Gardening: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Pruning Roses
Pruning rose bushes is intimidating to many gardeners, but actually very good for the plants. Becoming an accomplished rose pruner takes time and practice, but keep in mind that it is very hard to kill a rose with bad pruning. It is better to make a good effort at pruning roses than to let them grow rampant. Here are some basic rose pruning guidelines for use in your rose garden.
Pruning rose bushes is intimidating to many gardeners, but actually very good for the plants. Becoming an accomplished rose pruner takes time and practice, but keep in mind that it is very hard to kill a rose with bad pruning. It is better to make a good effort at pruning roses than to let them grow rampant. Here are some basic rose pruning guidelines for use in your rose garden.
Pruning Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are popular old fashioned flowering shrubs. Regular hydrangea garden maintenance involves pruning the shrubs to keep them in shape and flowering profusely. But when to prune hydrangeas determines how well they will flower or if they will flower at all.
Hydrangeas are popular old fashioned flowering shrubs. Regular hydrangea garden maintenance involves pruning the shrubs to keep them in shape and flowering profusely. But when to prune hydrangeas determines how well they will flower or if they will flower at all.
Fall Perennial Pruning
It can be nice to leave some perennials standing for winter interest. But many perennial plants don’t survive rough weather well. Many plants have recurrent problems with pests and diseases, which will over winter in their fallen foliage and surface in the spring. The following list of perennial flowers survive and thrive better if pruned or cut down in the fall.
It can be nice to leave some perennials standing for winter interest. But many perennial plants don’t survive rough weather well. Many plants have recurrent problems with pests and diseases, which will over winter in their fallen foliage and surface in the spring. The following list of perennial flowers survive and thrive better if pruned or cut down in the fall.
Winter Rose Care
All rose plants need some attention going into winter. Winter weather can really challenge rose bushes, particularly the hybrid teas. You will need to discourage new growth and make sure the rose plants in your garden are well water and well mulched. Look out for overwintering garden pests and diseases too.
All rose plants need some attention going into winter. Winter weather can really challenge rose bushes, particularly the hybrid teas. You will need to discourage new growth and make sure the rose plants in your garden are well water and well mulched. Look out for overwintering garden pests and diseases too.
Pruning Raspberries
Brambles like raspberries and blackberries need regular pruning to keep bearing large, healthy crops and to prevent them from taking over your garden. Don’t let this scare you off of growing raspberry or blackberry plants. Pruning rambles is actually a simple procedure, if you follow these steps.
Brambles like raspberries and blackberries need regular pruning to keep bearing large, healthy crops and to prevent them from taking over your garden. Don’t let this scare you off of growing raspberry or blackberry plants. Pruning rambles is actually a simple procedure, if you follow these steps.
Tomato Growing Tips
Tomato plants know what they like and they grow well when you give it to them. Growing the best tasting or the earliest tomato is a great source of pride for the home gardener and here are 10 tips for growing terrific tomatoes.
Tomato plants know what they like and they grow well when you give it to them. Growing the best tasting or the earliest tomato is a great source of pride for the home gardener and here are 10 tips for growing terrific tomatoes.
Growing Rosemary
It's not hard to grow rosemary. Rosemary is a heat loving herb, associated with the Mediterranean, but you can successfully grow rosemary plants just about anywhere, as long as you give it plenty of sun and bring it inside for the winter.
It's not hard to grow rosemary. Rosemary is a heat loving herb, associated with the Mediterranean, but you can successfully grow rosemary plants just about anywhere, as long as you give it plenty of sun and bring it inside for the winter.
Drying Herbs
Fresh garden herbs can easily be air dried, to preserve their flavor and quality. Air drying herbs is not only the easiest and least expensive way to dry fresh herbs, but this slow drying process also doesn't deplete the herbs of their oils. Here are some simple steps for air drying herbs.
Fresh garden herbs can easily be air dried, to preserve their flavor and quality. Air drying herbs is not only the easiest and least expensive way to dry fresh herbs, but this slow drying process also doesn't deplete the herbs of their oils. Here are some simple steps for air drying herbs.
Cyclamen Care
Although many species of cyclamen are hardy, the cyclamen plants sold in greenhouses and stores during the holidays are considered houseplants and require different care than garden cyclamens. Still cyclamens make excellent long, blooming houseplants with minimal care, as outlined here.
Although many species of cyclamen are hardy, the cyclamen plants sold in greenhouses and stores during the holidays are considered houseplants and require different care than garden cyclamens. Still cyclamens make excellent long, blooming houseplants with minimal care, as outlined here.
Lavender
You can be successful growing lavender if you choose the right variety, even if you don't live in the Mediterranean region. Lavender plants, with their fragrant flowers, can be used to make lavender soaps and lotions. Or maybe you'd like to cook with lavender. Even gardeners who need deer resistant plants can grow lavender.
You can be successful growing lavender if you choose the right variety, even if you don't live in the Mediterranean region. Lavender plants, with their fragrant flowers, can be used to make lavender soaps and lotions. Or maybe you'd like to cook with lavender. Even gardeners who need deer resistant plants can grow lavender.
Viburnums
Viburnums have long been one of the most popular flowering landscape shrubs. You can find a variety to suit any garden need. Bloom times span early spring through June and are followed by attractive fruit and outstanding fall foliage.
Viburnums have long been one of the most popular flowering landscape shrubs. You can find a variety to suit any garden need. Bloom times span early spring through June and are followed by attractive fruit and outstanding fall foliage.
Strawberries
Strawberries are one of the easiest fruit crops for the home gardener to grow and one of the most rewarding. Day neutral and everbearing strawberries have been getting all the attention, but there still is no season like June for fresh strawberries. Whatever your zone, there is probably a strawberry plant for your garden. Here's how to grow great strawberries in your backyard.
Strawberries are one of the easiest fruit crops for the home gardener to grow and one of the most rewarding. Day neutral and everbearing strawberries have been getting all the attention, but there still is no season like June for fresh strawberries. Whatever your zone, there is probably a strawberry plant for your garden. Here's how to grow great strawberries in your backyard.
Perennial Spring Pruning
Four season interest in the garden is nice. Dried flowers hold onto snow like frosting. Seed heads feed the birds. But some perennials don’t handle cold weather well. Plants like Butterfly Weed, Chrysanthemums and Coral Bells benefit from the protection their foliage provides for their crowns and survive best if cleaned up in the spring. The following list is a recommendation of plants that are best pruned in the spring.
Four season interest in the garden is nice. Dried flowers hold onto snow like frosting. Seed heads feed the birds. But some perennials don’t handle cold weather well. Plants like Butterfly Weed, Chrysanthemums and Coral Bells benefit from the protection their foliage provides for their crowns and survive best if cleaned up in the spring. The following list is a recommendation of plants that are best pruned in the spring.
Pruning Clematis
Clematis vines need to be pruned to encourage new growth, which results in more flowers. Pruning clematis comes down to a question of when your clematis blooms. Here are some tips.
Clematis vines need to be pruned to encourage new growth, which results in more flowers. Pruning clematis comes down to a question of when your clematis blooms. Here are some tips.
How To Plant Spring Bulbs
The key to growing healthy, vibrant spring flowering bulbs is to provide them with a great growing environment. Rich well-draining soil and sunshine will reward you with ample flowers for your bulb planting efforts. It doesn't hurt to know which end is up, either. Here are some more tips for growing large, colorful spring flowering bulbs.
The key to growing healthy, vibrant spring flowering bulbs is to provide them with a great growing environment. Rich well-draining soil and sunshine will reward you with ample flowers for your bulb planting efforts. It doesn't hurt to know which end is up, either. Here are some more tips for growing large, colorful spring flowering bulbs.
Preserving Leaves
Fall foliage is a highlight of the season. Colorful leaves may be even more attractive than flowers. However to make an indoor display of fall foliage, it helps if you dry or preserve the leaves first. Luckily this is easy to do and there are 4 basic methods for pressing and preserving colorful fall leaves below.
Fall foliage is a highlight of the season. Colorful leaves may be even more attractive than flowers. However to make an indoor display of fall foliage, it helps if you dry or preserve the leaves first. Luckily this is easy to do and there are 4 basic methods for pressing and preserving colorful fall leaves below.
Growing Amaryllis
Most amaryllis will go dormant naturally and re-bloom sometime during winter. However, many people prefer to force their amaryllis into bloom for the holiday season. Many ‘prepared’ bulbs are sold in the fall, ready to pot up and have in time for Christmas. Here are directions for forcing your Amaryllis for holiday display, as well as general care for your amaryllis plant.
Most amaryllis will go dormant naturally and re-bloom sometime during winter. However, many people prefer to force their amaryllis into bloom for the holiday season. Many ‘prepared’ bulbs are sold in the fall, ready to pot up and have in time for Christmas. Here are directions for forcing your Amaryllis for holiday display, as well as general care for your amaryllis plant.
Leaf Clean-Up
Fall clean-up of leaves is not a chore most gardeners look forward to. One way or another, you are gong to have to collect the leaves from your lawn, raking or otherwise, and there really aren't that many options. Here's some advice and tips in choosing a leaf blower/vac, shredder or even a humble rake, to make quick work of the leaves in your yard.
Fall clean-up of leaves is not a chore most gardeners look forward to. One way or another, you are gong to have to collect the leaves from your lawn, raking or otherwise, and there really aren't that many options. Here's some advice and tips in choosing a leaf blower/vac, shredder or even a humble rake, to make quick work of the leaves in your yard.
