The word Allium may sound confusing to many beginner growers because some gardeners use it to describe only one species. This is actually a genus that comprises hundreds of species, including the well-known garlic, onions, chives, shallots, and leeks. These plants make perfect companions in gardens because of their pungent scent that deters many pests. …
We usually grow pepper plants as annuals, but they are actually tender perennials that will continue growing if you don’t expose them to frost. That means tedious seed nursing and waiting months on end before you see any real growth and fruits slowly appearing. And just when you think the worst is behind you, frost…
Cucumber is the summer veg that seems to get along with pretty much every other vegetable you can think of. However, there are herbs that you shouldn’t grow near cucumbers for various reasons, and those include almost all aromatics. Companion planting is all about mutual benefit; herbs deter pests and improve flavor while other veggies…
Peppers are always a perfect choice for veggie gardens for two reasons. The first one is that these plants look amazing when in bloom or in their fruiting stage and the second, and everyone’s favorite, is their heavenly taste. No matter what types of peppers you prefer, from juicy bell peppers to spicy varieties, caring…
Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for the mind and body. It can help you stay fit and just an hour’s worth of work can be all the cardio you need. But the mental benefits are off the charts, especially with new research supporting this more and more. Even doctors are beginning to prescribe…
Exotic grasses are losing their popularity because of their invasive nature and native grasses stealing the show. While planting native grasses is an excellent idea, there’s no need to forget about exotic types completely. Feather reed grass is a captivating plant from the Calamagrostis genus and is a hybrid of two species – C. arundinacea…
While plants may not have vocal cords or make sounds that we can hear, they do have their own unique ways of communicating with the world. In a fascinating twist of nature, recent research has revealed that plants have their own form of “screaming” – these are clicking sounds in ultrasonic frequencies which humans can’t…
Nitrogen is one of the nutrients that gets most depleted out of soils, which is why gardeners want to know ways of adding it back. However, not every solution you find on the internet is helpful, which is what I discovered by sifting through them. In this article, I’ll introduce some useful ways to add…
Growing your own fruit trees is bound to give you healthy and delicious snacks throughout the growing season. And to get as much fruit as possible, you should fertilize them from time to time to ensure a high yield. Whether you have an orchard, a couple of potted fruit trees, or just a tree or…
Have you ever heard of bitter melon? This fruit has gained popularity in the last couple of years but it’s still pretty unknown compared to its sweet cousins. Well, if you haven’t tried it yet, you can guess what it tastes like. Yes, it’s a bitter fruit that makes an excellent addition to many dishes. …
The importance of bees has been the main topic of debate for the last couple of years and the main reason is that the population of these insects has significantly decreased. But do you know the difference between wild and domestic bee species? I’m sure you’ve heard that wild bees don’t produce honey, but is…
Imagine a garden where tomatoes and potatoes thrive side by side, sharing the soil and creating a wonderful harvest. This is the magic of 2-in-1 tomato and potato growing! In fact, you won’t be growing tomatoes and potatoes together – you will be growing so-called pomatoes or tomtatoes. Discover the art of planting these two…
Gone are the days of waiting for the right season to cultivate your favorite plants. Thanks to automated hydroponics gardens, you can now enjoy the delights of gardening throughout the year. Discover how this innovative technology is changing the way we grow and enjoy plants, anytime, anywhere. Let’s find out more about Nutraponics! All About…
Basil is one of those aromatics that you can grow all year long on your kitchen counter and have fresh herbs for your pizzas and pastas. But did you know that if you don’t prune (or rather harvest) it regularly, it can bolt and stop producing more of its aromatic foliage? And yet, if you…
We’re at that time of the year when it’s not yet fall, but we’re in full preparation mode for it. I’m talking about planting fall veggies and preparing the ground for winter survival. And this preparation is frost protection. How do you keep your plants safe from this phenomenon from fall through spring? Here are…
If you are growing fuchsias and want to propagate them through cuttings, knowing the right time to do so is crucial. These flowers are absolutely gorgeous, yet they are so easy to grow (so, who wouldn’t want to have more fuchsias in their garden?!). In this article, we are going to cover the timing and…
Soil greatly affects the growth, health, and development of your plants and crops, which is why it is important to achieve a perfect ratio of sand, compost, and topsoil. This mixture will provide enough nutrients and proper drainage for your garden plants, but only if it’s made properly. The key lies in finding that perfect…
Gardeners love veggies that grow fast, don’t need much to thrive, and produce many crops. Peas have all these features plus they’re super tasty and that’s why they’re part of many veggie gardens worldwide. There’s one method you can use to get the best out of your peas: companion planting. It will help you repel…
Mulching is a great way of reducing the amount of work you have to do around your garden. It regulates the soil temperatures, keeps the substrate moist for longer, and prevents the emergence of pesky weeds. Be that as it may, excess mulch can negatively affect your plants. Too thick of a layer can prevent…
