organic gardening

The Best Information About Horticulture That Exists

~ craigb

TIP! To keep your plants from getting shocked, you need to gradually introduce them to changes in temperature and conditions. The first day you transfer your plants, you should only allow them to sit in direct sunlight for a few hours.

People everywhere are realizing the amazing benefits of organic gardening. With these tips, you can learn fast about how to start your own organic garden. Simply follow through with our handy tips and tricks and take advantage of these great results.

TIP! You don’t need a costly chemical solution to deal with powdery mildew in your garden. Instead, combine baking soda with water and liquid soap.

So you don’t shock the plants, you should gradually get them use to a change in the temperature and conditions. Try placing them outside in sunlight for about an hour or maybe two the first day. Throughout the week, you should leave your plants out for a little longer each day. The plants should be prepared to move outside permanently at the end of this week.

TIP! Grow some wheat grass or cat grass next to the plants your cat seems to prefer. You can also try to offend the cats sense of smell with orange rinds or mothballs.

Do not plant perennials that are prone to snail infestation. Slugs and snails are voracious eaters that can destroy a plant literally overnight. Snails and slugs like to eat perennials with smooth and thin leaves, especially if they are young plants. Some perennials, however, leave a bad taste in slugs’ mouths or are difficult to chew through because their leaves aren’t tender. Some varieties of these plants are campanula, helleborus, heuchera, or euphorbia.

TIP! Tender deciduous shrubs are very fragile, so protect them. Tender shrubs are very sensitive to cold weather, especially those that are planted in pots.

Insects and various garden pests can be avoided by making your soil healthy. Healthy plants grown in robust and enriched soil have an advantage in fighting pest infestation. If you want to get the best plants, begin with a soil that has hardly any chemicals, and that will bring salts.

TIP! Don’t you hate it how fresh mint leaves take over all of your garden, even though you love them? Control their expansion by confining them to a large pot. If you prefer, you can even place the container in the ground, but the pot’s walls will prevent the mint from spreading and being a nuisance in your garden.

Prepare your seeds by soaking them in a dark environment. 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. The seeds will get the hydration they need to start growing. This way, the seeds will have a much better shot at survival once they are planted.

TIP! Fertilizer in the garden is a must. Composted manure is effective in raising healthy plants, and commercial fertilizer products are safer and more convenient.

Set your mower blades higher, so you don’t cut the grass too short. If you let your grass grow, the roots will go deeper and make your lawn more resistant to dryness. Leaving the grass short makes it more prone to drying out, which leaves your lawn look really brown and yucky.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! Avoid sun damage by dressing appropriately whenever you will be gardening in the sun. Clothing should keep your skin covered, and don’t forget to wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

If a test indicates that your soil is very alkaline, you can mix the dirt with used coffee grounds. The coffee grounds provide a cheap way to re-supply needed acid to the dirt. After doing so, you will notice that your greenery and garden will be colorful and fresh.

TIP! An English garden mixes plants of various kinds and sizes close together, which helps to give it a more multi-dimensional feel. Using plants which grow to the same length or height will make your bed look uniform.

Before you start planting your garden, plan it! Use your seed packages to make fun markers that will remind you where each type of plant is growing. In addition, your small plants or groups of plants that are limited in number won’t become lost if you have a large garden.

Knee Pads

TIP! When gardening, remember to take care of your knees! Most people can’t bend for long periods while standing. If you kneel, you can easily work on your plants without placing stress on your back.

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. 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. Investing in a comfortable pair of knee pads made specifically for horticulture can really reduce the pain you may feel from the pressure of being on your knees for extended periods.

TIP! When growing plants inside of the house, you should ensure the thermostat is set at around 65-75 degrees in the daytime. Plants require a warmer climate to grow.

Some people use horticulture as a source of relaxation. Many methods of relaxation can be employed to lead a peaceful life. Horticulture is fun, and it is definitely one of the best ways to achieve this state. It does however require a small investment of money but has tremendous returns. Your beautiful lush garden will allow you to reap a harvest of peaceful tranquility.

