knee pads

Learn More About Organic Gardening By Taking This Advice

~ craigb

TIP! Pick your plants with an eye to maximize the yield you can get. A plant that is resistant to disease, or one that is tolerant of extreme weather, will deliver a higher yield.

One of the most sensible ways to improve your diet is through organic gardening. However, effort is required in order to effectively grow. It can sometimes seem overwhelming to get started in organic gardening.

TIP! Start your plants in containers, and then transplant the seedlings into the garden later on. This insures that the plants will grow and thrive into adulthood.

To prevent your plants’ systems from becoming shocked, you need to gradually transition them from higher to lower temperatures. The first day you transfer your plants, you should only allow them to sit in direct sunlight for a few hours. Over the week, try gradually increasing the time they’re left outside. By the time the week ends, your plants will be ready for their big move and should have no problems!

TIP! Brighten up your flower beds with annuals and biennials. These flowers grow quickly and can be planted at any time during the year.

To achieve the best growing results, plants need sufficient carbon dioxide. Plants will not thrive if they don’t have an adequate amount of CO2. Growing plants in a greenhouse is the best way to contain CO2 for use by your plants. Make sure to keep CO2 levels high to provide the best growing environment for your plants.

TIP! When winter arrives, transfer some plants into the house to save them. Think about saving your resistant plants or the expensive ones.

Stinkbugs can be a nuisance in the garden. These bugs are known to be proliferate in the cooler fall months. Stink bugs prefer peppers, beans, tomatoes, and various varieties of 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.

Knee Pads

TIP! Carefully plan your garden first. This will assist you in recognizing your tiny plants when they start to pop up.

If your landscape includes low-growing plants, you should invest in a set of knee pads specifically designed for gardening. Spending lots of time on your knees while horticulture can injure them and create lasting pain. Having a pair of excellent knee pads for gardening can help cushion the knees to provide additional comfort.

TIP! Take extra care of any fragile shrubs that are known to drop their leaves in the autumn. Tender, potted shrubs must be protected when the weather is cold.

Do you like mint, but not how they ruin your garden? Keep your mint growth under control by planting them in pots and/or garden containers. By using a separate containment unit, you are limiting the plant’s ability to spread its roots and subsequently grow like wildfire. You can even plant the entire pot so that it still looks just like another plant in your garden.

TIP! If many of the plants in your garden grow close to the ground, some gardening knee pads will prevent pain and knee injuries. The amount of time that you spend gardening on your knees can make your knees hurt by the time you are done.

See to it that you fertilize your garden. One type of fertilizer that really helps plants grow is manure, but be sure to utilize a type that is commercially composted to reduce the chances of pathogens. 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! Many people delight in the taste of fresh mint leaves, but become frustrated when the plant spreads wildly. That’s why it’s better to place mint in containers rather than letting it have free rein in your garden.

In order to rid your garden of pests, take advantage of plant materials and other organic matter. A good way to keep slugs away is to create a border with onions around a garden with vegetables. Marigolds would do this trick as well. If you place wood ash around the base portion of a shrub seedling or tree, you will ward off insect pests. Using methods like these eliminates the need for chemical pesticides, which can be harsh or even harmful.

TIP! In order to start the best garden possible, remember that you should always start with the seeds and not pre-purchased plants. Starting with your own seeds is more environmentally friendly than buying plants from a nursery.

To ensure a healthy garden, make sure you surround your plants with a few inches of good organic mulch. Mulch is used to keep extra moisture and provide nutrients for your plants. It can also prevent weeds from growing. You will be able to save the time you would spend watering your plants and pulling out weeds.

TIP! If you are a first time gardener, it is important that you follow all of the instructions on all of your tools and chemicals. If you use your gardening chemicals wrong, you can abrade or even burn your skin.

Take a look at planting berry-producing evergreens in your yard. These year-round berries will give the rest of your yard a much-needed pop of color, especially in the winter. The American Holly, American Cranberrybush, the Winterberry, and the Common Snowberry help provide color during the winter.

TIP! To create an attractive, quintessentially English garden, you need to use a mixture of different plants that all grow to varying heights in each bed. If you use plants that are all the same size your garden will look flat.

Choose one stand-out plant to be a focal point. Any great garden design involves using a focal point to grab someone’s attention and keep it there. Frequently, it will be a plant that’s very different from others in the neighborhood.

TIP! When you are organic gardening, ask your children to lend a hand. The benefits for your children will be a closer bond with nature and an understanding of where food comes from.

Avoid damage from the sun by dressing correctly when you garden. Pair sunglasses with wide-brimmed hats and a dab of sunblock. Using the right protection from the harmful rays of the sun means less of a chance of you getting sunburn and skin cancer.

TIP! If you are growing plants organically indoors, you have to consider the light that they are getting. If you live somewhere without strong natural sunlight, you might want to look into growing plants that thrive in lower-light environments.

If little ones live in your home, consider including everbearing strawberries in the garden plot. You will find that they enjoy participating in gardening if they are allowed to pluck the fresh berries and eat them straight from the earth.

TIP! Make the most of the time spent in your garden. One of the biggest time wasters is not keeping track of your tools and having to look for them every time you need them.

You never want to do any horticulture with open wounds, so make sure everything is completely healed up before you begin; otherwise, you run the risk of your cut being exposed to dangerous chemicals and dirt. A cut will likely become infected if it is exposed to dirt when horticulture. You can get bandages that can completely seal your cut.

TIP! Use equal parts of green and dried plant material in your compost pile. Green plant material consists of spent flowers, veggie and fruit waste, leaves, weeds, and grass clippings.

Take your time when planting seeds. You need to start by adding moisture to the soil. Take the seeds and place them evenly across the horticulture area, giving them plenty of space to grow. The depth at which you bury them should be three times their size. Make sure you are not burying the seeds that need light to grow.

TIP! Organic gardening is harder than relying on chemicals, but the results are worth it. Although chemical fertilizers and pesticides can offer impressive claims, choosing the organic route will always yield the best food in the end.

Make horticulture efficient. By having your tools in one location, you will not spend hours looking for them. Keep your tools well-maintained and stored away in a designated place. That way you always know where they are and they are ready to use when you need them. You may also wish to invest in a tool belt to keep all of your tools within reach while horticulture.

TIP! The ideal way to water your organic garden is with a soaker hose. The water comes out very slowly and evenly, and the hose can be placed exactly where water is needed, such as at the roots.

In conclusion, creating and maintaining an organic garden requires hard work, effort and research. For the best possible results, one must be willing to put forth a lot of energy into their gardening. If you keep the tips provided here in mind, you can find your way to organic gardening success. Enjoy your harvest!

Tired Of Chemicals? Grow An Organic Garden With These Tips

~ craigb

TIP! Use your tool handles as rulers in the garden. Tools with long handles, such as a shovel or rake, are absolutely perfect for this job, and make your workload a little bit smaller.

Taking the time to use good gardening practices really shows in the end. It shows that you care about taking care of your plants and that you want them to grow up healthy. This is an admirable thing. However, you can always find new things to learn about, and improve your skills. Read this article to become a better gardener.

TIP! Plant perennials that are slug-proof. These creatures can wreak havoc on a garden in a short time.

It may be helpful to let your plants begin their life in a pot and to transfer them to your garden when they’re seedlings. By allowing them to sprout first, you are increasing the odds of a seedling reaching maturity. This also helps tighten time between plantings. The seedlings are ready to go, once you remove the mature plants.

TIP! Having healthy soil in your garden will help your plants avoid insect pests. Healthy soil encourages vigorous plant growth and makes your garden more resistant to common diseases and insects.

Get a slug-proof variety of perennials. Slugs and snails are voracious eaters that can destroy a plant literally overnight. They’re particularly fond of perennials with smooth and thin leaves, especially if the plants are young. Some perennials are not preferred meals for snails and slugs, especially if their foliage is hairy and tough, or tastes bad. Some of the best varieties of these include achillea, campanula, euphorbia, and heuchera.

