Author: craigb

Horticulture Is Easy When You Follow This Advice

~ craigb

TIP! Starting seedlings in pots before planting in your garden is a smart idea. This really increases the survival rate of young plants.

There are many different reasons for adopting organic gardening methods. For example, some people prefer to use organic gardening to cultivate edibles for the dinner table. Much patience and effort are required though, in order to produce a successful and flourishing organic garden. Are you wondering where to start?

TIP! Create useful rulers from your tool handles. Large handled tools such as shovels, rakes, and hoes can be used as measuring sticks.

Think about planting your seeds in indoor pots and then transplanting them to your garden once they become seedlings. By allowing them to sprout first, you are increasing the odds of a seedling reaching maturity. It also allows you to tighten up the time periods between plantings. You will have healthy seedlings that are ready to be planted when you get rid of old plants.

TIP! Plant some perennials in your garden that repel slugs. It is alarming to see how quickly slugs, and their cousin snails, can annihilate a plant.

Soak the seeds and store in a dark area overnight. You then want to place a small amount of seeds in a container that’s smaller and then fill it up with water to the top. This lets water soak into the seeds, giving them an extra boost of hydration when they start growing. The seeds will be better able to survive and grow up.

TIP! When winter arrives, transfer some plants into the house to save them. It’s a good idea to save any expensive plants or those that will thrive in indoor heat.

Try to grow some wheat or cat grass around your cat’s favorite plants. Alternatively, you can try putting mothballs, citrus peel or anything else with an odor that cats find distasteful in the soil surrounding the plants.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! Deciduous shrubs need protection from the cold. If you have them in pots, you need to guard them from cold weather that will damage or kill them.

A simple way to lower the alkaline content of your soil is to dilute it with coffee grounds. Used coffee grounds will add acidity, helping to optimize the soil’s pH. The greens and vegetables need the proper balance and will grow bigger and stronger with the right mix.

TIP! You should start pea seedlings indoors instead of planting them outside right at the start. Pea seeds tend to germinate much better when planted indoors, before being moved to an outside garden.

Draw up a garden plan before you plant the first seed. A thoughtful plan can remind you of previous plantings and what you will see appearing from the soil in the months of spring and summer. You are also less likely to lose smaller members of the larger garden in the overall mix.

TIP! Pouring the excess water from your dinner of steamed veggies on them can help. Used teabags or grounds from coffee are a great way to add acid to the soil.

Protect your deciduous shrubs which are tender. If you have a few potted shrubs, they should be shielded from the wintry weather. Tie the tops together, and loosely cover the wigwam with a blanket or sheet. This method works better than covering your bushes in plastic, allowing air to circulate and preventing rotting.

TIP! Be sure to plant using the colors of Fall. It’s not necessary to think this way, however.

To save your knees from the wear and tear of gardening, invest in some knee pads if your garden includes a lot of low-growth plants. If you spend a large portion of your gardening session on your knees, it could create pain over time. Wear knee pads meant for gardeners so that you’ll be more comfortable when kneeling in your garden.

TIP! To keep dogs from disturbing your garden, spray some old aftershave, cologne, perfume or other strongly-scented products in the dirt or grass surrounding it. This covers up the smells that bring dogs to gardens in the first place, which means dogs are less likely to enter the garden.

Keep your plants dry and aerated daily. If your plants are moist, this can attract disease and parasites. Fungus infections are common in overly moist plants. Be sure to prevent the growth of fungus with a spray that will inhibit their growth.

TIP! Include your children in your efforts to organic gardening. Gardening helps your children learn about biological processes and serves as a social activity that helps the family grow closer while eating healthier.

Separate irises. Divide any overgrown clumps to increase your stock. Pick up bulbous irises after the foliage dies. The bulbs will then split naturally in the palm of your hand and if they’re re-planted, they can flower next year. Divide rhizomes with a knife. Cut the new pieces from its outside and dispose of the older center. Don’t plant any pieces that don’t have any strong offshoots. Plant immediately.

TIP! You can help to prevent your plants from developing diseases with aspirin water. One and a half aspirin, dissolved in two gallons of water, can be a great addition to your plants.

Start a new garden from seeds. When you begin a garden, it’s most eco friendly to do so with seed. It is common for commercial plants to be packaged in plastic that is not commonly recycled, and therefore, it is better to use seeds or purchase plantings only from merchants who make use of organic packaging.

TIP! Keep your gardening tools close by to maximize gardening efficiency. Carry your tools in a bucket, or keep them in the pockets of a pair of rugged pants.

Think about berry-producing trees that are green year round for your garden. This gives your garden a bit of a “splash” of color, even in winter when everything is nearly colorless. A few examples that you could go with include the American Holly, the Winterberry, the American Cranberrybush, and the Common Snowberry.

TIP! Coffee grounds are a great addition to soil. Coffee grounds have nitrogen that plants will utilize.

Invest in a kneeling stool, and a wheelbarrow to work in the garden. It’s rough on your knees to spend lots of time on the ground kneeling or squatting. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a portable, lightweight garden stool on hand. As well, gardening can involve some heavy lifting and moving, so a strong wheelbarrow can really make that aspect much more effortless.

TIP! Looking for a natural way to kill weeds in your garden? To control the growth of weeds, all you need is last week’s Sunday paper. Weeds can’t grow without sunlight.

Cooled water left over from steaming vegetables can be fed to them as a little snack. Add coffee grounds or tea leaves to the soil of acid-loving plants like rhododendron and gardenia. If you find that you have a fungus problem, try sprinkling some chamomile tea on your plants.

TIP! It is a great idea to help your garden by ruffling seedlings, either with cardboard or with your own hands, a couple of times each day. While this appears strange, research shows it can help plants grow larger, versus not petting them at all.

Choose plants that will provide color in autumn. That idea is actually far from the truth. When it comes to vivid foliage, autumn offers the best opportunity to view it. Maple trees can range from beautiful reds and yellows in addition to Beech or Dogwood trees. When selecting shrubs that will be colorful during the fall, consider hydrangea, barberry, or cotoneaster.

TIP! Create raised beds with stone, brick or untreated wood. If you choose to use wood, see to it that it’s untreated and that it can resist rotting.

So, as you have seen, it is true that organic horticulture requires research, work, and effort to start growing your own organic plants. Furthermore, you will only see your garden blossom with consistent tending. The next time you are in your garden, think of the tips from this article. If you can use that knowledge, you will be more capable of using organic gardening techniques to your advantage.

Quick Tips To Help You Get More From Your Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Your tool handles can double as measuring sticks. Tools with long handles, such as a shovel or rake, are absolutely perfect for this job, and make your workload a little bit smaller.

You are committed to the idea of planting a garden that works well with the environment. Congratulations on making the right decision. Keep reading for tips any beginner will find useful.

Baking Soda

TIP! Set your mower blades higher, so you don’t cut the grass too short. If you leave some of the grass when you mow, the roots grow further into the ground, which makes the grass less prone to drying and other hazards.

If mildew is forming on your plants, you should not purchase an expensive chemical. Mix plain baking soda with a small bit of liquid soap and water. Spray this mix on your plants every week and the mildew should go away. Baking soda is not harmful to your plants and will take care of the issue as well as any other treatment.

TIP! For areas with high alkaline, mix coffee grounds into the soil. The coffee grounds are a very inexpensive way to add acid back into the dirt.

During winter, you should take your favorite plants inside. Find out which plants will be able to thrive despite the transplanting and different indoor conditions. Carefully dig near the roots and transfer those plants into a flower pot.

TIP! Make sure that your deciduous shrubs are protected. Delicate shrubs that are sitting in pots should be sheltered from the cold weather.

If you’re like many gardeners, autumn means that it’s time to get some delicious fall edibles growing in your garden. Try something different by planing kale or lettuce inside a pumpkin, instead of using the planter pots you traditionally use. After cutting an opening and removing the meat and seeds from inside the pumpkin, use Wilt-Pruf, sprayed throughout the inside and cut edges, and prevent rot from occurring. Once you’ve done that, you can plant!

TIP! Do you enjoy fresh mint leaves though hate how they grow so fast and take over your entire garden? That’s why it’s better to place mint in containers rather than letting it have free rein in your garden. You can plant the container into the soil if you want to, but the container will restrict the roots, and make sure that the plant doesn’t run rampant in your garden.

