Category: Plants

How Long Is Squash Germination Time?

It is essential to know squash germination time before you plant any of the varieties so that you are ready in time for germination.

Squash is a very versatile plant to grow and comes with many different options for the home garden. Squash is an easy plant to grow with high yields and comes in many different varieties. They are available in all sorts of shapes, patterns, and sizes that fall into different categories.

Summer Squash Versus Winter Squash

Winter squash is harvested at the end of the growing season to enjoy over the winter months. They include butternut squash, myriad of pumpkins, and spaghetti squash.

Summer squash is harvested throughout summer and includes examples like crookneck squash, zucchini, and pattypan.

Squash plants are available as bushy or trailing plants. Trailing squash should be left to sprawl over the soil surface or support the trellis or wire mesh. To encourage massive pumpkins, it’s best to leave the stems sprawl on the ground. This way, they will be able to send extra roots as they spread to take up even more valuable nutrients and moisture from the soil.

What Is Squash Germination Time?

Germinating squash seeds takes between 7 to 10 days if the weather is warm enough.

Start your summer squash seeds indoors at least 3 to 4 weeks before your last frost date. If you are sowing the seeds directly outdoors, you will need to wait until the soil temperature has warmed up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the soil is still too cold, you can protect the seeds or transplants by adding row covers to help keep the soil warm.

With the right soil temperature, sow the seeds at least 1/2 to 1 inch deep, spacing them between 12 to 18 inches apart. This spacing gives the squash plants enough area to thrive.

Once your seedlings are ready for transplanting, ensure that the last frost date is passed at least 2 to 3 weeks.

Growing Squash After Germination Time

With sprouting squash seeds successful, it’s time to thin them to at least 36 inches apart in all directions. Be sure to keep the soil moisture levels high to allow enough intake of water and nutrients. Summer squash prefers soils with a ph of 5.5 to 6.8 and a good amount of full sun.

Common pests that affect the summer squash include cucumber beetles, aphids, slugs, flea beetles, and snails. To protect your summer squash from the above problems, ensure that you do not plant them in areas where melons or cucumbers have recently grown. Squash is not a good plant to grow in containers as it does not have enough space to spread out.

Where To Grow Squash

Squash prefers a warm sunny, sheltered spot with ideal conditions for good pollination and perfect for fruit development.

These plants are hungry feeders and require rich fertile soil; you can improve it by including well-rotted compost or old manure. Fill each hole with a mixture of soil and compost manure topping up with a handful of organic fertilizer. This can be done at least 2 weeks before sowing the seeds or planting.

Harvesting Squash

Harvest your summer squash as soon as they attend the size that you want. However, besides the size, it is good to allow them to mature long enough for harvest. Summer squash varieties are harvested every day so that they don’t overgrown. Winter squash and pumpkins are harvested in the fall before the first date of frost.

To harvest the winter squash, cut either side of the stem to leave a T-shaped stub. Don’t carry your pumpkin by holding the stem as it could detach from the fruit and serve as an entry point for bacterial rot. Move your pumpkin fruits to a warm, dry, and sunny spot to cure.

If the weather has already turned cold and damp outside, cure your fruits in a greenhouse or next to a sunny windowsill. Curing hardens the skin in readiness for long-term storage. Winter squash and pumpkins can store for up to 6 months at room temperature.

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12/21/2025 11:03 am GMT

FAQs

What’s the best way to start squash seeds?

Squash is usually a very easy plant to grow from seed, and they can be started in pots or directly in the garden. They like to have some shade during the hottest part of the day, so they may need to be moved to a partially shaded spot after the first few days. I would recommend starting them out in a pot, and then transplanting into your garden when they are large enough to handle it.

How long does squash take to germinate?

Squash seeds start to germinate in about 5 days, and then you need to wait for a few more days for the sprouts to grow. The sprouts will take about two weeks to get to be ready to transplant to your garden. Then you can expect about one or two months before they mature enough to harvest. This is a rough guide, but I’ve grown squash for years with no issues.

Squash seeds need light to germinate. When they do germinate, they will grow about as fast as any other vegetable or fruit. If you have room in your garden, I would recommend growing squash from seed, since it is easy to transplant them when they are small. Squash can be direct-seeded into the garden, but most people plant them in a seedling bed.

Why won’t my squash seeds germinate?

The problem might be that the seeds are old or damaged. They could also be planted in the wrong medium, or the conditions aren’t right. If they’re too old, they’re not going to do much of anything; if they’re damaged, they’ll never sprout.

Should I soak squash seeds?

Squash seeds are usually sold in stores or online, but they can be easily grown at home. However, there is one thing that you should consider before buying seeds: they should be soaked for 8 hours or overnight.

If you soak seeds for more than 24 hours, then it is impossible to germinate them.

Can you plant squash seeds right out of the squash?

Squash seeds can be planted directly in the ground after the vines are harvested, but you’ll need to get the seeds into the ground as soon as possible. The best time to do this is when the soil is warm and moist. If you plant the seeds in the fall, you can let them overwinter in a cold frame or greenhouse. Once spring arrives, cover the seeds with an inch of potting soil and water well.

What’s a great squash for kids to learn to grow?

Summer squash is a great vegetable for kids, and can be grown in the summer months when you don’t have access to a garden. These delicious and nutritious vegetables are known for their ability to grow large, long, and strong. They’re also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.

What time of the year should I grow squash?

We grow both summer and winter squashes indoors during the fall months and transplant into the garden when temperatures are in the 50’s. The plants do not tolerate frost and you don’t want to plant anything out until the ground has warmed up.

Tips To Growing Summer Squash

Plant Your Squash Seeds Directly In The Garden

Summer squash varieties are best grown by sowing seeds directly on the ground. This way, the squash sprouts are more robust and do not need to be disturbed when moving to another place. If you live within the Arizona area, take advantage of the monsoon moisture by planting in mid-February through the beginning of April and again from mid-August to the beginning of September. Always check the local planting guides for your date; they will always be after your last frost date. Remember, squash prefers warm soil.

Most summer squash varieties take between 45 to 60 days from planting to harvest. If starting seeds indoors, do so at least 5 to 6 weeks before the last day of frost in the spring.

Plant Several Types Of Summer Squash

To use the summer season, plant several types of summer squash that range from light to dark green, yellow, striped, solid, round, long, or disc-shaped. Although they are similar, they have some differences in flavor texture and uses. For example, a party pan squash has Stafford texture and cooks better in soups and stews. Zucchini is medium-textured and Lebanese squash has a more tender texture. The 30 summer squash varieties have different textures and different uses.