Knee Pads

TIP! Let your new seeds soak in a dark spot overnight. Drop your seeds into a small jar that is filled with cold water.

If many of the plants in your garden grow close to the ground, some horticulture knee pads will prevent pain and knee injuries. You will end up spending a good deal of time on your knees and this can cause a lot of pain by the end of the day. Having a pair of excellent knee pads for gardening can help cushion the knees to provide additional comfort.

TIP! In order to rid your garden of pests, take advantage of plant materials and other organic matter. A border of marigolds or onions around your veggies can prevent slugs.

You could try to boil weeds if you are trying to remain organic. One of the safest “herbicides” you can find is a pot of boiling water. Just pour boiling water directly on top of the weeds cautiously to avoid damaging your plants. Boiling water is not good for the weed roots and will stunt further growth.

TIP! Apply organic mulch generously around your vegetable plants. Mulch helps the soil surrounding the plants remain moister for a longer time.

Think about using evergreens in your yard that produce berries during the year. 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. Some examples include Holly, Snowberry trees, Winterberry and similar plants.

TIP! Keeping pests out of a vegetable garden can be difficult. The vegetables are intended to be eaten, thus you should refrain from using harsh pesticides and chemicals.

To keep your dog out of your garden, spray old perfume, aftershave, or other scented items in the grass around it. 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! Plant items with fall color. That doesn’t have to be it though.

Any time that you are gardening in direct sunlight, dress appropriately to prevent skin damage. Wear sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and sunblock. Wearing sun protection is important to help ward off the unnecessary pain of sunburn, and it will help lessen your skin cancer risk, too.

TIP! Be careful how you water your garden. Soaker hoses save time by watering all of your plants at once, rather than individually with a standard hose or watering can.

Heather is a magnet for friendly insects. Heather attracts bees, and when they come out in the spring, this provides an early nectar source. It is common to find all types of insects inside of an undisturbed heather bed. Protect yourself from being surprised by these bugs by donning gardening gloves before disturbing your heather beds.

TIP! Always dress appropriately when gardening in order to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. Make sure you wear a wide brimmed hat along with sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.

Your children will enjoy the experience of working with you in the organic garden. Growing a garden offers a unique learning experience, and you and your child can grow closer while growing healthy food for your family.

TIP! Grow heather so that you can attract useful insects. Heather is great for getting bees to stop by at the beginning of spring, as heather plants have nectar available early in the season.

Plants growing in your home need a constant temperature of no less than 65 degrees. Indoor plants grow best at these warm temperatures. You can also buy a heat lamp to maintain ideal conditions for your inside plants during the winter.

TIP! If you have a cut on your hand, take the time to make sure it is either healed or completely covered before you put your hands in the soil. A cut will likely become infected if it is exposed to dirt when gardening.

When you are working in your garden, you will want to have all of your tools in a convenient location. Don’t spend 30 minutes searching for a tool. Have all of your tools gathered and prepared for use before you work in the garden, and make sure to put them away neatly. Even something like a carpenter’s tool belt or some cargo jeans work well to keep tools organized.

Pine Needles

TIP! A good way to plant seeds is in containers. Plant them three times as deep as their overall size.

Do not overlook the benefits of pine mulch for your garden. Many types of plants thrive in soil that has high acid levels. If you have some of these plants, then pine needles are an easy way to add acid to their bed. Cover the plots with pine needles. As the pine needles decay, they’ll raise the soil’s acidity.

TIP! Every year, you should plant different things and in different places. If you keep planting the same thing in a particular area every year, it can cause a buildup of disease in the soil.

A good general rule when planting your seeds into containers is that the depth of the planting should be about three times the size of the seed. However, it is important to understand that some seeds require sunlight and should never be covered. Among the seeds meeting this definition are ageratum and petunias. If you don’t know whether your seeds require sun exposure, check the seed package or search online for the information.

Treated Wood

TIP! When deciding which plants you want to focus your organic gardening efforts on, you should be as specific as possible. You will need to cultivate specific environments for various vegetables and plants.

Use untreated stone, brick or wood to build raised beds. If you choose wood, ensure that it has not been treated with a sealant or other chemicals. Some good woods are locust, cedar and cypress. In order to avoid toxic substances from getting into the ground and perhaps into your vegetables, avoid using treated wood to enclose or demarcate different sections of your vegetable garden. If your existing garden structure contains treated wood, at least take the time to make a plastic lining beneath the soil.

TIP! Plant your landscaping trees in places that will provide shade for your home. You can get more savings on energy bills because the shade you get from the trees will cool your home naturally.

You have the tools, the products, and the skill set to apply those tips to your organic garden. This is a positive thing. Learning is a constant process, so use the insights gained here to enhance your skills in organic gardening. Hopefully, you’ve learned things that will help make your organic garden beautiful.

Tips For Great Organic Horticulture

~ craigb

TIP! Shoveling clay is very difficult and lots of work because the clay is hard and sticks to the shovel, making it tough to handle. Rub a thin layer of floor or car wax over the surface of the shovel, and then buff the surface using a clean cloth.

Depending on the effort you put into it, an organic garden can be a great pleasure or a great pain. If you want to be a great organic gardener, follow these hints.

TIP! A good way to ensure that your seeds sprout effectively is to start them in smaller pots and then transplant them once they reach the seedling stage. Your plants will have a better chance of getting big and healthy! The period between plantings will also be shorter.

Gradually acclimate plants to temperature changes and conditions, if you want to avoid shocking them. Try placing them outside in sunlight for about an hour or maybe two the first day. Over the week, try gradually increasing the time they’re left outside. Once the transition is complete, your plants will probably be able to tolerate the outdoor conditions.

TIP! Slug-proof your garden with smart perennial choices. Slugs and snails will quickly destroy your garden if you let them.

Beginning your garden with healthy soil is your first defense against pests! The hearty plants that will grow in a garden with rich soil can resist the bugs and diseases that weak plants can’t withstand. So if you want your garden to provide plants that are as healthy as possible, you need a good quality soil that contains few chemicals and that can accumulate salts over time.

TIP! Try using annuals and biennials to add color to your flower beds, and brighten them up. These usually grow quickly, and provide an easy-to-change solution to making your flower beds bright and beautiful.

Brighten your garden with biennials and annuals. These fast growing flowers let you change how your flower bed looks season to season. Use them to fill gaps between shrubs and perennials in the sun. Some examples include sunflowers, marigolds, petunias, hollyhocks, cosmos, and rudbeckia.

Baking Soda

TIP! When fall has arrived, it is time to plant the edibles for the autumn. Rather than using clay pots or planters for your lettuce and kale, plant them in a pumpkin! Simply carve open the top of a pumpkin so you can remove the innards, and then spray inside and out with something like Wilt-Pruf to prevent pumpkin rotting.

If you see mildew that is powdery, stay away from expensive chemicals to treat it. Plain water with a bit of liquid soap and baking soda will do the trick. Spray this mix on your plants every week and the mildew should go away. Do not worry about your plants; the baking soda cannot harm them.

TIP! As the weather turns colder, it is important to prepare your sensitive shrubs for the change. Cold weather is very hard on these tender shrubs, and potted shrubs should be shielded and protected.

Plant bulbs if you want spring and summer flowers. These are hearty choices, choices that will reward you for years despite the little effort that is involved in their care. The types of bulbs you use will determine the time of year your flowers will bloom, giving you the pleasure of blooms from spring to summer, if you plant them right.

TIP! When you boil vegetables, use the leftover water on your potted plants. You may fertilize the soil with tea or coffee for plants that favor acidic environments, like rhododendrons and gardenias.

If your garden includes vegetables, make sure you plant them in a location whether they are exposed to sunlight for a minimum of six hours each day. Most members of the vegetable family need this minimum of light for proper growth. This is true of some flowers.

Knee Pads

TIP! Take care of your knees while working in the garden. Many people experience back pain and stiffness from bending over and working in the garden for extended amounts of time.

