With its bright unique blooms that attract pollinators by the dozen, it’s no wonder bee balm (Monarda spp.) is a favorite for many gardeners. However this hardy perennial’s ability to spread rapidly has some asking – is bee balm invasive? While not considered invasive everywhere, bee balm can certainly act aggressively and take over sections … Read more
Growing grass in a cup is an easy and engaging science experiment for kids of all ages. With just a few basic supplies, children can experience the excitement of planting seeds and nurturing grass growth indoors. This project teaches important concepts about plants, encourages observation skills, and provides days of green fun! Follow the steps … Read more
Cauliflower is a cool weather crop that requires precisely timed planting and harvesting for optimal flavor and texture. Learning to identify the perfect harvest window is key to getting tender, sweet cauliflower heads before it’s too late. While harvested too early, the curds will be small and underdeveloped. But waiting too long leads to overmature, … Read more
Dividing hostas is an easy way to propagate these popular shade-loving perennials While hostas can be divided in spring or fall, most gardeners prefer spring division. The key is timing it just right Follow this complete guide to learn when, how, and why to divide hostas in spring for optimal results. When to Divide Hostas … Read more
When blueberry season hits, it’s a race against time to harvest bushels of these tasty and nutrient-packed berries Whether you’re picking wild blueberries or cultivating your own high bush or rabbiteye varieties, following these tips will help you pick blueberries faster and more efficiently 1. Use Proper Harvesting Tools Having the right tools for the … Read more
As a gardener, watching your peppers fully ripen on the vine to reach their peak flavor and colors is one of the greatest joys. However, getting those peppers to properly ripen before the end of the growing season can be a challenge. Not to worry – there are several effective techniques you can use to … Read more
Braiding onions is an old-fashioned technique that allows you to beautifully display your homegrown onions while also maximizing their storage life. The increased airflow from braiding prevents rot and mold, and makes it easy to hang onions in your pantry or root cellar. Learning how to properly braid onions takes some practice, but will soon … Read more
Iceberg roses are beloved for their beautiful clusters of fragrant white or pink blooms that flower abundantly throughout the growing season. However, proper pruning is essential to keep iceberg roses healthy and flowering at their best. The right pruning methods will maximize blooms and maintain an attractive, shapely shrub. Pruning iceberg roses may seem intimidating, … Read more
Okra is a warm-weather vegetable that thrives in hot and humid climates. While it can be planted directly in the garden starting seeds indoors and transplanting seedlings often leads to earlier and higher yields. Determining the optimal timing for transplanting okra seedlings is key to getting a prolific harvest. Why Transplant Okra Okra can be … Read more
Carrot seeds are tiny but each one holds the potential for a bountiful crop. So how many carrots can you actually harvest from a single seed? As a home gardener understanding carrot seed germination and growth can help you optimize your harvest. In this guide, we’ll explore what happens from seed to harvest and provide … Read more