Questions and Answers

Yes, green onions and scallions refer to the same vegetable. The terms are used interchangeably in different regions.

Yes, you can regrow green onions from kitchen scraps. Place the white bulb ends with roots in a glass of water, ensuring the roots are submerged. Change the water regularly, and new growth will emerge from the top.

Bolting occurs when green onions prematurely produce a flower stalk. To prevent bolting, avoid planting them during the hottest part of the year and keep the soil consistently moist.

Yes, green onions can be grown indoors. Use containers with good drainage and place them in a location that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Supplemental grow lights can also be used.

To control the spread of alliums, deadhead spent flowers promptly to prevent self-seeding. Alternatively, plant sterile hybrids or varieties that are less prone to spreading.

Alliums pair well with a variety of plants in the garden, including perennials such as iris, peonies, and daylilies. They also complement annuals like marigolds, petunias, and zinnias. Consider planting them alongside ornamental grasses for added texture and interest.

Allium seeds are small and should be planted just below the surface of the soil. Press them lightly into the soil or cover with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine soil.

Allium seeds should be planted indoors in late winter or early spring, about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This timing allows seedlings to establish before being transplanted outdoors.

While most plants can be affected by gnat infestations, certain species that prefer moist soil conditions or are kept indoors where humidity levels can be higher may be more susceptible. Plants such as ferns, peace lilies, and orchids are commonly associated with gnat problems due to their preference for humid environments and organic-rich soil.

Yes, over-fertilizing your plants can contribute to attracting gnats. Excess fertilizer can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can create conditions favorable for fungus gnats. These pests are attracted to the organic matter that decomposes as a result of over-fertilization. It's important to follow recommended fertilization practices and avoid applying more fertilizer than necessary.

Gnats themselves typically do not pose a direct health threat to humans. However, their presence can be annoying, especially when they hover around your face or food. Some people may experience minor skin irritation from gnat bites, but this is rare.

After flowering, leave the foliage in place and continue watering until it yellows and dies back naturally. This allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's bloom. Once the foliage has died back, you can either leave the pot as is or dig up the bulbs, separate them, and replant them in fresh potting mix for next season.

Daffodils prefer full to partial sunlight, so choose a location where they will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A south- or west-facing window is ideal for indoor pots. If your outdoor space doesn't receive full sun, a spot with bright, indirect light will suffice.

Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically for bulbs or mix your own using compost and perlite. Fill the pot about two-thirds full, leaving enough space for the bulbs and a top layer of soil. Plant the bulbs at a depth two to three times their height, with the pointy end facing up. Space them depending on the size of the bulbs and the container. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Many daffodil varieties thrive in pots and containers. Miniature varieties like Tete a Tete or Minnow are excellent choices due to their compact size and cheerful blooms. Other popular options include Jetfire (yellow and orange), Hawera (pale yellow), and Baby Boomer (yellow and orange).

Absolutely! Daffodils grow exceptionally well in pots and containers, making them perfect for patios, balconies, or even indoor spaces. Choose a container with holes to prevent waterlogged soil, and ensure it's deep enough to accommodate the bulbs and provide space for root growth.

To encourage larkspur to reseed, allow some of the flowers to remain on the plant and produce seeds. After the seeds have matured and dried, collect them and scatter them in the garden where you want them to grow next season. Lightly rake the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Yes, larkspur flowers and foliage contain alkaloids that are toxic to both humans and animals if ingested. It's advisable to plant larkspur away from areas frequented by pets and children and to handle them with gloves when working with the plants.

Yes, larkspur can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate their root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container receives adequate sunlight. Regular watering is essential, as containers can dry out faster than garden beds.

Yes, moon flowers are toxic if ingested by pets. They contain alkaloids that can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Keep moon flowers out of reach of pets and monitor them closely if they have access to your garden.

Yes, moon flowers can be successfully grown in large containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix. Provide a support structure for the vines to climb.

Yes, moon flowers thrive in full sun and require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow and bloom properly. They can tolerate partial shade, but this may result in fewer blooms.