If your plants do not grown very tall, try buying some knee pads used for horticulture. Kneeling on the ground as you garden will eventually cause serious discomfort for your knees. Using a pair of quality knee pads designed for gardening can provide your knees with cushioning and support, preventing any discomfort.

TIP! Use plastic bags to cover muddy gardening shoes. This way, you can maintain your momentum and head right back to your garden so that you can finish what you were doing.

Make sure air can circulate around your plants, and keep leaves moisture-free. Moisture can be a magnet for disease and parasites on your plants. A common parasite to plants is fungi. Sprays and liquids exist that are perfect for killing the fungi, but be sure you use it on the area before the fungi actually appear.

TIP! Pine needles should not be overlooked as a great source for mulch. Some plants need acidic soil to grow properly, because of their own acid content.

Controlling pests in your vegetable garden can be extremely difficult to deal with. Don’t spray harsh chemicals since they will spoil your veggies. One way to control gardening pests is to be vigilant. If you catch them early, you can take them off the plants by hand.

TIP! Increase your property value with landscaping. One of the best things you can do to increase property value is to have proper landscaping.

Have one plant be the most interesting eye-grabber in your garden. A focal point in the garden will capture your attention. The focal point should be a plant totally different from the others around it.

TIP! If you sell your crops and label them organic, you should get an organic garden certified seal. Having this certification will create a lot of trust with customers.

In order to maximize the efficiency of your horticulture, ensure your horticulture tools are kept close by you. Keep the tools in a big bucket, or store them in strong pockets in your pants. Have shears, a trowel, gloves and other commonly used garden tools portable and easy to access.

TIP! A biologically diverse garden is one of the most interesting and rewarding kinds. The more types of plants you have, the more kinds of wildlife you’ll have.

Space is important to remember when planting an organic garden. People often underestimate how much space plants will need when once they’re grown. You will need to provide this space to provide ample room and because you need air circulating to your garden. Plant the plants appropriately when it comes to spacing the seeds.

TIP! For the best results when gardening, the hole you dig for your plants should be very rustic; think jagged, rough and unappealing. When holes you have dug end up with slick sides due to the shovel you used, it is possible that the roots may not be able to sink into the soil properly.

To be able to say you have legitimate organic and credible crops, you will need to be certified as having an organic garden. This will improve your sales and show your faithful customers that they are getting the best possible food that is grown.

TIP! For flowers and trees, use three inches of organic material as mulch. By using mulch, you will be able to save money on your water bill and help your plants grow.

When choosing plants, dig a little deeper. Oftentimes, tomato seedlings that show verdant green starts have poor roots. The first start remains attached to the developing seedlings for many weeks. Until these sneaky starts fall away, the plant will not grow.

TIP! Weeds are a recurring issue in both organic and traditional gardens. This will help kill off weeds without harming you or the environment.

Before putting shrubs or trees in an organic garden, dig an uneven hole in which to place them. If the hole that you create for them has any “glazed” sides that were caused by a shovel, then it may restrict the root from penetrating into the nearby soil.

Even organic gardens can have trouble with weeds. This organic weed killer is safe for the environment and you.

TIP! Leaves make a great organic compost that you can mix with soil. When the leaves decompose, they turn into a nutrient rich organic compost, providing a healthy addition to your garden soil.

You should put a lot of thought into selecting the plants that will go in your all-natural garden. This is especially true when buying annuals or perennials. Avoid getting ones that are in bloom. You only want ones that have become budded and nothing more. The root system will grow stronger in budded plants than in blooming plants.

TIP! Use plenty of mulch so that your home garden can save water. A greater amount of mulch means less frequent watering of the garden.

Know your organic garden and when the plants are needing water. Obtain a soaker hose to use for the watering. Soaker hoses can provide water directly to your plants’ bases. This stops the water from evaporating, which causes plants to lose moisture and become dehydrated after being watered. Try to do your watering early in the morning before the sun is at its strongest.

Organic Gardening

TIP! Plant dwarf fruit trees in small gardens. Many gardens have tight space requirements, especially if you live in a large city.

As this article has demonstrated, organic gardening is more complex than some may think. While creating a lovely organic garden takes a lot of effort, the results are more than worth the work. Utilizing the advice provided in this article will definitely help you improve your organic gardening techniques.

How To Grow A Beautiful Organic Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Think about planting your seeds in indoor pots and then transplanting them to your garden once they become seedlings. This increases the chance that your plants will survive to adulthood.

There are many people who’d like to have their own organic garden, but not many take the time to actually create one. It can seem like a daunting task to learn all that it takes to have a successful garden the natural way. You can use the information in this article to learn how to garden with ease, and you may actually find yourself enjoying it.

TIP! If you are gardening, be wary of stink bugs in your garden, especially in the autumn. Stink bugs enjoy gardens, and are especially fond of fruit, tomatoes, beans and peppers.

Plan your garden before you plant it. This helps you remember where each plant was planted before they begin to sprout. A good plan can also help you to place each plant in the area that is most beneficial to them.

TIP! You must be sure to remove all of the weeds that grow in your garden. Weeds can take over a healthy garden faster than you think.

If your landscape includes low-growing plants, you should invest in a set of knee pads specifically designed for horticulture. Long hours spent in the garden will wreak havoc on your knees. With good knee pads, you can stay in the garden longer, and more comfortably.

TIP! Let your new seeds soak in a dark spot overnight. Simply place a handful of seeds in a container, cover the seeds up with water, and stash it away.

Be sure your garden is fertilized. Manure can help your plants grow quickly, but you must use only commercially created products to reduce the chance of contracting pathogens. Many types of fertilizers are available. The type you utilize is not critical; just be sure to use one.

TIP! A simple way to lower the alkaline content of your soil is to dilute it with coffee grounds. This is an easy and inexpensive solution to increase the acid content back into the soil.

Purchase a wheelbarrow, and a kneeling stool to use in your garden. Working on the ground for long periods of time can be painful on the knees, so a small garden stool can really allow you to work in comfort. Horticulture involves moving heavy objects and dirt, so a wheelbarrow makes for a wise investment.

TIP! It’s easy to just jump in and start gardening without thought, but it’s important to plan your garden first. This is a good way to remember which plants have been planted in each area before they grow.

Learn the best harvest time for each vegetable. Each variety of vegetable has a specific time to be harvested so that you may enjoy its fullest flavor. For instance, peas and zucchinis are tastiest when picked young. However, you get better taste out of tomatoes that have been allowed to ripen as much as practical while still on their vine. So, it is good to learn about the best time to harvest your vegetables.

TIP! Make sure air can circulate around your plants, and keep leaves moisture-free. Parasites are attracted to the moisture on plants.

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. Using this will cover up the odors that your dog likes and will cut down on the intrigue of your landscaping for your furry friend.

TIP! If you want to grow peas, consider starting them indoors instead of planting them outside. When you plant the seeds indoors, your seeds will start to germinate better.

Pay attention to how much light your indoor plants are getting. If your home does not let in sufficient light, then consider getting plants that thrive in low-light situations. Otherwise, you could simply use your own lights.

TIP! Familiarize yourself with the optimum harvesting time of your vegetables. Every vegetable has a proper time to be picked in order to capture the perfect flavor.

Perennial gardens should be prepared easily and quickly in the ground. 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. Allow for at least 10 days to pass, then plant the perennials that you just purchased.

TIP! Create a focal point in your garden with a unique plant. Any great garden design involves using a focal point to grab someone’s attention and keep it there.

It never hurts to keep a few bags around the house to protect your floors from dirty horticulture shoes. This lets you be able to return to the garden without interrupting your work.

TIP! If you have recently sustained a cut, you should allow it to heal entirely before toiling in your garden. If you simply cannot wait to get back to gardening, you should at least cover the cut to protect it.

Get more profits from your property. If you are looking for high returns, landscaping gets you a lot of your money back. You can raise your home value up to 20 percent! Look for hardy, low moisture plants that are naturally suited for your region.

