What is a Frost Pocket? A frost pocket is a low-lying area in a landscape where cold air settles, leading to lower temperatures compared to the surrounding areas. These pockets are prone to frost formation, making them challenging environments for plant growth. Frost pockets can vary in size and shape, but they are typically found … Read more
I. What is a Girdling Root? A girdling root is a root that wraps around the trunk or main stem of a tree or plant, constricting its growth and potentially causing harm. This type of root can hinder the flow of water and nutrients throughout the plant, leading to stunted growth, reduced vigor, and even … Read more
What is a soilless mix? A soilless mix, also known as a growing medium or substrate, is a mixture of materials used to grow plants without the use of traditional soil. Soilless mixes are typically made up of a combination of organic and inorganic materials such as peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, coconut coir, and pine … Read more
I. What is Waterlogging? Waterlogging is a condition in which the soil becomes saturated with water, leading to a lack of oxygen in the root zone of plants. This excess water prevents air from reaching the roots, which can ultimately suffocate the plant and lead to root rot. Waterlogging can occur in both outdoor gardens … Read more
What is a watersprout? A watersprout is a type of shoot that grows rapidly and vertically from the branches or trunk of a tree or plant. These shoots are characterized by their fast growth, lack of leaves, and tendency to grow in a straight line. Watersprouts are often considered undesirable because they can detract from … Read more
What is Crown Reduction? Crown reduction is a common tree pruning technique that involves selectively removing branches and foliage from the upper canopy of a tree to reduce its overall size and shape. This process is typically done to improve the health and appearance of a tree, as well as to prevent potential hazards such … Read more
What is a propagule? A propagule is a structure or part of a plant that is capable of reproducing and giving rise to a new individual. Propagules are used in horticulture as a means of propagating plants and creating new populations. They can be seeds, bulbs, cuttings, or any other part of a plant that … Read more
What is a bare-root plant? A bare-root plant is a plant that is sold and transported without any soil around its roots. Instead, the roots are typically wrapped in moist material such as peat moss or sawdust to keep them hydrated during transport and storage. Bare-root plants are often dormant when they are sold, making … Read more
What is a soil amendment? A soil amendment is any material that is added to soil to improve its physical properties, fertility, or structure. Soil amendments can help to enhance the growth of plants by providing essential nutrients, improving soil structure, increasing water retention, and promoting beneficial microbial activity. They can be organic or inorganic … Read more
What is Seed Dormancy? Seed dormancy is a natural mechanism that prevents a seed from germinating under unfavorable conditions. It is a survival strategy that allows seeds to remain viable until the conditions are right for germination. Dormancy can be triggered by a variety of factors, including temperature, light, moisture, and chemical inhibitors within the … Read more