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A striking climbing plant, velvet bean (Mucuna sempervirens) offers waxy, dark purple flowers with gold calyxes that dangle in racemes up to 14 inches long. Those clusters are followed by the 1- to 2-foot knobby, velvety, reddish-brown seed pods from which the plant derives its common name. Native to China, the velvet bean can grow trunks up to a foot in diameter and vines up to 80 feet long, so it is best displayed on a sturdy pergola. It is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12.
Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum spp.) is a perennial wildflower that tolerates shade and grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3a to 9b. Small, pale green to white flowers appear on the plant in the spring and are followed by blue berries. The plant is most frequently grown for its attractive foliage since the flowers and berries are small and, although attractive, not considered to be showy. Solomon’s seal is usually propagated by rhizome division because it can be difficult to do so by seed. Propagation by seed is possible, however, if you are patient and provide the two…
German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita, formerly Matricaria chamomilla) features thick clusters of daisy-like flowers, making it an attractive addition to a yard, patio or herb garden. Additionally, the flowers attract bees and butterflies and you can make the herb into soothing teas. German chamomile grows readily from seeds, which are widely available from suppliers if you don’t have access to an established plant from which to collect your own.
The long, spindly petals of the spider aster give this flower its common name. The spider aster is actually just one form of the common aster (Callistephus chinensis), a summer annual that grows well in most climates. Spider asters grow readily from seed started indoors approximately six weeks before the last expected spring frost. Planting the seeds inside provides the controlled conditions that ensure the asters germinate and become mature enough to flower by late summer.
Serviceberries are tall shrubs or small trees that bloom in early spring. The white flowers hang in clusters, and they are followed by small, reddish-purple berries. In most cases, you will have to harvest the berries when they ripen in summer to extract the seeds because the seeds aren’t readily available for purchase by home gardeners. You’ll need patience to grow serviceberries from seeds because it takes several months to prepare the seeds for planting, and germination may take several additional months.
Lonicera brownii, better known as scarlet trumpet honeysuckle, is an upright-standing vine that produces colorful clusters of tubular flowers. They grow to reach heights of 10 to 20 feet and are further distinguished by their rounded, waxy bluish-green leaves. If you live in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, consider growing Lonicera brownii from seed to add a little beauty to your lawn or garden.
Native to parts of Africa and India, the moringa, or Moringa oleifera, is a versatile tree that offers numerous medicinal and nutritional benefits. Also called horseradish tree or drumstick, almost all parts of the small tree or large shrub are edible. Although it tolerates light frost, the moringa tree flourishes in warmer, drier climates. The drought-tolerant, easy-care tree grows from seed. Because moringa does not transplant well, it’s best to plant the seed in its permanent location, where it should gradually develop into a healthy tree.
Grown throughout the world, millet is an annual summer grass and grain crop that is similar in appearance to the sorghum plant. Producers of millet often grow the grass for forage and wild bird feeding, although in some instances the grass also serves as a small-grain cereal used in recipes. Grown from seed, millet quickly germinates when planted in well-draining, warm soils throughout the U.S. This rapid growth trend continues as millet matures, usually reaching harvest stage within 45 to 60 days of planting.
Most gardeners grow tulips from bulbs, the thick storage organs that some plants create to store energy and protect themselves from heat or drought. Tulip bulbs are planted in the fall and bloom in the spring. You can also grow tulips from seeds, but it is much more difficult. Seeds take several years to produce flowers, and the tulips that grow from seeds may have a different color or size than you expected.
Hybrid delphiniums that are part of the Belladonna group (Delphinium x belladonna) are flowering perennials, hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 3 to 7. They bloom during the summer months; however, if you sow the seeds outdoors--which is typically done in the fall--expect your delphiniums to bloom the second year. To get a head start on your delphinium flowers, start them indoors in the fall and then transplant them outdoors after the last frost in the spring. They will then bloom the first summer.
Aquaponics blends aquarium and garden environments, combining aquacultural and hydroponic systems. In simple terms, these closed-loop mini ecosystems incorporate fish in the growing environment and produce plants without soil, creating a system in which plants feed off the nutrient-rich water produced by the fish. The soil-free nature of aquaponics makes growing seeds quite a bit different than the traditional gardening process -- generally, aquaponic gardeners start from seedlings rather than seeds. The process varies depending on the type of seed and your aquaponic setup.
Dill, or Anethum graveolens, are annual and biennial herbs that belong to the parsley family. This fragrant, feathery herb grows wild in some areas of the world but is also cultivated for culinary uses in home and commercial gardens. Dill is a popular ingredient in pickling and cream-based sauces. You can buy dill seedlings from gardening centers or grow your own plants from seed. For the tastiest results, it is recommended that dill is grown from seeds.
Lavatera is the genus name for a small group of flowering plants commonly known as "tree mallows." Although Lavateras possess a range of growth habits, all share similar flowers, which resemble those of hibiscus but with a purplish-pink coloration and a dark center. Seed propagation is the most reliable means of growing Lavatera plants at home, but the seeds must be sown indoors two months before the last frost so that the plants are well-established and strong before they are planted outside in spring.
Also known as Love-in-a-Mist, Nigella damascena is an annual that produces feathery foliage and abundant flowers in shades ranging from blue to pale pink or white. Nigella plants grow to about 24 inches in height. The flowers are lovely in the garden or for cutting, and they make excellent dried flowers. The interestingly shaped seed pods are also used in dried arrangements. Once established, nigella self-seeds easily, making replanting unnecessary. Nigella is a frost-tolerant, cool-weather annual that blooms best in spring and fall. Plant seeds every three or four weeks for a continuous display of flowers, or allow the plants…
Red Push pistache trees (Pistacia x "Red Push") are native to China. These trees reach 60 feet tall with a canopy spread of 25 to 35 feet wide. The tree's dark green leaflets turn bright red in the fall before dropping from the branches. Pistache trees are dioecious, which means there are male and female trees. Only the female tree produces the bright red fruit, which change to dark blue when ripe. Harvest the mature fruit when attempting to grow the Red Push pistache from seed. Seed taken from red fruit often fail to germinate. Expose the seed to cold,…
Golden clematis, or Clematis tangutica, makes a striking addition to any garden with its golden flowers and feathery seeds pods. Numerous cultivars of Clematis tangutica have been developed to improve the hardiness and flower characteristics of the species, including a showy, purple-trimmed variety called Helios. Clematis "Helios" grows well from seed and will mature to a height of 8 feet in just a few months, but the seeds must be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost to bloom successfully in their first year.
China aster is a member of the family Asteraceae and resembles the hardy asters in many ways. China asters, however, are annuals and frequently display double blooms. They are used in floral displays, as well as tender bedding plants in gardens. China asters have been selectively bred into a rainbow of colors, from white to red, yellow, purple and blue. They are also easy to grow and do well when started indoors in pots that can be planted.
Subalpine firs (Abies lasiocarpa Nutt.) grow below the highest parts of the Rocky Mountains. The subalpine fir grows up to 50 feet tall in its native habit with blue-green needles on horizontal tree limbs. The distinctively purple female cones retain their color until fertilized. The trees don't begin producing cones until they are over a century old and then they mast, producing copious amounts of cones, in alternating years. Masting allows some seeds to avoid consumption by squirrels and birds.
Growing your own cashew tree from a seed may be a lot less convenient than buying the nuts at a grocery store, but it's much more rewarding. Cashew trees will not only bear nuts, but they'll also provide cashew apples, which are rich in vitamin C. For a cashew tree to thrive, it needs to be in a tropical environment with an average daytime temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plant the tree correctly, it won't take much additional effort to get your cashew tree to produce a crop.
Birdsfoot trefoil is the common name for Lotus corniculatus, which is a perennial species of leguminous plant sometimes grown as an ornamental ground cover for its small, yellow flowers and light-green foliage. Although it resembles clover in the shape of its leaves, birdsfoot trefoil is unrelated and differs greatly in the appearance of its flowers. Like most leguminous plants, birdsfoot trefoil grows easily from seeds and will quickly establish itself. However, the seeds must be soaked prior to planting to prompt fast, reliable germination.
Using grass seed in an arts and crafts project is a great way to introduce younger children to the plant growth process while keeping it fun and interesting. One of the most common uses for grass is as hair for the head of a sculpture. Other projects might include creating a living egg shell centerpiece or even a miniature greenhouse.
Ficus plants require specific pollinators -- wasps -- to set seed. And not just any wasp either. Each species within the Ficus genus has an associated wasp species. Ficus lyrata, commonly known as fiddle-leaf fig, is native to tropical Africa and, although it flourishes outdoors in Hawaii and Florida, it is more commonly grown indoors, as a houseplant. If you are fortunate enough to get your hands on some lyrata seeds, be patient. They may take up to three months to germinate.
The carnivorous Sarracenia purpurea grows in swampy areas from Georgia to Canada. The plant has red pitcher-shaped flowers where it stores the enzymes it needs to digest the insects it traps. The species thrives in full sun in regions that have four well-defined seasons. One subspecies -- Sarracenia purpurea ssp. Venosa -- has adapted to a year-round moderate climate. Growing Sarracenia purpurea from seeds is time-consuming, but not complicated.
Although sedum plants grow well from seed, the seeds' germination rate is extremely low. Even if you do everything right, which isn't hard, you may end up with few plants. The good news is that if you get one strong plant, you can grow many others from root cuttings by simply laying the plant on the ground. It will sprout roots wherever the stem touches the ground and establish itself there.
Vinca minor grows approximately 6 inches tall, an ideal height for a ground cover. The glossy leaves create a dense mat. In spring and early summer, numerous purple flowers bloom against the green backdrop. In late summer and fall, Vinca minor continues to flower sporadically. Look for this plant under the common names creeping myrtle and periwinkle.
Growing lush green grass is a promising way to make your landscape more attractive. There are numerous methods of achieving a healthy lawn. Peat moss is one of the most commonly used substances for amending soil. Incorporate peat into the topsoil, along with needed fertilizer and phosphorus or potassium amendments. Peat moss helps improve the texture and moisture levels in soil. But it may not be a sufficient amendment if used alone; it is still important to test your topsoil and amend for any deficiencies prior to planting.