Drying Gourds
Ornamental gourds grow as easily as zucchini. But unlike zucchini, there is no limit to what you can do with gourds. By drying ornamental gourds, you can keep them intact indefinitely. Drying gourds is an easy process, but it takes time. Here’s all you need to know about how to dry gourds.
Ornamental gourds grow as easily as zucchini. But unlike zucchini, there is no limit to what you can do with gourds. By drying ornamental gourds, you can keep them intact indefinitely. Drying gourds is an easy process, but it takes time. Here’s all you need to know about how to dry gourds.
Tomato Problems - Tomato Disea
There are many diseases that affect tomatoes. Tomato diseases are often weather dependent and can spread rapidly. Here are some common tomato diseases, their symptoms and what to do if tomato diseases threaten your home vegetable garden.
There are many diseases that affect tomatoes. Tomato diseases are often weather dependent and can spread rapidly. Here are some common tomato diseases, their symptoms and what to do if tomato diseases threaten your home vegetable garden.
Growing Pansies
Pansies are probably the most popularly grown and most recognizable cool season plant. The variety of colors and the cheerfulness of the pansy’s ‘face’ have made them a long standing favorite. And they’re easy and undemanding to grow. Here are some tips to keep your pansies growing and blooming longer.
Pansies are probably the most popularly grown and most recognizable cool season plant. The variety of colors and the cheerfulness of the pansy’s ‘face’ have made them a long standing favorite. And they’re easy and undemanding to grow. Here are some tips to keep your pansies growing and blooming longer.
Forcing Paperwhites
Paperwhites (Narcissus tazetta) are popular indoor plants for winter because they're easy to grow and bloom a long time. Unlike other narcissus, paperwhites don’t require a chilling period, so forcing them is as easy as putting the bulbs in water and waiting. The fragrant flowers bloom within about 2-3 weeks of planting, for almost instant gratification. It's that easy. Here are some tips for forcing paperwhites.
Paperwhites (Narcissus tazetta) are popular indoor plants for winter because they're easy to grow and bloom a long time. Unlike other narcissus, paperwhites don’t require a chilling period, so forcing them is as easy as putting the bulbs in water and waiting. The fragrant flowers bloom within about 2-3 weeks of planting, for almost instant gratification. It's that easy. Here are some tips for forcing paperwhites.
Top 10 Fall Bloomers
The trick to designing your garden with perennial flowers is making sure you have something wonderful in bloom all the time. Each season has its stars and fall blooming perennials have some of the best. Fall blooming perennials have all season to grow, so many of them are tall and stately. Fall bloomers also tend to blossom in the jewel tones of the season, deep purples, rusts, scarlet and gold. Here are some top picks for fall blooming perennial stars.
The trick to designing your garden with perennial flowers is making sure you have something wonderful in bloom all the time. Each season has its stars and fall blooming perennials have some of the best. Fall blooming perennials have all season to grow, so many of them are tall and stately. Fall bloomers also tend to blossom in the jewel tones of the season, deep purples, rusts, scarlet and gold. Here are some top picks for fall blooming perennial stars.
Freezing Herbs
Freezing is a quick and easy way to preserve fresh garden herbs. We usually think of drying herbs to keep them, but many herbs, like basil, mint and chives, don't dry easily. Freezing these herbs will preserve their garden fresh flavor for months. Here are some simple steps for air drying herbs.
Freezing is a quick and easy way to preserve fresh garden herbs. We usually think of drying herbs to keep them, but many herbs, like basil, mint and chives, don't dry easily. Freezing these herbs will preserve their garden fresh flavor for months. Here are some simple steps for air drying herbs.
Over Winter Mums
Mums are everywhere in the fall and they make a tempting impulse buy when in full bloom. Many gardeners do not realize mums are hardy perennials. Maybe you’ve purchased mums labeled ‘hardy’ only to be disappointed the following spring when they didn’t survive. The key to a truly hardy mum is selecting the right variety and giving it time to establish itself in your garden, before winter comes. Here’s a quick tip to helping your garden mums survive the winter.
Mums are everywhere in the fall and they make a tempting impulse buy when in full bloom. Many gardeners do not realize mums are hardy perennials. Maybe you’ve purchased mums labeled ‘hardy’ only to be disappointed the following spring when they didn’t survive. The key to a truly hardy mum is selecting the right variety and giving it time to establish itself in your garden, before winter comes. Here’s a quick tip to helping your garden mums survive the winter.
Windowsill Herbs
Many herb plants can be easily grown indoors, in a sunny windowsill or under lights. You can have a herb garden throughout the winter, with fresh herbs to cook with, in your kitchen. Herbs will grow in containers with minimal care.
Many herb plants can be easily grown indoors, in a sunny windowsill or under lights. You can have a herb garden throughout the winter, with fresh herbs to cook with, in your kitchen. Herbs will grow in containers with minimal care.
Container Vegetable Gardens
You don't need a plot of land to grow fresh vegetables. Vegetable container gardening can offer high yields in small spaces. With some thought to selecting bush or dwarf varieties, almost any vegetable can be adapted to growing in a container or pot. Container vegetable gardening is perfect for plants that take up little space, such as carrots, radishes and lettuce, or crops that bear fruits over a long period of time, such as tomatoes and peppers.
You don't need a plot of land to grow fresh vegetables. Vegetable container gardening can offer high yields in small spaces. With some thought to selecting bush or dwarf varieties, almost any vegetable can be adapted to growing in a container or pot. Container vegetable gardening is perfect for plants that take up little space, such as carrots, radishes and lettuce, or crops that bear fruits over a long period of time, such as tomatoes and peppers.
Growing Plants from Seed
Starting plants from seed isn't rocket science, but there are several seed starting tips that will help your success rate with seed germination and give your seedlings a healthy start. Here's how to start seeds indoors and the seed starting supplies you'll need to grow plants from seed.
Starting plants from seed isn't rocket science, but there are several seed starting tips that will help your success rate with seed germination and give your seedlings a healthy start. Here's how to start seeds indoors and the seed starting supplies you'll need to grow plants from seed.
November in the Garden
A gardening calender for November? Gardening in November is a joy for those who've been waiting for cooler weather and almost non-existant for gardeners in Zones 6 on down. Even though the holidays start to demand more time indoors, there are still some garden tasks that need tending in the November garden.
A gardening calender for November? Gardening in November is a joy for those who've been waiting for cooler weather and almost non-existant for gardeners in Zones 6 on down. Even though the holidays start to demand more time indoors, there are still some garden tasks that need tending in the November garden.
Houseplants You Can't Kill
Easy care houseplants. Houseplants for people who don’t take care of their plants. These 6 indoors plants are extremely hard to kill with neglect, yet they’ll add that homey feel that only plants can bring.
Easy care houseplants. Houseplants for people who don’t take care of their plants. These 6 indoors plants are extremely hard to kill with neglect, yet they’ll add that homey feel that only plants can bring.
Ripening Green Tomatoes
There are always green tomatoes left on the vine in the fall. Deciding whether to pick green tomatoes is a tough call. And then there’s the problem of how to get green tomatoes to ripen. Here are some tips to keep your tomato plants healthy into the fall season and for getting those green tomatoes to ripen on the vine or how to salvage the obstinate green tomatoes you actually have to pick while still green.
There are always green tomatoes left on the vine in the fall. Deciding whether to pick green tomatoes is a tough call. And then there’s the problem of how to get green tomatoes to ripen. Here are some tips to keep your tomato plants healthy into the fall season and for getting those green tomatoes to ripen on the vine or how to salvage the obstinate green tomatoes you actually have to pick while still green.
Hydrangea Types
There are many new hydrangeas on the market that take the guess work out of when or if you need to prune your hydrangea. However many of us have old hydrangea shrubs in our yards that can cause a lot of frustration when they don't bloom. Bloom on an older hydrangea usually depends on when it was pruned. To know when to prune your old fashioned hydrangea, you'll need to know what type of hydrangea it is. Here's some help in identifying your hydrangea.
There are many new hydrangeas on the market that take the guess work out of when or if you need to prune your hydrangea. However many of us have old hydrangea shrubs in our yards that can cause a lot of frustration when they don't bloom. Bloom on an older hydrangea usually depends on when it was pruned. To know when to prune your old fashioned hydrangea, you'll need to know what type of hydrangea it is. Here's some help in identifying your hydrangea.
Overwintering Geraniums
It’s easy to over winter geraniums, either as plants or dormant. Zonal geraniums are only hardy to USDA Zone 8. Gardeners in other areas basically have 4 choices of how to store their geraniums for winter: let them die off as annuals, bring them indoors as houseplants, take cuttings and make more plants or store the geraniums dormant until next spring.
It’s easy to over winter geraniums, either as plants or dormant. Zonal geraniums are only hardy to USDA Zone 8. Gardeners in other areas basically have 4 choices of how to store their geraniums for winter: let them die off as annuals, bring them indoors as houseplants, take cuttings and make more plants or store the geraniums dormant until next spring.
Basil - Growing & Using
Basil is an easy to grow tender annual. The hardest thing about growing basil is choosing which varieties to grow. Give basil some sun and good soil and you can pick leaves daily all summer long. And picking the leaves is what will keep your basil producing for the whole season. Here are some suggestions for great basil varieties and how to grow basil in your home garden.
Basil is an easy to grow tender annual. The hardest thing about growing basil is choosing which varieties to grow. Give basil some sun and good soil and you can pick leaves daily all summer long. And picking the leaves is what will keep your basil producing for the whole season. Here are some suggestions for great basil varieties and how to grow basil in your home garden.
