Many people, myself included, will either give or receive at least one poinsettia plant during the festive period. Like the Christmas Cactus, this is one of the most popular and recognizable flowers of the festive period. Continue reading
Since soil can harbor pests, diseases, and weed seeds, it’s always a good idea to sterilize garden soil before planting [1] to ensure the most optimal growth and health of your plants. While you can go out and purchase sterile potting mixes to meet your needs, you can also learn how to sterilize soil at home quickly and efficiently. Continue reading
How much cold will kill a plant? Not much, although this is usually dependent on the hardiness of the plant as well as the climate. Typically, temperatures falling below freezing will quickly damage or even kill many types of plants. However, with prompt care, many of these cold damaged plants can be rescued. Better still, protecting plants from freezing cold [1] and frost [2] before damage occurs is generally a good idea. Continue reading
There’s nothing better than buying some fresh tomatoes from the grocers and mixing up a batch of your famous homemade salsa — or is there? With the increasing popularity of farmer’s markets, the demand for not only organic, sustainable produce has leapt, but also the push for heirloom varieties of vegetables and fruits. Keep reading to learn more about growing heirloom plants. Continue reading
What is a heat mat for plants, and exactly what does it do? Heat mats have one basic function which is to gently warm the soil, thus promoting faster germination [1] and strong, healthy seedlings. They are useful for rooting cuttings. Heat mats are marketed as a propagation mat or seedling heat mats as well, but the function is the same. Read on for more information and learn how to use a heat mat for seed starting. Continue reading
Cacti and succulents make outstanding landscaping plants. They require little maintenance, grow in a variety of climates, and are easy to care for and grow. Most will even tolerate neglect. These plants are also well adapted to potted environments, making them excellent candidates for growing indoors as well. Continue reading
Low light and flowering plants don’t normally go hand in hand, but there are some flowering indoor plants that will bloom for you in lower light situations. Let’s take a look at the best options for areas with little light. Continue reading
Weed Management Mistakes – 5 Weeding Mistakes To Avoid In Gardens
We all have them – weeds. It’s how we handle those weeds that’s the problem. It is probably safe to say that weeding is a necessary drudgery. Most gardeners hate weeding, myself included, but we hate weeds more. Continue reading
It’s never too early to plan for the Christmas holiday! Maybe this year you want to express your creativity and are looking for non-traditional Christmas tree ideas or other alternative Christmas décor. Or maybe, you live in a small condo or apartment and simply do not have the space for a large, traditional fir tree and are wondering what other Christmas tree options [1] are out there. Whatever the case, this article will help. Continue reading
Information On How To Protect Outdoor Plants In Winter
Fall is the best time to get out in the garden and secure your sensitive and tender plants. Protecting plants in winter can help prevent winter scald, frozen roots, foliar damage and even death. Cold weather plant protection takes a little pre-planning and some equipment in harsher zones. In mild and temperate climates, it usually just means re-mulching and dividing peonies [1] and other early spring bloomers. Fall maintenance should include a plan for winter protection for plants and winter plant covers. Continue reading
Before you bring new houseplants into your home, they probably spent weeks or even months in a warm, humid greenhouse. Compared to a greenhouse environment, the conditions inside most homes are quite dry, especially in winter when the furnace is running. For this reason, it is important that you learn and practice appropriate humidity houseplant care to ensure the longevity and health of your beloved plants. Continue reading
I have a compost tumbler that I make liberal use of; however, I got to wondering if I could grow food from veggie scraps [1]. Most of us have rooted an avocado pit [2] with mixed results, but can you take the tops of carrots and grow them? I had to try.