When designing a flower garden, color maybe the single most important consideration, but need not be the only one. Bedding or herbaceous plants have form, size, and shape. Their leaves also possess a definite, visual texture. An excellent way of achieving a satisfying and harmonious composition in the flowerbed is to group together plants whose leaves are finely cut, serrated, or toothed. By so doing, the variety that is attained by contrasting colors is balanced by the unity achieved by the common leaf texture.
Examples of such bedding plants to name a few, would include, Achillea, (Yarrow) Brachycome, Bidens, Felicia, and Chrysanthemum frutescens. While all the above belong to the same botanical family, (Asteraceae) plants belonging to other families can also be found to possess similar leaf shapes. Verbena and Linum, (Flax) are cases that spring to mind.
Such plants, combine beautifully with many herb species such as Thyme, Artemisia and Rosemary, as well as with flowering plants whose leaves are not finely-cut, but nonetheless, narrow and delicate. Examples are some carnations, (Dianthus) Armeria, and small, grass, or grass-like plants like Festuca and Liriope. If you think in terms of shapes and textures, you'll get far better results than by focusing on color alone.
Thought should also be given as to how the flowering plants in the bed associate with the other plant-types in the garden, such as the ground covers, shrubs, and trees. An incredible sense of unity arises when these "speak the same language" both with each other and with the plants in the flowerbed.
For instance, ground covers can form a transition area between the lawn, and the herbaceous border. When choosing a ground cover, why not use a fine-textured species like Myoporum parvifolium. Similarly, shrubs with feathery leaves like some species of Melaleuca, Calliandra or coniferous shrubs like Juniper, accentuate and strengthen the design motif. A group of ornamental grasses, especially when they sport tall blooms, would be another example of a subtle association between the flowerbed and a different section of the garden.
The connection does not have to stop there. A criterion for choosing the trees in the garden, albeit not the only one, can definitely be their leaf texture. Trees that have very large, course leaves, are liable to seem incongruous with the fine textures of the rest of the garden plants. While on the other hand, feathery-leaved trees like Albizzia julibrissen, or Gleditsia triacanthos, would associate and combine appropriately with them.
Fragrant Plants - Four Outstanding Choices For Your Garden
Labels:
plants
By Susan Schlenger
Fragrant plants can be wonderful in the garden...what is a garden with out at least one?
What could be nicer than sitting on your patio, meandering along your front walk or walking through your rear yard and all of a sudden getting a whiff of a beautiful fragrance?
When adding fragrant plants, be sure to place them in areas where they can be appreciated.
Here are four fragrant plants that I would highly recommend:
Lilacs
Lilacs will bloom in April or May depending on what area of the country you live. They come in many different colors, but generally whites, pinks and purples.
Most are rather tall, but some, like 'Miss Kim' are of a shorter stature. Here is a tip on keeping them blooming. Cut out one third of the stems every year.
Lilacs in the landscape can be used wherever some height is desired. For example, perhaps you have a bed of low plants and you just need one that is taller. Sometimes even three Lilacs together can be very showy. Their fragrance is outstanding. Lilacs can even be used as a hedge for property screening, although they will lose their leaves in the winter. A row of Lilacs in bloom is breathtaking.
Roses
There are so many types of Roses, yet not all of them are fragrant. Most of the newer shrub varieties have no fragrance, yet they themselves do have wonderful qualities. Many of them are disease and insect resistant. I think everyone will agree that this is a great asset! What is interesting about Roses is that there are different fragrances.
You can use low Roses in your garden, such as those that are two to three feet tall. There are many taller types. In addition Roses that are vines can be used in interesting ways. Think of the positioning of them so that you can enjoy them and the wonderful fragrances the most. Consider using them on a pergola or trellis near or at your patio.
Lavender
Lavender is a perennial which has been used through the years for such things as sachets. It has a lovely fragrance and the plant itself is charming. One of my favorite varieties is Lavender 'Hidcote". Lavender happens to look very nice in front of Roses. In this design you would get to enjoy the fragrance of both!
Koreanspice Viburnum (Carlesii Viburnum)
This is a shrub that produces very fragrant flowers. It is available as a large shrub, but there is a compact version also. It blooms in early Spring. The plant itself is lovely, as is the fragrance of the flowers.
There are other fragrant plants available. However, any of the above will be sure to provide outstanding results.
Fragrant plants can be wonderful in the garden...what is a garden with out at least one?
What could be nicer than sitting on your patio, meandering along your front walk or walking through your rear yard and all of a sudden getting a whiff of a beautiful fragrance?
When adding fragrant plants, be sure to place them in areas where they can be appreciated.
