[English 101] GARDEN WORK - Vocabulary for planting, weeding, and landscaping

Teaching Material

1. I planted tomato seeds in small pots last weekend.
• Seed (noun) - A small embryonic plant enclosed in a protective covering
• Use “seed” when referring to the starting point of a plant’s growth; essential for discussing early planting steps.
• “Do we have any lettuce seeds left?” “Yes, they’re on the shelf.”
• Kernel - Use “kernel” specifically for seeds of cereals, nuts, or corn rather than garden vegetables.
2. The seedlings need extra light to grow strong.
• Seedling (noun) - A young plant, especially one raised from seed
• Use “seedling” to discuss newly sprouted plants that require gentle care and gradual introduction to outdoor conditions.
• “Should I move the seedlings outside?” “Wait until they’re sturdier.”
3. We’ll transplant the tomatoes into the raised bed next week.
• Transplant (verb) - To move a plant from one location or container to another
• Use “transplant” to talk about re-locating plants for better growth or space. It’s key when seedlings outgrow their initial pots.
• “When do we transplant these peppers?” “After the last frost date.”
4. Our garden soil is too clay-heavy, making drainage an issue.
• Soil (noun) - The top layer of the earth where plants grow, composed of organic and inorganic materials
• Use “soil” for the fundamental medium supporting plant roots, essential for discussing bed preparation or potting.
• “Is this soil fertile enough?” “We might add compost to enrich it.”
5. He chose a quality potting mix for the indoor herbs.
• Potting mix (noun) - A blend of materials such as peat moss, perlite, and compost used in container gardening
• Use “potting mix” when discussing soil alternatives for potted plants; it ensures good drainage and nutrients.
• “Which potting mix is best for succulents?” “A fast-draining type works best.”
• Potting soil - Use “potting soil” as a general term for bagged soil blends, though it may vary in quality.
6. We mix compost into our garden beds each spring.
• Compost (noun) - Decomposed organic material used as a rich fertilizer for soil
• Use “compost” for enriching soil with natural nutrients. Mention it frequently when boosting plant health.
• “Where should I put these vegetable scraps?” “Add them to the compost pile.”
7. Apply fertilizer around the rose bushes to boost their blooms.
• Fertilizer (noun) - A substance added to soil to enhance its fertility
• Use “fertilizer” to discuss nutrient boosts. Important in moderation to prevent burning plants.
• “When do I fertilize the lawn?” “Early spring and late summer are best.”
8. They spread cow manure over the vegetable patch in autumn.
• Manure (noun) - Animal dung used to fertilize land
• Use “manure” for rich organic matter. Typically added to soil well before planting to let nutrients settle.
• “Does manure smell strong?” “Yes, but it’s effective as a natural fertilizer.”
9. Use the trowel to fill each pot with soil.
• Trowel (noun) - A small handheld tool with a flat blade for digging or smoothing soil
• Use “trowel” for small digging tasks or transplanting seedlings. Perfect for precise garden work.
• “Can you pass me the trowel?” “Sure, here you go.”
10. He used a spade to define the lawn edges neatly.
• Spade (noun) - A tool with a flat, square-edged blade for digging or cutting sod
• Use “spade” to describe a flat-bladed tool ideal for edging and slicing through soil.
• “Is that a shovel?” “It’s actually a spade; notice the straight blade.”
11. I need a sturdy shovel to move this pile of dirt.
• Shovel (noun) - A tool with a broad, curved blade for scooping and moving loose materials like soil or gravel
• Use “shovel” for heavier digging or transferring soil, compost, or mulch. More curved than a spade.
• “Hand me the shovel, please.” “Here it is—watch your back when lifting.”
12. He used a rake to clear the fallen leaves.
• Rake (noun) - A garden tool with a row of metal or plastic teeth at the head, used for gathering leaves or smoothing soil
• Use “rake” for gathering debris like leaves or for leveling soil in landscaping projects.
• “Where’s the rake?” “It’s in the shed, next to the shovel.”
13. She hoed between rows to remove weeds and loosen the soil.
• Hoe (noun) - A garden tool with a flat blade on a long handle, used to shape soil, remove weeds, or cultivate
• Use “hoe” for cultivating or weeding. It helps keep the soil aerated and weed-free.