Moon flower seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate, depending on the temperature and moisture conditions. Scarifying and soaking the seeds before planting can help speed up the germination process.

The best time to plant moon flower seeds is after the last frost date in your area when the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). In cooler climates, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outside once the danger of frost has passed.

Lychee trees are self-pollinating, so you don’t necessarily need another tree for pollination. However, having more than one tree can increase fruit yield due to better cross-pollination.

Lychee trees can be grown indoors in large containers, but they require a lot of light. Place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights to ensure they get sufficient sunlight. Keep in mind that they may not reach their full potential indoors and may produce fewer fruits.

Lychee trees typically take about 3-5 years to start bearing fruit if grown from a grafted sapling. If grown from seeds, it can take up to 10 years or more for the tree to produce fruit. Patience is key when growing lychee trees!

Dracaena plants prefer indirect light and may get scorched if exposed to direct sunlight

Brown tips can be caused by low humidity, fluoride or chlorine in the water, or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity, use distilled or rainwater, and ensure regular watering.

Yes, many dracaena species can tolerate low light conditions, although their growth may be slower, and colors less vibrant. Dracaena fragrans and Dracaena marginata are particularly tolerant of low light.

Dracaenas can be kept outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. In cooler zones, they should be grown indoors or brought inside during the winter months.

Yes, chocolate mint, like other mint varieties, contains essential oils with various health benefits. It can be used in herbal teas, tinctures, or as a flavoring agent in homemade remedies for digestive issues, headaches, and relaxation.

Chocolate mint is most productive during the growing season, typically from spring to fall. While it may continue to produce leaves indoors during the winter months, growth may slow down due to reduced sunlight and lower temperatures.

Like other mint varieties, chocolate mint has a tendency to spread vigorously. To prevent it from taking over your garden, consider planting it in containers or using barriers to contain its growth.

Yes, chocolate mint can be grown indoors in containers placed in a sunny location. Ensure the plant receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily and provide adequate airflow to prevent humidity-related issues.

There are several ways to preserve cilantro: freezing, drying, or making pesto are popular options. You can also store coriander seeds for later use in cooking. To harvest coriander seeds, let the cilantro flowers mature and dry on the plant. Once the seeds turn brown, collect them and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

You can start harvesting cilantro leaves when the plants are about 6 inches tall. Snip or pinch off outer leaves regularly to encourage bushier growth and delay bolting. To extend your cilantro harvest, you can sow new cilantro seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures and full sun, but it can struggle in hot climates. If you live in a hot area, try growing cilantro indoors or provide afternoon shade outdoors. Ensure well-draining soil, consistent moisture (about 1 inch of water per week), and good air circulation to prevent diseases. Remember that cilantro is a fast-growing annual, so it may bolt (flower) quickly in hot weather.

Cilantro has a unique, citrusy, and slightly peppery flavor that many people love. However, some individuals have a genetic variation that makes cilantro taste like soap. If you're one of them, don't worry! There are plenty of alternative herbs to use, such as parsley, mint, basil, or even Vietnamese coriander (rau ram).

Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant (Coriandrum sativum). Cilantro refers to the leaves and stems, while coriander refers to the dried seeds. To enjoy fresh cilantro, you need to grow the plant from seed. It's an easy plant to grow both indoors and outdoors. Simply sow cilantro seeds directly into well-draining potting mix or garden soil, provide ample sunlight, and water regularly (about 1 inch of water per week).

Yes, you can continue to use the same sweet potato to produce more slips as long as it remains healthy. Rotate the sweet potato to expose different parts to the growing conditions.

Yes, sweet potato slips can be started indoors using the indoor soil method. This allows for better control over growing conditions and ensures the slips are ready for planting when the weather is suitable.

One sweet potato can produce multiple slips. On average, you can expect to get 10-15 slips from a single sweet potato.

es, you can grow slips from store-bought sweet potatoes, but it's best to use organic sweet potatoes. Non-organic sweet potatoes may be treated with sprout inhibitors, which can hinder slip growth.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks for slips to grow from a mature sweet potato. The exact time can vary depending on the method used and the growing conditions.