Here are four fragrant plants that I would highly recommend:
Lilacs
Lilacs will bloom in April or May depending on what area of the country you live. They come in many different colors, but generally whites, pinks and purples.
Most are rather tall, but some, like 'Miss Kim' are of a shorter stature. Here is a tip on keeping them blooming. Cut out one third of the stems every year.
Lilacs in the landscape can be used wherever some height is desired. For example, perhaps you have a bed of low plants and you just need one that is taller. Sometimes even three Lilacs together can be very showy. Their fragrance is outstanding. Lilacs can even be used as a hedge for property screening, although they will lose their leaves in the winter. A row of Lilacs in bloom is breathtaking.
Roses
There are so many types of Roses, yet not all of them are fragrant. Most of the newer shrub varieties have no fragrance, yet they themselves do have wonderful qualities. Many of them are disease and insect resistant. I think everyone will agree that this is a great asset! What is interesting about Roses is that there are different fragrances.
You can use low Roses in your garden, such as those that are two to three feet tall. There are many taller types. In addition Roses that are vines can be used in interesting ways. Think of the positioning of them so that you can enjoy them and the wonderful fragrances the most. Consider using them on a pergola or trellis near or at your patio.
Lavender
Lavender is a perennial which has been used through the years for such things as sachets. It has a lovely fragrance and the plant itself is charming. One of my favorite varieties is Lavender 'Hidcote". Lavender happens to look very nice in front of Roses. In this design you would get to enjoy the fragrance of both!
Koreanspice Viburnum (Carlesii Viburnum)
This is a shrub that produces very fragrant flowers. It is available as a large shrub, but there is a compact version also. It blooms in early Spring. The plant itself is lovely, as is the fragrance of the flowers.
There are other fragrant plants available. However, any of the above will be sure to provide outstanding results.
Plant Stands For the Home and Garden
Labels:
plants stand
What better way to show off your green thumb, or even a few faux flowers and plants if your thumbs aren't quite the greenest, than decorative plant stands for both the indoors and out? And, if you live in an area with a quickly changing climate or one with harsh temperatures during the winter months, plant stands allow you to easily move the delicate greenery indoors when needed, or move to in front of the window for a bit of sunshine.
Be prepared to have plenty to choose from as plant stands can range from the small and unassuming to larger, more attention-grabbing pieces with multiple levels and intricate designs. Consider your personal taste, the specific space you plan on using the stands in, as well as the types of plants or flowers you plan on using with them before browsing through the numerous styles you'll find available.
Some of the many materials used to create plant stands include wicker, glass, wrought iron, wood, stone, marble and plastics, ensuring that there's both a color and a texture suitable for just about anyone's tastes or existing décor. Just a few of the shapes and sizes of plant stands you'll see are round, square, oval, triangular, octagonal, and rectangular.
Buying Plant Stands for the Outdoors
Besides simply providing a nice place to display plants and flowers, stands keep the plants up off of the ground, away from hungry rabbits and their friends, and they also allow for much better air circulation. If you have a smaller deck or balcony, let plant stands allow you to enjoy some of nature's most beautiful creations even if you don't have room for a full garden.
For using in the out of doors, be sure the plant stands you choose will be able to withstand the change in temperature as well as regular exposure to the elements, always following the manufacturer or seller's guidelines for the best results.
When trying to find the right plant stands for your home, deck, porch, or patio, first consider the amount of floor space you have available, and then think of the type of plants you'd like to grow or have on display. Too many stands scattered about may cause your space to look cluttered, but if you do use more than one in the same area, make sure they're either identical, or are of varying heights to add interest. Also be certain that you're using a plant stand that's large enough to accommodate the container you're using without danger of tipping over or becoming unsteady.
Consider plant stands to be yet another piece of furniture to enjoy and add beauty to your home's décor. Regardless of your style, there's a plant stand for you and both your indoor and outdoor living spaces. Also, remember that you really aren't limited to using plant stands for plant life, despite their name, as many are simply gorgeous pieces of finely crafted furniture that can be used to display treasured heirlooms, or anything else you want to be noticed and appreciated.
Be prepared to have plenty to choose from as plant stands can range from the small and unassuming to larger, more attention-grabbing pieces with multiple levels and intricate designs. Consider your personal taste, the specific space you plan on using the stands in, as well as the types of plants or flowers you plan on using with them before browsing through the numerous styles you'll find available.
Some of the many materials used to create plant stands include wicker, glass, wrought iron, wood, stone, marble and plastics, ensuring that there's both a color and a texture suitable for just about anyone's tastes or existing décor. Just a few of the shapes and sizes of plant stands you'll see are round, square, oval, triangular, octagonal, and rectangular.
