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Cultivation

How to Grow Achillea: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory May 25, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow Achillea: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Achillea, also known as yarrow, is a popular perennial plant known for its beautiful flowers and feathery foliage. It’s a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of settings, including borders, wildlife gardens, and gravel gardens. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing achillea, from planting to propagation and care.

Choosing the Right Location

Achillea prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it’s important to avoid waterlogged areas. Achilleas look great in the middle of an ornamental border or wildlife garden, and they’re also a good choice for growing in gravel gardens.

Planting Achillea

The best time to plant achillea is in spring. Dig a hole that is deeper and wider than the pot the plant came in. Add a handful of horticultural grit to the hole for added drainage. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and firm the soil around the plant. Water in well.

Caring for Achillea

Achilleas are relatively low-maintenance plants. Here are a few tips for keeping your plants healthy and blooming:

Cut back old foliage in spring.
Deadhead flowers throughout the summer to encourage more blooms.
Divide clumps every three to five years to revitalize the plants.
Water plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize plants lightly in spring.

Propagating Achillea

The best way to propagate achillea is by division in spring. You can also take cuttings in early spring. To take cuttings, pull away new shoots, leaving a heel, and plant into potting compost with added sand. Your cuttings should form new roots after a few weeks and can be potted on into individual pots when the plants are well established.

Some varieties of achillea will self-seed, but the resulting plants may not be true to type. If you want to collect seeds, allow a few flowerheads to go to seed. You can sow the seeds in autumn or spring.

Problem Solving

Achilleas can suffer from aphids and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep plants well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If you do notice aphids or powdery mildew, treat the plants with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

Five Great Achillea Varieties

There are many different varieties of achillea to choose from. Here are five of our favorites:

Achillea ‘Moonshine’: A variety with gray-green foliage and pretty light yellow flowers.
Achillea filipendulina ‘Cloth of Gold’: With light green foliage and deep golden blooms.
Achillea millefolium ‘Cerise Queen’: One of the pink varieties. The cerise flower heads have dark margins and paler coloring towards the center.
Achillea millefolium ‘Fanal’: The bright orange-red flowers with yellow eyes are very striking.
Achillea ‘Terracotta’: The beautiful blooms open orange and fade to yellow with age.

Conclusion

Achillea is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that can add a touch of color and interest to any garden. With its long blooming period and variety of colors and forms, achillea is a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

Fruit Gardening

Lychee: A Sweet Journey Through History and Cultivation

by Donna April 18, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Lychee: A Journey Through History

Introduction

Lychee trees are a beloved sight in many gardens, with their lush evergreen foliage and sweet, egg-sized fruit. But what many people don’t know is the fascinating history of this heirloom fruit tree, which has been cultivated for centuries.

Lychee Fruit Origins

The lychee’s journey began in the southern lowlands of China, where it was revered as the “king of fruits.” From its humble beginnings, the lychee tree spread to neighboring regions of Southeast Asia and its offshore islands. It wasn’t until the 17th century that the lychee was introduced to Burma, India, and the East Indies.

Lychees Through History

In the 19th century, the lychee tree finally arrived in the West, first appearing in England and France. From there, it was taken to the East Indies and eventually reached Hawaii (1873), Florida (1883), and California (1897). Despite its cultivation in the West, China has remained the primary producer of lychee fruit to this day.

Lychee Cultivation

Lychee trees thrive in warm subtropical climates, with short, mild winters and long, hot summers. They require well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. The trees can live for thousands of years, but their seeds only remain viable for a few days, which hindered their spread in the past.

Lychee Production

Today, India is the second-largest producer of lychees, followed by Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Queensland, Madagascar, Brazil, and South Africa. China still holds the top spot, producing over 30 million pounds of lychees annually.

Unique Characteristics of Lychee Fruit

Lychee fruit is known for its distinctive characteristics:

Sweet, juicy flesh with a floral aroma
Textured pink rind
Oval shape, about the size of an egg
Single, large seed

Challenges in Cultivating Lychee Trees

Lychee trees can be challenging to cultivate, especially in areas with cold winters or high humidity. They are susceptible to pests and diseases, and their delicate seeds require special care.

Lychee Tree Cultivation in Different Regions

China: China remains the largest producer of lychees, with a long history of cultivation and favorable growing conditions.
India: India has emerged as the second-largest producer, with a focus on commercial cultivation.
Southeast Asia: Lychee trees are widely grown in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
United States: Lychee cultivation in the US is primarily concentrated in Florida and California, with limited production in other states.
Europe: Lychee trees are grown in greenhouses in some parts of Europe, but production is limited due to the cold climate.
Africa: Lychee cultivation is gaining popularity in Africa, with countries like Madagascar and South Africa emerging as producers.
South America: Brazil is the main producer of lychees in South America, with cultivation also occurring in other countries.
Australia: Lychee trees are grown in Queensland, Australia, with a focus on commercial production.

