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Gardening

April 23, 2024

Tips for using Irish Spring to deter garden pests

Watching deer graze in a field or rabbits bouncing through the grass can be a peaceful experience. Watching them graze in your garden, not so much. While these charming creatures mean no harm, they can leave your veggies and plants nibbled and damaged. 

Try checking your leaves. Bugs will leave jagged edges and half-eaten leaves. Rabbits and deer will leave a clean cut or eat the entire foliage. You can keep your plants and veggies safe from the friendly herbivores without expensive chemicals or dangerous traps by using something you may already have on hand: Irish Spring Soap! 

The soap only works on pests like mice, rabbits, and deer (you'll have to address insect problems another way). While it isn't going to completely eliminate your problem, this simple remedy should keep most visitors at bay. 

1. First, slice up Irish Spring soap into 1/2-inch cubes. (The amount of soap and number of wooden stakes you need for this project will depend on the size of your garden.) 

2. Next, place two pieces of the soap into a drawstring pouch, and knot it closed. Alternatively, you can wrap it in some cheesecloth.

3. Secure your soap bag to a wooden stake via a staple or hot glue gun, and drive the stake into the ground about 5 to 10 feet apart, around your garden.

If you don't want to nail stakes into the ground, you can lay the pouches under vegetation. 

Deer, in particular, are put off by the scent of animal fats in the soap. If you can't get Irish Spring, try any scented soap made with tallow, which is derived from animal fat. Additional research by the University of Vermont Extension, suggests that soaps containing coconut oil can attract deer (so check your ingredients!)

April 16, 2024

Stop buying tomatoes

Use these 4 smart methods to grow an endless supply

1. Bury tomato slices

You read that right. This method is cheap and easy. All you need is some potting soil, an overripe tomato, and a few pots. 

Fill a large pot most of the way full with potting soil. Then add a few tomato slices (about 1/4 inch thick) on top. Make sure the slices you choose have plenty of seeds and cover them with just enough soil to bury them. Wait a week or two for them to sprout. 

After about a week, your tomato seeds will start to sprout. You may get as many as 60 seedling sprouts in one pot! Look for about four or five of the biggest (strongest sprouts). Remove those sprouts and replant them in another pot. 

Watch the new plants for a few weeks. You'll likely notice that one or two of the plants seem to be growing bigger and stronger. Remove the other two plants to give your stronger plants more room to grow. 

2. Plant them in the ground

If you have a lot of yard space with plenty of sunlight, simply burying your tomato plant in the ground, instead of a pot, can produce a much higher yield. An added benefit of this method is that it requires less watering. If you opt to go this route, just remember that deer and rabbits really love noshing on these types of gardens, so you'll need to keep your plants safe. 

3. Grow them in a window box 

If you live in a small space or just don't have a large yard, you can still grow tomato plants by planting them in a window box. You'll need to choose larger window boxes that can hold at least 1.5 gallons of dirt. You can use string trellis drilled into the wall to stabilize the plant. Choose smaller tomato types for this method. 

4. Grow them in a hanging basket 

Worried about dangling a heavy box over your windowsill? Try a hanging basket on the porch instead. The downside to this method is that this plant needs more water than normal container planting because the water drains faster. Try a cascading cherry tomato for this type of planting to get best results.


Bury a raw egg in a planter and here's the effect on your garden

1. Banana skins

Bananas contain a number of nutrients including potassium, phosphate, sulfur, calcium, magnesium and sodium. All of these things can help promote healthy growing for plants. The best way to effectively use banana peels is to cut them up into small pieces so that they can decompose faster. This will result in organic matter that helps establish rich soil

 

2. Ash

If you have a fireplace, you'll love this free method for raising pH levels. You simply scatter the ash around the soil as a way to lower acidic levels. This will make it easier to grow a fresh crop. 