• “Should I use a hoe?” “Yes, it’s great for breaking up the top layer of dirt.”
14. The garden was overrun with weeds after the rain.
• Weed (noun) - An unwanted plant that grows among cultivated plants
• Use “weed” when referring to intrusive plants that compete with your crops or flowers for nutrients.
• “How often should I weed the beds?” “At least once a week to keep them clear.”
15. I spent two hours weeding the flowerbeds this morning.
• Weeding (verb (gerund)) - The act of removing unwanted plants or weeds from the garden
• Use “weeding” to describe the ongoing task of pulling or cutting out unwanted plants. It’s a frequent garden chore.
• “Are you free to help with weeding?” “Yes, I can pull out some dandelions.”
16. Prune the rose bushes in early spring for better blooms.
• Prune (verb) - To trim or cut away dead or overgrown branches to improve plant health
• Use “prune” when removing excess or diseased growth. It promotes healthy shape and flowering.
• “Should I prune these branches now?” “Yes, before they block the sunlight.”
17. He used pruning shears to shape the shrubs neatly.
• Pruning shears (noun) - Handheld cutting tools used for pruning small branches or stems
• Use “pruning shears” for precise cuts on thin branches, preventing damage to the plant.
• “Where are the pruning shears?” “On the shelf by the gloves.”
• Secateurs - Use “secateurs” in UK English contexts for the same handheld pruning tool.
18. He used a hedge trimmer to even out the tall bushes.
• Hedge trimmer (noun) - A power tool used to cut and shape hedges or shrubs
• Use “hedge trimmer” for larger-scale shaping of bushes or hedges, offering a more uniform cut.
• “Should I use manual shears or the hedge trimmer?” “The trimmer is faster for big hedges.”
19. I’ll use the lawn mower today to tidy the backyard.
• Lawn mower (noun) - A machine used to cut the grass on a lawn to a uniform height
• Use “lawn mower” when discussing grass maintenance. Essential for keeping lawns neat and healthy.
• “Can you mow the lawn?” “Yes, I’ll start after breakfast.”
20. Use the grass trimmer for edges where the mower can’t reach.
• Grass trimmer (noun) - A handheld device with a spinning line or blade to cut grass in hard-to-reach areas
• Use “grass trimmer” (or “string trimmer”) for finishing touches along fences or around garden beds.
• “The corners are tricky.” “Grab the grass trimmer to tidy them up.”
• Weed whacker - Use “weed whacker” casually for cutting overgrowth in tight spots.
21. The edger gave the lawn a crisp boundary along the driveway.
• Edger (noun) - A tool used to create a defined boundary between lawn and walkway or flowerbed
• Use “edger” when you want sharp, professional-looking borders. Great for neat landscaping.
• “How do I keep the lawn edges clean?” “Use an edger to separate grass from the path.”
22. We filled the wheelbarrow with mulch for the flowerbeds.
• Wheelbarrow (noun) - A small cart with one wheel and two handles used for carrying garden materials
• Use “wheelbarrow” to transport soil, plants, or debris efficiently around the garden.
• “Can you bring the wheelbarrow here?” “Sure, I’ll load it with compost.”
23. I attached a spray nozzle to the garden hose for easier watering.
• Garden hose (noun) - A flexible tube used to convey water for watering or cleaning
• Use “garden hose” to water plants or wash surfaces. Various lengths and nozzles suit different tasks.
• “Is the garden hose long enough to reach the far bed?” “Yes, we have a 50-foot hose.”
24. She used a watering can for the delicate seedlings.
• Watering can (noun) - A portable container with a spout, used to pour water on plants
• Use “watering can” for precise, gentle watering, especially helpful for indoor or fragile plants.
• “Should I spray these or use a watering can?” “Use the can to avoid harming tender sprouts.”
25. They set up a sprinkler system to automate lawn watering.
• Sprinkler (noun) - A device that sprays water over a large area, used for lawn or garden irrigation
• Use “sprinkler” for automated or semi-automated watering, ideal for large lawns or garden zones.