Yes, many edible flowers can be dried and stored:

• Air-dry flowers like chamomile, lavender, and rose petals in a cool, dark place.
• Store dried flowers in airtight containers away from direct sunlight.

Children can safely consume edible flowers if they are properly identified and prepared. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor for any allergic reactions. Ensure the flowers are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Yes, many edible flowers contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example:

• Nasturtiums are high in vitamin C.
• Dandelions contain vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and iron.
• Calendula petals are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomile is used for various purposes. The daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers can be used fresh or dried to make soothing chamomile tea. Chamomile flowers can also be used to make tinctures, salves, and other natural remedies. Homegrown chamomile makes delicious tea! Simply steep a few fresh or dried flowers in hot water for a relaxing cup of chamomile tea.

Yes, you can grow chamomile indoors! Start chamomile seeds in a pot that is at least 6 inches deep and place it in a sunny location. Make sure the soil stays moist and well-drained. Young chamomile plants can also be transplanted into larger pots.

Chamomile likes full sun and well-draining soil. It's a great companion plant for many vegetables and herbs. To care for chamomile, ensure it has enough water and deadhead the flowers to encourage new buds. Chamomile plants can quickly become invasive, so it's important to control their spread.

The best time to plant chamomile is in the spring after the last frost. You can harvest chamomile flowers throughout the summer and fall as they bloom. Pick chamomile flowers with yellow centers and white petals when they are fully open.

Chamomile is an easy-to-grow herb that thrives in the garden. You can start chamomile from seed indoors or sow them directly in the ground during the spring. Both common chamomile and German chamomile grow in similar conditions and are easy to care for.

Yes, the flowers of many viola varieties are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and beverages. However, it's essential to ensure that the flowers have not been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Only consume flowers from plants grown organically or specifically labeled as edible.

Several factors can affect flowering in violas, including inadequate sunlight, nutrient deficiencies, overcrowding, or stress from extreme temperatures or waterlogged soil. Ensure that your violets receive sufficient sunlight, fertilize as needed, thin out overcrowded areas, and provide optimal growing conditions to encourage blooming.

Violas can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds. Division involves separating clumps of mature plants into smaller sections, each with roots attached. Cuttings can be taken from healthy stems and rooted in moist potting mix. Seeds can be sown indoors or directly in the garden, following the guidelines outlined earlier in this article.

Yes, many varieties of violas can be grown indoors as houseplants. Choose a bright, sunny windowsill or provide supplemental lighting to ensure adequate sunlight. Use well-draining potting soil and water the plants regularly, taking care not to overwater. Indoor violets may benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season.

You can start your pepper growing journey by planting pepper seeds in a seed starter mix or seed trays indoors. Keep the soil moist and warm, and within a few weeks, you should see pepper seedlings emerge. Once they have a few sets of true leaves, you can plant your seedlings in larger pots with a good potting mix.

Peppers need a lot of direct sunlight to grow and thrive. While you can grow them in a sunny window, they'll likely do much better with a grow light, especially in winter when sunlight is limited. These are a great option, as they provide the full spectrum that pepper plants need and don't produce too much heat. If you're a pepper geek and want to grow many peppers, a grow tent with LED grow lights is highly recommended.

The best peppers for indoor growing are those that tend to grow smaller and more compact. This includes smaller pepper varieties like Thai peppers, ornamental chili peppers, and some types of sweet peppers like banana peppers. While you can grow larger peppers like bell peppers indoors, they'll need a bigger pot (at least a 1-gallon pot) and may not produce as many peppers as they would outdoors.

Yes! It's absolutely possible to grow peppers indoors year-round, even in the winter. However, you'll need to provide the right growing conditions. Peppers need plenty of sunshine, warmth, and consistent moisture to thrive. Consider using a grow tent with LED grow lamps and a heat mat, especially in winter, to ensure your peppers get enough sunshine and warmth to keep growing.