Attract As Many Bees As Possible

Planting summer squash varieties are a sure way to attract the beneficial bees as they pollinate and transfer pollen from the male and female plants. The bees are valuable not just for squash but also for other plans that you will grow in your garden.

Check Your Summer Squash Plants Daily

Squash plants are susceptible to pests and diseases and especially during the summer. Daily vigilance prevents minor problems from getting out of hand. For example, check for powdery mildew on the leaves. If you notice any is present, pick the leaves and dispose of them away from your compost. Use baking soda solution sulphur spray or milk solution to prevent and treat powdery mildew. You can also spray with neem oil. Check the undersides of leaves for squash bug eggs and remove both the eggs and the adults by hand.

Harvest Your Summer Squash Early And Often

Due to the summer heat, the squash family tends to mature fast and quickly. Therefore, it is vital to check them often and harvest them as early as you can to avoid overgrowing.

Squash grows quickly. One day, you notice a small one; most probably, it’s ready for harvest the next day. They taste better when tender and young, the more reason you should harvest them early. Harvest squash by cutting through the stem instead of the main vine with a sharp knife when fruits are about 4 to 6 inches long. When they are overgrown, the seeds and skin tend to grow tougher and larger, making them unattractive to eat.

Picking the fruit often encourages more production. Whatever you cannot consume, store it in the refrigerator for about a week or freeze it for an extended period.

Find more information about Will A Pumpkin Ripen Off The Vine?
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.

November 30, 2021
Are Cherry Tomatoes The Same As Grape Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a versatile fruit and are popular among gardeners of all experience levels. However, you may wonder are cherry tomatoes the same as grape tomatoes? Though the two varieties of tomatoes are similar, they do have their differences.

From sauces to sandwiches and everything in-between, tomatoes are a popular ingredient in many dishes. Though culinary wise they are referred to as a vegetable, they are actually botanically a fruit. They come in many different varieties and are all delicious and full of health benefits.

Brief History Of Tomatoes

The origins of tomatoes trace back to the Aztecas in around 700 AD, which leads many to believe that they are native to South America. Around the 16th century, the tomato was introduced to Europe after explorers brought them back from the New World. They quickly grew in popularity across Southern Europe.

The Spanish and Italians were the first to adapt tomatoes into their cuisine. The tomato was then introduced to North America by the Europeans. It wasn’t until around the early 20th century that they became popular all across the country.

Now, tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables in the culinary world. They are grown commercially all across the world and many people also grow them in their home gardens. You can find them in all sorts of different varieties, shapes, sizes, and colors.

What’s The Difference Between Cherry And Grape Tomatoes?

So, are grape tomatoes the same as cherry tomatoes? Though they are similar, cherry and grape tomatoes are different.

Cherry tomatoes get their names since they are shaped like cherries. They are round with thin skins and a high water content. They are generally softer than grape tomatoes and tend to be squisher as well.

Cherry tomatoes will often pop and squirt juices in your mouth as you bite down. They can grow to be almost twice as big as grape tomatoes.

Grape tomatoes have an oblong, oval shape that is similar to that of a grape. They have a thicker, meatier, and chewier consistency than cherry tomatoes do. Their flesh has less water, making them not as juicy as cherry tomatoes are.

They often grow in clusters, just like grapes do. In addition, they also tend to have a longer shelf life as well. Both varieties are great for growing in your own garden and will typically grow in an abundance.

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Flavor Profile And Colors

Cherry tomatoes tend to be sweet in flavor, though some can be a bit tart. Though they are often red in color, they can also be orange or yellow. They are popular for having a crisp bite and fresh flavor.

Grape tomatoes have a rich taste and they aren’t too sweet or too acidic, though they can be a bit tart. They have a crunchy bite and meaty consistency. In addition, they are also often red, though they can be yellow or orange as well.

Common Uses

Cherry tomatoes are great for sauces, salads, kebabs, and roasting. In addition, they are also great for stuffing. Grape tomatoes are ideal for salads, sauces, roasting, and grilling. You can eat both types raw or cooked.

Like all fruits and vegetables, you should wash your tomatoes before you eat them. For best results, wait to wash them until right before you use them.

Can You Use Them Interchangeably?

For the most part, you can use cherry and grape tomatoes interchangeably in your recipes. Some people prefer one variety over the other, but they will often both work well in recipes that call for one or the other. If you are wanting to stuff your tomatoes, cherry is the better option.

Proper Storage

Tomatoes do best when you store them at room temperature, in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Since they are fragile, it is best to store them in a paper bag or a Tupperware container. They will last for about one week at room temperature with proper storage.

You can also store fully ripe tomatoes in the fridge for up to two weeks. Keep them at a warmer spot in the fridge such as the top shelf or door. Remove any stems before placing them in the fridge and store them stem side down.

Any leftover tomatoes that are already cut should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container. They will last for around 3-4 days after you cut them in the fridge.

You can also freeze tomatoes as well if you have an abundance from your garden. To freeze, wash them and thoroughly dry them off and then add them to a Ziploc bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag or use a vacuum sealer if you have one of those.

Place your tomatoes in a single layer in your freezer to prevent them from getting squished. They will keep for around nine months to a year in your freezer.

You can also freeze them in slices as well. Simply slice them into pieces and place them on a baking tray. Then, place the tray with the slices on it in the freezer for one hour. After the hour, wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a Ziploc bag before returning them to the freezer.

When ready to serve or cook, allow them to thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes. You can also thaw them whole or slice them in the fridge overnight as well.

FAQ’s

Whats the difference between cherry and grape tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a very diverse group of plants, with many different types, colors, shapes, sizes, flavors, and uses. The most common varieties are beefsteak, plum, cherry, and grape tomatoes.

“Grape” tomatoes are similar flavor and texture to regular cherry tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes are larger, with thicker skins and smaller seeds. “Cherry” tomatoes are a type of plum tomato. The skin is thick and shiny, and they have a bright red color. They have a higher sugar content than other tomatoes, but less acidity. They are typically picked at the green stage, then ripened at home in a paper bag on a countertop or in the refrigerator.

Cherry tomatoes are small, sweet, juicy tomatoes that are perfect for snacking and salads. They have a thin skin that is easy to peel off, making them great for eating raw in salads or as part of sandwiches. Grape tomatoes are larger than cherry tomatoes.