• “Does the sprinkler cover the entire yard?” “It needs to rotate to reach all corners.”
26. We started our seedlings in the greenhouse for warmth.
• Greenhouse (noun) - A glass or plastic structure that provides a controlled climate for plants
• Use “greenhouse” to discuss climate-controlled environments where plants can grow year-round or start early.
• “Can these plants survive outside yet?” “Not until they’ve spent some time in the greenhouse.”
27. We built raised beds to improve drainage and soil quality.
• Raised bed (noun) - A contained garden area elevated above ground level, often framed with wood or blocks
• Use “raised bed” for improved control over soil composition, easier access, and better drainage.
• “Should we plant the carrots in the raised bed?” “Yes, the soil is looser there.”
28. She arranged colorful planters by the front porch.
• Planter (noun) - A container in which plants are grown, typically for decorative or portable uses
• Use “planter” for ornamental containers or pots for flowers, herbs, or small shrubs. Great for patios or decks.
• “Where’s the best spot for this planter?” “Somewhere with morning sun.”
29. He added a layer of mulch around the rose bushes.
• Mulch (noun) - Material such as wood chips or straw spread on top of soil to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Use “mulch” for moisture retention, weed control, and temperature regulation in garden beds.
• “Why mulch the garden?” “It keeps weeds down and helps retain water.”
30. We applied a mild pesticide to control the aphid infestation.
• Pesticide (noun) - A substance used to kill pests that damage plants
• Use “pesticide” cautiously to manage insects or fungi. Consider organic or targeted options when possible.
• “Is this pesticide safe for vegetables?” “Yes, just follow the instructions carefully.”
31. Spraying herbicide can clear invasive weeds but be mindful of nearby crops.
• Herbicide (noun) - A substance used to kill or inhibit the growth of unwanted plants (weeds)
• Use “herbicide” if manual removal is too challenging. Be cautious with application to protect desired plants.
• “Should we use herbicide here?” “Only if manual weeding isn’t effective.”
32. She prefers organic methods like compost and beneficial insects.
• Organic (adjective) - Relating to or derived from natural, chemical-free processes
• Use “organic” to emphasize natural, eco-friendly approaches—common in discussions on sustainable gardening.
• “Why use organic solutions?” “They’re safer for pollinators and the environment.”
33. Roses and peonies are perennials that return every spring.
• Perennial (noun/adjective) - A plant that lives for several years, regrowing each season
• Use “perennial” for plants that persist beyond one year, providing consistent blooms or foliage.
• “Should we get annuals or perennials?” “Perennials save effort by coming back each year.”
34. Petunias are common annuals that provide bright summer color.
• Annual (noun/adjective) - A plant that completes its life cycle in one season and must be replanted each year
• Use “annual” to describe plants that grow, flower, and die within a single growing season.
• “I love these flowers.” “They’re annuals, so we’ll replant next spring.”
35. Foxglove is a biennial, blooming in its second year before dying back.
• Biennial (noun/adjective) - A plant that completes its life cycle in two years, often flowering in the second year
• Use “biennial” for plants that focus on foliage the first year and flower in the second.
• “When will it bloom?” “It’s a biennial, so expect flowers next year.”
36. Propagation by cuttings is a cost-effective way to expand your garden.
• Propagation (noun) - The process of growing new plants from seeds, cuttings, or other plant parts
• Use “propagation” when discussing multiplying plants. Common methods include seeds, cuttings, and layering.
• “Should we buy new plants?” “We can do propagation from our existing herbs.”
37. She took geranium cuttings and rooted them in water.
• Cuttings (noun) - Sections of plant stems or leaves used to grow new plants
• Use “cuttings” for easy propagation of many ornamental and herb species. Ensure correct cutting techniques for best results.
• “How do I get more rosemary plants?” “Take cuttings from a healthy stem.”
38. Fruit trees are often improved through grafting for better yields.
• Grafting (noun/verb) - A method of joining two plant parts (rootstock and scion) to grow as a single plant
• Use “grafting” when combining desirable traits, like sturdy rootstock with a productive or ornamental top.