Poinsettias
Poinsettias are popular holiday decorations and gifts. Knowing how to keep Christmas poinsettia plants in bloom longer and how to force them to rebloom next Christmas, requires some special care.
Poinsettias are popular holiday decorations and gifts. Knowing how to keep Christmas poinsettia plants in bloom longer and how to force them to rebloom next Christmas, requires some special care.
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
It is always confusing knowing whether to prune flowering trees and shrubs in the spring or wait until they bloom. Most spring bloomers should be trimmed after blooming, but not all. Here's a list of common landscape trees and shrubs and when to prune them.
It is always confusing knowing whether to prune flowering trees and shrubs in the spring or wait until they bloom. Most spring bloomers should be trimmed after blooming, but not all. Here's a list of common landscape trees and shrubs and when to prune them.
Plant Pruning FAQ
Most plants benefit from some sort of regular pruning and maintenance. The trick is in know when to prune what. It’s confusing, but rarely fatal. Pruning at the wrong time of year may result in less flowers and fruits, but it usually won’t harm the plant in the long run To help you take the guess work out of pruning, here is a series of articles to help you learn when to prune the plants in your garden.
Most plants benefit from some sort of regular pruning and maintenance. The trick is in know when to prune what. It’s confusing, but rarely fatal. Pruning at the wrong time of year may result in less flowers and fruits, but it usually won’t harm the plant in the long run To help you take the guess work out of pruning, here is a series of articles to help you learn when to prune the plants in your garden.
Evergreen Privacy Hedge
Planting a Hedge. There are many evergreen trees and shrubs that make excellent hedges, privacy screens and wind or noise breaks. Some mature quickly into dense hedges and others develop with you, over time. Choose an evergreen that suits your time frame for growth and maintenance. Here are 10 of the best evergreens for creating a hedge.
Planting a Hedge. There are many evergreen trees and shrubs that make excellent hedges, privacy screens and wind or noise breaks. Some mature quickly into dense hedges and others develop with you, over time. Choose an evergreen that suits your time frame for growth and maintenance. Here are 10 of the best evergreens for creating a hedge.
Growing Bamboo
Does the idea of bamboo growing in your garden spark fear or longing in you? How bad can bamboo be if all the garden magazines are touting it? Bamboo can be grown successfully and safetly in home gardens, but you need to know what kind of bamboo you are getting and you need to take care that it doesn't take over.
Does the idea of bamboo growing in your garden spark fear or longing in you? How bad can bamboo be if all the garden magazines are touting it? Bamboo can be grown successfully and safetly in home gardens, but you need to know what kind of bamboo you are getting and you need to take care that it doesn't take over.
Low Maintenance Plants
Low maintenance perennial plant. There is such a thing as a low maintenance plant. It may vary from climate to climate and season to season, but there are many wonderful perennial flowers and other plants that can be labeled low maintenance, providing undemanding easy care interest and bloom in the perennial border.
Low maintenance perennial plant. There is such a thing as a low maintenance plant. It may vary from climate to climate and season to season, but there are many wonderful perennial flowers and other plants that can be labeled low maintenance, providing undemanding easy care interest and bloom in the perennial border.
Growing Hardy Mums
Mums are grown in just about every fall garden. Too often mums are an impulse buy at the nursery, when already in bloom late in the season. Chrysanthemums can actually be hardy perennials in most gardening zones, if planted early enough to become established. Mums are easy growing plants that will bloom as other plants fade, if pinched during the growing season. There are many more varieties of mums than you’ve probably seen, all worth taking a look.
Mums are grown in just about every fall garden. Too often mums are an impulse buy at the nursery, when already in bloom late in the season. Chrysanthemums can actually be hardy perennials in most gardening zones, if planted early enough to become established. Mums are easy growing plants that will bloom as other plants fade, if pinched during the growing season. There are many more varieties of mums than you’ve probably seen, all worth taking a look.
A - Z Guide to Plant Information
An alphbetized listing of plants with info on selecting, growing and using plants in garden design. Includes: flowers, vegetables, fruits, herbs and more
An alphbetized listing of plants with info on selecting, growing and using plants in garden design. Includes: flowers, vegetables, fruits, herbs and more
Paperwhites & Alcohol
A problem when growing paperwhites is that they grow quite tall and top heavy and can fall over. Researchers in the Flowerbulb Research Program at Cornell University have come up with an unusual solution to this problem: Alcohol. When paperwhite bulbs are grown in a dilute solution of alcohol, the plants don't grow as tall as they normally would - but the flowers remain normal size and last just as long. Why they thought of giving their paperwhites a nip, I don’t know.
A problem when growing paperwhites is that they grow quite tall and top heavy and can fall over. Researchers in the Flowerbulb Research Program at Cornell University have come up with an unusual solution to this problem: Alcohol. When paperwhite bulbs are grown in a dilute solution of alcohol, the plants don't grow as tall as they normally would - but the flowers remain normal size and last just as long. Why they thought of giving their paperwhites a nip, I don’t know.
More Plants From Cuttings
Increase the plants in your home and garden by taking cuttings from existing plants and rooting them to make more plants.
Increase the plants in your home and garden by taking cuttings from existing plants and rooting them to make more plants.
Growing Oregano
Growing, harvesting and using oregano is easy, but sometimes confusing. Plants in the genus Origanum are can be perennial ground covers, tender perennials or even small perennial subshrubs. There is much confusion over what type of oregano to use in cooking, but there is no disputing the flavor when you taste it. This Plant Profile of 'Oregano' will help you make sense of which type of oregano to grow for your needs.
Growing, harvesting and using oregano is easy, but sometimes confusing. Plants in the genus Origanum are can be perennial ground covers, tender perennials or even small perennial subshrubs. There is much confusion over what type of oregano to use in cooking, but there is no disputing the flavor when you taste it. This Plant Profile of 'Oregano' will help you make sense of which type of oregano to grow for your needs.
Dividing Bearded Iris
Bearded Iris are tall, elegant additions to the flower border, but they are also relatively high maintenance. You can help cut down on the incidence of soft rot and borer damage through regular division of the iris rhizomes, every 2-3 years. This will also keep bearded iris performing and blooming at its best. Dividing iris isn't hard. Start by carefully digging and lifting the rhizomes, as shown here.
Bearded Iris are tall, elegant additions to the flower border, but they are also relatively high maintenance. You can help cut down on the incidence of soft rot and borer damage through regular division of the iris rhizomes, every 2-3 years. This will also keep bearded iris performing and blooming at its best. Dividing iris isn't hard. Start by carefully digging and lifting the rhizomes, as shown here.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is one of the most common and easily recognized plant diseases. Almost no type of plant is immune. As the name implies, powdery mildew looks like powdery splotches of white or gray, on the leaves and stems of plants. Although powdery mildew is unattractive, it is rarely fatal. However severe or repetitive infections will weaken the plant. There are several steps a gardener can take to prevent and control powdery mildew in the garden.
Powdery mildew is one of the most common and easily recognized plant diseases. Almost no type of plant is immune. As the name implies, powdery mildew looks like powdery splotches of white or gray, on the leaves and stems of plants. Although powdery mildew is unattractive, it is rarely fatal. However severe or repetitive infections will weaken the plant. There are several steps a gardener can take to prevent and control powdery mildew in the garden.
What are Rose Hips?
Rose hips are the seed pods of roses. We don’t often see them anymore, because we tend to prune the faded rose blossoms to encourage more flowers. However if you leave the spent flowers on the rose bush at the end of the season, you should see these small, berry-sized, reddish seed balls, left on tips of the stems. Rose hips are actually very ornamental and birds enjoy them too. They are also edible and a good source of vitamin C. Here’s how to harvest and use your rose hips.
Rose hips are the seed pods of roses. We don’t often see them anymore, because we tend to prune the faded rose blossoms to encourage more flowers. However if you leave the spent flowers on the rose bush at the end of the season, you should see these small, berry-sized, reddish seed balls, left on tips of the stems. Rose hips are actually very ornamental and birds enjoy them too. They are also edible and a good source of vitamin C. Here’s how to harvest and use your rose hips.
Plant Nutrient Deficiencies
Not all plant problems are caused by insects or diseases. Sometimes an unhealthy plant is suffering from a nutrient deficiency or even too much of any one nutrient. Plant nutrient deficiencies often manifest as foliage discoloration. The following chart outlines some possible problems.
Not all plant problems are caused by insects or diseases. Sometimes an unhealthy plant is suffering from a nutrient deficiency or even too much of any one nutrient. Plant nutrient deficiencies often manifest as foliage discoloration. The following chart outlines some possible problems.
Pruning Lilacs
If lilacs are left to grow and spread on their own, without maintenance pruning, you will get shrubs reaching 15 - 20' in height and all the blooms will be way above your head. Lilac plants that have a balance of new shoots and older stems, will bloom best. Older lilacs can have stems as thick as small trees and will flower only on the top most branches. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to rejuvenate an old lilac, in about 3 years time. How to Prune Lilacs...
If lilacs are left to grow and spread on their own, without maintenance pruning, you will get shrubs reaching 15 - 20' in height and all the blooms will be way above your head. Lilac plants that have a balance of new shoots and older stems, will bloom best. Older lilacs can have stems as thick as small trees and will flower only on the top most branches. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to rejuvenate an old lilac, in about 3 years time. How to Prune Lilacs...
Amending Your Garden Soil
Most garden plant problems are caused by poor soil. What is good soil and how do you know what kind of soil is in your garden? Understanding your garden soil means knowing its fertility and texture. Fertility is a combination of essential nutrients and a pH that makes these nutrients available to the plants. Texture refers to the size of the soil particles and their cohesiveness.
