Search Results for: fertilizer

Preparing Your Garden for Summer

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Image of of a tubing used in a drip irrigation system

Getting your garden summer-ready might seem like a **huge task**. I’ve dealt with the hard work of making sure plants stay **green and spry** under the scorching sun. After lots of experimenting and scouring every gardening tip, I realized how **essential** it is to prepare your garden for the hot season. This article provides simple … Read more

Late Summer Garden Maintenance: What To Do Now

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Tony O'Neill looking through his huge rhubarb plants

As the warm glow of late summer began to dim in my garden, I couldn’t help but notice it was starting to show its age. It dawned on me that this was a common hurdle faced by many gardeners this time of year. My mission to breathe new life into my cherished outdoor space led … Read more

Top Benefits of Compost Tea Gardening

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A person pours compost tea into a new vessel, highlighting the benefits of compost tea.

Compost tea is a biological fertilizer for the garden. Gardeners all around the world are screaming about the top benefits of compost tea. So, what is compost tea? Compost tea is a liquid fertilizer otherwise known as liquid gold or black gold.

How to Grow Giant Marrows: An Ultimate Guide

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Tony O'Neill proudly displays his giant marrows, demonstrating his expertise in growing massive vegetables with his proven method on "How To Grow Giant Marrows."

Giant Marrow preparation starts during the winter months. I prepare the soil in readiness for growing these Giants. These plants grow large and depending on how many you wish to grow will determine the size of the area required.

Compost 101: How to Get it Right for Your Plants

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Two hands holding compost with unbroken down compost in the background, showcasing Composting 101.

Compost fosters bacteria that are used for breaking down organic matter. However, excessive amounts will cause it to be anaerobic. Applying too much compost to plants will cause them to be more prone to diseases, making it necessary to apply only one inch of compost per year on top of your plants.

Does Miracle-Gro Go Bad? The Facts

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ony O'Neill planting flowers in a planter with Miracle-Gro Organic compost, wondering, "Does Miracle-Gro Go Bad?

Miracle-Gro has a relatively long shelf life but will eventually go bad. Usually, at around the three-year mark, it will not be at its best original state anymore. Its vitality as a fertilizer is also affected by certain other factors such as how the Miracle-Gro is stored and external factors.

Potting Mix vs Soil: Which is Better for Your Plants?

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Hands holding potting soil vs. potting mix: A pair of hands holding two types of soil in separate containers, showcasing the difference between potting soil and potting mix.

There is a difference between potting soil and potting mix, even though these two terms are used interchangeably. Potting mix is a strictly soilless medium, whereas potting soil may or may not have soil. Because it does not include soil, it cannot harbor fungus or other diseases; for this reason, potting mix is safer for plants.

How to Grow Strawberries at Home

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A man holding a large pot of strawberry plants with ripe red strawberries. Learn how to grow strawberries at home.

A comprehensive guide on how to grow strawberries at home, including tips on choosing the right variety of strawberry plant, planting and caring for them, and ensuring a bountiful harvest. The article also covers the three main categories of strawberry plants, including day-neutral, June-bearing, and everbearing.

How Often To Water Philodendron

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A lush green Philodendron plant in a ceramic pot, surrounded by droplets of water, highlighting the importance of proper watering for Philodendron care.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} Philodendrons prefer to stay evenly moist but not wet, so they need well-draining soil to retain some moisture. Sand drains but dries too quickly, and clay soils don’t drain. The solution lies somewhere in the middle, balancing organic and inert material. General Philodendron Care Philodendrons should only be watered when the top … Read more

How Long Do Parsnips Take To Grow At Home

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A cluster of mature parsnip plants with leafy tops, representing the growth of parsnips at home.

Parsnips require similar care to their sister carrots, including deep, sandy loam oil. Their quality improves when harvested after a hard, killing frost. This same process of starch to sugar conversion caused by frost can be achieved if roots are refrigerated for a month before being consumed.

How To Take Care of a Succulent Indoors

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A well-maintained succulent plant positioned indoors, with healthy and vibrant leaves in various shapes and sizes.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} Succulents are typically sun-loving plants that require lots of light. Some species may survive in lower light conditions, but most need six to eight hours of intense light to thrive. In the desert, it is hot during the day and chilly at night, so succulents can adapt to a range of temperatures. … Read more

How Does a Compost Toilet Work? PROS & CONS

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A diagram illustrating the functioning of a compost toilet, depicting the flow of waste, decomposition process, and resulting compost.

