Archive for the ‘Gardening 101’ Category

Bats have long been feared and misunderstood animals. Although believed to be evil and dangerous, bats are a beneficial species for the garden. Read the rest of this entry »

What are the essential tools and products of a gardener? Like a new cook setting up a kitchen, a beginning gardener must assemble basic equipment to tackle an assortment of garden chores. Read the rest of this entry »

If you are like me, you are filled with the excitement of what spring means for your landscape. A return to the growing season has us making lists of what has to be done for our plants to have an optimum growing environment. Often found at the top of the list is a hearty application of mulch. Read the rest of this entry »

For plant lovers, a shopping trip to the garden center can be similar to a child’s toy store excursion. Just like the child running from aisle to aisle in search of the perfect toy soon to be discarded, we sometimes purchase plants that appeal to us without giving thought to their final resting place. Read the rest of this entry »

You can sow your seeds directly into the garden using easy-to-plant seed strips. Read the rest of this entry »

Whether you start your vegetable and ornamental annuals from seed indoors or buy them at local garden centers, I’m sure the moderating temperatures of the new spring are making you anxious to get growing in the garden. Read the rest of this entry »

Bonsai (pronounced bone-sigh) is a centuries old Japanese art form. You may have seen one at your local mega-mart, mall kiosk or nursery center. You may have even bought one once, had it die and decided you couldn’t do Bonsai. Don’t despair, I’ve met very few Bonsai artists who still have their first tree and I’ve never met any Bonsai artist who hasn’t had at least one tree die. Read the rest of this entry »

Spring arrives on March 20. But did you know that March 1 is really the first day of spring? Astronomical Spring starts March 20, but Meteorological Spring begins on March 1. So what’s the difference? Read the rest of this entry »

Winter has the land in its grips, but for gardeners who can’t wait for the spring season, it will soon be time to get growing by starting seeds indoors. Read the rest of this entry »

Houseplants have a special place in my heart. To come in on a cold, grey day and see plants healthy and happy is one of my measures that all is well. But houseplants require informed care and attention to keep them looking good. Read the rest of this entry »