As a general rule, if you can fit your thumb in the hole of the tomato, it is cherry.

Are grape tomatoes better than cherry tomatoes?

If you’re looking for the most flavorful and juicy tomato, then you’ll want to go with the grape variety. Grape tomatoes are a small round tomato with sweet flesh that is often sold in a cluster of several together. They have a mild flavor and are ideal for salads. In addition, they can be eaten raw or cooked. Cherry tomatoes are larger than grape tomatoes, but they also have sweet flesh.

In addition to being delicious, these varieties of tomatoes are also very good for you. They contain lots of lycopene, which has been proven to help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Lycopene is also believed to protect against heart disease and other ailments.

They are cheap, easy to find, and easy to eat. I can eat them raw or in salads. They are good for cooking too, because they stay nice and firm. I like their texture and flavor. Grape tomatoes are more expensive.

You can only get them out of season. The ones that grow in the winter are small and bland.

Can you substitute cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes?

Yes, you can use any kind of cherry tomatoes in place of grape tomatoes. They are very similar in flavor and size, but if you prefer a different tomato flavor you can certainly use them.

Why are cherry tomatoes so expensive?

One reason is that they’re a speciality crop, requiring lots of effort to grow. Another reason is that the plants have been bred to be especially sweet and juicy.

Can you freeze grape tomatoes?

Grape tomatoes can be frozen, but they should be placed in an airtight container or bag and frozen individually. If they are frozen together, the flavor is likely to be ruined.

How many types of cherry tomatoes are there?

There are many types of cherry tomatoes, but only a few types are widely available. For example, the small cherry tomatoes sold in plastic bags at supermarkets are typically Roma (or “Romano”) tomatoes; these have thick skins that are tough enough to withstand shipping and storage without spoiling. Most cherry tomatoes sold fresh at farmers’ markets or grocery stores are called “summer” cherry tomatoes because they are picked before they have started to turn red.

Understanding The Differences Between Grape Vs Cherry Tomatoes

Grape and cherry tomatoes are very similar, however, cherry tomatoes are round and grape tomatoes are oblong and oval. The cherry variety tends to be juicer and sweeter, whereas the grape variety tends to be meatier and chewier. The cherry variety tends to be larger than the grape variety.

Both varieties are great for salads, sauces, roasting, snacking, and grilling. Oftentimes, these two varieties can be used interchangeably with each other as both have a wonderful flavor. They are typically red, orange, or yellow in color, with red being the most common.

Do you have any questions regarding to are cherry tomatoes the same as grape tomatoes? If so, please ask any questions regarding tomatoes in the comment section down below.
Anna
Anna is an avid gardener who loves the outdoors and spending time in nature. She has been gardening since she was a child and has a passion for growing her own food and flowers. She enjoys experimenting with different types of plants and techniques to create beautiful and bountiful gardens. She is always trying to learn more about gardening and is an active member of her local gardening club. She loves to share her knowledge and experience with others and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Anna believes that gardening is a great way to bring people together and foster a sense of community.

November 30, 2021
Is There A Flower That Looks Like An Artichoke?
Did you know there’s a flower that looks like an artichoke, and it is mainly confused by gardeners who think it is the same plant?

The cardoon or Cynara cardunculus is a close relative to the artichoke or Cynara scolymus. Both of these plants are members of the Asteraceae family, also called the daisy family. This includes sunflowers, echinaceas, and chrysanthemums.

The cardoon looks a lot like a cross between an artichoke and a thistle. It produces beautiful thistle-like flowers but does not produce fruit like artichoke. Instead, it has celery-like stalks that are considered a tasty delicacy, either cooked or eaten fresh.

The cardoon is a beautiful ornamental tropical-looking plant often grown as an architectural plant among the dahlias and verbenas. Its large silver leaves and sculpture-like shape fits nicely as a seasonal accent feature in mixed borders.

A Flower That Looks Like An Artichoke – The Physical Differences

Both cardoons and artichokes are widely cultivated in the USDA plant hardiness zones 7 to 9. They are grown both for their ornamental features and edible parts. They both possess violet thistle-like flowers and silver foliage.

Artichokes produce large flower buds with a more globular shape tighter and less pronounced spines. In contrast, small sharp spines cover the cardoon stalks and could cause severe pain if they prick your skin. It is therefore essential to wear gloves when handling stems or flowers of the cardoons.

Cardoons have less tidy growth habits than artichokes, although both plants grow to roughly 3 to 5 feet in height.

Cardoon’s History

Cardoon is native to the Mediterranean region and was treasured in Greek-Roman and Persian cuisines. This plant remained popular and most common in American colonial gardens during the mediaeval and early modern European times.

Although it lost its popularity in the 19th century, its reputation as original favourite in Spain, France, and Italy continues to grow. These countries produce about 100 metric tons of cardoons annually. The acclaimed iron chef Mario Batali uses the cardoon as one of his favourite vegetables.

The reputation of this leafy vegetable is beginning to grow in America.

Cardoon’s Modern Growth And Uses

The cardoon is a tender perennial plant that looks like a cross between celery and burdock and carries a flavour close to the artichoke.

Use the leaves and stems steamed or braised in soups or fried. This plant is loaded with vitamins B and C and iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

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The cardoon adapts well to the Redlands dry Mediterranean like climate. It prefers at least 6 hours of sun each day but tolerates partial shade. When growing yet treated the same way you would treat an artichoke.

Plant your cardoon in rich, well-drained soil and use fertilizer for better yields. Provide adequate water allowing it to dry in between waterings. The plant will grow to about 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide; therefore, it is not suitable to grow it in containers. The cardoon has no serious disease problems except aphids that love to feast on it.

Edible Parts Of The Flower That Looks Like Artichokes

Cardoons and artichokes have a similar nutty flavour due to the close relationship even though you eat different parts of their plants.

For artichokes, consume the large overdeveloped flower buds both the fleshy heart and the petals. Cardoons have soft young leaves, immature flower stalks that you can enjoy raw or cooked.

Like celery or rhubarb, cardoon stalks taste best when blanched in the garden before harvesting. Wrap the bottom part of the plant to keep the sunlight out. The stems are popularly battered or fried.

You can boil the main root eat it cold. This plant is also used to flavour liquor and incorporated into cheese production. It is also used for cooking oils as a source of biodiesel fuel and feedstock.