3. Leaves

Allowing leaves to rot over a garden during winter will provide nutrients for the soil to prepare it for the next growing season. The leaves work to pull the organic matter back down into the soil making it dark and rich. 

 

4. Epsom salt 

Epsom salts are especially good for soil. Low pH levels are usually an indication of a magnesium imbalance. To boost pH levels in the soil, dilute Epsom salt with water and spray on the plants. The vegetation will soak up the welcomed nutrients.  

5. Raw egg

The solution for a thriving plant may be as simple as planting a raw egg. As you prepare your pots with soil, simply include a single raw egg at the bottom. Over time, the egg will decompose and works as a natural fertilizer for the seedlings. 

6. Use compost regularly 

While using bits and pieces of natural matter can be helpful, combining many pieces of compost will only go one step further toward enriching your soil. There are a number of benefits of using natural compost regularly. It works to improve the soil structure while using less water and warding off common plant diseases. The soil benefits from added layers of nutrients, especially before a growing season. 

 

7. Make a small compost 

Interested in making your own compact compost? It's much easier than you may think! The indoor compost method is great for people who don't have a lot of yard space. The way to do it is easy. You'll need a container that is big enough to hold about three weeks worth of waste, a stirring stick ,and soil. You should start by grinding up the waste in a mixer and then drain it of excess water. Put in the container and cover with soil. Stir. After a couple of weeks, stop adding waste and start a new container in the same way. In two weeks the compost will begin to look more like soil. With two containers going, you'll always be in full supply of fresh compost to add to your plants. Of course, the bins don't have to be kept indoors. 


 

April 02, 2024

7 brilliant tomato growing hacks

 

Prune Your Tomato Plants for Better Air Circulation and Sunlight

Proper pruning is key to healthy tomato plants. By removing excess leaves and stems, you can improve air circulation and sunlight exposure for your plants, thereby reducing the risk of diseases such as blight and powdery mildew. Prune your tomato plants by removing the lower leaves that touch the ground, as well as any yellowing or diseased leaves. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts to avoid injuring the plant.

Use Eggshells to Boost Calcium Levels in the Soil

Calcium is an essential nutrient for tomato plants, helping to strengthen cell walls and prevent a common condition known as blossom-end rot. One easy and cost-effective way to add calcium to your soil is by using crushed eggshells. Simply collect and rinse eggshells, then crush them into small pieces and scatter them around the base of your tomato plants. The calcium in the eggshells will gradually leach into the soil, providing your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive.

Plant Marigolds Near Your Tomato Plants to Repel Pests

Marigolds are not only beautiful, but they also have natural pest-repelling properties. Planting marigolds near your tomato plants can help deter common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. The strong scent of marigolds is believed to mask the aroma of tomato plants, making it harder for pests to locate them. Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs that prey on harmful pests.

Use Epsom Salt to Enhance Tomato Flavor and Growth

Epsom salt, which is rich in magnesium sulfate, can benefit tomato plants in several ways. Magnesium is essential for photosynthesis and helps plants produce sweeter, tastier fruits. To use Epsom salt in your tomato garden, dissolve one tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and use it to water your plants every two weeks. The added magnesium will promote stronger root systems, greener leaves, and tastier tomatoes.

Create a DIY Tomato Trellis for Vertical Growth

Providing support for your tomato plants is crucial for preventing the stems from breaking under the weight of heavy fruit. A DIY tomato trellis is an affordable and effective way to encourage vertical growth and keep your tomatoes off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and disease. Use sturdy stakes, bamboo poles, or PVC pipes to create a simple trellis structure, and tie the tomato stems to the support as they grow.

Use Coffee Grounds as a Natural Fertilizer

Used coffee grounds are a rich source of nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth. Sprinkling used coffee grounds around the base of your tomato plants can provide a slow-release source of nitrogen, improving the health and productivity of your plants. Additionally, coffee grounds help improve soil structure and water retention, making them a valuable addition to your garden. Before applying coffee grounds to your soil, be sure to let them dry and cool. Then, simply spread a thin layer of the grounds around the base of each tomato plant, and gently work them into the top layer of soil. The added nitrogen will boost foliage growth and contribute to a more robust and bountiful harvest.