• “Why graft roses?” “It can produce stronger roots and more vibrant blooms.”
39. Strawberries spread via runners, which is a natural form of layering.
• Layering (noun) - A propagation technique where a stem is bent to the ground and covered with soil to form roots
• Use “layering” if you can bend living stems near soil. Wait for roots to form before cutting it free.
• “How do I multiply my jasmine plant?” “Try layering a healthy branch until it roots.”
40. Budding can create new rose varieties on hardy rootstocks.
• Budding (noun) - A grafting technique where a bud is inserted under the bark of another plant
• Use “budding” when discussing delicate grafting of a single bud onto compatible rootstock. Common in fruit trees.
• “Is budding tricky?” “It requires precision but yields robust hybrid plants.”
41. The seeds will germinate faster in warm, moist conditions.
• Germinate (verb) - When a seed begins to grow and put out shoots after a period of dormancy
• Use “germinate” when seeds break dormancy and start to sprout. Key concept in starting plants from seed.
• “Why haven’t they sprouted?” “They need proper warmth to germinate.”
42. The tulips began to bloom in early April.
• Bloom (verb/noun) - A flower; to produce flowers or be in flower
• Use “bloom” to describe flowering phases. It highlights a plant’s most colorful and reproductive stage.
• “When do these daisies bloom?” “They usually bloom all summer.”
43. Deadhead your petunias often to prolong flowering.
• Deadhead (verb) - To remove spent or faded flowers to encourage more blooms or tidy appearance
• Use “deadhead” for removing old blooms to boost repeat flowering and neatness in ornamental plants.
• “These roses look wilted.” “Deadhead them to encourage new buds.”
44. The leaves began to wilt in the midday sun without adequate watering.
• Wilt (verb) - To become limp through heat, loss of water, or disease
• Use “wilt” for drooping, weakened plants. Often a sign of thirst, heat stress, or disease.
• “Why do my tomatoes look droopy?” “They might wilt from lack of water.”
45. Excess moisture caused root rot in my potted basil.
• Root rot (noun) - A condition where plant roots decay due to overwatering or fungal infection
• Use “root rot” to describe a serious condition from poor drainage or fungal pathogens. Prevention is better than cure.
• “Why are the stems turning black?” “Could be root rot—check drainage.”
46. He used a garden fork to aerate the compacted soil.
• Aerate (verb) - To introduce air into or expose to the circulation of air, improving soil structure
• Use “aerate” when loosening compact soil to enhance oxygen flow and water penetration for healthier roots.
• “Is my lawn too dense?” “Yes, aerate it to help roots breathe.”
47. Spread topsoil before planting the new lawn seeds.
• Topsoil (noun) - The uppermost layer of soil, typically rich in organic matter
• Use “topsoil” to reference the layer you see and work with most. Quality topsoil helps plant roots thrive.
• “Do we need fresh topsoil?” “Yes, especially in areas where the soil is poor.”
48. Loam is considered ideal for most garden plants.
• Loam (noun) - A rich, friable soil containing roughly equal parts of sand, silt, and clay
• Use “loam” for describing high-quality garden soil with good aeration and water retention.
• “What soil type is best?” “A balanced loam for good drainage and nutrients.”
49. Mix peat moss into the potting mix for better moisture control.
• Peat moss (noun) - Decomposed moss used to improve soil aeration and water retention
• Use “peat moss” to amend soil structure. Check for sustainable sources as peat harvesting impacts wetlands.
• “Is peat moss necessary?” “It helps lighten heavy soil and retains moisture.”
50. Vermiculite helps keep seedlings evenly moist.
• Vermiculite (noun) - A mineral that expands when heated, used in potting mixes for water retention
• Use “vermiculite” to enhance moisture retention in soil mixes. Particularly useful in seed starting trays.
• “Should we add vermiculite?” “Yes, it’s great for seed starting.”
51. He added perlite to the potting soil for his succulents.
• Perlite (noun) - A form of volcanic glass that expands when heated, used to improve soil drainage
• Use “perlite” to lighten soil and boost aeration. Common in mixes for cacti or any plant needing quick drainage.
• “Why is this white stuff in the soil?” “It’s perlite to help with drainage.”
