Can You Grow Hollyhocks in Pots? A Complete Guide

Hollyhocks, with their tall spires of colorful blooms, are a classic cottage garden flower. But did you know you can also grow these beauties successfully in pots and containers? With the right care and preparation, container-grown hollyhocks can thrive and add stunning vertical interest to patios, balconies, and small spaces. Choosing the Right Hollyhock Varieties … Read more

Does Planting Potatoes Improve Soil?

As a gardener and farmer, I’m often asked if growing potatoes can actually benefit the soil. At first glance, potatoes may seem counterproductive for building soil health since they require extensive tillage and digging that disturbs the soil. However, with the right practices, potatoes can improve several aspects of soil quality over time. Traditional Potato … Read more

Bringing a Dying Staghorn Fern Back to Life: A Step-by-Step Guide

With their antler-like fronds and prehistoric appearance staghorn ferns are fascinating plants. However, their unique growth habits and specific needs can make them challenging to care for. If your staghorn fern is struggling don’t give up hope! With the right techniques, you can nurse it back to health. Signs Your Staghorn Fern is in Trouble … Read more

homemade bug spray for succulents

Keep Your Succulents Pest-Free with This Simple Homemade Bug Spray Succulents are gorgeous, low-maintenance plants that add life to any space However, even these hardy plants can fall victim to sap-sucking insects and fungi that leave them looking less than photo-ready. Before resorting to harsh chemical pesticides, try this easy homemade bug spray recipe tailored … Read more

ideal soil temperature for tomato plants

The Perfect Soil Temperature for Tomato Plants to Thrive Growing juicy, flavorful tomatoes begins with paying close attention to soil temperature. The ideal soil temperature range varies for germinating seeds, transplanting seedlings, flowering, fruit set, and ripening. By optimizing temperatures throughout the growing season, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful tomato harvest. Why Soil Temperature … Read more

Are Dianthus Good for Pollinators? A Close Look at Their Benefits for Bees, Butterflies, and More

Dianthus also known as carnations or pinks are a genus of popular garden flowers beloved for their frilly, colorful blooms and sweet, clove-like scent. But beyond their ornamental qualities, an important question is – are dianthus good for pollinators? With pollinator populations in decline worldwide, understanding how different flowers can support bees, butterflies, and other … Read more

How to Stake a Peony Plant for Maximum Support

Peonies are prized for their sumptuous romantic blooms, but their heavy flower heads often flop over without proper support. Staking peonies can help keep these beauties standing tall and looking their best. Here are some key techniques for staking peony plants successfully. Why Should You Stake Peonies? Staking peonies provides several benefits: Prevents flopping blooms … Read more

best time of year to use root killer

Determining the Optimal Time to Apply Root Killer for Maximum Effectiveness Tree and shrub roots can wreak havoc on underground pipes and sewer systems. Using chemical root killers provides an effective solution, but timing is key for best results. This article will explore when you should apply root killer for ideal root control and drainage … Read more