Implement Companion Planting for a Healthier Garden

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit. Certain plants, when grown in close proximity to tomatoes, can enhance their growth, flavor, and pest resistance. For example, planting basil alongside tomatoes is said to improve the flavor of the tomatoes while also repelling pests like flies and mosquitoes. Other good companion plants for tomatoes include garlic, which deters spider mites, and borage, which attracts beneficial insects like bees and repels tomato hornworms. By carefully selecting and positioning companion plants in your tomato garden, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports the overall health and productivity of your plants

 

There are actually things you can do with your grass clippings.

Check out these 8+ ideas

 

1. Leave them on the lawn

One of the easiest things to do with your grass clippings is to mulch them as you mow (many lawnmowers have this option) and leave them right on the lawn. This practice is known as grasscycling and has many benefits for your lawn. It helps to cut down on water use and also adds extra nitrogen, reducing the need for fertilizers.

2. Fill raised beds

Building raised beds can be an expensive endeavor when it comes to filling them with soil. To help offset the cost you can use grass clippings to take up space in the bottom half of the bed. Just be careful not to fill the beds with more than 1/4 or so from grass.

3. Make a liquid plant food

Compost tea is popular among organic gardeners to feed their plants. You can make a similar liquid plant food by steeping grass clippings in water for 3-4 days and then straining out the liquid. The resulting "tea" will contain nutrients, amino acids and proteins that are a natural food for your plants.

4. Spread them as mulch

After bagging the clippings while mowing, you can spread them around the base of trees and shrubs or on the potting soil surface in container plants. Acting as a mulch, the grass clippings will help to prevent weeds while increasing soil moisture retention.

5. Add to compost pile

For your compost pile to work efficiently, it needs a mix of "brown" (high carbon) and "green" (high nitrogen) materials. Adding grass clippings to the pile will add nitrogen that's important for production of protein — a food source for the microbes doing the work. Sounds complicated, right? Home Composting Made Easy helps to lay it all out in an easy-to-understand way.

6. Feed to livestock animals

Some of your livestock can be fed grass clippings as a supplement to their diet. Rabbits, goats, chickens, cattle and sheep will benefit from the additional nitrogen boost. According to Farm Show, silage made from grass clippings has a higher protein content and digestible matter percentage than hay.

7. Use as a natural dye

SHUTTERSTOCK

While it may sound somewhat crazy, you can actually take grass clippings and use them to make a natural dye. This dye can then be used to color Easter eggs or even to dye fabrics.

8. Recycle them

Similar to cardboard, plastic and glass, your grass clippings can be recycled as well. Many municipalities or recycling centers have programs in place to dispose of your grass clippings in a green manner. Often these entities have their own compost piles and use the grass as a green source in the piles.

9. Attract wildlife to your yard

If you want to help feed the local wildlife and encourage these fascinating creatures to come to your yard so you can watch them, put your glass clippings in a pile that's easily accessible to deer and other wildlife. Just make sure you're prepared to have them munch on other flowers and garden plants too, unless preventative measures are put in place.

 

 

March 27, 2024


Plant a rose in a tomato slice & get this stunning effect in your garden

In the pursuit of a charming and productive garden, gardeners are always on the lookout for innovative methods to enhance plant health and vitality. One such quirky technique involves planting a rose cutting in a tomato slice. While this may sound like an unconventional approach to gardening, it incorporates basic principles of plant biology and can have some interesting effects on rose propagation. 

Roses, being hardy and versatile, can be propagated in a variety of ways, but the tomato slice method is especially intriguing due to the nutrient boost it provides. Tomatoes are rich in essential nutrients and moisture, creating a nurturing environment for a young rose cutting to establish roots.

