There’s no more iconic flowering tree than a cherry blossom tree. Many people come from all over the world to see Japan’s famous cherry trees in bloom every spring. The flowers are called sakura in Japanese. Their flowers are pretty, smell nice, and are truly magical when the petals start to fall off in fluffy … Read more
Sowing: People who live in places with short growing seasons might want to start Waltham Butternut squash seeds inside a month before the last frost date. Since squashes do not take well to transplanting, peat pots are the best option. Plant two seeds per pot, later clipping off the weaker seedling. Before you plant the … Read more
Sounds kind of yucky almost. On the other hand, potato water is pretty cool! You might be surprised to learn how useful and flexible it is. Potato water can be used instead of thickener, added to many foods to make them taste better, or even used in the garden to make the soil more fertile. … Read more
You can improve the health and look of your lawn by scarifying or dethatching, but it’s important to know the difference between the two so you don’t do more harm than good. Both of them basically clean up the lawn, but there are some important design and performance differences that can change how it looks … Read more
There are several advantages to growing potatoes in containers rather than in the ground. Container gardening saves room in small gardens, makes it easier to manage the plants’ growth, and keeps animals (like voles) that like to eat plants away. Growing potatoes in pots only has one real downside: you have to be more careful … Read more
Clematis plants, including climbing vines and spreading varieties, feature large, colorful flowers. Growing them is fairly easy, but pruning clematis tends to instill fear in some gardeners. This fear is unwarranted, as pruning simply comes down to when your clematis blooms. Like many large-flowered garden species, clematis vines are usually pruned to encourage new growth … Read more
Because more people are living in cities with less space, smaller plant varieties have become more popular in recent years. Shrubs are an important part of any landscape because they add color, texture, and structure to beds, borders, and foundation plantings. Small shrubs that flower can add a welcome splash of color almost all year, … Read more
Clay soils bring many gardeners out in a cold sweat. They have a reputation as back-breaking and impossible to work with. But the truth is that it can be truly brilliant in a garden. They keep a lot of water and are full of nutrients, which are two things plants need to grow well. In … Read more
Having the right soil is crucial for growing vibrant healthy aquatic plants in ponds and water features. Ordinary garden soil or potting mix will simply float away or turn to mush underwater. Aquatic plants need a soil that will stay put retain moisture, and provide nutrients. With the right ingredients, it’s easy to make custom … Read more
Pest infestations can quickly take over a home. Ants marching in lines across countertops, cockroaches skittering behind appliances, spiders dangling from ceilings – it’s enough to make your skin crawl. Harsh chemical pesticides may eliminate these unwelcome critters but many homeowners are understandably wary of using such toxic products indoors. This is where Stem bug … Read more