Rose Rosette Disease

Rose rosette disease is an untreatable rose disease caused by the Rose rosette virus (RRV), and is spread and introduced into the rose during feeding by the rose leaf curl mite (Phyllocoptes fructiplilus). This extremely small eriophyid mite feeds on cell sap of the tender stems and leaf petioles. The rose leaf curl mite alone causes little damage while feeding, but if it is a carrier of RRV, symptoms begin to appear in the rose typically within one to three months.

Roses exhibit reddened terminal growth on infected branches, and the stems become thicker and more succulent than those on unaffected parts of the plant. These stems exhibit an abnormally high number of pliable thorns, which may be either green or red. Rose leaves that develop on infected branches are smaller than normal and may be deformed similarly to herbicide injury by 2,4-D. Lateral branches may grow excessively from main stems and create a witch’s broom symptom quite like glyphosate (Roundup™) injury on roses. Flowering is reduced, and the petals may be distorted and fewer in number.

Rose with Rose Rosette Disease showing symptoms of  reddened new growth, thicker stem, excessive thorns, and smaller leaves.
Meg Williamson, Plant Problem Clinic, Clemson University

These symptoms generally become evident in the late spring to early summer and progress during the growing season. Once the rose becomes infected, RRV moves throughout the plant and the entire plant is infectious. By the time symptoms are evident in a rose, it already may have spread to adjacent plants by the movement of the eriophyid mites. Infected plants typically die within a couple of years.

Prevention & Treatment: The wild multiflora rose is very susceptible to the rose rosette disease, so any nearby wild plants should be removed and promptly disposed. Any infected, cultivated roses should be immediately removed, then burned or bagged. Also remove any roots, which might re-sprout later. Do not leave an uprooted infected plant in the garden, as the mites may leave this rose for other nearby plants. Always space rose plants so they do not touch.

Because RRV is systemic within the infected rose plants, grafting asymptomatic stems onto other rose plants will transmit the virus. Pruners used on diseased plants must be disinfested with rubbing alcohol or a dilute bleach solution before being used on uninfected plants, as sap on the pruners is contaminated with the virus.

To reduce the spread of the eriophyid mites from the site of an infected rose, nearby roses can be treated with a bifenthrin spray every two weeks between April and September. This may prevent additional plants from becoming diseased. Examples of products containing bifenthrin are Hi-Yield Bug Blaster Bifenthrin 2.4 Concentrate or Ready-to-Spray, Hi-Yield Bug Blaster II Turf Termite & Ornamental Insect Control Concentrate, and Ortho Bug-B-Gon Max Lawn & Garden Insect Killer Concentrate. Check product labels for the correct active ingredient. Follow label directions for use.

10 tips for companion planting for natural pest control and organic sustainability

Companion planting for pest control and to encourage plants to grow with more vigor has fascinated men for centuries; however, few backyard gardeners know how to use these natural methods for organic sustainability and how to improve your garden. Plants that work together to help one another grow; plants that repel insects for organic pest management; and plants that repel other plants for natural herbicide control are of great value to both small backyard gardeners and commercial growers.
Certain protective botanicals don’t always act instantaneously, and must be planted several years or seasons in advance to be of utmost cumulative effect. For example, companion planting pest control using marigolds to prevent nematode growth should be done at least one season ahead before expecting to see great results.

It’s important to remember that both secretions and odors from various plants are valuable traits for organic pest control and companion planting where repelling or attracting certain aspects and effects is attempted.

Ten easy companion planting tips for to use now

Companion planting for chemical free pesticides and organic sustainability is a huge subject that can take years to master; however, there are a few easy things you can do in your own garden right now to make use of this intriguing method of gardening.

1. Protect carrots by planting them with leeks to repel both carrot and onion flies. They won’t even lay their eggs and your yield will increase tremendously.

2. Growing radishes or kohlrabi? Plant them with lettuce to repel earth flies that hate the smell of lettuce and make them take flight.

3. Aphids will injure almost all plants, causing headaches for gardeners everywhere. To repel aphids, plant nasturiums around broccoli and bunches of chives among sunflowers and tomatoes to discourage infestations.

4. Ladybugs are natural enemies to aphids and are excellent for use in organic pest management. Order ladybugs in bulk online or buy them from gardening centers. If you’re wondering how to improve your garden and reduce the aphid population, this is one of the most effective methods of doing so.

5. Asparagus and tomatoes complement one another and improve the vigor of both plants. Place a row of asparagus between two rows of tomato plants.

6. Beans and potatoes work in concert for organic pest control. Planting bush beans with potatoes in alternating rows protects the spuds from the Colorado potato beetle and the beans from the Mexican bean beetle.

7. Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables belonging to the cabbage family do well when companion planted with celery, dill, peppermint, sage and rosemary; as well as potatoes, onions and beets.