Most garden plant problems are caused by poor soil. What is good soil and how do you know what kind of soil is in your garden? Understanding your garden soil means knowing its fertility and texture. Fertility is a combination of essential nutrients and a pH that makes these nutrients available to the plants. Texture refers to the size of the soil particles and their cohesiveness.
Growing Cannas
Cannas are tropical and subtropical flowering plants with large, banana like leaves. Cannas can be grown as annuals in cooler regions, where they add an instant touch of the tropics to flower gardens. Easy care and dramatic effect make planting cannas worthwhile for any garden border. They can even be grown in pots and
Cannas are tropical and subtropical flowering plants with large, banana like leaves. Cannas can be grown as annuals in cooler regions, where they add an instant touch of the tropics to flower gardens. Easy care and dramatic effect make planting cannas worthwhile for any garden border. They can even be grown in pots and
Pruning & Removing Suckers from Apple Tree Branches
How to Prune Apple Trees - Removing Suckers and Water Sprouts
How to Prune Apple Trees - Removing Suckers and Water Sprouts
Growing Sage
Sage is one of those wonderful Mediterranean herbs that only asks for sun and warmth and then takes care of itself. Being an evergreen, even northern gardeners are able to harvest fresh sage leaves at Thanksgiving. And it's beautiful enough not to have on display in the herb garden or the perennial bed. Here are some tips for growing great sage.
Sage is one of those wonderful Mediterranean herbs that only asks for sun and warmth and then takes care of itself. Being an evergreen, even northern gardeners are able to harvest fresh sage leaves at Thanksgiving. And it's beautiful enough not to have on display in the herb garden or the perennial bed. Here are some tips for growing great sage.
Growing Sedum
Border Sedum or Showy Stonecrop is a must for every perennial garden. The sturdy stems, succulent leaves and clusters of flower buds are attractive all season and light up a fall garden. Growing Sedum is easy; almost mistake proof. There are Sedum varieties to blend with every color scheme and trailing Sedum to fill container gardens. Here are some tips for growing great Sedum.
Border Sedum or Showy Stonecrop is a must for every perennial garden. The sturdy stems, succulent leaves and clusters of flower buds are attractive all season and light up a fall garden. Growing Sedum is easy; almost mistake proof. There are Sedum varieties to blend with every color scheme and trailing Sedum to fill container gardens. Here are some tips for growing great Sedum.
Small Garden Design
Garden design for a small space has its pros and cons over grand scale gardening. In small garden design, the gardener can pay attention to detail. You can keep on top of maintenance, while still having time to sit and enjoy your small garden. The principles of good garden design still apply, but you’ll need to tweak them slightly. Virtually any plant or garden style can be worked into a small garden space.
Garden design for a small space has its pros and cons over grand scale gardening. In small garden design, the gardener can pay attention to detail. You can keep on top of maintenance, while still having time to sit and enjoy your small garden. The principles of good garden design still apply, but you’ll need to tweak them slightly. Virtually any plant or garden style can be worked into a small garden space.
Baking Soda for Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew and other fungus diseases of plants have long been successfully controlled with a mixture of baking soda, water and and oil or soap to help it spread.
Powdery mildew and other fungus diseases of plants have long been successfully controlled with a mixture of baking soda, water and and oil or soap to help it spread.
Growing Garlic
Garlic is very easy to grow in the home garden. There are hundreds of garlic varieties and the only way you are gong to get to taste them is if you grow them yourself. Read on to learn what types of garlic to grow and how to grow and store your garlic.
Garlic is very easy to grow in the home garden. There are hundreds of garlic varieties and the only way you are gong to get to taste them is if you grow them yourself. Read on to learn what types of garlic to grow and how to grow and store your garlic.
Storing Tender Bulbs
While gardeners in zones 8 and above can grow tender bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers year round, northern gardeners will need to dig and store these plants to overwinter them. The following guidelines will help you to successfully store cannas, caladiums, dahlias, galdiolas and more.
While gardeners in zones 8 and above can grow tender bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers year round, northern gardeners will need to dig and store these plants to overwinter them. The following guidelines will help you to successfully store cannas, caladiums, dahlias, galdiolas and more.
Clearing the Clutter
How to Prune Apple Trees - Thinning Inside Branches
How to Prune Apple Trees - Thinning Inside Branches
Growing Sweet Potatoes
Can you grow sweet potatoes at home? Except for being a long season crop, sweet potatoes are very easy to grow. Even the sweet potato leaves are edible. If you have a small garden, bush sweet potatoes might be a better choice for you. Here are some tips for growing sweet potatoes in any home garden.
Can you grow sweet potatoes at home? Except for being a long season crop, sweet potatoes are very easy to grow. Even the sweet potato leaves are edible. If you have a small garden, bush sweet potatoes might be a better choice for you. Here are some tips for growing sweet potatoes in any home garden.
Remove Any Wood that is Unproductive and Attracts Problems
Apple Tree Pruning - Removing Dead and Diseased Wood
Apple Tree Pruning - Removing Dead and Diseased Wood
The Main Point Behind Pruning Apple Trees
How to Prune Apple Trees - Fruiting Spurs
How to Prune Apple Trees - Fruiting Spurs
Garden Catalogs
Gardening catalogs are a great way to learn about new plants, tools and supplies. Many garden catalogs are so full of information, reading them is like reading a book. Garden catalog shopping isn't quite as much fun as gardening, but it's very close. Here is a list of gardening favorites and what they have to offer the gardener.
Gardening catalogs are a great way to learn about new plants, tools and supplies. Many garden catalogs are so full of information, reading them is like reading a book. Garden catalog shopping isn't quite as much fun as gardening, but it's very close. Here is a list of gardening favorites and what they have to offer the gardener.
Pruning Low Branches
Pruning Apple Trees - Removing Low Branches
Pruning Apple Trees - Removing Low Branches
Outward Facing Bud Photo
Pruning Apple Trees - Outward Facing Bud
Pruning Apple Trees - Outward Facing Bud
Vines and Climbing Plants
Vining and climbing flowers and plants can add an element of height to a garden or be allowed to scramble along the ground or through other plants. Vines and climbers can fill many garden design needs, from covering eye sores to creating privacy on your deck. Consider some of these vining plants when planning your landscape.
Vining and climbing flowers and plants can add an element of height to a garden or be allowed to scramble along the ground or through other plants. Vines and climbers can fill many garden design needs, from covering eye sores to creating privacy on your deck. Consider some of these vining plants when planning your landscape.
Harvesting Vegetables
There are no precise guidelines as to when to harvest your vegetables, but there are some rules of thumb to guide you. Most vegetables are harvested just before full maturity, for maximum flavor and the most pleasant texture. The following are vegetable harvesting criteria for judging whether your vegetables are ready for picking.
There are no precise guidelines as to when to harvest your vegetables, but there are some rules of thumb to guide you. Most vegetables are harvested just before full maturity, for maximum flavor and the most pleasant texture. The following are vegetable harvesting criteria for judging whether your vegetables are ready for picking.
Keeping Your Apple Tree Pruned to One Main Leader
Apple Tree Pruning - Competing Leaders
Apple Tree Pruning - Competing Leaders
Pruning Out Future Problems
Pruning Apple Trees - Downward Facing Branches
Pruning Apple Trees - Downward Facing Branches
Cool Season Annuals
Cool weather can be hard to garden in, because you never know how long it will last. But there are many annual flowers that prefer the cool days of spring and fall. Many cool season annuals look wonderful in containers and growing these flowers will make your gardening season seem that much longer. If you live in a warm climate, some of these flowers will bloom from fall through spring.
Cool weather can be hard to garden in, because you never know how long it will last. But there are many annual flowers that prefer the cool days of spring and fall. Many cool season annuals look wonderful in containers and growing these flowers will make your gardening season seem that much longer. If you live in a warm climate, some of these flowers will bloom from fall through spring.
Growing Spinach
Leafy vegetables always taste better fresh from the garden. Spinach, like lettuce, grows best in the cool weather of spring and fall. Spinach also grows extremely quickly, which means you don’t have to wait long to enjoy it, but you’ll also have to keep planting new spinach to extend the harvest. Getting spinach to grow is easy. Keeping your spinach growing takes some finesse. Tips for growing spinach in the home garden.
Leafy vegetables always taste better fresh from the garden. Spinach, like lettuce, grows best in the cool weather of spring and fall. Spinach also grows extremely quickly, which means you don’t have to wait long to enjoy it, but you’ll also have to keep planting new spinach to extend the harvest. Getting spinach to grow is easy. Keeping your spinach growing takes some finesse. Tips for growing spinach in the home garden.
Here's What You're Aiming For
How to Prune Apple Trees
How to Prune Apple Trees
How to Grow Potatoes
Growing potatoes in the home garden can be easy, if you learn to avoid the pest and disease problems. Potatoes are one of those mystery crops that develop out of sight, underground. You never really know how you’re doing until you harvest - and then it’s too late. Here are the basics on how to grow potatoes.
Growing potatoes in the home garden can be easy, if you learn to avoid the pest and disease problems. Potatoes are one of those mystery crops that develop out of sight, underground. You never really know how you’re doing until you harvest - and then it’s too late. Here are the basics on how to grow potatoes.
Growing Thyme
Thyme is an extremely easy growing Mediterranean herb that prefers dry, lean growing conditions. In fact, thyme almost grows itself. You can grow thyme in herb gardens, on rock walls, between pavers or even indoors. Here are some tips on growing and using great thyme.