Soak seeds overnight, preferably in a cool, dark place. Place some seeds into a small container, then fill it with water until it is almost to the top. This way, your seeds are well-hydrated and can start growing with a head start. Seeds that are cultivated this way are more likely to survive and mature properly.

TIP! All of your vegetable plants should have approximately two inches, just outside the stem, of organic mulch placed around them. The mulch help keeps the soil that is around the plants much more moist for much longer.

Irises should be divided. Divide any overgrown clumps to increase your stock. After foliage is no longer alive, remove the flowers with bulbs. These bulbs will divide into several parts naturally when you pick them up. You can then replant them, and watch them flower the following year. Rhizomes, however, need to be divided by using a gardening knife. Cut out new pieces from outside the bulb and throw away the old center. Each piece needs one strong offshoot. Do this cutting beside your garden bed, so that you can place your new groupings into the ground immediately.

TIP! You should purchase a wheelbarrow, as well as a kneeling stool to help you garden. In order to relieve stress on your knees when gardening, always use a small garden stool to be more comfortable.

Be consistent with garden fertilization. Manure can help grow plants, but to eliminate risk of pathogens, try using a type of commercially composted product. There are numerous types of fertilizers available. What type you select is less of a concern; any kind of fertilizer is better than none.

TIP! Give them a nutritious drink by using the water that you boiled your veggies in. It is also possible to utilize coffee ground or tea to make the soil more acidic for gardenias, rhododendrons and other plants that prefer acidic soil.

There are several all-natural ways to keep pests out of your garden, including certain plants. Slugs are repelled by bordering your vegetable garden with either onions or marigolds. Keep insects away from shrub and tree seedlings with mulch containing wood ash. With these natural methods, there is no need to purchase expensive, harsh pesticides.

TIP! Plant items with fall color. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be.

You should purchase a wheelbarrow, as well as a kneeling stool to help you garden. Get a portable stool if you want to garden comfortably without damaging your knees. Also having a garden usually requires moving heavy dirt and objects, so investing in a wheelbarrow is a very sound investment.

TIP! Have one plant be the most interesting eye-grabber in your garden. A good garden design will have a focal point which captivates attention.

Beautiful insects are attracted to heather when you plant it. Bees like heather, and they get their nectar from it early in the spring. Heather doesn’t usually require a lot of tending, so spiders, ground beetles and other good bugs like to call it home. With this in mind, be sure to prune your heather while wearing horticulture gloves.

TIP! During the hottest hours of each day, your vegetables become too soft, and even gentle harvesting will cause damage and bruising. Also ensure that you use a tool to cut the vegetables off at the vine.

It’s crucial for you to protect knees when doing gardening work. Bending over while horticulture can be painful and unhealthy for your back. You should kneel while tending to your plants for the sake of reducing stress to your spine. For extra comfort, purchase a knee pad for use as a cushion between your knees and the ground.

TIP! It is simple to prepare your garden for perennial flowers. With a garden spade, slice under the dirt then flip it over.

Have plastic bags on hand to put over dirty gardening shoes. When you do this, your flow stays going, and you can just get right back out to your garden and finish quick.

TIP! One unusual tip in organic gardening, is to “pet” your seedlings often. Use your hands or a piece of cardboard and lightly ruffle the seedling about one or two times a day.

When planting your organic garden, spacing is an important thing to keep in mind. It’s common to not think about how much space a plant will need once it’s full grown, and you don’t want to crowd your garden. Space is necessary for the plants, but air circulation is also important. It is, therefore, important for you to plan accordingly and allow for enough room between your seed rows.

TIP! Creating a trap with beer can help reduce the number of slugs in your garden. Dig a hole just deep enough for a glass jar to be placed in it while the jar still has its rim in line with the surface of the ground.

When planting seeds in containers, remember that the depth should be at least three times bigger than the seed. Some seeds need sunlight and should not be buried. Petunias and ageratum are two examples of seeds that require sunlight. If you are unsure as to whether or not your seeds should be covered or not, try to read the package or find the answer online.

TIP! Water demands from plants will depend on the season and the climate in your area. There are many variables of how much water your plants need including soil, light, and outdoor temperatures.

While horticulture organically requires more work than horticulture with the help of chemicals, the rewards are worth it. Chemicals can be beneficial, but a chemical free organic garden will always produce the best results.

TIP! While all kinds of gardening can help you feel more connected to the planet, gardening organically is especially good for this. Approaching gardening in this way will enlighten you in the entire process from beginning to end.

Throughout the year and in different climates, it may be necessary to vary your watering schedule. Depending upon whether it is morning, noon or night, the chemical composition of your local water supply and soil type may determine your water usage needs. Gardeners in warm, moist climates should avoid watering leafy plants as this makes them more vulnerable to fungal growths. Instead, water the root system well.

TIP! Plant your organic garden in the shade. Shade gardens do not require a lot of maintenance, which is very appealing to most people.

Overall, a layer of mulch is beneficial for the soil. The soil will be efficiently protected. On hot days, mulch will offer protection to a plant’s root system by cooling the soil. The layer of mulch will also minimize evaporation, reducing your need to water as frequently as you would a garden without mulch. Mulch is also excellent for keeping weeds at bay.

TIP! There are many options when growing an organic garden. Acid-loving plants really like mulch.

With these tips still fresh in your mind, you should be feeling more confident about your knowledge of organic horticulture methods. By reading and applying the information you have learned, you can go from a novice gardener to an expert-level organic gardener in no time at all. Remember to apply these tips as you plan and take care of your garden.

It Comes Naturally: Advice On Growing An Organic Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Properly lay your sod. Before you lay the sod, the soil has to be prepared.

Organic horticulture is a movement that is rapidly gathering satisfied followers. Just using the tips here will show you how you can get started now with an organic garden. Use these tricks and tips to get the best results.

TIP! Select plants that produce a relatively high yield. A lot of times a hybrid that will tolerate cold weather or disease will give you a higher output than heirlooms.

Take the time to remove weeds. Weeds can be extremely detrimental to your garden. To help with the removal, you can use white vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar is harmful to most plants. If you are too busy to pull weeds by hand, make a white vinegar solution and keep it handy for a quick spray when needed.

TIP! Transfer your favorite plants inside so they survive the winter. It’s a good idea to save any expensive plants or those that will thrive in indoor heat.

Before you plant seeds, pre-soak them for a night somewhere dark. Place a couple seeds in each container, then fill it close to full with water. This will hydrate your seeds and it will cause them to grow faster. The seeds will now have a greater chance of maturing and surviving.

TIP! When gardening, be watchful of stink bugs, particularly in the fall. These bugs like to eat beans, peppers, tomatoes, and many kinds of fruits.

Do not mow your lawn close to the bottom. Cutting your grass at a taller height allows grass roots to grow deeper and stronger, which helps lessen the chance of your lawn drying out easily. Short grass means short roots and dead grass.

TIP! Let your new seeds soak in a dark spot overnight. Place a couple seeds in each container, then fill it close to full with water.

Shelter your deciduous shrubs. If you’ve got tender shrubs which are potted, you need to protect them from cold weather. Pull the canes together at the top and securely tie them. Next, using a sheet or perhaps even a blanket, cover the structure. This is better than using plastic to wrap the plant, as more air can circulate.

TIP! Think about using evergreens in your yard that produce berries during the year. This will allow your garden to have color, even in the dreary winter months.

You could try to boil weeds if you are trying to remain organic. This is a safe way to eliminate weeds, as this will not damage the soil. Literally pour the water on the weeds, avoiding any wanted plants near them, and watch the weeds die over time. The extreme heat of the water will cause damage to the weeds’ roots, which will stop them from growing any more.

TIP! Don’t use broad-spectrum pesticides for your garden. Besides killing the insects you don’t want, this type of pesticide will also kill beneficial insects.

If you have a problem with your dog disturbing your garden, you can repel him by spraying perfume or other scents on the grass near the edge. This will help mask the scents that attract your dog, and will make your garden a less interesting place for your pet to be.

TIP! Sprouting seeds need less warmth than before. As your plants grow, move them away from the source of heat.