Celery is frost-sensitive, particularly when young. Protect seedlings from frost and ensure mature plants are harvested before the first fall frost. Using row covers or cloches can provide some protection against unexpected cold snaps.

Start celery seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. In milder climates, you can also plant celery in late summer for a fall harvest.

Celery takes about 120-140 days to mature from seed. Transplants can shorten the growing period by a few weeks. Starting seeds indoors and transplanting them can give you a head start on the growing season.

Yes, you can grow celery from store-bought stalks. Cut the base of the stalk (about 2-3 inches) and place it in a shallow dish of water. Once roots and new shoots appear, transplant it into soil. This method is an easy way to propagate celery, although it may not produce as robust a plant as starting from seed.

In regions with cold winters, it's essential to prepare asparagus crowns for planting by providing adequate protection from freezing temperatures. One method is to plant crowns in trenches and gradually fill them in with soil as the weather warms up. Alternatively, you can start crowns indoors in pots and transplant them outdoors once the threat of frost has passed.

Yes, mature asparagus plants can be divided to create new plants. Dividing is typically done in early spring before new growth begins. Carefully dig up the crowns and use a sharp knife to divide them into sections, making sure each section has both roots and shoots. Replant the divisions in well-prepared soil.

Yes, you can! Asparagus can be grown in containers, but keep in mind that they have deep root systems, so choose a container that is at least 18 inches deep. Make sure the container has good drainage, and use a well-draining potting mix. Additionally, consider planting only one or two crowns per container to allow enough space for root development.

Marigold plants are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season. However, they often self-seed, so you may find new marigold plants growing in the same area the following year.

Yes, marigold seeds can be saved for next year's planting. Allow the flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant, then collect the seeds from the dried flower heads. Store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them.

Yes, some marigold varieties, like signet marigolds, are edible and can be used to add color and flavor to salads and other dishes.

Yes, marigolds are well-suited to container gardening. Ensure the container has drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix. Water regularly and provide adequate sunlight.

While it’s safe to eat raw, spaghetti squash is typically cooked to enjoy its unique texture. Cooking helps bring out its mild, slightly sweet flavor and makes the flesh tender enough to resemble spaghetti strands.

This could be due to poor pollination. Spaghetti squash relies on bees for pollination. If there aren't enough pollinators, try hand-pollinating flowers using a small brush.

A healthy spaghetti squash plant can produce between 4 to 8 fruits per plant, depending on growing conditions and care.

Yes, you can grow spaghetti squash in large containers, at least 20 gallons in size. Ensure the container has good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. Support the vines with a trellis to save space.

Yes, you can harvest multiple times from the same plant by picking the outer leaves as they mature while allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This method, known as "cut-and-come-again," allows you to enjoy a continuous harvest of fresh spinach leaves over an extended period.

Yes, several companion plants pair well with indoor-grown spinach and can help promote healthy growth while deterring pests. Some examples include lettuce, radishes, carrots, and herbs like basil and dill. These companion plants can provide shade, attract beneficial insects, and enhance the overall diversity and productivity of your indoor garden.

While you can technically reuse soil from your indoor spinach containers for future plantings, it's essential to refresh and replenish the soil to ensure optimal plant growth. Remove any remaining roots or debris from the soil, and amend it with fresh compost or potting mix to replenish nutrients. Additionally, consider rotating your crops or practicing crop rotation to minimize soil depletion and reduce the risk of disease buildup.

You can collect oregano leaves throughout the growing season, but the best time is just before the oregano flowers. This is when the leaves have the strongest flavor. To gather, cut the stems back to about 4 to 6 inches tall, leaving some new growth to continue producing leaves.

There are many varieties of oregano you can grow from seed. Popular choices include Greek oregano, known for its pungent flavor, and Italian oregano, which has a milder taste. You can also try other varieties like sweet marjoram, a close relative of oregano with a sweeter flavor.

