The Size Of Pots To Use

    Cucumbers require plenty of room, food, water, and full sun. They do not thrive in poor dry soils and small pots.

    Cucumber plants a big, and they require plenty of room to grow. Choose a container that holds at least 5 gallons of soil for each cucumber plant. The bigger the container, the better your plant will thrive. Fill your pot with good quality potting mix.  Do not use garden soil as it carries pests and bacteria that could harm your plants.

    Grow Cucumbers In A Pot- The Size Of Pots To Use

    Next, choose a spot on your deck patio or balcony that gets full sun for at least six to eight hours per day and place your pot there.

    Conclusion – Can I Grow Cucumbers In A Pot

    As we have learnt, growing pickling cucumbers in containers is easy and can be done almost the same way as the garden requires.

    Cucumbers are an essential summer vegetable that cools you off during the hot season. They are easy to grow and highly productive, even in containers. Next time someone asks you, can you grow cucumbers in a pot? Lead them to your patio or balcony and let them enjoy the view of your thriving cucumbers.

    You don’t need a big garden to grow cucumbers. Provide them with sunshine, consistent moisture, and a big pot, and soon enough, you will enjoy a bumper crop of crisp fruits all summer long.

    As if that’s not enough, cucumbers grown in pots have fewer issues with diseases and pests, reducing any potential problems that face these plants.

  • Do You Use Cilantro Stems?

    Do You Use Cilantro Stems?

    Cilantro is a popular herb to use in cooking. It is versatile and is great for use in salsas, soups, curries, and much more. Though the leaves are commonly used, many people wonder, do you use stems of cilantro?

    Cilantro is readily available in most grocery stores and can also be grown in your own home garden. It is a great herb that many chefs like to have on hand in their kitchens. It has a signature taste that wonderfully complements many different dishes.

    Using Cilantro In Cooking

    Cilantro is a type of annual herb that is part of the family Apiaceae. It is also called coriander, Chinese parsley, or dhania. Though the leaves and seeds are the most commonly used parts, the stems, along with the rest of the plant are edible.

    Cilantro has a taste that is slightly tart, similar to that of a lemon or lime. However, for some people, it has a taste of dish soap. This is a result of a variation in a group of olfactory-receptor genes that some people have, which leads them to experience a soapy flavor.

    Cilantro leaves are popular for use in chutneys, salads, salsa, and guacamole. In addition, many people use it to garnish soup, fish, and meat.

    The seeds can be used both whole dried and ground. When they heat up, the aroma and flavor heighten. As a spice, it is used in garam masala, curries, sausages, beer, and in pickling vegetables as well.

    Cilantro also comes with many health benefits as well. It is beneficial for your digestive health and is even helps your skin. In addition, it can also help with pain, inflammation, and anti-fungal properties.

    do you eat cilantro stems

    Do You Use Stems Of Cilantro?

    So, you may wonder, do you eat cilantro stems? Despite what some people think, cilantro stems are edible. Though other herbs may not have stems that are edible or taste good, cilantro does.

    In fact, they can be great for cooking as they are tender and flavorful, which is great for many dishes. The stems also have a crunchy texture, which can be great for adding texture to many dishes.

    The stems of cilantro can be great for using in salsas, like pico de Gallo, sandwiches, sauces, soups, and much more. They have the same great taste as the leaves and can be just as great to use.

    How To Chop Cilantro

    To start off, wash off your cilantro and then pat it dry. Then, line it up and chop off the bigger, thicker part of the stems at the bottom, if desired. Sometimes the bottoms of the stems can be too thick and woody for some people’s preferences.

    Then, fold cilantro in half and begin chopping it. Use a sharp knife to finely chop it up by doing a rolling motion with the knife. You can chop it as finely as you like depending on your recipe.

    When chopping it, you can leave the stems of the top in and chop them up finely as well. If you want, you can also finely chop up the bottom stems if you don’t mind that they are thicker. Then, add your chopped cilantro to your dish or blend it up for making a sauce.

    How Long Does Cilantro Stay Good?

    Freshly picked cilantro will last for about seven to 10 days in the fridge when properly stored. It is a perishable herb, so it will only last for a few hours at room temperature once you pick it.

    It is important to properly store cilantro in order to ensure that it will stay fresh for as long as possible. To do so, start out by removing the rubber band that holds the herb together.

    Then,  fill a glass with an inch of water and then place your cilantro into it. You will also want to lightly cover it with a plastic bag in order to maintain freshness. You can also store your cilantro in a produce bag in your crisper drawer.

    Like all fruits, vegetables, and herbs, you will want to wash them before using them. However, too much moisture can cause it to go bad quickly, so be sure to wait until you are ready to use your cilantro to wash it.

    How To Tell If Your Cilantro Is Bad

    Cilantro that is soft and discolored is no longer good. In addition, if it has an off-smell or taste, you will want to disregard it. In addition, if there is any mold or it feels slimy, throw it out right away as it is not safe to eat.