Try planting some heather to draw beautiful insects to your yard. Bees love heather, and when the heather blooms in early spring, it provides a good nectar source for them. Spiders, ground beetles and other useful insects are drawn to heather beds because they don’t tend to get jostled around. Because of this, you should put on a pair of gloves when it’s time to prune the heather.

TIP! Have plastic bags on hand so that you may cover your muddy gardening shoes. This allows you to maintain your flow so you can rapidly get back to your gardening.

You can create a great English garden by mixing types and sizes in one bed. Using plants which grow to the same length or height will make your bed look uniform.

TIP! Don’t use pesticides – kill your weeds naturally! Layer sheets of newspaper on the surface of areas where you are trying to control weeds. Weeds need sun for growth, just like any other plant.

If little ones live in your home, consider including everbearing strawberries in the garden plot. A lot of children not only love to pick out their own fruit but they also love to learn about it as well.

TIP! Use a beer trap to get rid of unwanted pests, like slugs. Take a glass jar and bury it in your garden, making sure that the lip of the jar is even with the soil.

Spacing is one of the primary considerations when planning an organic garden. You will most likely underestimate how much space plants will need as they grow. Space is necessary not only for physical growth but also to help keep air circulation flowing within your garden. Think ahead and give each plant room for expansion, by properly spacing the seeds.

TIP! Water demands from plants will depend on the season and the climate in your area. The amount of water you use each time should be dependent on the water quality, the soil type and what time of day you are doing it.

When developing your compost pile, use equal measures of dried and green material. When you pull weeds from your garden, throw them in the compost. The same goes for vegetable trimmings and grass clippings. These are considered green materials. Dried material includes straw, shredded paper, and cardboard. You should not use things like meat scraps, charcoal, blighted plants or the manure of meat-eating animals in your compost.

TIP! Think about what you need to use while getting ready to garden. There are many organic fertilizers and pesticides available which are much better options than chemicals.

Add mulch to keep your soil healthy. A couple of inches of mulch will protect what lies beneath it. On hot, dry days, mulch keeps the dirt underneath cool and moist. This protects and nourishes plant roots. This retains moisture for extended periods by reducing the rate at which water evaporates. It also doubles as weed control.

TIP! You can grow a variety of different plants in your home organic garden. Most acid-loving plants really thrive in mulch.

Rotate your garden annually. When the same corner of the garden accommodates the members of the same plant family repeatedly, it can become a breeding ground for disease, illness or fungi. The diseases and fungi are harbored in the soil and are ready to make a comeback each year. If you change things and plant your garden in a different area, you will have a way to keep fungus at bay.

TIP! Make sure you try to incorporate about 3 inches of organic material when you mulch your trees and flowers. This will conserve water, which will save you money and help the environment at the same time.

Look under the soil as a start! If you’re buying some tomato seedlings to use in your garden, keep a look out for starts that are lush and green, but have poor root systems. If starts don’t have a good root system, they’ll remain attached to the seedlings for a long time. The seedlings won’t be able to thrive until the starts have been removed.

TIP! Use fruit peelings and other leftovers from fruits to add to your composting. These food products contribute to a terrific natural compost for your garden, helping your plants grow beautifully and healthfully at nearly no extra cost to you.

Do some research on the botanical insecticides that are available in your area, many of which are extremely helpful in preventing pests from invading your garden. Sometimes the natural insecticides can be even more powerful than the engineered synthetic pesticides on the market. But, because they are made of natural materials, these types of insecticides frequently fade much faster.

TIP! Know when the right time is for your organic plants to be watered. A soaker hose would be of great use for this watering job.

When you are organically growing tomatoes, try planting only some seeds at once; then go back and plant an additional set of seeds in three weeks. You will not have to harvest the tomatoes at the same time. Additionally, should something happen to during one of your harvests, your tomatoes will not all be ruined.

TIP! Garlic is a great deterrent to keep bugs out of your organic garden. The smell of garlic repels lots of annoying insects.

Spread three inches of organic material on your garden for mulch. Mulch adds nutrients to your soil, prohibits water evaporation, inhibits weeds and creates a finished look to your flower or horticulture beds.

Organic Garden

TIP! A combination of water and ammonia forms a spray that can rid your garden of snails. You won’t hurt your plants with ammonia, and it will actually be converted into nitrogen that is beneficial later.

You have to be patient to create a perfect organic garden. Following the suggestions outlined above should help you get your organic garden off the ground more effectively. It doesn’t matter what you’re trying to grow, the tips you learned can help you be successful.

Grow A Safer Garden By Using These Organic Gardening Tips

~ craigb

TIP! When planting perennials, seek out those that are resistant to slugs. Snails and slugs can quickly wreak havoc on a garden.

This article will give you a lot of tips that will help your garden be more of a success for your business, your family or for you. You can have a good idea on what you need, this way you aren’t spending money on equipment you do not need, or on seeds that will not work in your environment.

TIP! For proper optimum growth, plants require sufficient amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). More CO2 generally produces more luxurious plant growth.

Use the handles of your tools as a handy ruler when doing your outdoor chores. Tools that have long handles such as rakes, hoes and shovels can be used in place of a measuring stick. On the floor, simply lay out the handles, then take a tape measure and run it next to them. Mark the measurements with a permanent marker. Next time you are working in the garden, you will have a large ruler at your fingertips!

TIP! If you are going to be doing some gardening, watch out for stink bugs, especially in the fall! This insect will gladly devour your tomatoes, beans, and peppers, as well as a variety of other fruits. If they are left in the garden, they can do great damage to your plants, so you should do whatever you can to eliminate them.

Fill your garden with bulbs if you want to enjoy beautiful flowers through the spring and into summer. These are hearty choices, choices that will reward you for years despite the little effort that is involved in their care. Remember that different bulbs will bloom at all different times of the year, so if you are careful to choose the right bulbs, you will see blooms in the early spring, and have flowers all the way to late summer.

TIP! Do not mow your lawn too short. If you leave your grass a bit longer, the roots can grow deeper.

When fall has arrived, it is time to plant the edibles for the autumn. This year, instead of using your regular clay pots to plant your kale and lettuce, use a pumpkin as the container instead! Once you cut an opening at the top of the pumpkin and scoop out the insides, spray the inside and edges with Wilt-Pruf to keep the pumpkin from rotting. Once you’ve done this, you can plant.

TIP! Don’t forget to use a good fertilizer in your garden. Manure can be effective, though you should use products which minimize pathogens.

Do not cut your grass too short. If you leave your grass kind of high, your roots will be deeper and your lawn will be stronger and not dry out. When you cut the grass too short, the roots are often not deep enough, which causes your lawn to have dry patches of brown, discolored grass.

Knee Pads

TIP! Spray old aftershave, perfume, or scented products around the grass of your garden to prevent your dog from entering it. This can make scents that dogs are attracted to, and make your garden less interesting in general for pets.

If you have many low-growing plants in your garden, get yourself a pair of horticulture knee pads. Long hours tending your garden can leave your knees sore and achy. A pair of good gardening knee pads can cushion your knees for more comfort.

You can spray scents such as after-shave and cologne around your garden to deter your dog. These scents overpower the garden’s scents, which causes your dog to lose interest.

TIP! If you are growing plants organically indoors, you have to consider the light that they are getting. If your apartment or home does not receive a huge amount of sunlight, you might want to grow plants that adapt to medium and low light environments instead.

It is important to allow cuts to completely heal before you do any horticulture in order to protect the cut from exposure to dirt or chemicals. Your cut could get infected if you’re dealing with grime and dirt when horticulture. The key is to use bandages capable of covering cuts in their entirety.

TIP! Use this simple tip to get your perennial garden ready in a flash. Turn over the soil in your garden so it will be soft and easy to plant before spreading wood chips around your garden.

Prepare the ground for a perennial garden quickly and easily. All you need to do is use a garden spade to slice under the turf, flip it over, then spread wood chips over the area about three to four inches deep. Wait two weeks or so, and then you are ready to jump right in with digging and planting.

TIP! When a seed actually sprouts, it doesn’t need to be in as warm an environment. Move your plants away from the heat as they grow.

After sprouting occurs, you will not need to keep seeds as warm. Move your plants away from the heat as they grow. You must also take away plastic films from your containers in order to keep the warmth and humidity out. Check on your seeds periodically to make sure you know when to remove the films.

TIP! Be efficient when working in your garden. Do not waste your time looking for tools.

