Horticulturist:
Scientists who use a variety of tools to study plants from fruits, vegetables, and flowers to ornamentals. Horticulturists may focus on a variety of issues, from fruit yield to appearance to the ability to endure cold or drought. They are interested in everything from plant genetics to breeding to aesthetics and may work everywhere from greenhouses to gardens to parks.
Intercrop:
A crop which is grown with another crop but matures at a different rate.
Crown:
The plant crown is where the stem meets the roots. Most crowns are planted at soil level or a little above ground level. Burying the crown below the soil can lead to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Damping-off:
Rotting of seedlings and cuttings caused by any of several fungi; a fungal attack near the soil line that cases cuttings or emerged seedlings to fall over and die.
Microclimate:
Climate within a given area that is different from the surrounding vicinity. A variety of conditions influencing microclimates include sun, shade, humidity, wind, drainage, hills, valleys, woodlands, hollows, structures, water proximity, and other factors.
Mulch:
A thick, organic matter (leaves, straw, bark, wood chips, and more) placed over soil to suppress weeds, prevent moisture evaporation, maintain soil temperature, and keep roots from freezing.
Compost:
A blend of decayed, organic material such as manure and vegetation used to fertilize or improve the soil’s structure with rich nutrients.
Deciduous:
Trees or shrubs (usually evergreens) that lose their leaves in the fall.
Evergreen:
Plants that keep their leaves or needles year round, but lose some.
Ornamental:
Plants grown mostly for their beautiful foliage or flowers, not consumption.
Native:
Plants that will grow in the same habitat from which they originated that can include a continent, state, or region.
Vegetable:
A plant that has edible leaves or stems.
Annual:
Plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season.
Biennial:
Plants that live for two years, producing flowers and/or fruit in their second year from seed.
Perennial:
Plants that live for more than one growing season, three years or more under normal conditions.
Every Friday for the past year, I have shared poetic verses and spiritual inspirations called “Budding Garden Thoughts.” This year, I’m excited to announce “Soulful Plotting” in its place. This too will be short and simple, but will address garden terminology as a useful glossary of garden related information.
Look for “Soulful Plotting” (and the photo of my garden shoes) beginning Friday, January 7.
Thank you for your support this past year.
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In and Around the Garden 