The main tenet of composting toilets is ecological responsibility, a behavior option fast becoming non-negotiable. Ecological sanitation (eco-san) is a strategy that tries to conserve water, reduce pollution, and return consumed nutrients to the soil.

Philodendron “Rojo Congo” Care Guide

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A vibrant Philodendron "Rojo Congo" plant with large, glossy leaves in shades of deep green and burgundy. Learn the care guide now.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} The Rojo Congo is more prominent and broader than other red varieties, has deeper red leaves, and develops far more quickly. This tropical Philodendron may grow up to four feet tall and just as wide indoors. The Philodendron “Rojo Congo” is often listed among plants that can withstand neglect. The Rojo Congo’s … Read more

How to Revive a Succulent

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A withered succulent plant being nurtured with water, sunlight, and care, symbolizing the process of reviving a succulent.

Succulents are tolerant plants, and though they are durable and tough, they still need some attention once or twice a year. Remember, they don’t grow in deserts; their natural habitats are semi-arid regions with irregular rainfall. Even succulents need help in the hard times.

How and When to Fertilize Bonsai Trees

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Hand sprinkling granular bonsai fertilizer onto the soil surface around a bonsai tree. How and When to Fertilize Bonsai Trees.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} We need to consider several variables to optimize fertilizer applications. Application timing must coincide with growth phases, soil temperatures, plant hardening needs, nutrient requirements, and local climates. Nutritional elements need to be specific in addressing bonsai development phases. Timing is essential in love, life, and fertilizer applications. Wherever you live, we’ve got … Read more

How Fast Does Monstera Grow?

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A Monstera plant with large, lush leaves and visible growth nodes, symbolizing the speed of Monstera growth.

Grown for its unique fruit, Monstera is a cultivated crop in warmer climates such as Florida. It is a fast-growing hemiepiphyte that can reach up to 40 feet or more (~12m plus). Indoors, Monstera will generally grow to about 4 feet, depending on the support structure provided and pot size.

Anthurium Crystallinum – The Complete Care Guide

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Close-up of Anthurium Crystallinum leaves showcasing its distinctive velvety texture and dark green color. Anthurium Crystallinum Care.

Anthurium plants are some of the most spectacular houseplants you’ll find. Most gardeners know the popular flamingo flower, with its vivid spathe and contrasting spadix. The A. crystallinum, also known as the Ace of Spades, has large, heart-shaped leaves with striking veined patterns.

Alocasia Zebrina The Ultimate Care Guide

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The Alocasia genus, like the Philodendrons and Monsteras, is from the Arum family (Araceae), generally referred to as the Aroids. These plants all prefer high light levels, don’t like direct sun, and need well-draining, organically rich soil.

Monstera pinnatipartita The Ultimate Care Guide

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A captivating image showcasing the unique foliage of Monstera pinnatipartita, with its distinct fenestrations and lush green leaves. Monstera pinnatipartita Care: Essential tips for nurturing this extraordinary and rare plant.

Monstera pinnatipartita:- Pinnatipartite, in botany, refers to leaves having lobes with fenestrations that extend more than halfway toward the midrib. Less deep fenestrations are called pinnatifid, while leaves with fenestrations to the midrib are pinnatisect.

Philodendron Gloriosum – The Ultimate Care Guide

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A stunning image showcasing the velvety leaves and distinct veining of a Philodendron Gloriosum plant. Philodendron Gloriosum Care: Essential tips for nurturing this exquisite and unique plant.

The species name, Philodendron, translates to tree-loving (Philo – friend; dendron – tree), but the Philodendron gloriosum is not a vining plant. In 2019 the IUCN classified P. gloriosum as vulnerable in its natural habitats in Colombia and the Hawaiian Islands.

Philodendron Birkin The Ultimate Care Guide

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Philodendron Birkin plant with dark green leaves and white pinstripes, showcasing its unique pattern. Philodendron Birkin Care.

The Philodendron Birkin is a hybrid of the Rojo Congo and Imperial Green cultivars, hybrids of Philodendron erubescens. One of its most distinguishing features is the dark-colored leaves with bright yellow pattern lines. It may revert to its Rojo Congo parentage, a dark red plant.

Monstera Albo – The Ultimate Care Guide

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A beautiful image showcasing the distinct white-variegated leaves of a Monstera Albo plant. Monstera Albo care: Essential tips for nurturing this unique and stunning variegated plant.