8. Repel moles around a vegetable garden with a border of castor beans; mice with a border of daffodils; and yarrow makes a wonderful boarder for an herb garden as it encourages the growth of essential oils in the herbs.

9. Remember that companion planting for pest control includes keeping those cute little rabbits out of the garden. Onions repel rabbits and can be inter-planted with peas, beans, lettuce and cabbage.

10. If your garden attracts raccoons, plant corn and pumpkins together so that the large pumpkin leaves grow around the base of the corn stalks. Cayenne pepper sprinkled on the corn silk will also act as a deterrent.

Because some plants are poisonous, it’s important to keep unattended young children away from the garden. Natural organic pest control may be a complex subject; however, there are many simple things you can do in to improve your garden for increased vegetable yield and organic sustainability.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.ghorganics.com/page2.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Companion_planting

http://www.seedsofchange.com

http://www.no-dig-vegetablegarden.com/companion-planting.html

Riotte, Louise. Carrots Love Tomatoes. Charlotte: Garden Way Publishing, 1975

Mayer, Dale. The Complete Guide to Companion Planting: Everything You Need to Know to Make Your Garden Successful (Back-To-Basics Gardening). OcalaL: Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc., 2010

About the author:
READ MORE OF JEAN (JB) BARDOT’S ARTICLES AT THE FOLLOWING LINKS:

The JB Bardot Archives: www.jbbardot.com
Natural News: http://www.naturalnews.com/Author1686.html

JB Bardot is an herbalist and a classical homeopath, and has a post graduate degree in holistic nutrition. Bardot cares for both people and animals, using alternative approaches to health care and lifestyle. She writes about wellness, green living, alternative medicine, holistic nutrition, homeopathy, herbs and naturopathic medicine. You can find her at The JB Bardot Archives at www.jbbardot.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jbbardot23 or on Twitter at jbbardot23 or https://twitter.com/jbbardot23

Source of Article is Natural News, article published for only information purpose.

What is organic gardening?

Organic gardening is not just a matter of replacing chemicals such as artificial fertilizers and pesticides with more natural products, as it is often simplistically described. There is a great deal more to it than that, in both theory and practice.

Basic principles
The organic approach recognizes the marvelous complexity of our living world; the detailed and intricate ways in which all living organisms are interconnected. It aims to work within this delicate  framework, in harmony with nature.Feeding the soil
Conventional fertilizers are generally soluble, their ingredients directly available to plants. The organic way, on the other hand, relies on soil-dwelling creatures to make food available to plants.
Unbelievable as it may sound, a single teaspoonful of fertile soil can contain more bacteria and fungi than the number of humans living on the planet. These microorganisms, which are invisible to  the naked eye, break down compost, manure, and other organic materials that are added to the soil, to provide a steady supply of nutrients for plants to take up. Their activities also help to improve soil structure. soil fed in this way tends to produce healthier plants that are better able to withstand attack from pests and diseases, or have a much better chance of recovery.
Natural pest control all creatures, whatever their size, risk attack by pests and diseases. They are part of a great food chain. Ladybugs prey on aphids, robins eat Japanese beetles, and toads devour slugs, as an organic gardener, you can capitalize on the situation by  creating the right conditions to attract these unpaid pest  controllers—the gardener’s friends. There are other strategies in  the organic cupboard, too barriers and traps, pest- and disease resistant plant varieties, companion planting, and crop rotation all provide realistic alternatives to the use of pesticides.

Managing weeds
Weeds can be a valuable resource as a compost ingredient or food for wildlife, but they can also smother plants, compete for food and water, and spoil the look of a path or border. organic
gardeners don’t use weed killing sprays, but there are plenty of effective alternatives, both for clearing ground and for keeping weeds under control: hoeing, mulching, cultivation, hand-weeding,
and the use of heat in the form of flame or infrared burners.

Conservation and the environment
By taking a holistic approach to the use of finite resources and by minimizing impact on the environment, organic growing makes a positive contribution toward creating a sustainable future for
all life on earth. This means recycling and reusing, instead of dumping or burning or buying new; providing habitats where wildlife can flourish; and avoiding the use of non reusable
resources. It also involves choosing locally available materials, rather than those transported over long distances.

Welfare considerations
Animal welfare is an important element of organic farming. There is no place in the organic philosophy for factory farming, such as battery and broiler hen houses or intensive feedlots. as a logical
extension, organic gardeners do not use by-products—such as manure—from intensive agriculture. There is concern for people, too—standards governing the trade in organic food are gradually
converging with those concerned with “fair trade,” to provide better livelihoods for those employed in farming, particularly in developing countries.
The use of animal manures is an integral part of most organic farming systems, but it is quite possible to garden without using any products of animal origin if you prefer. garden compost, leguminous green manures, leaf mold, and plant-based fertilizers are all “animal-free” organic gardening ingredients.