Most eucalyptus shrubs and trees are native to Australia and the South Pacific, and are hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11. These drought-tolerant plants prefer full sun and acidic, rich soil with no added fertilizer. Traditional herbalists use eucalyptus extracts for cold and cough remedies, and builders and homeowners value the tree's lumber and decorative dried branches. According to Floridata, the easiest propagation method is by seed, which is usually mixed with infertile seeds or "chaff."
Dracaena cinnabari is a native tree of the tropical island of Socotra and surrounding archipelago in the Indian Ocean. When looking at this tree, it resembles an upside-down umbrella. It is an evergreen, with dark red resin, called dragon’s blood. This tree can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet tall. The fruit starts out green, then turns black. Ripe berries are orange and often eaten by birds. The berries are small, containing one to three seeds. The Dracaena cinnabari is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 10 through 11. In areas below 10, it is grown as a…
Tangelos, a hybrid of mandarin orange and grapefruit, are oblong in shape and look like oranges. They are juicy with less pulp than regular oranges and can be eaten fresh off the tree or used in salads and cooked dishes. You can grow your own tangelo tree by saving the seeds from a fruit and planting them into pots. These trees are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 8 through 10. Gardeners living below Zone 8 can grow tangelos indoors.
Sago palm is one common name for Cycas revoluta, an ancient species of palm-like shrub native to the tropical region of southern Japan. The stiff, feathery fronds emerge from a central stalk and are joined in summer by tall, pine cone-like flower structures, which mature into a cluster of bright red berries in winter. The berries contain seeds that will germinate and grow new sago palms if planted in very warm, moist soil. However, the seeds must be aged for several weeks before sowing to soften the outer flesh and break their dormancy.
Sumac trees belong to the genus Rhus, which includes several hundred species of small trees and shrubs found around the world. Species such as smooth sumac (R. glabra) and staghorn sumac (R. typhina) are widely cultivated as ornamental trees for their pinnate leaves and showy berry clusters, which provide a brilliant display during the autumn months. All species of sumac grow true from seeds, but they require a brief soak in hot water followed by a chilling period to break their dormancy and prompt germination. This is easily accomplished and will not only hasten germination, but increase the overall viability…
Liriope muscari is the botanical name for lilyturf, a perennial species of grasslike plant grown as a ground cover for its spreading habit and dainty, pale-purple flower spikes. The flowers mature into short clusters of blackish berries in autumn, which contain an abundance of round, orange seeds that can be used to grow new Liriope muscari plants. Although the seeds sprout reliably when placed in warm soil, they must be soaked in warm water and cleaned of all their pulp beforehand to aid germination.
Bachelor's buttons originated in Europe and Asia, where they often cover entire fields with their delicate blue blooms. Introduced to the U.S. in the 1600s, these flowers became popular in flower gardens, partially due to their brilliant blue flowers -- one of the rarest of flower colors -- and partially due to their prolific growing habit and tendency to self seed. They possibly earned their name from the habit of men wearing them in the buttonholes of their suit jackets during Victorian times. Bachelor's buttons are also known as cornflowers in some regions of the country.
Commonly called calico flower, Aristolochia elegans is a species of flowering vine native to Brazil. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant both for its heart-shaped evergreen leaves and its unusual flowers, which possess a curving, tubular shape and a maroon coloration with intricate white markings. Aristolochia elegans will grow from seed year-round since it is a tropical species, but the seeds must be provided with warmth, very bright light, and moist soil.
Cotoneaster is the genus and common name for a large group of woody shrubs cultivated in gardens for their highly ornamental berries and dense growth habit. The preferred propagation means vary greatly between cotoneaster species, but all nonhybrid varieties of cotoneaster grow reliably from seeds. However, the seeds must be lightly processed and stored under cold conditions for several months before sowing in warm soil breaking their natural dormancy and prompting germination.
European pears (Pyrus communis), such as Comice, Bartlett, Bosc and D’Anjou, are the fruits typically sold in the produce department of grocery stores. These fruits are eaten fresh and used for canning or in recipes. A pear tree grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 to 7 and will grow from seeds collected from another ripe pear. The first requirement for growing a pear tree from a seed is stratification, or a chilling period.
Double impatiens refer to impatiens flowers with a double set of petals that form around the center of the bloom, instead of a single row of petals. These impatiens create a mass of color from spring until fall. Colors range from white and shades of pink to red and orange. Often grown in hanging baskets or crowded into window boxes, these plants are prized for both their colorful flowers and their shiny green foliage. Starting them from seed inside six to eight weeks before the last expected frost in your area ensures early blooming.
Alligator juniper, or Juniperus deppeana, occurs naturally in the mid-elevation woodlands of the southwestern United States and Mexico. The common name refers to the rough, deeply fissured bark found along the trunk, which resembles the tough, leathery hide of alligators. Many gardeners throughout the species' native range cultivate alligator juniper for its unusual bark and bluish-green foliage, which adds year-round interest to gardens. Seed propagation is the primary means of growing alligator junipers. The seeds, however, germinate very slowly and erratically, so it is best to start multiple seeds at once to increase the chances of successful germination.
Stokes' aster is the common name for Stokesia laevis, a perennial species of wildflower native to the southeastern United States. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant for its bluish-green foliage and frilly flowers, which come in shades of violet, white and pink. Stokes' aster plants grow well from seeds if the seeds are cold-stratified for six weeks before planting, and though they are slow to germinate, the plants mature and bloom in their first year.
Privet cultivars commonly grown in America include Ligustrum lucidum and Ligustrum vulgare. You may find seeds for sale online or in garden stores, but privet is usually sold in the form of seedlings or young plants. However, it is easy to collect privet seeds yourself. The seeds are in the berries that grow on the plant in late summer and fall. Pick the berries, leave them to dry, then break them up to extract the seeds. Privet is usually grown as a hedge that is kept to shape and size by regular trimming. It can grow as an individual tree,…
Fennel charms many gardeners with its usefulness as both an edible plant and as an ornamental flower. The large, showy flower clusters appear in summer atop 6-foot-tall stalks, which emerge from an overdeveloped, stem that is often eaten as a vegetable. Fennel will propagate in a variety of ways, but the easiest method for home gardeners is through seed growing. Since fennel does not transplant well, the best method for growing is to sow the seeds directly into the garden in spring. They will reach their full size within just a few months and be ready to harvest 70 to…
Dutchman's pipe is the common name for several species of flowering vines within the genus Aristolochia. The species occurs in a range of environments around the world, including both temperate and tropical woodlands. Many gardeners include Dutchman's pipe in gardens as an ornamental since the flowers are striking in appearance with a thick, tubular shape and mottled maroon and white coloration. All species of Dutchman's pipe grow reliably from seeds, but they take up to two months to germinate and grow somewhat slowly at first. However, they will flower in their first year if provided with partial shade, ample moisture…
Holly is the common name for bushes of the genus Ilex, which includes a variety of deciduous and evergreen species found in woodlands around the world. Ilex aquifolium, or European holly, is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its glossy, dark-green leaves and scarlet berries, which add color to gardens during the winter months. Although hollies are primarily propagated from cuttings, most will grow from a seed if it is sown fresh and exposed to cold temperatures. However, they are extremely slow to germinate and take many years to mature.
Purple millet is the common name for Pennisetum glaucum "Purple Majesty," an ornamental cultivar of annual grass grown for its purple leaves and cattail-like flower spikes. The flower spikes contain a large quantity of small, pearl-like seeds, which can be used to grow new plants. However, the seeds must be sown into warm soil to successfully germinate, so it's best to start the seeds indoors four to six weeks before the last winter frost if they are to reach their ultimate height of 3 to 5 feet by the end of the growing season.
Devil's trumpet, or Datura inoxia, earned its common name both with the thorny look of its seed pods and the extreme toxicity of the plant, which is lethal if consumed. Despite its dangerous reputation, many gardeners grow devil's trumpet as an ornamental plant for its grayish-green leaves and showy flowers, which are 5 to 7 inches long with a trumpet-like shape. Seeds provide the primary means of growing new devil's trumpet plants since they germinate reliably and mature very quickly. However, the seeds grow best if sown directly in the garden since the young plants do not respond well to…
After you plant your grass seed, the last thing you want to see is pigeons walking around the yard eating the grass seed. Besides pigeons, you may have other bird species feeding alongside the pigeons. Before the pigeons get a chance to eat your newly planted grass seed, you need to use some type of protection rather than a scare tactic, which is unlikely to work because pigeons have become accustomed to urban life, according to the Illinois Department of Health Prevention and Control.
Grass seeds require certain elements, such as light, moisture and warmth, to sprout and grow. While most grass seeds need abundant amounts of light from natural sources or full-spectrum grow lights, these seeds will sprout and survive for a time under limited-spectrum lights, such as black lights. However, grass grown under these lights tends to produce weak seedlings.
Linum perenne, or blue flax, is native to Eurasia but grown throughout the U.S. Blue flax is enjoyed for its appearance, its usefulness in erosion control plantings and as forage for grazing animals and birds. Linum perenne, which performs best on well-drained soils, can tolerate a variety of conditions including cold weather, drought and partial shade. It grows from seed fairly easily whether sown directly in the field as a crop or wildflower mix, or indoors in pots or cell packs.
Cotinus coggygria goes by several common names, including smoke bush, smoke tree and fustet. The common name smoke bush refers to the airy appearance of the pale purple flowers, which strongly resemble wood smoke when in full bloom. It adds a striking visual element to gardens both with its flowers and its purplish foliage, which turn shades of yellow, pink and orange in autumn. Unlike many species of ornamental shrub, smoke bush grows true from seeds, even if the seeds are old. However, they require a lengthy period of warm and cold stratification to successfully germinate.
Red mulberry trees grow naturally in the open woodlands of the eastern and central United States, but they are also widely cultivated across most of the country as ornamental shade trees. Red mulberry is a tree of medium size — an ultimate height of 70 feet — with a rounded crown of light-green, heart-shaped leaves and small, reddish-purple berries in late summer. Although many red mulberry trees are hybrids with sterile seeds, most are capable of growing true from seed if the seeds are sown fresh and exposed to alternating cold and warm temperatures to break their dormancy.
