Category: Summer Gardening
-
Sprouting Made Simple: Grow Fresh, Nutritious Greens at Home
Sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, easy to grow at home, and cost-effective. They offer more safety and control than store-bought options and have minimal environmental impact. With a variety of types and easy growing methods, sprouts can enhance dishes like salads, tacos, and smoothies. Growing sprouts is an affordable, eco-friendly, and versatile way to enjoy…
-
Aging Gracefully: The Colorful Life of Grandma Kirksey Peppers
Discover the vibrant Grandma Kirksey pepper, a perfect addition to any garden. This ornamental pepper boasts purple-tinted leaves and color-changing fruit. Learn about its history and care, from planting to harvest, and enjoy its stunning transformation from violet to red. Whether for visual appeal or culinary use, Grandma Kirksey peppers promise delightful surprises.
-
Summer Grow to Autumn Glow: Plan Ahead and Seamlessly Transition Your Garden
As summer transitions to cooler temperatures, it’s crucial to assess your garden for fall. Evaluate plant health, soil condition, and consider a summer garden cleanup. Choose the right fall crops, time the planting, and prepare for the upcoming winter. By planning ahead and making small adjustments, your garden will thrive through the changing seasons.
-
Post-Storm Garden Recovery: How to Revitalize Your Garden After Severe Weather
For gardeners, heavy summer storms highlight the importance of being prepared both beforehand and ready for quick and decisive post-storm garden recovery. This article offers guidance on assessing damage, immediate care, and long-term recovery. It emphasizes the importance of quick action, evaluating plant damage, removing debris, caring for broken stems, waterlogged soil, and considering fertilization…
-
The Ultimate Guide to Growing Habanero Peppers for a Fiery Harvest
Habanero peppers are a colorful and fiery addition to any garden. These high-capsaicin fruits deter garden pests and thrive with minimal care. They require 6-8 hours of sunlight and occasional watering. While they have a long growing season, starting seeds indoors can expedite the process. Harvest when the peppers turn bright orange and consider companion…
-
Bountiful Basil: Easy Tips for Growing Basil in Your Herb Garden
Basil is a delightful and rewarding herb to grow, offering immense culinary value. The tropical or sub-tropical plant can be a perennial in some zones and comes in various cultivars like Sweet Basil, Greek Basil, and more. It can be grown from seed or cuttings, with certain considerations for light, water, and pests. Harvesting basil…
-
Creative Origami Seed Packet Ideas for Seed Swaps and Holiday Gifts
Saving seeds is a cherished practice that can save money and create personalized gifts. Various origami seed packet designs are shared, each with unique benefits. The rectangular packet provides secure storage but may not accommodate larger seeds. The rectangular packet with a tab offers decorative flair but is less secure. The trapezoid packet is easy…
-
Natural Ways to Keep Chipmunks and Squirrels Out of Your Garden
Chipmunks and squirrels can wreak havoc on your garden, but there are ways to deter them. These rodents dig holes in search of food or to bury their own stash. You can deter them by offering a distraction of their preferred foods or using decorative stones to cover soil. Companion planting with marigolds may not…
-
Pruning for Perfect Tomatoes
Tomatoes are easy to grow and pruning is essential for optimal plant health and fruit production. Pruning encourages fruit growth and prevents diseases by limiting leaf contact with the ground. Determinant (bush) tomatoes require minimal pruning, while indeterminant (vine) tomatoes benefit greatly from it. Prune when plants are about a foot tall. Be mindful of…