Buying Plant Stands for the Outdoors
Besides simply providing a nice place to display plants and flowers, stands keep the plants up off of the ground, away from hungry rabbits and their friends, and they also allow for much better air circulation. If you have a smaller deck or balcony, let plant stands allow you to enjoy some of nature's most beautiful creations even if you don't have room for a full garden.
For using in the out of doors, be sure the plant stands you choose will be able to withstand the change in temperature as well as regular exposure to the elements, always following the manufacturer or seller's guidelines for the best results.
When trying to find the right plant stands for your home, deck, porch, or patio, first consider the amount of floor space you have available, and then think of the type of plants you'd like to grow or have on display. Too many stands scattered about may cause your space to look cluttered, but if you do use more than one in the same area, make sure they're either identical, or are of varying heights to add interest. Also be certain that you're using a plant stand that's large enough to accommodate the container you're using without danger of tipping over or becoming unsteady.
Consider plant stands to be yet another piece of furniture to enjoy and add beauty to your home's décor. Regardless of your style, there's a plant stand for you and both your indoor and outdoor living spaces. Also, remember that you really aren't limited to using plant stands for plant life, despite their name, as many are simply gorgeous pieces of finely crafted furniture that can be used to display treasured heirlooms, or anything else you want to be noticed and appreciated.
15 Tips For Making A Container Water Garden
Labels:
container,
wter garden
By Lee Dobbins
Potted plants, they’re common. But when container water gardens are mentioned, chances are, not too many people will be able to answer what it is. Do you know what they are for? No? You’ll know in a minute.
Before, most people who would want to enjoy the beauty of water garden plants would need to set up a pond in their homes. Today, that is just an alternative. Container water gardens are for water plants as pots are for flowering plants.
1. Just like planting the usual garden plants, water plants such as water hyacinth or water lettuce should be packed with clay while submerged in water. 2-3 potted plants together with some plants with broad leaves would be ‘attractive’ enough.
2. Container water gardens should be kept in places with a high distribution of sunlight (at least 6 hours in a day) and ample supply of water. The containers should be refilled as soon as some of the original content has evaporated. During the afternoon, though, a bit of protection is required for your containers.
3. You must never worry about mosquitoes that might make a lair out of your ‘creation’. The water in the container would not become stagnant because of the plants in it. In rare cases where mosquito larvae do develop, take them off immediately and put in fresh water right away.
4. There is no need to go to certain shops just to start your own container water garden. Any type of container that could hold ample amounts of water would do to jumpstart a cute little garden. A small container that can hold a gallon of water (think in terms of old bath tubs!) can hold just one type of water plant. So, you can do the math. The more plants or bigger plants you use, the larger your container should be.
5. To save space, shallow containers could be used for floating plants. If you are opting to add fishes or a water pump to your container, then at least 12 inches is needed to submerge all these.
6. When you are still under the process of selecting the plants for your future water garden, be sure to consider the size of the plants and the available space that you have. For spacious places, bigger plants are required. It would be awful to find a small container in a large space.
7. Anacharis help keep the water clear so be sure to add about 2-3 bunches in 10-15 gallons of water.
8. The great thing about container water gardens, aside from beautifying porches or decks, is that it is emotionally rewarding. This type of garden is easy to maintain since one only needs to trim and fertilize the plants and just replace the water that has evaporated.
9. Remember this, and remember it well! Be sure to take your containers inside your home when the winter season begins. You wouldn’t want your water plants to freeze, would you?
10. Be sure of where you want the container to be permanently placed. Remember, water is quite heavy and once it is inside the containers together with your water plants, having to move them from one place to another could be taxing.
11. If you are bent on having a pond anytime soon, then container water gardening is a small-scale counterpart of your future pond. You could start practicing in keeping a larger garden by keeping the smaller one first.
12. Other possible containers that can be used which are easily produced are whiskey barrels, kiddie pools or even horse watering troughs. Just a little imagination and these old items can be turned into something elegant.
13. Place bricks underneath your plants to adjust their height.
14. It is highly advised to use black or any dark colored containers as they discourage the growth of algae and they give the impression of depth.
15. Around 50-60 percent of the water surface should be covered with your chosen water plants. And make sure to let the water stand for about 1-2 days before putting the plants so that any trace of chlorine has already settled by then.
These are just a handful of tips in starting a container water garden. With less effort but boundless rewards, this is the perfect new endeavor for anyone.
Potted plants, they’re common. But when container water gardens are mentioned, chances are, not too many people will be able to answer what it is. Do you know what they are for? No? You’ll know in a minute.