Is there anything better than spending time outdoors during the summer months? A warm breeze and cold beverages make things even better. But there’s something that can get in your way of having the best time ever: annoying mosquitoes! When you visit supermarkets during the summer, you’ll notice numerous products that can help you get…
When it comes to gardening, starting with a clean slate is essential. This principle applies not only to your soil and tools but also to your plant containers. Sanitizing garden plant containers might not be the most exciting task, but it’s a crucial step that sets the stage for healthy plant growth. Whether you are…
Cover crops are some of the most powerful plants out there, and yet, we give them little credit. They can keep your garden safe from weeds, prevent the soil from drying out and enrich it with nutrients, give you a low-maintenance backyard, and attract beneficial bugs. Yes, these super plants can double as a pollinator…
Choosing the right yard fence can be overwhelming because there’s just so much choice out there. What do you focus on? Aesthetics or function? Why not both? In the following list, there are 16 types of fence that provide you with security, style, and privacy. You just have to choose the one that fits best…
Imagine going into your garden and checking on your flowers, just to see that they are filled with tiny frogs! Well, that’s exactly what happened to Allison Lamb. She says that the frogs are signs that spring has arrived! Allison, along with the other residents of Snohomish, Washington, are used to frogs’ croaking just like…
Spaghetti squash is a unique squash variety that turns into noodles when cooked properly. It is a winter kind of squash that is quite easy to grow. However, it’s crucial to get the right timing when harvesting. Getting the timing right ensures the best flavor and consistency! So, if you want to learn the perfect…
Garden pests are every gardeners’ nightmare. They come into your garden and completely ruin your plants and crops. Larger pests like deer and rabbits munch away leafy greens, while aphids and mealybugs are the microscopic ones that devour your plant without you even noticing it! So, in order to protect your plants, you must be…
I’m sure you’ll agree with me when I say that gardening is a pretty pricey practice once the growing season begins. Spending money on veggie seeds year after year makes us think if there’s any other, cheaper way. I have great news! You can actually save the seeds of the plants you’ve just harvested. This…
Many yard owners give up on growing trees because of their size. Trees do get tall but their width is what worries landscapers most. But what if I told you that there are some tall skinny trees that will fit perfectly in smaller spaces? Yes, they exist and I’ll show you my favorites. These trees…
Everybody tells you that figs are quite easy to grow, but they never mention the bizarre growing mistakes that can leave you empty handed at the end of the season. Figs are delicious Mediterranean fruits that require a lot of sun and warmth. So, planting them in a shaded area of your garden might just…
When you have a bountiful tomato harvest, you should try to save that deliciousness for later; and the easiest way to do that is by canning your tomatoes. No matter if you are new to canning or a pro, these recipes will let you enjoy summer’s goodness whenever you please. So, stick around to find…
If you want to create a natural garden filled with birds and butterflies, then you have come to the right place! A natural garden is the perfect solution for replacing your boring lawn or fixing shaded areas in your garden. Just imagine transforming your lawn into a vibrant haven that sustains itself! If you are…
Harvest is the time every gardener looks forward to because it shows us that all that hard work pays off. But did you know that there is such a thing as the right way to collect the fruits of your labor, tomatoes included? You have to choose the right time and day to do it,…
Rosemary is one of those spices that can improve the flavor of almost all of your dishes. But, did you know that you can always have rosemary on hand by using one simple trick? A famous tik toker, Martha (@marfskitchengarden) revealed one of the best hacks for getting an infinite supply of rosemary in a…
The end of the summer is getting closer; temperatures have already started to drop so we spend way more time in our backyards. Many people agree that this is the best period of the year. Well, I prefer using the words “almost the best”. Flying pests are still here and most likely won’t leave for…
Coneflowers are delightful plants that can really spruce up your summer garden. These are easy-to-grow flowers that are great for attracting pollinators and birds. As soon as the fall approaches and flowers start to die off, you might consider harvesting their seeds. They have large seedheads that are quite easy to handle, so there’s really…
Every farmer’s goal is to get a higher yield and the healthiest crops possible. But there are so many things that can get in their way and affect the yield. This encouraged them to look for new ways to boost their plants’ size and make them stronger and more resistant. Researchers have offered a solution:…
Growing tomato plants is a rewarding journey, but it doesn’t come without challenges. It’s important to water your plants properly, ensure that they receive enough sunlight, and protect them from pests and diseases. So, when your tomato plant starts producing brown leaves, that is a sign that there’s something wrong with it. It’s important to…
With its soft leaves and lovely smell, dill makes your meals tastier and your garden prettier! However, if you are growing dill in the ground, you will spend most of your time controlling its growth because it spreads quickly and overtakes the garden. Still, you can find some easy solutions to this issue. Additionally, you…