You can use this plant as a medicinal plant; some say it has mild laxative qualities. It also contains cynarin that has cholesterol-lowering effects, although it cannot exceed the artichokes cynarin component.

Cardoon Planting

Start the seeds indoors in the late winter or early spring. After the danger of frost passes, transplant the seedlings outside. You can also plant from the divided cardoon plants in early spring, leaving plenty of space for growth.

Cartoons can grow nutritional processes, but they prefer deep rich soils and full sun. Cardoon seeds are available for around 7 years after ripening, starting from September to October.

Harvesting The Artichoke Looking Flower

Cardoons are much larger and harder than artichokes. Some people eat the tender flower buds while others at the fleshy, thick leaf stalks that require plentiful irrigation for healthy growth.

Before harvesting cardoon leaf stalks, you will need to blanch them first. Do this by tying the plant into a bundle, wrapping it with straw, mounding the soil and leaving them for one month.

Cardoon plants harvested for culinary purposes are treated as annuals and harvested during the winter months in areas where there are mild winters from November to February. They are then sowed afresh in early spring.

You can eat the tender leaves and stocks fresh in salads and the branched portions used like celery in stews and soups.

When harvesting, use gardening gloves as the cardoon stem has small, almost invisible spines that can be dangerous. However, there are spineless varieties available for the home gardener.

Other Flowers That Look Like Artichokes

Artichoke flowers are flowers that look like artichokes. Specifically, the flowers of an actual artichoke plant (Cynara scolymus). These flowers came up during spring/summer in dry weather conditions and could be considered very pretty flowers. It’s said there were many varieties of these flowers, each with varying flowers and colours.

List of flowers that look like artichoke flowers:
- Rabbit Ears (Camelina sativa)
- Wild Chamomile (Matricaria discoidea)
- Field Mustard (Brassica rapa)
- Wild Fennel (Nigella arvensis)
- Annual Wormwood (Artemisia annua)
This list isn’t exhaustive and more flowers could look like artichoke flowers.

Conclusion

Though the cardoon is a flower that looks like an artichoke, it does not continuously bloom in colder climates. this is because the growing season is not long enough for blooming to happen.

Its violet-purple flowers, set in a heavily spined head, are about 2 inches in diameter. Bees and other pollinators love these flowers. Left alone under the right conditions, this plant can succeed and become invasive in mild climates.

Why not try and grow your cardoons -the flower that looks like artichoke and see how it does. Please share your cardoon growing journey with us. It will inspire all of us gardeners in our gardening journey.

Or have you already started out on some cardoon plants, let us know your experience.
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.
November 30, 2021
A Guide On Planting Carrots In The Fall
Is planting carrots in the fall possible? Yes, it is, but it depends on where you grow your carrots or where you live.

Gardeners in the south have the advantage of sowing carrots in the fall for winter harvest. Northern gardeners always start their carrots planting in midsummer to harvest them in the fall and early winter.

The beauty of growing carrots is that many planting and harvesting windows keep these nutritious roots on our plates throughout the year.

Orange carrots are the most common carrots, but you can try planting yellow, white, crimson, or even purple ones. Besides the carrot color, choosing the right size and shape that suits your soil is critical. Carrots’ size and shape vary by type – ball type Danvers and chantey carrots have a blocky shape that handles heavy or shallow soil. In comparison, slender types like imperator and Nantes carrots require deep loose soil.

Let’s Look At Planting Carrots In The Fall

With the calendar turning to September most gardeners, begin to think of wrapping up the gardening season. However, there is still time to plant several vegetables that can withstand the cold season for the southern gardeners.

Northern gardeners are limited to planting radishes, spinach, lettuce, and arugula in September, while southern and Western gardeners have the luxury of growing a wider variety of vegetables.

Carrots and peas are the two common crops that are planted in warmer areas for fall harvest. Both crops mature in a few months after planting and tolerate a light frost thriving during the cold. Both crops can be harvested while still immature to yield some tasty vegetables in case the temperatures dip earlier than expected.

If you live in a mild winter climate, you can also try overwintering some carrots or peas planted in the fall for harvest in the following spring.

Carrot Varieties For Planting In The Fall

Choose a variety that grows quickly to ensure they are mature before the days grow too short and the temperatures become too cold. Here are some excellent carrot varieties to try:
- Merida – This type produces a 7-inch long Nantes-type carrot. It can be planted in the fall for spring harvest, as it is slow to get bitter in spring.
- Primo – This is a Nantes type of carrot that matures within 60 days from seeding. It colors up early, providing a good harvest is baby carrots.
- Red Cored Chantenay – This type matures in 68 days after seeding, producing 6-inch long blocky carrots. This type is adaptable to many soil types.
- Little Finger – This type produces 3 to 4-inch long carrots that color up quickly and mature only after 65 days.
When To Plant Fall Carrots

The best time to plant carrots in the fall is September in raised beds if you live in the South and West areas. Prepare the bed by removing previous crops and weeds, loosening the soil, and adding at least half an inch thick layer of compost. Work the compost into the ground.

Once the soil is ready, sprinkle the carrot seed on top of the smooth seedbed and cover it with a quarter-inch layer of soil. Because the weather is still warm in September, shade the planting bed using a shade cloth during the 90-degree days and keep the soil evenly moist. If the soil dries out or the weather becomes too hot, the seeds won’t germinate. Water them well and leave them to grow.

Once the carrots have germinated and the tops have grown a few inches tall, the carrots are at least 2 inches apart. 3 weeks later, then again to 3 or 4 inches apart. Fertilize after the first thinning with a quick-acting fertilizer like the 5-10-10. Avoid using high-level nitrogen fertilizers or fresh manure.

You can start harvesting your carrots as soon as they show color. To overwinter them, bulge with a 6 to 8-inch thick layer of hay or straw before the ground freezes. When ready to harvest, pull the straw back to clear the way for harvesting.

When Should Southern Gardeners Sow Their Carrots?

After the hot summer has passed and the fall begins, it is time for Southern gardeners to prepare their gardens and plant carrot seeds. Southern gardeners with a warm or mild winter can sow carrot seed in the early fall, that is, September. If they sow in September, they can harvest throughout the winter and into

Carrots can reliably be sown outside in the fall without protection from the weather patterns. Gardeners across South Carolina, Florida, and Sacramento can grow fall carrots with ease.

