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Onions grow in a variety of climates and soil conditions, which makes them a popular choice for both yard and container gardens. In most climates, they can be planted in early spring and harvested in late summer. Visit your nursery or garden center to discuss the best onion varieties for your soil and weather conditions.
Camellias are popular evergreen shrubs or trees that produce brightly colored flowers. Gardeners are not the only ones who like camellia plants, however: Aphids infest camellias to suck out sap from their foliage. Because aphids produce up to 80 offspring in a week during their peak season, gardeners can have a major infestation that will result in major health problems for the camellia if left untreated.
Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus), also called black cosmos, are perennials that grow between 2 and 3 feet tall. Also used as an annual, chocolate cosmos features an unusual appearance, attracts butterflies and has dark-green foliage. Chocolate cosmos bloom during June through September, producing flowers that have a faint scent resembling that of chocolate. The flowers are oxblood-red. Cosmos atrosanguineus develops from tubers, a fact that comes into play in those locations in which the plant is not able to tolerate the cold associated with winter.
Strawberries are often the first fruit grown by beginning gardeners as they are hardy, productive and reproduce rapidly. Strawberries transplant well, which is why most strawberries that are available commercially are the result of transplanted runners. Using transplants speeds fruit production, and taking those transplants from runners results in a more uniform crop.
The chrysanthemum genus has about 100 species, some of which gardeners cultivate for their large, showy blossoms. Growers have propagated ornamental species of chrysanthemums for many years and created numerous varieties for home gardeners to choose from. The name chrysanthemum comes from combining the Greek words for gold ("chrysos") and flower ("anthos").
Mesquite is an invasive pest in many areas, and the rugged, stubborn shrubs can be difficult to eradicate. Spraying the foliage with a systemic herbicide is one method for eliminating mesquite in the yard. Although not an instant cure, foliar herbicides applied in proper conditions can help you win the battle against this pesky plant.
Dandelions are broadleaf perennial weeds that compete with grass and ornamental plants for the soil's nutrients. Because dandelions thrive in full sunlight and can survive shady environments, gardeners may find that they have dandelions popping up within the lawn and flowerbeds. Kill dandelions using the correct pre-emergent and post-emergent weed killers.
Phosphorus is one of the three main elements plants need from soil to grow normally. Phosphorus needs to reach plants in steady streams for a plant to reach its full potential. Commercially available, phosphorus-rich fertilizers can provide exactly what your plant needs. However, some fertilizers contain significant amounts of other elements that may prove too much for your plant. Read the manufacturer's directions thoroughly before applying any fertilizer.
Cleo the Pretty Pyramid is an Ultra Rare Worldies group monster pet, or Moshling, found on the virtual pet monster site "Moshi Monsters." She is number 80 of all collectible Moshlings. As with most Moshlings, Cleo will come to your monster if you simply grow plants she likes in your monster's Moshling Garden. As Cleo is Ultra Rare, the plants you grow are also extremely special plants with seeds only found at the Super Seeds shed at The Port. You must have a paid Moshi Member account to access these seeds.
Pentas are attractive and easy-care flowers that can brighten gardens all summer long. These plants come in a variety of sizes and colors for every garden design. Pentas are natives of Africa, with dark-green, lance-shaped leaves that grow in clumped stems. Flowers are star-shaped and set at the tops of stems. Garden centers and seed companies offer many types of pentas for home garden growing.
If you have an area of the garden that has heavy, clay soil and remains moist most of the time, plant pink turtleheads. Also known as Chelone, these members of the figwort family thrive in wet, boggy soils. Pink turtlehead blooms in summer through fall with racemes that look a bit like asparagus spears before they open. Grow pink turtlehead within zones 3a through 8a on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Division and trimming is best carried out in spring but the next best ideal time is in fall.
The hibiscus is more than just a pretty flower. According to the American Hibiscus Society, the tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is one of the most useful shrubs throughout southeastern Asia, east Africa, the Pacific Islands of its origin and beyond. The hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) is of equal importance in the cooler climates farther north. Both are members of the mallow family.
Pittosporum is a genus of flowering shrub with more than 200 members. They are often planted as landscape ornamentals and grow large clusters of flowers that smell so strongly of orange blossoms, they'll fill the yard with their fragrance. And they grow quickly. At maturity a pittosporum will reach 8 to 12 feet in height. But they respond well to pruning and can be cut back to a much smaller shrub. However, annual severe cut backs may sacrifice some of the pittosporum's blooms every season. If you want a much smaller bush, consider planting one of the many dwarf varieties…
Having the right tool can make yard work much easier. Just as using a flat-head screwdriver can sometimes be used to screw in a Phillips head screw, you can use a garden rake to pick up leaves. But it won't work easily or very well. To get a rake to pick up leaves, buy a lawn or leaf rake.
Garden beets feature edible greens and red roots that can be eaten raw or cooked. Also known as the table beet, red beet or blood turnip, the beet is a popular garden vegetable in the United States. Their popularity stems from their easy growth and full edibility. Although considered by many to be a red vegetable, the beet is actually available in an array of colors, including yellow and white.
Grass in the form of a lawn is ideal as a weed reducer, as a wildfire barrier and as a pleasant surface for outdoor activities. When grasses grow where you don't want them, though, they are essentially nuisance weeds, to be eliminated. Control methods depend on whether the weed grass has infiltrated your lawn, your ornamental plantings such as garden beds, or your vegetable garden.
Grub hoes are light to moderate weight hoes used for chopping through sod and roots. Clearing a garden spot, digging trenches, killing weeds and roots, removing root pieces above ground and moving rocks are common uses for grub hoes. Blades are available in several widths and shapes.
