Spinach has been around since antiquity. Originating in Persia, this leafy green was introduced to India, where it was then acquired by the Chinese in about 647 A.D. and given the name the Persian vegetable. It wasn't until the 14th century that Spain introduced it to England and France. Spinach…
Have you ever planted seeds and waited patiently for sprouts to emerge only to discover that they never germinated? Not only is it frustrating, but it also sets your planting timetable back because you have to start over. While there are several reasons why a seed might not germinate, most…
In the gardening world, germination refers to the process by which seeds are brought out of their dormant state to begin development. Water, oxygen, soil temperature, and sometimes light are required for the process. When planting seeds, you can do everything right, and yet some seeds simply will not germinate. Even…
If you have ever started a garden, you know how exciting it is to sow seeds, whether directly into beds, containers, or in starter pots under a grow light. The anticipation of seeing little sprouts break through the soil is tempered only by the patience required to wait for signs…
These days, purple, red, yellow, and white carrots are all the rage. But vibrant colored varieties are nothing new. Indeed, carrots have a colorful past. This root crop, which hails from Afghanistan, was originally purple, black, red, white, and green. It wasn't until the 17th century when the Dutch cultivated…
If your plants have small, round, or sometimes irregularly shaped holes in their leaves, it could be a sign that flea beetles are making their home in your garden. The term flea beetle refers not to an individual species but to a group of beetles characterized by their petite size and…
Carrots are members of the Apiaceae family along with celery, dill, coriander, parsley, cumin, parsnip, and fennel. Carrots are perhaps best known for being a source of beta carotene, an antioxidant which the body converts to vitamin A. This root vegetable also has significant amounts of vitamins K and B6,…
You have probably heard of the groundhog from Pennsylvania named Punxsutawney Phil who is said to be able to predict winter's duration depending on whether or not he sees his shadow. But have you heard of the Woolly Bear caterpillar who can also make predictions about winter's severity? Much like…
Broccoli is a member of the Brassica family which includes cabbage, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and radishes. It is a favorite of new and experienced gardeners alike. As a cold weather crop, it is best suited for late fall and early spring gardens. While it is relatively easy to grow,…
Beets are an amazing root crop that you can easily grow in traditional beds or container gardens. But as with all vegetable crops, sometimes we don't always get the harvest we had hoped for. Sometimes, instead of beautifully formed beets, we harvest ones that are small and not fully developed. …