by Lee Dobbins
Gardening can be a fun and relaxing hobby but if you have to constantly be worried about garden pests damaging your plants became soon turned into a source of stress.
Dumping harsh chemicals on your plants is not good for you or the environment but luckily there is a better way. You can encourage natural predators into your garden that will soon eliminate these pesky pests. These natural creatures can live in harmony in your garden where they will eat the pests that are harming your plants.
Here are some natural predators and how you might encourage them to take up residence in your garden.
Frogs
What would a garden be without some frogs and toads? They are likely attracted to your garden as it is, but you can add a few elements to attract even more of them. Since frogs and toads love water you might think of installing a garden pond, or at the very least a small water feature low to the ground that they can breed in. They will thank you by helping to control small insects and slugs.
Lady Bugs
Ladybugs love to eat aphids so you want to attract as many of them as you can into your garden. You probably recognize them as an adult with a red and black dotted shells but you might not easily recognize the lava which is gray in color with orange dots. Don't mistake the larva for a past as these lover can chow down more aphids than the adults. Ladybugs like Cosmos, scented geraniums and even dandelions so be sure to have plenty of those in your garden.
Ground Beetles
Ground beetles like to make their home under stones or leaf covers and sleep all day coming out at night to feed on garden pests. They have quite an appetite Emil Chow down slugs, snails, cutworms and leather jackets and the lava or egg stage. Some will even climb up in the trees to get a good meal and can eat gypsy moth and tent caterpillars. you can encourage these as you garden are providing permanent plantings for them to live under, loose leaf cover or small stones.
Birds
Who doesn't want birds in their garden? While these might be considered pests for some vegetables they can also read your garden of pests such as caterpillars, grubbs, slugs and aphids which they feed on. have a little bird bath in your garden as well as some nesting boxes to encourage birds into the garden where they might see a tasty grub they might want to feast on.
Lacewings
Lacewings, or the larva of lace wings feed on aphids and small soft bodied pests. To attract bees, make sure you have a water source and plant lots of nectar and pollen flowers as they like to lay their eggs underneath the leaves of these plants.
With a little bit of strategic planning, you can attract these predators into your garden which will not only help control the pests but will also add interest to the garden. Plus, it's a lot more fun to plant particular flowers and put out sources of water to attract birds, beetles and frogs into your garden than it is to drag out the sprayer hose and douse your garden with chemicals! Not only will you be getting rid of pests on your plants, you'll also be providing a food source for the predators and keeping the environment free of chemicals!
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Gardening for Four Seasons
During Spring
Spring is the season where most flowers blossom over the long winter. It is also the event where flowers were used for display since flowers are in variety during this season. The well-known flowers that fit in the design of the garden are the snowdrops, winter aconites, crocuses and early daffodils. In this type of season, most flower colors reflect pink and yellow shades. These flowers were the very first seen after the winter so most of gardeners have them displayed either in their garden for impressive view or just beside their homes.
Designing these kind of flowers depend upon the size of the bulb and the impact it make when grown together in a container. It also depends on to the distance if such small and colored flowers would make a very good view. To do this, you must landscape the overall area of the garden with a carpet of grass before the actual design. Just like in painting, one must always make a clean canvass and a base color. In this case, green carpet like grass creates a canvass for your garden masterpiece. Identify the strategic points of which you will create each blocks of flowers. Then arrange the colors of the flowers, the bulb size and the thickness of the creating a visual ecology.
Consider the flowers that can last over one to two seasons or all year-round plants like conifers, shrubs with colorful bark, evergreen, tree trumps and those flowers that create architectural features. This type of plants can be modified by cutting or trimming in whichever you like it to appear making one garden interesting. But in designing for the whole garden, you must also consider the seasons of which each flowers blossom according to its season. According to landscapers, one key to create successful plant associations is observing different shapes, colors and textures. Using this kind of varieties give a lasting effect for the design. We ultimately know that flowers are part of ecological change of the environment and by these we create a design that when that change comes still the flowers will look good together.
During summer
After that colored season of spring where most reds, pinks and yellow flowers flourish somehow ends during summer. The season becomes a little bit humid and sun-colored flowers appear. In this season, flowers like large trumpet shaped lilies, neat spikes of liatris and umbrella shaped clusters flourish. What is important in this time of the season is to create an umbrella or shade against the sun. It is interesting to create a theme that will also draw attention. Most summer gardens becomes spectacular if yellow accentuated with few pinks. Peculiar bulbs during this season are present like diorama, acidanthera and trigidia. Their strong shapes create a style that not only are fascinating but also sets your garden beyond conventional.
Summer bulbs during June and July are well known for flowers like alliums as ornamental onions. This type of plant grew in outstanding height having strong spherical shapes. If it is combined it with sphaerocephalum whose bulbs are advantageous when grouped. It is an oval shaped flower with shades of purple, pink and cream that you can choose from. Lilies are also present being the most versatile of all, since it can be combined to just any type of flower and has been hybrid to create mixture of colors. An example of this is the lilium regale having a distinct shape that of the Prince of Wales-feather shaped leaves of Melianthus major. Lilies in terms of combinations with other cultures especially modern designs that of Japanese architecture are best fitted in white gardens. Sand gardens of Japanese landscape, lilies used to give beauty with their favorite bamboo plants. For exotic designs giving a fiery effect of the garden then this tigrinum better known as tiger lily is specie in the family of lilies having a flaming orange bulb. However having this kind of type of lily color can be difficult to mix with other bulbs especially those of pastel motifs.
During autumn and winter
During this time of season, most flowers fall and the landscape turns into foliage. The most appealing in autumn and winter season are the trees commonly are the acers and shrubs like fothergilla. Leaves and flowers somehow fall around the end of the summer and the supply of flowers is scarce, the most effective of creating landscape is to keep it into a winter character. However, flowers that continue in the middle of autumn season are the hemerocallis and agapanthus. There is not much of landscaping in this season but you can still create an indoor attraction.
Indoor bulbs or flowers inside the conservatory for the cold weather are good for display. Most indoor bulbs like Vallota (Scarborough lily) which lives early in the autumn. Although it is kept inside permanently. The characteristic of this lily is the striking red colored lily at the top of its stem that is identical to hippeastrum. Some outdoor plants can be placed indoor to keep it in good condition like colchicums, schizotylis, water lily and lilac wonder.
What is enthralling with this season is introducing the plants to your children as an indoor activity. It can also help them appreciate flowers and understand the flowers having different kinds of seasons. To keep flowers until Christmas is to place them in pots after or in the middle of September before the start of autumn. In this way, you are giving enough time for the flower to grow into the pots.
