Growing Skills
Chit Seed Potatoes in Light Without Letting the Sprouts Grow Long
Prepare early seed potatoes in a bright, frost-free place and handle the short sprouts carefully when planting conditions are suitable.
SOIL · CROPS · FARM PRACTICE
Good growing starts below the surface.
A practical agriculture journal about soil, water and the observations that help growers make better decisions.
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Establishing Trees
Planting Bare-Root Trees Starts With Protecting the Roots
Plan the arrival and planting of bare-root trees so exposed roots stay protected and unsuitable ground conditions do not force a rushed job.
Seed Starting
Seed Depth Starts With the Seed Packet and the Growing Medium
Use the seed packet’s sowing instructions, prepare the medium before planting and keep a simple record when testing an unfamiliar crop.
Vegetable Growing
Blossom-End Rot Calls for More Than Adding Calcium
Investigate blossom-end rot through watering, soil conditions and plant care instead of assuming every affected tomato needs extra calcium.
Crop Notes
Garlic Scapes Are Not the Same Harvest as Garlic Bulbs
The curled stalk on hardneck garlic is a separate harvest opportunity. Identify the scape without mistaking it for a sign that the bulb is ready.
Vegetable Growing
Check the Tomato Type Before Removing Its Side Shoots
Identify whether a tomato is a cordon or bush variety before pinching out growth, and keep uncertain shoots until you can check.