Work properly in your garden. Have your tools laid out in an orderly way so you do not have to search for them. You can prepare what you need beforehand, keep it all handy in a toolbox or a shed, and you will be ready to work in your garden at a moment’s notice. Get a tool belt if you need to, or a pair of pants with a lot of pockets.

TIP! An old laundry basket makes a great way to gather your harvest. An old basket will act like a strainer does.

When planting your organic garden, spacing is an important thing to keep in mind. Plants take up quite a bit of space as they grow, and it’s easy to underestimate just how much. Space is necessary for the plants, but air circulation is also important. Keep this in mind when appropriating spots to plant your seeds.

TIP! Do you prefer to eliminate weeds without the use of harmful chemicals? A good thick layer of newspaper can be laid down to control weeds. Weeds can only grow in sunlight.

Don’t let the chores for your organic garden pile up. Even if you are too busy to tend to your gardens needs every day, you can try little things that will prevent you from having a lot of work when you return to your garden. While you are with your pet outside, pull some weeds while the pet does its business.

Laundry Basket

TIP! A raised bed can be built with untreated wood, brick or stone. If you choose wood, it needs to be naturally rot resistant and untreated.

When it is time to gather your produce, you should use an older laundry basket. The laundry basket will function as a makeshift strainer for the fruits and vegetables. Rinse your crops while in the laundry basket to strain the excess water.

TIP! Take the season and weather conditions into account when determining how much water to give your plants. The amount of water you will need will vary according to your climate and even such factors as the part of day and soil type.

While it’s harder to grow organically than chemically, the rewards are much better. Although the chemicals may claim greater results, using organic methods to tame your garden will do less harm to your body, and the environment.

TIP! When you start planting your organic tomatoes, stagger your planting time by planting two groups of plants, three weeks apart. This staggers your harvest over time.

Annually rotate your garden. Planting the same area with the same plants year after year will lead to disease and fungus. The problems leech into the soil, staying there for the next year’s crop. If you change things up on a regular basis by varying your planting locations, you take advantage of a natural methodology to avoid fungus and disease problems.

You just need to do some research, work outdoors, and have patience. Once your garden starts to thrive, you’ll see that your efforts were all worthwhile.

Tips On Organic Horticulture For New Gardeners

~ craigb

TIP! Select plants that produce a relatively high yield. It is quite common to find that hybrids, which are often able to resist disease and withstand cold climates, produce yields much larger than their conventional counterparts.

Well, now is as good a time as any. You may have concerns about logistics, but do not fear! The following article will outline the straight facts you need to start a beautiful garden. Included here is advice that will assist you with your horticulture dreams.

TIP! Your tool handles can double as measuring sticks. Tools with long handles, such as rakes, hoes, and shovels can be converted into handy measuring sticks.

To keep your plants from getting shocked, you need to gradually introduce them to changes in temperature and conditions. Start by placing your plants outside for a few hours only. Then over the next week, gradually increase the time they are in their new habitat. When the week is done, your plants will be ready for the big move without any problems.

TIP! Get a slug-proof variety of perennials. Slugs and snails will quickly destroy your garden if you let them.

When choosing plants, pick those that produce a high yield. A plant that is resistant to disease, or one that is tolerant of extreme weather, will deliver a higher yield.

TIP! Use annuals and biennials to brighten your flower garden. Your flower beds will look different from one season to another.

Your tool handles can easily be used as handy rulers. Large handled tools such as shovels, rakes, and hoes can be used as measuring sticks. Place the handles on the ground and measure them. Then, with a permanent marker, you want to label distances. When the need arises to measure something while in your garden, the measuring tool you need will literally be “on hand,” sketched into the handles of your tools.

TIP! Pest control can present a challenge for successful vegetable gardening. It’s wise to avoid harsh insecticides if you plan on consuming your fresh fruits and vegetables.

Try using annuals and biennials to add color to your flower beds, and brighten them up. These flowers grow quickly and can be planted at any time during the year. If you want to maintain a flower garden all year or you want to add new flowers to reflect the changing seasons, annuals and biennials are for you. You can fill any spaces between shrubs and perennials when they are in the sun. Some flowers you can use are rudbekia, petunias, cosmos, marigolds, or sunflowers.

TIP! If you want to start a small organic garden indoors, evaluate the amount of natural light that is present. If you live in a home or apartment that does not get great sunlight you may want to consider growing plants that are designed to grow in low or medium-light environments.

Before actually putting plants into your garden, check the type and compostion of your soil. For a tiny fee, a soil analysis may be done, and based on the results, the soil can support a growing garden by you enriching it as necessary. A Cooperative Extension office can provide you with this service, saving you learning on your own by trial and error.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! When you’re making a compost pile, you should use fresh and dried plants to get it started. Green plant material consists of spent flowers, veggie and fruit waste, leaves, weeds, and grass clippings.

If a test indicates that your soil is very alkaline, you can mix the dirt with used coffee grounds. Using coffee grounds is a low-cost way to increase the acidity of the soil. Balanced soil will produce more flavorful, crisp vegetables and greens.

TIP! When planting seeds, you should bury them three times as deep as their actual size. You should know that certain seeds need not be covered, because they need the sunlight.

A set of knee pads is a great investment if your garden has a lot of low-growing plants. Kneeling on the ground as you garden will eventually cause serious discomfort for your knees. Cushion your knees with a pair of gardening knee pads.

TIP! Construct raised flower beds of brick, stone, or wood. Be sure that any wood you use isn’t chemically treated, and will be able to resist rot naturally.

Start your garden by planting seed in small pots. Starting with your own seeds is more environmentally friendly than buying plants from a nursery. Seeds eliminate the waste of plastic containers from nurseries which rarely get recycled. There are some nurseries, however, that send their plants out in organic potting materials.

TIP! While organic gardening costs more and requires more effort, the produce that will come out of your garden will be healthier for you. Chemical giants claim miracles, but those miracle crops come at a price to whoever eats the produce.

Put a couple of inches of organic mulch around each of your vegetable plants. Mulch will retain water so that you won’t have to water your plants as often. It will also prevent the growth of weeds. This can save you a lot of time and effort in pulling out the weeds.

TIP! When gardening, know what is available for you to use. Experiment with organic and natural fertilizers instead of the usual chemical, commercial ones.

You can help provide nutrients by watering your plants with room temperature water that is leftover after cooking vegetables. You should also try using a bit of coffee grounds or tea to increase the acidity of the soil for your gardenias or your rhododendrons. Spray your plants with a 9:1 mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide to eliminate fungus without harming your plants.

TIP! Plant your organic garden in the shade. You might be interested to know that these gardens are very low maintenance.

One way to encourage an organic garden to be sustainable and healthy is to put aside a section to stay undeveloped, thus encouraging wildlife to approach it. As the natural wildlife begins to flourish, the various insects, birds, and other natural life around will all blend together and actually assist your garden as it begins to grow.

TIP! When adding a new tree or shrub to your garden, remember that a ragged planting hole is best. If you see that the sides of the hole appear shiny, you’ve probably packed the dirt to tight, which can interfere with the roots.

Once your seeds have germinated they will not need to be kept as warm as before. You should move your sprouted plants farther from the heat when they are past the sprouting stage. Additionally, remove any plastic films that were on your containers. This will keep out warmth and humidity. You should know when the right time is if you are keeping an eye on the seeds.

Laundry Basket

TIP! Garlic is an easy deterrent for bugs in an organic garden. The odor tends to keep harmful insects out of the area.

Use an old laundry basket to collect your produce. The laundry basket can be used as a colander for your produce. You can rinse your produce off while it is in the basket, and the excess water will strain through the holes of your laundry basket.

TIP! Save your rainwater. It can help you to keep your garden healthy.

Do you want to get rid of weeds in a natural way? Pile newspapers on top of each other to kill weeds. Weeds must have sunlight in order to grow. If you put a thick layer of newspaper on them, weeds will not be able to get light or air, and they will die! Newspapers break down over time, and they make a great addition to compost. Add a layer of mulch on top to make it look more attractive!

TIP! A terrific way to fertilize your plants in the garden is by creating compost of your own. A fun method to make this is to start a small compost bin with worms.

After reading this article, you should feel better about starting your gardening journey. Even if you have some previous experience with gardening, you now know more about this art. These tips should help get you going in the right direction so that your garden is extremely successful.