Other types of indoor flowers are Tazetta group of narcissi having varieties like Soleil d' Or' and Paper white. One basic feature of this plant is the convenience it gives to the gardener since it much quicker and simpler to grow compared to normal spring bulbs.
Design themes for your Garden
There are different kinds of themes you can choose depending in your taste. If you want your garden to have a fragrance scent then hyacinth flowers are the best choice. You can choose from purple, mauve, red, pink or white and other shades having present in late February. Associate it with daffodils, water-lily type tulip, crocuses in flower arrangement especially in small pots. You can either place it in front or back or even both sides of the house. If you are looking into an informal look then try arranging small growing hybrids of narcissi over rockeries because they form as a central subject. When centralizing a flower piece make sure that it is not too large in the pot. Other narcissi known for their aromatic sense are Jonquilla having varieties of Baby moon, Lintie and Trevithian that blooms around April and May.
In summer, exotic plants are the most popular such as crocosmia and hemerocallis. If grown together into cluster a fascinating blend of colors such as apricot and buff shades. Another unusual flower is gladiolus byzantinus having a vivid magenta color that grows in early summer. This kind of plant is the most versatile of all since it can withstand until winter. However, during the late summer, Acidanthera murielae is the best fitting plant the peculiar butterfly mark in the center is the main feature.
If you are aiming for sophisticated effect, then galtonia hyacinth is nothing but elegance. It has a dangling white colored and bell-shaped flowers falling around it stems. When it is difficult to find this kind of flower during summer one similar feature can also be found with Liatris.
However, during the autumn and winter, the display is in the indoor especially the conservatory. Most of the plants around this are the evergreens and other dwarf coloured dwarf bulbs. Other autumn flowering species are Cyclamen neapolitanum and c. purpurascens. Indoor bulbs that grow in groups that have autumn interest are tricyrtis and T. formosana stolonifera (toad lilies). But due to their less popularity most people seem to notice their flowers whose beauty can even appreciated even without looking closely at them.
What is important in having a bulb that will growing in different conditions are basically to have a well-drained pot that contains enough organic materials. Simply means that a plant should have enough water. In deciding for the type of bulb that will grow in your garden is primarily identifying the condition of your soil. Determine the type using a soil testing kits most gardening stores have. Find out if it is made of clay, sandy type, or the good loamy soil. Observe also the sun's orientation in your garden, if possible sketch the areas where there is direct sunlight and shade in any time of the day. In this way, you will have an idea which plant needs direct sunlight.
In preparing for the plant in its new soil or bed, you must first clear the area and cultivate the soil. Spread an amount of organic materials such as the biodegradable fruit left-over and vegetables into the desired space. Improve also the soil aeration and drainage. Then set in the bulbs into their positions following your design. What is important in the bulb is to plant them in a right depth. Plant them firmly by light press and twist into the soil. Afterwards, continue maintaining the area with the proper moisture.
Spring is the season where most flowers blossom over the long winter. It is also the event where flowers were used for display since flowers are in variety during this season. The well-known flowers that fit in the design of the garden are the snowdrops, winter aconites, crocuses and early daffodils. In this type of season, most flower colors reflect pink and yellow shades. These flowers were the very first seen after the winter so most of gardeners have them displayed either in their garden for impressive view or just beside their homes.
Designing these kind of flowers depend upon the size of the bulb and the impact it make when grown together in a container. It also depends on to the distance if such small and colored flowers would make a very good view. To do this, you must landscape the overall area of the garden with a carpet of grass before the actual design. Just like in painting, one must always make a clean canvass and a base color. In this case, green carpet like grass creates a canvass for your garden masterpiece. Identify the strategic points of which you will create each blocks of flowers. Then arrange the colors of the flowers, the bulb size and the thickness of the creating a visual ecology.
Consider the flowers that can last over one to two seasons or all year-round plants like conifers, shrubs with colorful bark, evergreen, tree trumps and those flowers that create architectural features. This type of plants can be modified by cutting or trimming in whichever you like it to appear making one garden interesting. But in designing for the whole garden, you must also consider the seasons of which each flowers blossom according to its season. According to landscapers, one key to create successful plant associations is observing different shapes, colors and textures. Using this kind of varieties give a lasting effect for the design. We ultimately know that flowers are part of ecological change of the environment and by these we create a design that when that change comes still the flowers will look good together.
During summer
After that colored season of spring where most reds, pinks and yellow flowers flourish somehow ends during summer. The season becomes a little bit humid and sun-colored flowers appear. In this season, flowers like large trumpet shaped lilies, neat spikes of liatris and umbrella shaped clusters flourish. What is important in this time of the season is to create an umbrella or shade against the sun. It is interesting to create a theme that will also draw attention. Most summer gardens becomes spectacular if yellow accentuated with few pinks. Peculiar bulbs during this season are present like diorama, acidanthera and trigidia. Their strong shapes create a style that not only are fascinating but also sets your garden beyond conventional.
Summer bulbs during June and July are well known for flowers like alliums as ornamental onions. This type of plant grew in outstanding height having strong spherical shapes. If it is combined it with sphaerocephalum whose bulbs are advantageous when grouped. It is an oval shaped flower with shades of purple, pink and cream that you can choose from. Lilies are also present being the most versatile of all, since it can be combined to just any type of flower and has been hybrid to create mixture of colors. An example of this is the lilium regale having a distinct shape that of the Prince of Wales-feather shaped leaves of Melianthus major. Lilies in terms of combinations with other cultures especially modern designs that of Japanese architecture are best fitted in white gardens. Sand gardens of Japanese landscape, lilies used to give beauty with their favorite bamboo plants. For exotic designs giving a fiery effect of the garden then this tigrinum better known as tiger lily is specie in the family of lilies having a flaming orange bulb. However having this kind of type of lily color can be difficult to mix with other bulbs especially those of pastel motifs.
During autumn and winter
During this time of season, most flowers fall and the landscape turns into foliage. The most appealing in autumn and winter season are the trees commonly are the acers and shrubs like fothergilla. Leaves and flowers somehow fall around the end of the summer and the supply of flowers is scarce, the most effective of creating landscape is to keep it into a winter character. However, flowers that continue in the middle of autumn season are the hemerocallis and agapanthus. There is not much of landscaping in this season but you can still create an indoor attraction.
Indoor bulbs or flowers inside the conservatory for the cold weather are good for display. Most indoor bulbs like Vallota (Scarborough lily) which lives early in the autumn. Although it is kept inside permanently. The characteristic of this lily is the striking red colored lily at the top of its stem that is identical to hippeastrum. Some outdoor plants can be placed indoor to keep it in good condition like colchicums, schizotylis, water lily and lilac wonder.