Thyme is an extremely easy growing Mediterranean herb that prefers dry, lean growing conditions. In fact, thyme almost grows itself. You can grow thyme in herb gardens, on rock walls, between pavers or even indoors. Here are some tips on growing and using great thyme.
Garden Design FAQ
Gardening is often called the only living art form. Like any form of art, designing a garden is subjective. Although gardening successfully requires learning certain skills, in the end, a garden’s beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There are no fixed rules to garden design. But there are a few elements of composition that will serve the garden designer well, when combining plants. And the only way to get good at garden design is to do it.
Gardening is often called the only living art form. Like any form of art, designing a garden is subjective. Although gardening successfully requires learning certain skills, in the end, a garden’s beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There are no fixed rules to garden design. But there are a few elements of composition that will serve the garden designer well, when combining plants. And the only way to get good at garden design is to do it.
Zone_Changes
The USDA Hardiness Zone Map has been used by gardeners to determine what plants will survive in their garden climate. The latest revisions by the American Horticulture Society, add zones and take into consideration more than just annual low temperatures. Other hardiness measures include: length of cold spells in the winter, airflow patterns, the effect of large bodies of water like oceans and lakes and heat factors and how these things effect garden plants.
The USDA Hardiness Zone Map has been used by gardeners to determine what plants will survive in their garden climate. The latest revisions by the American Horticulture Society, add zones and take into consideration more than just annual low temperatures. Other hardiness measures include: length of cold spells in the winter, airflow patterns, the effect of large bodies of water like oceans and lakes and heat factors and how these things effect garden plants.
Saving Tomato Seeds
Seed saving is the only way to make sure you have seeds of your favorite plants to grow each year. Tomato seeds need special handling to ensure good germination. Here's how to begin saving tomato seeds.
Seed saving is the only way to make sure you have seeds of your favorite plants to grow each year. Tomato seeds need special handling to ensure good germination. Here's how to begin saving tomato seeds.
Growing Miniature Roses
Miniature roses deliver all the punch of full size roses in a size that suits any garden. They may look delicate, but miniature roses are hardier than many tea roses and much easier to grow. Great as a specimen, an edger or in containers, mini roses are easy care plants that bloom throughout the season.
Miniature roses deliver all the punch of full size roses in a size that suits any garden. They may look delicate, but miniature roses are hardier than many tea roses and much easier to grow. Great as a specimen, an edger or in containers, mini roses are easy care plants that bloom throughout the season.
Pest ID Web Sites
When insect pests attack your garden plants, the first line of defense is to identify the insect. To control insects in your garden, you need to know what kind of insect you are dealing with, what plants it favors and what time of year to expect it. These web sites provide photos for identifying pests and most also give info on controlling the garden pests.
When insect pests attack your garden plants, the first line of defense is to identify the insect. To control insects in your garden, you need to know what kind of insect you are dealing with, what plants it favors and what time of year to expect it. These web sites provide photos for identifying pests and most also give info on controlling the garden pests.
Raking Leaves
Cleaning up fallen leaves is an inevitable garden chore for most of us. New leaf vacuums, blowers and improved lawn rakes can make the job easier. The following are top picks of leaf pick-up tools.
Cleaning up fallen leaves is an inevitable garden chore for most of us. New leaf vacuums, blowers and improved lawn rakes can make the job easier. The following are top picks of leaf pick-up tools.
True Geraniums
The term geranium is confusing. The first geranium most gardeners encounter is not a geranium at all, but Pelargonium, a relative of the perennial geranium. True or hardy or perennial geraniums belong to the genus Geranium. You will sometimes see them referred to as cranesbill geraniums, because their seed pods do somewhat resemble a crane’s bill. The flowers, in shades of white, pink, magenta, purples and blues, are long blooming. As you see here, geraniums are easy care.
The term geranium is confusing. The first geranium most gardeners encounter is not a geranium at all, but Pelargonium, a relative of the perennial geranium. True or hardy or perennial geraniums belong to the genus Geranium. You will sometimes see them referred to as cranesbill geraniums, because their seed pods do somewhat resemble a crane’s bill. The flowers, in shades of white, pink, magenta, purples and blues, are long blooming. As you see here, geraniums are easy care.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis are sunny flower border work horses. They are great additions to any garden design, blooming most of the summer. Coreopsis make great garden edging as well as nice cut flowers.
Coreopsis are sunny flower border work horses. They are great additions to any garden design, blooming most of the summer. Coreopsis make great garden edging as well as nice cut flowers.
Fall and Winter Greens
Cool weather vegetable gardening offers many advantages, not the least of which is the colorful choice of crops that can be grown, like 'Bright Lights' chard, ‘Red Russian’ Brussels sprouts, ‘Osaka Purple’ mustard greens or any of the many other suggestions offered here by Cathy Wilkinson Barash for the National Garden Bureau. Extend your vegetable gardening season and try something new. Here are some growing tips and variety selections.
Cool weather vegetable gardening offers many advantages, not the least of which is the colorful choice of crops that can be grown, like 'Bright Lights' chard, ‘Red Russian’ Brussels sprouts, ‘Osaka Purple’ mustard greens or any of the many other suggestions offered here by Cathy Wilkinson Barash for the National Garden Bureau. Extend your vegetable gardening season and try something new. Here are some growing tips and variety selections.
Plants for Clay Soil
Gardening in clay soil is a challenge that can be met. Their are many plants that will grow very well in clay soil and some that will even help improve it. Rugged natives and tough, tap rooted plants can make a garden even in the difficult conditions posed by clay. Here are some to get you started.
Gardening in clay soil is a challenge that can be met. Their are many plants that will grow very well in clay soil and some that will even help improve it. Rugged natives and tough, tap rooted plants can make a garden even in the difficult conditions posed by clay. Here are some to get you started.
Perovskia
Perovskia, or Russian Sage, is a widely popular perennial garden favorite. The foliage is finely cut gray-green leaves that are slightly scented. When fully in bloom it looks like a purple haze. As you can see here, these plants are very easy to grow.
Perovskia, or Russian Sage, is a widely popular perennial garden favorite. The foliage is finely cut gray-green leaves that are slightly scented. When fully in bloom it looks like a purple haze. As you can see here, these plants are very easy to grow.
Growing Kale
Growing kale is an easy and very rewarding crop for the home gardener. This cooking green is as beautiful to look at as it is tasty to eat and it attracts very few pests or problems. The secret to growing great kale is cool temperatures and plenty of water. Here’s how to have your best crop ever.
Growing kale is an easy and very rewarding crop for the home gardener. This cooking green is as beautiful to look at as it is tasty to eat and it attracts very few pests or problems. The secret to growing great kale is cool temperatures and plenty of water. Here’s how to have your best crop ever.
Long Blooming Perennials
Long blooming and repeat blooming perennial flowers form the backbone of garden design. Large blocks of color add impact to a garden and the best way to achieve that is with long blooming perennial flowers, like Rudbeckia, Sedum and Veronica. Here are some more perennial plants to consider.
Long blooming and repeat blooming perennial flowers form the backbone of garden design. Large blocks of color add impact to a garden and the best way to achieve that is with long blooming perennial flowers, like Rudbeckia, Sedum and Veronica. Here are some more perennial plants to consider.
New Garden
Starting your first garden shouldn't be a daunting task. Probably the best piece of advice is - Start Small. If you're frozen in your steps, wondering what to plant, where to plant it, how to not kill it..., here's a bottom line Step-by-Step primer for you. Veteran gardeners, how many times have you been asked for help from frazzled first timers. Here are some tips to pass along.
Starting your first garden shouldn't be a daunting task. Probably the best piece of advice is - Start Small. If you're frozen in your steps, wondering what to plant, where to plant it, how to not kill it..., here's a bottom line Step-by-Step primer for you. Veteran gardeners, how many times have you been asked for help from frazzled first timers. Here are some tips to pass along.
Cutting Back Ornamental Grass
If you don't cut back your ornamental grasses in the fall, they can provide winter interest well into the spring. But eventually you will have to cut back those ornamental grasses and it can be a messy proposition. Here's a quick and easy way to cut back your ornamental grasses without having them spill all over the garden.
If you don't cut back your ornamental grasses in the fall, they can provide winter interest well into the spring. But eventually you will have to cut back those ornamental grasses and it can be a messy proposition. Here's a quick and easy way to cut back your ornamental grasses without having them spill all over the garden.
Growing Lamb's Ears
Lamb's Ears are popular in gardens because of their soft, inviting texture. They are very easy to grow almost anywhere. This profile of Lamb's Ears, Stachys byzantina, gives you their preferences and recommends varieties for your garden.
Lamb's Ears are popular in gardens because of their soft, inviting texture. They are very easy to grow almost anywhere. This profile of Lamb's Ears, Stachys byzantina, gives you their preferences and recommends varieties for your garden.
Growing Asparagus
Asparagus is one of the few perennial plants for the home vegetable garden. Plant it once and it keeps on growing. There is some up front work to be done by the vegetable gardener, before you can enjoy an asparagus harvest, but a well-established asparagus bed can produce for decades. Here are some tips for growing great asparagus plants.
Asparagus is one of the few perennial plants for the home vegetable garden. Plant it once and it keeps on growing. There is some up front work to be done by the vegetable gardener, before you can enjoy an asparagus harvest, but a well-established asparagus bed can produce for decades. Here are some tips for growing great asparagus plants.