A well-maintained lawn is lush, green and healthy. An important part of lawn maintenance is proper fertilization, and the most important nutrient is nitrogen. The right amount of nitrogen promotes a healthy lawn, but under- or over-application of nitrogen causes damage and disasters, both to your lawn and the environment. Learn the proper amounts of nitrogen to apply to your lawn, create an application schedule and stick to it for a beautiful lawn that the neighbors will envy.
A power rake is a gas-powered rotating tool used to remove thick thatch, dead grass and unwanted moss from yards. Typically, power rakes are employed once a year at the beginning of the grass' growing season. However, yards that have thick thatch layers (over 1 to 1 1/2 inches) have to incorporate power rakes into the lawn maintenance routine twice a year, according to Kansas State University.
Ladybirds -- also called ladybugs or lady beetles -- are a small insect that features a red or orange body with black spots. Ladybirds enjoy snacking on aphids and other soft body insects that can wreck havoc in your garden. This makes ladybirds beneficial for gardens of all sizes. Attract ladybirds to your garden and lawn naturally by adding plants that ladybirds prefer.
Pesticide resistance is building in the insect world. More than 500 species of insects and mites no longer succumb to common pesticides, and at least 17 species are resistant to all major insecticide classes, according to a study from North Carolina State University. Pesticide resistance develops when insects are exposed to a chemical, and pests that survive the onslaught pass on resistant genes. Controlling resistant insects may require a variety of methods.
Frankly, this article may make you wonder why you can't just head out and purchase a hoe. The tools are affordable at hardware stores and home improvement warehouses. That is not the point here though. The goal here is to do something good for the environment by making a hoe from parts that you may already have at home. This project requires a bit of time and dedication to the cause, but the end result will be solid and reliable.
Chrysanthemums, also called mums, are flowering herbs that belong to the Aster family. The chrysanthemums available in the market are diverse. You can choose from over 30 species and several varieties within each species. All chrysanthemum flower petals are edible and are often an ingredient in tea; however, only the species Chrysanthemum coronarium has edible greens.
Several cultivars of the Pittosporum tobira species have been bred with dwarf characteristics, including "Wheeler's Dwarf" and "MoJo." These cultivars not only grow smaller than the species, maxing out at 3 feet or so in height, they also grow more slowly. As broad-leaf evergreens, pruning requirements for proper growth and bloom are negligible but can easily be tolerated when necessary. Dwarf Pittosporum cultivars are ideal for low foundation plantings, informal hedging, lining walkways and for use in beds and as a tall ground cover.
French red pumpkins, Rouge vif d'Etampes, are deep red-orange squashes with a squat shape. Also known as the Cinderella pumpkin, in reference to Cinderella's coach, they are grown both for their ornamental value for fall decorating and for their sweet, orange flesh for baking. Legend says the Pilgrims served them at the second Thanksgiving dinner in the New World. The fruits reach up to 40 pounds, yielding two pumpkins per plant.
Crops are agricultural produce or plants, such as vegetables, grain and fruit, cultivated and grown in a group. They provide a necessary food source for people and animals and are the means by which many farmers support themselves. Anyone who grows crops knows that numerous types of animal pests can damage and destroy a harvest, whether it's on acres of farmland or simply in a backyard garden.
There are several varieties of variegated pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira), an evergreen shrub with a mounded growth habit also called Japanese cheesewood. The shrub grows 8 to 12 feet high with a 12- to 18-foot spread. Most variegated varieties have light green foliage with cream-colored edges. Without heavy pruning, pittosporums bear orange-blossom-scented flowers in the spring. This plant usually is pruned into a rounded shape, although tree forms are attractive as well. Prune the shrub when it finishes flowering.
One of the oldest cultivating tools, a hoe has many practical garden uses, including tilling, raking, mixing and mounding soil around plants. Generally speaking, hoes feature a long handle like a rake or shovel and a thin blade. By pulling or pushing the blade, a user can cut through soil and manipulate it without having to get on the ground. Variations on the basic form allow for different techniques and applications.
For the many tasks associated with lawn care and work, a number of tools can help get the job done. A rake comes in many types for lightweight and heavy-duty lawn work. The tines on a rake will vary by material and length. Vary your inventory of rakes, and choose the best type depending on the surface area and task at hand.
Also called ladybugs, ladybirds have a voracious appetite for common garden pests. One of these insects can eat 40 to 50 aphids daily. Ladybirds also help rid your garden and lawn of mites, mealybugs, leaf hoppers and scales, along with their eggs. Ladybirds do not eat plants, but they do eat their nectar. For natural pest control in your garden, obtain a case of captive ladybirds from your local nursery. Since they are likely to fly away, prepare a hospitable environment for them and release them in a manner that encourages them to stay.
Most sedum plants are perennials and are a good bet for the beginning gardener. Also called stonecrop, sedum grow and bloom with minimal care and thrive in drought conditions. Varieties include tall erect sedum like "Autumn Joy" and "Purple Emperor." Low-growing types include "Blue Carpet," "Cape Blanco," and "Purpureum."
Although most home and garden centers carry hoes for a fairly reasonable price, if you have some leftover parts from tools that have worn out, you can make a hoe from an old shovel or from other garden relics. In a couple of hours, you can turn what had been headed for the city dump into a useful tool for your flower beds and garden.
Vigorous, healthy lawns start with adequate cultural practices that include the use of fertilizers. Fertilization is the most important cultural care practice that promotes the health and quality of grass, as cited by the Ohio State University Extension. Among all the fertilizer components, nitrogen tops the list as most important. The nutrient will work best when applied at the right time.
Dogs are often referred to as man's best friend. It is true that many, perhaps most dogs, are friendly and well behaved. Others, however, can be a neighborhood problem. Some dogs can damage property or even threaten the general safety of people the it encounters. If you find yourself having to deal with a nuisance dog, there are a number of steps you can take to repel the animal so that you and your property will remain safe.