If you’re not sure about the region you are leaving and growing carrots in the fall, you can check your weather forecast for advice for gardening.

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Carrot Planting Tips For Southern Gardeners

It is possible to sow your carrot seed throughout the fall and winter if you live in the Deep South. You can aim to harvest carrots in the most excellent parts of the winter as they will have the sweetest flavor at this time.

Gardeners in the upper South cancel carrots from late August into September. They are planting window is a bit shorter compared to the deep South. However, they have cooler winter temperatures that make their carrots super sweet.

The best way to store mature carrots is to leave them in the ground and harvest them only when needed. This is great for cold and mild weather. However, if your climate is seriously warming up and you’re expecting hotter days ahead, it is best to pull your mature carrots and store them in the root cellar or any other cool, dark and dry place in your house. Scorching weather makes your roots beta and causes the plants to bolt.

Consider putting a shade cloth on the carrot bed until the plants become established; this will help to conserve moisture and cool the soil temperature until the winter weather sets in.

Find more information about Carrots Planting Spacing – What You Should Know

When Should Northern Gardeners Grow Their Carrots?

Northern gardeners should plant carrot seeds in mid-to-late summer to get a fall or winter harvest.

Over the past many years, the northern governors have perfected extending their current season resulting in a bountiful harvest in early winter.

How Many Carrot Seeds Should You Plant?

There are different methods of sowing carrot seeds that can be used. When planting carrot seeds in the soil in neat rows with carefully made holes, it is okay to put one seed per hole if you trust that your seeds are viable or are fairly new seeds. If your seeds are a bit old and/or you are unsure of their viability, you may put multiple seeds in a single hole to give yourself some guarantee. If multiple seedlings come up, you can always separate them so you have nothing to lose by doing this.

Another way of sowing carrot seeds is to scatter them lightly across a wide surface area of soil. Just make sure that they have sufficient space to grow well, and if they grow in clumps thin them out and event space them otherwise they will not grow to maturity.

Both these sowing methods have been used with success over the years. Choose the one that you think will be best for you, or try both methods in two different areas and see which one works better.

How Deep Should The Soil Be to Grow Carrots?

Generally, carrots require deep, loose soil to grow well. If the soil is a bit hard, the root will not grow well and may get stunted or twisted which is not ideal.

The depth in that you should dig the soil for growing carrots depends on the variety of carrots that you are going to plant. Different carrot varieties have different maximum lengths that they will grow to.

Dig or till the soil deeply to give your carrots the best growth chance. For varieties that have long roots, you will have to dig the soil to depths of between 12 and 16 inches. Otherwise select varieties with shorter roots that will not need much depth.

When to Plant Carrots in Zone 11?

Zone 11 is one of the warmest hardiness zones, and gets no frost throughout the year. Carrot seeds should be planted in the soil at least two to three weeks before the last spring day. The earlier you can plant carrots seedlings in Zone 11 is January, but if you don’t want to take any chances it is best to wait until February.

When Can I Plant Carrots in Zone 7?

In the USDA zone 7, plants such as carrots which prefer cooler temperatures are best planted outdoors in early February. This will give them enough time for the last spring frost days to pass before they germinate, otherwise, they would get frost damage and eventually die.

When Do You Plant Carrots in Pots?

Because pots are easy to move around and position in any area where you want them, you can plant carrots in pots at any time of the year. This is if you can provide them with the right growing conditions such as the right temperature, sufficient light (whether natural or artificial), have a good irrigation schedule, and provide them enough nutrients for growth.

Growing plants in pots work best if you have controlled indoor environments such as greenhouses.

How Much Sun Does a Carrot Plant Need?

Carrots prefer full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For the best growth and production of your carrot plants, you need to make sure they get between 8-10 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Conclusion

As we have seen, planting carrots in the fall as possible will require some techniques for you to show at the right time and harvest an excellent crop.

Find more information about A Guide On What Do Carrot Plants Look Like?
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.
November 29, 2021
Does Lettuce Grow Back After Harvesting?

Does lettuce grow back after you harvest the first leaves or the entire head of this fresh vegetable from your garden, or does it die back?

Nothing beats a salad made from a large handful of fresh lettuce harvested straight from the garden. The crunchiness and the fresh juices are to die for!

Most gardeners know that both loose leaf and head style lettuce plants reach full size then are pulled or cut at the roots to harvest the whole lettuce.

However, did you know growing lettuce lets you prolong the season by harvesting it leaf by leaf or using a technique called cut-and-come-again.

So, Does Lettuce Grow Back After Harvesting?

Yes, lettuce leaves will grow back after harvesting. However, this will happen only if proper care and technique are used when harvesting all the lettuce.

If you use the standard method of pulling or cutting a lettuce plant at the roots, you will not have it grow back. But, if you harvest leaf by leaf, you will leave the root to keep developing and producing more leaves.

Harvesting Lettuce For Regrowth

The cutting method works best while picking lettuce so that it keeps growing. This method may take a little practice depending on the variety of lettuce that you are growing. Trimming also works as long as it’s done correctly.

Trimming lettuce involves cutting the entire plant back to a height of about 1 to 2 inches using a sharp knife or scissors. However, it is recommended that you cut your lettuce early enough, so you attain a sweet harvest.

Early morning cutting helps the plant heal its wound before it is exposed to the sun. If the wounds are exposed to the sun, they run into the threat of scorching the open tissues preventing them from growing back.

The time of day for picking your lettuce can significantly affect the quality of lettuce leaves that you get. That’s why it’s wise to harvest your lettuce early in the morning.

How To Know When Lettuce Is Ready To Pick

Knowing when and how to harvest lettuce leaves goes a long way to ensure you make the most of your plants and garden space.

There are different types of lettuce leaves – red, green, heading, romaine, and stalk and over 100 varieties of lettuce that you can grow in your garden.

To determine the ripeness or readiness of lettuce, you mainly use your eyes and hands and check your calendar when you planted.

Lettuce is one of the few crops that thrive in partial shade but still need some sun. Iceberg lettuce does not form a head but instead includes loose leaves. This means that while the entire head of iceberg lettuce is to be harvested, picking loose-leaf lettuce means picking the leaves.

The leaf lettuce harvest can begin any time after the leaves have formed but before the seeds have formed.

What Is The Cut-And-Come-Again Method?

The cut-and-come-again method is the process where you cut the entire lettuce plant parallel to the ground approximately 1 inch from the soil and leave it to grow again. This method is more drastic but allows the latest plants to continue growing.