Organic Farming

TIP! If you plan to raise organic plants inside, you need to think about how much light they will get. The amount of light available can determine which type of organic plants you should grow.

Though organic farming can present challenges that traditional farming with the use of chemicals does not, harvesting the crops is reward itself for the hard work. Though the use of chemicals has its own benefits, organic farming is a rewarding experience that ends with natural, healthy produce.

TIP! Once your seeds have germinated they will not need to be kept as warm as before. Move your plants away from the heat as they grow.

Gardening, especially organic gardening, helps you feel more “at one” with the earth. Organic gardening techniques allow you to be involved in the entire planting and growing process, while using only the safest and most sustainable resources.

TIP! Pine is a wonderful mulch so do not discard the idea. A number of plants commonly grown in garden settings do best in an acidic soil.

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 will allow the water to seep slowly into the soil straight to the plant’s roots. Soaker hoses need less water than their sprinkler counterparts, and it takes less of your time to use one than it does to water each plant by hand.

TIP! Aim to increase your property’s value. Landscaping provides some of the best home improvement returns.

Think about what types of products you can use on your garden. Try natural or organic alternatives to the usual chemical fertilizers. If you haven’t already tried it, consider making your own compost. Compared with chemical-based approaches, organic methods are safer for both the people and the planet.

TIP! A good thing to know when it comes to your organic garden, and running it, is to, a couple times a day, lightly ruffle the seedlings with cardboard or your hand. Believe it or not, aerating the soil in this manner can actually make your seedlings grow larger.

Healthy soil results in healthy plants capable of standing up to diseases and insects. When the insects are present, you’re not having to deal with their damage, so you’re all happy.

TIP! Grow crops that are expensive to buy. Think about the different types of grasses, vegetables and flowers that you enjoy most.

Know when to buy plants to be added into your organic garden. You should definitely keep this in mind when you buy perennials and annuals. They should be bought budded, yet still not in bloom. That way, the plants will have the ability to build sturdy roots within your garden.

TIP! You can get fertilizer by making compost from scratch. You can do this by creating a worm composting bin.

If you plan to plant trees in your yard, you should arrange them in a way that they will provide the most shade for your house. Your energy bills will reflect this maneuver as your home will be naturally cooled by the shade from the tree.

TIP! If you plant things in your organic garden during the winter, construct a garden tent using materials you can find around the house. Use an old bean pole, or something similar, and place them in the ground at the end of your beds.

Once you know more about organic gardening, getting started should not be so intimidating. If you make proper use of the advice you have learned, you will soon be able to reap a bountiful harvest from your organic garden.

Tips And Techniques For A Great Organic Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Start your plants in containers before transferring them to the garden. This boosts the chance that the plants can survive to adulthood.

Tending a garden is a relaxing past-time that can also serve as therapy. Before planting your garden, research the proper type of soil, the garden tools you will need and what time of the year your seeds should be planted. Continue reading to get some handy guidance that can help you in your horticulture efforts.

TIP! When winter arrives, you can save some plants by placing them in your home. Maybe you’d like to save the most expensive plants you have or the most resistant.

Try planting seeds in pots, and then transferring the seedlings to your garden. Doing this betters your odds of your plants making it to adulthood. This will also allow you to stick to a tighter, cleaner planting schedule. The seedlings are reading for planting immediately after you remove older plants.

TIP! For the best results, select the right kind of soil. You should choose your soil depending on the plants that you are going to plant.

You do not need store-bought chemical treatments for plant mildew. Mix a bit of liquid soap and some baking soda into water. Spray this on the plants once per week until that mildew goes away. Your plants will not be harmed by the baking soda, but the mildew will definitely not like it!

TIP! If you want a strange, yet successful, green answer to getting rid of weeds, boil them to death. Water is cheaper than chemical herbicides, and less hazardous to humans and soil.

In order for plants to grow, they must have enough CO2. More CO2 generally produces more luxurious plant growth. The best way to get higher CO2 for your plants is to grow them in a greenhouse. Here the CO2 can be increased, as it cannot be outdoors, and can give your plants the best conditions for rapid growth.

TIP! Allow enough room between plants for air to circulate, so that plants do not stay too wet. Excess moisture on a plant will invite unwanted parasites or diseases to the plant.

Be sure to get rid of the weeds growing in your garden. If you’re not careful, weeds can take over your beautiful garden, ruining it. White vinegar can be used as a natural herbicide. That’s right, you have safe way to get rid of weeds right there in your kitchen cabinet. If you don’t want to take the time to remove the weeds by hand, simply spray them with a white vinegar solution.

TIP! You should get a wheelbarrow and a kneeling stool for garden work. In order to relieve stress on your knees when gardening, always use a small garden stool to be more comfortable.

Make sure that your deciduous shrubs are protected. Any potted shrubs should be sheltered in the winter from cold weather. Tie together the tops. Once the canes are snugly together, put a sheet over the wigwam. People sometimes use plastic to wrap their plants, but plastic can cause the plants to rot because it impedes air circulation.

Knee Pads

TIP! To give them a boost, pour out any leftover water from steaming or boiling vegetables on the plants or soil around them. Add coffee grounds or tea leaves to the soil of acid-loving plants like rhododendron and gardenia.

A set of knee pads are a life saver if you’re an avid gardener and a lot of your plants sit close to the ground. The time that you will have to spend on your knees in your garden can cause you unnecessary knee pain. Knee pads offer your knees the extra cushioning they need to stay comfortable during extended periods in the garden.

TIP! Plan your garden, and plant with fall colors in mind. That idea is actually far from the truth.

Are you one of the millions who loves some fresh mint leaves, yet you absolutely hate the way they tend to take over any garden they are planted within? Instead of planting mint in your garden, keep it in a large container or pot to prevent it from spreading. 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.

TIP! Try to put an aspirin in the water to get rid of plant diseases. Dissolve three aspirin in four gallons of water.

Broad-spectrum pesticide is not a good garden choice. These pesticides will also kill any beneficial insects that consume the pests you are trying to get rid of. Bugs that provide a benefit to your garden are more easily killed by these broad-spectrum pesticides, you may simply end up with a bigger pest problem. This will leave you using even more pesticides to fix the problem.

TIP! Before you start any gardening, make sure that you do not have any open wounds on your hands. If you do, you need to wear protection from dirt and chemicals so that they do not get into your cut.

You don’t have to plant just for spring and summer. Consider what are often beautiful colors in the fall. That doesn’t have to be, however. The foliage in the fall probably exudes more color than any other season. Maple, beech, and dogwood display colors ranging from dark crimson to light yellow. There are practically as many types of shrubs chosen for their fall colors are there are gardeners! Barberry, hydrangea and cotoneaster are particularly popular choices.

TIP! Store a few plastic bags near your garden to slip on over your dirty gardening shoes. This way, you won’t break momentum by fussing with your shoes, and you’ll be quickly back in the garden to finish your work.

Add some heather plants to your garden, to attract good insects. Bees like it because it gives them nectar in the springtime. Since a heather bed is normally left undisturbed, ground beetles, spiders and other beneficial insects tend to live inside it. With this in mind, be sure to prune your heather while wearing gardening gloves.

TIP! When planting your organic garden, spacing is an important thing to keep in mind. Do not underestimate the space that plants need to develop their root systems.

Asprin will actually help your plants out by killing diseases. One and half tablets of aspirin in a couple gallons of water will be a wonderful help to the plants you have. All you need to do is spray the plants with the solution in order to battle common ailments. Your plants should be sprayed one time each three weeks.

TIP! Avoid allowing chores in your organic garden stack up. If you’re too busy to do all those little things each day, there are some small steps you can take to not have all that work build up on you.

Make sure any open cuts are completely protected from dirt and chemicals before you go to work in your garden. Cuts have a much higher likelihood of getting infected if they are in contact with dirt when you garden. You can now purchase bandages to seal the cut completely.

TIP! Killing weeds the natural way? You should layer some newspaper to get weeds under control. Weeds cannot grow without light.

