Sow, plant … These two words are often used synonymously, that is, as if they mean the same thing. But this is not correct, since although both refer to plants, it is important that in the same way that we differentiate seeds from plants, we know when one term is used and when the other.
And it is very easy to get confused. For this reason, we are going to explain what it means to sow or plant, and how they differ.
What does the verb sembrar mean?
Let’s start at the beginning: sowing, which means placing a seed in the ground or in a pot to germinate . The seeds are sown in a seedbed , such as a pot or a tray with holes for example, or directly in the ground. It is done taking into account the needs of the future plant, that is, if it is sunny or shady, or if it will need more or less space, for example.
This is a magnificent experience, no matter how old you are, since you see a plant grow from its beginnings, since it is a seemingly simple seed. In addition, you learn a lot by cultivating, since based on trial and error you find out how often you have to water, or what type of land is best for you.
What is the sowing season?
The sowing season includes those days of the year that are most conducive to sowing the seeds of the plants . Thus, the one of many of the orchard is spring. But since each plant has its own needs, farmers and hobbyists can make use of a planting calendar , which clearly shows when to plant.
When are the plants planted?
If we consider what we have just explained, this question is wrong. The correct thing is: when are the seeds of the plants sown? And having said that, the answer will vary depending on the type of plant .
Although the vast majority of seeds are sown in spring, since this allows them to germinate in good conditions as there is no frost for a long season, there are some that are sown in autumn or even winter: this is the case of many trees, such as maples, cherry trees, or redwoods; and also of horticultural plants such as garlic or onion.
What comes first: sowing or reaping?
Sowing , of course. In this first stage of cultivation, the seeds are selected, the seedbed is prepared, and then they are buried a bit. Then, it is watered so that they do not dry out. Once they germinate and have at least 4 pairs of true leaves, they can be fertilized.
On the other hand, the harvest is the moment in which the fruits, roots or already mature plants are harvested . In other words, it is the last task carried out by the hobbyist or the farmer, and the one most awaited by the family.
What does the verb plantar mean?
Now we move on to the term planting. This is a verb that means to place a plant in a pot or on the ground. We plant plants, not seeds. According to the Royal Spanish Academy, it is also correct to say that bulbs, cuttings, or stems are planted. In addition, it is done in a different way than how seeds are sown since we are talking about totally different things.
And it is that to plant it is better to wait for spring to arrive , regardless of the type of plant it is. Although there are some that withstand the cold, it is preferable not to expose them to low temperatures a few weeks after planting them, since there is a risk of damage, such as the fall of leaves and / or fruits for example.
Another similar verb is transplanted, which means to extract a plant from one place to put it in another. It is also done most of the time in spring, but it can also be done in summer and/or autumn depending on the health of the plant in question and the climate since it is always necessary to avoid excessive cold or heat during the first few weeks after transplant.
How to plant and transplant?
When we are going to plant or transplant a plant, we must follow these steps :
- The first is to make sure it has rooted properly, to the point where the roots come out of the pot’s drainage holes.
- Afterwards, it is carefully removed.
- Then, it is planted in the new pot, which has to be at least five centimeters wider and taller than the one it already had; or in the ground, making a hole large enough so that it fits well and is neither high nor low relative to the ground level.
- Finally, we proceed to water. You have to pour water on the earth until it is soaked. If it is in a pot, then we will let it drain.
As you can see, sowing or planting are two slightly different tasks. Now that you know what they mean and how each one is made, I hope you enjoy growing plants a lot more.
