Celery, a perennial herb and a favorite in backyard gardening, is versatile and gives a meaty aroma to vegetable dishes. Two varieties grown in home gardens are drought-resistant due to deep roots and tolerate various light conditions. Potting in deep containers along with regular root division and re-potting prevents root binding. Fresh and dried leaves possess a long-lasting aroma and enriches dishes,
Cuttings are pieces of plants used to propagate new plants. Cultivation benefits include obtaining plants true to the parent type, cost-effectiveness, and ease of transport. While some plants root easily, others require specific techniques. Despite being initially smaller than seed-grown or grafted plants, cuttings are easier to manage. Rooting powders or natural products like honey and cinnamon can improve success rates,
Nopales, an edible cactus variety, are easy to grow, drought and pest resistant, and can be maintained in a small space. High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Nopales are used widely in Mexican cuisine. They can be consumed raw, grilled, or boiled, and are used in various dishes such as soups, pickles, and salads. Nopales also serves as a healthy meat substitute due to their texture when seasoned correctly.
Summer figs, with over ten fruiting varieties, are exceptionally sweet and multi-purposed, used fresh, dried, in desserts, and jams. With correct mulching, composting, and watering, figs thrive well. Challenges lie in protecting them from birds, for which netting and bagging are suggested, and distractions with other fruits.
The Kiowa blackberry is an American variety known for its large, sweet-tart berries and prolific year-round growth, peaking in summer. The fruits are versatile and the rapidly growing vine requires minimal maintenance, is pest-resistant, and offers good yields even when potted. However, its thorny vines can be injurious and may spread quickly. Proper gloves, mulching, and composting are recommended during pruning and handling.
There are many missed opportunities to improve food security in urban areas because of space limitations and residing on leased properties. However many plants are able to produce reasonable yields in pots, recycled drums or buckets. Match the names with the pictures of the plants we grow in the Subtropical Urban Eden. You have more options than we think. Happy Independence day, Zambia.
Pomegranates demonstrate wide diversity in aspects like size, color, taste! Their cultivation is done from air layers, cuttings or seeds, with seeds potentially not being true to type. These plants thrive as shrubs in subtropical conditions, requiring well-drained, organic-rich soil. Key to their maintenance is preventing fruit fly infestation, adequate watering, and proper soil amendments. Despite occasional susceptibility to fungal diseases, pomegranates offer advantages like
In Zambia, October’s heat poses challenges for maintaining orchards, including dehydration, fruit drop, flowering issues, pests, and weeds. Still, drought-resistant plants like figs, mangoes, and potted herbs flourish. Key maintenance tactics include frequent watering, mulching, pest control, and avoiding transplanting. Long-term solutions include multi-cropping and planting multiple canopy levels to protect from sunlight.
Peaches, ripening mostly in September and October, are aromatic fruits, popular across age groups, with characteristics varying by variety. Despite susceptibility to fruit fly infestations, fungal diseases, and damage from birds or dry heat, proper care like bird deterrent strategies and regular watering can maintain the fruit’s quality. These fruits can serve as a wholesome snack option, suitable for school lunches.
Word games help to keep the mind active to enhance and preserve brain function as we grow older. It is also easier to remember facts we learn through interactive processes. Let’s work, eat and learn how to live healthier and more fulfilling lifestyles. #LoveHomeGrown. #GardeningAndHealth
October in the southern subtropics is ideal for harvesting, drying, and preserving herbs and vegetables, grown in pots. Green sorrel and giant fennel, both resilient herbs, grow well here. The dried produce can stay viable for two years based on the storage conditions. Additionally, the text includes a quiz for identifying certain herbs.
The post discusses the variety of citrus fruits and their differing levels of Vitamin C. It highlights that beyond oranges, lemons, and limes, there are less common but flavorful varieties suitable for juices, cocktails, jams, and pickles. It encourages an exploration and comparison of favorite citrus varieties.
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