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Home Gardening

All articles tagged with #home gardening

Pocket Mulberries: How to Grow Fruit in Pots in a Tiny Space
gardening1 day ago

Pocket Mulberries: How to Grow Fruit in Pots in a Tiny Space

Mulberries can be grown in pots in even the smallest spaces by choosing a large container (12–20 inches wide), placing it in a sunny spot (at least six hours of direct sun), and ensuring excellent drainage with grit or perlite. Fill with an all-purpose potting mix enriched with organic matter, and feed regularly—about every three weeks in spring and summer with a fertilizer suitable for fruit trees or a slow-release option—then pause in late summer. Water deeply, especially in hot spells, and provide winter protection for potted trees. For container culture, pick dwarf varieties such as Morus alba x rubra 'Gerardi Dwarf', Matsunaga, and Mojo Berry; other compact options include Morus nigra 'Black Beauty' and Morus alba 'Pendula'. Note that fruiting may take five or more years, but the setup adds edible harvest and architectural interest to balconies and tiny yards.

"Unveiling the GMO Purple Tomato: A Must-Have for Home Gardeners"
gardening2 years ago

"Unveiling the GMO Purple Tomato: A Must-Have for Home Gardeners"

Home gardeners can look forward to growing a new variety of tomato this summer: the Purple Tomato, a genetically modified organism developed by Norfolk Plant Sciences. These cherry tomatoes carry purple color genes from a snapdragon flower, resulting in high levels of anthocyanins, which have potential health benefits. The Purple Tomato aims to challenge public perceptions of GMOs and is described as having a rich and savory taste. Seeds are available for purchase, offering the opportunity to add a colorful and flavorful addition to summer salads.

"Home Gardeners Can Now Grow Genetically Modified Purple Tomatoes"
science-and-technology2 years ago

"Home Gardeners Can Now Grow Genetically Modified Purple Tomatoes"

Norfolk Plant Sciences has developed a genetically modified Purple Tomato, containing high levels of anthocyanin, a health-promoting compound from snapdragon DNA, and is now available for home gardeners to grow from seed. The company aims to change perceptions of GMO foods by marketing directly to consumers, highlighting the benefits of biotechnology for taste and nutrition. The trend for nutrient-dense GMOs, like the Purple Tomato, reflects a shift towards biofortified foods. However, traditional breeding methods have also produced tomatoes with enhanced nutritional benefits, raising questions about the acceptance and future of GMO crops.

"The World's Healthiest Food: Grow it Yourself, No Garden Needed"
health-and-wellness2 years ago

"The World's Healthiest Food: Grow it Yourself, No Garden Needed"

Watercress has been officially named the healthiest food in the world, surpassing other popular superfoods like goji berries and açaí. Researchers found that watercress is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent immune booster and a natural cough suppressant. It contains more Vitamin C than oranges and lemons and is rich in iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. However, consuming excessive amounts of watercress can cause irritation, so it is best enjoyed in moderation as a side dish or topping. The herb can be easily grown at home, even without a garden, as long as the soil is kept moist.

Maximizing Vegetable Growth and Preventing Plant Extinction
food-and-agriculture2 years ago

Maximizing Vegetable Growth and Preventing Plant Extinction

The US government's seed bank program, which offers free seeds to anyone, is not allowed to be used for food cultivation due to an amendment to the 1990 Farm Bill. The program is reserved for corporate development and innovation, leaving home gardeners with limited options for growing vegetables. However, with rising food prices and a need for food diversity, there is a call for hyper-local initiatives in the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill to support home gardeners and diversify the food supply.