    How To Grow Cilantro At Home

    If you want to grow cilantro, the best time to do it is in cool weather, such as early spring. You should plant it in loose soil that has good drainage and in a spot that has full sun. You can grow cilantro in planters or garden beds, just be sure there aren’t any taller plants taking away its sunlight.

    The seeds should be planted about one to two inches apart about 1/4 to 1/2 an inch deep in the soil. The soil should be moist, but not soggy, with around one inch of water a week being adequate. It strives in temperatures between 60-70 degrees.

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    Understing If You Do You Use Cilantro Stems

    Cilantro stems are edible and they are great for adding it your favorite dishes. In fact, they are full of flavor and provide a great crunch to different dishes. When chopping up the leaves, you can chop up the stems as well to use.

    Unlike other herbs, the stems are just as flavorful as the leaves are. There is no need to throw out the stems as they are perfectly good to use. However, some people may choose to leave out the bottom of the stems because they are thicker and woodier.

    Do you have any questions regarding do you use cilantro stems? If so, please ask any questions on using the stems in cooking in the comment section down below.

  • Can You Eat a Tomato With Seeds Sprouting Inside

    Can You Eat a Tomato With Seeds Sprouting Inside

    In this article, we will discuss and answer the question: Can you eat a tomato with seeds sprouting inside to get to know the truth?

    Have you ever sliced into a beautiful red tomato to find the seeds already sprouting? When the seeds sprout, they look like small,  green, or white wiggly things. Check keenly to be sure these are not worms but sprouting seeds inside the tomato.

    It is common to see tomato seeds sprout inside tomato fruit. This happens because of a lack of hormonal acid. This hormonal acid is what keeps the tomato dormant until the time is right for them to sprout.  The seeds are more likely to grow if the tomato has been exposed to prolonged cold for a few days and then moved to heat. Temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit are too cold for harvested tomatoes.

    So, Where Do These Sprouting Seeds Come From

    Seeds germinating inside the tomato is a process known as vivipary. This process occurs in overripe fruit where seeds have reached maturity, and the ABA abscisic acid’s natural hormone is reduced. In this case, the seed dormancy is lost gradually.

    The tomato fruit allows the vivipary process since the seeds do not dry out in a moist environment inside the fruit.

    So, Where Do These Sprouting Seeds Come From

    Some causes of seeds sprouting inside the fruit are due to long storage in cool temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It could also be because the tomato fruit is overripe, has potassium deficiency, or over-fertilization with nitrogen fertilizer.

    However, it is customary to see ripe summer tomatoes begin to sprout their seeds while still whole.

    Can You Eat A Tomato With Seeds Sprouting Inside?

    Yes, you can eat a tomato with seeds sprouting inside. The main reason why the seeds sprout inside the tomato is due to over-ripening.

    Tomatoes that have started to germinate the seeds can have a not-so-sweet taste. However, this is a disputed theory as some people find it tasty while others find it bland.

    All sprouted tomatoes are safe to eat unless you notice other things like fuzz, spots, or squishy tissues. Please note that if a pathogen has infected the tomato, you cannot eat it.

    Some people have gotten ill by eating the sprouted tomatoes overripe; therefore, exercise caution when feeding on these tomatoes. The best use you can put to an overripe tomato is to plant it and allow it to grow.

    Why Do Tomatoes Seeds Sprout?

    As fruits ripen, they develop an abscisic hormone that causes the fruit to develop until it becomes overripe. Once it’s degraded, the release of abscisic acid diminishes because the fruit has reached its peak in ripening.

    The seeds in the fruit change from dormancy to active state. As they become active, they begin germinating, known as vivipary. The vivipary escapes from the seed seeking a moist environment of the tomato for sustenance.

    Vivipary means live birth. Even if you don’t cut open the tomato, the sprouts will make their way out of the fruit through the skin.

    Read more about Can You Eat Carrots That Have Sprouted?

    How To Prevent Seeds Sprouting Inside Tomatoes

    After you harvest or buy your tomatoes, it is essential to store them at room temperature and prevent sunlight from accessing them.  However, allow sufficient air circulation to help them ripen and stay healthy.

    To prevent sprouting, keep your tomatoes in a cool, dry place instead of a warm area but do not refrigerate them.

    When you harvest or buy your tomatoes, use them as soon and as fast as possible.  Allowing your tomatoes to age is giving them a chance to sprout. If you do not intend to cook or eat them soon enough, you could turn them into a tomato paste, or sauce or use them in pizza.

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    Some Reasons To Eat Tomatoes Regularly

    Tomatoes are suitable for the body, and it is essential to eat them as often as possible. Here are some reasons why we should adopt them:

      • Tomatoes have multiple varieties of antioxidants that protect your eyes, heart, and skin. They also have potassium vitamins B, K, and E, and folate.

