Robby 
There are several advantages to growing potatoes in containers rather than in the ground. Container gardening saves room in small gardens, makes it easier to manage the plants’ growth, and keeps animals (like voles) that like to eat plants away. Growing potatoes in pots only has one real downside: you have to be more careful … Read more
With their sculptural spikes of tiny red, pink or white flowers, red valerian plants, also known by their botanical name Centranthus, are highly desirable additions to gardens and landscapes These rugged, easy-care perennials have an old-fashioned cottage garden charm and attract scores of pollinators. If you are looking to add red valerians to your yard, … Read more
Growing strawberries can be difficult but rewarding. We love those tasty red (or white) berries, and you will too. You’ll want every tip you can get. Since most people grow their own food these days, you may be wondering what kind of mulch is best for growing strawberries. The answer to that is straw. Straw … Read more
Clematis plants, including climbing vines and spreading varieties, feature large, colorful flowers. Growing them is fairly easy, but pruning clematis tends to instill fear in some gardeners. This fear is unwarranted, as pruning simply comes down to when your clematis blooms. Like many large-flowered garden species, clematis vines are usually pruned to encourage new growth … Read more
The sunflower is the typical flower of late summer and fall. Late summer sunflowers have round, happy flowers that can’t be beat. But what if you didn’t plant them in the spring or early summer? Is it too late to enjoy them? It depends on where you live, but for many gardeners, planting sunflowers in … Read more
Because more people are living in cities with less space, smaller plant varieties have become more popular in recent years. Shrubs are an important part of any landscape because they add color, texture, and structure to beds, borders, and foundation plantings. Small shrubs that flower can add a welcome splash of color almost all year, … Read more
Clay soils bring many gardeners out in a cold sweat. They have a reputation as back-breaking and impossible to work with. But the truth is that it can be truly brilliant in a garden. They keep a lot of water and are full of nutrients, which are two things plants need to grow well. In … Read more
Having the right soil is crucial for growing vibrant healthy aquatic plants in ponds and water features. Ordinary garden soil or potting mix will simply float away or turn to mush underwater. Aquatic plants need a soil that will stay put retain moisture, and provide nutrients. With the right ingredients, it’s easy to make custom … Read more
You can get a lot of great wooden containers for cheap or even free. These can be anything from old soda crates to tool boxes. And they can be turned into a quaint DIY wooden container planter for use indoors or outside. Repurposing wooden containers into planters can make a rustic and organic design statement. … Read more
Pest infestations can quickly take over a home. Ants marching in lines across countertops, cockroaches skittering behind appliances, spiders dangling from ceilings – it’s enough to make your skin crawl. Harsh chemical pesticides may eliminate these unwelcome critters but many homeowners are understandably wary of using such toxic products indoors. This is where Stem bug … Read more