Organic indoor plants may need additional light sources to make up for the light they miss out on by being indoors. This needs to be considered. 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 already have plants that need full light and the natural light provided is not sufficient, artificial lights can supplement their needs.

TIP! Any gardening can connect you with Mother Nature, but particularly if you employ organic gardening techniques. Not only does organic gardening provide you with quality food, but also you learn all of the plant’s cycles.

This article has provided information necessary to begin the rewarding activity of horticulture and to do it successfully. As long as you implement the tips and tricks that you learn, you will have great results. A beautiful garden requires the right tools, soil, water and sunlight.

Need Help With Organic Gardening? Try These Ideas

~ craigb

TIP! Lay sod properly. Be sure to get your soil prepared before you start laying the new sod.

Many people want an organic garden, but never try it. Some may feel overwhelmed by all that needs to be done in order to create an organic garden. Read through this article and you can gain better insight on what it takes to start and grow your own organic garden; it’s not as hard as it may seem.

TIP! Use annuals and biennials to brighten your flower garden. Fast growing biennials and annuals will brighten a garden and permit you to change looks from one season to another.

Learn how to properly lay sod. Your soil should be prepared before you lay the sod. Eradicate any weeds and work the soil until it is very fine. Next, you want to make the soil compacted by applying light but firm pressure. Make sure the soil creates a flat surface. Gently sprinkle water on the soil until you are certain that it is thoroughly moistened. You should lay your sod staggered, and have the joints offset. Pat down the sod and fill any gaps with soil. Sod must be watered every day for about two weeks, and then it will have rooted and be completely ready to be walked on.

TIP! If you have a wall or fence that you do not like, plant climbers to mask its appearance. These climbing plants will help beautify an old fence, and they are fast workers too.

During winter, you should take your favorite plants inside. You may be able to save your most resistant or expensive plants. When you dig up the plant, carefully avoid the roots then place it in a container.

TIP! Be sure to do some weeding on a regular basis. Weeds can take over a healthy garden faster than you think.

For the right results, get the right type of soil. The soil that is already in your garden might need amending, depending on the particular plants that you want to grow. You can also make an artificial plot with just one type of soil.

Soil Analysis

TIP! Ensuring your plants are both dry and aerated is a great way to keep them healthy. Parasites are attracted to the moisture on plants.

Analyze the soil before you even get started with working in a garden. A soil analysis report can be acquired for a nominal fee. You can then use the results of that report to determine if the soil needs to be modified before you begin planting. Many offices of Cooperative Extension will do a soil analysis, and it is important to know how to improve soil so that all crops can grow in it.

TIP! Are fresh mint leaves something you love but cannot stand how quickly they grow all over your garden? You can slow down this growth by planting them inside a pot or container! You can even plant the container in the ground. That way, the roots won’t be able to escape the container, and the plant won’t overrun your garden.

If your garden requires a lot of low work, then save yourself some strain by investing in knee pads. The time that you will have to spend on your knees in your garden can cause you unnecessary knee pain. You can be more comfortable in the garden with a good pair of horticulture knee pads.

TIP! Start your garden by planting seed in small pots. As a green-friendly gardener, you always want to use seeds to start your new plot.

Fresh mint is a wonderful addition to a herb garden, but it can quickly take over your entire yard. Instead of planting mint in your garden, keep it in a large container or pot to prevent it from spreading. You can bury the container so the top is flush with the ground if desired, but the container’s walls will prevent the roots from spreading so that the plant won’t take over your entire garden.

TIP! Pest control is very difficult if you are dealing with your veggie garden. Don’t spray any harsh chemicals on your vegetables because you will be eating them later on.

If you want the best tasting vegetables, learn about the optimum time to harvest them. Every veggie variety has an ideal time frame for picking, so it’s important to catch them when their flavors peak. For instance, zucchini and baby peas have the best taste when you pick them early. Tomatoes, however, should be plucked from the vine the moment they appear ripe. It’s best to learn when the harvest time is for your vegetables.

TIP! Heather can be planted to attract useful insects. Heather is quite alluring to bees; when spring comes along, it provides the bees with a source of nectar early.

Tend to a garden as a way to relax. You can relax and be at peace in many different ways. Of these, horticulture is by far one of the most enjoyable and easiest to start. You do not need to spend a lot of money and you can reap tangible benefits. Great satisfaction will come from raising produce and flowers in your own environment.

TIP! Before planting your favorite perennials, you must first prepare the ground. Slice under the grass with a spade, flip the layer you have lifted over, and spread three inches of wood chips on top.

To make an interesting English garden, mix various plants and plant heights in the same bed. Using plants which grow to the same length or height will make your bed look uniform.

TIP! Once your seeds start sprouting, they do not need as much warmth as they needed before. Your seedlings should be moved away from any heat source.

Allow your children to actively participate in planting your organic garden. Growing a garden offers a unique learning experience, and you and your child can grow closer while growing healthy food for your family.

TIP! When you are planning on growing a garden, you should think about the space you will need to provide a healthy growing area for your plants. People often underestimate how much space plants will need when once they’re grown.

There should be no rush when you are planting a seed. Before taking any other steps, you should first moisturize the soil. Next you need to spread the seeds out evenly so they have the room needed to grow. Multiply the size of each seed by three and bury the seed that deep. Some seeds require direct sunlight to grow, and these should be left on top of the soil.

TIP! You need to avoid chores in your organic garden stacking up. Even if you can’t tend to your garden daily, you can do little things to help so that there is not a huge amount of work to be done when you are ready to get back to it.

If you want to sell your crops, you should become a certified organic gardener. This should improve sales and attract customers who are environmentally conscious. A certification will easily communicate to them that they are getting the best products possible.

TIP! An easy to grow plant to grow in your organic garden is garlic. Plant organic cloves in spring or fall and use moist, drained soil.

Your watering schedule should flow perfectly with the seasons, yet be adjustable according to climate. Other factors that influence how much you need to water include time of day, soil factors and how hard your water is. Avoid watering leaves in a warm and humid climate to prevent leaf fungus from appearing. Make sure that your root system is well-watered.

TIP! 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. In some cases natural insecticides are actually more effective than the synthetic pesticides that are engineered in a lab.

If you want your starts to thrive, take the time to look underneath the ground. After planting tomatoes, for example, you must closely monitor the soil for the first signs of green shoots. Don’t get attached–these hints of green are hiding an underdeveloped root system below the surface of the soil. Starts like these can remain on the seedlings. This will inhibit their growth because they will not be able to grow until they are gone.

TIP! Open your imagination as to what type of plants you would like to plant into your organic garden. Plants that favor an acid soil need adequate mulch.

If you keep these various tips in mind, horticulture should not be so daunting. If you make proper use of the advice you have learned, you will soon be able to reap a bountiful harvest from your organic garden.

Excellent Advice For Giving Your Garden A Makeover.

~ craigb

TIP! Turn the handles of tools you have on hand into rulers to make measurements in your garden. Larger handled tools like rakes, hoes, and shovels make great measuring sticks.

Most likely, you have seen organic foods in your local grocery store or read about them in a newspaper. Organically produced foods typically stand out from the rest. They have special packaging and cost a fortune. You can cut the store out of the equation and save a lot of money by planting your own patch of organic vegetables in the back yard!

Flower Beds

TIP! Make sure to pre-soak seeds, preferably in a dark location. Drop your seeds into a small jar that is filled with cold water.

Give your flower beds a boost by introducing annuals and biennials. These types of flowers grow at high speed, which gives you more flexibility in changing the look of your flower beds as the seasons change. You can fill any spaces between shrubs and perennials when they are in the sun. Notable varieties include cosmos, rudbeckia, petunia, hollyhock, marigold and sunflower.

TIP! If you have a vegetable garden, it is crucial they are kept in a spot with at least six hours of sun each day. Many types of veggies require this amount in order to thrive and produce the food source that you are hoping for.