Kudzu (Pueraria montana) is a semiwoody, climbing vine of the legume family as well as a vigorous grower. It once was renowned as an erosion-control species and was planted throughout the United States in the 1930s through the '50s for this purpose. Today, it is considered a destructive and invasive weed that grows over everything in its path. Kudzu climbs over other plants, trees and inanimate objects, ultimately girdling and suffocating them. Despite its vigorous growth habit – it can spread 1 foot a day and reach as long as 100 feet – kudzu seeds are relatively difficult to propagate…
Bay laurel, or Laurus nobilis, is a species of evergreen tree native to the dry woodlands of the Mediterranean basin. It is often cultivated as an ornamental tree for its leathery, ovate leaves, which are sometimes used as a culinary herb for their intense aroma and flavor. The trees produce round, black berries in summer that contain a large seed, which can be extracted and used to grow new bay laurel trees. Growing bay laurels from seeds is a reliable means of propagating new trees, but the seeds must first be scarified, or nicked, to weaken the hull and allow…
Native to the Mediterranean region, stocks (Matthiola incana) are both lovely and fragrant. These half-hardy annuals are well-suited to cool climates and thrive in the same conditions as pansies and other spring- and fall-flowering annuals. Stocks grow 12 to 30 inches in height, depending on cultivar, and are easy to start from seed, either indoors or directly in the flower garden. The blooms are often doubled and come in almost every color except true blue and orange. Stocks make good cut flowers, too.
Also known as hound's tongue, Chinese forget-me nots (Cynoglossum amabile) are easy growing annual wildflowers for gardeners hoping to add some blue to the landscape. Growing to 1 1/2 feet tall, the Chinese forget-me not produces clusters of blue flowers in spring and summer and then fades when the weather warms up and humidity levels rise. Chinese forget-me nots tolerate sun or partial shade and grow well within zones 3 through 10 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Direct-sow into the garden in spring, after the last frost date, or summer.
Rhus glabra is the botanical name for smooth sumac, a species of shrubby tree found in moist environments across the eastern and central United States. It is frequently cultivated as an ornamental tree for its striking fruit and autumn foliage, which share a scarlet-red coloration. The fruit contain small, yellowish seeds which provide the primary means of growing new Rhus glabra trees. However, the seeds must be processed before sowing since the outer coating is very hard and will slow germination if not softened by soaking.
It is easy to grow a Persian lime from seed, but the chances are small that you will get the tree or fruit that you want. According to Julia F. Morton in "Fruits of Warm Climates", only 10 of 114 Persian lime seedlings grown in an experiment at the University of Florida agricultural research center had foliage or fruit characteristic of a Persian lime. Persian limes have few to no seeds, so it may take a few limes to find seeds to plant. If you're willing to contend with the large thorns, seed-grown lime trees make attractive ornamental plants.
Bottle gourds (Lagenaria siceraria) earned their common name for the unusual shape of their fruit, which feature a broad base tapering to a narrow tip. The fruit appears along leafy, climbing vines that grow very large within one growing season, topping out at 12 feet in just a few months. Seeds provide the only reliable means of growing bottle gourds, and although many gardeners plant the seeds directly in the ground, it is best to sow them in containers indoors four weeks before the last spring frost.
For most of the year, muhly grows as a dense, clumping ornamental grass. Gardeners prize it for its thick, lush growth and easy-growing attitude. Muhly is a hardy ornamental plant. It is drought tolerant and will grow in any soil with access to full sun or partial shade with very little help from you. And late in the season it will explode in delicate feathered pink plumes making it the focus of the garden. Muhly grass easily is grown by seed. Plant it in late winter or early spring. As soon as temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, your muhly seed…
Gather conifer seeds from your favorite trees in early fall and start growing new trees for your landscape. Successfully growing conifers from seeds begins with selecting mature cones, extracting the seeds and placing the seeds in a proper environment for growth stimulating germination. Growing a conifer from seed is a slow process. Be prepared to wait up to 2 years before you can transplant the new seedling outside.
Palmer's penstemon (Penstemon palmeri), also called scented beardtongue, is a perennial wildflower native to the southwestern U.S. It grows up to 6 feet tall and has gray-green leaves with rough edges. Its fragrant blooms resemble those of a snapdragon and are produced in white and various shades of pink. Palmer's penstemon performs best in sandy soil and exposure to at least six hours of sunlight each day. Sow the seeds directly into the garden after temperatures cool in fall, as germination is increased with exposure to several weeks of cold temperatures.
Purple prairie clover (Petalostemum purpureum) is a perennial flower that grows wild in north and central parts of the United States. It reaches a height of up to 3 feet and produces purple-pink, cone-shaped flowers from late spring until the first killing frost of fall. The plants not only are attractive, but are also a good food source for livestock. Purple prairie clover thrives in dry, sandy soil and full sun. It is best propagated by seed, as success by root division is limited.
Mimosa pudica, also called sensitive plant, has delicate, fern-like foliage that reacts to physical touch by folding upward. The leaves are also sensitive to lack of light and move on their own after darkness falls. Mimosa pudica is a tropical plant that cannot tolerate exposure to temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit and must be grown indoors in most locations. It thrives in fertile soil and full or partial sunlight. The plants grow readily from seed at temperatures of approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The seeds take from two to three weeks to sprout.
The Viguiera goldeneye flower attracts bees, butterflies, and birds to your garden. This plant is drought resistant and hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 4 through 10. The yellow flowers appear in midsummer and continue to bloom through mid fall. Sow the seeds when the soil is 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the fall or early spring.
Golden trumpet vine, or Allamanda cathartica, is a rapid grower that willingly climbs into shrubs and low trees on hardy, twining trunks. In tropical locations, this heat-lover is valued for the clusters of cheerful trumpet shaped blooms it produces all year long. In northern gardens, A. cathartica can be grown as an annual; though it will not survive a winter freeze, the rampant tendrils can be trained up posts, fences, pergolas and trees. While golden trumpet vine is most easily propagated from cuttings, with a bit of advanced planning, it can also be started from seed.
Plants of the genus Sempervivum go by many common names, including hen and chicks, stonecrop and liveforever, which is a direct translation of the Latin name. All species of sempervivum are small, low-growing succulent plants with a rosette form and spreading growth habit. Although most sempervivums are commonly cultivated using vegetative propagation methods such as division, they also grow reliably from seeds if they are exposed to very warm, bright conditions and kept moderately moist. Sempervivum seedlings are very susceptible to a fungal infection called damping-off, but this is easily avoided by not overwatering.
An important commercial crop in the U.S., peanuts are probably not the first plant that comes to mind when gardeners plan their backyard gardens. Still, peanuts are relatively easy to grow from seeds. Peanuts are most often found in the South, but they can grow just about anywhere with 120 or so frost-free days.
Rutabagas belong to the genus Brassica, which includes common winter vegetables such as cabbages, turnips and Brussels sprouts. The large, fleshy tubers are prepared and eaten much like turnips, but they are less starchy with a sweeter flavor and smoother texture. Rutabagas can be grown from seed in spring and late summer, depending on the time of year you wish to harvest. The roots taste sweetest when grown during cool weather, so it is best to plant in late summer, about 12 weeks before the first hard frost in autumn.
Echeveria is the genus and common name for a large group of succulent plants sometimes referred to as hen-and-chicks for their habit of producing numerous small offshoots, or pups, around the base. Many species of echeveria are cultivated as ornamental plants for their attractive form, which features a dense rosette of thick, jade-green or rose-tinted leaves along a stout stalk. Echeverias are most commonly cultivated from cuttings, but they also grow well from fresh seeds. However, the seedlings grow very slowly for the first few months and take one to two years to mature.
The genus Podocarpus encompasses a wide variety of coniferous evergreen trees commonly known as southern yews or fern trees. Species such as Podocarpus costalis and Podocarpus macrophylla are widely cultivated in landscaping for their broad, needlelike foliage and showy berries, which contain small seeds that can be used to grow new trees. Growing podocarpus trees from seed is simple but time-consuming since they sometimes take up to two months before sprouting, but the seeds will germinate reliably if provided with a moist environment where temperatures stay below 50 F at all times.
Thrift, or Armeria maritima, charms gardeners with its grasslike foliage and dainty flower clusters, which emerge in a range of white and pink shades. Despite its delicate appearance, thrift will withstand harsh growing conditions such as drought, poor soil and exposure to salty ocean air, sending up its carnation-like flowers year after year with minimal care or attention. Seeds provide the most reliable means of growing new thrift plants. It is best to sow the seeds directly into the garden in fall at least six weeks before the first expected frost.
Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. Rapaceum), also called knob celery or turnip-rooted celery, is a cool-season vegetable grown for its swollen root that develops underground. The vegetable is not commonly found in grocery and vegetable stores, making it a suitable addition to your vegetable patch. It produces deep green stems above the ground that are virtually pest-free. With a flavor similar to celery and shaped like a lumpy potato, the tasty vegetable is eaten raw, added to salads or cooked in soups and stews. It requires a long growing season, usually 100 to 120 days.
Heuchera 'Marvelous Marbles' is a variety of Coral Bell perennials that are cold-hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9. The plant produces small flowers in the summer, and the foliage is purple in the spring, then darkens to green throughout the season. In warm climates, the plant can be evergreen if there is little to no frost. Growing Marvelous Marbles from seed is simple. The plant makes an excellent container plant, and is an attractive border plant in the landscape.
Many preschoolers garden right alongside the older family members. They typically understand that you bury a seed in the dirt and sometime later, a plant pops up. Use this activity to show your youngster what happens to the seed underground after you plant it, but before the little seedling pokes its head through the surface. Show your child how to make a tiny greenhouse out of a cup with cotton inside it to sprout some seeds. While the experiment works with just about any type of seed, children can enjoy eating their own radish, alfalfa and broccoli sprouts.
The Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica L.) is also named emblic. This plant is not the same as the Otaheite gooseberry, which many times is erroneously termed the Indian gooseberry. Emblic is a plant native to tropical Asia where it grows as an ornamental tree, reaching heights of 60 feet. The fruits look like translucent green berries and grow along the stems of the branches, with six to eight pale lines seemingly dividing the berries into segments. The fruits are very acidic and high in ascorbic acid. In the center of the ripe, green fruits there is a small hexagonal stone…
Brazilian button flowers, also known as bachelor's buttons, are bright blue and purple and the plant produces them up until frost comes in the fall. Brazilian buttons are small, only reaching heights of about 24 inches, and spreads of 18 to 24 inches. They are heat-tolerant and grow in almost any soil. Brazilian buttons germinate from seed easily after the soil has warmed, and are good companion plants for other brightly colored flowers.