Organic Gardening And You: Helpful Tips And Advice

~ craigb

TIP! When laying sod, it is important that you do it correctly. Get your soil ready before you lay the sod.

In order to be a good organic gardener, you need to have a lot of patience and a knack for how to take care of plants. It is an enjoyable way to grow your own nutritious foods that are free of pesticides and other harsh chemicals. However, organic gardening obviously isn’t as easy as it might sound. Read the following tips to discover how to begin horticulture like a pro.

TIP! Choose the varieties of plants that will produce a higher yield. There are genetically modified plants that resist cold and/or disease.

When winter arrives, transfer some plants into the house to save them. Choose the plants that are most likely to survive. Dig the plant up without damaging the roots and place it a big enough pot.

TIP! Brighten your garden with biennials and annuals. Annuals and biennials that grow quickly can really wake up your flower beds, and they allow you to have a new garden look every season or every year, if you choose to.

Your soil needs to be of good quality before you start a garden. An inexpensive soil report can be used to adjust soil nutrients to optimum levels, which will ensure your garden thrives. Save yourself the trouble of a failed crop by contacting your local Cooperative Extension to preform the soil test.

TIP! Let your new seeds soak in a dark spot overnight. Soak the seeds by placing them in a container where they are covered with water.

Plants need C02 for maximum growth. Typically, the higher the levels of carbon dioxide present in a plant’s environment, the better it will grow. Greenhouses provide the best levels of CO2 for plants. The levels need to be kept high for optimum greenery growth.

TIP! If you’re a new gardener, it is vital that you follow the instructions when it comes to your chemicals and tools. If you don’t pay good attention, you could wind up with skin irritations or other issues.

When you are mowing your lawn do not cut it too closely to the dirt. If you let your grass keep some height after mowing, it will be able to absorb more sun and moisture resulting in a lusher, greener lawn. Short grass on the other hand is more susceptible to drying out.

TIP! Think about berry-producing trees that are green year round for your garden. These types of trees can offer your garden a splash of color, especially during the winter when all other plants and trees have lost their hues.

Protect your delicate deciduous shrubs from harsh elements. If you have tender shrubs in pots, they need to be protected in the cold weather. Tie these canes at the top, and place a blanket over it. This will work better than wrapping your plant with plastic, because air can still circulate, which will help to prevent rotting.

TIP! Use a wheelbarrow and a kneeling stool when you’re working in your garden. In order to relieve stress on your knees when gardening, always use a small garden stool to be more comfortable.

A touch of organic mulch will boost the potential of the vegetable plants in your garden. Mulch will keep soil moist for longer. It will also prevent weeds from sprouting. This could save you lots of weed-pulling time.

TIP! Heat softens vegetables, so you can damage them immensely by pulling them out of the ground or cutting them off vines when it is too hot outside. Do not twist the vegetable to remove it from the vine; instead, cut the stem to avoid damaging the plant.

Purchase a wheelbarrow, and a kneeling stool to use in your garden. Get a portable stool if you want to garden comfortably without damaging your knees. A wheelbarrow will come in handy to easily move dirt, rocks and other heavy objects.

TIP! If you have a high priority for sustainability in your organic gardening, try leaving a corner of the property undeveloped as a mini wildlife refuge. The kind of birds and insects needed for pollination will be naturally present on your property and help with your organic garden.

Before planting any perennials, you have to make the ground ready. Turn over the soil in your garden so it will be soft and easy to plant before spreading wood chips around your garden. Let this sit for a couple weeks, next dig into it to plant your new plants.

TIP! To make the most of your time in the garden, you should store all of your tools and implements in a close, accessible location. You have several options including using a bucket to hold your tools or wearing pants with lots of sturdy pockets.

Do not plant your seeds in a rush. Begin by adding moisture to the dirt. Then, evenly spread the seeds according to the type of plant and how much room they require for good growth. Typically, seeds should be planted at a depth that is equal to three times their size. Some seeds require direct sunlight to grow, and these should be left on top of the soil.

TIP! Get the most out of what you have, and your property. If you are looking for high returns, landscaping gets you a lot of your money back.

To be most efficient in your horticulture, always keep your tools close at hand. You should use a large pail and wear sturdy pants that have several pockets. Have gloves, small shears, a trowel and any other tools you may need on hand to make it simpler to maintain your garden.

TIP! Killing weeds the natural way? Pile newspapers on top of each other to kill weeds. Weeds can’t grow without sunlight.

Use approximately two or three inches of natural, organic material as some mulch in every single flower bed. Not only will you be adding nutrients, but weeds will be less likely to grow and moisture will be retained more easily. It also adds a uniform and cohesive look to the garden.

You can cover your muddied gardening footware easily by keeping plastic bags around. This allows you to keep going, getting back to your garden quickly.

TIP! You need to make a bed that is efficient for your plants. One way to achieve this is to use a garden tool to carve out a small slice of earth.

Consider the climate and season when watering your plants. You will need to water differently depending on what time it is or what kind of soil you are using. In warm climates with high humidity, for instance, plants often develop fungal infections when water is applied to the leaves. Instead focus on watering the root system.

TIP! When determining what you would want to plant in your garden, you should be as specific as possible. There are certain types of vegetables and flowers that may not do well in a particular environment, whereas others will flourish.

A good tip for an organic garden with tomatoes, is to plant an additional set of tomatoes once three weeks have passed since you planted the original ones. Staggering the planting times ensures that you are able to consistently enjoy ripe tomatoes. Also, if something goes wrong during one harvest, all your tomatoes won’t be ruined.

TIP! If you are mulching your plants, you should use a layer of approximately three inches deep. This will conserve water, which will save you money and help the environment at the same time.

Consider the value of the crops you choose to grow. However, different people can have varying opinions as to how much a specific plant is worth. You can actually save money by growing plants that are initially more expensive to buy. So, plant things that you love and enjoy their results.

TIP! Remember to buy plants for your organic garden in an intelligent manner. This is very true of perennials or annuals.

The watering of organic garden plants should be done with care. Test out a soaker hose in your garden. This type of hose has many small holes that allow the water to trickle downward to the plants roots. It also helps to lock in moisture. The best time to water your garden is early in the morning before the sun’s rays get too strong.

TIP! You can be a bit more environmentally friendly by doing things like saving rainwater. To collect rainwater, use rain barrels or buckets.

Conserve your rainwater! Use barrels or buckets to trap rainwater to use in your organic garden. This saves you from paying for extra water to do your watering. Rain is an abundant source of free water! Rainwater also does not contain the added chemicals that tap water has.

TIP! If you want to continue your organic gardening throughout the winter, you can create a tent with materials laying around your home. Make use of old bean poles as you stick them to the edge of your beds.

To succeed at a nature based hobby like organic horticulture, you need a little hard work and a whole lot of patience. However, the tastiness of the produce you grow will be a reward in itself. This article is full of advice that you can use, along with a little old-fashioned hard work, to get off to a great start in organic gardening.

Top Organic Horticulture Advice From The Experts

~ craigb

TIP! Learn about plant varieties so you can choose the ones with the best yields. In many cases, a disease-resistant or cold-tolerant hybrid will produce a higher yield than a traditional variety.

Many people are finding out how great it is to have an organic garden. With these tips, you can learn fast about how to start your own organic garden. Continue reading to uncover a number of effective tips for growing an organic garden you can be proud of.

TIP! Start your plants in some pots and plant its seedlings in the garden. This really increases the survival rate of young plants.

Shoveling soil that is mostly clay can be difficult because of the hardness of the soil, and because it sticks to the shovel. To ease the digging, apply some car wax or floor wax to the head of the shovel and buff. The clay will slide off of its surface and it will prevent rust.

TIP! Annuals and biennials are an excellent way to add a splash of bright color to your flower gardens. Biennials and annuals that grow quickly can add color to a flower bed, plus they permit you to modify the way the flower bed looks each season and each year.

Do not plant perennials that are prone to snail infestation. A plant can be completely demolished overnight by slugs and snails. These pests are particularly fond of young perennials and those varieties with leaves that are tender, smooth, and thin. There are some perennials that do not appeal to slugs, such as those with leaves that are hairy and tough with a bad taste. A few great choices are achillea, campanula, and heuchera. Other options from which you can choose are hellebourus and euphorbia.