52. Rhododendrons thrive in soil with a lower pH.
• pH (noun) - A measure of acidity or alkalinity in soil; ranges from acidic (below 7) to alkaline (above 7)
• Use “pH” when balancing soil for specific plants. Test kits are common for ensuring optimal growth conditions.
• “Should we test the soil pH?” “Yes, it affects nutrient availability.”
53. Many vegetables prefer a neutral pH around 6.5 to 7.
• Neutral (adjective) - Describes a pH of 7, neither acidic nor alkaline
• Use “neutral” when your soil’s pH is close to 7, suitable for a wide range of garden plants.
• “Is our soil acidic?” “No, it’s fairly neutral, which is good.”
54. Some plants, such as azaleas, thrive in acidic soil.
• Acidic (adjective) - Describes soil with a pH below 7, often favored by certain plants like blueberries
• Use “acidic” for soils below pH 7, commonly adjusted with sulfur or organic matter if needed.
• “Why aren’t my hydrangeas turning blue?” “They need more acidic soil.”
55. Lavender prefers slightly alkaline conditions.
• Alkaline (adjective) - Describes soil with a pH above 7, sometimes referred to as “sweet” soil
• Use “alkaline” for soils above pH 7. Adjusting is often necessary for acid-loving plants.
• “Our soil is too alkaline for these roses.” “We can add soil acidifier to lower the pH.”
56. Good drainage prevents waterlogged roots and fungal diseases.
• Drainage (noun) - The rate at which water passes through soil or containers
• Use “drainage” to discuss water flow in pots or beds. Critical to avoiding overwatering issues.
• “Why did my herbs die?” “Poor drainage may have caused root rot.”
57. They laid landscape fabric before adding gravel for the walkway.
• Landscape fabric (noun) - A textile placed over soil to block weeds while allowing water and air through
• Use “landscape fabric” to control weed growth under paths or mulch. It helps reduce maintenance.
• “Is this weed barrier good?” “Yes, use landscape fabric under mulch to reduce weeds.”
58. Creeping thyme makes an excellent ground cover between stepping stones.
• Ground cover (noun) - Low-growing plants that spread to form dense coverage over soil
• Use “ground cover” to describe plants that fill bare soil, suppress weeds, and add visual appeal.
• “What’s a good ground cover for shade?” “Try hostas or ajuga.”
59. They trimmed the hedge to keep it tidy along the property line.
• Hedge (noun) - A row of closely planted shrubs or low trees forming a boundary or fence
• Use “hedge” for privacy or decorative borders. Requires regular trimming for neat shape.
• “Should we build a fence?” “Maybe plant a hedge for a natural barrier.”
60. Flowering shrubs add color to the garden all season.
• Shrub (noun) - A woody plant smaller than a tree with multiple stems at ground level
• Use “shrub” for medium-sized woody plants. Great for foundation planting, structure, and layering in landscapes.
• “What shrubs work in partial shade?” “Hydrangeas or azaleas do well.”
61. Secure the sapling with a tree stake to prevent wind damage.
• Tree stake (noun) - A support driven into the ground to help stabilize a newly planted or young tree
• Use “tree stake” for newly transplanted trees or windy areas. Remove once roots establish firmly.
• “My new maple is leaning.” “Use a tree stake and soft ties for support.”
62. She attached a trellis to the wall for climbing roses.
• Trellis (noun) - A framework of light wooden or metal bars for climbing plants
• Use “trellis” to support climbing plants like cucumbers, peas, or flowering vines. Adds vertical interest.
• “Where should we place this trellis?” “Near the fence so the vines can latch on.”
63. They placed an arbor at the garden entrance for a welcoming look.
• Arbor (noun) - A garden structure, often arch-shaped, used for climbing plants or as a passageway
• Use “arbor” for decorative entrances or pathways. It lends structural charm and supports trailing plants.
• “What’s that arch?” “It’s an arbor for the climbing jasmine.”
64. They built a pergola over the patio and grew wisteria on it.
• Pergola (noun) - An outdoor structure with pillars supporting crossbeams for partial shade and climbing plants
• Use “pergola” to create a shaded seating area or walkway. Often used with vines for a cozy ambiance.