Purple Foliage Plants
Foliage has taken center stage in the garden. Purple foliage not only provides color all season, it blends well and highlights other colors in the garden. There seems to be a never ending stream of new purple plants for sale. Here are the top choices of plantsman Tim Wood, resident horticulturist for Spring Meadow Nursery. purple foliage plants, purple plants, plants with purple or red leaves,
Foliage has taken center stage in the garden. Purple foliage not only provides color all season, it blends well and highlights other colors in the garden. There seems to be a never ending stream of new purple plants for sale. Here are the top choices of plantsman Tim Wood, resident horticulturist for Spring Meadow Nursery. purple foliage plants, purple plants, plants with purple or red leaves,
Hybrid Tea Roses
Hybrid tea roses are the most popular rose in the world and perhaps the most popular flower. Hybrid teas have all the virtues you look for in a flower: beauty, fragrance and easy care. As with any other type of plant, not all hybrid teas are created equal. However, the idea that hybrid teas are fussier than other rose types is unwarranted. The key, as always, is to choose a variety suited to your climate and zone.
Hybrid tea roses are the most popular rose in the world and perhaps the most popular flower. Hybrid teas have all the virtues you look for in a flower: beauty, fragrance and easy care. As with any other type of plant, not all hybrid teas are created equal. However, the idea that hybrid teas are fussier than other rose types is unwarranted. The key, as always, is to choose a variety suited to your climate and zone.
Container Garden Tips
Container gardening offers many conveniences. Good soil, easy access and the ability to correct mistakes quickly are just a few. These rules of thumb can help you successfully combine plants to create a container garden.
Container gardening offers many conveniences. Good soil, easy access and the ability to correct mistakes quickly are just a few. These rules of thumb can help you successfully combine plants to create a container garden.
Growing Petunias
Petunias are one of the most popular bedding flowers and new types of petunias are constantly being introduced. Here are some petunia basics to guide you through grandifloras, waves, supertunias and more, as well as how to grow and care for your petunias and keep them blooming all summer.
Petunias are one of the most popular bedding flowers and new types of petunias are constantly being introduced. Here are some petunia basics to guide you through grandifloras, waves, supertunias and more, as well as how to grow and care for your petunias and keep them blooming all summer.
Backyard Frog Pond
Backyard Frog Pond
Backyard Frog Pond
Reading a Fertilizer Label
How to make sense of the numbers on your plant fertilizer bag and choose the right product for your plants.
How to make sense of the numbers on your plant fertilizer bag and choose the right product for your plants.
Double Wheel Wheelbarrow
Wheelbarrows and garden carts are indispensable garden tools. There will always be things to haul around the garden and there is no substitution for a wheelbarrow or garden cart. But which wheelbarrow or cart will suit your needs and fit your gardening style? Here are 10 top picks of garden wheelbarrows and carts to get you thinking.
Wheelbarrows and garden carts are indispensable garden tools. There will always be things to haul around the garden and there is no substitution for a wheelbarrow or garden cart. But which wheelbarrow or cart will suit your needs and fit your gardening style? Here are 10 top picks of garden wheelbarrows and carts to get you thinking.
Organic Pesticides
Profiles of the most commonly used organic garden pesticides, including Sevin, insecticidal soap and oils and neem.
Profiles of the most commonly used organic garden pesticides, including Sevin, insecticidal soap and oils and neem.
Fragrant Roses
All roses are beautiful, but fragrant roses are extra special. And who would be better qualified than the 'All America Rose Selections' to clue us into some great growing roses with exceptional fragrance. Here are their picks from the last 5 decades.
All roses are beautiful, but fragrant roses are extra special. And who would be better qualified than the 'All America Rose Selections' to clue us into some great growing roses with exceptional fragrance. Here are their picks from the last 5 decades.
Epsom Salts and Plants
Gardeners have been using Epsom salts as a plant fertilizer for generations. There is little research to prove conclusively that Epsom salts have any effect on plants, but many seasoned gardeners cite their own gardens as proof that Epsom salts help certain plants grow stronger and produce better. If you’d like to try experimenting on your own, here are some tips for using Epsom salts in your gardens.
Gardeners have been using Epsom salts as a plant fertilizer for generations. There is little research to prove conclusively that Epsom salts have any effect on plants, but many seasoned gardeners cite their own gardens as proof that Epsom salts help certain plants grow stronger and produce better. If you’d like to try experimenting on your own, here are some tips for using Epsom salts in your gardens.
Growing Onions
Growing onions takes patience, since all the action takes place under ground. If you can provide a rich soil and a full day of sun, you can grow a good sized harvest of onions for eating fresh and storing for later. And as with most fresh vegetables, onions from the garden will have far more flavor than onions from the produce aisle. Home grown onions can be more pungent too. Here are some tips for choosing and growing the right onions for your home garden.
Growing onions takes patience, since all the action takes place under ground. If you can provide a rich soil and a full day of sun, you can grow a good sized harvest of onions for eating fresh and storing for later. And as with most fresh vegetables, onions from the garden will have far more flavor than onions from the produce aisle. Home grown onions can be more pungent too. Here are some tips for choosing and growing the right onions for your home garden.
Growing Winter Squash - Winter Squash is More Than Pumpkins
Many winter squash varieties are good choices for the home vegetable garden.
Many winter squash varieties are good choices for the home vegetable garden.
Astilbes
Astilbes are long-blooming plume-like flowers held above airy foliage. Astilbes are one of the easiest perennial flowers to grow, but they give a high return. Virtually pest free, they can light up the shade garden.
Astilbes are long-blooming plume-like flowers held above airy foliage. Astilbes are one of the easiest perennial flowers to grow, but they give a high return. Virtually pest free, they can light up the shade garden.
Vegetable Garden Overview
Photo of a well maintained vegetable garden
Photo of a well maintained vegetable garden
Using Wood Ash in the Garden
Is wood ash good for garden soil? Will it do more harm than good? That depends on your soil and, of course, on the wood that was burned. Here are some thoughts to consider before you put wood ash on your garden plants.
Is wood ash good for garden soil? Will it do more harm than good? That depends on your soil and, of course, on the wood that was burned. Here are some thoughts to consider before you put wood ash on your garden plants.
Growing Sweet Peas
Sweet peas evoke old fashioned cottage gardens, with their fluttering blossoms and intense fragrance. Growing sweet pea vines in the garden is both simple and rewarding, with a long season of bloom and an abundance of cutting flowers.
Sweet peas evoke old fashioned cottage gardens, with their fluttering blossoms and intense fragrance. Growing sweet pea vines in the garden is both simple and rewarding, with a long season of bloom and an abundance of cutting flowers.
Tomatoes - Growing Tomatoes
Tips for growing great tomatoes and trouble shooting tomato growing problems.
Tips for growing great tomatoes and trouble shooting tomato growing problems.
Garden Soil
Soil is often viewed as the boring part of gardening. While garden soil will never be glamourous or even as interesting as choosing plants, there is a whole world under our Wellingtons that literally and figuratively is the foundation for our gardens. New gardeners are cautioned to put money and effort into improving their soil before they even consider planting, but few appreciate this wisdom. Here's why you should.
Soil is often viewed as the boring part of gardening. While garden soil will never be glamourous or even as interesting as choosing plants, there is a whole world under our Wellingtons that literally and figuratively is the foundation for our gardens. New gardeners are cautioned to put money and effort into improving their soil before they even consider planting, but few appreciate this wisdom. Here's why you should.
Planting Bulbs in a Lawn
Planting bulbs to naturalize in your lawn is an easy way to put on a great display of spring color. However while planting the bulbs is easy, there are a few things to consider when planning and caring for bulbs planted in a lawn.
Planting bulbs to naturalize in your lawn is an easy way to put on a great display of spring color. However while planting the bulbs is easy, there are a few things to consider when planning and caring for bulbs planted in a lawn.
Growing Winter Squash
Growing Winter squash can intimidate home gardeners. They grow on large vines, take all season to mature and then what do you do with them. There are also so many of them, it’s hard to know what’s worth growing. Acorn squash, Hubbards, spaghetti? Here’s a breakdown of the most popular winter squash varieties, how to grow them and how to use them.
Growing Winter squash can intimidate home gardeners. They grow on large vines, take all season to mature and then what do you do with them. There are also so many of them, it’s hard to know what’s worth growing. Acorn squash, Hubbards, spaghetti? Here’s a breakdown of the most popular winter squash varieties, how to grow them and how to use them.
Plant Lights
Starting seeds indoors usually requires some type of supplemental plant lighting. Your choice of plant lights depends on how many seedlings you are starting. Choices range from single lamp bulbs on up to 1000 watt high intensity lights. Follow these guidelines to choose which plant light system is right for you.
Starting seeds indoors usually requires some type of supplemental plant lighting. Your choice of plant lights depends on how many seedlings you are starting. Choices range from single lamp bulbs on up to 1000 watt high intensity lights. Follow these guidelines to choose which plant light system is right for you.
Growing Catmint (Nepeta)
Catmint (Nepeta) is extremely hardy, drought tolerant and virtually maintenance free. All this and nepeta repeat blooms sporadically throughout the summer. Such a wonderful garden plant should be more widely appreciated and used by gardeners. Take another look here, at the pleasure of growing nepeta and its usefulness in any garden design.
Catmint (Nepeta) is extremely hardy, drought tolerant and virtually maintenance free. All this and nepeta repeat blooms sporadically throughout the summer. Such a wonderful garden plant should be more widely appreciated and used by gardeners. Take another look here, at the pleasure of growing nepeta and its usefulness in any garden design.
The Year of the Chile Pepper
Are all chile peppers created equal? The National Garden Bureau sorts of the variety of hot peppers available by grouping them by their heat and shape, as listed here.
