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

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

best fertilizer for bougainvillea in pots

Choosing the Perfect Fertilizer for Potted Bougainvilleas With their colorful bracts and vigorous growth, bougainvilleas make excellent container plants for patios and porches. To fuel prolific blooming, these heavy feeders rely on regular fertilization when grown in pots But with so many fertilizer options, how do you choose the right one? Follow these tips on … Read more

sticks for holding up plants

Supporting Plants With Sticks A Guide to Using Plant Stakes As both outdoor and indoor plants grow taller, their stems often require some extra support to remain upright. Using sticks or stakes is an easy and effective way to provide this assistance. With proper placement, plant stakes can keep top-heavy blooms standing tall and prevent … Read more