Starting vegetable, flower and landscape plants from seed is less expensive than purchasing plants and gives the gardener access to a much wider array of plant varieties than might be available through the limited selection at a local nursery. Success in growing seeds is improved through careful attention to the temperature requirements of different plant species.
Osteospermums, or African daisies, supply annual summer color in most climates. The daisy-like blossoms have large center eyes and come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, blue and purple. The plants grow between 2 and 5 feet tall depending on the variety. They provide banks of deep green foliage and bright flowers in beds, borders or containers throughout the garden. Plant osteospermum seeds indoors eight weeks before the last expected spring frost so they are ready to plant outside and bloom in early summer.
Nandina is a common name of heavenly bamboo and hails from India and China. The plant has a bushy growth pattern with vertical stems and is a landscape specimen in the United States. While nandina is available as mature plants in nurseries, they also germinate well from seed. The key to growing nandina from seed is to plant the seeds while they are still fresh. Older seeds will germinate, but they take much longer, often up to one year.
Dwarf snapdragons, or Antirrhinum majus dwarf, are short lived perennials that typically grow as annuals. While the stems are too short to perform well in cut arrangements, these diminutive lovelies are dazzling in mass plantings and borders. Dwarf snapdragons are easy to start from seeds. The plants are undemanding and require very little maintenance once they’re well established.
Native to Africa, tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is a slow-growing tree that reaches heights of 80 feet, with a spread of 30 to 40 feet. The tropical shade tree produces strong branches with drooping ends, feathery foliage, and tiny flowers with orange or yellow streaks. Its long, slender pods provide edible fruit that is pureed and used as a tangy seasoning in Chinese, Thai and tropical dishes. Propagating the tree from seed is an inexpensive way of including it in your garden. However, because of the low germination rates, plan to plant more seeds than required.
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L.) petals may be used as a substitute for saffron, and the seeds can be pressed for oil or included in a birdseed mix. This Mediterranean flower grows readily in United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 to 9, and is frost-sensitive. Safflower has no major pest problems, and disease problems can be managed by planting disease-free seeds and rotating your bed location annually.
Propagating cedar from seed is a simple and inexpensive way of including the landscape trees in your yard or garden. The attractive conifers grow over 60 feet tall and 20 to 40 feet wide, so ensure the planting site provides plenty of room to spread and grow. Originating from the Himalayas and Mediterranean, the sun-loving evergreen trees provide functional and decorative purposes in the landscape. Instead of planting the seeds as soon as you obtain them, provide them the cold treatment necessary for germination.
Cosmos sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus) is an annual plant with tall, fragile stem and delicate, fern-like foliage. The blooms resemble those of a daisy and are available in many colors, including pink, purple, red, white and rose. Cosmos sensation seeds germinate readily when sown directly into the garden. They do best in full sun and soil with good drainage. Planting the seeds in fertile soil may result in abundant foliage and few flowers, making them a good choice for areas where many other plants are unlikely to thrive.
The Fragrant pear is a complicated hybrid of several types of Asian pear trees. Chinese growers in a small area in the far western area of the country in the Xinjiang region plant orchards of the Fragrant pears and carefully package them for export to places such as Canada and, more recently, the United States. The seeds that come from the fruit of the Fragrant pear will not necessarily bear the same type of fruit as the Fragrant pear.
The aster plant produces nonstop flowers throughout the summer months. The flower's name is derived from the Greek word for star and the plant's daisy-like blooms bear a striking resemblance to stars. The flowers come in a wide array of colors and make excellent cut specimens. A perennial, the aster is easy to start from seed and requires only minimal care once established. The aster plant will grow well in US Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Even though milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) has "weed" right in its name, it is a native plant you may want to include in your garden. Monarch butterflies, in particular, are naturally attracted to milkweed, though painted lady, mourning cloak and several swallowtail varieties of butterfly also use milkweed as food. The purple-flowering plant, which reaches 6 to 8 feet tall, can form the backbone of a butterfly garden. With the right materials and supplies, you can grow that milkweed directly from seeds.
Mahogany, known scientifically as Swietenia mahagoni, is a large semievergreen tree enjoyed for its strong wood and a canopy that casts only a light shade, making it suitable for lawn and other landscape plantings. Mahogany is propagated by seed. Growers can typically enjoy a high degree of success germinating mahogany seeds as long as certain collection, storage and sowing practices are observed.
Camellias are showy evergreen shrubs or trees grown for their striking white, pink or red blooms that typically measure 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Although the shrubs propagated from seed take three to five years to bloom, the process is an inexpensive and simple one. For best results, plants the seeds immediately after they are produced in the summer, since they lose their potency with time. Transplant the seedlings to the desired outdoor spot in spring after the danger of frost is over.
Creeping red sedum is a native plant of Japan. This slow-growing plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 10. It is often used as a ground cover for rock gardens or other difficult areas because of its ability to grow in almost any kind of soil. Growing creeping red sedum from seed does not offer a good germination rate, but you can take steps to improve the chances of success.
If you are looking for brightly colored blossoms that bloom all summer long, consider planting bee balm, or Monarda didyma. Although it is sometimes seen in shades of pink, salmon, violet and white, brilliant red is the most common color, and the bright, fragrant flowers attract hummingbirds and bees into the garden. Bee balm is hardy in US Department of Agriculture zones 4 through 9, but the plants easily succumb to mildew in areas with long, hot summers. Start seeds indoors in late winter.
White yarrow, or Achillea millefolium, is a perennial herb cultivated for its airy, white flower umbels, which appear in spring and last through the summer months. Gardeners include white yarrow in landscaping for its attractive appearance and ability to thrive with little attention or maintenance, but perhaps its greatest trait is the ease with which it grows from seeds. Growing white yarrow seeds takes little effort, but it is best to germinate them indoors before planting them out in the garden since the plants take up to one year to fully mature.
Commonly known as cockscomb, plants of the genus Celosia are widely grown as ornamental plants for their unusual, brightly colored flower heads. The flowers possess a fuzzy, heavily wrinkled texture, which stands out in garden beds when planted in large drifts. All species of celosia grow reliably from seeds if they are started indoors at least four weeks before the last frost in spring. However, the seeds must be kept very warm during their early development to keep the plants from becoming stunted.
Edelweiss charms many gardeners with its silvery foliage and starry white flowers, which add striking visual interest to meadow or woodland-style gardens. Although they are short-lived, edelweiss plants reproduce readily from seed and will grow anew each year if planted in a cool, moist bed. However, it is best to start edelweiss seeds indoors six to eight weeks before planting them out in the garden since they are slow to establish and succumb easily to erratic temperature fluctuations and dry soil.
Verbena brasiliensis and Verbena bonariensis are two synonymous botanical names for Brazilian vervain, a perennial species of flowering herb grown as an ornamental for its showy purple flower clusters. The species is distinguished from other varieties of vervain by its lanky stature, which reaches 4 to 5 feet at maturity. As with all species of verbena, Brazilian vervain grows effortlessly from seeds and will flower during its first year, but the plants must be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost to produce a healthy root system before planting time.
Honeydew melons have a creamy, yellowish-green rind and tender pink, white or orange flesh. They have a sweet flavor, similar to that of a cantaloupe. The melons grow best when daytime temperatures are at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Honeydews thrive in full sun and fertile soil that drains quickly. For earlier fruits, start the seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost of spring. Move the seedlings to a prepared garden site approximately 14 days after the last anticipated frost date of spring.
Native to China, the calamondin or calamansi (X Citrofortunella mitis) grows widely in the Phillipines and Indonesia and has been grown in the United States since 1899, according to horticulturist Julia F. Morton, via Purdue University. Plant the tree in areas that support citrus crops, such as California, Florida and the Gulf Coast region. Calamansi, valued more for its appearance than fruit taste, can be substituted for limes in any dish. Calamansi trees planted from seed take five to six years to bear fruit.
Romanesco broccoli (Brassica oleracea), which resembles cauliflower more than broccoli, is a popular variety in Italy. It's the type of broccoli that doesn't need to be smothered with a sauce: a little melted butter dripped over the top of steamed Romanesco is a side-dish you won't soon forget. A cool weather crop, it happily survives being planted before the last frost date in your region. The seeds, however, should be started indoors six to eight weeks prior to that date.
Cattails (Typha latifolia), known for their distinct, cigar shape and deep-brown tips, are found among soggy soils, marshes and wetlands. The plant often reaches heights up to 6 feet tall with leaves up to 2 inches wide. Cattails’ appearance help define wetlands, bogs and other water retentive regions. Growing them from seed in appropriate environments provides shelter and food for wildlife while contributing to the surrounding beauty of a wetland garden. Before growing cattails, note they are prolific and continue multiplying if not properly controlled in many regions.
Commonly known as love-in-a-mist, Nigella damascena is an annual species of flowering plant commonly cultivated in gardens for its airy foliage and starry, periwinkle-blue flowers. The common name refers to the unusual, lacy foliage surrounding each flower, which gives the plant a misty look. Like most annuals, Nigella damascena grows most reliably from seeds, which are typically sown directly in the garden as soon as the soil softens in spring. The seeds germinate reliably and will quickly reach a mature height of 18 inches, but the soil must be kept moderately moist at all times to ensure the plants' survival.
Robert Poore phlox is an herbaceous perennial flowering plant. This variety of phlox is hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 9, and it grows up to 5 feet tall with a 3-foot spread. The Robert Poore phlox blooms from August to September with violet to pink flowers. It will attract both birds and butterflies to your garden. You can save money by planting the Robert Poore phlox from seed instead of buying a transplant.
Vinca major. Greater periwinkle. Big leaf periwinkle. It sounds as if Vinca major is the big cheese of the flower garden. Vinca major “Variegata” derives its name as a way to distinguish it from its smaller, more aggressive cousin. The Variegata cultivar has green leaves outlined at the edges with yellow. It thrives in shady spots within the garden, where it trails over the ground, bearing blue flowers in the spring. Seeds germinate readily under the right conditions. Start them indoors in the winter so they're ready to be set out when the weather warms.