Small, decorative pumpkins can serve as ornaments for your fall decor. Lil' Tiger Stripe and Tiger Stripe Pumpkin are cultivars of miniature pumpkins that produce fruits with yellow stripes over creamy backgrounds. While fresh food markets and grocery stores often stock these during the late fall, you can grow them in your own garden.
Select plants and flowers for gardens that flower all season long or add year-round interest to get the maximum amount of enjoyment from your landscape. There are flowers that will bloom, even in cold climates, every month of the year. Plants that have winter berries, colorful bark or interesting seed pods liven up the winter garden. Shrubs and trees create the bones of the garden and offer wildlife a place to rest or build their nests.
"Chuckles," a hybrid shrub rose, bears heavy loads of deep pink single blossoms with yellow eyes and white centers. As a shrub, Chuckles does well in mass plantings or hedgerows, producing large clusters of flowers that bloom repeatedly throughout the summer. Though a relatively high-maintenance rose, requiring regular care, Chuckles is hardy up to zone 4a and in the right climate makes a colorful addition to your flower garden.
Also called pill bugs and sow bugs, woodlice live in damp, cool areas, and they enter houses to find optimal environments. Although you may find them under sinks and in damp basements, these small crustaceans prefer outdoor locations, such as under rocks, inside logs and in compost piles, if the weather is ideal. Some pest control companies do not service for woodlice, but there is a variety of solutions get rid of these harmless animals, no matter the severity of the infestation.
A spot in your garden that stays moist during the growing season provides the perfect conditions for plants that like wet feet. Contrast large-leaved plants, such as the giant dinosaur plant (Gunnera manicata), Darmera, mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) and ornamental rhubarb (Rheum spp.) with the airy, upright texture of bog-loving grasses. Groundcovers that like the wet will fill in quickly.
Foliage, in its most common use, refers collectively to the leaves of a plant. A foliage plant is cultivated mainly for its ornamental or attractive leaves rather than its flowers. Foliage plants often are cultivated to showcase a variety of unique or exotic leaf shapes, textures and colors that help define their status.
Heliotrope is the name of a plant and a stone, which are used for natural healing as well as metaphysical purposes. They have several shared properties including the basis of their names, as well as properties unique to each. While the stone can be found in naturalist shops and pharmacies as well as jewelry dealers, the plant can be grown in many gardens for quick access.
Many plants serve as hosts to butterflies, welcoming the female butterfly to lay her eggs on the plant in return for help fertilizing the flowers. But this is a risky bargain, as inviting too many butterflies to feast may mean the defoliation of the entire plant. For this reason, the passion flower vine foliage is hospitable to only select species of butterflies, such as the Heliconius.
Trees offer many benefits in the landscape. Aside from the aesthetic value, some trees have fragrant blossoms, bark or foliage. Mature trees provide shade and privacy and increase property value by up to 10 percent. Trees help reduce soil erosion and runoff, benefiting the environment. Research at Texas A&M University suggests that even short exposures to trees can lower blood pressure and reduce stress in people.
Heliotrope is a flowering plant that is a member of the Boraginaceae family of plants. The Heliotropium genus contains several species, some of which are poisonous to pets, wildlife and livestock. Certain methods of control can help reduce the growth of the toxic varieties, including Heliotropium europaeum, Heliotropium arborescens and Heliotropium amlexicaule. Poisonous varieties contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that, when consumed by some animals, can lead to weight loss, depression, aggression and death.
Many homeowners deem garden sheds necessary for housing lawnmowers and various garden implements, but they can sometimes be eyesores that detract from the appearance of the garden. Older sheds in particular can become rundown, lending an unkempt appearance to the entire yard. There are several different ways that you can hide a small shed. Some are permanent while others will provide cover during the summer months only. You will need to decide which method of screening the shed suits your individual landscaping needs.
A two-pronged hoe is a garden tool designed for weeding and working the soil around plants and shrubs. It has a single, narrow blade on one side and two prongs on the other, somewhat like the end of a fork. These two elements are attached to a long wooden or metal pole held by the gardener. A two-prong hoe has many different functions, and it is not difficult to use.
Mostly originating from Southeast Asia and Japan, pittosporums are hardy, easy-to-grow evergreen shrubs or small trees commonly used as foundation plantings or hedges. The most popular variety is the Japanese pittosporum Pittosporum tobiara. Most varieties grow 8 to 12 feet tall and 12 to 18 feet wide, producing fragrant, five-petal blooms and deep green, thick, glossy foliage. Dwarf varieties that mature at 3 to 4 feet are also available, thus providing gardeners varied choice according to the available space. Provide pittosporums basic care so the plants thrive and remain healthy.
Bright orange pumpkins are a sure sign that autumn has arrived. Often used for decorations, pies or jack-o-lanterns, this versatile fruit is usually round, and often lumpy. With a little planning, you can grow pumpkins into square shapes, adding a modern twist to these autumn favorites.
Roses are a popular ornamental landscape plant. They come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes, making it possible to choose the right rose for just about any situation. Many varieties are easy to grow and require relatively little maintenance. These showy flowers sometimes suffer from insects pests and diseases, however. Some can cause dark or black spotting on your rose bush's leaves and petals.
To plant pumpkins, you dig a shallow hole in the soil, place a few pumpkin seeds in the ground, cover the seeds and then patiently wait. After a few days of watering, you should start to see growth. Familiarizing yourself with the various states of pumpkin growth -- vine, bloom and then gourd -- is the best way to recognize if your pumpkins are growing correctly.
Woodlice are small crustaceans that generally prefer to live in the outdoors, in dark and damp conditions, so you should be wary when you start to find them in your home. Although not actually dangerous, woodlice in the home are indicative that you are living in unhygienic conditions or that you have serious wood fatigue caused by damp conditions. You should look to remove the woodlice, and also treat the factors causing the woodlice to become attracted to your home.