Once cut, the center of the lettuce will regenerate fast, and the plant will begin to form new leaves that grow to a big edible size. Ensure that you use clean tools to harvest this lettuce to avoid infecting or interfering with the plant.

How many times can you regrow lettuce? For the cut-and-come-again lettuce, you can harvest 2 or 3 times before the quality of the leaves gets poor. Romaine and butterhead lettuce varieties are cut 21 inches. The remaining stubs generate less vigorous but edible second growth.

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Lettuce Types For Leaf By Leaf Harvesting

Loose leaf or loosehead varieties are the best types of lettuce for leaf by leaf cutting. Other varieties like black seeded Simpson and red sails have broad ruffled leaves.

Lobed leaf varieties, commonly known as oak leaves, also have large loose clusters of leaves that make leaf harvesting easy.

Planting a loose-head variety in large pots helps you protect the pot, gathering leaves from your lettuce around the plant. You will notice that your lettuce plant may resemble a palm tree, but the leaves will remain sweet as long as the temperatures are below 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cutting And Timing Of Lettuce Leaves

Cutting methods work best when carefully timed. It takes a little practice from one variety to another to learn how to cut the leaves properly that won’t kill the plant.

When lettuce leaves are mature, they are crispy and start to look ready for cutting. Old leaves have a poor look and a bitter flavor, no matter how they are harvested.

The time of the day when you harvest your lettuce leaf will have a significant effect on them. If you harvest your leaves early in the morning, around 7 a.m., they contain twice the plant sugars of leaves harvested at 2 p.m., so to get a sweet harvest cut your lettuce leaves early in the morning.

Growing Back Lettuce From Mature Heads

Growing veggies in water from kitchen scraps have been a subject that has hit the internet with a bang. There are many articles and comments on this subject on the internet, and sure enough, many things can be regrown from kitchen scraps.

Lettuce is one of the vegetables that you can grow in water. Let’s find out how to do this.

This method works with any type of mature head or leaf lettuce. Most people say it works best with Roman hearts, but you can also try with red leaf, Boston leaf, and radicchio.

You can use this method with other members of the Brassicaceae family, including bok choy and cabbage.

To get started, slice the leaves from the stem leaving about 2 inches of the base intact. Remove all the leafy portions that you can without cutting into a stem of a plant. Leaving many leaves attached to the lettuce head may make it rot quickly.

Does Lettuce Regrow From Store-Bought Lettuce Head?

Yes, store-bought lettuce heads can regrow.

Re-growing lettuce in water is a super simple experiment. We call it an experiment because it is fun to do mainly with the young ones. Nevertheless, it will not get enough lettuce to make your daily salads.

This method will not give you enough lettuce because the lettuce plant is growing in water; therefore, it lacks enough nutrients to make a whole head of lettuce again since the water has no nutrients.

That said, it is still fun to try to regrow mature harvested heads using water and get some new leaves.

FAQs

Does lettuce grow back every year?

With head lettuce it will die back, but when you’re talking about leaf lettuce, you can trim it and it will grow back.

Lettuce is a biennial plant. The seed germinates in the spring, and then it grows vegetatively for a year before producing flowers and seeds the following year. The plants will not produce flowers until they are about a year old.

Leaves on perennials die down and then regrow. The seeds of annuals and perennials are dormant until the next year. In some cases, such as lettuce, the plant has a hard-to-see root system that grows out in the soil and re-grows.

How long does it take for lettuce to regrow?

ettuce regrows quickly after being harvested. Most lettuce will regrow within a couple of days, but some varieties need more time.

I don’t have a problem with regrowing lettuce, but I do have a problem with the time it takes to grow it.

How many times can you harvest lettuce?

The answer is two or three times if you do it right.

Lettuce is a cool-weather crop and will die back to the ground after being cut. The leaves will remain on the plant for several weeks, until the top of the plant dies back, and then the entire plant will dry out and die. Once it’s dead, you can pull the plant up by its roots and replant it in a new spot or leave it where it is.

How do you harvest lettuce so it keeps growing?

Harvesting lettuce is easy, but it takes practice to keep it fresh. When harvesting lettuce, be sure to cut the plant at the right time for the best flavor and texture. I just cut the whole head off, and it keeps coming back. That’s the whole point of growing lettuce.

Lettuce is a hardy vegetable that is available throughout the year, making it a versatile food. It’s easy to grow in a container or garden, and you can even grow it indoors.

If you want your lettuce to grow for weeks at a time, you need to plan ahead and prepare your soil properly.

How do you cut back lettuce?

To cut back lettuce, simply use a sharp knife and a firm hand to chop the leaves into smaller pieces. In addition to cutting the leaves, you can also remove the outer leaves of the head and use only the heart of the head, which is often the most tender part of the lettuce.

Final Thoughts

Lettuce can be harvested anytime when the leaves mature but ensure you do it before they overgrow and become bitter. Then you can enjoy watching your lettuce grow back and feed on it several times.
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.

November 29, 2021
Do You Know How Much Sun Does Cilantro Needs?

It is essential to know how much sun does cilantro needs before planting, so you choose the right spot where it will thrive.

Cilantro is easy to grow and requires its own space in the garden where you can allow it to increase for as long as it needs.

It thrives in the cool weather of spring and fall, creating a result of lacy leaves. When the weather warms up, the plants end up being long skinny flower stalks. These bear flower clusters of pink or white blossoms later produce coriander seeds.

You can also plant cilantro in a bed devoted to herbs where it can be reseeded without disturbance. Cilantro makes a good winter companion to pansies in mild climates because these leaves can withstand a light frost.

Cilantro Vs. Coriander

Cilantro has been used for many centuries in India, Mexico, Africa, Russia, Spain, China, and many countries of Asia, especially Thailand and the Middle East. It is thought to be native to the Middle East and North Africa. In addition, cilantro has many culinary uses; cilantro seeds are used medically, especially as a sleep and digestion aid.

Almost in the whole of North America, the stalks and leaves of the Coriandrum Sativum plant are known as cilantro, while the dried seeds are known as coriander. However, different parts of the world refer to this plant as coriander and its seeds.

How Much Sunlight Does Cilantro Need?

Cilantro prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil that contains more organic material than synthetic fertilizers. Working several inches deep of aged organic compost into the garden before planting is a good idea.