If your landscape includes low-growing plants, you should invest in a set of knee pads specifically designed for gardening. The time that you will have to spend on your knees in your garden can cause you unnecessary knee pain. Your knees can get supported with a decent pair of gardening knee pads.

TIP! Before you start planting your garden, plan it out. That way, if you see your plants beginning to bud but can’t recall what they are, you can refer back to your plan to refresh your memory.

Broad-spectrum pesticides are really not the optimal choice for pest control in your garden. This particular type of pesticide will also kill the useful insects that consume the pests. Beneficial bugs are usually several orders more sensitive to the things you spray than the pests you are trying to kill, so you might wind up dropping the good bug populace and open the door to pest population growth. If you respond to the growing pest problem with more broad-spectrum pesticide, you only continue the harmful cycle.

Fall Season

TIP! Purchase an inexpensive gardening kneeling pad, as well as a wheelbarrow or wagon. You can make gardening much more comfortable on your knees by using a portable garden stool.

Don’t count the fall season out. This might not be the reason why. The fall season is probably the most colorful of the year in terms of foliage. Maple, Beech and Dogwood trees are available in a number of fall colors, varying from bright yellow to rich crimson. Shrubs such as cotoneaster, hydrangea, and barberry will also provide a splash of color in the fall.

TIP! When gardening, don’t use any broad-spectrum pesticides. These pesticides will kill every type of pest in your garden, including beneficial bugs that eat garden pests.

You must always take care of your knees when working in the garden. Bending over while horticulture can be painful and unhealthy for your back. Kneeling is a preferred way to get to your plants while minimizing back pain. Many types of horticulture pads and cushions are available so that avid gardeners can kneel for longer periods of time without experiencing knee pain.

TIP! Try to relax with gardening. There are numerous ways to seek personal comfort and peace.

A great way to ensure that your organic garden will do well is to keep a section of your land unspoiled. The natural wildlife will spring up and make for a perfect organic habitat. The kind of birds and insects needed for pollination will be naturally present on your property and help with your organic garden.

TIP! Scent the grass around your garden with old perfume or discarded aftershave to prevent your dog from wandering into your garden. This helps mask the attractive scents and can make your garden unappealing to them.

Organic material piled three inches deep is an effective mulch in your flower gardens. This is a good way to keep weed growth at bay and add nutrients that you need in your garden. It will also increase the visual appeal of the flower beds.

TIP! If you want your children to enjoy your organic garden, plant some tasty strawberries. Children are thrilled to harvest fruit from their own garden, and doing so often makes them more enthusiastic about helping out with the more hum-drum aspects of tending a garden.

Pine is a wonderful mulch so do not discard the idea. A number of plants commonly grown in garden settings do best in an acidic soil. If you have some of these plants, then pine needles are an easy way to add acid to their bed. Cover the beds with a couple inches of needles and as they decompose, they will disperse acid to the soil.

TIP! Make sure you have your gardening tools near you, so you can maximize your gardening efficiency. You have several options including using a bucket to hold your tools or wearing pants with lots of sturdy pockets.

A good way to plant seeds is in containers. Plant them three times as deep as their overall size. Some seeds shouldn’t be covered and must be in sunlight at all times. Some common examples include ageratum and petunias. If you are not sure whether your seeds need to be exposed to sunlight, resources are usually provided with the seeds or can be found online.

TIP! After your seeds begin to sprout, it is not as important to keep them warm. As your plants grow, move them away from the source of heat.

One odd but apparently useful tip for growing organic plants, is to lightly brush your plants with your fingers or a piece of cardboard 1-2 times a day. You may think it odd, but studies show that this action results in plant growth that is more substantial than would otherwise be achieved.

TIP! You can use something like a laundry basket to gather all of your produce together when the time comes. This type of basket can double as a large colander for the fruits and vegetables you pick.

You can get rid of slugs with a simple beer trap. First, place a glass canning jar in the soil, burying it until the mouth is even with the surface of the soil. Pour enough beer into the jar to fill it below an inch from the top. Slugs are attracted by the beer and won’t be able to exit the jar once they enter.

TIP! Lightly ruffle your seeds by hand or with cardboard, twice daily in your organic garden. While this appears strange, research shows it can help plants grow larger, versus not petting them at all.

Get your organic garden certified so you can credibly claim that your crops are organic. This can boost sales and tell loyal customers that you’re providing the best to them.

TIP! A diversity of materials can be used to construct raised beds. These include brick, stone, and wood.

An organic garden is a benefit to you and everyone else who consumes the food that grows there. Growing organic is healthier and just overall better for you. Make sure you try your best to grow organic as opposed to adding chemicals to your garden.

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. When you stagger your planting in this manner, your tomato plants will not be in bloom all at once, meaning you have fresh tomatoes for longer.

Mulch your garden to keep the soil nourished. Mulch acts as a protective covering for the soil. It can also keep the ground from overheating during hot weather, which will protect the roots of your plants from damage. The soil will also stay moist longer because it reduces evaporation. This will also help to keep weeds under control.

TIP! The mulch in your organic flowerbeds should be made of organic material and be no shallower than three inches. Doing this will nourish the soil in your garden and improve its ability to retain moisture.

An excellent feature of organic vegetables is that they contain no pesticides. However, although this is a much healthier alternative, it is important to check surfaces of organic fruits and vegetables thoroughly to be sure that no unwanted pests are living in or on them.

TIP! Pay attention to which products you can use in your garden. Try natural or organic alternatives to the usual chemical fertilizers.

Growing your garden at home might not be the most convenient thing for you, but you will save a lot of money and always have the confidence that what you’re eating and feeding your family is as fresh and as healthy as possible. Use the tips you’ve learned here and get started on your garden today.

Tired Of An Ugly Yard? Use These Tips To Transform It!

~ craigb

TIP! Do not improperly lay your new sod. Get your soil ready before you lay your sod.

Organic gardening will require some extra research and active avoidance of chemicals. If you plan on gardening the natural way, you might have to understand certain complexities like the soil’s PH balance and bug fighting concoctions. If you are a beginner, take things slowly. You can do it well by taking advantage of the advice that offered below.

TIP! Pick the correct soil to get the best results. You should choose your soil depending on the plants that you are going to plant.

Transfer your favorite plants indoors to rescue them from the winter frosts. Find out which plants will be able to thrive despite the transplanting and different indoor conditions. Use caution when digging around the roots of your plant. You need to keep the root structure intact for it to thrive after being potted.

TIP! It’s easy to just jump in and start gardening without thought, but it’s important to plan your garden first. This will help you to remember where you planted the different plants when sprouts begin to shoot up from the ground.

Plants need to take in CO2 to grow and thrive. With a high level of CO2 plants will grow much better. Growing plants in a greenhouse is the best way to contain CO2 for use by your plants. To maximize your plants’ growth, make sure to monitor these levels to ensure they’re adequate.

Knee Pads

TIP! Place a few inches of organically based mulch around your vegetable plants. Mulch keeps soil moist for longer periods of time.

If your garden contains lots of short plants, purchase some gardening knee pads. You will spend a lot of time on your knees while gardening, which can result in knee pain. Having a good pair of knee pads will cushion your knees in comfort.

TIP! Don’t use broad-spectrum pesticides for your garden. These pesticides will kill every type of pest in your garden, including beneficial bugs that eat garden pests.

Mint leaves are wonderful, but don’t you despise how quickly they can take over a garden due to rapid growth? Control their expansion by confining them to a large pot. 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.

TIP! If you want to keep dogs our of your garden, take some aftershave, old perfume, or any other scented item and spray the grass around the area. This will help mask the scents that attract your dog, and will make your garden a less interesting place for your pet to be.

You should start pea seedlings indoors instead of planting them outside right at the start. By initially planting them indoors, the seeds tend to germinate better. Give the seeds enough time to get stronger: growing indoors will make it easier for your plants to resist diseases and the pesky bugs. When your plants are sturdy, move them outdoors.

TIP! In the middle of the day the vegetables have softened, which means they are easily damaged. Do not twist the vegetable to remove it from the vine; instead, cut the stem to avoid damaging the plant.