Native to the tropical highlands of Peru, the common heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens) also has a colloquial name of cherry pie. Although a herbaceous perennial subshrub, common heliotrope tolerates neither frosty cold nor excessive heat. Therefore, it's most often grown as a short-term flower, much like an annual. Gardeners let the weather dictate how long the plant looks good and flowers in their climate. The cultivar Marine is a more compact-growing selection with exceptionally dark blue-violet blossoms.
Pittosporum grows up to 12 feet in height with lush, fairly dense green foliage. It can spread up to 18 feet wide. However, pruning your pittosporum keeps it manageable and compact. The plant handles pruning well. Prune in February. This reduces the chance of injury or disease by pruning in early winter. It also helps prevent damaging buds or new shoots at the beginning of spring. The compact nature of the leaves means you can use hand shears or even electric shears to trim the plant back.
Field pumpkins are basically grown in the same way that you might grow just a few pumpkin plants in your home garden, just in a larger quantity. If the field is large, it will be necessary to use a rototiller or tractor plow to break up the soil. Although most pumpkin seeds are bred for a long growing season, 75 to 100 days, they can be started indoors three to four weeks before the last frost.
Potatoes are one of the most commonly grown vegetables in the world. They originated in Peru and the high Andes mountains, but today potatoes are grown everywhere. Because they can be prepared in several ways, such as mashed, stuffed, sliced, baked or fried, they are a handy vegetable to have in your garden.
Choosing the flowers for a casual, rural garden is as easy as taking a walk in the country. You want only the fragrance reminiscent of days long gone, the color of the seasons, and beauty in flower form to make your country garden a showpiece. Choosing flowers native to your area will keep your garden natural, and adding a both annuals and perennials will keep the color flowing all year.
Beets are a delicious, nutritious root vegetable grown for the thick, round juicy red roots and leafy greens. They are eaten raw, pickled, juiced, steamed and boiled. Beets are rich sources of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and C, as well a folic acid, potassium and fiber; and their greens are a good source of iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and copper. Although the most familiar beet is round and burgundy, a wide variety of beets include different colors, shapes and sizes.
The winter squash harvest comes late in the season. Winter squash have hard exterior skin that makes them well-suited for winter storage. The sweet flesh is ideal for pies, stew and winter vegetable dishes. Kabocha pumpkin, also called Japanese pumpkin, is very sweet and dense, according to Purdue University. Plant kabocha pumpkin vines in late spring and early summer to prepare the pantry for winter's cold days. Some varieties to try are Uchiki Kuri, Delica, Crown Prince and Sweet Mama.
The Japanese pumpkin, or kabocha, is a small, sweet pumpkin that rarely reaches over 6 pounds. Unlike its orange Jack 'O Lantern cousins, the Japanese kobocha is not orange. Rather, it features dusty white skin with pale green and very pale orange stripes. You can certainly use these little pumpkins to make pies and harvest their seeds for roasting. However, some enjoy drying them as additions to autumn gourd decorations. The choice is yours, especially if you take the initiative to grow them yourself.
Choosing the right plants and flowers for different gardens is going to depend on the types of gardens you have in mind. Not all species of flowers, shrubs, trees and plants are ideal for all gardens or create the proper "look." Before you commit to purchasing any particular plant, you should first choose the types of gardens you desire. Once you've decided, it will make choosing appropriate plants and flowers that much easier.
Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin, is a deep green, bumpy skinned squash with white stripes, similar in shape to the traditional pumpkin. In Thailand, the flavorful squash is known as fak thong. Commonly, the Japanese pumpkin reaches a mature weight of 2 to 3 lbs., but it may grow to weigh up to 8 lbs. The flesh of Kabocha is a deep orange and is similar in taste and texture to a butternut squash. Kabocha squash is available at Asian markets and specialty produce vendors under the variety brand names Akazukin, Ebisu, Kurokawa and Miyako.
Corn developed from a wild grass called teosinte around 7,000 years ago. The cultivation of corn spread into the Southwestern United States and Peru before being introduced to eastern North America by the migrating Woodland Indians about 1,000 years age. Corn, also called maize, became a staple food crop of the Indians living all over North and South America. The ancient farmers cultivated their corn crops with stone-bladed hoes. A successful corn crop depends on proper weed control by hoeing or other means.
The modern hoe is designed to cut weeds off at soil level. Properly used, it does not disturb the roots of your garden plants. Using a hoe also saves your back, as you don't have to bend over to ground level in order to get rid of an undesirable plant. Like all truly effective tools, they make the job easier while requiring less effort to achieve the end result.
Pumpkins are tasty and nutritious, and come October, they make great jack-o'-lanterns. Growing your own pumpkins from seed is not terribly difficult; however, you must be cautious with planting times, as pumpkins cannot withstand frost. If you live in an area with short summers, germinate the seeds indoors so you'll be ready to plant them in the garden after the chance of frost has passed. For the best results, amend the soil with compost or manure in late fall, so that it is rich and ready for action come spring.
Nitrogen is an essential macronutrient that is present in all living things and permits metabolic processes. In plants, nitrogen is necessary for photosynthesis, the conversion of sunlight into energy. Soil has a natural supply of nitrogen from decomposing matter, rainfall and the atmosphere. However, this amount is usually insufficient to permit plant growth in the regions colonized by people. To supplement natural levels of nitrogen, fertilizer is added to the soil. Fertilizer should only be used to maintain homeostasis and ensure adequate nutrients are present; a soil analysis is the only way to tell if nitrogen is needed. Contact a…
Daisy Mountain is a place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy solitude while connecting with nature. The area surrounding this mountain has a lot to offer visitors whether young or old.