Conclusion

The lychee tree has a rich and fascinating history, with its origins in China and its spread to various regions around the world. Its unique fruit and cultivation challenges make it both a beloved delicacy and a testament to the resilience of nature.

Fruit Trees

Pomegranates: A History of Cultivation, Uses, and Symbolism

by Gregory April 17, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

The Fascinating History of Pomegranates

Introduction

Pomegranates are a delicious and nutritious fruit with a long and fascinating history. They have been cultivated for centuries and have been featured in mythology, religion, and art.

Origins and Cultivation

The history of pomegranates begins in Central Asia and Persia, where they were first domesticated around 4,000 years ago. From there, cultivation spread throughout India, Asia Minor, and the Mediterranean coast. Spanish settlers brought pomegranates to North America in the 16th century.

Today, pomegranates are grown in many countries around the world, including Egypt, China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Iran. The largest commercial orchards are found in these regions.

Pomegranate Tree Characteristics

The pomegranate tree (Punica granatum) is a small tree, typically reaching heights of 10 feet (3 meters). It has many stems and a dense growth habit, often resembling a shrub more than a tree. However, pomegranates can be trained into trees with a single trunk.

In spring and summer, pomegranate trees produce vibrant orange blossoms. These blossoms develop into fruits, which are filled with hundreds of seeds surrounded by juicy pink pigments and a leathery white rind.

Pomegranate Fruit and Uses

Pomegranates are known for their unique and delicious fruit. The seeds, or arils, are surrounded by a sweet and tart juice. Pomegranate juice is a popular beverage and is also used in grenadine, a syrup used in mixed drinks.

In some countries, such as Iran, pomegranate juice is more popular than the fruit itself. In Saudi Arabia, the juice sacs are frozen for future use. In Asia, pomegranate juice is sometimes made into a thick syrup for use as a sauce.

Pomegranates can also be used to make spices. In northern India, wild pomegranates are used to make the spice called “anardana.” This spice is made by drying the juice sacs in the sun.

Pomegranate in History and Culture

Pomegranates have a long history of use in mythology, religion, and art.

In ancient Egypt, pomegranates were associated with fertility and rebirth.
In Greek mythology, pomegranates were said to be the food of the gods.
In the Bible, pomegranates are mentioned as a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
In Islamic culture, pomegranates are considered a sacred fruit and are often used in religious ceremonies.

Pomegranates have also been depicted in art for centuries. They can be found in paintings, mosaics, and sculptures from many different cultures.

Conclusion

Pomegranates are a delicious and nutritious fruit with a long and fascinating history. They have been cultivated for centuries and have been featured in mythology, religion, and art. Today, pomegranates are grown in many countries around the world and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Vegetable Gardening

Sweet Potatoes: A Comprehensive Guide to Varieties, Characteristics, and Cultivation

by Gregory May 20, 2023

written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Sweet Potatoes: A Guide to Varieties and Cultivation

Introduction

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and they are also relatively easy to grow. In this article, we will explore the different varieties of sweet potatoes, their characteristics, and how to grow them in your own garden.

Varieties of Sweet Potatoes

There are over 6,000 different varieties of sweet potatoes in the world, but only a fraction of these are grown in the United States. However, there are still plenty of varieties to choose from, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and appearance.

Covington: Rosy skin with deep orange flesh.
Darby: Deep red skin, deep orange flesh, vigorous vines.
Jewel: Coppery skin, bright orange flesh, semi-bush.
Bunch Porto-Rico: Yellow-orange skin and flesh, compact bush.
Excel: Orange-tan skin, coppery orange flesh, average to vigorous vines.
Evangeline: Rosy skin with deep orange flesh.
Heartogold: Tan skin, deep orange flesh, vigorous vines.
Red Garnet: Reddish-purple skin, orange flesh, average vines.
Vardaman: Pale orange skin, reddish-orange flesh, short vines.
Murasaki: Reddish purple skin, white flesh.
Golden Slipper (Heirloom): Pale orange skin and flesh, average vines.
Carolina Ruby: Deep reddish-purple skin, dark orange flesh, average vines.
O’Henry: Creamy white skin and flesh, semi-bush.
Bienville: Pale rose skin, dark orange flesh.
Envy: Pale orange skin and flesh, average vines.
Sumor: Creamy tan skin, tan to yellow flesh, average vines.
Hayman (Heirloom): Creamy skin and flesh, vigorous vines.
Jubilee: Creamy skin and flesh, average vines.
Nugget: Pinkish skin, pale orange flesh, average vines.
Carolina Bunch: Pale coppery, orange skin and carrot-colored flesh, semi-bush.
Centennial: Medium-large, semi-bush potatoes with copper skin and pale orange flesh.
Bugs Bunny: Pinkish-red skin, pale orange flesh, vigorous vines.
California Gold: Pale orange skin, orange flesh, vigorous vines.
Georgia Jet: Reddish-purple skin, deep orange flesh, semi-bush.