What is a garden without onions? I mean these veggies have so many culinary uses and health benefits and, best of all, they’re easy to grow. Even if you don’t like the strong flavor or taste of onions, I’m sure you have someone who does. If you already have them in your garden, you should…
Pests are an unavoidable part of gardening and you can choose to co-exist with them or do something about the whole situation. Benedict Vanheems, book author and horticulturist, shares his insights into this issue and offers advice on getting rid of pests from your garden. His solutions are organic and eco-friendly and, best of all,…
You can use every last summer second to get the thriving garden you’ve dreamed of and prepare it for fall. That means shifting to cool-season veggies and fall flowers, mowing your lawn, getting rid of weeds and pests, checking on your compost pile and watering systems, etc. Of course, you shouldn’t forget about your houseplants…
Taking care of your pepper plants goes beyond just planting and watering. Pruning plays an important role when it comes to maximizing the health and yield of pepper plants. By understanding how to properly prune your pepper plants, you can encourage robust growth, enhance fruit production, and create a more organized and thriving pepper garden!…
When we grow pepper plants, how we care for them can affect their growth and the amount of peppers they produce. Some people prune their plants, while others leave them as they are. So the question is: to prune your plants or not to prune your plants? When researching this question, I stumbled upon a…
All gardeners notice when there’s something wrong with their plants. Instead of rushing to the gardening shop and buying all kinds of pesticides or fungicides, you should first investigate the plant and figure out what type of disease you’re dealing with. First, you must learn the difference between symptoms and signs. Symptoms are changes in…
If you’re struggling to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn remember that you’re not alone. I’m sure you followed all the steps in lawn care but if that didn’t work out, you should try more unconventional methods. Believe it or not, burying pennies in your lawn is an ingenious hack that takes lawn care to…
If only all gardening enthusiasts had large outdoor spaces to fit all the plants they like! Unfortunately, growing plants indoors is the only option for many people. This also refers to herb cultivation. While there are many herb species that can thrive inside our homes, there are some that aren’t big fans of such conditions….
You can buy tomatoes in the grocery store at any time of the year but admit it, their taste can’t compare in any way with that of homegrown ones! To all the tomato growers out there, I know how long it takes for your tomatoes to ripen fully. Yes, patience is the key, but waiting…
Transforming fresh cucumbers into delicious pickles has never been easier. If you had a bountiful harvest this season, there’s no better way to save those cucumbers than by pickling them! With this super simple refrigerator dill pickle recipe, you are just a few steps away from savoring the tangy, crunchy goodness of homemade pickles. You…
Everyone is crazy about organic gardening, but what if I told you that there’s one practice that takes gardening to a whole new level? I’m talking about biodynamic gardening, a holistic practice that does wonders for blossoming plants, shrubs, and vegetables grown in your garden. Our main goal is to make our plants the happiest…
Growing rose cuttings in potatoes has recently become a trending topic in the gardening community. This fun gardening hack is a great way to spruce up your garden and encourage root growth, which leads to bushier growth! Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds – all you have to do is take the…
In the sunny days of summer, gardens come alive with tasty treasures, and one of the stars is definitely tomatoes! These round and juicy fruits bring the taste of summer to your plate. But there’s a trick to getting the best flavor – knowing when to pick them. Just like choosing the ripest fruit at…
In the wonderful state of California, there’s a special flower called the California poppy, otherwise known as Eschscholzia californica. This native wildflower is known for its vibrant orange and yellow flowers that attract plenty of pollinators and beneficial insects. Besides its ornamental purposes, many gardening beginners absolutely adore it due to their low-maintenance and ability…
The flavor of homegrown raspberries is simply unbeatable. Many growers decide on these fruiting plants because they aren’t really finicky over the growing conditions. However, if you’re a beginner and want to add these berries to your garden, you should know that they also require trimming for healthy growth. That’s actually one of the essential…
Slugs are one of the worst critters in the garden – not only do they transmit diseases, but they can also completely devour your plants, especially the leafy green ones! It can be quite hard to get rid of these garden pests as these slimy creatures always seem to find their way to your plants,…
If you don’t have any garden space but want to grow lavender, you can always do it indoors. Although it might seem strange, growing plants like lavender indoors is perfectly normal. Not only do you get a delightful addition to your home decor, but you also get free lavender that you can use to make…
Rose of Sharon, otherwise known as Althea, is a classic plant that originates from China and India. It came to America around the 1600s and is still being grown today. This hardy plant thrives in the harsh growing conditions of USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Lately, botanists have been developing hybrids with unique variegations,…
Closed-loop gardening will take you one step closer to sustainability, but that’s not the only goal of this method. I’m really surprised there aren’t that many gardeners who practice closed-loop gardening because it has many benefits for the environment (and your wallet). If you want to give your consumption a second thought and stop constantly…