If you have a bare trellis or want to spruce up a fence in the backyard, planting a vine can be just the thing. Vine plants can cover a large area with their numerous leaves and flashy flowers. Some species of flowering vines produce sweet-smelling white flowers that provide a charming addition to your landscape.
Heliotropium arborescens or heliotropes are flowering plants that grow between 18 and 36 inches tall. They produce showy purple, blue or white blossoms depending on the variety. Heliotropes prefer full sunlight, nutrient-rich soil and ample water. They are generally hardy and suffer from few serious pests, according to Cheryll Greenwood Kinsley at the Washington State University Whatcom County Extension, but several kinds of bugs occasionally feed on the leaves and sap.
Along with azaleas, rhododendrons are an old-fashioned variety of flowering shrub. These two plants are members of the same family. Azalea is the common term for native deciduous species, while rhododendron is the common term for species with large, leathery leaves that stay green all year long. Regular pruning plays an important role in maintaining the health and beauty of these plants.
Rhododendrons are colorful and beautiful plants used to frame a home and anchor shrubbery borders. Once the plant is established, it will flower annually in the spring or summer. Colors can range from white to vivid pinks, purples, reds and yellows. Knowing when and how to trim the plant is key to establishing a rhododendron that produces years and even decades of dependable bloom and evergreen foliage that complements your overall landscape design.
Composting is common among garden owners as the material in compost promotes healthy plant development and growth. Using red worms to create organic compost is known as vermicomposting, and it is a cost-effective way to keep your garden healthy and active without adding chemicals or other non-organic items.
Whether the job entails cleaning up leaves, aerating gardens or raking gravel, nobody looks forward to raking the lawn. Experienced green thumbs and landscapers know that a good rake can make or break the job, but home and garden stores sometimes offer an overwhelming variety of options. Though the title of "best" lawn rake ultimately boils down to the needs and budget of each gardener, professional opinions place a few rakes at the top of the heap.
Red worms are commonly used for composting, which is a process of assisting the natural breakdown of organic material such as leaves and food waste. Red worms can be used in composting pails or bins, or in the garden if careful planning is used. Red worms are 2 to 3 inches in length and tend to be prolific breeders.
Rhododendrons produce evergreen foliage and spring flowers on shrubby growth. The plants require only minimal pruning to maintain their health and shape, so there is rarely a need to bring out the pruning shears. If basic pruning to encourage compact growth is performed each year, the rhododendron may never require a severe pruning.
Adding flowering white trees to a landscaping plan adds a splash of color to spring displays. There are several varieties of ornamental tree that produce bountiful white flowers found throughout North America. Southern magnolia, flowering dogwood, southern catalpa and southern crab apple are common ornamental species valued for their springtime displays of white flowers.
If the hibiscus flower in your home garden is white, you are either dealing with a little confusion about hibiscus varieties or the hibiscus is diseased. Fortunately, neither of these issues is worthy of too much concern. Provide consistent care for vigorous hibiscus plants to avoid problems. Grow hibiscus plants in full sun and well-drained soil. Act quickly if you notice disease symptoms to prevent severe damage.
In an established garden, large woody shrubs like rhododendrons can become leggy, malformed and unsightly over a few decades. Improper lighting or lack of maintenance lead to some dead limbs, poor flowering and diminished vigor. Fortunately, rhodododendrons respond well and regrow nicely when severely pruned back. Prune as early as spring as possible to allow pruning wounds to heal and the plant to grow some and harden off before winter sets in.
Red worms are good composting worms and are often used to process household scraps and other plant matter. They do their best composting work when placed in bins and fed on a regular basis. Red worms are surface feeders and can consume a large amount of plant matter every day. For gardeners who wish to avoid the extra step of keeping worms in a bin to make compost, it is possible to place red worms directly into the garden. However, there are some things to consider.
Flying insects can be an extreme annoyance in your gardens or lawns, particularly during the warmer months when they're constantly propagating. These pests, such as mosquitoes, gnats or Japanese beetles, can bite and infest your garden, making it a difficult place to enjoy with friends or family. Numerous options are available for eradicating these flying pests, all of them with unique advantages and disadvantages.
Nitrogen is one of three important nutrients that grass needs to grow properly. Along with phosphorous, which has the chemical symbol P, and potassium, with the symbol K, nitrogen is commonly listed first in the analysis found on a bag of fertilizer -- N-P-K. Nitrogen is important and should be added periodically to help make sure grass is healthy and green. Nitrogen application should be done so that grass receives the greatest benefit and excess nitrogen does not leach and find its way into nearby water sources where increased algae growth can result.
Successful grafting occurs when the tissue layer of the rootstock tree (called the vascular cambium layer) and the scion branch grow together. The cambium produces conductive tissue for the actively growing tree. It also initiates callus tissue at the graft and bud unions. The cambium layers must be aligned and held in place to grow new tissue to connect the two parts. The rootstock is the part of the tree that produces the root system. The scion is a piece of detached twig or shoot that is grafted onto the rootstock.
A variety of factors go into creating soil, and this variety gives us differing types and colors, all of which determines the overall nutrient content and how well some plants may grow. Soil is a thin layer of clay, sand, minerals and other matter that sits on the surface of the Earth. It is one of the prime factors in determining the success of a garden or any other planting area.
Identifying a yellow daisy can present a challenge. Yellow daisies are Compositae -- or Asteraceae -- plants, belonging to an enormous plant family. More than 20,000 species of Compositae plants grow around the globe. Daisies' composite flower heads, with "ray" petals surrounding centers of tiny "disks," distinguishing them from plants of other families. Many daisies, however, have nearly identical blooms. Having a yellow daisy narrows your search. Examining its other traits will narrow it even more.
