Garden Glossary

Annual

A plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season.

Perennial

A plant that returns for multiple years.

Mulch

Material placed on the soil surface to protect soil, reduce evaporation, suppress weeds, and moderate temperature.

Compost

Decomposed organic matter used to improve soil.

Hardening off

The process of gradually acclimating indoor-grown plants to outdoor conditions.

Succession planting

Planting small amounts repeatedly to extend harvests.

Field notes

Good vocabulary makes garden decisions clearer.