Growing fruit trees from seed not only provides a use for seeds that you would otherwise discard into the trash — it can be much more cost-effective than buying the fruit from the grocery store as you need it. Tamarind, for instance, can be easily grown from stored seeds, so long as the proper germination and cultural care steps are taken to bring the tree to full health.
The pawpaw tree, also called Asimina triloba, produces large, plump fruits that taste like a blend of banana, apple and mango. These tasty fruits inspire some gardeners to grow their own pawpaw trees. Pawpaw seeds germinate very slowly, and without cold stratification, they may not germinate at all. If you want to grow a pawpaw tree from seed, keep the seed in the refrigerator to break its dormancy and achieve germination.
Verbenas are available in about 250 varieties. You can buy seeds for perennial and annual varieties, for low-growing types that attain only 6 inches and for tall, stalky varieties that grow as tall as 6 feet. Flowers come in white, blue, pink and purple, and verbenas continue to bloom throughout the summer and into the fall. The taller, woodier types do best in hotter temperatures, while the lower bedding-type tender varieties thrive in a more temperate climate. All types of verbenas bloom best in direct sunlight.
Growing thick grass from seed starts off with proper soil preparation. Grass cannot properly spread when it must compete with weeds for the soil's nutrients and moisture. Fertile soil contributes ample nutrients, such as phosphorous from grass' root systems, to develop and top growth. Using the correct fertilizer that is low in nitrogen prevents stressing grass' root systems. Weak grass roots prevent spreading and raise the risk of fungal disease or future weed growth.
Fatsia japonica, or Japanese aralia, charms gardeners with its large, lobed leaves and sprawling growth habit since it adds a dramatic element to ornamental landscaping. The shrubs grow effortlessly from seed and eventually reach a mature height of 6 to 10 feet if planted in a partially shaded bed with fertile soil and some protection from strong winds. The seeds, however, must be sown fresh and kept warm, moist and near bright light to prompt reliable germination.
It's quite a leap from the elegant botanical name, Iberis sempervines to the common name: candytuft. This charming plant manages to pull off either name quite well. A perennial, ground-hugging plant, I. sempervirens is native to southern Europe. It grows to 1 foot in height with a 1 1/2-foot spread and resembles a snowy white mound when in bloom in April and May. Candytufts grow best in zones 3 through 8 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
The genus Pittosporum contains many different trees and shrubs, including cheesewood, lemonwood, matipo and channon, among many others. Most Pittosporum varieties have dark green leaves, with some dwarf varieties having red leaves. No matter which variety you prefer, you can grow them all from seed with very little difficulty. Unlike other plant seeds, those of the Pittosporum do not require any pretreatment or stratification before germination occurs.
If you enjoy fresh dill on foods such as salmon or in salads, planting it in your garden is ideal. Growing dill from seed is easy even if you don't have much experience as a gardener. Dill grows quickly and it's common to have usable dill fronds roughly eight weeks after planting the seeds. If you use the herb on a regular basis, you can stagger your planting so that you'll have new, fresh dill throughout the summer.
The rutabaga (Brassica napobrassica) and the turnip are so similar that scientists believe that the former may have resulted from a cross between the turnip and wild cabbage. Rutabagas are cool weather crops that must be harvested before temperatures reach 75 degrees Fahrenheit but shouldn't be planted until the soil temperature remains at 50 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer. Harvest the rutabaga 90 days after planting.
Bunny tail grass (Lagurus ovatus) is an annual ornamental grass species grown for its soft, fluffy flower heads, or panicles. The species grows easily from seeds and quickly naturalizes a large area, sending up mounding clumps of 6- to 12-inch-tall stems topped with the dense and silky panicles. Although the species is tolerant of cold temperatures, the seeds are best started in pots indoors three weeks before the last frost in spring so they are well established by planting time.
Verbena has long been cultivated in gardens both as an ornamental plant and as a fragrant herb used in perfumery and herbal medicine. Common verbena, or Verbena x hybrida, is the most widely cultivated variety, particularly in warm climates with a long growing season. The plants grow easily from seeds and mature in their first year, but the young plants are susceptible to a fungal infection called damping-off and must be kept moderately dry during the germination period to ensure survival.
Lantana camara is the ideal plant to add color to a hot, dry garden. A member of the Verbena family, L. camara varieties bloom in purple, yellow, deep red and variegated colors. The plants only grow to 2 to 6 inches in height, some with a mounding form, and make lovely ground covers. They also do well in hanging containers, where they eventually spill their flowers over the sides. Some varieties of L. camara are considered invasive, so consult your county cooperative extension office if you've any questions about which varieties are safe to plant in your area. Start Lantana…
Ground cherries, also known as husk tomatoes and gooseberries, are a member of the Physalis family and are related to tomatillos. The plant reaches up to 30 inches tall and has growing requirements similar to a tomato plant. The fruit of the ground cherry plant is yellow-orange and tastes like a mild cross between a strawberry and a pineapple. The fruits are roughly the size of a cherry tomato.
Sycamore trees (Platanus occidentalis) are not only fast-growing; they are also tall, usually reaching heights of 75 to 100 feet. Also called buttonball trees and American plane trees, the deciduous trees grow best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 to 9. Native to North America, sycamore trees are easily identified by their exfoliating bark and large leaves. The seeds germinate easily, and with proper care and maintenance, you can easily grow the shade trees in your landscape.
The familiar, fuzzy brown kiwifruit found in grocery stores (Actinidia chinensis) is a warm-climate crop grown only in the deep south. Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) are cherry-sized fruit with smooth, green skin that tolerates cold temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for gardeners further north. Formerly called Chinese gooseberry, New Zealand growers started calling the succulent fruit kiwifruit to improve the marketability, and the name stuck. Both types of kiwifruit can be grown from seeds, although the seeds aren't usually found in garden centers or seed catalogs.
Every garden should have an accent piece – a plant that grabs attention. The crossvine (Bignonia capreolata) does just that, and doesn't let go. Growing to 50 feet in length, it scrambles over support structures, dripping with clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers. Its glossy foliage commands an audience as well, especially when it turns red in winter. Crossvines propagate readily from seed and are easy to grow.
Commonly known as floss flower, plants of the genus Ageratum have long been grown in gardens for their dense, frilly flower clusters and attractive, lightly serrated leaves. The flowers appear in late spring and persist until autumn before fading and being replaced by clusters of brownish, oblong seed clusters. If gathered and stored in a cool, dry spot until spring, the seeds will germinate reliably and quickly grow into mature plants. For best results, sow seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost.
No self-respecting butterfly gardener should be without at least one eupatorium. Whether you plant Eupatorium coelestinum, also known as ageratum, or Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium fistulosum), these aster family plants act as magnets to a variety of butterflies. Eupatorium, depending on species, grows from 5 to 7 feet in height, with a 3- to 4-foot spread and bears nectar-rich white or yellow flowers from late summer through early fall. Eupatorium is hardy from zones 4 through 6, although some varieties may do well in zone 8, on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
European ginger (Asarum europaeum) is a low-growing plant used as a ground cover for shady areas. It is grown for its glossy, dark green, kidney-shaped foliage that stays green throughout the year. The flowers lie on the ground beneath the foliage where crawling insects use them as hiding places. As the insects come and go, they spread pollen from plant to plant. When the seeds mature, ants carry them into their hills where they eat the oily coatings and leave the seeds to germinate. When European ginger seeds are dried, they take a year or two to germinate, so seeds…
Verbena "Imagination" is a low-growing, heat-loving plant with feathery green foliage. It is drought tolerant and blooms profusely in violet-blue flower clusters. This hardy plant works well as ground cover, as a border planting, and even in containers and hanging baskets. Verbena is perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 9 through 10, and seeds can be planted outdoors after the last frost in these areas. In colder regions, verbena is used as an annual, and seeds should be started indoors eight to 10 weeks before the last frost.
Launched in March 2011, the Will It Bloom quest for "Habbo Hotel" awards all users with Garden Seed. Through a series of rooms with established gardens, robot gardeners and hints, visitors of the "Habbo Hotel" can find what they need to make their seed grow. Completing this task will allow you to add two previously unavailable items to your hotel.
A mixture of dirt and sand provides the optimal growing medium for many types of grass seeds, according to the Lawn Institute. However, if the soil contains too much sand, it won’t hold the moisture and nutrients that grass needs to thrive. Correct this by amending sandy soil with decomposed organic matter -- or humus -- before spreading seed on the planting site and by irrigating when the soil dries to 2 inches below the surface around grass roots
Placing grass seeds on a layer of wet cotton balls is a quick and easy way to germinate and grow grass seed for personal amusement, science education or the practical purpose of providing fresh greens for pet guinea pigs or cats. Cotton balls work as a substrate or base material for growing grass seed because they absorb water and hold it close to the seeds, just as soil does.
Tobacco is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in different climates throughout the United States. Tobacco seeds are extremely small and are sown in containers indoors from late winter to early spring before the last frost. Once the plant is ripe and mature, it is harvested and dried in a cool, dark environment. Growing tobacco from seeds ensures the crop is free from harmful pesticides and other dangerous chemicals.
Phalaenopsis, or moth orchids, are tropical, epiphytic orchids that thrive in low light and typical household temperatures. While you can obtain these orchids from garden centers and grocery stores fully grown, adventurous gardeners can grow them from seed at home. Phalaenopsis orchids require a well-draining growing medium enriched with mycorrhizal fungi to germinate and grow successfully from seed. Phalaenopsis has gently arching stems with flat, moth-like blossoms that bloom in a wide variety of brilliant and pastel colors.
Artichokes originate in the warm, dry Mediterranean region, where the immature flower buds are eaten as a delicacy. They command a hefty price at most markets and many gardeners turn to growing artichoke plants at home to harvest the fresh buds for eating. Although most modern artichoke strains are grown using cuttings or division, cultivars such as Harmony, Purple of Romagna and Green Globe Improved rely on seeds to reproduce and will bear a normal crop of flower buds in 175 days if planted in early spring.