What is enthralling with this season is introducing the plants to your children as an indoor activity. It can also help them appreciate flowers and understand the flowers having different kinds of seasons. To keep flowers until Christmas is to place them in pots after or in the middle of September before the start of autumn. In this way, you are giving enough time for the flower to grow into the pots.
Other types of indoor flowers are Tazetta group of narcissi having varieties like Soleil d' Or' and Paper white. One basic feature of this plant is the convenience it gives to the gardener since it much quicker and simpler to grow compared to normal spring bulbs.
Design themes for your Garden
There are different kinds of themes you can choose depending in your taste. If you want your garden to have a fragrance scent then hyacinth flowers are the best choice. You can choose from purple, mauve, red, pink or white and other shades having present in late February. Associate it with daffodils, water-lily type tulip, crocuses in flower arrangement especially in small pots. You can either place it in front or back or even both sides of the house. If you are looking into an informal look then try arranging small growing hybrids of narcissi over rockeries because they form as a central subject. When centralizing a flower piece make sure that it is not too large in the pot. Other narcissi known for their aromatic sense are Jonquilla having varieties of Baby moon, Lintie and Trevithian that blooms around April and May.
In summer, exotic plants are the most popular such as crocosmia and hemerocallis. If grown together into cluster a fascinating blend of colors such as apricot and buff shades. Another unusual flower is gladiolus byzantinus having a vivid magenta color that grows in early summer. This kind of plant is the most versatile of all since it can withstand until winter. However, during the late summer, Acidanthera murielae is the best fitting plant the peculiar butterfly mark in the center is the main feature.
If you are aiming for sophisticated effect, then galtonia hyacinth is nothing but elegance. It has a dangling white colored and bell-shaped flowers falling around it stems. When it is difficult to find this kind of flower during summer one similar feature can also be found with Liatris.
However, during the autumn and winter, the display is in the indoor especially the conservatory. Most of the plants around this are the evergreens and other dwarf coloured dwarf bulbs. Other autumn flowering species are Cyclamen neapolitanum and c. purpurascens. Indoor bulbs that grow in groups that have autumn interest are tricyrtis and T. formosana stolonifera (toad lilies). But due to their less popularity most people seem to notice their flowers whose beauty can even appreciated even without looking closely at them.
What is important in having a bulb that will growing in different conditions are basically to have a well-drained pot that contains enough organic materials. Simply means that a plant should have enough water. In deciding for the type of bulb that will grow in your garden is primarily identifying the condition of your soil. Determine the type using a soil testing kits most gardening stores have. Find out if it is made of clay, sandy type, or the good loamy soil. Observe also the sun's orientation in your garden, if possible sketch the areas where there is direct sunlight and shade in any time of the day. In this way, you will have an idea which plant needs direct sunlight.
In preparing for the plant in its new soil or bed, you must first clear the area and cultivate the soil. Spread an amount of organic materials such as the biodegradable fruit left-over and vegetables into the desired space. Improve also the soil aeration and drainage. Then set in the bulbs into their positions following your design. What is important in the bulb is to plant them in a right depth. Plant them firmly by light press and twist into the soil. Afterwards, continue maintaining the area with the proper moisture.
Tips for Cultivation
Bulbs embedded into different types of containers or soil beds means specifying the kind of treatment for such. These are bulbs naturalized in borders, naturalized in lawns, wild and woodland gardens, used as bedding, containers, rockeries, raised beds and even sink gardens for outdoor bulbs. Other bulbs are indoor plants must also be treated differently and these are in the greenhouses and cold frames.
For outdoor bulbs where most environmental change occurs such as the wind, sun, moisture, humidity and even the season change that can affect the soil condition.
Bulbs naturalized in borders
Bulbs in this type of treatment should always soil treatment that can hold the bulb together and placing organic material. Feed the bulb with general-purpose feed and most popular one is Growmore especially in the month of April. Religiously do this for six to eight weeks. If the plants do not flower well, dig up the clumps and divide them to give space for each to grow after the foliage has died down. Most gardeners after seeing the foliage untidy underneath the bulbs, they clean it or trim the leaves. This is not a good idea since the foliage itself feeds the bulb if so there is a change of flowering for the next season. Naturally leave the foliage unto its sides. To prevent the plant from looking untidy place borders to keep the foliage in place.
Bulbs naturalized in lawns
To easily manage the bulbs are grouped on a bank. These not only look tidy but also help the bulbs to flower easily. Just like bulbs in borders, bulbs in the lawn need feeding. One ideal feeding is the summer and spring lawn feed for the month of April. Be careful in selecting the product that might indicate weed killer that in return kill the bulbs as well. Then, go after with autumn lawn feed in late summer or early autumn. These bubs should be left undisturbed unless they're crowded thus need some division.
Soil bedding used temporarily
Some bulbs embedded temporarily unto the ground that are different from bulbs naturalized in lawns or borders. Like traditional planting procedure such as feeding with a dressing of bone meal at a period and sometimes fertilized during spring. The only difference is when the bulbs start to flower or blossom, the ground is cleared to give way for another bedding season, bulbs are dug up. They are then placed to another container until their foliage dies naturally. When the bulbs are ready for picking, the bulbs are lifted and stored for another planting season.
Wild and woodland gardens
These bulbs left undisturbed in their natural soil without any chemicals and fertilizers being used to keep the wild flowers to flourish. However, despite the general idea, gardeners must also cultivate the soil for natural landscape. Other bulbs that are present in this type of soil bed are wood sorrel and bluebells since they require less attention and feeds. But lilies and other well known bulbs for light shaded woodland need special care. A thoroughly composted organic material is a requirement for lilies during spring. The young buds need protection from slugs. Home remedies tested by most gardeners for eradicating slugs are saucer of beer wherein the slugs drown themselves if not use slug pellets.
Spring bulbs in containers
For effective container pots for the bulbs, used soil based potting compost instead of garden soil. You may join two types of bulbs for ornamental effect but space them evenly to the container. Then top it with a compost soil and other organic material. Then press and twist the soil to hold the bulbs together before watering them. Keep the containers in a shady area to give time for the bulbs to take root. After the flower buds had appeared, that is the only time you place it to your garden. Water the bud sparingly at first and only you will give regular liquid feeds after the buds appear.
