Is Concrete Safe for Vegetable Gardens? Weighing the Pros and Cons Gardeners have long debated the safety and effectiveness of using concrete in vegetable gardens. Concrete offers durability and structural integrity but also raises concerns about its impact on soil and plants. When evaluating whether concrete is safe for vegetable gardens, there are several key … Read more
Wood chips can make an excellent mulch in the garden if used properly. Made from shredded tree trimmings and branches wood chip mulch has some clear benefits like weed suppression and moisture retention. However there are also a few potential downsides to consider. By learning when and how to use wood chips, you can maximize … Read more
As a gardener, you likely end up with a surplus of tomato plants at the end of each growing season. While some choose to throw them in the trash, composting tomato plants is a great way to recycle nutrients and improve your soil health. However, there are some important factors to consider before tossing old … Read more
Mushroom compost is a dream ingredient for gardeners This dark, rich, organic material is the perfect soil amendment to help plants thrive But mushroom compost can be expensive to purchase in bags from garden centers. Luckily, there are ways to source free mushroom compost right in your local community. This guide will share tips on … Read more
Blood meal is an organic fertilizer made from dried, ground animal blood usually from cattle. It’s high in nitrogen making it a useful addition to garden soil in the spring to boost plant growth. But some gardeners have concerns about whether the strong smell of blood meal might attract unwanted critters and pets to the … Read more
Is Compost Acidic or Alkaline? Understanding Compost pH Gardeners know that monitoring soil pH is crucial for healthy plants But what about the pH of compost? Is compost acidic or alkaline? The reality is that compost pH is dynamic and goes through changes during the composting process Understanding the factors that affect compost pH can … Read more
Water-soluble fertilizers provide rapid nourishment that dissolves quickly in water, making them ideal for container plants, seedlings, and vegetables that need frequent feedings. While you can find both synthetic and organic options, organic water-soluble fertilizers offer an environmentally-friendly way to give your plants an extra boost without harsh chemicals When selecting the best organic water-soluble … Read more
Magnesium (Mg) is an important element for plant growth, but Minnesota doesn’t put much emphasis on using it in fertilizer programs. This lack of attention is understandable for most of the state; most Minnesota soils have enough magnesium to meet crop needs when they are managed correctly. If Mg is limited in the diet, animals … Read more
If you like coffee and want to get rid of your used coffee grounds in an eco-friendly way, our detailed guide has what you need. We’ll give you expert tips and techniques for getting rid of coffee grounds, including options for reusable filters. Say goodbye to wasteful habits and hello to sustainable and environmentally-friendly coffee … Read more
Stone fruits are so-called because they have a pit/stone that acts as a protective shell for their seeds. It is common to throw these pits away after eating them; they are not meant to be eaten plain. But did you know that there are many clever ways to reuse them? For example, you can use … Read more