Before, most people who would want to enjoy the beauty of water garden plants would need to set up a pond in their homes. Today, that is just an alternative. Container water gardens are for water plants as pots are for flowering plants.
1. Just like planting the usual garden plants, water plants such as water hyacinth or water lettuce should be packed with clay while submerged in water. 2-3 potted plants together with some plants with broad leaves would be ‘attractive’ enough.
2. Container water gardens should be kept in places with a high distribution of sunlight (at least 6 hours in a day) and ample supply of water. The containers should be refilled as soon as some of the original content has evaporated. During the afternoon, though, a bit of protection is required for your containers.
3. You must never worry about mosquitoes that might make a lair out of your ‘creation’. The water in the container would not become stagnant because of the plants in it. In rare cases where mosquito larvae do develop, take them off immediately and put in fresh water right away.
4. There is no need to go to certain shops just to start your own container water garden. Any type of container that could hold ample amounts of water would do to jumpstart a cute little garden. A small container that can hold a gallon of water (think in terms of old bath tubs!) can hold just one type of water plant. So, you can do the math. The more plants or bigger plants you use, the larger your container should be.
5. To save space, shallow containers could be used for floating plants. If you are opting to add fishes or a water pump to your container, then at least 12 inches is needed to submerge all these.
6. When you are still under the process of selecting the plants for your future water garden, be sure to consider the size of the plants and the available space that you have. For spacious places, bigger plants are required. It would be awful to find a small container in a large space.
7. Anacharis help keep the water clear so be sure to add about 2-3 bunches in 10-15 gallons of water.
8. The great thing about container water gardens, aside from beautifying porches or decks, is that it is emotionally rewarding. This type of garden is easy to maintain since one only needs to trim and fertilize the plants and just replace the water that has evaporated.
9. Remember this, and remember it well! Be sure to take your containers inside your home when the winter season begins. You wouldn’t want your water plants to freeze, would you?
10. Be sure of where you want the container to be permanently placed. Remember, water is quite heavy and once it is inside the containers together with your water plants, having to move them from one place to another could be taxing.
11. If you are bent on having a pond anytime soon, then container water gardening is a small-scale counterpart of your future pond. You could start practicing in keeping a larger garden by keeping the smaller one first.
12. Other possible containers that can be used which are easily produced are whiskey barrels, kiddie pools or even horse watering troughs. Just a little imagination and these old items can be turned into something elegant.
13. Place bricks underneath your plants to adjust their height.
14. It is highly advised to use black or any dark colored containers as they discourage the growth of algae and they give the impression of depth.
15. Around 50-60 percent of the water surface should be covered with your chosen water plants. And make sure to let the water stand for about 1-2 days before putting the plants so that any trace of chlorine has already settled by then.
These are just a handful of tips in starting a container water garden. With less effort but boundless rewards, this is the perfect new endeavor for anyone.
How to Plant A Garden
Labels:
planting
By Eudora DeWynter
Before you start planting a garden make sure you have well prepared the soil. By this I mean have you loosened the soil by hand or with a tiller to allow for the aeration? Have you softened your soil with fertilizers and new topsoil? Most gardens should be lightly tilled in the spring before planting to kill weeds and smooth the soil. Correctly tilling the soil will enhance the absorption of water. Remember also that nitrogen is an important critical nutrient to plant growth so give it time to settle into the soil. Too much nitrogen will make for more vines that fruit on plants such as tomatoes or potatoes. Once you have readied the soil, its time to begin planting.
Since you have had all winter to lay out your design and spring has nearly arrived, digging and planting are close at hand. Let's say that we are novice gardeners and are planting for the first time, have a relatively large space and don't know a petunia from a begonia, or an annual from a perennial. First thing an annual (you must plant every year, but they bloom almost all summer) and a perennial (comes back year after year, but has a shorter booming span). Then pick your plants, and try and pick plants that are well suited to your climate and soil region. Know how much sunlight you will be getting in the spot that you have picked out. Annuals such as marigolds, zinnias and impatiens are fairly easy to grow.
If you live in a region where late frost is common, don't plant anything until this danger has passed. A simple solution is to start your seedling plants indoors from seed using containers or flats that are designed for indoor planting and the use of a sunny windowsill or an artificial growing light will work wonders. Always make sure your seedlings are kept moist but not wet, never allowing them to dry out. Water every other day or so while they are small then cut back as they grow bigger. If you start with seeds indoors simply follow the packet instructions and when the weather is right transplant outside to fresh air and sunshine.