Is cilantro sun or shade tolerant? Cilantro thrives under full sun. It also accepts light shade but not more than 2 hours of shade. When sowing your seeds, choose a spot that receives full sun for about 6 hours or more.

In scorching climates, light shade works better than direct sun. One way to judge the amount of shade allowed for the growing cilantro in your zone is by measuring the air temperature. The ideal growing temperature for cilantro crops is 64 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cilantro seeds should not be sown until the last date of spring frost.

Cilantro Growing Care Under The Sun

Cilantro, also known as coriander, can be grown from nursery transplants or seeds sown directly in the garden. Plant your seeds about 2 inches apart in rows based about 12 inches apart. If you are planting in pots, use a good amount of organic potting mix. Ensure that your soil is rich enough and remains moist throughout germination and growth. When the seedlings germinate, thin them to about 6 inches apart and provide consistent moisture as they grow.

Cilantro always saves seeds, and you are likely to find a patch of cilantro producing new plants as long as you want. You can either leave the seeds to continue receding every season or harvest them and save them for planting in another season. That said, here are some essential tips on how to care for cilantro.

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Provide Enough Light

Does cilantro need full sun? Cilantro loves bright indirect light, but it does not thrive under intense direct sunlight. That said, ensure that you provide your plants with a good amount of sun and shade if you live in a scorching area. However, if your location receives a minimum amount of sunlight, ensure that your cilantro receives about 6 hours of direct sunlight.

If you are growing your cilantro in container gardens, allow them to enjoy the morning sun in an east-facing window or a through a bright seal that does not get too much direct sunlight. If you plan to sow directly into the garden, plant them at a spot that receives the morning sun with afternoon shade.

Provide Rich, Well-drained Soil

Cilantro prefers a very light and fast-draining soil with plenty of sand or perlite mixed with increasing drainage. If growing in the garden, add mulch around the plants as soon as they have grown tall enough to be visible. In a container, use premium potting mix rather than the garden soil, which tends to be too heavy. Ensure that your soil is rich by adding organic, compost manure, or old animal manure.

Keep A Constant Watering Routine

Keep the soil regular moist but not soaked. Good drainage in your soil is essential as cilantro has deep roots. Ensure that you water at least an inch of water each week without fail. If your area receives too much sunlight, you can change your watering schedule to 2 to 3 inches per week.

Provide The Right Growing Temperature And Humidity

Cilantro bolts in warm weather. Once bolting happens, it changes its flavor from being sweet to bitter. Flowering will occur quickly once the temperatures are above 75 degrees Fahrenheit. For potted plants, you can extend the harvest season by keeping the plants in a controlled environment. Keep them around 70 degrees F, bringing them indoors to an air-conditioned environment when outdoor temperatures get too warm.

Fertilize Your Plants

It would help not to fertilize cilantro, but you can use organic compost manure when planting. Use liquid fertilizer or supplement the soil with controlled-release pellets if you don’t have organic manure. Feed these herbs with fertilizer at least once a month.

Pruning

Most gardeners do not know that cilantro requires pruning. To extend your cilantro harvest, snip of its soft stems regularly rotating the plant to encompass the whole plant. As the young plants grow, pinch back at least an inch to encourage fuller plants.

Potting And Re-potting

Cilantro is an annual plant that grows with a deep taproot. This means it does not like re-potting and will likely be damaged at the slightest provocation. Therefore, it is best to re-pot your garden center-bought cilantro only once after bringing it home. After that, keep your plant in that container for the rest of its life. Seed-grown cilantro can transition from your seed starting pot to its permanent home in another container or the garden. Because cilantro is an annual plant, mature plants should never be re-potted. A fully mature cilantro plant can grow up to a height of 24 inches, including its flower stalks.

Harvesting Cilantro

Cilantro leaves will be ready for harvest in about 3 to 4 weeks from the time you sow the seeds. Cilantro or coriander seeds can be harvested in about 45 days or when the plant is about 324 inches tall.

When harvesting, cut the leaves at the bottom of the plant to avoid harvesting more than 1/3 of the plant at the time. Cutting off too much can weaken the plant.

If you want to harvest, the seeds clip the seed heads and put them upside down in a paper bag. Give them a couple of days and the husks will dry, split and drop out the seeds inside the paper bag.

Cilantro Varieties You Can Grow Under The Sun

There are a few varieties that you can choose from they include

Santa – this variety has bushy leaves, and it is slow to become bitter

Calypso – this cultivar produces full plants that are among the slowest to get bitter or bolt.

Cruiser – best cultivar has full stems and large leaves and grows upright

Confetti – it is a highly ornamental variety with fern-like leaves

Leisure – it is a very standard type of cilantro that attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

FAQs

Where does cilantro grow best?

Cilantro is a hardy annual herb. In areas with mild winters it will come back year after year. In most areas it will not survive the winter unless you mulch or protect it from frost. It does not need much water and can be planted as early as late fall. It prefers to be in full sun, but will tolerate light shade. It does not tolerate wet soils and will not tolerate salty soil.

It can be planted in spring or fall.

What is the trick to growing cilantro?

You can either buy a ready-to-plant cilantro mix or start seeds indoors. Planting seeds is the easiest method. You can grow them in a pot in your kitchen window or under a grow light. Be sure to use a pot that drains well. When the seedlings are big enough to handle, plant them out in a sunny area and let them grow for a few weeks. Remove any weeds and then cut back to about 3 inches above the ground. Water frequently until they start to get bushy. After they have established themselves, you can plant them out in a sunny spot.

Does cilantro like a lot of light?

Yes, it does. If you are growing it in full sun, you will need to water it often. Cilantro likes light shade but doesn’t do well in deep shade. It is one of the few herbs that like a lot of heat. Cilantro does best in well-drained soil. A soil with some organic matter and compost is ideal. Do not let it dry out. In fact, water it more than your other herbs.

How do you care for an outdoor cilantro plant?

It’s very easy to grow and will thrive in partial shade or full sun. It grows quickly and will produce seedheads in the fall. You can cut the plants back to ground level and they will regrow. Cilantro is used fresh in Mexican cooking and is also used as a garnish for Mexican dishes, especially seafood. It’s an herb that should be planted in a container with good drainage and kept in a well-drained spot that receives full sun. The easiest way to fertilize is to add fish emulsion to your drip irrigation system. A good fertilizer for cilantro is fish emulsion (available at most nurseries). Apply this fertilizer once a month in the summer.
You need to water it every day in the summer, and keep it shaded if you live in a hot climate. It will produce a lot of leaves all summer, so when it starts to go to seed, cut the stems off and dry them. You can use them fresh in salads or stir-fries or even freeze them to make pesto.

