What is a chilling requirement? A chilling requirement refers to the amount of cold temperature exposure that a plant needs in order to break dormancy and resume normal growth and development. This requirement is typically measured in chilling hours, which are the number of hours that a plant is exposed to temperatures between 32°F and … Read more
What is Espalier? Espalier is a horticultural technique used to train plants to grow flat against a wall, fence, or trellis in a specific pattern. This method has been practiced for centuries and is popular in formal gardens and orchards. Espaliered plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve practical purposes such as maximizing … Read more
What is Root Bound? Root bound is a term used to describe a plant that has outgrown its container, causing the roots to become tightly packed and circling around the bottom of the pot. This occurs when the plant has been growing in the same container for too long without being repotted. As the roots … Read more
What is Intercropping? Intercropping is a farming practice where two or more crops are grown together in the same field at the same time. This method is different from traditional monoculture farming, where only one type of crop is grown in a field. Intercropping can involve planting crops in alternating rows, mixed rows, or even … Read more
What is Cold Hardiness? Cold hardiness refers to the ability of a plant to survive and thrive in cold temperatures. It is a crucial trait for plants that are exposed to winter conditions, as extreme cold can damage or kill plants that are not adapted to withstand low temperatures. Cold hardiness is especially important for … Read more
What is Deadheading? Deadheading is the practice of removing spent or faded flowers from plants in order to encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period. This process involves cutting off the dead flower heads before they have a chance to produce seeds. Deadheading can be done on a variety of plants, including annuals, perennials, … Read more
What is Mulching? Mulching is a gardening practice that involves covering the soil around plants with a layer of organic or inorganic material. This material can include things like wood chips, straw, leaves, grass clippings, or plastic sheeting. The purpose of mulching is to protect the soil, conserve moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and … Read more
What is Tissue Culture? Tissue culture is a technique used in plant science to propagate plants from small tissue samples under sterile conditions. This method allows for the rapid multiplication of plants without the need for seeds. In tissue culture, plant cells are placed in a nutrient-rich medium containing essential nutrients and growth hormones to … Read more
What is Crop Rotation? Crop rotation is a farming practice where different types of crops are planted in the same area in sequential seasons. This method helps to improve soil health, reduce pests and diseases, and increase crop yields. By rotating crops, farmers can prevent the depletion of nutrients in the soil and maintain its … Read more
What is T-Budding? T-budding, also known as shield budding, is a common method of plant propagation used to create new plants by grafting a bud from one plant onto the rootstock of another. This technique is commonly used in horticulture to propagate a wide variety of plants, including fruit trees, ornamental trees, and shrubs. How … Read more