Zucchini originated in Mesoamerica, the region extending from central Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. It’s a relatively recent addition to gardens but has been cultivated since at least the mid-19th century. Records from the 1800s...
Plants have a buddy system. Certain plants help others grow stronger than they could on their own. Welcome to companion gardening. Farmers and plant enthusiasts have used this technique for centuries to boost crop yields, improve pest control, and promote overall...
The eggplant was first cultivated in Asia. However, most of its wild relatives are from Africa. This oft-maligned tear-shaped vegetable is a staple in many international cuisines and the beloved Italian comfort dish eggplant Parmesan. Cooked eggplant has a creamy...
Bell peppers originated in the tropical and subtropical Americas. Columbus introduced them to Europe in 1493. Plant diversification occurred primarily in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America, where peppers flavored dishes, preserved food, and treated various...
What was your least-liked vegetable as a child? We’re guessing the beet, but now, as an enlightened, health- and weight-conscious adult, you’ve come to embrace this ungainly root vegetable with so many benefits. Beets are low in calories but rich in...
“Cantaloupe” is hard to spell but easy to grow. This fruiting vine traces its roots to Egypt and Central Asia, dating back to around 2400 BCE. In Italy, cantaloupe cultivation rose with the Renaissance and, by the 15th century, had spread to Spain and...
