When spring makes an appearance, I become giddy. Not only does this signal an end to snow and freezing temperatures, but it harkens the awakening of the garden. Fruit trees display their blossoms, shrubs begin to leaf out, and perennial herbs begin to rise up from the soil, full of promise. But one plant in […]
Gardening
Trellising Hops in the Backyard Garden
One plant that is vital to the craft beer industry has made a successful transition from commercial fields to backyard gardens. It is the humble hop vine. Not only do they enhance the landscape with their distinctive appearance, but their sought after cones wind up in the kettles of home-brewers. Hop vines need plenty of […]
Death, Weeds, and True Confessions
Social media sites are packed with gorgeous photos of thriving, healthy plants. Blossoms are vibrant. Delicate fronds are graceful. Fruits and vegetables are blemish-free. Rows are surveyor-straight. There isn’t a single weed in sight. Everyone has a green thumb but you. You envy those photos and hang your head in shame. Your thoughts turn to […]
Garden Primer: What is Composting?
For many gardeners, compost is something they buy in a bag from the local nursery. They bought it because a friend, neighbor, or perhaps someone from their local gardening club said they use it. Comments ranged from, “Wow… my tomatoes have never been larger” to “The flowers bloomed like crazy” or perhaps, “I never garden […]
Spring Cleanup:What should I Do?
Early spring. It is full of hope and promise. Birds are returning from their winter homes. Snowstorms are subsiding. Daytime temperatures are warming. Greenhouses are filling with plants. Wishful thinking and daydreams are occupying gardener’s minds. But as gardeners, we know that one big task is just on the horizon. In fact, it is THE […]
5 Benefits of Making Your Own Seed Tape
One of the joys of springtime is planting seeds. We can’t wait to get our hands in the soil. We are buoyed by fresh air, sunshine, and the promise of our garden-to-be. Who wouldn’t be excited by that? However, as gardeners, we face one common frustration; how to properly plant tiny seed. Tiny seed can […]