Rockeries, Raised beds and Sink Gardens
To set up for a rockery, raised bed or sink garden, begin it with a foundation using a coarse drainage material. On the bottom, use a layer of broken rocks or coarse gravel about to 2 inches for sink garden while for rockery and raised bed use broken bricks and rubble. After the base, top it with a loamy topsoil and grit for rockeries and raised beds while on sink gardens create a mixture of compost soil and John Innes no. 2 potting compost blend proportionally. Enhance the bedding by placing large stones on the sides to draw attention. Most of these rock gardens look artificial from the original view of plant and rock formation. But what is important is to make sure that the rock plants will grow around the stone formation and there is proper surface drainage rather than ornamental effects only. Rock gardens and raised beds need less attention than sink gardens unless for those weeds those easily grow on the sides. Depending in the season wherein in winter, plants protected from rain while on summer, plants needed regular watering. Feeding in this type of treatment is not necessary; the compost itself will supply all the sustenance it needs. But after three to four years, be sure to remove the compost entirely and replace it with a new one.
For indoor bulbs, treatment is less complicated since bulbs were placed in containers. These kinds of flowers are sensitive from changing environmental changes.
Indoor bulbs
These kinds of species of bulbs are developed and endured within the safety of a shelter. The key for growing indoor bulbs is similar to growing other houseplant. Tender bulbs sold as other growing plants during spring and autumn. When you are starting a new bulb, keep the soil barely enough to hold the bulbs. Water tight after being planted, press the soil and keep the soil in shelter until new shoots appear, then eventually and slightly water the bulb as it starts to grow. If the bulb is already stable, water regularly and start using liquid houseplant feed when the flower buds appear. Most cycle of plants, follow that kind of pattern just like outdoor plants. But other plants that respond differently as if undeveloped such as the leaves starts to yellow and fall. What you will do is to reduce the feeling and watering to let the bulbs eventually become dormant. Yet continue doing it and let it in their pots with the compost kept dry. So observe the behavior of the plant especially for the newly planted one.
Bulbs in Greenhouses and cold frames
This kind of conservatory used to keep the bulbs from frost during winter. Special kinds of bulbs such as daffodil hybrids, alpine house bulbs and other bulbs that used for exhibition that needs protection from winter wind, snow and rain. In this type of cultivation, heat is vital to keep the tender species to be cultivated in a heat of 40F using electric soil-warming cables. Although each species requires specific attention but this suggestion applies to all. First is watering, proper caring given to this tender species since they are at risk to rotting or decaying. Then these plants should be kept dry. Unlike during summer, where most plants needed a lot of watering. Ventilation is also important. In greenhouses and cold frames, exchange of air is necessary from outside to inside the conservatory.
For outdoor bulbs where most environmental change occurs such as the wind, sun, moisture, humidity and even the season change that can affect the soil condition.
Bulbs naturalized in borders
Bulbs in this type of treatment should always soil treatment that can hold the bulb together and placing organic material. Feed the bulb with general-purpose feed and most popular one is Growmore especially in the month of April. Religiously do this for six to eight weeks. If the plants do not flower well, dig up the clumps and divide them to give space for each to grow after the foliage has died down. Most gardeners after seeing the foliage untidy underneath the bulbs, they clean it or trim the leaves. This is not a good idea since the foliage itself feeds the bulb if so there is a change of flowering for the next season. Naturally leave the foliage unto its sides. To prevent the plant from looking untidy place borders to keep the foliage in place.
Bulbs naturalized in lawns
To easily manage the bulbs are grouped on a bank. These not only look tidy but also help the bulbs to flower easily. Just like bulbs in borders, bulbs in the lawn need feeding. One ideal feeding is the summer and spring lawn feed for the month of April. Be careful in selecting the product that might indicate weed killer that in return kill the bulbs as well. Then, go after with autumn lawn feed in late summer or early autumn. These bubs should be left undisturbed unless they're crowded thus need some division.
Soil bedding used temporarily
Some bulbs embedded temporarily unto the ground that are different from bulbs naturalized in lawns or borders. Like traditional planting procedure such as feeding with a dressing of bone meal at a period and sometimes fertilized during spring. The only difference is when the bulbs start to flower or blossom, the ground is cleared to give way for another bedding season, bulbs are dug up. They are then placed to another container until their foliage dies naturally. When the bulbs are ready for picking, the bulbs are lifted and stored for another planting season.
Wild and woodland gardens
These bulbs left undisturbed in their natural soil without any chemicals and fertilizers being used to keep the wild flowers to flourish. However, despite the general idea, gardeners must also cultivate the soil for natural landscape. Other bulbs that are present in this type of soil bed are wood sorrel and bluebells since they require less attention and feeds. But lilies and other well known bulbs for light shaded woodland need special care. A thoroughly composted organic material is a requirement for lilies during spring. The young buds need protection from slugs. Home remedies tested by most gardeners for eradicating slugs are saucer of beer wherein the slugs drown themselves if not use slug pellets.
Spring bulbs in containers
For effective container pots for the bulbs, used soil based potting compost instead of garden soil. You may join two types of bulbs for ornamental effect but space them evenly to the container. Then top it with a compost soil and other organic material. Then press and twist the soil to hold the bulbs together before watering them. Keep the containers in a shady area to give time for the bulbs to take root. After the flower buds had appeared, that is the only time you place it to your garden. Water the bud sparingly at first and only you will give regular liquid feeds after the buds appear.
Rockeries, Raised beds and Sink Gardens
To set up for a rockery, raised bed or sink garden, begin it with a foundation using a coarse drainage material. On the bottom, use a layer of broken rocks or coarse gravel about to 2 inches for sink garden while for rockery and raised bed use broken bricks and rubble. After the base, top it with a loamy topsoil and grit for rockeries and raised beds while on sink gardens create a mixture of compost soil and John Innes no. 2 potting compost blend proportionally. Enhance the bedding by placing large stones on the sides to draw attention. Most of these rock gardens look artificial from the original view of plant and rock formation. But what is important is to make sure that the rock plants will grow around the stone formation and there is proper surface drainage rather than ornamental effects only. Rock gardens and raised beds need less attention than sink gardens unless for those weeds those easily grow on the sides. Depending in the season wherein in winter, plants protected from rain while on summer, plants needed regular watering. Feeding in this type of treatment is not necessary; the compost itself will supply all the sustenance it needs. But after three to four years, be sure to remove the compost entirely and replace it with a new one.
For indoor bulbs, treatment is less complicated since bulbs were placed in containers. These kinds of flowers are sensitive from changing environmental changes.
