In this week’s garden check-in, (Click here to watch Live) we took a moment to focus on one of the smallest—but most important—parts of our plants: the cotyledon leaves. These are the very first leaves that emerge after germination, often called “seed leaves.” While they’re essential at the start, they can become a hindrance if left on for too long.
If you’re growing vertically outdoors—especially in a contiguous setup like a GreenStalk or other stacked system—space is everything. Every leaf matters in the tight quarters of a vertical garden.
🌱 Why Prune Cotyledon Leaves?
Cotyledons play their part early in the plant’s life, but once the true leaves have developed, cotyledons can start to block airflow, harbor moisture, and compete for nutrients in a closely packed environment. Pruning them at the right time helps reduce stress on the plant and keeps your system healthy overall.
🌿 Our Vertical Garden Setup
We’re growing in a compact, outdoor vertical system that allows for dense planting. This method saves space and keeps everything close—but it also means we have to be intentional about maintenance. Weekly check-ins help us spot any early issues, from crowding to yellowing leaves.
This week’s focus:
- Pruned cotyledon leaves from leafy greens and herbs
- Checked for overlapping or nutrient-competing root zones
- Gave each plant room to breathe and grow
- Noted strong performers in each tier of the garden
🍃 Final Thoughts for Cultivators
Vertical gardening is all about balance—space, nutrients, and airflow. Removing cotyledon leaves may seem like a small step, but it sets your plants up for stronger, healthier growth. If you’re gardening in stacked planters, make pruning a regular part of your check-in.
Every layer matters when you’re cultivating upward! 🌿