• “Is that a roof?” “It’s a pergola, offering filtered light.”
65. He repaired the wooden fence to keep rabbits out.
• Fence (noun) - A barrier enclosing or bordering a field, yard, or garden
• Use “fence” for security, privacy, or containing pets. Various materials suit different garden aesthetics.
• “Should we put up a fence?” “Yes, it’ll protect our vegetables from deer.”
66. We toss kitchen scraps into the compost bin daily.
• Compost bin (noun) - A container where organic waste decomposes into compost
• Use “compost bin” for collecting plant-based waste. Turn it regularly for faster decomposition.
• “Where do I put these fruit peels?” “Add them to the compost bin.”
67. She placed a potting bench near the greenhouse for convenience.
• Potting bench (noun) - A workstation where gardeners can pot or repot plants, organize tools, and mix soil
• Use “potting bench” for an organized space to handle small planting tasks. Saves back strain and mess.
• “Where should I repot these flowers?” “Use the potting bench to keep the area tidy.”
68. Wearing garden gloves prevents blisters and scratches.
• Garden gloves (noun) - Protective gloves worn while gardening to shield hands from dirt, thorns, or chemicals
• Use “garden gloves” for safety and cleanliness. Choose breathable, durable materials suited to your tasks.
• “Why do I need garden gloves?” “They protect your hands from cuts and infections.”
69. He used a kneeling pad to avoid knee strain while weeding.
• Kneeling pad (noun) - A cushioned mat to support knees while working at ground level
• Use “kneeling pad” to protect joints and stay comfortable during close-to-ground tasks.
• “My knees ache when I weed.” “Try a kneeling pad for extra cushioning.”
70. They installed landscape lighting along the path to the patio.
• Landscape lighting (noun) - Outdoor lights placed to highlight garden features and provide nighttime visibility
• Use “landscape lighting” for aesthetic and practical illumination. Often solar-powered or low-voltage systems.
• “Why install landscape lighting?” “It creates ambiance and helps with safety after dark.”
71. They dug a koi pond as the focal point of the garden.
• Pond (noun) - A small body of still water for ornamental fish or aquatic plants
• Use “pond” for water features adding tranquility and biodiversity. Requires balanced filtration and maintenance.
• “How do I maintain a pond?” “Keep it aerated and manage algae growth.”
72. The rock garden displayed succulents and miniature conifers beautifully.
• Rock garden (noun) - A garden design featuring rocks and alpine plants that thrive in well-drained soil
• Use “rock garden” for low-maintenance, decorative spaces that highlight stones and drought-tolerant plants.
• “How can we landscape this dry slope?” “A rock garden would look great there.”
73. They created a topiary arch from a pair of boxwood shrubs.
• Topiary (noun/adjective) - The art of trimming shrubs or trees into ornamental shapes
• Use “topiary” to describe sculptural, decorative plant shaping. Common with boxwood or privet hedges.
• “How do they get those shaped bushes?” “It’s called topiary, a specialized pruning technique.”
74. Ornamental grasses add texture to the landscape.
• Ornamental (adjective) - Plants or elements grown primarily for decorative purposes rather than functional use
• Use “ornamental” for decorative plant varieties or garden features that focus on aesthetics rather than produce.
• “Should we grow food plants?” “We’re focusing on ornamental species this year.”
75. Plant spring-flowering bulbs in the fall for a colorful display.
• Bulbs (noun) - Underground storage organs (e.g., tulips, daffodils) that produce new shoots each year
• Use “bulbs” for plants like tulips or onions. They store nutrients underground for annual regrowth.
• “When do I plant these bulbs?” “In autumn, so they bloom next spring.”
76. Handle the root ball gently when transplanting so you don’t damage roots.
• Root ball (noun) - The mass of roots and soil attached to a plant when it’s removed from a pot or ground
• Use “root ball” to refer to the intact root system. Keep it moist and intact when moving plants.
• “Is the root ball too dry?” “Yes, soak it before planting.”