TIP! Preparing a plot for planting a perennial garden can be done quickly and without difficulty. Using a garden spade, dig underneath the turf and flip it.

If you want to spend more quality time outdoors with your children, why not allowing them to help you with your gardening? Your children will enjoy being able to pick strawberries and will be ready to help you if they can get something sweet to eat.

TIP! In your compost, use green and dried plants in equal parts. “Green” material refers to things like wilted flowers, weeds, leaves from your yard, and grass clippings.

For in-home organic gardeners, you are looking for an ideal temperature of around 60-75 degrees for your plants. Warm temperatures encourage plant growth. If you don’t like keeping your home that temperature in the winter, you may wish to consider getting a heat lamp, instead, to keep your organic plants the correct temperature.

TIP! One way to help maintain healthy soil is to incorporate mulch into your landscape. The right amount of mulch in a garden also works to protect the soil underneath.

When you are working in your garden, you will want to have all of your tools in a convenient location. Keep all of your tools together; do not waste time looking 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! Try growing some organic garlic. You should plant garlic cloves in either early spring or late fall.

Get the most out of what you have, and your property. Landscaping can make the value of your property go up. Some plant investments can raise your resale value by 20% or more. Look for hardy, low moisture plants that are naturally suited for your region.

Laundry Basket

TIP! Stagger you vegetable planting so you will have a new harvest every month or so. This staggers your harvest over time.

Old laundry baskets are handy tools at harvest time. The laundry basket is a perfect strainer for any produce run off. Rinse your crops while in the laundry basket to strain the excess water.

TIP! Making beds is one of the most important skills you need to acquire. You do this by slicing underneath the turf using an appropriate tool.

When developing your compost pile, use equal measures of dried and green material. “Green” material refers to things like wilted flowers, weeds, leaves from your yard, and grass clippings. Dried plant material comprises shredded paper, cardboard, sawdust, and straw. Materials to avoid during composting include diseased plants, meat, ashes and charcoal.

TIP! If you’re preparing to add a new shrub or tree to your organic garden, it’s best that the hole you plant them in looks a bit off-balance. 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.

As stated earlier, applying organic gardening methods requires only a modest amount of time and effort. Apply the advice of this article, and enjoy the many benefits an organic garden can offer you. It doesn’t matter what you’re trying to grow, the tips you learned can help you be successful.

Organic Gardening Tips To Improve Your Family’s Health

~ craigb

TIP! When winter comes, you can save a few plants by transferring them inside the house. You can save the ones you spent the most money on or the ones that are resistant.

If you are environmentally conscious and worried about the toxic effects of chemicals, organic gardening may be for you. Organic gardeners eschew the harsh chemicals and fertilizers used by large corporate farms. There is also the fact that maintaining an organic garden is inexpensive. In the following paragraphs, you’ll find some suggestions that will help you make the most of your garden.

TIP! Grow wheat or cat grass in the area around the plants that your cat is eating. In addition, you could put an item on the soil’s top around the plants which has a smell that cats hate, such as citrus peel or mothballs.

Try not to cause shock to your plants by gradually changing their conditions and temperature. Start by placing your plants outside for a few hours only. Over the week, try gradually increasing the time they’re left outside. When the week is done, your plants will be ready for the big move without any problems.

TIP! Protect your deciduous shrubs which are tender. Tender, potted shrubs must be protected when the weather is cold.

Start your plants in containers before transferring them to the garden. Once the plant is hardy enough, plant it in your garden. In addition, you can shorten the intervals between your plantings. Your next crop of seedlings will be started and ready to be planted immediately after you remove your last crop from the garden.

TIP! Get some gardening knee pads if you find yourself kneeling on the ground a lot to do your gardening. Long hours spent in the garden will wreak havoc on your knees.