Yes, oregano can be grown indoors successfully. Ensure your plant receives plenty of sunlight (at least 6 hours a day) and is planted in well-draining soil or compost. Consider starting your seeds indoors before transplanting them to small pots for indoor growing.

Oregano is generally easy to grow from seed, even for beginners. With the right conditions and care, your oregano seeds will germinate and thrive.

It’s always best to choose non-invasive vine species or cultivars, and monitor growth regularly to prevent overreach. Consider planting vines in containers or using root barriers to contain spread in garden beds.

Prune climbing vines during the dormant season in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Additionally, remove dead or damaged branches throughout the year as needed.

Yes, several indoor vine varieties, such as Pothos, tolerate low light conditions and thrive indoors with minimal sunlight.

While papaya plants are capable of self-pollination, hand-pollination can help ensure a higher rate of fruit set and improve the overall yield. If you notice a lack of pollinators in your area or if environmental conditions are unfavorable for natural pollination, you can manually transfer pollen from male to female flowers using a small brush or cotton swab to facilitate fruit formation.

Monitor the moisture levels of the soil around your papaya plant regularly by inserting your finger into the soil to a depth of about 1-2 inches. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. Additionally, observe the foliage for signs of wilting or drooping, which can indicate dehydration. Adjust your watering frequency accordingly to ensure adequate hydration for your papaya plant.

Papaya plants are dioecious, meaning they produce separate male and female flowers on different plants. Male flowers have long, thin stalks with pollen-containing anthers, while female flowers have round, bulbous structures at the base, which develop into fruit if pollinated. You can determine the sex of your papaya plant by observing the flower structure.

Papaya plants should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer containing equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Adjust the frequency and dosage based on the plant's growth rate and nutrient requirements.

Yes, papayas can be grown indoors in containers if provided with sufficient sunlight, warmth, and humidity. Choose a large container with adequate drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Place the container near a sunny window or provide supplemental lighting with grow lights.

Yes, as long as they have similar light, water, and temperature requirements. Some suitable companions for cherry tomatoes include herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley, which can benefit from the warmth and humidity provided by the tomato plants.

Yes. To do so, simply select ripe, healthy tomatoes from your plants and remove the seeds from the flesh. Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp, then spread them out to dry on a paper towel or plate. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container until you're ready to plant them. Keep in mind that seeds saved from hybrid cherry tomato varieties may not produce plants identical to the parent plant, so it's best to save seeds from heirloom or open-pollinated varieties for consistent results.

Yes, they can be grown hydroponically, which involves growing them in a soilless medium and providing nutrients through a water-based solution. Hydroponic systems can be an efficient way to grow cherry tomatoes indoors, as they allow for precise control over nutrient levels and water delivery. Popular hydroponic methods for cherry tomatoes include nutrient film technique (NFT), deep water culture (DWC), and drip irrigation systems.

Air plants can be mounted on various surfaces using materials such as wire, glue, or string. Choose a mount that allows air circulation around the plant and provides stability. Common mounting options include driftwood, cork bark, seashells, and decorative stones.

If an air plant becomes dehydrated, soak it in room temperature water for an extended period (up to several hours) to rehydrate the tissues. Ensure thorough drying afterward to prevent rot. Trim any dead or dried-out leaves, and adjust your watering schedule to prevent future dehydration.

Air plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making them ideal for placement near windows with sheer curtains or under fluorescent or LED grow lights. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can lead to leaf burn.

Yes, air plants are epiphytes, meaning they absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through their specialized leaves. They do not require soil for growth but can be attached to various surfaces such as wood, rocks, or shells for support.

Several factors can contribute to a lack of blooming in indoor flowering plants, including inadequate light, improper watering, insufficient fertilization, or environmental stress. Evaluate the plant's growing conditions and make adjustments as needed to encourage blooming. Additionally, ensure that the plant is receiving appropriate care based on its specific needs and requirements.

It depends on the quality of your tap water. Some indoor flowering plants are sensitive to chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride found in tap water. If possible, use filtered or distilled water to prevent potential harm to your plants.