The claim that Monstera Albo is a mutation of the Monstera deliciosa var. borsigiana, presenting different petiole shapes and leaf spread, is contested by Plants of the World Online (POWA) – the global plant name index. The M. borsigiana is recognized only as a synonym of the M. deliciosa.

N’Joy Pothos: Care & Propagation Guide

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N’Joy Pothos (Epipremnum aureum aka E. pinnatum) is characterized by very compact growth and bright, distinctive green and white variegation. As a sub-cultivar of the ‘Marble Queen,’ it was patented in the United States, patent PP19,065, in 2009 after cultivation in Mumbai, India.

How To Propagate Tillandsia (Air Plants)?

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Propagate Air Plants - Step-by-step guide on how to propagate Tillandsia (Air Plants).

There are ways to propagate tillandsias, such as Offsets or Pups, which take less time and effort and have higher success rates. Seeds a great but take long periods to grow, They are is recommended when you don’t have an existing tillandsia.

Watering Jade Plants: A Complete Guide

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A jade plant being watered with care, demonstrating the proper watering technique for optimal growth.

You can water your Jade plants once every two to three weeks if you keep them indoors, more often if kept outdoors or in the summer season. Since they are succulents, they can keep water from their leaves for quite a while.

Fertilize Jade Plants For STUNNING Growth

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A hand sprinkling fertilizer on a healthy Jade plant, promoting stunning growth and vibrant foliage.

Fertilizers are crucial to keeping your Jade plants healthy, with a balanced amount of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. With just something simple like water-soluble plant food, your jade plant will be looking its best.

15 Best Wheelbarrows to Save Your Back

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Best Wheelbarrows - Explore 15 top wheelbarrows to save your back during heavy lifting.

Oops! Looks like there’s an error: {“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”}. You will agree that garden work can be exhausting and overwhelming, and heavy lifting has long-term effects on your back. The energy needed to move things around is bound to break one’s back for sure. Thankfully, wheelbarrows are available to help save our backs purposely! We … Read more

How To Water and Mist Air Plants (Tillandsia)?

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Water Air Plants - Learn how to properly water and mist Tillandsia (air plants).

Use a spray bottle or plant mister to spritz air plants with water every day or two. Before putting it back in its decorative container or arrangement, place the damp air plant on a towel to dry for a few hours. If you over water, the plant will die.

Pros Vs. Cons Of Drip Irrigation In Your Garden

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Drip Irrigation - Explore the pros and cons of using drip irrigation in your garden.

Using a drip irrigation system has its benefits, like exact delivery of water and nutrients, reducing water consumption, can be utilized on different types of plants, reducing soil erosion, and less labor cost. However, despite all of these benefits, drip irrigation has its disadvantages, too, like root growth restriction, the need for constant inspection, affects the fertility of the soil, and the possibility of tubing leakage.

Simplify Gardening Acquires Greenthumbwhiteapron.com

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A photo of Tony O'Neill, the renowned gardener from the Simplify Gardening community, standing proudly behind his enormous monster cabbage, weighing an impressive 67 pounds.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} I am pleased to announce that Simplify Gardening has acquired the very informative gardening website Greenthumbwhiteapron.com. For most of us, our gardens express our intimate relationship with nature, a relationship marked by continued discovery, awestruck respect, and deep appreciation. Gardening is my passion and allows me to lose myself in the garden. It can … Read more

6 Critical Nutrients That Plants Require to Grow!

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A photo of a thriving plant surrounded by icons representing the nutrients needed by plants to grow.

The nutrients that plants require for growth are broadly classified into three categories, namely primary or macronutrients (carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and potassium); secondary nutrients (calcium, magnesium, and sulfur); and micronutrients (boron, chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc).

What’s The Typical Cost Of Hiring A Gardener

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A graphic displaying the typical cost of hiring a gardener, outlining different factors influencing the expenses.

We hire a gardener when we are short on time and lack the necessary skills, equipment, and enthusiasm. It’s easy to see why gardeners charge what they do, whether for seasonal landscaping maintenance, one-off work like bond cleans, or regular lawn care service.

15 Easy To Grow Succulents for Beginners

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picture of succulent plants

Succulents are a group of plants that are adapted to store water in their tissues. These plants are native to arid areas and deserts, and due to these adaptations, growing them is very easy. All they require is the right amount of light, water, and well-drained soils.

What are mycorrhizal fungi? What does it do?

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A close-up photo of mycorrhizal fungi thriving on a decaying wood log in a forest. These fascinating organisms demonstrate the symbiotic relationship with plant roots, providing essential nutrients in exchange for carbohydrates.