      • Tomatoes have an antioxidant known as lycopene that protects your cells from free radicals keeping you safe from stomach, lung, or prostate cancer. Lycopene also lowers your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, protecting you from strokes.

      • These fruits have vitamin K which is crucial for bone health and the healing of wounds. It helps in blood clotting in case of an injury and speeds up the healing process.

      • Lycopene also benefits your oral health by strengthening the gums and protecting you from gingivitis and periodontitis.

      • Tomatoes contain the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which do wonders for your eyes, protecting them from macular damage and blue light.

      • They have high fiber that prevents constipation, lowers cholesterol, and manages diabetes.

    How To Prevent Tomato Seeds From Sprouting While Inside The Tomato

    There are a few steps you can take to prevent your tomatoes from sprouting while still whole.  They include:

      • Grow Your Tomatoes and Remember to Harvest Them on Time.  Growing your tomatoes ensures that you provide them with the right nutrients to get you healthy tomatoes. Ensure that you also harvest them before the cold weather sets in.  This will keep the tomato seeds from being tricked by the weather into dormancy. The seeds inside the tomatoes tend to sprout when tricked into dormancy.

    • Grow Your Own Tomatoes and Remember to Harvest Them on Time 

      • Buy Your Tomatoes From a Farmer’s Market. If you cannot grow your own tomatoes, then buy from a local farmer’s market. Some gardeners who use hydroponic systems produce tomatoes all the time. Indoor farmer’s markets may also surprise you with their produce.

    How Many Days Do Tomato Seeds Take to Germinate?

    Tomatoes grow pretty fast. Their seed can sprout within 10 days under the right conditions. You should keep your tomatoes seed at a warm temperature to ensure they sprout. Spray them with water twice a day to keep them moisturized. Once you see the seeds sprouting, move them to bright light.

    What Temperature is Needed to Germinate Tomato Seeds?

    Tomato seeds don’t need sunlight to germinate, but they do need warmth. Your seeds will germinate in temperatures around 65°F to 85°F. Ideally, a temperature of 104°F should be reached.

    Will Refrigerated Tomato Seeds Germinate?

    Tomato seeds won’t germinate if they’re kept in the fridge. In there, they won’t receive any warmth or moisture.

    If it’ll be a while before you germinate your seeds, I suggest keeping them in the fridge. Many seeds stored in a refrigerator tend to show higher germination rates.

    Once you’re ready to germinate your refrigerated tomato seeds, leave them at room temperature to warm up. You can then continue germinating them as you would normally.

    Will Tomato Seeds Sprout in Water?

    Tomato seeds will not sprout in water. They need warmth to germinate. However, soaking the seed in water for a few days before you start the germination process, helps. Tomato seeds have hard outer shells. Soaking these in water softens them. Your tomatoes will germinate easier.

    How Long Does it Take for Tomato Seeds to Sprout Indoors?

    You can get your tomato seed to sprout faster by germinating them indoors. Tomato seeds kept indoors sprout in about 5 or 6 days under ideal conditions.

    You should keep their soil warm and spray them with water. If you’d like your seeds to germinate healthily, keep them moist and transfer them to sunlight once they break the surface. You can also use a grow light.

    Can You Grow Tomatoes From The Seeds of Canned Tomatoes?

    Tomato seeds from canned tomatoes won’t germinate. During the canning process, tomatoes are cooked at extremely high temperatures. This process damages the seeds.

    How Long Will a Tomato Last in The Fridge?

    After your tomato seeds germinate successfully, you can plant them. If you take good care of your tomato plants, they’ll produce a large harvest. Once your tomatoes are ripe, you can enjoy them on the go or keep them in the fridge.

    Ripe tomatoes will last in a refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also preserve them in various ways to ensure none of your harvests goes to waste.

    Tomato sauce made with oil and garlic can stay fresh in a tightly sealed container for about 6 months when placed in the fridge. You can dehydrate your tomatoes and leave them as is or reduce them to powder. Both versions can be stored in your refrigerator to keep them fresher for longer.

    If you want to preserve your tomatoes even longer, freezing them is a better choice. Tomatoes will last up to a year in a fridge with freezing temperatures.

    Conclusion

    Once you’ve harvested your tomatoes from your garden, learn how to store them correctly.  Place the tomatoes on a counter or a window seal out of direct sunlight. Keep them at room temperature and don’t stack them up or put them in a plastic bag. This way, you will not have rotten or sprouting tomatoes.

    According to the USDA, this storage method will help them write and develop good flavor and aroma. Then you will have ripe tomatoes that are ready to eat without their seeds germinating.

    Also, to prevent vivipary in tomatoes, fertilize your plant’s orphan when growing with recommended ratios of N, P, and K. The problem does not occur after the fruits mature.