Heliotropium arborescens, the summer annual that blooms in shades of purple and blue, is resistant to many diseases including fungus. Yet, common heliotrope or heliotropium europaeum can be a noxious weed and can be kept under control by introducing a rust fungus. And garden heliotrope , also known as valerian, is susceptible to white mold.
Perennials are plants that grow back or bloom every year. Many types of perennials can live more than three years in the garden. Perennials differ in shape, color and size. Utilize these differences to plant the right perennial for your specific needs and wants. Not all perennials can grow back in all areas of the country. Determine your U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zone and choose perennials compatible in that zone.
Deer prefer to browse on moist, tender and well-fertilized plants, characteristics that can apply to many common garden and landscape plants. Though some species tend to resist deer, other plants are especially attractive. Pittosporum is such a plant.
A weeding hoe (sometimes called a garden hoe or just a hoe) is a hand-held tool used to remove weeds. Like many gardening tools, there are several different types to choose from.
Country gardens originated as far back 16th-century Europe. They surrounded cottages and other dwellings, giving people outdoor living spaces to enjoy. Given such aesthetics, it is no wonder the country garden concept accompanied settlers to America, including those in New England. A New England country garden reflects its European counterpart and may be planted in many areas of the country, not just New England. To capture the country garden feel, plan accordingly and choose plants and hardscape features wisely.
If you like red camellias but cannot afford to buy them fresh regularly, consider purchasing a bunch of artificial blooms and incorporating them into your home decor. Red camellias can be used throughout the year to brighten a space while adding elegance. Best of all, you save money by not splurging on fresh flowers.
Perennials grow and flower for many years, making them a nice balance to annuals in home gardens. A couple types of white hopping insects can damage the health and vigor of perennial plants.
A rake is an essential tool for home gardening and lawn maintenance. Rakes come in all shapes and sizes for many different purposes. Choosing the right rake for a particular chore can help make your gardening efforts more efficient.
Soil is literally the foundation of your garden, the medium into which the plant grows and from which it obtains the nutrients it needs to thrive. Many plants have a fondness for one type of soil or another and woe to the gardener that ignores that preference. Scientists have a complex system of describing soils but gardeners generally classify them according to the size of the particles that make up the bulk of that soil.
Wooden benches in hidden alcoves, fish ponds and roses epitomize country gardens, which originated in England and Europe. A country garden can be created in plots ranging in size from a small courtyard to large, rambling acreage. English and French country gardens are the most popular in the United States, and homeowners often spend large sums of money for professional designs.
Roses are deciduous woody perennial plants native to Central Asia. They are grown around the world for their attractive blossoms. Roses are available in a wide variety of forms, cultivars and colors.
Slugs can be a slimy, plant-consuming nuisance if you do not properly treat your garden. Simple and effective methods are available to kill off the slug population of your flower or vegetable garden.
Many homeowners and gardeners choose to plant and cultivate flowering vines, which tend to attract birds and butterflies with their colorful blooms. Some flowering vines also provide sweet scents that emit a pleasant fragrance throughout the garden. If you are trying to decide which type of fragrant, flowering vine to plant on your fence, trellis or patio wall, you have several varieties from which to choose.
Potato varieties vary, providing two different crops--early potatoes and late potatoes. Harvest early potatoes in the summer, and late potatoes in the fall; the latter are suitable for storage. In frost-free regions, only one crop is grown. About two months after planting, when the blossoms appear, the potatoes are usually ready for harvesting. It's the tubers you want, not the entire plants. Since the tubers are under the soil, you'll need to dig around to find selections the size you want, which will depend on the variety of potato you have planted.
While insecticides may be helpful in managing insects that damage gardens and crops, pests may develop resistance to them. Over time, evolution by natural selection causes some species of insects to become insensitive to insecticides used against previous generations.
Imidacloprid is a patented chemical used as an insecticide in over 100 countries. Created by Bayer CropScience, imidacloprid products are sold for professional and consumer use. The chemical is effective on a wide range of insects found in home gardens.
Legumes comprise a class of plant that includes many staple edibles. Some of the most commonly grown legumes are dry beans, such as black-eyed peas, cowpeas, pinto beans and kidney beans; garden, or English, peas; and green beans, also known as snap beans. Each type of legume has its own susceptibilities to a number of diseases and pests; nonetheless, there are a typical problems that regularly affect legumes, generally.
According to Purdue University, weeds are plants that grow where they are not wanted. Weeding is the act of removing weeds from where they are growing. People generally perform weeding to minimize weeds in the garden, minimizing competition for resources between them and desirable plants.
Also called passionflower, the passion vine (Passiflora spp.) is a tropical vine native to South America. The vine is cultivated in warm climates as an ornamental. Though beautiful, the plant can cause problems with its aggressive growth and its tendency to attract caterpillars.
Versatile junipers may be grown as ground cover, upright shrubs or small trees. The evergreen foliage is a favorite of many gardeners, and junipers will help make the garden attractive throughout the round. Bright green, blue, silver, gray and yellow juniper species are available. Juniper foliage changes color in winter and the leaves---or needles---stay on the plant even in the cold. Junipers are not immune to to the effects of winter weather, however, and may suffer snow damage.
Herbicides are pesticides that kills plant life. Homeowners frequently use herbicides to control weeds in their lawn and garden. Herbicides belong to groups depending on when you should apply them, the type of plant they kill and the way they kill the plant. You should consider all of these factors before choosing an herbicide for your lawn or garden.
Using plows is an ancient method of turning up soil before planting seeds. Garden sizes range from large to small and can require different types of utensils. Since, every gardener has unique needs and skill sets, it's best to invest time to find the appropriate gardening tools that reflect them.
Creating a miniature woodland feel for an indoor garden, such as in a terrarium, is a simple way to bring the great outdoors inside. Any gardener can use a number of types of plants to create a realistic miniature woodland in a terrarium or another small garden setting.