The cosmos variety "Candy Stripe" has feathery green leaves and striking white flowers with red picotee edges and red striping on the petals. Being a C. bipinnatus hybrid, it does not grow as tall as its yellow and orange C. sulphureus cousins. The flowers create an attractive contrast when planted with other pink, red and white C. binnatus varieties, or it stands well on its own. The key to growing this beautiful flower successfully is not to pamper it. Left to its own devices, Candy Stripe will produce volumes of flowers and will reseed itself for another show next year.
Many gardeners prefer annual periwinkle, Catharanthus roseus, also called the Madagascar periwinkle or rose periwinkle, because it is not invasive like ground cover varieties of periwinkle. This plant's glossy green foliage and delicate pink, white or red flowers are both attractive and easy to maintain. Periwinkle can grow in sun or partial shade and any kind of soil. Growing periwinkle from seed is a cost-effective way to fill your garden areas with attractive flowers that bloom all summer long.
Safflower is a relative of the sunflower and a native of parts of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its orange and yellow thistle-like flowers were originally used to make dyes. Today, American farms grow safflower for its oil rich seeds used to make cooking oils. This 1- to 4-foot tall, broad-leaf annual tolerates drought well because of its taproot, which can grow 8 to 10 feet long. Only a few pests bother safflower, including wireworms, cutworms and grasshoppers.
The grass seed that grows in a particular yard is affected by a variety of factors, including climate, sun exposure and moisture. Warm-season grasses will grow best in southern states, while northern states do best with cool-season grasses. Areas in-between may require a mixture of these two types of grass or may require cool-season grasses.
Perfection is a relative term, and when it comes to lawn care, most homeowners settle for a healthy lawn over a perfect lawn. Creating the perfect lawn requires frequent herbicide and chemical applications, as well as constant mowing, trimming and edging. Both practices are expensive, time-consuming and environmentally unfriendly. However, by following proper lawn care techniques, you'll establish an attractive, healthy lawn with reasonable maintenance costs.
Swiss chard, a cool-season leafy green, produces edible stalks and leaves. It's valued as a cooked green. Standard varieties have deep green leaves with white ribs and stalks while more exotic varieties have red or yellow ribs and stalks. Chard grows best in sunny locations in the cooler spring season. You can also grow it as a fall crop if you plant it outdoors after average daily temperatures drop below 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plants germinate and grow quickly, so it it's typically seeded directly in the garden bed.
Echinacea, also called coneflower, is grown for its medicinal properties. Generally an easy-to-grow herb once established, some varieties of echinacea are challenging to start. This is true of Echinacea angustifolia. This variety, however, needs fluctuating temperatures during the cold winter to germinate, but it's also one of the more profitable varieties to plant. Requiring extra care once established, this herb grows best in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 10.
Seeding a lawn can be a laborious and time consuming process, whether it's laying down tracts of sod or sprinkling seeds by hand. However, professionals who are able to take the specifics of your lawn into consideration can quickly do this by hydroseeding, which involves creating a fertile and potent mixture of seeds and nutrients. The process does have some limitations and requires follow up care.
Some types of grass seed are able to store food and moisture and survive for long periods in the ground. They remain dormant until conditions are suitable for them to start growing. Other types of grass seed will die within seven to 10 days if they are not able to germinate and begin growing immediately. Choose your grass seed carefully, and sow it according to the requirements of dormant seeding, and your seeds have a good chance of surviving.
Niger or ramtilla (Guizotia abyssinica) is an erect, annual, herbaceous crop cultivated for its edible seeds, which are often used to feed birds. Grown extensively in India and Ethiopia, Niger plants require warm temperatures, such as those found in the Southern United States. Cultivating a single Niger crop takes approximately three to four months from planting to harvest, according to the Purdue University Center for New Crops.
Fast-growing grass seed makes it quicker and easier to establish a lawn from seed rather than to purchase and install sod or plugs. "Fast grass" also makes it feasible to overseed dormant, damaged or tired lawns. Follow good lawn management practices to maintain newly seeded or reseeded lawns. Thick, healthy lawns "mowed tall," at about 3 or 4 inches, keep weeds at bay. Fertilize regularly and water as needed, only in the morning.
Laying sod is a much faster way to make your lawn beautiful than seeding it, although it is significantly more expensive than grass seed. If there is a large area of bare yard to cover, then you need to calculate the actual number of pieces to purchase. Normally, you would begin by finding out the average size of a piece of sod. However, there is no industry standard. Sod farms each cut their product differently.
The tea plant and wild tea plant, or assam tea (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis or C. sinensis var. assamica), are sources of tea used globally. The plants are native to the western regions of China and tropical southern Asia where they have been in cultivation for the past several centuries. Both the nursery-bought plants or seed-propagated plants grow equally well when provided optimal growth conditions.
The key to growing a grass for seed is not cutting it down when it starts to grow tall. Rye is a simple crop to grow, and it is used for pasture for animals as well as hay and a cover crop. However, the seed of rye can be ground into flour and used to make bread as well as alcoholic beverages and other edibles.
Hard-to-grow areas include parts of the yard that have acidic soil, too much shade or dry soil. In addition, areas that experience a high level of wear and tear have a difficult time supporting turf grass. Fortunately, gardeners can grow certain types of grass seed to achieve a dense-looking turf in their hard-to-grow areas.
Winter rye, a cool-season cereal grain, not to be confused with annual ryegrass, an annual cool-season grass, makes a nutritious forage pasture, a good winter food source and sturdy ground cover for deer. Planted in the fall, winter rye (the grain) provides good support for grazing deer herds alone or as part of a mixed forage planting. While not as popular as a forage grain as wheat and oats, rye is hardier, grows in poorer soils and resists disease better than its tastier cousins.
Fall rye, also known as winter rye, is a productive cover crop, providing the benefits of an edible crop for livestock, preventing runoff and aerating the soil. Planted in the fall, it germinates and grows in temperatures above freezing and withstands freezing temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit. It stops growing during cold weather, then greens again quickly in the spring. In cold climates, fall rye grows year round as a lawn or cover crop. In warmer climates, rye grass dies back when the weather heats up.
Simply stated, plants do not grow any slower at night than they do during the day. Plants do stop photosynthesizing at night, but the act of respiration, which is how plants create energy and grow, continues at night at more or less the same level as it does during the day, or even faster.
Emerald zoysia is a warm-season grass with a deep-green color, as its name implies. It is water efficient, slow growing and heat tolerant. Horticulturalists developed Emerald zoysia by crossing Zoysia japonica and Z. tenuifolia, which are both Asian/Australasian varieties. Although homeowners enjoy Emerald zoysia on their lawns, golf courses, parks and playgrounds use it as well.
Mountain Ash is the common name for various trees in the Sorbus genus, although it most often refers specifically to Sorbus Americana in the United States. It grows wild in the northeastern U.S. and is a common tree in landscape design. Mountain Ash can grow to 30 feet high with a trunk diameter of up to 10 inches. This tree grows readily from seed when it has a time of cold weather during the winter known as a cold specification period.
Rye grass is a cool weather, dark-green grass, best planted in the spring or early fall. Varieties of rye can either be annual, which is more often seen in the southern part of the United States, or perennial, which is spread throughout the cooler Midwest and northern states. Rye generates much seed and quickly reseeds itself if given the opportunity. Rye is grown as a cover crop during winter, and on golf courses and other areas where there is much traffic.
"Shabby chic" may be a comforting style of dress or home decoration, but it is not a good idea to let your yard effect the same untidy, casual appearance. Maintaining a seed-free lawn has several advantages. Even if you are coming to this advice late in the game, the health of your grass is not beyond hope.
Pick up moist garden soil and squeeze it in your hand. If it sticks together, forming a hard, sticky mass, you probably have clay soil. Clay soil is difficult for the gardener to work with. It also inhibits plant growth because little oxygen is able to reach plants' roots. Even if seeds germinate in clay soils, the resulting plants will likely grow slowly with reduced vigor. Add amendments, such as compost, manure, sawdust, peat moss and shredded leaves, annually to slowly improve the texture of clay soil.
How long a seeded garden takes to grow depends on several variables, such as the plant types, the soil temperature and the amount of moisture seeds receive. Many gardeners grow cool-season crops in the spring, followed by heat-loving crops in the summer. Some crops, such as radishes and spinach, mature in 40 days or less; other crops, such as pumpkins and watermelon need at least 80 days to mature.
When planting grass seed, homeowners are usually looking for the hardiest, fastest-growing seed available to improve their landscape quickly. Fast-growing grasses germinate within weeks after planting and grow quickly after sprouting. These grasses are easy to establish, but some may require more general care than others.
Fertilizer provides nutrients that grass needs to grow, especially nitrogen, which grass uses to form chemicals necessary for photosynthesis. Quick-release nitrogen fertilizers work within days, but these fertilizers have other disadvantages. Slow-release nitrogen fertilizers take several weeks to improve the quality of your grass, but their effects also last longer.
Bermuda grass not only goes dormant in the winter, it turns brown. The grass doesn't start turning green again until spring when temperatures become warmer, but it sometimes takes longer in some places than others due to cooling shade. If you want to encourage a speedier spring recovery for your Bermuda grass, then you can add a little something to the lawn to turn it greener quicker.
The length of time to grow a healthy lawn will depend on the type of grass seeds you plant, the weather and your treatment. Provide your lawn with all it needs to grow as quickly as possible by following prudent steps when planting a new lawn. You can see substantial coverage in four weeks or less.
Rye is a cereal grain used for human consumption, but rye grass is often planted as a food plot for deer. Along with other forage, deer will eat rye grass while it's actively growing in the spring and fall. Rye grass is a cool season annual or perennial that is high in protein and has a long growing season. However, growing the annual rye grass gives you more options for food plots in the future.
The cool season of fall is an excellent time to plant bulbs, perennials, shrubbery, young trees and grass. This is the season of more frequent rains to keep the soil moist, less opportunity for midday scorching from the sun and lower humidity. Fall planting is an excellent way to get a jump on spring as plants and grass have an opportunity to establish their root systems before their winter dormancy.
Harvester ants, as the name suggests, harvest little bits of grass to use in building nest mounds. There are many species of Harvester ants, most being found west of the Mississippi River. Harvester ants pack a nasty sting, so it's best to keep away from their mounds. To avoid getting Harvester ants in your yard, make sure that there are no sources of food, such as fruits and vegetables nearby.