So, what is Mycorrhizal Fungi? It’s a fungus that is naturally occurring but is also available on sale by Agri-tech companies. Unlike normal fungi which act as a predator on whichever substrate, Mycorrhizal fungi are actually very beneficial to plants. Thus, you can safely say that the relationship between fungi and plants is symbiotic.

Do Herbs Need Bright Sun to Grow?

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A photo showing various herbs, including basil, rosemary, and thyme, growing vibrantly in planter boxes. The herbs are flourishing under the bright sun, demonstrating their need for ample sunlight to thrive.

Most of the herbs require at least six hours of bright sunlight each day for proper growth. Else, they will get leggy or spindly, and you will leave you with long stems and few leaves. However, some herbs may grow well in partial or dappled sunlight as well.

12 Air Plants Easy to Take Care of

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A photo of beautiful hanging air plants that are easy to take care of.

Air plants have a character for being simple to care for, and they are provided you follow their instructions. The first rule of air plants is that they cannot survive only on air. They require a lot of water. They will drown if you feed them too much water.

Soil Selection: The Missing Piece to a Beautiful Garden

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Two individuals holding bags of garden soil and topsoil, comparing their differences.

The main difference between potting soil, topsoil, and garden soil is that it’s been specifically formulated for use in containers. Topsoil is usually processed to become finer to make it perfect for raised beds and seeds. Finally, garden soil is topsoil that has been enriched to make it optimal for plant growth.

How to Propagate Pilea Peperomioides Successfully

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A close-up image of Pilea Peperomioides plant with multiple healthy leaves. Learn how to successfully propagate Pilea Peperomioides.

New gardeners may get confused between the Pilea peperomioides and the Peperomia polybotrya. The former is our Chinese money plant, also known as the friendship plant. The Peperomia polybotrya is more succulent, drought-tolerant, and does not have perfectly round leaves like the pilea.

How to Water Houseplants While Away on Vacation

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A person holding a watering can, carefully watering their houseplants. They are demonstrating how to water houseplants while away on vacation.

Sometimes if you are a forgetful gardener, you might forget to have a watering schedule for your plants. This scenario remains worse if you are in the middle of packing and planning a holiday. Just like pets, your plants also rely on you for water, especially if they are indoors.

Why Do Plant Leaves Have Holes in Them?

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A close-up photo of leaves with holes in them, raising the question: "Why do plant leaves have holes in them?"

Plant leaves have holes because they consist of cells. The cell walls are composed of chitin, which is a polysaccharide. Chitin is what makes leaves so strong. When the cells break down, the chitin breaks down. When plant leaves have holes, it makes them very brittle and can cause damage to the plant’s health.

How To Grow Strawberries for a Great Harvest

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A close-up photograph of ripe strawberries growing inside a greenhouse. Learn how to grow strawberries for a great harvest.

Strawberries are easy to grow and need only four things: soil, sunshine, water, and fertilizer. However, it can take up to two years for the plant to produce enough fruit for you to eat. The best time for strawberry plants is between spring and when the temperature is cool.

Make Quality Compost. How Long Does It Take

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A wooden bin filled with a compost pile, showcasing the natural process of decomposing organic materials to create nutrient-rich soil. The composting process demonstrates how long it takes to make quality compost.

Compost can take anywhere from 1 to 12 months or more to decompose. Decomposition depends on the time of year the pile was constructed, carbon, nitrogen, and moisture are correct and pile maintenance will all affect how long a compost pile will take to be ready.

15 Shrubs to Grow in Shady Areas

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A healthy shrub displaying vibrant growth despite being in a shaded area. Ideal for shrubs to grow in shady areas.

Your garden can still be colorful, even if it’s primarily shady. Many lovely plants will thrive in your garden under a giant shade tree or flower beds, hanging baskets, and containers.

9 Best Mowers to Get Perfect Stripes

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A lawnmower creating perfect stripes on a lush green lawn, showcasing the best mowers to get perfect stripes.

The striped effect is because of differences in light reflection – a product of mowing techniques, grass angle and type, and the light source position. This is achieved by bending the grass blades in alternate directions.

Is Lawn Paint Bad for Your Grass? Know The Facts!

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A vibrant image of a painted lawn showcasing lush green grass covered in bright hues. The question "Is lawn paint bad for your grass?" arises.

Good quality lawn paint is made of non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients. And since it is natural pigment and not paint, it neither blocks sunlight nor seeps into the grass. So, it is safe for you, your grass, children, pets, and even the environment.