Add aspirin to your plants to help them fight sickness. You will need 2 gallons of water and one and one half aspirin mixed together for a wonderful add-on to your plants. Spray the plants with the aspirin water to assist plants in battling disease. The process can be repeated every three weeks or so.

TIP! For the best results, properly prepare your garden for planting. First, you should loosen the soil, and ensure that it is sufficiently moist.

You should protect the knees if you are kneeling in the garden. Bending over while gardening can be painful and unhealthy for your back. Kneeling is a preferred way to get to your plants while minimizing back pain. To protect your knees while gardening, you should get a pad to kneel on or at least use a folded up towel.

TIP! Work properly in your garden. Don’t waste time searching for lost tools.

Plants growing in your home need a constant temperature of no less than 65 degrees. The plants need this temperature in order to effectively grow. If there are times during the year when you would prefer not to have the temperature that high, another solution you can utilize is to purchase heat lamps for your organic plants.

TIP! An old laundry basket works great for gathering produce from your garden. A benefit of using something like a laundry basket is that it can strain for you, as well as hold a large amount of produce.

Go slowly as you plant the seeds. The first step is to moisturize the soil. Next, you should evenly distribute the seeds ensuring that each one has enough room to grow. You should bury your seeds deep enough, usually three times their size. Be aware that some seeds need light to germinate and should be sown on top of the soil.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! Do you want to know how to kill weeds in a natural way? To control the growth of weeds, all you need is last week’s Sunday paper. Weeds require sunlight to grow.

Put used coffee grounds on the soil. Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plant growth. Nitrogen, along with phosphorous and potassium, is an important nutrient in the garden. It contributes to healthy and strong growth of the plant, but don’t overuse it.

TIP! Try using a beer trap to naturally eradicate slugs from your organic garden. Take a glass jar and bury it in your garden, making sure that the lip of the jar is even with the soil.

Do you want to kill weeds naturally? You should layer some newspaper to get weeds under control. Weeds can only grow when there is adequate sunlight. With layers of newspaper on them, the weeds are not going to have light, and therefore will not grow. Newspapers break down over time, and they make a great addition to compost. If you want it to look better, just add a layer or two of much over top of the newspapers.

TIP! If you’d like to create a raised bed, use materials like brick, stone, or untreated wood. If you choose wood, ensure that it has not been treated with a sealant or other chemicals.

A good general rule when planting your seeds into containers is that the depth of the planting should be about three times the size of the seed. Some seeds shouldn’t be covered and must be in sunlight at all times. Some common examples include ageratum and petunias. 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! You may want to grow garlic organically. It’s best to plant garlic cloves in either spring or fall.

Use a beer trap to capture slugs and stop them from eating your plants. Bury a glass jar in your garden so that its open mouth is level with the top of the soil. Pour beer into the container to within an inch of the jar lip. Beer attracts slugs and then they’ll get stuck in the jar.

TIP! You should add mulch to your garden and flowerbed using at least three inches of organic material. Mulch adds nutrients to your soil, prohibits water evaporation, inhibits weeds and creates a finished look to your flower or gardening beds.

If you are building a raised bed utilize stone, brick or wood that is untreated. If using wood, make sure it’s naturally rot resistant and untreated. Good choices are cypress, cedar and locust. Consider the chemicals that will leach out of the wood before choosing anything that has been treated. Remember the affect that such chemicals will have on your plants and soil. If you have built a bed with treated lumber already, use a barrier such as plastic to line the bed.

TIP! Mulch your flowers and trees with three inches of organic materials. When you do this, you save money by conserving the amount of water you use, and it also helps out the environment in the process as well.

Now, you shouldn’t get your hopes up and believe that a few tips are going to turn you into an instant professional gardener. However, these tips are a great starting point if you do plan to grow organically. As you implement these tips and hone your skills, you’ll be a professional green-thumb-holder in no time.

Organic Garden Tips And Tricks For New Growers

~ craigb

TIP! Choose perennials that are not vulnerable to attack by slugs. These creatures can wreak havoc on a garden in a short time.

A garden is more than just a way to decorate. It is even more than a hobby for the green thumbs! It plays a significant part in a gardener’s life by bringing calmness, accomplishment and a connection to nature. The effects can be profound, especially if you have any talent at it.

TIP! If you start to notice some powdery mildew growing on your plants, there is no need to waste money on expensive chemicals. A great home remedy is to mix baking soda with water and a little bit of liquid soap.

Your plants will respond better to gradual changes of environment. You need to give them about an hour of sunlight during the first day. As the week progresses, gradually increase their exposure to the outdoors. If you do this correctly, the plants should be able to make their final move at the end of a week’s time.

TIP! For a garden that thrives, choose the right type of soil. Find out more about the plants you like and which type of soil is best.

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 do not check, they do a lot of damage to plants so try to get rid of them if you can.

TIP! Be diligent in your efforts to banishing weeds! Weeds will cause your garden to become overgrown and cluttered. To aid in this venture, you might want to use white vinegar.

It is a good idea to pre-soak your seeds in a dark environment overnight. Place a couple seeds in each container, then fill it close to full with water. This will allow your seeds to be hydrated and get a head start when growing. The seeds will most likely have a greater chance of maturing and surviving.

Knee Pads

TIP! Make a plan for your garden. This way, when the sprouts start shooting up, you can recall where you planted each plant.

A set of knee pads is a great investment if your garden has a lot of low-growing plants. You will end up spending a good deal of time on your knees and this can cause a lot of pain by the end of the day. A pair of good horticulture knee pads can cushion your knees for more comfort.

TIP! Ensuring your plants are both dry and aerated is a great way to keep them healthy. Many diseases, as well as most parasites, prefer moisture.

Put a couple of inches of organic mulch around each of your vegetable plants. Mulch will keep soil moist for longer. It will also prevent the growth of weeds. Every gardener can appreciate pulling fewer weeds.

TIP! Do you hate how fresh mint leaves grow and take over your lovely garden but still like them? You can control their growth by placing them into a pot or container. By using a separate containment unit, you are limiting the plant’s ability to spread its roots and subsequently grow like wildfire.

Novice gardeners should read the manuals on all horticulture tools and chemicals prior to using them. Some of the chemicals in these products can cause skin irritation, or worse, if you fail to take this simple precaution. Keep yourself safe and always follow instructions.

TIP! Place a few inches of organically based mulch around your vegetable plants. The mulch help keeps the soil that is around the plants much more moist for much longer.

Think about putting some berry-producing evergreens into your landscape. They will provide a splash of color in the drab and dreary winter months when a lot of other plants have lost their colors. Some examples include Holly, Snowberry trees, Winterberry and similar plants.

Pectrum Pesticides

TIP! If you are going for a British feel with your garden, then vary the heights of your plants. If you use plants of similar heights, the result will be pretty boring and uniform.

Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides in your garden. Broad-spectrum pesticides not only kill pests, but also “good” bugs like ground beetles that eat pests. The beneficial insects, which kill the pests, are much more sensitive to pesticides than the pests. Using them will reduce your population of good bugs, and increase the bad. As a result, gardeners often have to resort to using more toxic pesticides to get rid of garden pests.

TIP! A mixture of aspirin and water can protect your plants from common diseases. Dissolve 1 aspirin per gallon of water for a plant disease fighting solution.

Pick one plant to serve as your garden’s focal point. You need a focal point that can catch your eye in garden design. It can be anything, but oftentimes a plant that stands out from its neighbors will do the trick.

To make an interesting English garden, mix various plants and plant heights in the same bed. If you only use uniform plants, your bed will look boring and flat.

Involve your children in gardening. A garden can teach your children about the joy of rewarding work and nutrition while bonding.

TIP! Working in the garden doesn’t have to be grueling; learn to work more efficiently. One of the biggest time wasters is not keeping track of your tools and having to look for them every time you need them.