Use slug-proof varieties of perennials wherever possible. A particularly vulnerable plant can be killed by snails and slugs overnight. They’re particularly fond of perennials with smooth and thin leaves, especially if the plants are young. Perennials with hairy leaves or bitter taste are unattractive to snails and slugs, keeping them safe from harm. A few great choices are achillea, campanula, and heuchera. Other options from which you can choose are hellebourus and euphorbia.

Baking Soda

TIP! Your vegetable plants need about two or three inches of mulch placed around them. The soil around plants can stay damper through the use of mulch.

You do not need store-bought chemical treatments for plant mildew. Plain water with a bit of liquid soap and baking soda will do the trick. Spray this onto your plants about once per week or until it subsides. Baking soda treats the mildew effectively and gently and it won’t damage your plants.

TIP! A wheelbarrow and kneeling bench or stool are smart investments for your garden. Spending time on the ground is rough on the knees, a portable and light stool can help make gardening easier.

During winter, you should take your favorite plants inside. You can save the ones you spent the most money on or the ones that are resistant. Remember to be gentle when digging up your plants; carefully dig away from the roots and gently place the plant into a container.

TIP! Get your children interested in helping with your organic garden. You can provide a good learning experience that your children can appreciate the more they learn on how to grow healthy produce.

Use proper soil for the best results. Different types of plants require different soils, so check soil requirements for the ones you choose. You can designate one area of your garden to use one specific type of soil.

TIP! If you choose to use organic methods to care for your houseplants, you should bear in mind that certain plants require more sunlight than others. If your house or apartment doesn’t get a lot of natural light, one option is to grow something that only requires medium or low light.

Natural materials or some other plants can be used in your garden for keeping away pests. Slugs stay away from marigolds and onions when they are planted in a garden. Insect pests will stay away from seedlings and trees if you use wood ash around the base as a mulch. These methods prevent use of harsh chemicals.

TIP! Get more value from your property. Of all the home improvement options that you might consider, landscaping is the most cost effective.

Place organic mulch as close to your vegetables as you can. The mulch will keep the soil around the plants moist a little longer. It will also prevent weeds from popping up around your plants. This will save you tons of time from pulling out tons of weeds.

TIP! Don’t let your organic gardening tasks stack up for very long. 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.

During the hottest hours of each day, your vegetables become too soft, and even gentle harvesting will cause damage and bruising. Twisting could cause plant damage, so ensure that produce is removed by cutting only.

TIP! Is there a natural way to kill weeds? Use a lot of layers of newspaper in order to achieve weed control. The main thing that a weed needs to thrive is sunlight.

Take care of your knees while working in the garden. Many people can not bend over for long periods of time while they are standing up. Kneeling down on the ground is a more comfortable way for many people to tend to their horticulture chores. Use a pad to kneel upon and protect your knees from possible pain.

TIP! In order to claim your crops are legitimately organic and be credible, it is important to your customers that you become organic garden certified. This will up your sales and prove to your loyal customers that what they have been getting is only the best that you possibly could get.

If you are a fan of organic, sustainable horticulture methods, consider leaving part of your backyard untouched so that natural plants and wildlife can flourish in the area. This can be a good area for the types of insects that pollinate plants. It can also be a sanctuary for birds, which will help some plants thrive. This can greatly improve the production of your organic garden.

TIP! Organic gardening can be more difficult than gardening with chemicals, but the end result makes it worth it. Chemical giants claim miracles, but those miracle crops come at a price to whoever eats the produce.

If you are horticulture with a cut, make sure that you adequately protect it from dirt and chemicals. A cut could get infected if it gets in contact with grime and dirt in the garden. Bandage all cuts completely, using bandages that cover and seal cuts.

TIP! Among the most important features of organic produce is the fact that it has not been exposed to harmful pesticides. This provides benefits for your family, but you ought to double check for pests.