Soil Vs. Hydroponics? Which is BEST?

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A vibrant array of vegetables thriving in a hydroponics system, showcasing the advantages of soil vs hydroponics.

Hydroponics is superior for gardeners. Hydroponics offers less daily maintenance, tighter control over nutrition, elimination of almost all sources of disease, more precise control over the use of water. Year-long growth cycles. The only drawback may be the initial investment costs.

Can you grow tomatoes all year in a greenhouse?

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A lush greenhouse filled with tomato plants growing in neat rows. The plants are basking in the warm sunlight, surrounded by green foliage and ripening tomatoes. This photo showcases the possibility to grow tomatoes all year in a greenhouse.

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} Tomatoes grown in a greenhouse are protected from the elements, such as cold and rain, which can cause fungal infections. Growing tomatoes in a greenhouse all year demands attention and money. All conditions, including pollination, must be managed. This article will offer insight into effectively growing tomatoes in your greenhouse during the … Read more

How to increase mycorrhizal fungi in soil?

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A hand holding soil with mycorrhizal fungi, demonstrating how to increase soil health.

Tillage is damaging to mycorrhizal fungi as it breaks up the hyphae and mycelium, causing them to start over again. Having a diverse selection of plants can be instead looked into rather than moving the soil around, as this will increase the mycorrhizal fungi due to their microbial relationships.

How to make homemade mycorrhizal fungi

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A photo showing a container filled with mycorrhizal fungi enriched soil. Learn how to make it at home.

The first step to making homemade mycorrhizal fungi is to collect starter soil, preferably from an uncultivated area. Then, consider choosing a combination of grassy plant species which are likely to become infected with the mycorrhizal fungus and sow their seeds into the soil.

How to Clean a Greenhouse with Jeyes Fluid

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A container of Jeyes Fluid placed inside a greenhouse, ready for cleaning greenhouses with Jeyes Fluid.

You should clean your greenhouse because it can become dirty, reducing the amount of light that reaches your plants. A greenhouse should be cleaned before the next growing season or if you have issues of recurring plant diseases. The recommended disinfectant for greenhouses is Jeyes fluid.

Tilled Soil’s Secret to Better Plant Growth

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A gardener with a wide smile tills the soil in his garden, preparing it for better plant growth.

Soil particles need time to settle, and compaction occurs when soil particles pack together tightly, which leads to poor water drainage. So, waiting for at least 1-2 weeks after tilling before planting ensures that the soil has settled enough so it can be re-compacted and water to ensure optimal water drainage and root health.

Can You Use Compost Instead Of Potting Soil?

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A gardener wearing gloves shoveling rich compost into a vibrant red container, using compost instead of potting soil.

You can use compost instead of soil to boost your plant’s growth. You can also mix both to reduce waste. It also aids in increasing soil fertility by providing nutrients for plants. Using compost as soil reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which researches prove to cause environmental harm.

Ultimate Guide: Leaf Mulch for Weed Control!

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Leaf Mulch For Weed Control

Tired of battling stubborn weeds in your garden? Learn the secret weapon that professional gardeners swear by – leaf mulch for weed control. Find out how you can save time and effort while maintaining a pristine garden!

Do Fruit Trees Grow in Clay Soil? (It Depends)

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A vibrant image showcasing lush orange trees growing in a vast field. These fruitful trees thrive in clay soil, defying the odds with their flourishing presence.

Although most fruit trees will grow in clay soil. Stone or Pome fruit such as apple peach, cherry, pears, and nectarines have the best chances of thriving in clay soil. They require at least 3 feet of topsoil in order for good root growth. If clay soil is dense adjust it with gypsum and compost.

Why Cactus Soil Can Be Used To Grow Other Beautiful Plants

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A photo of a mix soil specially formulated for cactus growing. Can you use it to grow other plants?

The cactus soil is usually dry and mimics the environment of the cactus, that being dry and with inadequate nutrients. This soil type may work for other succulents and indoor plants that do not require water and moisture. Plants like these have shallow and fragile roots, so they do not need moist soil all the time. If their soil stays wet, it will affect the plant.

Compost bin size: How big do you need it?

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A compost bin in a backyard garden, filled with organic waste and surrounded by greenery.

The size of your compost bin should be two times the size of your compost pile. The minimum size of a compost bin should be 50 cubic feet. When building a compost bin, you must consider the amount of humus that you need and the waste you can provide at a time.

How To Stake a Raised Garden Bed in 11 Steps

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A photo of raised garden beds with a sturdy stake placed in one of them, ready for supporting plants. The raised garden bed stake ensures proper plant growth and stability.