TIP! It is very important to keep the weeds from taking over in your garden. Weeds will cause your garden to become overgrown and cluttered.

For the best results, select the right kind of soil. The type of plants you’re planning to grow will determine the type of soil you need, and whether the soil will or will not be adapted. You can simply use one type of soil to make an artificial area.

TIP! If you’re like many gardeners, autumn means that it’s time to get some delicious fall edibles growing in your garden. A pumpkin can be used as a planting container instead of clay pots.

Soak seeds overnight, preferably in a cool, dark place. Place a couple seeds in each container, then fill it close to full with water. The seeds will get the hydration they need to start growing. The seeds will be better able to survive and grow up.

TIP! In a place that’s dark, pre-soak the seeds. Place a couple seeds in each container, then fill it close to full with water.

Do you enjoy fresh mint, but don’t like how they engulf your garden in their growth? Keep the growth under control by growing them in a large horticulture pot instead. If you would like the mint leaves to still be in the ground, simply plant the container, and the leaves will stay within the boundaries of the pot.

TIP! Balance your alkaline soil with the acid found in used coffee grounds. The coffee grounds are an inexpensive way to give some acid back to the dirt.

Start your garden by planting seed in small pots. The most “green” way to create a new garden is starting from seeds. Plastics from nurseries aren’t recycled often, which causes them to go into landfills; so try starting with seeds, or buying from organic nurseries.

TIP! As the weather turns colder, it is important to prepare your sensitive shrubs for the change. Tender, potted shrubs must be protected when the weather is cold.

To ensure a healthy garden, make sure you surround your plants with a few inches of good organic mulch. When you place mulch around your plants, it keeps the ground more moist. It will also prevent the growth of weeds. This will save you time, money, and effort in your lovely garden.

TIP! Make sure you read instructions on products and tools before using them. If you do not do this very simple step, you can end up causing skin irritation problems that are very painful.

Plant for fall color. That idea is actually far from the truth. Foliage never looks as colorful and vibrant as it does in the fall. Maple, beech, and dogwood display colors ranging from dark crimson to light yellow. When you choose shrubbery, try hydrangea, barberry, or cotoneaster.

TIP! Pest control can become a major issue. You can’t use chemicals as they’re the last thing you want to be eating when you enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Choose one stand-out plant to be a focal point. To create an attractive garden design, arrange a focal point to draw attention. Quite often a distinctive plant works well as a point of interest.

TIP! It’s important to let your cuts heal prior to doing any gardening without gloves. It is possible for a cut to become extremely infected if it comes into contact with dirt and grime while gardening.

Mix various plant heights and plants in the exact same bed for a unique English garden. Using plants of all the same kind or size, can result in a boring, and unoriginal garden.

TIP! To be as efficient as possible in the garden, always have your tools handy. Use a large bucket, or wear rugged pants with several pockets.

If you’re really serious about environmentally-friendly horticulture practices, refrain from developing some of your land and use it as an animal habitat. Wildlife can help the plants in your garden to thrive, as insects support plant reproduction, while the excrement of many species contains nutrients which can help to fertilize your soil.

TIP! Spend your time working efficiently in your organic garden. You do not have the time to spend an hour looking for each tool you need.

When you sow seeds in your garden, try not to rush the process. Before taking any other steps, you should first moisturize the soil. Then, distribute the seeds evenly, and see to it that they have space to grow. Look at how big the seeds are, multiply that by three, and plant them down into the earth accordingly. Some seeds should not be buried at all as they need light to grow.

TIP! Gardening of any type can be a great hobby that helps you to feel more at one with the earth, but organic gardening is especially good at this. Organic gardening is an excellent lesson in the plant life cycle and how to get the most from the planting process.

As the seeds sprout, they’ll need less warmth. As your plants grow, move them away from the source of heat. Plastic films should be removed on the containers, as that helps to keep out humidity and warmth. Keep an eye on your seeds so you will know when this should be done.

TIP! Use a soaker hose to water your organic garden. This type of hose allows the gardener to get a small, but steady amount of water near the roots without getting the leaves wet constantly.

While all kinds of horticulture can help you feel more connected to the planet, horticulture organically is especially good for this. This method of gardening will give you a deep understanding of the way plants grow, from beginning to end.

TIP! Try to keep your garden diverse. The more plants you have, the more wildlife that will come.

As previously mentioned, growing your ideal organic garden requires some time, patience, and effort. Head out to the garden, and make use of these tips to turn it into an amazing organic masterpiece. It doesn’t matter what you are growing, these tips can help you be successful.

Get Growing! Organic Horticulture Tips And Tricks

~ craigb

TIP! Put sod down the right way. Get your soil ready before you lay the sod.

Environmentally-conscious horticulture requires dedication to following best practices at all times. Here is where intelligent horticulture techniques will come in useful. This advice will help you create happier, healthier and tastier produce. Use this advice to have your organic garden become the best around.

TIP! Consider planting slug-proof perennials. Creatures like snails or slugs can destroy a plant in a single night.

Make sure to lay the sod properly. Before laying the sod, have your soil prepared. Thoroughly weed the soil, and work it into a fine, smooth tilth. When the soil is clean, pack it tightly and create a flat surface. Make sure the soil is thoroughly moist. Sod must be arranged in staggered rows; each joint should offset one another. You want the sod to end up as a flat and even surface. If there are any gaps in between the sod pieces, then you can fill these in with some soil. Water the sod each day for two weeks so it will become well-rooted and ready for foot traffic.

TIP! You don’t need a costly chemical solution to deal with powdery mildew in your garden. All it takes is a liquid soap, water, and baking soda mixture.

Plants that result in a larger yield should be higher on your priority list when planning the garden. In many cases, a disease-resistant or cold-tolerant hybrid will produce a higher yield than a traditional variety.

TIP! When winter arrives, transfer some plants into the house to save them. Perhaps save the most resistant or expensive plants.

When winter arrives, transfer some plants into the house to save them. Find out which plants will be able to thrive despite the transplanting and different indoor conditions. Cautiously avoid the roots while digging, and put your plant into a perfectly sized pot.

Gardening Knee Pads

TIP! If you are growing vegetables in your garden, it is important that you have them in a spot where they can get at least six hours of sun a day. Most vegetables need that much sun to grow rapidly and successfully.

If you have a lot of low-growing plants to take care of in your garden, purchase gardening knee pads. When you spend a lot of time kneeling while horticulture, your knees can be very achy by the end of the day Pick up a good pair of gardening knee pads to help cushion your knees.

TIP! If you are planning on growing peas, begin the plantings inside instead of outside. If you were to plant them inside first, the seeds should germinate better.

See to it that you fertilize your garden. Manure is an excellent fertilizer, but it needs to be combined with a synthetic compost to stop diseases from infecting your plants. You must be sure to use some kind of fertilizer. There are many different combinations available for different uses.

TIP! Place a few inches of organically based mulch around your vegetable plants. The mulch will help keep the dirt around the plants more moist.

Look for evergreen variants that produce berries. They offer terrific color during the dreariest times of the year when nothing else you have planted has any hue remaining. Some examples of evergreens that produce berries and color in the wintertime are the American Holly, Cranberrybush, the Winterberry and the Common Snowberry.

TIP! If you want the best tasting vegetables, learn about the optimum time to harvest them. Different vegetables have different, ideal times that they should be picked for best flavor.

Do not use broad-spectrum pesticides within your garden. If your pesticide has too wide a range of targets, it can kill off useful insects that fight off other pests. These helpful bugs are usually more sensitive to the chemicals than the pests, so if you find yourself in a situation where the good bugs are dying out, you can expect the pest problem to grow. You will need even more pesticides to deal with the problem, and it will never really go away.

TIP! Think about planting everbearing strawberries in your garden, especially if you have small children. Kids delight in the idea of growing things and seeing how things change over time.

You don’t want to pick vegetables during the day when it is hot, as that is when they are prone to damage due to them being softer. Do not twist the vegetable to remove it from the vine; instead, cut the stem to avoid damaging the plant.

TIP! If you are interested in sustainable organic gardening, consider keeping part of your property undeveloped so that wildlife can flourish there. This will also benefit your cultivated gardens as it will attract more bugs and birds to pollinate your other plants.