Organic Growing for the Environment

The Earth’s population continues to grow, but the amount of land available for growing food is disappearing rapidly. Erosion, development, pollution, dwindling water supplies, and other human-induced and natural disruptions  threaten safe food and water supplies. Plant and animal species continue to disappear at alarming rates as humans damage and encroach on their habitats.
Many gardeners work to improve this grim picture by making personal choices that, at the very least, do as little harm to the environment as possible. The way you choose to grow flowers and food and to maintain the landscape can actually improve the quality of the soil, air, and water, as well as the lives of the organisms that depend on them.

Protecting wildlife
Organic gardeners strive to maintain a balanced ecosystem in which all creatures, even garden pests, play a role. They rely on nontoxic techniques, such as row covers and repellents, to manage pests, not eradicate them. By allowing the presence of some pests, organic gardeners encourage the pests’ natural predators to take up residence. And when pests and predators are in balance, everyone wins.
Sometimes, even organic gardeners may choose to use pesticides as a last resort. When they do, they keep in mind that, while pesticides kill pests, they can harm innocent bystanders as well. When possible, organic gardeners choose products that affect only the pest they’re trying to control.
Most organic pesticides break down quickly into harmless substances once they’re exposed to air, sunlight, and/or water. Many synthetic pesticides, on the other hand, are formulated to keep working — killing — long after the need is passed. These long-lasting pesticides not only continue killing pests, they can also accumulate in the bodies of animals, harming them over a long period. In the case of the infamous DDT, which was banned in the United States in 1972, the chemical accumulated in fish, rodents, and other animals. When predators such as hawks and eagles ate those animals, they accumulated increasingly larger quantities of DDT, too. As a result, they laid eggs with thin shells that broke before they hatched, destroying generations of birds and sending many species to the brink of extinction. Even today, tens of millions of birds are killed each year as a result of pesticide use.

Helping pollinators
Pollination occurs when pollen is moved within flowers or from one flower to another of the same species, leading to fertilization and successful seed and fruit production. Some plants, like corn, are pollinated by wind. However, nearly 80 percent of the world’s crop plants, including alfalfa, apples, blueberries, cotton, and melons, depend on insects or other pollinators to transfer their pollen. According to the North American Pollinator Protection campaign, 30 percent of the foods we eat require the presence of a pollinating insect.Although concern for the welfare of pollinating insects has been growing among scientists for decades, it wasn’t until a crisis dubbed Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) caught the media’s attention that the general public took notice. During the winter of 2006 2007, U.S. beekeepers reported losses of 50 percent to 90 percent of their hives. Researchers are still trying to determine the cause, but many think that a combination of disease-related and environmental factors may be involved.Whatever the cause, CCD has awakened us to our utter dependence on the honeybee — a non-native species that was brought here from Europe by  early settlers. Before that, plants relied on native pollinators, such as solitary bees, bumblebees, wasps, butterflies, and beetles. Unfortunately, the  populations of these native pollinators have dwindled, due at least in part  to pesticide use.
Using organic growing practices can help reverse this trend. By growing diverse plants, choosing plants specifically to attract and feed pollinators, and minimizing pesticide use, home gardeners can play an important role in increasing the populations of pollinating insects.

Organic Growing for the Environment

The Earth’s population continues to grow, but the amount of land available for growing food is disappearing rapidly. Erosion, development, pollution, dwindling water supplies, and other human-induced and natural disruptions  threaten safe food and water supplies. Plant and animal species continue to disappear at alarming rates as humans damage and encroach on their habitats.
Many gardeners work to improve this grim picture by making personal choices that, at the very least, do as little harm to the environment as possible. The way you choose to grow flowers and food and to maintain the landscape can actually improve the quality of the soil, air, and water, as well as the lives of the organisms that depend on them.

Protecting wildlife
Organic gardeners strive to maintain a balanced ecosystem in which all creatures, even garden pests, play a role. They rely on nontoxic techniques, such as row covers and repellents, to manage pests, not eradicate them. By allowing the presence of some pests, organic gardeners encourage the pests’ natural predators to take up residence. And when pests and predators are in balance, everyone wins.
Sometimes, even organic gardeners may choose to use pesticides as a last resort. When they do, they keep in mind that, while pesticides kill pests, they can harm innocent bystanders as well. When possible, organic gardeners choose products that affect only the pest they’re trying to control.
Most organic pesticides break down quickly into harmless substances once they’re exposed to air, sunlight, and/or water. Many synthetic pesticides, on the other hand, are formulated to keep working — killing — long after the need is passed. These long-lasting pesticides not only continue killing pests, they can also accumulate in the bodies of animals, harming them over a long period. In the case of the infamous DDT, which was banned in the United States in 1972, the chemical accumulated in fish, rodents, and other animals. When predators such as hawks and eagles ate those animals, they accumulated increasingly larger quantities of DDT, too. As a result, they laid eggs with thin shells that broke before they hatched, destroying generations of birds and sending many species to the brink of extinction. Even today, tens of millions of birds are killed each year as a result of pesticide use.