After plants have been transplanted outside continue to water every other day and add mulch around them (when they are large enough) this will cut down on weeds and hold in the moisture from watering. Keep the weeds pulled before they get to big (by hand is best) and if you fertilize with a liquid, fertilize every other month and if with a dry fertilizer use again about half way through the growing season. Always if possible water in the morning when there is less evaporation from the heat of the day. Below is a list of some of my spring, summer and fall favorites.
Snapdragons - Beautiful array of colors from early summer until late fall
Daylilies - wide varieties, blooms only last a few days but hybrids bloom all summer
Marigolds- easy to grow and come in a variety of shades, bloom summer through fall
Impatiens- tiny cute flowering plant, but doesn't like very hot weather
Pansies- beautiful in all sorts of colors, grows better in cooler weather, velvet feel with black centers
Rose Moss- does well in hot climates, an array of colors and an excellent ground cover
Begonias- beautiful, but sensitive, not heat tolerant
Forsythia- beautiful flowering yellow bush that lets you know that spring has arrived
Petunia - an array of colors, heat tolerant and easy to grow, just right for a novice
Nicotiana - Multiplies and comes back years after year, has a smell that will attract Hummingbirds for miles white, yellow or purple
Gladiola - a garden favorite in mid and late summer
Crape Myrtle - beautiful pink flowering bush which is a late spring early summer favorite
The pride of my own garden;
Bougainvilleas, - climbing woody ornamental plant with red, purple or pink leaves and tiny white flowers
Camellias - glossy evergreen leaves with rose shaped flowers
Rose - every color, every smell, the very sight is sheer joy
Before you start planting a garden make sure you have well prepared the soil. By this I mean have you loosened the soil by hand or with a tiller to allow for the aeration? Have you softened your soil with fertilizers and new topsoil? Most gardens should be lightly tilled in the spring before planting to kill weeds and smooth the soil. Correctly tilling the soil will enhance the absorption of water. Remember also that nitrogen is an important critical nutrient to plant growth so give it time to settle into the soil. Too much nitrogen will make for more vines that fruit on plants such as tomatoes or potatoes. Once you have readied the soil, its time to begin planting.
Since you have had all winter to lay out your design and spring has nearly arrived, digging and planting are close at hand. Let's say that we are novice gardeners and are planting for the first time, have a relatively large space and don't know a petunia from a begonia, or an annual from a perennial. First thing an annual (you must plant every year, but they bloom almost all summer) and a perennial (comes back year after year, but has a shorter booming span). Then pick your plants, and try and pick plants that are well suited to your climate and soil region. Know how much sunlight you will be getting in the spot that you have picked out. Annuals such as marigolds, zinnias and impatiens are fairly easy to grow.
If you live in a region where late frost is common, don't plant anything until this danger has passed. A simple solution is to start your seedling plants indoors from seed using containers or flats that are designed for indoor planting and the use of a sunny windowsill or an artificial growing light will work wonders. Always make sure your seedlings are kept moist but not wet, never allowing them to dry out. Water every other day or so while they are small then cut back as they grow bigger. If you start with seeds indoors simply follow the packet instructions and when the weather is right transplant outside to fresh air and sunshine.
After plants have been transplanted outside continue to water every other day and add mulch around them (when they are large enough) this will cut down on weeds and hold in the moisture from watering. Keep the weeds pulled before they get to big (by hand is best) and if you fertilize with a liquid, fertilize every other month and if with a dry fertilizer use again about half way through the growing season. Always if possible water in the morning when there is less evaporation from the heat of the day. Below is a list of some of my spring, summer and fall favorites.
Snapdragons - Beautiful array of colors from early summer until late fall
Daylilies - wide varieties, blooms only last a few days but hybrids bloom all summer
Marigolds- easy to grow and come in a variety of shades, bloom summer through fall
Impatiens- tiny cute flowering plant, but doesn't like very hot weather
Pansies- beautiful in all sorts of colors, grows better in cooler weather, velvet feel with black centers
Rose Moss- does well in hot climates, an array of colors and an excellent ground cover
Begonias- beautiful, but sensitive, not heat tolerant
Forsythia- beautiful flowering yellow bush that lets you know that spring has arrived
Petunia - an array of colors, heat tolerant and easy to grow, just right for a novice
Nicotiana - Multiplies and comes back years after year, has a smell that will attract Hummingbirds for miles white, yellow or purple
Gladiola - a garden favorite in mid and late summer
Crape Myrtle - beautiful pink flowering bush which is a late spring early summer favorite
The pride of my own garden;
Bougainvilleas, - climbing woody ornamental plant with red, purple or pink leaves and tiny white flowers
Camellias - glossy evergreen leaves with rose shaped flowers
Rose - every color, every smell, the very sight is sheer joy
Growing Large Tomatoes Isn't That Hard
Labels:
growing plants
By Lee Dobbins
My mom and grandparents always had good luck when growing large tomatoes. Late summer and early fall at our house brought us fresh, delectable tomatoes to eat. My mom would can these at home to use throughout the year, even though I didn't exactly relish eating them. Fresh tomatoes are one of my favorite foods, but I really don't cared for stewed tomatoes. There is nothing better tasting-than homegrown tomatoes, and growing tomatoes is quite easy, in fact almost anyone with a large planter can grow their own.