Rye cereal is a cover crop and cereal grain that grows native in southern Europe, the Middle East and western Asia. Rye is cultivated for both human and animal consumption. Rye is also good as winter cover for fields subject to erosion. It grows quickly and well in many types of soil, even heavy clay and sandy soil, although it prefers well-draining, loamy soils. Rye can survive temperatures down to minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit and can grow in temperatures down to 33 F.
Cool season grass seed is commonly planted in the fall, according to Richard Jauron of Iowa State University. Some gardeners may be tempted to plant cool season grass in the spring, but they risk losing some of their grass to summer heat. Planting cool season grass in fall follows most of the same guidelines for planting warm season grass. However, soil temperatures and timing are critical to prevent seeds from drying out in hot soil.
Dead spots on your lawn can occur anytime of the year. Whether from pet urine, lawn disease, animals burrowing or insects, these unsightly spots can be quickly repaired. Scotts lawn care products provide several solutions. One of the easiest and quickest is to apply PatchMaster to the problem area and water regularly. In seven to 10 days, new grass will germinate and your lawn will be green again.
Peanuts require a four-month, frost-free growing season to successfully set and mature their pods. The plant grows as a low-growing herbaceous plant that produces bright yellow flowers. After flowering, the peanut produces stems, called pegs, that form on the branches of the plant and penetrate into the soil. The peanut pods develop underground at the end of the pegs. Peanuts have similar growing needs as beans and other legumes when planted in the home garden.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates) is the ingredient in certain Thai dishes that gives them that fresh, lemony flavor. The entire grass stalk can be used in cooking, added to soups and other dishes. A tropical grass, lemongrass requires warm temperatures and high humidity to do well. Start the lemongrass seeds indoors, eight weeks before the last frost date in your area. Don't transplant them outdoors until the temperature warms to at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Growing a beautiful lawn to some is as important as brushing their teeth. To others, keeping the lawn mowed is a part of household chores and not that important as long as it doesn't detract from their overall landscaping. We all enjoy well-kept lawns, such as those in parks, and are grateful for the people who work hard to keep the grass nice. The basis for all lawns is grass seed, unless you plan on laying sod, which still got its start from seed.
Many factors beyond the species of wood affect how long a piece of firewood burns. The size of the piece and how long it spent in storage affect the length of burn, and green wood burns longer but less efficiently than well-seasoned dry wood. Hardwoods outlast softwoods when used as fuel. Hardwoods with good "coaling qualities" and high British Thermal Unit (BTU) ratings provide the longest-burning and most efficient fires.
Grass, like any other plant, produces seeds when left to its own. In fact, this is actually how wild grasses take over entire fields. While this process may work with wild grass in pastures, it can be a little tricky for a typical yard. In order for your grass to successfully seed and grow without other undesirable things growing as well, you need to make certain preparations.
Keeping your garden and lawn free of weeds is an ongoing challenge that requires hours of hard work. You may be aware that it is not advisable to water directly after weeding, as the water will only encourage more weeds to sprout. However, you have to water to keep your garden healthy. There is a simple method for watering once the weeding is finished that will help keep your plants healthy and the weeds under control.
When you are going to seed the yard, preparation is key to ensuring the seeds grow into a lush, green lawn. Rolling a yard is vital to making sure the grass grows healthy and evenly around the home and should be done before spreading the lawn seeds. Smoothing out the soil ensures the lawn does not have any lumps or bumps as the seeds begin to grow and will establish the soil for a healthy lawn.
Your backyard is an extension of your house, and the lawn is the carpet. However, bare patches appear from time to time due to environmental conditions, lawn use or disease. Patching these spots with products such as Scotts Patchmaster can fill bare areas with grass again.
The most commonly grown cool-season grasses in the world, annual and perennial rye grasses provide winter grazing where warm-season grasses go dormant. Plant the versatile annual rye grass in late summer or early fall and perennial rye grass during the spring months. Originally from Asia, Europe and North Africa, the cool-season grass is used in pastures, sports fields and lawns throughout the world. Rye grass is grown from seeds that germinate quickly to spread and cover bare spots in the lawn. However, the grass requires plenty of water, especially during periods of drought.
Under the right conditions, grass seedlings can be seen within seven days of planting. But that's only part of the time it takes to grow a lawn. You also need time to prepare the soil, plant the seeds, fertilize and irrigate. Soil quality, sunlight availability and watering practices have the final say as to how nice the lawn will be when it matures. Three-inch-tall blades of grass mark the finish line, because this is when you get to mow.
Seeds are encapsulated plant embryos. Some are large, like sunflower seeds, while others are very small, like poppies. Every seed bearing plant, which are called spermatophytes, has adapted to very different environments, predators and growing conditions. These differences are the reason why seeds are so diverse. Despite their differences, however, seeds undergo similar growth stages before reaching maturity and manufacturing seeds of their own.
A healthy lawn provides higher property values, better water and air quality around your home, and a place to play. When establishing a new lawn, rolling the seed bed is an important step in the process.
Perfect World--or Perfect World International, to use its full name--is a massively multiplayer online role playing game (MMORPG) developed and produced by the Korean company Perfect Worlds Entertainment. Like most other MMORPGs in existence, the Perfect World design team is constantly updating their game to fix bugs and balance issues by releasing patches that each individual player needs to install in order to play the newest version of the game.
Unless you plan to rip out the grass and xeriscape your yard, mowing tasks are inevitable. You'll notice the most rapid growth mid-to-late spring; plan to mow at least weekly during this time. Growth slows by late June or July.
Lawn grasses are classified as two types: those that grow well in cool weather and those that grow well in warmer weather. Grasses that grow well from seed will grow from seed whenever the grass is actively growing.
If grass is the only thing missing from your yard, starting from seed is the most economical route to a green lawn. Whether you need to redo the entire yard or simply fill in a few bare patches, the basic process is simple, however, selecting the right grass seed for your climate is critical. Canby, Oregon sits near the Washington border, in the heart of the Willamette Valley. Located in zone 8A on the USDA hardiness map, the area is characterized by mild temperatures, abundant rainfall and a long growing season--an ideal environment for many different types of grass.
The cost of laying sod covers the purchase and the preparation of the area where it will be applied. A requirement for additional topsoil and a decision to have the sod professionally installed may drive the overall cost significantly higher.
The best way to seed grass begins with picking the right kind of grass seed for your part of the country as well as your specific soil type. By doing a quick soil test, you can save yourself a lot of hassle later on in the growing season.
Grass seed takes anywhere from a few days to a month to begin germinating. During that time, treatment will ensure the seeds grow and develop strong roots to become a thick, vibrant lawn.
Grass seed is a cheap way of growing a thick lawn, but it's also slower than laying down sod or spraying hydroseed. Some varieties of grass sprout almost immediately, and others can take weeks to show results.
Grass seeds need four key ingredients to germinate: warmth, light, oxygen and moisture. Without any one of these things, the seed casings may not split to allow root growth or the seeds may die before germinating.
Grass seed is the most cost effective way of growing a lawn, but it's also the slowest. Unlike sod and hydroseeding, which provide an almost-instant lawn, seeds need time to germinate and grow. Some grow faster than others.
Grass seed is a cheap way to grow a lush, green lawn. It's fairly simple, but still requires more work than just dumping seed onto the ground. A little care before and after sowing grass seed with result in a thick lawn.
Sodding a lawn provides you with an instant green lawn right away. Although grass seed is cheaper, some varieties of sod are cheaper from other types. The cost is reflected in the type of sod you choose.
Clay soil is extremely dense and made of tiny particles that stick to each other and to water. Clay soils are primarily found throughout the southeast parts of the United States, and they make growing things difficult as the roots have to push their way through the compacted soil. To make sure that your pasture or landscaping looks good, choose grass seed that tolerates clay soils well and can force its roots through the dense earth.
Although the germination time of any grass seed varies according to the weather and soil conditions, some types of grass definitely grow quicker than others. Fast-growing seeds do not require a lot of maintenance in terms of helping them get established. They also tend to be of the cool-season grass varieties and grow in areas with plenty of moisture.
Kikuyu grass is an aggressive invasive type of ground cover. It is a warm season grass suitable for tropical or semi-tropical climates. It creates excellent pasture forage and tolerates heavy grazing. It was brought into California in the 1920s in an effort to arrest erosion. It now grows all over the warm season states as a weed. It can be found as a turfgrass due to its overbearing nature and extremely rapid growth. A small patch of kikuyu grass in a lawn will soon develop into an entire area comprised of the grass. Kikuyu seed is hard to harvest but…
Mowing the lawn isn't on a lot of peoples' lists of favorite things to do. Reduce the amount of time spent mowing by planting slow-growing grass seed on new lawns. Many of these slow-growing grass seed types originate from warm climates and flourish in the southern regions of the United States. Choose the best slow-growing grass seed for your lawn based on the amount of traffic, pest-resistance, color, temperature and the time required for lawn establishment.
Chickweed is common throughout the world. According to the Virgina Tech Weed Identification Guide, chickweed is a winter annual with small leaves and white flowers with 10 petals. The plant grows in damp, shady areas. While it has certain medicinal values, it is also considered a weed and treated as unwanted in most lawns because it can crowd out other plants and take over lawns.
To grow grass seeds, first map out where the lawn will be planted and prepare the soil for grass seed. Loosen the soil, spread grass seed where desired, cover grass seed with a half-inch thick layer of dirt and keep moist until the grass seeds have sprouted as explained by a groundskeeper in this free video on plants.
Grass seed grows into a thick, green lawn, as long as it is given the nutrients it needs to thrive. Watering is key. Too much moisture can wash the seed away or cause it to rot, while too little will dry it out, killing it. Expect grass seed to create a lawn within several weeks of planting.
If you have ever lived in an area where the predominant soil type is red or heavy clay, you know that growing grass can be quite difficult. While most grasses fare better in rich soil or looser sand, there are quite a few varieties that thrive in clay. No matter which grass you choose, however, you must prepare the clay properly before planting. Till the soil at least 6 inches deep, and add fertilizer or lime, depending on the results of your preliminary soil test.