Helping pollinators
Pollination occurs when pollen is moved within flowers or from one flower to another of the same species, leading to fertilization and successful seed and fruit production. Some plants, like corn, are pollinated by wind. However, nearly 80 percent of the world’s crop plants, including alfalfa, apples, blueberries, cotton, and melons, depend on insects or other pollinators to transfer their pollen. According to the North American Pollinator Protection campaign, 30 percent of the foods we eat require the presence of a pollinating insect.Although concern for the welfare of pollinating insects has been growing among scientists for decades, it wasn’t until a crisis dubbed Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) caught the media’s attention that the general public took notice. During the winter of 2006 2007, U.S. beekeepers reported losses of 50 percent to 90 percent of their hives. Researchers are still trying to determine the cause, but many think that a combination of disease-related and environmental factors may be involved.Whatever the cause, CCD has awakened us to our utter dependence on the honeybee — a non-native species that was brought here from Europe by  early settlers. Before that, plants relied on native pollinators, such as solitary bees, bumblebees, wasps, butterflies, and beetles. Unfortunately, the  populations of these native pollinators have dwindled, due at least in part  to pesticide use.
Using organic growing practices can help reverse this trend. By growing diverse plants, choosing plants specifically to attract and feed pollinators, and minimizing pesticide use, home gardeners can play an important role in increasing the populations of pollinating insects.

U-Bar Dig

G1. After harvest, if necessary, weed the entire slightly raised bed.
2. When the soil is lightly moist, begin U-barring the soil along the length of the bed. No digging board is used. The soil will be loosened 3⁄4 as deep as in the double-dig.
3. Continue U-barring until the bed is done. Two or three U-bar passes along the length of the bed may be necessary epending on the bed’s width. The U-bar is about 2 feet wide and loosens the soil 2 to 2 1⁄2 feet wide.
4. Break up any remaining large clumps with a spading fork. Shape the bed by raking it. Then evenly spread compost and any needed fertilizers over the entire area, and sift them in 2 to 4 inches deep with a spading fork.

Gardening: Out with the old, in with the new

Zahrah Nasir

Good grief! December again and I, for one, am wondering where the year flew away to — the seasons didn’t merely stroll by this year, they raced at record breaking speed and it’s time for us to take a look at what to do in the garden during this month of out with the old and, when it ends, in with the new.

Let’s take a look at the ‘outs’ first: Top of the list is something that many of you consider to be a labour of love and which I view as being criminally insane. Here … I’m having yet another ‘go’ at those abominations known as ‘lush green lawns’ which, in the face of escalating malnutrition — something like 60 per cent of our population is struggling to exist and feed themselves way below the poverty line and, needless to say, they aren’t managing very well at all — along with ever escalating inflation, surely it is wrong to lavish time, inputs, labour, water — water is another mote point — and money on something which could, and should, be put to productive use. Lawns are a luxury that the world, especially Pakistan where climate change is hitting hard, can no longer afford; so do something about them — please!

I accept that some of you, perhaps all, will find this ‘suggestion’ repugnant but take a look, a long hard look, at the faces you pass by in the streets and, if you look hard enough, you will see that there is hunger everywhere and that to party — if you do — on a ridiculously expensive lawn, solves nothing but further exacerbates the dreadful situation.

You do not have to rip out every single blade of grass — although I would much prefer it if you did — but do, at the very least, plant fruit trees here and there and, out of sight of your drawing room window if you must, then create a vegetable and herb garden. If you don’t want to eat the produce yourself or have too much of something all at once, instead of dishing it out to friends and relatives who do not really need it, hand it out to the poor, donate it to an orphanage or simply haul it off to the nearest ‘squatter camp’ and donate it there.

Now, having got that little lecture off my shoulders, let’s move on to other gardening matters be these edible or not but, naturally, we will begin with edible varieties.

This is the perfect time for planting fruit trees of all kinds, including the ‘bare-rooted ones which will be available in nurseries any day now and, mostly, at a reasonably low cost: Please keep in mind that dwarf or naturally small-sized fruiting trees and bushes, Chinese lemons and falsa being good examples, are perfectly at home in large clay pots or other containers which can be placed here and there in the garden, on terraces, on balconies and on rooftops where, if given adequate protection from wind and burning sun, they will thrive.

If you haven’t done so already, and even if you have, then think ahead to ‘follow on’ crops; sow seeds for cabbages, cauliflower, spinach, leaf beet/Swiss chard, spring onions, potatoes, lettuce, tomatoes, beetroot, carrots, etc. There is still time to put in some last minute peas, beans, lots of Chinese and Japanese salad greens and plenty of annual herbs many of which, especially the latter, thrive in pots.

If you have seedlings ready for transplanting into their final growing position then get this done as soon as possible; this will give them time to get very well established before there is a hint of ‘heat’ in the air during early spring. After transplanting according to variety, give them a nice, gentle watering in — in the evening not during the day when the sun is up even if the temperatures are cool. Evening watering is the best method all year round and a good habit to form.