Many chemicals commonly used in lawn, garden, and agricultural maintenance have varying degrees of toxicity and hazards. Although when properly used these chemicals may pose minimal risks, even chemicals with low human toxicity can have a negative impact thousands of miles away on other life forms. When using these chemicals, be sure to carefully follow labeling instructions both for your safety and to help reduce environmental impacts.
Shrubs and hedges can make natural borders for your home. While many hedges are used to create privacy or even security, smaller shrubs can be used to enhance the landscape or provide a welcoming entrance. The best types of small shrubs to use come from the wide-spreading Juniper and more compact Dwarf species.
The hoe is a popular and versatile gardening tool that is used to remove weeds, dig trenches, till soil and compact the earth. Several types of hoes exist to maintain garden areas. These include the standard, Warren, Korean, grub, collinear, oscillating, half-moon, diamond, loop and circle hoes. Choosing the right hoe for your garden projects can make maintenance and planting easier. It also keeps your garden free of troublesome and unattractive weeds.
Coastal areas of many different countries use seaweed that washes up onshore as sources of agricultural soil enrichment. Many different species of seaweed are involved. Fresh seaweed is used close to the coast since it is hard to transport. Some are dried for later use, and some are burned for the ash. Seaweed extracts or seaweed meal are produced for commercial distribution. Seaweed adds organic material to the soil along with fertilizer.
Fill dirt has a number of uses, including leveling a yard, preparing a garden for growing, landscaping, or filling in a construction area, according to Tons of Dirt. Fill dirt can vary considerably. Its use depends to a large extent on how much organic matter, rock, and other ingredients it contains.
Blackberries are a type of bramble that grows with or without thorns. These plants are fairly low maintenance and ideal for home gardeners. The thorny variety grows erect and needs minimal support, while the thornless varieties often have a trailing growth pattern and need significant support. These plants require full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. Blackberries grow throughout Pennsylvania.
Plant nurseries are eligible for a variety of grants---depending on the goals of the organization in question. Many awards are given annually---from private corporations, municipalities, universities, non-governmental agencies and federal initiatives---that support gardeners, farmers, educators and students who are interested in maintaining gardens and nurseries. Grants are typically regional, or promote a specific cause and type of research.
Oxalis is also known as a broadleaf woodsorrel and is capable of growing on all continents of the world. It is especially prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Though oxalis can be aesthetically pleasing and contains medicinal value, it can become invasive if not properly controlled.
Tuscan-inspired gardens evoke images of clear blue skies and warm, sunny days. Planting a garden inspired by Tuscany is as easy as choosing a few select plant varieties that are commonly grown in the region. Grown for their usefulness and beauty, the plants found in Tuscan gardens blur the line between utility and visual appeal.
Voles are small rodents most similar to common mice and often referred to as meadow mice or field mice. Voles are plant eaters and because of their habit to eat the bark of young trees and plants, they are considered to be pests. Their girdling often destroys small plants and damages big ones. So if you noticed that your backyard or garden is being attacked by voles, you may want to find out what is the most efficient and effective way to get rid of them.
Daisies originated in Europe but have been grown in England and America since the 1600s. Back then, all daisies were white with yellow centers. Through a great deal of hybridization and cultivation, today's daisies are available in nearly any height, width, bloom color and growth habit imaginable. Knowing the names and characteristics of four of the more desirable types of daisies available today will be helpful in determining which kinds to plant in your garden.
For growing grass, nitrogen fertilizer can be the plant equivalent of an energy drink. Nitrogen provides the basis of protein for plants, enabling plants to perform photosynthesis and, therefore, feed themselves. When you apply it properly, nitrogen fertilizer can turn a yellowing patch of grass into a bright green, thriving lawn. However, if you apply too much fertilizer, the grass can become soft and weak, ruining any improvements. Follow basic product instructions and application techniques to keep your grass growing well.
A garden rake is a tool used in gardening to move leaves or other garden debris. Also used to stir up dirt, they can scatter seeds for a wildflower garden or level off sand and rocks. There are many different types of rakes that each have a particular purpose. Identifying the types of rakes makes choosing the correct one easier for the next garden project.
A vine can lend a dynamic look to any garden. As it climbs, clings, coils or trails around its supportive structure, it expresses a sense of wildness and romance; if it produces flowers, a vine can contribute both color and fragrance to the garden. There are many varieties of vines, which produce flowers in an assortment of shapes, sizes and colors. An orange flowering vine is a bold and cheerful choice; numerous types are available.
Slugs can cause problems for many gardeners. They can damage plants and be difficult to eradicate. While there are many types of pesticides you can purchase, these usually contain harsh chemicals and are used to kill slugs once they've already inhabited your garden. A better option is to choose types of plants that repel slugs in order to keep them away from your home.
The camellia is a species of flowering plants native to southern and eastern Asia. Named after the Jesuit botanist Georg Joseph Kamel, the plant is famous throughout Asia both as an ornamental and a tea-producing plant. Upon its introduction to the United States as early as the 17th century, it quickly became a popular ornamental in the southern part of the country where the warm climate allowed it to thrive naturally.
Roses are ancient flowers that have captured hearts and imaginations for centuries. It is not, however, the woody, thorny stems of rose plants that have earned the rose the nickname "Queen of Flowers," but rather the soft, scented petals of rose flowers that have earned such affection. Rose petals are the silky components of a rose flower that unfurl as it blooms. The petals are what lend the rose plant its beauty and fragrance.
Fish fertilizer is a nitrogen rich and non-toxic soil amendment. By following application instructions and burying any fish waste away from pets any harmful encounters can be avoided.
Colorful variety is one great advantage of growing a garden, but if the white specks on your hibiscus flower or tree were not planned, you may be facing a problem with your plant. There are a number of factors that can cause white specks on hibiscus flowers and trees, and knowing what they are and how to fight them can save your plants, and possibly your whole garden.