Planted flowers will benefit from organic materials that are built up to as much as three inches. Doing this keeps weeds down, keeps the moisture in your plants, and gives more nutrients to the plants. Mulch will also improve the general appearance of your flower beds.

TIP! Research botanical insecticide formulas, as they are often quite effective in eradicating pests. These natural insecticides can often be more effective than synthetically engineered pesticides.

When you are doing work in your garden, be efficient. Wasting time finding tools is inefficient horticulture. Take the time to prepare the necessary tools, and then store them in a easily accessed place once you are done horticulture. Invest in a tool belt or wear pants that have lots of pockets.

TIP! A perennial garden can be set up in a few easy steps. Use a spade to cut beneath the turf, and cover the entire area with wood chips after flipping it over.

Tuck away some plastic grocery bags and use them to slip over your muddy boots. Having these available lets you keep your flow in movement, and helps you return to your horticulture fast so you can finish up your day.

TIP! If you’re trying to decide how to water the plants in your organic garden, consider a soaker hose. The water slowly seeps from these hoses and is positioned so the roots get the water, and the leaves remain dry.

Regularity is the key to keeping your organic garden in order, don’t let your list of chores pile up. If you’re too busy to do all those little things each day, there are some small steps you can take to not have all that work build up on you. If you put the dog outside, weed a few spots in the garden while your dog goes to the bathroom.

TIP! One of the first things you need to learn about organic gardening is how to properly prepare flower beds. You can make a bed by slicing under the turf with a spade.

If you have recently planted seeds in your organic garden, you should regularly aerate the soil by using your hands to gently sift it. This may sound strange, but research has proven that doing this will help your plants grow bigger than if they were not petted at all.

TIP! When adding a new tree or shrub to your garden, remember that a ragged planting hole is best. You may inhibit the growth of roots if you have any glazed holes.

Use the advice given to you and turn your garden into a wonderland. Once your garden is back to its blooming glory, you will feel gratified and renewed yourself. Gardening can have profound effects within many areas of your life if you take the steps to embrace it. So grab your horticulture gear, and get to work.

Your Organic Garden: Great Advice You Can Use Today

~ craigb

TIP! Using a shovel in clay soil is a lot of work, not only is the clay hard, but it will stick to the shovel and make it twice as hard to handle. Get better results in clay by rubbing car wax or floor wax onto the shovel, then buff off and dig.

Most individuals think that gardening is tough. This is untrue if you know the right things to do. With the right advice, anybody can become an award-winning gardener. You can greatly increase your horticulture skills by applying the suggestions you will read in this article.

TIP! Pick your plants with an eye to maximize the yield you can get. A disease-resistant hybrid plant can be a good option to consider over a more traditional variety due to its tendency to produce higher yields.

Make sure that your sod is laid properly. Your soil should be prepared before you lay the sod. Do some weeding if necessary, then break the soil until it is no longer packed. Gently compact the soil until it is flattened. Afterward, you want to make sure the soil is moistened. Avoid laying your sod in straight rows with all of the seams lining up. Instead, stagger the rows for a more pleasing visual effect. Tamp down the sod so it has a flat and even surface, then using some extra soil, fill the gaps between. Once it is in place, the sod requires frequent watering for at least two weeks. This is usually the amount of time it takes for the sod to grow roots, making it ready to grow seamlessly into place.

Find some plants that will give you a higher yield. Many times, a cold-tolerant or disease-resistant hybrid can have a higher yield versus traditional ones.

TIP! See to it that you fertilize your garden. Manure can be effective, though you should use products which minimize pathogens.

A handy trick is to turn the handle on a tool that you use often into a makeshift ruler. Large handled tools like rakes, hoes or shovels may be used like measuring sticks. After laying the handles on the floor, run the measuring tape along beside them. With a permanent marker, note pertinent measurements on the tool handle. Now, the next time you’re down in the garden, you’ll have a handy ruler without needing to look anywhere else.

TIP! Be sure to plant using the colors of Fall. That doesn’t have to be the case.

Plants need C02 for maximum growth. More CO2 generally produces more luxurious plant growth. The best way to expose your plants to a high level of carbon dioxide is by growing them in a greenhouse. A greenhouse will help maintain a high level of CO2 and cause the plants to grow faster.

TIP! Tend to a garden as a way to relax. A plethora of paths to individual relaxation and inner peace exist.

If your landscape includes low-growing plants, you should invest in a set of knee pads specifically designed for horticulture. The time that you will have to spend on your knees in your garden can cause you unnecessary knee pain. You can be more comfortable in the garden with a good pair of horticulture knee pads.

TIP! In order to bring in good insects to your garden, you need to plant heather. Bees like it because it gives them nectar in the springtime.

Aerate and dry your plants each day. If your plants get too moist, they may get sick or infested with parasites. Fungi is the most common parasite for plants. It is possible to get rid of fungi after it appears with anti-fungal sprays, but it’s better to spray at-risk areas before fungi appear.

TIP! When growing indoor plants, the thermostat should be set between 65-75 degrees throughout the day. The temperature needs to remain steady and warm so the plants can grow.

Place a two inch layer of organic mulch at the base of your tall vegetable plants. The mulch help keeps the soil that is around the plants much more moist for much longer. Mulch will help a lot in preventing weeds from growing. Your plants will receive extra water and nutrients, and you’ll spend less time dealing with weeds.

TIP! Spacing is one important factor in gardening. As plants grow and spread out, you will not always know how much space will be required.

If you want the best tasting vegetables, learn about the optimum time to harvest them. Most vegetables have a relatively small harvesting window when they will taste best. Veggies such as zucchini or baby peas, for instance, taste their best if they get picked young. On the other hand, tomatoes taste best when they are as ripe as possible from the vine. Take the time to learn when your produce will be at its best for harvesting.

TIP! Your watering schedule should flow perfectly with the seasons, yet be adjustable according to climate. You should consider water quality and soil type when watering your plants.

Plant with fall season color in mind. Fall, though, can still be an interesting time for trees. Fall is the most colorful time of year for foliage. For example, maple, beech, and dogwood trees all change from their usual green to a vibrant spectrum of yellow, orange, and red. When choosing shrubs, think about cotoneaster, hydrangea or barberry.

TIP! Use a few inches of organic materials to mulch your flowerbed or garden. This is a great tip to practice for a healthy, vibrant organic garden.

Choose a plant as a focal point. The best garden designers always use a focal point that draws the eye. Frequently, it will be a plant that’s very different from others in the neighborhood.

TIP! If you are going to plant a shrub or a tree in your garden, dig an ugly hole for it to go in. If, after digging a hole, you notice the sides look “glazed” from the action of the shovel, this could restrict plant roots from growing through to the surrounding soil.

If you’re working to build a sustainable organic garden, try leaving a portion of your garden untouched so that the wildlife will be able to thrive. Doing this will allow creatures that help plants to produce and pollinate to continue their actions, which will have a positive effect on the garden you develop.

TIP! When deciding which plants you want to focus your organic gardening efforts on, you should be as specific as possible. Different varieties of plants call for different environments and climates.

Keep the temperature in your home between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, if you are keeping or growing any kind of plant in your house. The temperature needs to remain warm so they may grow. If you don’t want you house to be really warm during the cold season, you could use a heat lamp on organic plants instead.

TIP! Many different sorts of plants will grown in an organic garden. A lot of plant varieties love acidic soil, and they will thrive well in mulch.

Keep your horticulture tools close by to maximize gardening efficiency. You can do this by using a bucket, or you can wear rugged pants or a gardening apron that has several pockets. You will be much more productive if you can quickly get to your spade, pruning shears, trowel and watering can.

TIP! You should use 3″ or more of organic materials as mulch for your trees and flowers. This method is not only good for the earth, but conserves water, saving you money on your water bill and offering a bit of relief to the environment as well.

Horticulture can be a fun and easy hobby once you have laid some of the groundwork in place. After you take the time to educate yourself about all the ins and outs of what it takes to be a great gardener, you will can look forward to success in all your horticulture endeavors.