What is Leaf Mold? Leaf mold is a type of compost that is made from decomposed leaves. It is a dark, crumbly material that is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. Leaf mold is a valuable resource for gardeners as it helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and provide essential nutrients for plants. How is … Read more
What is Solarization? Solarization is a natural, environmentally friendly method of controlling weeds, pests, and diseases in the soil using the power of the sun. By covering the soil with a transparent plastic tarp, solarization utilizes the sun’s energy to heat the soil to high temperatures, effectively sterilizing it and killing off unwanted organisms. How … Read more
What is Topiary? Topiary is the art of shaping and sculpting plants into ornamental shapes and designs. It is a form of gardening that involves trimming and training plants to create intricate and artistic forms. Topiary has been practiced for centuries and is often used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to gardens, … Read more
What is Soil Structure? Soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles into aggregates or clumps. It is the way in which individual soil particles are grouped together to form larger units. Soil structure plays a crucial role in determining the physical properties of soil, such as porosity, permeability, and water-holding capacity. Good soil … Read more
What is a Scion? A scion is a young shoot or bud of a plant that is used in horticulture for grafting onto another plant. The scion is selected for its desirable characteristics, such as fruit quality, disease resistance, or growth habit. When grafted onto a compatible rootstock, the scion will grow and develop into … Read more
What is pH Level? pH level is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, such as soil or water. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being considered neutral. A pH level below 7 indicates acidity, while a pH level above 7 indicates alkalinity. pH is an important factor … Read more
What is the Growing Season? The growing season refers to the period of time during which plants are able to grow and thrive. It is typically defined as the time between the last frost in the spring and the first frost in the fall, when temperatures are warm enough for plants to grow and mature. … Read more
What does it mean to be containerized in horticulture? In horticulture, the term “containerized” refers to plants that are grown in containers such as pots, planters, or boxes, rather than in the ground. This method of growing plants has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and versatility. Containerized plants can be … Read more
I. What is Pinching in Horticulture? Pinching is a common horticultural practice that involves removing the growing tip of a plant to encourage branching and promote a bushier growth habit. This technique is typically used on young plants to shape and control their growth, as well as to promote more flowers or fruit production. Pinching … Read more
What is a biostimulant? A biostimulant is a substance or microorganism that, when applied to plants, enhances their growth, development, and overall health. Biostimulants are not considered fertilizers, as they do not provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium. Instead, biostimulants work by improving the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients, resist stress, and promote … Read more