Characteristics of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes vary in size, shape, and color. They can be round, oval, or elongated, and their skin can be white, yellow, orange, red, or purple. The flesh of sweet potatoes can also vary in color, from white to yellow to orange to purple.

Sweet potatoes are also classified by their sweetness. Some varieties are mild, while others are very sweet. The sweetness of a sweet potato is determined by its sugar content, which varies depending on the variety and the growing conditions.

Growing Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are relatively easy to grow in warm climates. They require full sun and well-drained soil. Sweet potatoes can be grown from slips (small plants that are started indoors) or from cuttings.

To grow sweet potatoes from slips, plant them in the soil about 12 inches apart. Water the plants regularly, and fertilize them every few weeks. Sweet potatoes will be ready to harvest in about 100 days.

To grow sweet potatoes from cuttings, take a cutting from a healthy sweet potato plant. The cutting should be about 6 inches long and have at least two nodes (the points where leaves grow). Plant the cutting in moist soil, and keep it warm and humid. The cutting will develop roots and begin to grow in about two weeks.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the vines begin to die back. Dig the potatoes carefully using a spade or shovel. Avoid damaging the potatoes, as this can make them more susceptible to disease.

Storing Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes can be stored for several months in a cool, dark place. They should be stored in a single layer, and they should not be touching each other. Sweet potatoes can also be frozen for up to 1 year.

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easy to grow in warm climates. There are many different varieties of sweet potatoes to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your taste and needs. With a little care, you can grow a bountiful harvest of sweet potatoes in your own garden.

Vegetable Gardening

Yams vs. Sweet Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Botanical Differences, Nutrition, Cultivation, and Varieties

by Gregory May 10, 2023

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Yams vs. Sweet Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Have you ever wondered if the sweet potatoes you eat are actually yams? Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are actually two different types of vegetables. In this article, we’ll explore the botanical differences, nutritional value, cultivation methods, and varieties of yams and sweet potatoes.

Botanical Differences

Yams and sweet potatoes belong to different plant families. Sweet potatoes are members of the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae), while yams are members of the yam family (Dioscoreaceae). Yams are monocots, meaning they have one seed leaf, while sweet potatoes are dicots, meaning they have two seed leaves.

Nutritional Differences

Yams and sweet potatoes have similar nutritional profiles, but there are some key differences. Yams contain more sugar than sweet potatoes, but they also contain a toxin called oxalate. This toxin must be thoroughly cooked before yams are safe to eat. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, while yams are a good source of potassium and fiber.

Cultivation

Yams are native to tropical Africa and Asia, while sweet potatoes are native to tropical Central and South America. Yams require a warm, frost-free climate to grow, while sweet potatoes can tolerate cooler temperatures. Yams are typically grown from whole tubers or pieces of larger tubers, while sweet potatoes can be grown from tubers or slips (stem cuttings).

Varieties

There are over 600 species of yams, but only a few are commonly cultivated for food. Some popular varieties include:

Chinese yam: This variety is known for its large, starchy tubers.
White yam: This variety has white flesh and a mild flavor.
Lisbon yam: This variety has yellow flesh and a sweet flavor.
Pei tsao: This variety is a smaller yam with a nutty flavor.
Bak chiu: This variety is a long, slender yam with a sweet flavor.
Agua yam: This variety is a small, round yam with a high water content.

Medicinal Uses

Both yams and sweet potatoes have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Yams are said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while sweet potatoes are said to be good for digestion and blood sugar control.

Growing Yams

If you’re interested in growing yams, here are a few tips:

Choose a variety that is suited to your climate.
Plant yams in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Space yam plants 18-24 inches apart.
Water yams regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Harvest yams when the vines start to die back.

Conclusion

Yams and sweet potatoes are two distinct vegetables with different botanical characteristics, nutritional value, and cultivation requirements. Both vegetables are nutritious and versatile, and they can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to check out both yams and sweet potatoes and decide for yourself which one you prefer!