Digest

In this episode of Ask Grumpy, Steve Bender and Nella address a listener's concern about watermelons rotting and bursting open. They explain that overwatering can cause this issue, as the fruit absorbs more water than its skin can contain. They recommend mulching around the plants to help drain excess water and ensure even moisture. They also emphasize the importance of keeping the watermelons off bare soil to prevent rotting. The episode then features basil as the plant of the week. Steve highlights its ease of growth, requiring only moist soil and sun. He discusses various types of basil, including sweet basil, purple basil, lemon basil, clove basil, cinnamon basil, and Thai hot basil, emphasizing their culinary uses and ornamental value. He encourages listeners to try growing basil if they haven't already, noting its suitability for both garden beds and containers.

Outlines

00:00:00

Watermelon Rot and Bursting

This Chapter addresses a listener's question about watermelons rotting and bursting open. Steve explains that overwatering can cause this issue, as the fruit absorbs more water than its skin can contain. He recommends mulching around the plants to help drain excess water and ensure even moisture. He also emphasizes the importance of keeping the watermelons off bare soil to prevent rotting.

00:03:25

Basil: Plant of the Week

This Chapter features basil as the plant of the week. Steve highlights its ease of growth, requiring only moist soil and sun. He discusses various types of basil, including sweet basil, purple basil, lemon basil, clove basil, cinnamon basil, and Thai hot basil, emphasizing their culinary uses and ornamental value. He encourages listeners to try growing basil if they haven't already, noting its suitability for both garden beds and containers.

Keywords

Q&A

• Why are my watermelons rotting and bursting open?

  Overwatering is a common cause of rotting and bursting watermelons. When the fruit absorbs more water than its skin can contain, it can burst. To prevent this, ensure your soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help drain excess water and keep the soil consistently moist.

• How can I prevent my watermelons from rotting?

  To prevent watermelons from rotting, avoid placing them directly on bare soil. Instead, use a layer of mulch to create a barrier between the fruit and the soil. Mulch drains more quickly than soil, preventing the fruit from becoming waterlogged and rotting.

• What is the best herb for beginners?

  Basil is an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. It is easy to grow, requiring only moist soil and sun. It is also a versatile herb with many culinary uses and ornamental value.

• What are some different types of basil?

  There are many varieties of basil, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some popular types include sweet basil, purple basil, lemon basil, clove basil, cinnamon basil, and Thai hot basil. Sweet basil is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, while purple basil adds a decorative touch to flower borders. Lemon basil has a citrusy flavor, clove basil has a spicy clove flavor, cinnamon basil has a warm cinnamon flavor, and Thai hot basil has a spicy kick.

Show Notes