Nevada is a plateau, with general climatic features across the state including ample sunshine, low annual precipitation, dry air and extreme ranges in night and daytime temperatures. Cool-season grasses do well throughout the state, and warm-season grasses, in particular, thrive in Southern Nevada. If you are looking for fast-growing grasses that do well in the state, there are a few choices.
Growing a lawn from seed is a bit more challenging than planting sod, because you must create perfect conditions for the grass seed as well as the resulting tiny grass blades. One of the most important steps in growing grass seeds in Maryland is choosing a grass variety that will thrive in the climate. According to the Stadler Nurseries website, the best time to plant grass seed in Maryland is in late summer and early fall.
Due to the vastly differing landscape, Colorado has USDA hardiness zones 2b through 6a. Cool season grasses grow well in all of Colorado. Mountainous and high elevation areas should focus on cool season grasses, whereas the plains and eastern Colorado area can grow warm and cool season grasses. Choose Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescues, perennial ryegrass and fine fescues for lawns in Colorado. Choose buffalograss and blue grama for plains and areas with little water and care. Kentucky bluegrass is the most common grass planted throughout Colorado.
Rye grass is a popular cool-season turf that grows in numerous lawns in the northern United States. There are two types of rye grass: perennial and annual. Perennial will die back in the late spring as temperatures begin to climb and grow back in the late fall. Annual rye grass will grow for one planting season and is typically grown in areas that have mild winters. Plant rye grass seeds in the late fall to maintain a green yard for the fall and spring months.
Planting grass from seed is cheaper than laying down sod, strips of established grass. However, growing grass from seed takes patience and care. With careful preparation of the area before planting and diligence with the watering, you'll soon have a lush, beautiful lawn. Choosing a grass seed mix that works well in your area will also help you achieve a lasting green. Talk to the people at your local nursery to determine what will grow best in your region.
Fertilizing new grass seed gives the grass the nutrients needed to grow well. When fertilizing new grass seed, be sure to water frequently so that the new plants are receiving everything they need to grow. The best results come with using a fertilizer specific to your soil type and growing location.
According to the University of Kentucky, weeding is a process of removing unwanted plants from an area where desirable plants are growing. Weeds can range from invasive plants to grass or "volunteers," which are plants that may be desirable elsewhere but have scattered seed in an unwanted place. There are several ways to remove these unwanted plants, ranging from cultivating to manual practices to taking preventative measures.
Gardening is a constant process of weeding. Weeds that move into a garden compete with planted crops for water and nutrients. Additionally, weeds provide a home for undesirable pests, such as mosquitoes. One way to cut down on the time spent weeding a garden is to block out weeds with mulch. Mulches--such as black plastic sheeting--block sunlight so that weed seeds can't germinate, and create a barrier in the soil so that weed roots can't become established.
Sod, also known as turf, is grown grass. After grass has grown for about a year, growers scrape the top layer of topsoil off, which includes the root system of the sod. The sod is then rolled and sold to contractors and homeowners, as a faster alternative to seeding.
Monkey grass, also known as mondo grass, is actually a flowering perennial with leaves that look like blades of grass. It is popular with home landscapers because it is low-maintenance and can withstand conditions such as heat and drought. Monkey grass is typically planted as an evergreen ground cover that can trim flower beds and create a lovely border area.
Bermuda grass annoys those who try to keep up the tidy appearance of their zoysia grass. By having two types of grass growing in the yard, the grass textures produce an aesthetically chaotic look. Bermuda grass can be identified by having smooth grass blades with pointed white flowering spikes. On the other hand, zoysia has very sturdy grass blades because of its high silica content. In addition, zoysia grass is available in a variety of textures that include fine to coarse. Remove your Bermuda grass to get back they uniform appearance you are striving to have.
Emerald Zoysia is a variety of the grass used on golf courses and other commercial properties for lush landscaping. While Emerald Zoysia can be a focal point of your landscape, it can also be an eyesore if you do not care for it properly. Emerald Zoysia requires regular care in order to reach its full potential and remain lush and green for years to come.
Crabgrass is the scourge of many neighborhood lawns. A stubborn annual weed, crabgrass is known for its matting pattern and aggressive growth rate. Unless eliminated, crabgrass can choke normal grass and overrun an otherwise healthy lawn.
Bermuda grass is a grass that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, where it is popular for use in sports fields, golf courses, lawns and parks. This grass has a medium to fine texture, is very durable, and forgiving of drought conditions. It does not handle low temperatures, however, and will usually turn brown and stop growing when temperatures stay consistently below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in an area that meets these conditions, you may want to take advantages of all the positive characteristics of Bermuda grass and grow it yourself from seed.
Harvester ants are found mostly in the western United States. The ants live in colonies and never invade houses, preferring instead to establish nests around gardens and vegetation.
Growing your lawn from seed is far less expensive than hauling in sod. Many factors go into your success with a seeded lawn, not the least of which will be your choice of the appropriate seed. You're going to need to do some research to make sure that the seed you choose is the best one for your particular lawn.
You checked on the price of sod to cover the dirt that will become your lawn. The price exceeded expectations so Plan B comes to you: seed the lawn yourself. You have diligently removed all the stones, leveled the dirt where necessary, applied the seeds and watered. Day one passes, then days two and three pass, and still no grass is showing. Makes you wonder how long it will take for your grass to grow.
Planting a lawn from seed takes knowledge, preparation and care. The most common questions are: How long does it take for grass seeds to germinate? How soon is it safe to begin walking on your new lawn and enjoying it in other ways? The rate of growth depends on several factors: the type of grass seed you plant, the climate, the condition of your soil, and the amount and regularity of water you give your young lawn.
Grass seed varietals germinate and produce green shoots and blades at surprisingly different rates. Some fast-germinating seed will produce visible green shoots in as little as four days, while others will take several weeks to a month to show green shoots under similarly ideal environmental conditions. However, even with slower growing seeds, signs of seed germination and growth often are present before you see the green shoots that spell success.
Many homeowners cherish their beautiful green lawns and want to keep them attractive year-round. Lawns require work to keep up, but with a bit of knowledge and a little "sweat equity" you can maintain your lawn with few problems. One of the considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right type of grass seed for your climate zone is how long the various types of grasses take to germinate and after that, how fast they grow into that prized green turf that can make you the envy of your neighborhood.
Homeowners everywhere want the perfect lawn---lush, green grass stretching from the house to the street. Knowing your yard's soil composition, using fertilizer high in phosphorus or compost, and choosing the right grass seed will help you achieve the perfect lawn. Using seed over sod is less expensive and allows you to choose the right grass for your area. Northern lawns do best with cool-season grasses while southern areas need warm-season grasses.
Lemon grass is used in Asian cooking to impart a lemony-citrus taste. A native of India, this herb is known by many names with Lemon grass being the western name. When buying lemon grass seed, make sure you are buying cymbopogon citratus seeds (the Latin name of culinary lemon grass). Lemon grass is not frost hardy, and is considered a tender perennial in most of the United States. Grow lemon grass in large containers in full sun, keep moist, and overwinter in a cool (45 degrees F) room.
Most homeowners are impatient---they want the fastest-growing lawn they can find. Several varieties provide fast cover but considerations like time of year, ground temperature and growing zone can affect the fastest growers.
Crabgrass spreads quickly if it is not treated immediately. All lawns are candidates for having crabgrass. But maintaining your lawn regularly is the best way to keep crabgrass away. Take control over the lawn that is yours and bring back the beauty for all the world to see.
It takes about a month for grass seed to grow if the weather is warm, good compost is used and the grass is watered frequently. Plant grass in the spring or fall with insight from a sustainable gardener in this free video on plants and gardens.
If your lawn is beginning to look a little uneven, or is beginning to show bare patches, it's time you got serious and replanted the grass. You may think that seeding a lawn is only for those who wish to redo the entire lawn, but you can easily repair patches in your lawn by scattering a little grass seed to cover the area, and providing a little care. Before you know it, lush green grass will appear.
Sod is, quite simply, mature lawn. It's also called turf. The people who run sod farms devote a great deal of time and effort to making sure this lawn is healthy, thick and weed-free so that it looks terrific when installed on a customer's land. Sod is commonly grown from either high-quality seed blends or certified hybrid sprigs. A sod farm might grow several types of grass, so landowners can choose which kind best suits their needs. They should take into consideration sun, shade and the amount of use the lawn will receive from children, pets and people playing games.
Reseeding a lawn is very common, especially if the lawn has been neglected or is developing bald spots, which can happen if leaves are left on it through the winter or if animals are on the lawn. Growing grass seed on an existing lawn is easy, but there are some steps you need to take to make sure the seeds do germinate.
Growing grass in a clay pot is a great activity to do with children, because it is simple, the grass grows quickly and children will have fun "cutting" the grass with scissors. Many people grow grass in tiny, 2-inch clay pots to use as place decorations at an Easter table. Alternately, you can grow grass in a large clay pot and place outside on your porch for a fresh, springtime look. Fescue seed works well because it grows fast.
Anyone can toss grass seed out on the lawn and even get some of it to grow. But how do you make grass seed grow enough so that it turns into a lush, thick lawn? It just takes a little dedication, consistent watering, and most importantly, preparing the soil.
If you're trying to kill crabgrass, prevention is key. Once it has grown to a certain length, the only natural way to kill it is to uproot it by hand. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent and kill crabgrass naturally before it can get a foothold in your lawn.
Grass can be cultivated in hard-to-grow areas, if you learn some tricks and tips, starting with deciding whether to use seed, sod, or plugs.
There is a tremendous temperature difference between winter months and summer months in Arizona, and because of this difference it is necessary to grow two types of grass in order to maintain a luxurious green lawn year-round.During the hot summer months you'll grow a beautiful Bermuda lawn, while in the winter you'll boast about your luxurious Rye grass lawn.
Bermuda grass is the most common grass used on golf courses today. It forms a thick grassbed and it is very resistant to wear and tear. It grows low to the ground, meaning you'll have to mow less. Although some see Bermuda grass as a threat to lawns, Bermuda lawns are sought after by others. It was once only available as sod, but now many companies offer Bermuda seeds so you can grow it from scratch.
Letting grass grow to seed is a simple way to rejuvenate your lawn. Allowing your grass to re-seed itself will allow it to grow thicker and richer in the next growing season--with no extra effort on your part.