If you prefer, you can start growing good tomato plants early, inside the house, rather than using the starter plants that most people like. If you want to do it this way, you can, although this method is much harder and the starter plants that are available make the process much easier. Correctly grown tomatoes are not planted outdoors until they meet certain size requirements. It's easy to transplant them, but make sure that they have plenty of space between plants. When you plant your tomatoes, make sure to give each seedling extra room for growth, and to put it in a sunny area.
It's nice but not necessary to have a big garden for growing large tomatoes; a window box works just fine for that purpose. You won't be able to plant as many plants, but even 1 plant can produce a lot of tomatoes. Growing good tomatoes is not something that can be done on autopilot, however. As tomato plants grow bigger, stakes will be necessary to keep them upright. Your tomato plants will need something to grab onto and grow around, so put a stake, fence, or specialty tomato wire frame beside the plant for this purpose. This will keep fruit from touching the ground. This way, tomatoes stay up off the ground where they belong.
Only use a trustworthy fertilizer in your garden, since it will be largely responsible for the health of your plants and will aid in growing large tomatoes. Follow two gardening rules of thumb with your tomato plants and keep them well-watered and in a weed-free area. You don't have to wait to pick your tomatoes until they are bright red in color, although some certainly like to do it that way. You may pick tomatoes before they are fully red and bring them indoors to ripen. Instead of the refrigerator, choose a place that is cool and dry to store your tomatoes for the best taste. You can keep green tomatoes stored in paper bags, and that will extend your fresh tomato season. They will keep well for a few months like this, allowing you to remove them and place them on the windowsill to ripen long into the autumn season.
My mom and grandparents always had good luck when growing large tomatoes. Late summer and early fall at our house brought us fresh, delectable tomatoes to eat. My mom would can these at home to use throughout the year, even though I didn't exactly relish eating them. Fresh tomatoes are one of my favorite foods, but I really don't cared for stewed tomatoes. There is nothing better tasting-than homegrown tomatoes, and growing tomatoes is quite easy, in fact almost anyone with a large planter can grow their own.
If you prefer, you can start growing good tomato plants early, inside the house, rather than using the starter plants that most people like. If you want to do it this way, you can, although this method is much harder and the starter plants that are available make the process much easier. Correctly grown tomatoes are not planted outdoors until they meet certain size requirements. It's easy to transplant them, but make sure that they have plenty of space between plants. When you plant your tomatoes, make sure to give each seedling extra room for growth, and to put it in a sunny area.
It's nice but not necessary to have a big garden for growing large tomatoes; a window box works just fine for that purpose. You won't be able to plant as many plants, but even 1 plant can produce a lot of tomatoes. Growing good tomatoes is not something that can be done on autopilot, however. As tomato plants grow bigger, stakes will be necessary to keep them upright. Your tomato plants will need something to grab onto and grow around, so put a stake, fence, or specialty tomato wire frame beside the plant for this purpose. This will keep fruit from touching the ground. This way, tomatoes stay up off the ground where they belong.
Only use a trustworthy fertilizer in your garden, since it will be largely responsible for the health of your plants and will aid in growing large tomatoes. Follow two gardening rules of thumb with your tomato plants and keep them well-watered and in a weed-free area. You don't have to wait to pick your tomatoes until they are bright red in color, although some certainly like to do it that way. You may pick tomatoes before they are fully red and bring them indoors to ripen. Instead of the refrigerator, choose a place that is cool and dry to store your tomatoes for the best taste. You can keep green tomatoes stored in paper bags, and that will extend your fresh tomato season. They will keep well for a few months like this, allowing you to remove them and place them on the windowsill to ripen long into the autumn season.
Garden Plants That Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies
Labels:
hummingbirds
By Lee Dobbins
There is nothing more wonderful than relaxing in your guarded and watching the jeweled flight of humming birds and butterflies as they go about their business in your garden. But if you don't often see hummingbirds and butterflies in your garden, it's not because they don't like you, it's probably because they don't like your plants!
Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to certain types of plants because they drink the nectar from them. Therefore its chance to reason if you want to attract them to your garden and one of the types of plants that they like. Now this doesn't mean that you have to limit yourself to just a few types of plants because there are many different shrubs and flowers that hummingbirds and butterflies love.
when choosing flowers for your garden, you need to keep in mind the zone that you live in and whether you are planting it in a shady or sunny spot and by plant that will thrive under those conditions. The Red Columbine, for example, will attract hummingbirds and can be grown in zones 2 through 8. The vibrant red color of the plant will look beautiful in your garden as it blooms early in the season and will attract the birds just returning home.
If you want a tall a plant that you could stick at the back of the garden you might consider the Delphinium which grows in zones 2 to 9 and can reach up to 5 feet in height. This is a great flowering plant for any garden scheme as you can get it in a variety of colors.
If you want flocks of butterflies in the fall then you will want to plant a butterfly bush but beware these can grow very, very tall. These also attract hummingbirds and if you add a verbena bush alongside hanging fuchsia you'll have an area that is very attractive to these beautiful winged creatures.
Marigolds are a common plan but they do produce nectar that butterflies love in a rather inexpensive so you can feel free to fill up your garden with these colorful flowers. Sunflowers are fun to have in the fall and also attract butterflies plus the seeds from the sunflowers make great food for your garden birds.
One thing to consider when attracting butterflies to your garden is the type of butterfly that you want. Certain flowers attract certain types of butterfly's. The Rabbit Brush and Canada Thistle will attract monarch butterflies while the Geraniums and Lilacs will attract Swallowtails. Queen butterflies like daisies and the Gray Hairstreak plant is a good one to attract all different kinds of butterflies. Of course, you can't attract butterflies if they're not native to the area so you might want to research what types of butterflies are native to your area as well as which plants and native plants according.
In addition to planting flowers that hummingbirds and butterflies like, you might want to add a source of water which will be useful for all kinds of birds as well as butterflies. Getting a nice birdbath, or just put out water set out in dishes will provide for your little winged friends. Of course, you want to be sure that you provide a healthy environment for them too, so be sure that you clean out the birdbath or water dish frequently and also be careful when adding bug sprays or insecticides as some of these can be harmful to birds and butterflies.
There is nothing more wonderful than relaxing in your guarded and watching the jeweled flight of humming birds and butterflies as they go about their business in your garden. But if you don't often see hummingbirds and butterflies in your garden, it's not because they don't like you, it's probably because they don't like your plants!
Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to certain types of plants because they drink the nectar from them. Therefore its chance to reason if you want to attract them to your garden and one of the types of plants that they like. Now this doesn't mean that you have to limit yourself to just a few types of plants because there are many different shrubs and flowers that hummingbirds and butterflies love.
when choosing flowers for your garden, you need to keep in mind the zone that you live in and whether you are planting it in a shady or sunny spot and by plant that will thrive under those conditions. The Red Columbine, for example, will attract hummingbirds and can be grown in zones 2 through 8. The vibrant red color of the plant will look beautiful in your garden as it blooms early in the season and will attract the birds just returning home.
If you want a tall a plant that you could stick at the back of the garden you might consider the Delphinium which grows in zones 2 to 9 and can reach up to 5 feet in height. This is a great flowering plant for any garden scheme as you can get it in a variety of colors.
If you want flocks of butterflies in the fall then you will want to plant a butterfly bush but beware these can grow very, very tall. These also attract hummingbirds and if you add a verbena bush alongside hanging fuchsia you'll have an area that is very attractive to these beautiful winged creatures.
Marigolds are a common plan but they do produce nectar that butterflies love in a rather inexpensive so you can feel free to fill up your garden with these colorful flowers. Sunflowers are fun to have in the fall and also attract butterflies plus the seeds from the sunflowers make great food for your garden birds.
One thing to consider when attracting butterflies to your garden is the type of butterfly that you want. Certain flowers attract certain types of butterfly's. The Rabbit Brush and Canada Thistle will attract monarch butterflies while the Geraniums and Lilacs will attract Swallowtails. Queen butterflies like daisies and the Gray Hairstreak plant is a good one to attract all different kinds of butterflies. Of course, you can't attract butterflies if they're not native to the area so you might want to research what types of butterflies are native to your area as well as which plants and native plants according.
In addition to planting flowers that hummingbirds and butterflies like, you might want to add a source of water which will be useful for all kinds of birds as well as butterflies. Getting a nice birdbath, or just put out water set out in dishes will provide for your little winged friends. Of course, you want to be sure that you provide a healthy environment for them too, so be sure that you clean out the birdbath or water dish frequently and also be careful when adding bug sprays or insecticides as some of these can be harmful to birds and butterflies.