Keep on top of weeding — although weeds are slower to make a takeover bid in the cooler weather. As long as the weeds, these are nothing more than out of place plants and many of them are perfectly edible (check with an expert before putting them anywhere near your mouth please), have not yet formed seed and are free of disease then you can put into the compost bin or, failing that, use them in mulch.

In the flower garden, or pots/containers, then you can still sow nasturtiums — although these are really herbs — and lots of them as they add a wonderful blaze of lasting colour to the drabbest of surroundings. You can also sow things such as larkspur, Virginia stock, cosmos and other fast growing annuals, plus, this is the perfect weather for spending an afternoon — or six — browsing through all of your local nurseries to see what they have in stock and, I guarantee, you will return home with far more than you bargained for!

This month is also the right time to prune back and generally tidy up your grape vines, passion flowers and other climbers, ramblers and creepers. Myself I am tackling the thick growth of variegated ivy which annually threatens to completely take over the front of the house: I do allow it to half cover a bedroom window for the summer so that only cool, greenish, filtered light comes through rather than blazing sunshine but, in the winter cold sun — as much as possible — is preferred. A point for you to ponder here: Growing climbers over your windows for the summer months in, for example Karachi, will reduce room temperature and lessen your electricity bills. Think of it!

Also, remember to keep on composting, mulching and brewing up organic plant food of all kinds as soil health is the backbone of every single garden on the planet.

Please continue sending your gardening queries to zahrahnasir@hotmail.com. Remember to include your location. The writer will not respond directly by e-mail. E-mails with attachments will not be opened.

Original Article Click Here

The organic way: an introduction

organic methods allow you to create any garden you want. in times of growing concern about environmental damage and climate change, they provide practical and effective solutions for managing any planted space.
	From food to flowers Their concern was, in particular, for healthy food production, and it is in the area of food production that organic growing is most advanced. But organic methods are not just for the fruit and vegetable patch. they can be applied to all areas of the yard, from lawns to shrubs to windowsills.
The future is organicthe last decade has seen a phenomenal rise in interest in all things organic. the organic movement—for a long time an energetic, committed, active, but relatively small group of enthusiasts—has really come of age. organic food is widely available both in supermarkets and in specialty stores; many governments are supporting organic farming and research; and more and more people are turning to organic methods of gardening.
	Every time there is another food scare, or the dangers of another pesticide come to light, more people turn to eating, and growing, organically. As the effects of climate change become more obvious, and we are encouraged to reduce our “carbon footprint,” organic gardening offers practical ways in which we can do this in the garden.

Gardening Talk: Mixing shapes and sizes

Groups of containers made from different materials and in different shapes and sizes are ideal for a relaxed flower-filled space where a natural look is required. Add movement, scale, and a sense of perspective by grouping planters by height, or raise your game and create a collection on a table, bench, or even an old ladder, using the rungs as a theater to show off the plants. Mixed pots tend to look unbalanced when arranged in a row, so try a more staggered display instead. Also include a few similar elements to unify your collection, such as pot and plant colors, foliage shapes, or a pebble mulch.

Gardening Talk: Perfect partners

Combining pots and plants to create a balanced display is often a case of trial and error. Those with less experience may find it easier to opt for a collection  of containers made from the same material, which will make a harmonious  design for a formal or modern garden. A random group of pots in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials is ideal for an English style garden or informal space. Either set your pots out in height order in a formal fashion, or in a looser  way to produce a more relaxed display.

A uniform group of plants growing in pots made from the same material can be a highly effective way of creating a focal point on a patio or terrace. For contemporary gardens, choose containers in colors and a design or finish that echoes your interior decoration to create a seamless flow from inside to out, or throw caution to the wind and use pots that contrast with your décor to create colorful punctuation points. Give a sense of unity to your design by placing similar containers throughout your space to help draw the eye from one part of the garden to another. Alternatively, set identical plants and containers in a row to divide or enclose a patio, or to frame a feature or gateway. Tall, elegant containers work well in this context and ensure the materials complement your garden style.

Gardening Tip of the day

Annual flowers live only one growing season, during which they grow, flower, and produce seed, thereby completing their life cycle. Annuals must be set out or seeded every year since they don't persist.

Gardening tip of the day is joint effort of My Kitchen Garden Project | Pakistan and agrinfobank.com

If you have any gardening related problems feel free to send us your gardening problem at gardening@agrinfobank.com or salma@agrinfobank.com

Gardening Tip of the day

Brussels sprouts seeds are now available in all leading seed  stores in Pakistan. Brussels sprouts are grown for harvest in the fall because cool weather during maturity is essential for good flavor and quality. Brussels sprouts are tall  erect biennials that are grown as annuals. The sprouts develop in the leaf axils and mature along the stalk. The lowest sprouts mature first and should be harvested when firm, l 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter.

