The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

• Will removing half the vegetable plant leaves when transplanting reduce transpiration and wilting? According to Illinois Extension, pruning transplants to reduce water loss is not a recommended practice. Although pruning may reduce the extent of wilting after setting out, it will also reduce the rate of new root growth. When a plant is transplanted, food energy stored in the old, large leaves will be transported downward to promote root growth. If these leaves are removed, root growth is delayed. Plants will almost always wilt somewhat after they are set into the garden or field. The wilted plant is not sick or dying but demonstrating a normal response to extreme water loss. A plant that wilts during the hottest part of the day usually will regain their normal shape in the evening. Transplanting on cloudy days or in the early evening will help reduce wilting.

• Is it a good practice to soak vegetable seeds in water overnight before planting outdoors? Could not find anything researched based to support this practice except Okra. According to Iowa Extension, to enhance germination, soak okra seeds in water for several hours or overnight before sowing. Toby Day (MSU Extension Horticultural Specialist) has seen many gardeners pre-soak peas and beans so that they get a good start and can grow through some of the damping off diseases. He also states “I wouldn’t pre-soak for any other reason, unless it is documented on the seed package.”

• Is using egg shells to manage blossom end rot a good practice? According to Michigan State Extension, crushed or whole egg shells, human calcium supplements, various calcium-based antacids or watering the plants with milk are not effective practices to manage blossom end rot. The real problem is that there was not enough water in the soil to transport the ample calcium that is already present in virtually all Michigan soils. Toby Day states that ample calcium is also present in virtually all Montana Soils. One scenario where egg shells may be needed is if tomatoes or peppers are being grown in pots with soilless media.

• Should I plant my potatoes on Good Friday? The MSU Extension Montguide “Can I Grow That Here” has each vegetable listed on whether it is a transplant or seed plant. Plant potato tuber when soil temperature is 60-65 degrees.

• I understand that male asparagus is more vigorous than female asparagus. How to tell if an asparagus is male? According to Michigan State Extension, you will not be able to tell the difference until berries appear on the female plants, unless you are a good enough botanist to tell the difference between male and female flowers. According to The MSU Extension Montguide “Growing Asparagus in Montana,” the all-male “Montana” strains are Jersey Giant, Jersey Prince’ and ‘Jersey Knight’ are high-yielding.

Montana State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.