Do not plant your seeds in a rush. Start by getting the soil good and moist. Then you want to spread your seeds evenly while making sure that they have enough room to grow. Bury them at a depth that is three times that of the height of the seeds. Make sure you are not burying the seeds that need light to grow.

TIP! Try using botanical pesticide products that can keep your insect problem under control. Some natural insecticides are stronger and more effective than the chemically engineered synthetic pesticides that are commercially available.

When working in the garden, try to work as efficiently as possible. Have your tools laid out in an orderly way so you do not have to search 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 gardening.

TIP! Make certain to learn what to look for when purchasing the plants you wish to include in the organic garden you will cultivate. This is especially important when buying annual or perennial plants.

If you use this advice concerning organic horticulture, you will have a healthier yard in no time. You can also look forward to a rise in the number of wild visitors you receive in your garden.

Sowing Seeds: Organic Gardening Advice For Your Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Put sod down the right way. Make sure you prepare your soil before you lay any sod down.

People everywhere are realizing the amazing benefits of organic horticulture. With the application of the simple, yet effective advice in this article, you should soon be able to cultivate your own flourishing organic garden. Read on to discover some helpful tips and learn how to take advantage of them.

TIP! Transform the handles of your tools into convenient measuring devices. Tools with long handles, such as a shovel or rake, are absolutely perfect for this job, and make your workload a little bit smaller.

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. In addition, you can shorten the intervals between your plantings. When you remove your mature plants, the next batch of seedlings should be ready.

TIP! Fight pests before you even plant, by getting your soil in shape. Healthy soil leads to healthy plants with more strength to deflect those insects and various diseases.

When fall arrives, it’s time to plant your autumn vegetables. If you want to find an interesting container for your lettuce or kale, try a pumpkin! You simply need to cut off the top, scoop out the guts, and spray your pumpkin with Wilt-Pruf. When this is finished, you are now ready to plant.

Grow some wheat grass or catnip for your cat to eat instead. You could also repel your pet by planting rosemary or placing citrus fruit peels around your garden.

TIP! Do not spend your money on chemicals to fight mildew. All you need to do is mix baking soda with a tiny bit of liquid soap in with some water.

The best gardens will evolve from original seeds rather than transplanted items. Starting with your own seeds is more environmentally friendly than buying plants from a nursery. 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! 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.

If you are planning on growing peas, begin the plantings inside instead of outside. The seeds will grow better in your home if planted there first. It will create heartier seedlings, which means they will more easily resist the pests and diseases they will encounter in an outdoor environment. Once they are strong enough, you can transplant them outside.

TIP! While working in your garden during the fall season, watch out for those stink bugs! Stink bugs like to reside in tomatoes, beans, and pepper plants, as well as many fruits. If not taken care of, these pests can damage the garden, so take steps to cut down their population.

Plant for fall color. That doesn’t have to be it though. 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. When thinking about shrubs, consider barberry, hydrangea and cotoneaster.

TIP! You should make sure to divide your irises. You can increase the number of irises you have by splitting clumps that are overgrown.

If you want a sustainable garden, leave a part of it undisturbed for wildlife to enjoy. 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! Novice gardeners should read the manuals on all gardening tools and chemicals prior to using them. Garden chemicals can cause skin irritation and eye injury.

Sprouting seeds need less warmth than before. Remove plants from the heated environment once they begin growing. Also take any plastic films off of your containers, so you can keep the warmth and humidity out. Watch your seeds closely to find the right time to do this.

TIP! If you have a vegetable garden, one of your main enemies is garden pests. Since you are growing the vegetables for your own consumption, you want to stay away from pesticides.

Leave plenty of growing space when you plant your garden. It is easy to underestimate the amount of space that the plants will take up once they start to grow. The plants will inevitably need to unfurl and spread, but they also need the circulation of air from open spaces. Plan your garden accordingly, and make sure the right distance is between the seeds.

TIP! Beautiful insects are attracted to heather when you plant it. Bees are very attracted to heather.