If you have any gardening related problem send us your problem at gardening@agrinfobank.com or salma@agrinfobank.com

Gardening Tip of the Day

Mice can be quite a nuisance in the garden and home.  Mice live near humans. Though it's probably impossible to get rid of every single mouse, you need to keep them under control before they chew your garden and house apart. Mice are know to eat away  seeds sown vegetable and fruits in garden.

if you have any gardening problem, feel free to send us your problem at gardening@agrinfobank.com or salma@agrinfobank.com

Kitchen gardening: training workshop held

Punjab Agriculture & Meat Company and Pak Business Express conducted Kitchen gardening training workshop at Railway Station Lahore here on Saturday to educate the households regarding cultivation of vegetables at homes. PAMCO Horticulturist Muhammad Imran delivered presentation and on hand training on the occasion.

News Source: Business Recorder    News Collected: agrinfobank.com Team

Gardening Tip of the Day

If you are a beginner, start off small and with easier vegetables. Stick with these easier to grow vegetables, and with the right care, you'll be successful. Tomatoes, Cabbage, Green bean, Green onions, Peas, turnip, Coriander, Spinach.

If you have any gardening related Problems send us your gardening problems at gardening@agrinfobank.com or salma@agrinfobank.com

Gardening Talk: Soil Preparation

Begin soil preparation by removing old plant supports, plastic mulches, excessive vegetative residues and other debris from the garden area several weeks before planting to allow the soil to dry out. The amount of plant residue that may be turned under depends on how large the pieces are, how the garden will be turned and how long before the area will be worked.

If there’s no already-prepared-for-planting soil in your backyard, then you should do it yourself. If you know nothing about its quality, you have two options: buying a home testing kit, or sending a sample to your local agricultural extension office. You will get all the necessary data about the soil for low cost, and you’ll get detailed information about the nutrients that the soil needs.

Long cucumber or tomato vines, for example, may be spaded or plowed under but may tangle on the tines of a rototiller. Cover crops and thick mulch or crop residue should be turned under six weeks or more before planting. This will promote decay and reduce nutritional and insect and disease problems in the garden. Adding three pounds of ammonium nitrate per 1000 square feet of soil surface before turning organic materials under will speed decay considerably.
Turning under significant amounts (an inch or more) of plant materials such as compost, organic mulches, leaves or cover crops annually will gradually increase soil organic matter content and improve most garden soils. The moisture-holding capacity will improve, as will the soil structure and nutrient-holding capability. Root penetration will improve on clay soils and soil crusting will be reduced.
Garden soil should not be worked when it is too wet. Pick up a handful of soil and roll it into a ball. If the soil sticks together and does not crumble when dropped, it is too wet to work. Soil worked too wet forms large, hard clods which are difficult to break up and are completely unsuitable for a seedbed.

Soil should be worked to a depth of at least 6 or 7 inches and smoothed before planting. Seed should be planted only in moist, finely aggregated soil. Soils worked into a powdery condition are more likely to crust. Small seed planted in cloddy soil usually dry out and germinate poorly. Garden soil may be worked with farm equipment, a rototiller or spaded with a shovel.
Copyright © agrinfobank.com

Considering Culinary Herbs

Before the advent of refrigeration, herbs with antibacterial properties, including garlic, oregano, and thyme, were enlisted to help preserve foods that had to be stored for use during times of scarcity, such as in midwinter when fresh  foods were hard to come by. These and other herbs and spices with strong  lavors and aromas were also used to mask the tastes and smells of foods that were beginning to go rancid, making them more palatable.Now that we can control the temperature in our refrigerator with the turn of a dial, most of us enjoy herbs for the way they enhance the flavor and coloring of food and drink. Most recipes contain one or more ingredients purely for aesthetics — better taste, more attractive presentation. What would pickles be without dill, or pesto without basil?Purists use the word herbto refer to plants grown for their leaves and stems; spicesare those cultivated for their flowers, seeds, bark, wood, resin, and roots. You also may come across the word potherb.That’s an old term that refers to vegetables and herbs used in salads, soups, and stews. For our purposes, spicesare culinary herbs.

Seminar on kitchen gardening held

Islamabad,  Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) in collaboration with Punjab Directorate of Agriculture Information organized a seminar on Kitchen Gardening here on Monday to promote the growing of fresh vegetables & fruits at economical rate through kitchen gardening.

On the occasion, PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmad, Member Provincial Assembly Punjab Engineer Qamar-U-zman, Director Punjab Agriculture Information Muhammad Rafiq Akhtar, Project Director Fruit & Vegetable Muhammad Asif, faculty members and large number of students were also present.

On the occasion, chief guest Prof. Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, PMAS-AAUR, said that University would tender full support for promotion of kitchen gardening and stressed the need to grow vegetables at home for ensuring healthy life.

PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor appreciated the Chief Minister Punjab Mian Shahbaz Shareef vision and said that the Punjab government s Kitchen Gardening program is a purposeful and productive program which should be promoted as it will help in reducing kitchen expenditures and pollution besides making homes good looking and green for healthy environment.

Member Provincial Assembly Punjab Engineer Qamar-U-zman, in his address, talked about the scope and importance of kitchen gardening and said it is need of the hour for the household food security, balance and proper nutrition and safe environment. He stressed the need for taking full benefit of the program as it would prove healthy activity, especially for ladies and old age people besides help to reduce your kitchen expenditures.

While addressing on the occasion, speakers stressed for promotion of kitchen gardening to resolve the issues of public health and improving the lives of the masses. They highlighted the importance of sowing vegetable at domestic level and its economic and health benefits.

They informed the gathering that vegetables grown at home are free of any sort of poison of fertilizer while it also helps cutting the domestic budget. They were of the views that it s time to create awareness amongst the masses about kitchen gardening and its production technology.

Speakers gave multi-media presentation on introduction, objectives and goals of the Kitchen Gardening and emphasized on implementation of Kitchen Gardening at all levels of community to bring a healthy change in society through food . They gave awareness about sowing, growing and cultivation of vegetables at home.

They also told about different types of gardening at home in which small areas can be utilized effectively. They also informed that that empty vessel, cartons, plastic bags and pots could be used for growing vegetables at home. A promotional stall of seeds was also arranged by the Punjab Agriculture Directorate of Information

Source: http://www.onepakistan.com.pk/

Pamco holds kitchen gardening training session

Punjab Agriculture and Meat Company (Pamco) has launched kitchen gardening training sessions for the housewives to grow vegetables at home under the project initiated by Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to promote kitchen gardening in the province. 

Pamco provided free training and hybrid seeds to women at Ladies Club Model Town where Pamco's horticulturist provided free of cost training to women who participated in this training programme. Pamco has planned to arrange training sessions in different areas of Lahore and also distributed hybrid seeds of seven different vegetables among participants.

Source: Business Recorder

Gardening with Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is a popular and well-reputed supplement in organic gardening. With the recent push towards “green” living, Epsom salt is an ideal answer to a variety of organic gardening needs. Both cost effective and gentle on your greenery, Epsom salt is an affordable and green treatment for your well-tended plants—both indoors and out.

Completely one-of-a-kind with a chemical structure unlike any other, Epsom salt (or Magnesium Sulfate) is one of the most economic and versatile salt-like substances in the world. Throughout time, Epsom salt has been known as a wonderful garden supplement, helping to create lush grass, full roses, and healthy, vibrant greenery. It has long been considered a planter’s “secret” ingredient to a lovely, lush garden, and is such a simple, affordable way to have a dramatic impact. Just as gourmet salt works with the ingredients in food to enhance and bring a meal to its full potential, Epsom salt enhances fertilizer and soil’s capabilities to bring a deeper level of vitality to your garden’s composition. Ultra Epsom Salt is the highest quality Epsom salt available, and is widely celebrated for its powerful benefits on natural life, ranging from household plants to shrubs, lawns and even trees. 

Why Epsom Salt Works in the Garden

Please note that not all Epsom salts are created equal. When using Epsom salt in gardening, it is strongly recommended that the highest quality Epsom salt available is utilized. Ultra Epsom Salt is the brand you can trust for your garden, lawn, plants and trees.

Composed almost exclusively of Magnesium Sulfate, Epsom salt is intensely rich in these two minerals that are both crucial to healthy plant life. These same minerals which are so beneficial for bathing and using around the house are also a wonderful facilitator to your garden, helping it reach its fullest potential and creating a lush and vibrant outdoor space. Unlike common fertilizers, Epsom Salt does not build up in the soil over time, so it is very safe to use.

Magnesium

Magnesium is beneficial to plants from the beginning of their life, right when the seed begins to develop. It assists with the process of seed germination; infusing the seed with this important mineral and helping to strengthen the plant cell walls, so that the plant can receive essential nutrients. Magnesium also plays a crucial role in photosynthesis by assisting with the creation of chlorophyll, used by plants to convert sunlight into food. In addition, it is a wonderful help in allowing the plant to soak up phosphorus and nitrogen, which serve as vital fertilizer components for the soil. Magnesium is believed to bring more flowers and fruit to your garden, increasing the bounty as well as the beauty of your space.

Sulfate

Sulfate, a mineral form of sulfur found in nature, is an equally important nutrient for plant life. Sulfate is essential to the health and longevity of plants, and aides in the production of chlorophyll. It joins with the soil to make key nutrients more effective for plants, including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Sulfate works in conjunction with Magnesium to create a “vitamin” full of minerals, nourishment and health benefits for your garden.