The Tomato Slice Propagation Method Explained

1. To begin, select a ripe tomato and a healthy rose cutting. The rose cutting should be about 6-8 inches in length, taken from a vigorous, new growth of your rose plant that has bloomed recently.

2. Cut the tomato into slices, approximately 1/2 inch thick.

3. Make a small cut in the bottom of the rose cutting, which is called a "heel". This increases the surface area from which roots can potentially grow.

4. Insert the bottom end of the rose cutting directly into the center of a tomato slice, ensuring that the cut end of the cutting makes good contact with the tomato flesh.

5. Prepare a pot with a mixture of potting soil and compost. You can also add some rooting hormone to the soil mixture to encourage root development. Place the tomato slice with the rose cutting on top of the soil.

6. Cover the cutting and the tomato slice with a thin layer of soil. Water thoroughly but gently, taking care not to displace the cutting or the slice.

7. Place the pot in a location that receives indirect sunlight and maintains a consistent temperature. You can cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse effect, which helps retain moisture and warmth.

Benefits of Using a Tomato Slice for Rose Propagation

Using a tomato slice to propagate roses may offer several benefits:

1. Nutrient Supply

Tomatoes are full of essential nutrients that roses can benefit from. As the tomato slice decomposes, it releases calcium, potassium, and other nutrients that can be absorbed by the growing rose cutting.

2. Natural Moisture Reservoir

The succulent nature of tomato slices provides a moist environment which is crucial for rooting. This eliminates the need for frequent watering, decreasing the chance of the cutting drying out.

3. Rooting Boost

Tomatoes contain natural growth-stimulating substances that might aid in faster root development, as it does for tomato seeds.

The Expected Outcome

The above method combines the nutrient-dense and moist properties of tomatoes with the robust nature of roses. If successful, this technique results in a rose that establishes a healthy root system quickly. The young rose is then able to take full advantage of the transitional period between the slice decomposing and the cutting taking root, optimizing growth. However, results can vary based on the variety of rose, the condition of the cutting, and the growing conditions.

Plant asparagus once and harvest for decades with these 9 tips

Most BC climates are suitable for growing this delicious and healthy vegetable, so if you follow the right instruction, you could be enjoying a steady source of asparagus soon.

1. Choose your location

If you choose to grow your plant from seed, you'll need to begin indoors. It's best to do this between February and May. You'll want a room with lots of natural light, between 70 and 85 degrees.

2. Soak and plant

It can be hugely beneficial to soak your seeds in water for a couple of hours before planting. You can then plant your seeds at 3 per 3.5-inch pot in sterile soil, covering the top with sand.

3. Pot placement

You should ensure your asparagus pots are all equipped with drainage holes. You can stand your pots in a tray or pan and water from below to avoid waterlogging. You may also want to consider a heating pad to keep your seedling warm.

4. Time to transplant

After three months of indoor growth, your seedlings should be ready to be moved outside. Check the weather that there is no risk of frost, then place your seedling outside at about 18 inches apart, and in rows that are 4 inches apart.

5. The waiting game

You should lightly cover your seedlings with soil, then water them a little once per week. Allow them to grow all summer, then trim back in fall. After three years of repeating this process, you can harvest your homegrown asparagus!

6. Consider crowns

SHUTTERSTOCK

If three years is too long for you to wait, you can purchase asparagus crowns ready for planting. Do some research to find the asparagus variety best suited to your location, and make sure your beds are ready.

7. Prep the beds

Choose well-draining soil with a neutral pH for your asparagus crowns. Dig 12-inch troughs in your beds, then create little cones of loose dirt at the bottom of each furrow, at least 18 inches apart. Each asparagus crown can be placed on top of these dirt cones, with the roots danging down into the trough.

8. Take care

Keep your asparagus crowns well-watered, and add soil around them as they grow. You should also weed the beds frequently. After two years of growth, your asparagus should be ready to eat.

9. Harvesting tips

You should only harvest for around four weeks in the first year but can go for longer in subsequent years. You'll know the shoots are ready to cut when they're 8 inches tall. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut.

Last July, the iconic monarch butterfly joined the growing list of endangered species in North America. 🦋😔

The main cause of their steep decline is the scarcity of milkweed, their caterpillar's host plant and exclusive food source. Together, we can reverse this course. Together, we can plant milkweed seeds and give monarchs a much needed breather.🌱

You can order seeds now from our partner Lasclay (a great company by the way) on the link below and get an exclusive 30% discount code with the following code: MONARCH30 (4 or more seed packets).

It's a small but powerful gesture, and it makes a great gift for your loved ones as well!

Monarchs will surely thank you for it by visiting your garden, maybe even this Summer! 🦋🧡


 

March 26, 2024

7 Easy Ways to Propagate Hostas Without Breaking Your Back

In the following guide, we talk about easy ways to propagate hostas.

Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner looking to expand your hosta collection, these methods will allow you to enjoy a thriving hosta garden without the back-breaking labor. By following these tips, you'll be able to enhance your garden's beauty while minimizing physical strain, allowing you to cultivate an impressive hosta display with ease and enjoyment.

 

1) Division

Hostas can be easily divided in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and divide the clump into smaller pieces. Each piece should have at least one leaf and one root. Plant the divisions in the same area or in a different part of your garden. 

2) Offsets

Hostas will produce offsets or “baby” plants around the base of the main plant. These can be carefully dug up and transplanted to a new location. Make sure to dig up the entire root system and replant it in a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Water the new plant well and keep it moist until it is established. 

3) Leaf Cuttings

Hostas can also be propagated from leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf from the parent plant and remove the bottom third of the leaf. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a shady location and keep the soil moist. The leaf should produce a new plant in a few weeks. 

4) Stem Cuttings

Stem cuttings can also be taken from hostas. Cut a stem that has at least two leaves on it and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a shady location and keep the soil moist. The stem should produce a new plant in a few weeks. 

5) Layering

Hostas can also be propagated by layering. Choose a healthy stem and bend it to the ground. Cover the stem with soil and anchor it in place with a rock or stake. Water the area and keep it moist. The stem should produce roots in a few weeks. Once the roots are established, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location. 

6) Seed

Hostas can be propagated from seed, but it is a slow process. Collect the seeds from the parent plant in the fall and sow them in a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a shady location and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate in a few weeks.

Soap water is a gardener's defense.

Here's why.

1. Soap Water as an Insecticide

Insects can be pesky visitors in your garden, especially aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. They can cause widespread damage and potentially ruin your crops. Soap water is a gentle but powerful insecticide that can help control these pests. The soap disrupts the insects' cell membranes, leading to dehydration and death.

2. Fungal Diseases Prevention

Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and black spot are common in gardens with high humidity. Soap water can inhibit the growth of these fungi by creating an unfavourable environment on the leaf surface. Regular spraying as a preventative measure can help keep fungal pathogens at bay.

3. Eco-friendly and Non-toxic

Many gardeners strive to maintain an organic garden, avoiding chemicals that can harm the environment or end up in their food. Soap water is a safe alternative to harsh chemical pesticides. It is non-toxic to humans and animals, and when used correctly, it does not harm the beneficial insects that your garden needs to thrive.

4. Cost-Effective Solution

Instead of spending money on expensive commercial products, gardeners can create a soap water solution using items they likely already have at home. A simple mixture of water and liquid soap (preferably biodegradable and without fragrances or additives) can serve multiple purposes in the garden, making it a cost-effective tool.

5. Easy to Make and Use

Creating a soap water solution is straightforward and only requires a few steps. Here's a basic recipe:

1. Fill a spray bottle with water.

2. Add a few drops of liquid soap.

3. Shake well to combine.

4. Test the solution on a small area of the plant before a full application.

5. Spray on affected plants, making sure to cover the undersides of leaves where insects often hide.

6. Supports Plant Health

Beyond its insecticidal and fungicidal properties, soap water can help to remove dirt and sooty mold from plant leaves, enhancing photosynthesis and overall plant health. When plant leaves can fully absorb sunlight, they perform better, leading to a more robust and productive garden.

7. Compatibility with Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

For those practicing Integrated Pest Management, which involves combining biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools to manage pests in an ecologically and economically sound manner, soap water fits right in. It's a viable option that can be integrated with other IPM strategies to reduce pest populations without causing undue harm to the ecosystem.


 

 

March 19, 2024

Never Buy Strawberries Again

Step 1: Choose the Right Planter

Select a planter that is at least 12 inches deep to provide enough space for the strawberry plants' roots. Ensure that the planter has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Step 2: Choose the Right Strawberry Variety

There are different types of strawberry plants available, so choose a variety that suits your climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties include June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral strawberries.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix or a combination of garden soil and compost. Ensure that the soil is loose and friable to allow proper root development. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it can retain too much moisture.

Step 4: Plant the Strawberries

Place the planter in a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Fill the planter with soil, leaving about 1 inch of space below the rim. Space the strawberry plants about 12 inches apart, allowing enough room for growth. Make sure the crowns (the area where the leaves meet the roots) are level with the soil surface.

Step 5: Water the Plants

After planting, water the strawberry plants thoroughly. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and avoid overhead watering to prevent diseases.

Step 6: Provide Nutrients

Strawberries are heavy feeders, so they require regular fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply a liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions. This will help promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Step 7: Mulch the Plants

Apply a layer of straw or mulch around the strawberry plants to suppress weed growth, retain moisture, and protect the fruit from direct contact with the soil. Spread the mulch evenly, making sure to keep it away from the crowns.

Step 8: Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Regularly inspect your strawberry plants for signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids, slugs, or fungal infections. If you notice any issues, take appropriate measures to control them, such as using organic pest control methods or consulting with a local garden center for advice.

Step 9: Pollination

Most strawberry varieties are self-pollinating, but to ensure better fruit set, you can gently brush a soft-bristled brush or your finger against the flowers to transfer pollen between plants.

Step 10: Harvest the Strawberries

As the strawberries ripen, they will turn fully red and become sweet and juicy. Harvest them when they are fully ripe by gently plucking them from the plants, taking care not to damage the fragile fruit. Enjoy your homegrown strawberries!

Upcycling tip:

A leftover rotisserie chicken container makes a great mini greenhouse!

 

DIG INTO CONTAINER GARDENING!

Short on space, time, or money or just want to garden in a new way? Container gardening helps you to explore your love of plants as well as “grow” your green thumb knowledge.

Inside this guide to gardening in containers, you’ll find . . .

  • Specific advice for growing miniature, bush, and other small-space vegetables, as well as herbs and fruit

  • Profiles of singularly sensational ornamental plants

  • Profiles of “thriller,” “spiller,” and “filler” plants, plus how to arrange them based on colors, textures, shapes, and more

  • Help in choosing proper containers, with tips on how to clean both pots and tools

  • The most desirable growing medium, how to make your own optimum mix, and how much you’ll need

  • Advice on providing sun, water, and fertilizer, plus what to do if you’ve overdone it

  • How to deter diseases and pests (and eliminate them if 
    need be!)

  • Pages for recording your experiences and observations

  • Helpful anecdotes from fellow gardeners

  • Much, much more!

Perfect for brand-new and experienced gardeners alike, The Old Farmer’s Almanac Container Gardener’s Handbook (companion to the Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook and Flower Gardener’s Handbook) promises bountiful harvests and captivatingly colorful arrangements in pots—the ultimate small-space gardens.

(order your copy - click here)

 
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