Indoor bulbs
These kinds of species of bulbs are developed and endured within the safety of a shelter. The key for growing indoor bulbs is similar to growing other houseplant. Tender bulbs sold as other growing plants during spring and autumn. When you are starting a new bulb, keep the soil barely enough to hold the bulbs. Water tight after being planted, press the soil and keep the soil in shelter until new shoots appear, then eventually and slightly water the bulb as it starts to grow. If the bulb is already stable, water regularly and start using liquid houseplant feed when the flower buds appear. Most cycle of plants, follow that kind of pattern just like outdoor plants. But other plants that respond differently as if undeveloped such as the leaves starts to yellow and fall. What you will do is to reduce the feeling and watering to let the bulbs eventually become dormant. Yet continue doing it and let it in their pots with the compost kept dry. So observe the behavior of the plant especially for the newly planted one.
Bulbs in Greenhouses and cold frames
This kind of conservatory used to keep the bulbs from frost during winter. Special kinds of bulbs such as daffodil hybrids, alpine house bulbs and other bulbs that used for exhibition that needs protection from winter wind, snow and rain. In this type of cultivation, heat is vital to keep the tender species to be cultivated in a heat of 40F using electric soil-warming cables. Although each species requires specific attention but this suggestion applies to all. First is watering, proper caring given to this tender species since they are at risk to rotting or decaying. Then these plants should be kept dry. Unlike during summer, where most plants needed a lot of watering. Ventilation is also important. In greenhouses and cold frames, exchange of air is necessary from outside to inside the conservatory.
Learn How You Can Grow Orchids At Home
by Lee Dobbins
Many people think that growing orchids is something that can only be done in big hothouses however, you can grow orchids at home if you pick the right type and provide it with the right environment.
Growing orchids can be a rewarding hobby and can produce beautiful plants that you can enjoy or give as gifts. If you have a green thumb and love exotic plants, then growing them yourself is something that might be worth the effort.
Orchids that work best for home growing are those that grow high in the trees hanging from the branches and get the nutrition from the rain, jungle air and decaying vegetation that their roots come in contact with. In order to grow these orchids at home, you'll need to provide them with a growing area that comes close to their native environment.
Humidity
Orchids thrive in humid climates and if you want to grow them at home you'll need to provide them with an area where they can have at least 50% humidity. in order to do this, you can set your orchid pots on a tray that is filled with water but not In the tray just above it so that the humidity from the water can come up with a water does not soak into the pot. may sting is also important to make sure there is sufficient in circulation so that the leaves and pedals can dry off properly.
Water
It's important that your work is to not sit in water but remain moist. You should water than once a week after the soil has dried out. Make sure there is no standing water. Fertilize with a water-soluable fertilizer made specifically for orchids.
Sunlight
Different types of orchids need different amounts of sunlight and if you can't provide natural sunlight you can try fluorescent grow lights. In the winter, your records will need at least four hours of light.
Soil
You can buy ready mixed orchid potting mixes and this is what you should use for your orchids.
Pests
Orchids can be prone to diseases and pests. They can succumb to fungal disease viral disease and bacterial disease and often have mites, aphids, caterpillars, slugs, mealy bugs, snails, white flies, and dendrobium beatles. growing them indoors can reduce the bugs immensely but you still have to be on the lookout for pests and disease.
To treat pests on your orchids, you should use pesticides from a local garden supply store. Be sure to always use them per instructions. If you can, try to go with organic pesticides that are easy on the environment.
Many people think that growing orchids is something that can only be done in big hothouses however, you can grow orchids at home if you pick the right type and provide it with the right environment.
Growing orchids can be a rewarding hobby and can produce beautiful plants that you can enjoy or give as gifts. If you have a green thumb and love exotic plants, then growing them yourself is something that might be worth the effort.
Orchids that work best for home growing are those that grow high in the trees hanging from the branches and get the nutrition from the rain, jungle air and decaying vegetation that their roots come in contact with. In order to grow these orchids at home, you'll need to provide them with a growing area that comes close to their native environment.
Humidity
Orchids thrive in humid climates and if you want to grow them at home you'll need to provide them with an area where they can have at least 50% humidity. in order to do this, you can set your orchid pots on a tray that is filled with water but not In the tray just above it so that the humidity from the water can come up with a water does not soak into the pot. may sting is also important to make sure there is sufficient in circulation so that the leaves and pedals can dry off properly.
Water
It's important that your work is to not sit in water but remain moist. You should water than once a week after the soil has dried out. Make sure there is no standing water. Fertilize with a water-soluable fertilizer made specifically for orchids.
Sunlight
Different types of orchids need different amounts of sunlight and if you can't provide natural sunlight you can try fluorescent grow lights. In the winter, your records will need at least four hours of light.
Soil
You can buy ready mixed orchid potting mixes and this is what you should use for your orchids.
Pests
Orchids can be prone to diseases and pests. They can succumb to fungal disease viral disease and bacterial disease and often have mites, aphids, caterpillars, slugs, mealy bugs, snails, white flies, and dendrobium beatles. growing them indoors can reduce the bugs immensely but you still have to be on the lookout for pests and disease.
To treat pests on your orchids, you should use pesticides from a local garden supply store. Be sure to always use them per instructions. If you can, try to go with organic pesticides that are easy on the environment.
Planting Herbs in the Fall
by Ted Roberson
For gardeners who have tried and possibly failed at planting herbs in the spring or summer, you may have already figured out that planting in the fall is usually best for many herbs. Especially for herbs grown from bulbs, planting them in the fall gives them a chance to make roots and they will be ready for harvest in the spring. Since herbs are almost always very delicate plants, planting in the fall is the best because of the cool weather. The harsh humid conditions that occur in many parts of the country throughout the summer means that herbs will have a difficult time getting started, let alone surviving.
Of course, planting herbs in the fall is not for all climate zones, especially for climate zones above 5 or 6, and not for all herbs. In these climate zones, it is usually cool enough through the spring and summer months to grow herbs and may be too cool in the quickly approaching cold weather of the fall months. If you are interested in particular herbs then it is best to research their hardiness independently for climate zones 1-5.
For the rest of the country, planting in the fall works well because herbs need lots of sun, but do not need the humidity that goes along with the sunshine. There is a fine balance between too little and too much sunshine for these delicate plants, who usually need about five to six hours of sunlight a day. Keep in mind that there are a few herbs that enjoy the shade, such as parsley and mint, but the majority of them prefer at least a few hours of sunlight a day.
The best part about planting in the fall is that herbs can easily be planted in containers, just in case the weather gets cold. This way herbs can be moved to a greenhouse or indoors where grow lights or just placing them in a sunny window will keep them at bay for the winter.
It really is best to start out small plants or herbs from seeds in small pots in the fall and transfer them to the ground in the spring, if at all. Since they are so fragile, placing them right in the ground might mean not getting good results. Remember that there are a few herbs that come in the form of perennial bulbs, such as garlic, fennel, saffron, and shallots, but the rest are in the form of plants or seeds. Herb perennial bulbs should be placed in the ground as the fall weather approaches, but at least 6-8 weeks before a freeze, this way they have time to establish roots before becoming dormant.