An animal's habitat is the place where it lives. Butterflies can live in variety of places. Unfortunately, the majority of natural habitats for butterflies have been partially or totally destroyed by construction of buildings.
Whether you have a formal garden, a wild herb garden or a garden you've made up using flowers and plants you love with no real plan, you will find stones useful at some point. Your home's architecture and your garden type are critical in determining whether you should use natural stone, cast concrete or something in between.
Though it may be relatively small, a garden is a complete ecosystem in and of itself. It has the same components as larger, more elaborate ecosystems, and requires the same elements to survive.
Long after most flowers have stopped blooming for the season, chrysanthemums burst into bloom. These brightly colored flowers are synonymous with autumn. They look great as centerpieces or in pots on the patio, at the mailbox or welcoming visitors at the front door. Grow them in containers or plant them in a garden bed.
For any great landscaping project in your garden, rock elements are a fantastic complement that provide form and structure, as well as added elegance.
As a gardener, the quality of the plants you choose is essential for the success of your garden. There's no doubt that quality is important, but if you want to save money this year, while still having a variety of plants, then you should consider buying in bulk. Many nurseries and plant retailers offer considerable volume discounts for many of the plants they have in stock.
The U. S Department of Agriculture divides North America into 11 plant hardiness zones. The zones are based on average annual minimum temperature ranges.
Pole beans are a popular addition to many gardens. Originating near Guatemala, they quickly spread throughout North and South America. By the time the Europeans arrived, the Native Americans were growing beans as well as maize.
Growing green, healthy plants does not always mean starting from seed. There are many effective methods of plant propagation, including cloning techniques designed to pass on the characteristics of the healthiest and hardiest plants in the garden. Farmers and gardeners have known about cloning for years, and they have used it to increase crop yields, produce more colorful flowers and create tastier and more nutritious vegetables.
Viburnum is a flowering shrub that is widely used in landscaping throughout the United States. The viburnum genus includes more than 150 species, most of which are shrubs but some that are tree-sized. Most species are relatively resistant to pests and disease, but there are a few of the latter that might cause problems. Such diseases include fungal leaf spots, algal leaf spots, powdery mildew, downy mildew, Botryosphaeria dieback/canker and armillaria root rot.
A cultivator is a tool used for gardening and farming. When properly used, a cultivator will help keep soil healthy for the plants growing in it. Different types of cultivator are used for commercial farming and home gardening.
Lithops are sometimes called flowering stones or living stones because they look like or mimic stones in their surroundings for camouflage. They are actually a cactus from southern Africa and live in areas that sometimes receive only 2 inches of rain a year. Some species will even use mist or fog to provide them with enough moisture to survive. Because of this, they make easy houseplants to grow. They will bloom once a year with beautiful flowers and make a nice addition to your indoor garden. These plants are also safe to have around children and pets as they are…
Woodlice seem harmless. Many children actively seek out these bugs for an afternoon's entertainment. They have even affectionately nicknamed this potential pest, referring to them as pill bugs or roly polys for their habit of curling up into a tight ball every time they're touched. The bugs are able to protect their vital organs when they are tightly rolled up, but to the casual observer, woodlice in defense mode look more like pills or stones then insects. The tiny gray or black arthropods do not bite, so there is no immediate harm in handling them. However, if they are transported…
There is no need to give up having a flower or vegetable garden if you live in a condo. Check out some of these clever ideas for condo gardening!
Gardening edgers are handy cutting tools to keep the shape of your lawn, landscape beds and garden paths precise and tidy.
Most gardens in the northern hemisphere host several similar types of bugs, including butterflies, ladybirds, spiders, ants and snails. Each of these types of bugs serve specific purposes in a garden's ecosystem, whether it is to assist in pest removal, serve as food for other life forms or support the process of genetic diversity. The introduction or removal of these bugs can have wide reaching effects across the rest of life in the garden.
Growing lentils is similar to growing other types of beans, but they should be planted in the winter and harvested in the late summer. Grow lentils to use in cooking with information from a sustainable gardener in this free video on gardening.
Heliotrope, or Heliotropium convolvulaceum, is a popular garden flower that gets its name from the Greek "helios" for sun and "tropein" for turn, due to the plant's habit of turning toward the sun as the day progresses.
Beets are winter plants (part of the Amaranth family), and a very popularly consumed vegetable, in particular the red-rooted garden beet. They are very nutritious and used in many different types of cooking. They can be grown in the cooler seasons, including autumn and spring (they do very poorly in hotter weather, so growing them in the summertime is not an option).
There is no getting around it, pumpkins are a central icon of autumn, harvest and especially Halloween. Pumpkin pie, harvest bread and even pumpkin soup are favorite recipes we think about preparing when the leaves start turning golden brown. Jack-o'-lanterns, carved with both scary and fun faces can be seen on porches and doorsteps as ghostly clad children scream trick-or-treat for a piece of candy. Grow a bunch of pumpkins and share them with your neighbors.
Bougainvillea vines are one of the most common types of bougainvillea plants. Learn more about the bougainvillea vine with tips from a gardener in this free plant care video.
Learn how much food or fertilizer your shrubs need and what type of plant food to use in this free garden maintenance video.
Planning the bushes and trees that you want to grow in your yard along with flowerbeds can be confusing. If you want a crepe myrtle, it may be too large for your area. Your solution--one of the new varieties of a miniature crepe myrtle or a dwarf crepe myrtle. To grow a miniature crepe myrtle, follow the guidelines much like you would do with a regular crepe myrtle.
Some garden chores, such as mowing the lawn are routine, and others are infrequent, but inevitable. Keep steady with expected work and plan ahead for the unforeseen.