Add more value to your property. Landscaping has one of the highest returns you can get from home improvement. Investing in plants can raise the value of your property by 20%, or sometimes even more. Get low moisture plants for your garden and yard that are suited for your environment.

TIP! Seeds that have sprouted don’t require the extra warmth that was needed before they sprouted. You can begin to move them further from the heat source as they become seedlings.

It can be hard to grow an organic garden without chemicals, but the end result is worth the effort. Chemical giants claim miracles, but those miracle crops come at a price to whoever eats the produce.

TIP! Make gardening efficient. Keep all of your tools together; do not waste time looking for them! Set up the tools you will need for your day prior to hitting the garden, then put them away neatly at the end of your gardening session.

Try to avoid over-watering your plants. Too much water will make it more difficult for the plants to absorb the nutrients they need from the soil. Before you set out to water your plants, you might want to verify that the forecast does not call for rain. When showers are on the way, you can save yourself the chore of watering.

TIP! Pine is a wonderful mulch so do not discard the idea. Some plants like acidic soil because they have high acidity.

An excellent feature of organic vegetables is that they contain no pesticides. Although this is better for your health, you do need to check organic produce for infestation of bugs before eating it.

One of the more rewarding hobbies is organic gardening. When you grow organic, you will learn much more about the planting and growing process, from A to Z.

TIP! Organic foods do not possess any pesticides on them. While this is great for your loved ones’ health, still check for pests and bugs.

You could simply make a new perennials garden in a couple easy steps. Cut under the dirt with a spade and turn it over. Next, cover the area with three to four inches of organic wood chips. In a few weeks, try cutting into your new bed and planting some perennials.

TIP! Make sure you know the specifics about what you plan on growing in that organic garden of yours. Even within the family of a specific flower or vegetable, the different varieties available have differing environmental requirements.

Use a soaker hose to water your garden. These hoses deliver water directly to the roots of your plants and keep their leaves dry. This is less tedious than watering by hand, and they consume less water than using sprinklers.

TIP! Weeds are a potential downfall for any garden, organic or not. This organic weed killer is safe for both your garden and you.

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 trees can provide natural cooling by shading your house.

TIP! A cost-efficient way to water your garden is by collecting rainwater. Trap the water in contraptions or rain barrels like simple buckets to save money on the water you use for your garden.

You should know how to water your plants. Visit a home and garden center to purchase a soaker hose. They have the ability to water just the plant’s base, solving the problem of moisture loss due to evaporation. The best time to water is in early parts of the morning.

TIP! Depending on where you live, you may be able to continue harvesting some garden crops during the winter. You can protect these vegetables by covering them with a homemade tent.

Garlic strategically located throughout your garden is a great way to keep the insect pests away without using chemicals. The smell of garlic repels lots of annoying insects. You definitely want it to be located near the garden’s perimeter and around any plants that generally attract bugs. On top of its repellent qualities, garlic is also edible.

Organic Garden

TIP! Water is crucial if you want a healthy garden. Plants, just like humans, require water for survival.

You just have to be patient if you want to get your organic garden into tip top shape. Put the tips you have learned above to use today, and see firsthand just how wonderful your new garden can be. Regardless of what you are growing in your organic garden, applying the tips and techniques provided in this article will surely help you achieve your goals.

Grow The Healthy Way: Organic Gardening Techniques

~ craigb

TIP! It can be very hard to shovel clay soil, especially when it sticks to your shovel as you are working. Take the hard work out of using a shovel in clay soil by rubbing a light coat of car or floor wax over the surface with a clean cloth and buff the surface.

Due to the fact that consuming organic foods is gaining popularity, choosing to live a holistic lifestyle is also becoming more prevalent. People who want to develop a more environmentally friendly attitude may not know where to start to reap the benefits of organic gardening. Read on to glean some new organic ideas in the following article.