77. Proper spacing prevents overcrowding and disease spread.
• Spacing (noun) - The distance between plants to ensure adequate room for growth
• Use “spacing” when planning layout to avoid competition for light, water, and nutrients.
• “How far apart do I plant tomatoes?” “Give each one at least two feet of spacing.”
78. Basil and tomatoes thrive with companion planting, helping repel pests.
• Companion planting (noun) - Strategically growing different plants near each other for mutual benefits (e.g., pest control)
• Use “companion planting” to enhance growth and deter pests. Popular combos include tomatoes with basil or nasturtiums.
• “Should I plant marigolds with peppers?” “Yes, that’s effective companion planting.”
79. Succulents are low-maintenance and thrive in dry conditions.
• Succulents (noun) - Plants with thick, fleshy tissues for water storage, e.g., cacti or aloe
• Use “succulents” for water-efficient plants with interesting shapes, ideal for sunny, low-water gardens.
• “I forget to water often.” “Try succulents—they’re drought-tolerant.”
80. Installing drip irrigation saved water and kept the garden healthy.
• Irrigation (noun) - The supply of water to land or crops to aid in growth, typically by means of channels or pipes
• Use “irrigation” for systematic watering solutions, from sprinklers to drip lines, essential in larger gardens.
• “Our plants are drying out.” “We need a better irrigation system.”
81. He set up a drip system to conserve water in the vegetable patch.
• Drip system (noun) - A low-pressure irrigation method that delivers water slowly at the plant’s base
• Use “drip system” for efficient watering, especially in arid climates or large gardens. Minimizes water loss.
• “Why choose drip?” “It reduces evaporation and targets roots directly.”
82. They installed a rain barrel under the downspout to conserve water.
• Rain barrel (noun) - A container that collects and stores rainwater for later use in the garden
• Use “rain barrel” for eco-friendly irrigation, reducing reliance on municipal water and lowering bills.
• “How do I water the flowers sustainably?” “Use the rain barrel to avoid tapping city water.”
83. We’ll harvest our tomatoes once they turn fully red.
• Harvest (verb/noun) - The act of gathering mature crops or produce; also refers to the yield itself
• Use “harvest” when picking ripe produce or cutting flowers. Proper timing ensures best flavor or bloom.
• “When’s harvest time for lettuce?” “As soon as the leaves are big enough.”
84. Our vegetable patch has tomatoes, peppers, and carrots this season.
• Vegetable patch (noun) - A designated area in a garden for growing edible plants
• Use “vegetable patch” for focusing your edible garden. Plan it in sunny spots with rich soil.
• “Where’s the vegetable patch?” “Next to the shed, where it gets full sun.”
85. We planted zinnias in the front flowerbed for summer color.
• Flowerbed (noun) - A dedicated area of a garden for growing flowers
• Use “flowerbed” when discussing a plot specifically for ornamental blooms, often arranged for visual impact.
• “Which flowers go in the flowerbed?” “Try annuals like petunias for constant bloom.”
86. She started a small herb garden with basil, thyme, and rosemary.
• Herb garden (noun) - A section of the garden devoted to growing herbs for cooking or medicinal use
• Use “herb garden” for culinary or medicinal plants. Keep it near the kitchen for quick harvest.
• “Any fresh herbs?” “Check the herb garden for rosemary sprigs.”
87. They sowed clover as a green manure before planting corn.
• Green manure (noun) - Cover crops grown to be turned into the soil to improve fertility
• Use “green manure” when discussing cover crops that will be incorporated back into the soil to boost organic content.
• “How do we enrich the soil naturally?” “Plant a green manure crop and till it in.”
88. They practiced natural pest control by introducing ladybugs against aphids.
• Pest control (noun) - Methods used to manage or eliminate pests harmful to plants
• Use “pest control” to discuss strategies, from organic to chemical, for protecting plants from insects or diseases.
• “How do we handle these caterpillars?” “Let’s explore safe pest control methods first.”
89. We released beneficial insects to eat aphids instead of using chemicals.
• Beneficial insects (noun) - Insects like ladybugs or praying mantises that help control garden pests
• Use “beneficial insects” for natural pest management. Attract them with specific plants or buy them from suppliers.