Staking a raised garden bed involves driving stakes into the corners of the bed to keep the box secure.  The stakes support the raised garden bedsides and help keep the garden bed from slipping, which is important if you install it with an incline.

My aloe vera plant froze. Now what?

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Close-up image of a frozen aloe vera plant with icy crystals on its leaves, illustrating what to do when my aloe vera froze.

Unfortunately, freeze damage is a severe problem for aloe vera plants. Whether it can recover depends on the amount of time the plant has been exposed to freezing weather. If the plant turns entirely brown with a squishy consistency, it is probably damaged beyond repair. However, if you can see some surviving green leaves, it might be recoverable.

Prevent Leaf Mulch Blowing Away With These 5 Tips

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A pile of leaves being gathered into a mulch, held together to prevent leaf mulch from blowing away.

Leaf mulch is a great tool for gardeners. It keeps the soil at a more consistent temperature, but it also improves soil fertility. One of the issues with leaf mulch is that it can blow away in windy conditions. The best way to prevent this from occurring is by using stalks and sticks to hold down the leaf mulch.

A Step-by-Step Look at How Plants Grow

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A visual representation showcasing the remarkable process of how plants grow, progressing from a tiny seedling to a vibrant sprout.

From seed to sprout, sprout to vegetative, vegetative to budding, budding to flowering, and flowering to ripening, several stages are involved in plant growth. And to ensure their proper growth, they require adequate water, nutrients, air, water, light, temperature, space, and most importantly, time.

Do Seeds Need Light or Dark to Germinate?

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A close-up photo of a seed germination process, showcasing a sprouting seedling emerging from the soil. The seedling is bathed in soft, natural light.

Most seeds prefer to germinate in a wholly dark environment. However, some species, including some flowering plants, like at least some light to successfully incubate. It is, in fact, safe to say that different plant species require varying light conditions to activate favorable seed germination.

How Best To Utilize Manure In The Garden

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A pile of cow manure for fertilizer, showcasing how to utilize manure for the garden.

To maximize the benefits of using manure in your garden, make sure that you use mainly mature manure, as fresh manure may shock young plants. Compost the manure for at least six months to a year. Prep the garden by loosening the soil and removing debris before spreading the mature manure into soil at a 2-inch depth and loosely mix it with the soil.

The Best Month to START Your Garden & Why?

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A gardener in a straw hat carefully tending to a young plant in his garden, the best month to start your garden.

For most places, late March-early April can be a great time to start their garden. During this time, most crops can be grown, and the last frost date has passed, the soil temperature and the weather are favorable for starting a garden.

Is it Ok To Put Earthworms in Potted Plants?

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A close-up photograph of earthworms crawling on the surface of a container filled with potted plants.

Earthworms are effective in conditioning the soil and enhancing its drainage. However, it is not recommended to add the worms in the potting soil since their casting benefits the potted plants only if they have something to eat, lest they feed on the plant’s roots.

Best Houseplants for Beginners

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A photo showcasing a collection of vibrant and diverse houseplants, including succulents, ferns, and tropical foliage. These are the best houseplants for beginners, providing an array of colors, shapes, and textures to brighten any space.

Many plants make great houseplants for beginners. However, if you’re not sure about your abilities to grow houseplants, don’t despair! If you’re not sure of where to get started, this handy guide will walk you through all you need to know to start just a few or even a lot of plants inside.

How to Take Care of Your Aloe Vera Plant

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A vibrant, healthy aloe vera plant in a white pot, showcasing its thick, fleshy leaves and spiky edges. Discover how to take care of an aloe vera plant for optimal growth and well-being.

Aloe Vera prefers dry conditions with well-draining soil. Such as cactus mix, or add plenty of perlite to normal potting soil to achieve this. Aloe Vera requires a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. When watering, water deeply and saturate the soil, and do not water again until the soil has completely dried out. When feeding, select a feed high in phosphorus, something like 10-40-12.

How Do You Know When to Harvest Elephant Garlic?

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A photo of a freshly harvested elephant garlic bulb lying on a wooden surface.

Harvest garlic when most of the leaves on have turned yellowish-brown and begin to flop over. Going by the standard guidelines, elephant garlic is usually planted in early fall and ready to pick between May and July the following year. For fall-planted garlic, this time is enough to split into cloves. However, spring-planted elephant garlic can be harvested after 90 days but will most likely be a single bulb.