Are all chile peppers created equal? The National Garden Bureau sorts of the variety of hot peppers available by grouping them by their heat and shape, as listed here.
Soilless Potting Mix
Starting plants from seed is a lot of fun, but it’s not so much fun to watch them wither and die shortly after germination. One way to gain an advantage is to use a sterile potting mix, because you never know what problems come along with soil from the garden. If you’re going with a potting mix anyway, you might want the further advantages a soilless mix brings. Here’s a rundown on what’s in the potting mix if you leave out the soil, and why you’d bother to in the first place.
Starting plants from seed is a lot of fun, but it’s not so much fun to watch them wither and die shortly after germination. One way to gain an advantage is to use a sterile potting mix, because you never know what problems come along with soil from the garden. If you’re going with a potting mix anyway, you might want the further advantages a soilless mix brings. Here’s a rundown on what’s in the potting mix if you leave out the soil, and why you’d bother to in the first place.
Patio Garden Design
Gardening on your patio or terrace creates an extension of your home. An outdoor room that serves the dual purpose of being an outdoor room without walls and a place to indulge in gardening. A patio garden is limited only by your aspirations. Designing a garden on or around your patio or terrace can create a place to enjoy and entertain or a place to indulge your green thumb on a smaller scale.
Gardening on your patio or terrace creates an extension of your home. An outdoor room that serves the dual purpose of being an outdoor room without walls and a place to indulge in gardening. A patio garden is limited only by your aspirations. Designing a garden on or around your patio or terrace can create a place to enjoy and entertain or a place to indulge your green thumb on a smaller scale.
Drying Flowers
Save your garden's beauty by drying and preserving your flowers. Methods include air drying, speeding the drying process with silica gel and even easier, microwaving flower buds. Drying flowers is an easy way to extend your garden season.
Save your garden's beauty by drying and preserving your flowers. Methods include air drying, speeding the drying process with silica gel and even easier, microwaving flower buds. Drying flowers is an easy way to extend your garden season.
Deer Resistant Plants
If deer are in your area, sooner or later they will find your garden. Plant wisely by choosing deer resistant plants. Use the lists here to help find plants deer don't like.
If deer are in your area, sooner or later they will find your garden. Plant wisely by choosing deer resistant plants. Use the lists here to help find plants deer don't like.
How to Dry Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are one of those flowers that almost dry themselves. Once dry, they can last and look beautiful for years. You can dry hydrangeas several ways, but I’ve found the best way to dry hydrangea flowers is the water drying method. This drying method helps the hydrangea flowers retain their color and last longer. Here’s how.
Hydrangeas are one of those flowers that almost dry themselves. Once dry, they can last and look beautiful for years. You can dry hydrangeas several ways, but I’ve found the best way to dry hydrangea flowers is the water drying method. This drying method helps the hydrangea flowers retain their color and last longer. Here’s how.
What is Mulch
Mulch is any type of material that is spread or laid over the surface of the soil as a covering. It is used to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, keep the soil cool and make the garden bed look more attractive. Organic mulches also help improve the soil’s fertility, as they decompose. Here are the pros and cons of various mulch materials.
Mulch is any type of material that is spread or laid over the surface of the soil as a covering. It is used to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, keep the soil cool and make the garden bed look more attractive. Organic mulches also help improve the soil’s fertility, as they decompose. Here are the pros and cons of various mulch materials.
Tomato Plant Problems
Growing tomatoes are subject to a lot of diseases. Many tomato problems don't show themselves until the fruit starts to ripen? With blossom end rot, green shoulders and tomato cracking, what can be done to save the ripening tomatoes? How can these problems be reduced with future tomatoes?
Growing tomatoes are subject to a lot of diseases. Many tomato problems don't show themselves until the fruit starts to ripen? With blossom end rot, green shoulders and tomato cracking, what can be done to save the ripening tomatoes? How can these problems be reduced with future tomatoes?
Planning a Great Fall Garden
Fall gardening may be the best of all worlds. There's no spring rush to get things planted and pruned, the weather is pleasant enough to spend the day outside. Even the bugs are less of a pest. To insure that you have a great fall garden, you need to get the fall bloomers in the ground a few months earlier. Include at least a few fall blooming perennials in your garden bed, some shrubs with fall interest and don't overlook ornamental grasses, which often peak for the fall garden.
Fall gardening may be the best of all worlds. There's no spring rush to get things planted and pruned, the weather is pleasant enough to spend the day outside. Even the bugs are less of a pest. To insure that you have a great fall garden, you need to get the fall bloomers in the ground a few months earlier. Include at least a few fall blooming perennials in your garden bed, some shrubs with fall interest and don't overlook ornamental grasses, which often peak for the fall garden.
Shade Garden Perennials
Shade gardens can be woodland retreats or bursts of color. Many shade garden plants often considered sun lovers actually prefer some shade in hot areas or the peak of summer. Of the many plants that will grow well or even thrive in shade gardens, the following list are top shade garden performers.
Shade gardens can be woodland retreats or bursts of color. Many shade garden plants often considered sun lovers actually prefer some shade in hot areas or the peak of summer. Of the many plants that will grow well or even thrive in shade gardens, the following list are top shade garden performers.
Companion Planting
Companion planting is an age old gardening technique of pairing two or more plants to gain some type of benefit,: vigorous growth, higher yield, repelling pests or attracting predators of common pests. Some companion plantings work, others disappoint. But the idea of strength in diversity is never truer than in the garden and that’s what companion planting provides. Here are some tips for attracting beneficial insects and for companion planting with herbs to repel insect pests.
Companion planting is an age old gardening technique of pairing two or more plants to gain some type of benefit,: vigorous growth, higher yield, repelling pests or attracting predators of common pests. Some companion plantings work, others disappoint. But the idea of strength in diversity is never truer than in the garden and that’s what companion planting provides. Here are some tips for attracting beneficial insects and for companion planting with herbs to repel insect pests.
Fall Garden Tasks
Taking some extra time in the fall to prepare your garden for winter will make spring garden clean-up a snap. Removing diseased foliage and amending the soil will also make for a better growing garden next season. It’s not too late to pamper your garden with some easy fall garden tasks.
Taking some extra time in the fall to prepare your garden for winter will make spring garden clean-up a snap. Removing diseased foliage and amending the soil will also make for a better growing garden next season. It’s not too late to pamper your garden with some easy fall garden tasks.
Pole Tree Pruners
Sometimes there's a damaged branch, just out of reach. Or maybe you need to open the canopy or snip off crossing branches. It's frustrating when there's a branch you can't get to it. Ladders are fine, but pruning requires stability and balance. Some clever person came up with pole pruners. How brilliant to attach a long handle to a saw blade. Here's some advice and suggestions on what to look for in pole tree pruners.
Sometimes there's a damaged branch, just out of reach. Or maybe you need to open the canopy or snip off crossing branches. It's frustrating when there's a branch you can't get to it. Ladders are fine, but pruning requires stability and balance. Some clever person came up with pole pruners. How brilliant to attach a long handle to a saw blade. Here's some advice and suggestions on what to look for in pole tree pruners.
Front Yard Gardens
If there is one place that small space gardening should be more widely practiced, it is in front yards. We have surrendered the front of our homes to foundation plantings of overly pruned evergreens and uninspiring dots of geraniums. It is intimidating to experiment in full view of every passer-by, but the pay off is great and I think you’ll find most people, neighbors included, will be delighted.
If there is one place that small space gardening should be more widely practiced, it is in front yards. We have surrendered the front of our homes to foundation plantings of overly pruned evergreens and uninspiring dots of geraniums. It is intimidating to experiment in full view of every passer-by, but the pay off is great and I think you’ll find most people, neighbors included, will be delighted.
Mint
Plants in the mint family are very hardy perennials with vigorous growth habits. Mint, left to its own devices, will spread quickly and become a nuisance. However, it is very popular as a flavorful herb and the plants can be grown easily. Just try to chose a spot where you won’t mind the rampant growth or grow it in a confined space.
Plants in the mint family are very hardy perennials with vigorous growth habits. Mint, left to its own devices, will spread quickly and become a nuisance. However, it is very popular as a flavorful herb and the plants can be grown easily. Just try to chose a spot where you won’t mind the rampant growth or grow it in a confined space.
Tomato Blossom Drop
Blossom drop is a common tomato growing problem that can be extremely frustrating to the home gardener. Otherwise healthy looking tomato plants set flower blossoms, only to have them dry up and fall off the plant before a fruit is formed. Blossom drop can be attributed to several causes, most often related to either temperature and / or stress.
Blossom drop is a common tomato growing problem that can be extremely frustrating to the home gardener. Otherwise healthy looking tomato plants set flower blossoms, only to have them dry up and fall off the plant before a fruit is formed. Blossom drop can be attributed to several causes, most often related to either temperature and / or stress.
Using Cornmeal as a Fungicide
Researchers at Texs A&M have discovered that cornmeal has powerful fungicidal properties and is effective on all kinds of landscape fungus problems, from turf grass to black spot on roses. Here’s how to apply cornmeal to treat fungus problems in your garden.
Researchers at Texs A&M have discovered that cornmeal has powerful fungicidal properties and is effective on all kinds of landscape fungus problems, from turf grass to black spot on roses. Here’s how to apply cornmeal to treat fungus problems in your garden.