• “Is it safe to have bugs?” “Yes, beneficial insects reduce harmful pests.”
90. She planted asters and milkweed in her butterfly garden.
• Butterfly garden (noun) - A garden designed to attract and support butterflies with nectar-rich plants
• Use “butterfly garden” if you want pollinators, especially butterflies, by incorporating their host and nectar plants.
• “How do I get more butterflies?” “Create a butterfly garden with colorful, nectar-rich flowers.”
91. Bees are crucial pollinators for many fruit and vegetable crops.
• Pollinator (noun) - An organism (bees, butterflies, etc.) that helps transfer pollen between flowers, enabling fertilization
• Use “pollinator” to emphasize animals that move pollen, essential for fruitful gardens and ecological balance.
• “Why attract bees?” “They’re the main pollinator for our zucchini blossoms.”
92. She feeds her roses with compost tea every two weeks.
• Compost tea (noun) - A liquid fertilizer created by steeping compost in water
• Use “compost tea” to give plants a quick nutrient intake. Apply as a foliar spray or soil drench.
• “Need a boost for the veggies?” “Yes, I’ll brew some compost tea.”
93. He used a tiller to churn soil in the new garden bed.
• Churn soil (phrasal verb) - To turn or mix the soil, usually to loosen and aerate it
• Use “churn soil” to prepare beds or incorporate compost. Be mindful not to over-till, which harms structure.
• “Should I churn the soil before planting?” “Yes, it helps roots expand easily.”
94. Place the seed tray under grow lights for strong germination.
• Seed tray (noun) - A shallow container used for sowing and starting seeds indoors or in a greenhouse
• Use “seed tray” for indoor germination or greenhouse starts, ensuring consistent moisture and temperature.
• “Where do I start these lettuce seeds?” “Use a seed tray near a bright window.”
95. He hardened off seedlings in a cold frame to gradually adapt them to outdoor temperatures.
• Cold frame (noun) - A transparent-roofed enclosure used to protect plants from cold while exposing them to sunlight
• Use “cold frame” for extending the growing season or protecting young plants from frost in cooler climates.
• “Do we need a greenhouse?” “A cold frame might be enough for early spring.”
96. Trees appear bare and dormant in winter but will leaf out again in spring.
• Dormant (adjective) - A period in a plant’s life cycle when growth temporarily stops or slows down significantly
• Use “dormant” to describe non-active growth phases in plants, often occurring in cold or dry seasons.
• “Why does the garden look dead?” “It’s dormant for winter—growth will resume soon.”
97. We’ll overwinter the geraniums inside so they survive the frost.
• Overwinter (verb) - To keep plants alive through the winter, often indoors or in protective conditions
• Use “overwinter” when discussing strategies to protect tender plants, especially in cold climates.
• “How do I save these potted herbs?” “Overwinter them on a sunny windowsill.”
98. Stake the tall sunflowers to prevent them from toppling over.
• Stake (verb/noun) - To support a plant with a pole or stick
• Use “stake” to keep plants upright, especially tall or vine crops that might bend under weight.
• “These tomatoes are drooping.” “Let’s stake them for support.”
99. Thinning the carrots ensures they have enough room to grow.
• Thinning (verb (gerund)) - Removing excess seedlings or branches so the remaining ones can develop better
• Use “thinning” for improving air circulation and resource availability, leading to healthier, larger plants.
• “These sprouts are overcrowded.” “Start thinning them so each gets enough space.”
100. Before planting them outside, harden off your seedlings over a week.
• Harden off (phrasal verb) - Gradually acclimating indoor or greenhouse-grown plants to outdoor conditions
• Use “harden off” to ensure seedlings adjust to wind, sun, and temperature fluctuations safely.
• “Can I put these sprouts outside now?” “Not yet—let’s harden off slowly to avoid shock.”
101. We hired a landscaper to revamp our backyard design.
• Landscaper (noun) - A professional who designs, installs, or maintains gardens, lawns, and outdoor spaces
• Use “landscaper” when referencing expert help or professional design services for larger or complex garden tasks.
• “Should we do this ourselves?” “Maybe consult a landscaper for complex projects.”