How to Save Leggy Tomato Seedlings? (Solved)

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A close-up photo of tomato seedlings growing in a seedling tray, showing their slender stems and small leaves. Save leggy tomato seedlings by providing proper support and adequate light.

Save leggy tomato seedlings by planting right up to the cotyledon leaves when potting on. Then identify what caused it. Common factors responsible are lack of light after germination, inconsistent soil moisture, overcrowding, and poor ventilation. Resolve these issues after potting on to ensure strong future growth.

How To Get Rid Of Aphids From Your Garden Plants.

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Close-up of aphids infesting a garden plant. Learn how to get rid of aphids in your garden.

Insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides have been linked to cancer, congenital disabilities, autism, brain damage, and depression, to name a few. If you plant organically, you will not want to treat insects with any type of chemical. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep aphids naturally away from plants. These are some of the best natural ways to get rid of aphids.

How To Grow Tomatoes – A Mind-Blowing Guide

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A close-up image of vibrant, ripe tomatoes growing in a garden, showcasing healthy and luscious fruits. Learn how to grow tomatoes and cultivate your own delicious harvest.

To grow tomatoes successfully, they require rich fertile, water-retentive soil. A bright and sheltered location with nighttime temperatures of 12ËšC – 24ËšC or 55ËšF to 75ËšF. Consider greenhouse growing in colder climates. Feed weekly with a high potash feed once flowering has started.

Reliable Vegetable Garden Cost According To You!

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A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables including tomatoes, peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and lettuce. Discover how much does a vegetable garden cost.

How much does a vegetable garden cost? It can vary greatly as no garden is identical, and also the resources required can vary on location, soil quality, preparation required, and what you wish to grow. But to answer this further, I asked 24 other gardeners to see what they spent when starting their vegetable gardens.

How to Improve Soil Fertility for Productivity?

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A person preparing fertile soil in a wheelbarrow, demonstrating how to improve soil fertility.

There are a number of ways to make sure your soil is fertile enough so you can experience great productivity. From adding organic materials like manure, compost, mulching. Adding a few necessary critters as that form part of soil life, as well as giving the soil adequate water and air.

What Causes Powdery Mildew? How to get rid of it?

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Close-up of hands holding a spray bottle, treating powdery mildew on a plant leaf. The hands are spraying a solution to combat the causes of powdery mildew.

What Causes Powdery Mildew? Powdery mildew is a fungus caused by micro-organisms. It is problematic when there are damp humid conditions. This fungal disease can affect a wide range of plants leaving behind powdery substances that block the leaves from photosynthesizing.

The Best Way to Plant Potatoes? Sprout Them!

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A gardener holding potato sprouts ready for planting, demonstrating the best way to plant potatoes.

Sprouting seed potatoes will cause them to be ready earlier in the season. It can also increase the size and weight of the harvest. But not all potatoes require to be sprouted. Early varieties, those with a short growing season are planted early and benefit from sprouting before putting in the soil. Later varieties don’t gain much growth due to the warm temperatures already present.

Is Epsom Salt Good For Plants?

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A photo of a wooden bowl filled with Epsom salt and a wooden spoon resting on top.

Is Epsom salt good for plants? Yes, Epsom salt is an ideal product to use for your plants. We all know Plants need Magnesium to be healthy and Epsom salt is made from Magnesium Sulfate and Sulfur. This is absorbed by the plant’s root system making them stronger and much more resistant to pests and diseases. It increases growth and produces larger vegetables and blooms.

Composting For Beginners The Complete Guide

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A wooden container filled with various ingredients for composting, including kitchen scraps, leaves, and garden waste. Composting for beginners.

Composting for beginners, The complete guide helps new gardeners who are terrified by the very word compost. But I am here to tell you that composting isn’t hard nor does it have to be complicated. After all, It is a natural process and all you’re really doing is helping to speed up the entire procedure.

12 Amazing Uses for Aloe Vera

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A photo showing aloe vera pieces with their inner gel exposed, demonstrating the different uses of aloe vera.

Alternative to Mouthwash
Keeping Garden Produce Fresh
Heartburn Relief
Natural Laxative
Natural Hair Conditioner
Lowering Blood Sugar Levels
Skin Care
Relieves Second-Degree Burn Wounds
Remedy for Foot Ulcers (Diabetes-Induced)
Relieves Throat Infections and Possibly Fights off Asthma
Remedy for Anal Fissures
Potential to Fight Off Breast Cancer

The Ultimate Guide to COVER CROPS

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A row of vibrant legumes used as plants for cover crops, providing soil enrichment and weed suppression.

