To successfully grow plants from an encyclopedia, it's vital to understand the specific language of agronomists. Often, variety descriptions contain words that determine the fate of a sapling: whether it will perish in its first year or become a garden highlight. In this handbook, we have collected fundamental terms that we will refer to in our articles.
Insolation
Insolation is the amount of sunlight reaching a specific area of the garden. In encyclopedias, this term refers to the lighting intensity required for full photosynthesis.
If the description states 'high insolation,' the plant needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sun. 'Dappled insolation' implies light filtering through the lacy canopy of trees.
Important Clarification: Soil pH
pH (hydrogen index) is a measure of soil acidity. The scale ranges from 1 to 14. Most plants prefer slightly acidic or neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). However, ericaceous plants (hydrangeas, blueberries) require an acidic environment (pH 4.0–5.0). Without pH correction, roots simply cannot absorb fertilizers.
Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a condition where leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green (or vice-versa). This is a signal that the plant cannot produce chlorophyll. Most often, chlorosis is caused by iron or magnesium deficiency due to improper soil pH.
Causes of Chlorosis:
Stratification
Stratification is the imitation of a winter period for seeds. Many perennials (lavender, roses, primroses) need to 'freeze' in a moist environment to trigger growth hormones. Without this process, seeds can lie in the ground for years without germinating.
Methods of Stratification:
- Cold (in a refrigerator at +1...+5°C);
- Warm (for seeds with an underdeveloped embryo);
- Combined (alternating heat and cold).
Habitus
Habitus is the outward appearance of a plant, its natural form (height, width, branch growth direction). In an encyclopedia, knowing the habitus helps you understand what a shrub will look like in 10 years and how much space it needs at planting.
Always consider the habitus of a mature plant, not the sapling in the pot. Remember that pruning can restrain growth but cannot fundamentally change the natural habitus.
Mulching
Mulching is covering the soil surface with a protective layer (bark, peat, gravel, straw). This is an imitation of the forest floor, which solves three problems at once: conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects roots from overheating.
Types of Mulch in Gardening:
Knowledge of these basic terms turns gardening from a lottery into a predictable process. Refer back to this handbook whenever you encounter an unfamiliar word in plant descriptions to ensure your garden stays healthy.
