California poppies (Eschscholzia californica) are stunning wildflowers that paint the hillsides of California bright orange. Their satiny petals and delicate fringed centers make them a favorite in wildflower gardens. While poppies readily self-seed collecting the seeds to spread in new areas of your garden or to share with friends can extend their beauty. Harvesting poppy … Read more
With their colorful daisy-like blooms, asters are a quintessential flower of late summer and fall. Growing these beauties from seed is a thrifty way to add jewel-toned color to beds, borders and containers. Follow this complete guide to sowing, transplanting, and caring for asters grown from seed. Getting to Know Asters Astsers belong to the … Read more
The easiest and least expensive way to get lots of flowers all season with little work is to plant flower seeds directly in the ground. It’s incredible just how much you get from a tiny $3 pouch of seeds. And I believe it’s a great way for first-time gardeners or experienced gardeners who want to … Read more
Juicy, sweet strawberries fresh from your garden are one of summer’s simple pleasures in Alabama While strawberries thrive in the state’s warm climate, growing them does require some special considerations Follow these tips for a successful strawberry harvest in your own backyard. Choosing a Site Strawberries need full sun and well-drained soil to produce a … Read more
Fields left unattended often become overwhelmed with weeds. Taking over a weedy field and transforming it into a productive space can seem daunting. But with some diligence and the right techniques, clearing fields of weeds is very doable. In this article, we’ll explore efficient methods for removing weeds at the field scale. Follow these steps … Read more
Mint is a popular herb that many gardeners grow for its fragrant leaves and culinary uses. However, mint’s aggressive spreading habit can quickly turn this useful plant into a nuisance. So is mint invasive? The simple answer is yes – mint is considered an invasive plant in gardens and landscapes. In this article, we’ll look … Read more
Red chillies add spicy heat and vibrant color to dishes across multiple cuisines However, fresh chillies only last about a week when stored in the refrigerator For people who cook with chillies frequently or buy in bulk when prices are low, learning proper storage methods to extend the shelf life of fresh chillies is essential. … Read more
Amaryllis flowers (Hippeastrum spp. People love them because they bring big, bright color inside in the middle of winter, when not much else may be blooming. Commonly grown as houseplants, they are also hardy outdoors in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. When their blooms have died, well-tended bulbs can produce more flowers for … Read more
You might want to grow potatoes and tomatoes together as companion plants. Before you start a vegetable garden, you should make a list of what you want to grow and where you want to grow it. That’s because the plants you place side by side can influence each other’s growth, either positively or negatively. You … Read more
Planting an amaryllis bulb in a pot is easy. All you need is a bulb, potting mix, and a container with a drainage hole in the bottom. You will also need a saucer and maybe a coaster to keep furniture and window sills from getting scratched or stained by water. Amaryllis bulbs produce stunning blooms … Read more