There are both annual and perennial herbs as well as biennial. Popular annual herbs include basil, borage, cilantro, chamomile, and rosemary. Popular perennials and biennials include parsley, sage, and mint. Most herbs are annuals and the point of planting herbs in the fall is to give them a chance to get rooted and be prepared for an entire season in the early spring and summer months. That means you will be harvesting these annuals in the midst of the summer when the heat of the summer is useful in helping dry herbs for storage.
For gardeners who have tried and possibly failed at planting herbs in the spring or summer, you may have already figured out that planting in the fall is usually best for many herbs. Especially for herbs grown from bulbs, planting them in the fall gives them a chance to make roots and they will be ready for harvest in the spring. Since herbs are almost always very delicate plants, planting in the fall is the best because of the cool weather. The harsh humid conditions that occur in many parts of the country throughout the summer means that herbs will have a difficult time getting started, let alone surviving.
Of course, planting herbs in the fall is not for all climate zones, especially for climate zones above 5 or 6, and not for all herbs. In these climate zones, it is usually cool enough through the spring and summer months to grow herbs and may be too cool in the quickly approaching cold weather of the fall months. If you are interested in particular herbs then it is best to research their hardiness independently for climate zones 1-5.
For the rest of the country, planting in the fall works well because herbs need lots of sun, but do not need the humidity that goes along with the sunshine. There is a fine balance between too little and too much sunshine for these delicate plants, who usually need about five to six hours of sunlight a day. Keep in mind that there are a few herbs that enjoy the shade, such as parsley and mint, but the majority of them prefer at least a few hours of sunlight a day.
The best part about planting in the fall is that herbs can easily be planted in containers, just in case the weather gets cold. This way herbs can be moved to a greenhouse or indoors where grow lights or just placing them in a sunny window will keep them at bay for the winter.
It really is best to start out small plants or herbs from seeds in small pots in the fall and transfer them to the ground in the spring, if at all. Since they are so fragile, placing them right in the ground might mean not getting good results. Remember that there are a few herbs that come in the form of perennial bulbs, such as garlic, fennel, saffron, and shallots, but the rest are in the form of plants or seeds. Herb perennial bulbs should be placed in the ground as the fall weather approaches, but at least 6-8 weeks before a freeze, this way they have time to establish roots before becoming dormant.
There are both annual and perennial herbs as well as biennial. Popular annual herbs include basil, borage, cilantro, chamomile, and rosemary. Popular perennials and biennials include parsley, sage, and mint. Most herbs are annuals and the point of planting herbs in the fall is to give them a chance to get rooted and be prepared for an entire season in the early spring and summer months. That means you will be harvesting these annuals in the midst of the summer when the heat of the summer is useful in helping dry herbs for storage.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
What Defines Someone as a Gardener?
By Christina VanGinkel
I had printed out a list of the various blogs I like to write for, and the different websites and print publications that I have written for in the past, or have ideas that I would like to follow up with a submission. The list was solely for my own personal reference as I have been going though a stage where I feel if I could just get a bit more organized; I would somehow discover more time in my days. By seeing what I am accomplishing, I hope it will also provide inspiration for even more articles, as I am at my happiest when I am getting the opportunity to share my thoughts and ideas with others through my words.
The list was lying by my desk where my husband had sat down to do a bit of bill paying. I saw him glancing at the list, but was unprepared when he turned to me and with all the sincerity in his voice he could muster, asked me if I wrote much for the gardening blog I had in the list.
Why would he ask me that was my response? Well, he went on to say that while we both enjoyed gardening, he was the true gardener in the family, and he could not imagine that I would have a lot to say on the subject, as I mostly just enjoyed the garden after he did the work.
I thought on this for a moment before answering, because part of what he had said was true. If I had to appoint one of the two of us as the official gardener in the house, he would win without trouble. He has a knack with plants that I have never been able to achieve. He can take a seedling that is on its last day here on Earth, and in a few days time have that seedling looking as if it were the ideal specimen to represent whatever plant family it was from. He can also tell a weed from a plant, whereas for as many years as I have been pulling weeds, I invariably still pull plants that were supposed to be in the garden!
I do love to garden, but I love even more to spend time sitting and admiring it.. Too often in the past, when I have tried to pull my fair share of the work involved with our gardens, I end up doing more damage than help. Still, I love other garden related chores, This spring, tired of a walkway design that I had created a few years ago, I ripped up all the offending parts of the design, and even carted away all the removed edging and stone. My husband liked how it turned out and the walkway is much the better for the work I did. I am also good at picking out garden art, and creating it. I have contributed birdhouses both wooden and those made of natural materials, i.e., gourds. When I reminded him of these parts of my time in the garden, he did concede that I was right (that was a first!), as far as those things were concerned. He even told me he really liked the last gourd I had painted and made into a birdhouse.
I also help keep the many bird feeders full throughout the year and when we had a problem last winter with a disease that was spreading through the smaller birds who visited the feeders, it was me who took them all down, bleached them all, and put them back out.
I might not be the proverbial green thumb contributor to our garden, but I do contribute. I also reap the rewards that come from both of our work. I enjoy the early days of spring when the green of the garden is finding its first rays of warm sun to reach out to, as much as I do the garden in its snow-covered form come the depths of winter. No, I might not be able to write about how to create a cross breed hybrid plant, or tell you how to mix just the right amount of topsoil with manure to provide a soil rich enough to grow almost anything imaginable, yet at the same time not so strong that it burns the plants instead of helps feed them, but I can still lay claim to being a gardener, and write about my trials and tribulations as one!
I had printed out a list of the various blogs I like to write for, and the different websites and print publications that I have written for in the past, or have ideas that I would like to follow up with a submission. The list was solely for my own personal reference as I have been going though a stage where I feel if I could just get a bit more organized; I would somehow discover more time in my days. By seeing what I am accomplishing, I hope it will also provide inspiration for even more articles, as I am at my happiest when I am getting the opportunity to share my thoughts and ideas with others through my words.
The list was lying by my desk where my husband had sat down to do a bit of bill paying. I saw him glancing at the list, but was unprepared when he turned to me and with all the sincerity in his voice he could muster, asked me if I wrote much for the gardening blog I had in the list.
Why would he ask me that was my response? Well, he went on to say that while we both enjoyed gardening, he was the true gardener in the family, and he could not imagine that I would have a lot to say on the subject, as I mostly just enjoyed the garden after he did the work.