How to Use Epsom Salt in the Garden

Epsom Salt for Houseplants

Perhaps the most natural and easiest place to start with Ultra Epsom Salt is with the potted plants that are dispersed around your house and porch. Epsom salt is such a simple way to increase their blooming and health, and is something that you can include easily as a part of a normal routine. For potted plants, simply dissolve 2 tablespoons per gallon of water, and substitute this solution for normal watering at least once a month – although it is safe to do this as often as desired.

Adding this Epsom salt solution to houseplants that have been potted for a long time is especially useful, due in part to natural salt, which can build up in the soil and clog the root cells of the plant. Ultra Epsom Salt can help to clear up this accumulation of natural salts in the pot, and lead to a revival in the plant's health and vibrancy. It is also useful for a plant that has just been potted, as it will more easily receive the proper nutrients and have a healthy start in life. As general guidance, most plants need plenty of sun to receive the benefits of Ultra Epsom Salt (and photosynthesize), so be sure to keep typical houseplants in a sunny area of the home unless instructed otherwise. Using Ultra Epsom Salt with potted vegetable plants is a really wonderful idea as well, because it can increase the amount of fruit or vegetables you receive from the one plant. This is particularly beneficial to apartment dwellers and those with little or no personal yard space, as Ultra Epsom Salt can help you receive a large bounty within a confined space. A wonderful way to easily and effectively grow food!

First Planting with Epsom Salt

For setting up your garden and the initial planting stage, Ultra Epsom Salt is especially useful for getting a nourishing start. Prep your garden soil by sprinkling up to 1 cup of Ultra Epsom Salt per 100 square feet, and then work it into the soil before seeding or planting. This helps the seeds to germinate better, and start with a strong and healthy growth. It is also very beneficial for more mature plants that you are going to add to your garden, since the transition can be difficult for their growth and health.

Vegetable Gardens & Epsom Salt

For maintaining and creating a vegetable garden, Epsom salt can help you refresh and revitalize the garden you have already created—or create a healthy beginning to a new space. Ultra Epsom Salt is advised for use with all fruits, vegetables, and herbs (It is not advisable to use Epsom salt with the planting of sage—it is not beneficial for this particular plant). As previously mentioned, it does not cause build-up or any harm to plants when used, and so can be used safely and effectively during any stage of the plant’s life. For general purposes, Ultra Ep

Tomatoes & Epsom Salt

Tomatoes are prone to magnesium deficiency later in the growing season, and display this through yellow leaves and less production. They can greatly benefit from Ultra Epsom Salt treatments both at the beginning of their planting and throughout their seasonal life. When gardening, simply add one or two tablespoons per hole before planting the seeds or transplants. Then as the tomato matures, either work in one tablespoon of Ultra Epsom Salt per foot of plant height around the base of the tomato plant (individually), or create the tank sprayer solution mentioned above and use that every two weeks.

Peppers & Epsom Salt

Like tomatoes, peppers are also prone to magnesium deficiency and thrive much more fully with the use of Epsom salt. This can be done in the same way as tomatoes—through adding one or two tablespoons per hole before planting (for seeds and grown plants), and then twice a week based on the height of the plant (see above). A study conducted by the National Gardening Association discovered that four out of six home gardeners noticed that their Epsom salt-treated peppers were larger than those that were un-treated. Many gardeners credit their healthy, vibrant peppers and tomatoes to Epsom salt. This solution truly aides in the production level, aesthetic beauty and quality of the harvest produced.

Roses & Epsom Salt

Roses in particular can greatly benefit from Epsom salt, and it is said to make foliage greener, healthier and lead to more canes and roses. Start by soaking unplanted rose bushes in one half cup of Ultra Epsom Salt per gallon of water before planting, to help the roots get stronger and firmer. Then, when planting, add one tablespoon of Ultra Epsom Salt per hole before inserting the rose bush. After the roses are planted (and to boost already planted roses), make the liquid Ultra Epsom Salt solution listed above for either a tank sprayer or watering can, or simply work in one tablespoon of Ultra Epsom Salt per foot of plant (individually). Once during the beginning of the season, it is also advised to work one half cup of Ultra Epsom Salt into the base of the plant to encourage blooming canes and healthy basal cane development.

Shrubs & Epsom Salt

For flowering and green shrubs, particularly evergreens, azaleas and rhododendrons, Epsom salt can improve the blooming of the flowers and the vibrancy of the greenery. Simply work in one tablespoon of Ultra Epsom Salt per nine square feet of bush into the soil, over the root zone, which allows the shrubs to absorb the nutritional benefits. Repeat this every two to four weeks for optimal results.

som Salt works well as a saline solution for a tank sprayer. Simply fill your tank sprayer (commonly available at gardening and home improvement stores) with 1 tablespoon of Ultra Epsom Salt per gallon of water. Then spray your garden after the initial planting, later when it begins to grow (or after a month or so for transplants), and lastly when the vegetables begin to mature. It is believed that this practice will give you healthier vegetables, and a lush vegetable garden.

Source: