Companion Planting – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is Companion Planting? Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together in a way that benefits one or both of the plants. This practice has been used for centuries by gardeners around the world to improve crop yields, deter pests, and promote overall plant health. By strategically planting certain plants … Read more

Bonsai – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is Bonsai? Bonsai is the ancient Japanese art of cultivating miniature trees in containers. The word “bonsai” itself is a combination of two Japanese words: “bon,” meaning tray or pot, and “sai,” meaning plant. Bonsai trees are carefully pruned and shaped to mimic the appearance of full-sized trees in nature. The goal of bonsai … Read more

Root Pruning – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is Root Pruning? Root pruning is a horticultural practice that involves cutting or trimming the roots of a plant to stimulate new growth and improve overall plant health. This process is commonly used in container gardening, bonsai cultivation, and when transplanting trees and shrubs. By selectively removing roots, root pruning encourages the development of … Read more

Buffer Zone – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is a buffer zone in horticulture? In horticulture, a buffer zone refers to a designated area within a garden or agricultural setting that serves as a protective barrier between different plant species or between plants and external influences. Buffer zones are commonly used to prevent the spread of pests, diseases, and weeds, as well … Read more

Herbicide – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is an herbicide? An herbicide is a type of pesticide specifically designed to control or kill unwanted plants, commonly referred to as weeds. Herbicides are used in agriculture, forestry, landscaping, and gardening to manage vegetation and improve crop yields. They work by disrupting essential plant processes, such as photosynthesis or growth regulation, leading to … Read more

Hybridization – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

I. What is Hybridization? Hybridization is the process of crossing two different species or varieties of plants to create a new hybrid plant with desirable traits from both parent plants. This can be done naturally through pollination or artificially by plant breeders. Hybridization is commonly used in horticulture to create plants with improved characteristics such … Read more

Hardening Off – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is Hardening Off? Hardening off is the process of gradually acclimating plants that have been grown indoors or in a greenhouse to outdoor conditions. This process helps plants adjust to the changes in temperature, sunlight, wind, and humidity that they will experience when they are planted outside. By exposing plants to these conditions gradually, … Read more

Spacing – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is spacing in horticulture? Spacing in horticulture refers to the distance between plants when they are planted in a garden or field. Proper spacing is essential for healthy plant growth, as it allows plants to access sunlight, water, and nutrients without competing with each other. The spacing of plants can vary depending on the … Read more