I thought on this for a moment before answering, because part of what he had said was true. If I had to appoint one of the two of us as the official gardener in the house, he would win without trouble. He has a knack with plants that I have never been able to achieve. He can take a seedling that is on its last day here on Earth, and in a few days time have that seedling looking as if it were the ideal specimen to represent whatever plant family it was from. He can also tell a weed from a plant, whereas for as many years as I have been pulling weeds, I invariably still pull plants that were supposed to be in the garden!
I do love to garden, but I love even more to spend time sitting and admiring it.. Too often in the past, when I have tried to pull my fair share of the work involved with our gardens, I end up doing more damage than help. Still, I love other garden related chores, This spring, tired of a walkway design that I had created a few years ago, I ripped up all the offending parts of the design, and even carted away all the removed edging and stone. My husband liked how it turned out and the walkway is much the better for the work I did. I am also good at picking out garden art, and creating it. I have contributed birdhouses both wooden and those made of natural materials, i.e., gourds. When I reminded him of these parts of my time in the garden, he did concede that I was right (that was a first!), as far as those things were concerned. He even told me he really liked the last gourd I had painted and made into a birdhouse.
I also help keep the many bird feeders full throughout the year and when we had a problem last winter with a disease that was spreading through the smaller birds who visited the feeders, it was me who took them all down, bleached them all, and put them back out.
I might not be the proverbial green thumb contributor to our garden, but I do contribute. I also reap the rewards that come from both of our work. I enjoy the early days of spring when the green of the garden is finding its first rays of warm sun to reach out to, as much as I do the garden in its snow-covered form come the depths of winter. No, I might not be able to write about how to create a cross breed hybrid plant, or tell you how to mix just the right amount of topsoil with manure to provide a soil rich enough to grow almost anything imaginable, yet at the same time not so strong that it burns the plants instead of helps feed them, but I can still lay claim to being a gardener, and write about my trials and tribulations as one!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Winter Gardening
When late fall and ultimately, winter, arrives on the scene, many amateur gardeners put away their spades and go inside to wait for the warmth of spring. While there is not much outdoor gardening to be done during the cold winter months, gardeners can still be active. Not only are there opportunities for indoor gardening, gardeners can enjoy planning their garden for next year, as well as organizing and replenishing their tools. When the cold winds and snows of winter begin to blow at your house and you think your gardening days are over, think again, and consider doing the following to pass the time.
Clean out your shed or garage. Wherever you keep your gardening tools, whether it is in a tool shed out back, in your garage, or on a shelf in your basement, you know the place. It is a messy place that is neglected all summer long while you enjoy the sunshine of the outdoors and all your precious flowers and plants. Winter is a great time to go through all your gardening tools and items to see what needs to be replaced, and to neatly store the items you will keep. Make sure your spades, rakes, shovels and other tools are in good working order. If anything is broken or unsafe, either fix it or replace it. Clean out the watering can and empty and store your garden hose. Wash and repair your gardening gloves, or better yet, buy yourself a brand new pair that will be waiting for you, come spring. Clear off any shelves or clean out any bins that hold your equipment. Clean and fold up your work table, and store any insect repellants, fertilizers and other like items in a safe place. Wash or wipe them down and then line everything back up neatly. This way, when the frost melts and you are ready to plant your seedlings in a few months, your gardening equipment will be ready.
Map out a plan for next spring. Gardeners are as varied as the plants they enjoy working with. Some like to wait and see what the spring brings, and buy plants and vegetables on a whim, while others enjoy planning exactly what they will do. If you are not much of a planner, at least consider taking out your calendar and planning what to do when. Find out exactly when it is safe to begin planting outdoors in your area, when all signs of frost will be gone. Mark this on your calendar and then count back six to eight weeks so you will know when you can begin planting and nurturing the seeds for your garden. Mark a week or so before that date as the time when you will need to buy soil, seeds, etc. Having a plan will help you not to get behind schedule on your gardening; this is especially important if you live in a climate that has a short growing season. Once you have your calendar planned out, write down ideas for which plants you will grow and where you will put them. Will your vegetable garden be in the same place this year? If so, exactly how do you want to lay out the vegetables? Where will you plant your perennial flowers this year? Will you put impatiens in the hanging pots as you do every year, or this year will it be geraniums? Ask yourself these questions and enjoy making your plan. It will save you time and money in the spring.
Do indoor gardening. The winter months often bring sunshine into our homes as no other time does. With all the leaves gone from the trees and the sun at a low angle, we often find sunshine streaming through the windows. Consider planting seeds which will grow through the winter, or bring in your impatiens and see if you can nurse them through the winter months. Setting up small terrariums and miniature gardens in our windows during the winter helps to take away the winter blues and makes the time pass much more quickly.
With these ideas in mind, the winter will pass and before you know it, you will be back out in your garden, digging in the soil, enjoying the sunshine, and wondering what you did all winter!
Clean out your shed or garage. Wherever you keep your gardening tools, whether it is in a tool shed out back, in your garage, or on a shelf in your basement, you know the place. It is a messy place that is neglected all summer long while you enjoy the sunshine of the outdoors and all your precious flowers and plants. Winter is a great time to go through all your gardening tools and items to see what needs to be replaced, and to neatly store the items you will keep. Make sure your spades, rakes, shovels and other tools are in good working order. If anything is broken or unsafe, either fix it or replace it. Clean out the watering can and empty and store your garden hose. Wash and repair your gardening gloves, or better yet, buy yourself a brand new pair that will be waiting for you, come spring. Clear off any shelves or clean out any bins that hold your equipment. Clean and fold up your work table, and store any insect repellants, fertilizers and other like items in a safe place. Wash or wipe them down and then line everything back up neatly. This way, when the frost melts and you are ready to plant your seedlings in a few months, your gardening equipment will be ready.
Map out a plan for next spring. Gardeners are as varied as the plants they enjoy working with. Some like to wait and see what the spring brings, and buy plants and vegetables on a whim, while others enjoy planning exactly what they will do. If you are not much of a planner, at least consider taking out your calendar and planning what to do when. Find out exactly when it is safe to begin planting outdoors in your area, when all signs of frost will be gone. Mark this on your calendar and then count back six to eight weeks so you will know when you can begin planting and nurturing the seeds for your garden. Mark a week or so before that date as the time when you will need to buy soil, seeds, etc. Having a plan will help you not to get behind schedule on your gardening; this is especially important if you live in a climate that has a short growing season. Once you have your calendar planned out, write down ideas for which plants you will grow and where you will put them. Will your vegetable garden be in the same place this year? If so, exactly how do you want to lay out the vegetables? Where will you plant your perennial flowers this year? Will you put impatiens in the hanging pots as you do every year, or this year will it be geraniums? Ask yourself these questions and enjoy making your plan. It will save you time and money in the spring.