A good tip to help your plants stay healthy and fight diseases is to use aspirin water. One and a half aspirin, dissolved in two gallons of water, can be a great addition to your plants. All you need to do is spray the plants with the solution in order to battle common ailments. Plants should be sprayed once every two to three weeks.

TIP! If you cut your hand, you can use a glove to protect it from germs and chemicals until it heals. Cuts have a much higher likelihood of getting infected if they are in contact with dirt when you garden.

If you plan to raise organic plants inside, you need to think about how much light they will get. If your dwelling does not enjoy a great deal of natural sunlight, it makes sense to grow only those varieties meant to thrive in such environments. Otherwise, you could simply use your own lights.

TIP! Easily and quickly prepare your ground for a garden of perennials. Turn over the soil in your garden so it will be soft and easy to plant before spreading wood chips around your garden.

Do not plant your seeds in a rush. First, add moisture to the soil where you will be planting. Then distribute the seeds so that they are evenly spaced and have sufficient room to grow. The seeds should be buried to a depth that is equal to three times the diameter of the seeds. There are some seeds that require light to grow, so they must not be buried.

TIP! Take the necessary time when planting seeds. A key first step is to add moisture to your soil.

To make the most of your time in the garden, you should store all of your tools and implements in a close, accessible location. You should use a large pail and wear sturdy pants that have several pockets. A gardener’s tool belt will allow you to keep your gardening gloves and other tools close by while you are working in your garden.

TIP! Try to use untreated wood, brick or stone and make a raised bed. Any wood you use needs to be untreated and resistant to rot.

After sprouting occurs, you will not need to keep seeds as warm. Locate your plants further from your heat source as they mature. You should also remove plastic films that you had on your containers to keep the humidity and warmth out. Watch your seeds closely to know how to go about this.

TIP! Regulate the amount and timing of watering, to the specific climate and its seasonal variations. Knowing how much to water your plants can be a difficult task.

Work efficiently in your garden. Don’t spend 30 minutes searching for a tool. Prepare all the tools you need before you go out to work on your garden, and put them away nicely when you are done. One way to keep your tools handy is to use a belt especially designed to hold them. An alternative is to wear a garment with multiple pockets that are big enough to hold your more commonly used tools.

TIP! Adding too much water could be harmful to the plants, because excess water will hinder the roots ability to get the nutrients they need from the soil. Always check to see if rain is in the forecast before watering your plants.

You can stop mud from being tracked into your house by covering your dirty gardening shoes with plastic bags. You will be able to go in and out without having to keep taking your shoes on and off.

TIP! Look for high-value crops. Each person is going to think the value of any given plant is different.

If slugs are an issue in your garden, a beer trap can make them go away. Place a jar into the soil so that the top of it’s mouth rests parallel with the soil. Next, fill the jar with beer until there is only one inch left below the mouth of the jar. Slugs are attracted by the beer and won’t be able to exit the jar once they enter.

TIP! One way to create compost easily and cheaply is to mix up fruit peels and other refuse from fruit. This natural waste is full of nutrients to give your garden a healthy bloom at no cost when used as compost.

As you can see from the previous list of tips, organic gardening can really make a difference in the freshness and nutrients of your produce. It takes a lot of work and tons of patience, but it is all worth it in the end to have a successful organic garden.

What Is All Of The Buzz About Organic Gardening?

~ craigb

TIP! Start your seedlings in pots inside and then transplant them into your garden. This increases the chance that your plants will survive to adulthood.

A garden makes a home look great but does even more than that. It is more than just an activity for the green-thumbed hobbyist. It can give a gardener a feeling of peace. When one is good at gardening, the rewards are outstanding.

TIP! Slug-proof your garden with smart perennial choices. If slugs or snails find their favorite perennials in your garden, they’ll snack all night.

Start your plants in containers, and then transplant the seedlings into the garden later on. Doing this will increase the survival rate of all your outdoor plants. This also helps tighten time between plantings. As soon as you harvest the mature plants in your garden, your new seedlings will be large enough to plant outside!

TIP! Plant annuals and biennials to make your flower beds brighter. These fast growth plants make flower beds vibrant, and they let you alter the appearance seasonally and annually.

If you have any mildew on the plants, do not go out and buy anything. All it takes is a liquid soap, water, and baking soda mixture. Spray this mix on your plants every week and the mildew should go away. No damage will occur to your plants, and the baking soda is mild and efficient.

TIP! If mildew is forming on your plants, you should not purchase an expensive chemical. Rather, you should mix a bit of baking soda with a small quantity of liquid soap in water.

Protect your delicate shrubs from harsh, wintry elements. If you have some tender shrubs that are in planters, you need to protect them from cold weather. Tie the tops together, and loosely cover the wigwam with a blanket or sheet. In contrast to wrapping the plant with plastic, this method promotes air circulation, which stops the plant from rotting.

Knee Pads

TIP! Stink bugs can damage your garden, especially if you garden in the fall. They like fruits, as well as peppers, beans and tomatoes.

If you have many low-growing plants in your garden, get yourself a pair of gardening knee pads. The amount of time that you spend gardening on your knees can make your knees hurt by the time you are done. A pair of good horticulture knee pads can cushion your knees for more comfort.

TIP! If you want your garden to blossom with flowers throughout the spring and summer, plant some bulbs in it. Most people have no trouble successfully growing bulbs, and their flowers will return each and every year.

A quality garden must be grown from seeds. Not only is this more of an effective method for horticulture, but it’s also more environmentally-friendly. Packaging materials for many plants utilize plastics that are not recyclable, so avoid these containers and choose instead to sow your garden with seeds or utilize organic pots.

TIP! Autumn not only means colder weather but new vegetables to plant. If you want to find an interesting container for your lettuce or kale, try a pumpkin! Simply cut the pumpkin open at the top, so you can remove the seeds and insides.

Look for targeted pesticides instead of using popular but damaging broad-spectrum products. Broad-spectrum pesticides will kill insects that are helpful to your garden as well as the harmful ones. Many times good bugs will be more sensitive to harmful pesticides than the ones you are trying to get rid of. If your good bug population goes down, your problem will only get worse. If this happens, you just fuel an expanding cycle of needing even more pesticides.

TIP! If you want a strange, yet successful, green answer to getting rid of weeds, boil them to death. One of the safest “herbicides” you can find is a pot of boiling water.

Water containing some aspirin helps your plants fight illness. An aspirin and a half, dissolved in about two gallons of fresh water, is great for your plants. You simply have to spray the solution on your plants to assist them in warding off diseases. Use this method every three weeks.

TIP! Broad-spectrum pesticide is not a good garden choice. This particular type of pesticide will also kill the useful insects that consume the pests.

Pay attention to how much light your indoor plants are getting. If your windows are small or receive little light due to their positioning, a plant that requires little sunlight will be more comfortable and healthy. If you still are unable to get enough light to your plants, consider purchasing grow-lights.

TIP! Efficiently water your garden. Use a soaker hose to save time so that you do not have to water each plant individually with a hose nozzle, or a watering can that needs to be refilled repeatedly.

Having a garden of perennials can be an easy and quick process. Use your spade to slice chunks of turf up, then flip each piece over, and spread wood chips on top to a depth of four inches. Let the area sit for a fortnight, then turn the earth and set up your new perennial bed.

TIP! Any time that you are gardening in direct sunlight, dress appropriately to prevent skin damage. There are many ways to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays such as wearing sunglasses, sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats.

Once your seeds have germinated they will not need to be kept as warm as before. You should move your sprouted plants farther from the heat when they are past the sprouting stage. Make sure you remember to remove any plastic films that were on the plant containers to repel humidity and warmth. Watch your seeds closely to know how to go about this.

TIP! If you plan to raise organic plants inside, you need to think about how much light they will get. Ideally, these plants should be kept in a room that offers natural light from a window or glass door.

Use about two to three inches of organic material as mulch in all of your flower beds. This is a good way to keep weed growth at bay and add nutrients that you need in your garden. As an added bonus, a nice mulch can help make your garden look more finished.

TIP! Use approximately two or three inches of natural, organic material as some mulch in every single flower bed. Doing this keeps weeds down, keeps the moisture in your plants, and gives more nutrients to the plants.