Vegetable Gardening in Limited Space
Small Space Vegetable Gardening
Small Space Vegetable Gardening
Spring Flowering Bulbs FAQ
Spring flowering bulbs are easy to grow and a most welcome sight after a long winter. With a little care at planting time, spring blooming bulbs will reward you with years of blooms. Here are frequently asked questions about planting, choosing and caring for spring flowering bulbs.
Spring flowering bulbs are easy to grow and a most welcome sight after a long winter. With a little care at planting time, spring blooming bulbs will reward you with years of blooms. Here are frequently asked questions about planting, choosing and caring for spring flowering bulbs.
SmVegetableGarden
You don’t need a farm to grow fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits. You don’t really even need a garden. Plant breeders know that after taste, home gardeners want a high yield in a small space. So they’ve been developing more varieties that can grow in a small foot print or even live in containers all year long.
You don’t need a farm to grow fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits. You don’t really even need a garden. Plant breeders know that after taste, home gardeners want a high yield in a small space. So they’ve been developing more varieties that can grow in a small foot print or even live in containers all year long.
Using Dwarf Evergreens
The term 'Bones of the Garden' can be difficult to understand, let alone accomplish. Garden Bones refers to using something architectural to define the structure of a garden. Most often we see it in large-scale estate or public gardens, but it is doable in more humble gardens too. One of the best tools for adding bones to your garden design is dwarf conifers. Structural, eye catching, easy to grow and diverse, dwarf conifers show a garden means business. Here are some of the best.
The term 'Bones of the Garden' can be difficult to understand, let alone accomplish. Garden Bones refers to using something architectural to define the structure of a garden. Most often we see it in large-scale estate or public gardens, but it is doable in more humble gardens too. One of the best tools for adding bones to your garden design is dwarf conifers. Structural, eye catching, easy to grow and diverse, dwarf conifers show a garden means business. Here are some of the best.
Choosing Plants for Pots
Container gardening offers immediate gratification. You can experiment with new plants and combinations. If you don’t like the result, start over with minimal trouble. There are no rules for designing a container garden. However, there are certain design principles that can be scaled to container size and make creating effective container gardens an art. Think of them as Rules of Thumb, not Rules per se. Here are some Rules to Guide You and/or Break When Creating Container Gardens.
Container gardening offers immediate gratification. You can experiment with new plants and combinations. If you don’t like the result, start over with minimal trouble. There are no rules for designing a container garden. However, there are certain design principles that can be scaled to container size and make creating effective container gardens an art. Think of them as Rules of Thumb, not Rules per se. Here are some Rules to Guide You and/or Break When Creating Container Gardens.
Creating a Garden to Suit Your Purpose
Small Space Gardening - Creative Fencing
Small Space Gardening - Creative Fencing
Cleaning Houseplants
Is it really necessary to clean houseplants? A layer of dust on the leaves of your houseplants will block sunlight and reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. A clean plant that’s photosynthesizing at optimal levels will be healthier and healthy plants can resist diseases and pest infestations. So cleaning the leaves of your houseplants actually makes less work for you in the long run. Here are some quick tips for keeping your houseplants clean.
Is it really necessary to clean houseplants? A layer of dust on the leaves of your houseplants will block sunlight and reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. A clean plant that’s photosynthesizing at optimal levels will be healthier and healthy plants can resist diseases and pest infestations. So cleaning the leaves of your houseplants actually makes less work for you in the long run. Here are some quick tips for keeping your houseplants clean.
How Much Mulch?
Knowing how much mulch or amendment to purchase for your garden is always a bit of a guess, but you can make it an educated one by using a couple of easy measurements and calculations. Here's how to know how many bags, pounds or cubic yards of mulch will actually give you 3inches of coverage.
Knowing how much mulch or amendment to purchase for your garden is always a bit of a guess, but you can make it an educated one by using a couple of easy measurements and calculations. Here's how to know how many bags, pounds or cubic yards of mulch will actually give you 3inches of coverage.
Garden Magzines - Top Picks
Gardening magazines are monthly garden inspiration. They tell us about new plants, garden design ideas and gardening techniques. Gardening books are like old friends. Garden magazines offer endless new gardening possibilities. Here are my picks for the top gardening magazines.
Gardening magazines are monthly garden inspiration. They tell us about new plants, garden design ideas and gardening techniques. Gardening books are like old friends. Garden magazines offer endless new gardening possibilities. Here are my picks for the top gardening magazines.
Roses from Cuttings
Ever wonder if you could root and grow branches from your favorite rose bush? With a little care, roses root very easily. You won't always get exactly what you started with, but it's fun trying. And here's how.
Ever wonder if you could root and grow branches from your favorite rose bush? With a little care, roses root very easily. You won't always get exactly what you started with, but it's fun trying. And here's how.
Seed Saving
Seed saving is as old as gardening. There was a time when gardeners considered seed from their favorites plants to be treasures well worth saving from year to year. The best reason for saving seeds is because you have a plant you love and want to grow again. Saving your own seed is the only guarantee. Seed saving is also a lot of fun and easy to do.
Seed saving is as old as gardening. There was a time when gardeners considered seed from their favorites plants to be treasures well worth saving from year to year. The best reason for saving seeds is because you have a plant you love and want to grow again. Saving your own seed is the only guarantee. Seed saving is also a lot of fun and easy to do.
Plants for a Small Garden
Every plant looks tempting in the nursery center or catalog. How do you know what will do well in your garden? There are some guidelines for what to consider when shopping for plants for your garden. While there are times to indulge yourself with whatever plant catches your fancy, when designing a small garden, every plant matters. Choose wisely.
Every plant looks tempting in the nursery center or catalog. How do you know what will do well in your garden? There are some guidelines for what to consider when shopping for plants for your garden. While there are times to indulge yourself with whatever plant catches your fancy, when designing a small garden, every plant matters. Choose wisely.
Winter Mulching
In areas that experience freezing temperatures, winter mulching of the garden differs from mulching during the growing season. We mulch our gardens in the spring to suppress weeds, retain moisture and feed and warm the soil. While we may spread a layer of soil conditioning compost or manure in the fall, the primary reason for winter mulching is to protect our plants from the harsh conditions of winter freezes, thaws and winds. There are several ways to do this.
In areas that experience freezing temperatures, winter mulching of the garden differs from mulching during the growing season. We mulch our gardens in the spring to suppress weeds, retain moisture and feed and warm the soil. While we may spread a layer of soil conditioning compost or manure in the fall, the primary reason for winter mulching is to protect our plants from the harsh conditions of winter freezes, thaws and winds. There are several ways to do this.
Plants for Bees
Every garden needs pollinators and bees are among the best. Without them there would be limited flowers and even fewer fruits and vegetables. To attract bees and other pollinators to your gardens you need to select flowers and plants that are high in nectar and pollen and plant so that they are obvious and available to the insects. Here are some tips for luring bees to your garden and lists of good plant choices for bees.
Every garden needs pollinators and bees are among the best. Without them there would be limited flowers and even fewer fruits and vegetables. To attract bees and other pollinators to your gardens you need to select flowers and plants that are high in nectar and pollen and plant so that they are obvious and available to the insects. Here are some tips for luring bees to your garden and lists of good plant choices for bees.
Houseplant Insect Problems
Indoor pests multiply quickly. There are no natural predators to keep them in check, so you have to be very diligent about checking for symptoms. Spider mites, aphids, mealy bugs and scale can cover a plant in days. If severe enough, the plant may never recover.
Indoor pests multiply quickly. There are no natural predators to keep them in check, so you have to be very diligent about checking for symptoms. Spider mites, aphids, mealy bugs and scale can cover a plant in days. If severe enough, the plant may never recover.
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are more than annoying pests flying around your new plant seedlings and cuttings. Fungus gnats can do serious damage to young plants and should be controlled before their population becomes too large. There are effective biological control measures you can take to detect, deter and control fungus gnats around your growing plants.
Fungus gnats are more than annoying pests flying around your new plant seedlings and cuttings. Fungus gnats can do serious damage to young plants and should be controlled before their population becomes too large. There are effective biological control measures you can take to detect, deter and control fungus gnats around your growing plants.
Garden Shrubs for Fall Color
Garden shrubs and vines offer a vast array of fall color with rich toned fall foliage, bright red and orange fruits and berries and even some late blooming fall flowering varieties. Many shrubs and vines come into their own at the end of the season and put on a great fall display.
Garden shrubs and vines offer a vast array of fall color with rich toned fall foliage, bright red and orange fruits and berries and even some late blooming fall flowering varieties. Many shrubs and vines come into their own at the end of the season and put on a great fall display.
Growing Green Beans
Often called green beans or string beans, the common garden bean can be both stringless and colors other than green. But it’s the green bean that everyone recognizes as one of the most frequently prepared vegetables. Hot, cold, even raw, string beans are versatile in the kitchen and very prolific producers in the garden. They are also easy to grow. Here are some tips.
Often called green beans or string beans, the common garden bean can be both stringless and colors other than green. But it’s the green bean that everyone recognizes as one of the most frequently prepared vegetables. Hot, cold, even raw, string beans are versatile in the kitchen and very prolific producers in the garden. They are also easy to grow. Here are some tips.
Fall Bloomers
Perennial gardens change with the seasons and the fall garden is one of the most colorful seasons in the garden. Many fall blooming perennial flowers display jewel tone blossoms that complement the fall foliage display of trees and shrubs. The choice of fall blooming perennial plants keeps growing.
Perennial gardens change with the seasons and the fall garden is one of the most colorful seasons in the garden. Many fall blooming perennial flowers display jewel tone blossoms that complement the fall foliage display of trees and shrubs. The choice of fall blooming perennial plants keeps growing.