Do indoor gardening. The winter months often bring sunshine into our homes as no other time does. With all the leaves gone from the trees and the sun at a low angle, we often find sunshine streaming through the windows. Consider planting seeds which will grow through the winter, or bring in your impatiens and see if you can nurse them through the winter months. Setting up small terrariums and miniature gardens in our windows during the winter helps to take away the winter blues and makes the time pass much more quickly.
With these ideas in mind, the winter will pass and before you know it, you will be back out in your garden, digging in the soil, enjoying the sunshine, and wondering what you did all winter!
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Ten Things Every Gardener Needs
All good gardeners, and even most lousy gardeners, know that there are certain tools and items every gardener should keep in his or her garage or gardening shed. While fads come and go and new consumable supplies must be bought every year, some items will always be needed and should be kept on hand permanently. Following are a few tried and true gardening tools and supplies that no gardener should be without.
1. Spade. This might seem painfully obvious, but often the spade is the most overlooked, as well as misplaced, item in the gardener's stash. Make sure your spade is in good working order with the handle securing attached to the shovel. You will use your spade in the garden, as well as for potted plants and when arranging your window boxes.
2. Large Shovel. For the times when the spade is simply too small, make sure you have a regular sized shovel on hand. This is handy when a large potted plant needs to be planted in the garden, or if you decide to dig up a small tree or bush. As with the spade, make sure your shovel is in good working order.
3. Rakes. You will need more than one rake for your gardening: a leaf rake and a bow rake. A leaf rake is usually quite flexible and is best for cleaning out the garden in the fall and the spring. A bow rake has hard, immovable teeth that area good for tilling the soil of the garden or thatching the lawn. Store your rakes upright with the teeth facing up to avoid tripping over them.
4. Watering Can. Although many gardeners will use their garden hose for watering the garden, the potted plants and the window boxes, a watering can can be handy, especially if you are in a hurry. A helpful tip is to fill your watering can the night before you plan to water the garden. Then, the next morning, when it is time to water the pots and the garden, the hose can stay neatly coiled while you go about your watering, and you will not be late for work. Choose a large, plastic watering can for this chore, and if you have many plants or a large garden, two watering cans might be handy.
5. Sprinkler. This is optional, but if your garden is exceptionally large and receives sun for most of the day, you might want to consider letting the sprinkler run on the garden for about twenty minutes each morning before the sun rises. Never water your lawn or garden while the sun is shining on it, as most of the water will evaporate, and the leaves might be burnt from the magnification of the sun through the drops of water.
6. Shelving. Shelves are imperative for a gardener to keep all his or her aforementioned items stored neatly. Wall hooks are also helpful for storing spades, shovels, rakes, and hoes.
7. Work Table. Nothing is more painful that squatting down on the lawn or porch to pot plants or plant seedlings in pots. Consider purchasing a work table. It does not have to be fancy or expensive; a card table will do, or a cheap, plastic lawn table. Use something to save your back from the strain of bending over. And if you choose, use a chair as well so you can sit comfortably while you work on your seedlings.
8. Insect Repellant. Depending on where you live, insects might be more or less of a problem. In many areas, insect repellant must be worn from head to toe to prevent bites and stings from mosquitoes and biting flies. Even if these are not a problem, there are always bees, hornets and yellow jackets nearby, and it is better if they are persuaded not to take a nibble.
9. Gardening Gloves. While it can be fun to work our fingers into fresh, black soil, you will thank yourself later if you protect your hands now. Gardening gloves will not only keep your hands clean, they will keep your skin from drying out and protect your skin and nails from injury.
10. Sun Protection. Always use a hat and sunscreen to protect your face and body from the harmful rays of the sun.
With these tips in mind, come spring, you will be ready and your garden will be waiting.
1. Spade. This might seem painfully obvious, but often the spade is the most overlooked, as well as misplaced, item in the gardener's stash. Make sure your spade is in good working order with the handle securing attached to the shovel. You will use your spade in the garden, as well as for potted plants and when arranging your window boxes.
2. Large Shovel. For the times when the spade is simply too small, make sure you have a regular sized shovel on hand. This is handy when a large potted plant needs to be planted in the garden, or if you decide to dig up a small tree or bush. As with the spade, make sure your shovel is in good working order.
3. Rakes. You will need more than one rake for your gardening: a leaf rake and a bow rake. A leaf rake is usually quite flexible and is best for cleaning out the garden in the fall and the spring. A bow rake has hard, immovable teeth that area good for tilling the soil of the garden or thatching the lawn. Store your rakes upright with the teeth facing up to avoid tripping over them.
4. Watering Can. Although many gardeners will use their garden hose for watering the garden, the potted plants and the window boxes, a watering can can be handy, especially if you are in a hurry. A helpful tip is to fill your watering can the night before you plan to water the garden. Then, the next morning, when it is time to water the pots and the garden, the hose can stay neatly coiled while you go about your watering, and you will not be late for work. Choose a large, plastic watering can for this chore, and if you have many plants or a large garden, two watering cans might be handy.
5. Sprinkler. This is optional, but if your garden is exceptionally large and receives sun for most of the day, you might want to consider letting the sprinkler run on the garden for about twenty minutes each morning before the sun rises. Never water your lawn or garden while the sun is shining on it, as most of the water will evaporate, and the leaves might be burnt from the magnification of the sun through the drops of water.
6. Shelving. Shelves are imperative for a gardener to keep all his or her aforementioned items stored neatly. Wall hooks are also helpful for storing spades, shovels, rakes, and hoes.
7. Work Table. Nothing is more painful that squatting down on the lawn or porch to pot plants or plant seedlings in pots. Consider purchasing a work table. It does not have to be fancy or expensive; a card table will do, or a cheap, plastic lawn table. Use something to save your back from the strain of bending over. And if you choose, use a chair as well so you can sit comfortably while you work on your seedlings.
8. Insect Repellant. Depending on where you live, insects might be more or less of a problem. In many areas, insect repellant must be worn from head to toe to prevent bites and stings from mosquitoes and biting flies. Even if these are not a problem, there are always bees, hornets and yellow jackets nearby, and it is better if they are persuaded not to take a nibble.
9. Gardening Gloves. While it can be fun to work our fingers into fresh, black soil, you will thank yourself later if you protect your hands now. Gardening gloves will not only keep your hands clean, they will keep your skin from drying out and protect your skin and nails from injury.
10. Sun Protection. Always use a hat and sunscreen to protect your face and body from the harmful rays of the sun.
With these tips in mind, come spring, you will be ready and your garden will be waiting.
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