Pine can make for a great type of mulch. Certain plants are acidic, and thrive in acidic soil. If you have acid loving plants, use pine needles as a mulch. Spread the needles over the beds in a layer that is approximately 2-inches deep. Over time, the needles will begin to decay, supplying the soil with acid as they do.

TIP! Try using coffee grounds on the soil. Coffee beans are loaded with nitrogen, which offers nourishment for plants.

It is possible to control weeds with natural methods. Take newspapers and layer them for controlling weeds. Weeds must have sunlight in order to grow. When you cover weeds with newspaper layers, they suffocate due to lack of light. Because newspapers decompose well with the passage of time, they make great additions to compost. One way to enhance the appearance of your garden if you are using newspapers is to add an additional layer of mulch.

TIP! A good tip for an organic garden with tomatoes, is to plant an additional set of tomatoes once three weeks have passed since you planted the original ones. If you plant everything at the same time, you will have an overabundance followed by nothing.

You can get rid of slugs with a simple beer trap. Start by burying a wide-mouth jar in the soil, ensuring that the rim of the jar is just at the soil’s surface. Fill it with beer to about one inch below the top of the jar. The beer attracts these slugs, but traps them in the jar.

TIP! Be sure you know how you should buy plants that you want to add in your organic garden. Keep this in mind when you are purchasing annuals, biennials, and perennials.

To make a credible claim that your crops are organically grown, you should be certified as organic by a credible organization. This attracts customers who are willing to drive a little farther and pay a little more for products that are safe and healthy.

TIP! Keep your leaves and use them in your organic compost pile. When you put leaves into your garden, the soil can take advantage of nutrients as the leaves decompose.

Use these tips to bring life back to your garden. Your plants and shrubs will thank you from the bottoms of their roots. Horticulture could become your new hobby and be a real source of happiness for you.

Huge Profits From Growing Your Own Microgarden

~ craigb

TIP! Find some plants that will give you a higher yield. A hybrid designed for your weather, and resistant to local diseases, will give a better yield than non-hybrids.

As the desire to make gardens organic becomes more popular, it is found that the overall holistic lifestyle is starting to be the way to go. People who want to develop a more environmentally friendly attitude may not know where to start to reap the benefits of organic gardening. This article will provide some great tips to help you explore the world of organic gardening.

TIP! If your plants have a powdery mildew, don’t use expensive chemicals on them. Mix some baking soda and a very small amount of liquid soap into water.

Your plants need to adapt and must be gradually introduced to changes in temperature or condition. When starting the transition, leave the plants in the sun for just 1-2 hours. Then over the next week, gradually increase the time they are in their new habitat. By the end of the week, your plants should be ready to make the big move with no problem!

TIP! If you want the best results, you need to choose the right soil. Your soil may not be correct, but it depends on what sorts of plants you want to grow.

It can be very hard to shovel clay soil, especially when it sticks to your shovel as you are working. Simplify the process by putting a bit of wax onto the shovel. The clay won’t stick then. The wax will enable the clay soil to simply slide off the shovel, and will also prevent the shovel from rusting.

TIP! Deciduous shrubs and young trees need to be protected. Cold weather is very hard on these tender shrubs, and potted shrubs should be shielded and protected.

As fall arrives, it is the time to prepare for planting fall edibles. Why not plant lettuce and kale inside a hollowed-out pumpkin? Cut an opening in the pumpkin and scoop the insides out. Then spray the edges and empty inside of the pumpkin with Wilt-Pruf so the pumpkin doesn’t rot. After that, your pumpkin planter is ready to use!

Knee Pads

TIP! A great garden starts from the seeds and not from the plants. Starting from seed is far less harsh on the environment than using plants you buy at the nursery.

If your landscape includes low-growing plants, you should invest in a set of knee pads specifically designed for horticulture. Gardening can really put a lot of pressure on your knees that will leave you cramped and uncomfortable. A set of quality knee pads designed for horticulture can be a world of relief for your central leg joints.

TIP! To grow peas, try growing them indoors first, instead of outside. When the plants are started inside, the seeds will have an easier time germinating.

The best way to start a garden is from first principles: seeds. When you begin a garden, it’s most eco friendly to do so with seed. The planters used to hold nursery plants are generally not made from eco-friendly materials, and thus get thrown into landfills. Starting from seeds, or buying from one of the few nurseries that use biodegradable planters, prevents this.

TIP! Buy a wheelbarrow and kneeling stool to work with in the garden. In order to relieve stress on your knees when gardening, always use a small garden stool to be more comfortable.

Spread a little bit of organic mulch, around two inches worth, in and about each vegetable plant. The soil around plants can stay damper through the use of mulch. It will also prevent weeds from popping up around your plants. This can prevent you from having to constantly pull weeds.

Produce Berries

TIP! Prior to working in the garden, make sure any cuts on your hands heal completely, or shield any cuts from contact with chemicals and dirt. Your cut could get infected if you’re dealing with grime and dirt when gardening.

Think about planting evergreen plants that will produce berries in the backyard. This will allow your garden to have color, even in the dreary winter months. Some examples of evergreens that produce berries and color in the wintertime are the American Holly, Cranberrybush, the Winterberry and the Common Snowberry.

TIP! Having a garden of perennials can be an easy and quick process. Simply slice into the ground with a spade, flip the top layer of soil, and then cover it with several inches of wood chips.

It can be tough to keep insects and other plant-ruining crawlies from infesting your garden. Don’t spray harsh chemicals since they will spoil your veggies. Persistence and care is a much better solution for pest control, but many avoid it because it actually requires some work on their behalf. When pests are noticed early, the best way to get rid of them is to remove then from the plants by hand.

TIP! Plant your seeds carefully, taking your time. To begin with, you need to dampen the soil sufficiently.

Use only pesticides designed to kill the specific type of pest in your garden, and avoid the broad-spectrum kind. These pesticides will kill every type of pest in your garden, including beneficial bugs that eat garden pests. Useful insects are more sensitive to these pesticides than the pests, so by killing them, you could be growing your pest population. If this happens, you just fuel an expanding cycle of needing even more pesticides.

TIP! Pine makes a much better mulch than you might think. Some garden plants have a higher acidity, and prefer a more acidic soil.

Scent the grass around your garden with old perfume or discarded aftershave to prevent your dog from wandering into your garden. This will mask the garden smell that is attracting your dog, and it will make it a less appealing place for your dog to visit.

TIP! Is there a natural way to kill weeds? Try using several newspaper layers to control weeds. Weeds can only grow when there is adequate sunlight.

If you are gardening with a cut, make sure that you adequately protect it from dirt and chemicals. A cut that has come into contact with extraneous materials like dirt can become seriously infected. However, there are bandages available that will seal the cut completely. Using these should protect the cut from any infection while gardening.

TIP! Too much water can be harmful to your plants because the excess water can hinder the ability of the roots to acquire nutrients from the soil. Before watering plants outdoors, check with some weather stations to find out if it will rain anytime during the day.

Prepare the ground for a perennial garden quickly and easily. Using a garden spade, dig underneath the turf and flip it. Then, create a layer of wood chips at least three inches deep over the area you just flipped. Give the area a couple of weeks, then dig into it and plant your new perennials.

TIP! Try cultivating organic gardening. Plant some individual garlic cloves into well-drained soil in early spring.

One of the most important things to consider when plotting your garden is to make note of your available space. It is easy to underestimate the amount of space that the plants will take up once they start to grow. Your plants will need the space not only because of their physical size, but also because the space will provide air circulation for the garden. Plan your garden accordingly, and make sure the right distance is between the seeds.

TIP! Plant twice- three weeks after planting tomatoes in the organic garden, plant more seeds. You will not have to harvest the tomatoes at the same time.

When planting seeds you should cover them with fine soil. Determine its depth by looking at the seed’s size and multiplying it by three. Some seeds need to be in direct sunlight, though, so you need to know information about each type of seed. These seeds include petunias and ageratum. The directions for how to handle the seeds will usually be found on the seed’s package. You can also find this information online.

TIP! When you think about how you want to water your garden, look into a soaker hose, this is the best option available to you. This type of hose allows you to water roots directly without wetting the plants’ leaves.

Use these tips and think about some ideas of your own. Organic horticulture can become a part of your life. This article is just the tip of the ice-berg when it comes to organic gardening information.