Cover crops are fast-growing plants that are grown to cover bare earth. They are not intended to be harvested and are grown for the improvement of soil quality. They have properties to help you build soil structure. Improving soil quality, water retention and nutrient density for the food you grow. They can save you money on fertilizer. And save you time on weeding as these crops will smoother all weeds preventing their growth. They will also help manage pests in the garden.

Gardening Jobs To Do in January

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Gardening Jobs to Do in January on a snow-covered garden

{“statusCode”:401,”message”:”License key missing”} If you’re making resolutions, let adding small activation steps to dreams be one of them. Small wins can build up to success; they are more potent than un-actuated big dreams. I’m including myself in this pep-talk. So the action points in this piece are for me as much as for the Simplify … Read more

Gardening With Kids: Fun And Educational Activities

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Finding **fun and educational** activities might sometimes seem as tricky as finding a needle in a haystack. Believe me, I get it. Then, I discovered **gardening with kids**. It felt like hitting the jackpot. Not only is it incredibly fun, but it’s also rich with learning opportunities—from demystifying the life cycle of plants to fostering an appreciation for … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in October

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A person planting fall flowers in a garden.

As we enter fall, we’re preparing for winter crops, getting our garden beds nutritionally ready for the next season – yes, doing this early allows the soil to settle, added lime or sulfur to become effective, and compost to stabilize – ready for spring. Fall is a season to harvest what nature gives us in … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in September

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A tree with fall colors

We’re fast approaching when the Earth’s tilt sees the Sun crossing the Equator toward the South, where it will only start its return journey on the 23rd of December (the start of winter). The second annual equinox, on September 23rd, marks the start of the cold half of the year, beginning with autumn. Each month’s … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in August

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A gardener tending to blooming flowers and pruning bushes in an August garden.

It is mid-summer; for some, this means hot, dry days; for others, it means thunderstorms. For William Shakespeare, it is the season for weddings and fairies in his Midsummer Night’s Dream. I hope you are harvesting this month – and managing the heat. Below is a range of jobs you may have to consider. Please … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in July

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We’re in the heat of summer, a bit of a lull in planting operations, but harvesting and getting ready for autumn planting is a priority. This month, we will get a little downtime to take stock of our achievements and look at what we have to show for our efforts over the past six months. … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in June

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A bright display of butterflies, sun flowers and foliage depicting summer. Ideal for illustrating gardening jobs for June.

Summer, glorious summer. June the 21st is the longest day of the year, marking mid-summer. Summer brings extra light and warmth, providing ample opportunities to enhance the beauty of your garden. The increased heat and light encourage growth, with abundant flowers and a bountiful harvest from your fruit, vegetable, and garden patches. However, weeds are … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in May

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Tulips in bloom - one of the bulbs that can be planted in May

May is a crazy busy month. With days getting warmer and lengthening, the nighttime temperatures are still cold despite this. This month will see the last of the year’s frosts, allowing gardeners to start putting all those seedlings into the ground. Despite the continued sowing and planting of seedlings, extra work is needed in the … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in March

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Gardening jobs for March featuring a cluster of pink peach blossoms.

Finally, temperatures are starting to climb after a season of constant cold. In the gardening month-by-month calendar, March is a hectic month for sowing seeds, as the gardening season usually kicks off around now. Of course, if you are on the other side of the planet, the Southern Hemisphere, read this March gardening jobs-to-do page … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in February

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Gardening Jobs to Do in February: A landscape still covered in snow

Gardening Jobs To Do in February We’re only in our second month of the year and have already accomplished so much. Temperatures remain relatively unchanged, but at least we’re edging closer toward the last frost date, the key indicator for outdoor planting. For those living in regions where the last frost date is around late … Read more

Gardening Jobs To Do in January

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Gardening Jobs to Do in January on a snow-covered garden

Happy New Year! We have been given another year, one loaded with potential — a blank canvas to do great things in the garden. You’ll be glad to know that most of your January gardening jobs are indoors. It’s a season for dreams and visions and taking the first steps to make those a reality. … Read more

Gardening Jobs to Do in November

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Gardening Jobs November: Raking fallen leaves in a backyard garden to prepare for winter.

As the weather gets colder and the days become shorter, it may be tempting to let your garden rest until spring. However, there are still many tasks, such as planting vibrant winter flowers, preparing your garden for next year’s seasons, and completing a general cleanup that you will appreciate later. Also, consider the wildlife that … Read more

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