Conclusion

How much sun does cilantro need? Let’s say enough sun. Because regions receive a varying amount of sun, it is best to ensure that your cilantro is not receiving too much or too little Sun.

Before planting your cilantro, check your area’s weather patterns to know how much sun you will receive. With this information, you will be able to decide how much sun and shade to provide.
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.

November 28, 2021
Low Acid Tomato Varieties You Can Grow

Low acid tomato varieties are an excellent alternative for people who cannot handle high acidity levels due to certain medical conditions.

Some of these medical conditions include cold sores, ulcers, acid reflux, and stomach problems.

Tomatoes generally contain citric acid, and your body uses this acid to produce energy. Unfortunately, some people cannot use this acid due to some dietary problems, thus requiring low acid ones. Low-acid tomatoes are the best option to grow.

The Low Acid Tomato Varieties

Tomato varieties that fall into the low-acid range have smaller seeds and more flesh than other varieties. Low acid tomatoes make the best option for sauces and pastes; hence, they are paste tomatoes.

We have compiled a list of the most delicious, least acidic tomatoes for you who prefer low acid tomatoes.

Low Acid Tomato Varieties To Choose From

Amish Paste

It is a red variety known since 1885 and a good producer. This variety performs well under most growing conditions growing to approximately 1.5m in height with fruits weighing around 225g.

Artisan Blush

This organic cherry variety was introduced in 2017. It is a very prolific producer, growing up to 2m tall. It has elongated small-sized fruits the size of 2 small cherry tomatoes.

Check Out How To Add Calcium To Soil For Tomatoes

Cream Sausage

This bush tomato produces about 7 cm long fruit best for making sweet yellow tomato paste.

Roma

This is the most famous Italian tomato, best known for the best sources made from the bright red flesh. This vigorous plant produces about 50g of fruit, so tasty even when used in salads or dried.

San Marzano

This is another bright red Roma-style tomato with 7cm long tasty fruit suitable for paste, puree, or eating fresh.

Oxheart

This pink tomato has the shape of a heart and is a standard Italian home gardener variety. It is very fleshy, therefore, great for making tomato paste. It also provides nice big slices for salads and sandwiches. The fruit grows up to 600g.

Black Oxheart

This is a medium to large oxheart tomato with dark, blushed skin with great rich flavor. You will need to stake these plants as they grow 2 m high.

Albenga Oxheart

This tomato variety is from the northern regions of Italy and matures later than other varieties. It has a sizeable pear-shaped fruit weighing about 230g with excellent taste. The vines grow up to 1.5 m and have good disease resistance.

Andiamo F1

It is a hybrid variety, very prolific and disease resistant. As with all Roma-style tomatoes, this superb variety is best eaten fresh, make tasty sauces and pastes or use it in salsa.

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Sun Gold, (F1)

The Sun Gold is a sweet, tangerine-orange cherry tomato. It produces beautiful tomato fruits throughout its growing season. It is the best tasting cherry tomato and great for home gardeners.

Supersweet 100, (F1)

The Supersweet 100 Tomato is a small 1-inch tomato with bright red flesh and skin. This variety has an extra sweet flavor and an outstanding high yield. It tastes like candy and has a high disease-fighting ability than most other classics. Supersweet 100 F1 is a delicious treat and one of the most nutritious tomatoes you can find anywhere! This variety has higher vitamin C content than any other tomato.

Big Rainbow

The Big Rainbow variety is one of the most beautiful tomatoes to grow. It has a gold and red sunset color when mature. This variety is a lovely and large tomato with an excellent flavor that you can’t get enough of.

Jet Star, (F1)

The Jet Star Tomato is a gardener’s all-time favorite and the industry’s standard hybrid tomato. It has a high sugar content that masks acidity. The fruits are meaty, globe-shaped, and can grow to weigh 6 to 8 ounces. It produces fruits in abundance in mid-to-late summer.

Ponderosa Pink

This tomato is extra large and tasty with a bright pink hue, perfect for fresh and cooked sauces. It weighs about 16 ounces and is almost seedless.

Pink Girl, (F1)

The Pink Girl variety produces lovely, smooth, juicy, and high-quality pink tomatoes. They are enjoyed all summer long and have low acidity. It yields about 3.5 inches round fruits that weigh about 6 to 8 ounces.

Moneymaker

The Moneymaker Tomato is a terrific popular variety that has a high yield. It produces delicious, bright red, and smooth fruits perfect for fresh eating. Its vine can grow up to 5 to 6 inches making an excellent 4 to 6 ounces. This variety does well in hot and humid areas and greenhouse environments. It originates from England and produces vigorous vines staked to achieve the best results.

Great White

The Great White Tomato is an award-winning white tomato! It is a unique variety with a creamy inside and grows up to 12 ounces. The Great White tomato is an exceptional big multi-purpose tomato with a unique color and great taste.

Amana Orange

The Amana Orange Tomato is a giant 1 pound tomato with a unique bright orange skin. It is very juicy with intensely flavored flesh! Best for eating fresh as one bite into it and you won’t forget its taste! Due to its attractive color, it looks great with any meal.

Sweet Million, (F1)

This variety has a delicious flavor with outstanding yields that keeps producing. Sweet Million F1 produces large clusters of smooth, bright red fruits that come early, producing all summer long. This variety is most popular among home gardeners because it is disease-resistant. The tomatoes are 1-1.5″ long, producing high yields until the first frost.

Conclusion

Low acid tomato varieties are many in the market. You only need to know the one that grows favorably in your area.

Generally, you can read about the acidity of a tomato variety before buying. Most seed packets provide this information, and you can also call your local extension office for additional details.

If you want to grow specialty or heirloom varieties, you may also get the pH information from the company through which you order.

Note that there are no acid-free tomatoes, as most people tend to believe. They are either high or low acid tomato varieties. Have a happy low acid tomato gardening, won’t you?
Brian
Brian believes the best days are spent outside with soil on your hands. He finds his rhythm in the details of the garden—from carefully tending to established plants to the excitement of propagating new varieties. A true outdoor enthusiast, Brian is here to swap stories, share advice, and celebrate the rewarding work of growing.

November 28, 2021