Basic Home Gardening Tips
By Lee Dobbins
Home gardening can be very rewarding and it really isn't that hard! Here's some tips for growing any kind of plant including flowers, herbs and vegetables that are sure to help you develop your green thumb.
There are 3 basic things that you need to know to succeed in home gardening and that is that plants need light, water and soil to survive. If any one of these 3 elements is not adequate, it will result in weak plants. Luckily, it is pretty easy to get enough of all for your plants and the plants themselves usually come with directions on what they need.
Light
In general, most plants need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. Some more and some less so be sure to read the tags that come with your plants for best results! Study your yard or garden area throughout the day to figure out how much sun it really gets and be sure to place your plants where they will have the best chance of thriving. You can buy plants that like full sun,. partial sun and shade so there are plants that will be happy in every type of yard or garden.
Water
One of the most important home gardening tips has to do with water. Plants need water to survive but too much of it is a bad thing! You want to be sure they get enough water so that the soil is not hard and dry, but you never want to have standing water around your plant. Plants in containers will need to be watered more than those in the ground and more watering is necessary in summer months. When watering try not to splash water on the leaves and petals of your plants as this can promote disease - a garden soaker hose is ideal for this.
Soil
Plants need nutrient which they typically get from the soil. Be sure to use a rich soil that is fortified with fertilizer appropriate for what you are planting. You want your soil to be a bit loose so the roots can easily spread and grow. Nutrients can also be delivered to plants through water which is what hydroponic gardening is based on. With hydropinics you grow plants in a water solution - no soil needed!
So, you see, home gardening is not that difficult - just start off slowly and you'll be growing lush, vibrant plants in not time!
Home gardening can be very rewarding and it really isn't that hard! Here's some tips for growing any kind of plant including flowers, herbs and vegetables that are sure to help you develop your green thumb.
There are 3 basic things that you need to know to succeed in home gardening and that is that plants need light, water and soil to survive. If any one of these 3 elements is not adequate, it will result in weak plants. Luckily, it is pretty easy to get enough of all for your plants and the plants themselves usually come with directions on what they need.
Light
In general, most plants need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. Some more and some less so be sure to read the tags that come with your plants for best results! Study your yard or garden area throughout the day to figure out how much sun it really gets and be sure to place your plants where they will have the best chance of thriving. You can buy plants that like full sun,. partial sun and shade so there are plants that will be happy in every type of yard or garden.
Water
One of the most important home gardening tips has to do with water. Plants need water to survive but too much of it is a bad thing! You want to be sure they get enough water so that the soil is not hard and dry, but you never want to have standing water around your plant. Plants in containers will need to be watered more than those in the ground and more watering is necessary in summer months. When watering try not to splash water on the leaves and petals of your plants as this can promote disease - a garden soaker hose is ideal for this.
Soil
Plants need nutrient which they typically get from the soil. Be sure to use a rich soil that is fortified with fertilizer appropriate for what you are planting. You want your soil to be a bit loose so the roots can easily spread and grow. Nutrients can also be delivered to plants through water which is what hydroponic gardening is based on. With hydropinics you grow plants in a water solution - no soil needed!
So, you see, home gardening is not that difficult - just start off slowly and you'll be growing lush, vibrant plants in not time!
Raw Bananas
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raw banana
Had you raw bananas and want to fast cooked? Take previous yeast put in the stem of bananas that already had a hole. The package bananas in plastic. Certainly in 1-2 days more this will be ripe.
Preventing from gulma
This is the cheap and effective method so that a land field in your garden was not overgrown grass or weeds. Place sheets of the second-hand newspaper until covered all the surface of the area that was meant, the pile till achieved the thickness 1/4 cm. Pour water on the heap of this paper to soft, then accumulated with straw.
This is more effective than covering the land with the sheet of black plastic.
This is more effective than covering the land with the sheet of black plastic.
The cleaner Garden Equipment
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tools
You certainly wanted all gardening equipment always to be treated, clean and durable. The method that was good for that was to provide the box of wood contained sand that was soaked second-hand oil (second-hand oil the car for example), near the yours toools shelf .Each time when you finished used equipment like the shovel, the hoe, the sickle, scissors, or knive, you should cleansing the implement of the previous waste stuck this equipment while friction in this basin of oil sand.
The equipment will be clean and shone again. After that the tools kept and was ready to be used again.
The equipment will be clean and shone again. After that the tools kept and was ready to be used again.
Keep your flower fresh
Labels:
flowers
Many methods of making our piece flower in the vase could keep fresh more lama. One of them was by adding distillation water of ginger in this flower vase. Voila, the freshness of this flower will be more durable.
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