TIP! Use slug-proof varieties of perennials wherever possible. It is alarming to see how quickly slugs, and their cousin snails, can annihilate a plant.

When fall is here, you need to plant autumn edibles. This time, use a pumpkin for the container for your lettuce and kale, instead of plain clay pots. You simply need to cut off the top, scoop out the guts, and spray your pumpkin with Wilt-Pruf. You are prepared to plant after this is done.

TIP! Cover any wall or fence with climbers. Many climbers are so robust that they can cover an unattractive wall or fence in a single growing season.

Always make sure to mow your lawn to the appropriate length, always making sure that the cut is not too close. Higher grass sends roots further down, increasing lawn strength and viability. Short grass is more prone to getting dried out and turning brown.

TIP! Your plants will reach maximum growth if they have a sufficient supply of carbon dioxide. Most plants will grow better with more CO2.

Vegetables in a garden need to have at least six hours of sun every day in order to thrive. Most vegetables require this amount of sun in order to grow properly and at a quicker pace. Some flowers also have the same needs.

TIP! Take the time to remove weeds. Weeds steal nutrients from plants, robbing a garden of its potential harvest.

Deciduous shrubs need protection from the cold. Shrubs in pots especially need special care in the colder weather. Fasten the tops of the canes together, and cover this wigwam loosely with a cloth. People sometimes use plastic to wrap their plants, but plastic can cause the plants to rot because it impedes air circulation.

TIP! Do you love fresh mint leaves but hate how they quickly grow to take over your garden? Keep the growth under control by growing them in a large gardening 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.

Knee pads are absolute miracle accessories if you work in a garden with plenty of low-growing plants. Without pads, you may have pain in your knees from spending too much time kneeling on the hard ground. You can be more comfortable in the garden with a good pair of horticulture knee pads.

TIP! Aid them by dumping any leftover water from steaming vegetables over them. In order to help acidify the soil for plants like gardenias and rhododendrons, you can use coffee and tea grounds.

Boiling away unwanted weeds is an odd, but productive method used in many gardens. Boiling water is an excellent, organic substance for use against weeds. Douse the weeds with this pot, just avoid the nearby plants. Boiling water will actually hurt the roots, and it will prevent the weeds from growing.

TIP! Create a focal point in your garden with a unique plant. To create an attractive garden design, arrange a focal point to draw attention.

Protect your plants from moisture on a daily basis. Damp leaves can lead to plant disease and parasites. A commonplace plant parasite is fungi. It is possible to control fungi with sprays, but the key is to treat your garden before any problems arise.

TIP! Avoid getting an infection by not allowing dirt and other chemicals to get into open wounds. It is possible for a cut to become extremely infected if it comes into contact with dirt and grime while gardening.

Get a wheelbarrow and a kneeling stool to work in your garden. Spending a lot of time near the ground working is very hard on the knees, so a lightweight and portable garden stool will make gardening more comfortable. Also having a garden usually requires moving heavy dirt and objects, so investing in a wheelbarrow is a very sound investment.

TIP! Indoor plants have been bred over time to thrive in temperatures that are characteristic of a home. Most indoor plants like to be in about 70 degree temperatures, plus or minus 5 degrees.

Plan your garden to provide some fall color. That doesn’t have to be it though. When it comes to vivid foliage, autumn offers the best opportunity to view it. Maple, beech, and dogwood trees are many colors in the fall, from yellow to a deeper crimson. Some vibrant shrubs include hydrangea, barberry, and cotoneaster.

TIP! After seeds have sprouted, they require less warmth than they did prior to sprouting. Your seedlings should be moved away from any heat source.

When you are horticulture out in the sun, wear the proper clothing so that you do not get any type of sun damage. Put on some sunglasses, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. By protecting yourself from the sun’s rays, you lower your risk of getting sunburns or skin cancer.

TIP! Get the most out of what you have, and your property. You can get a great return on investment from landscaping.

To create a beautiful English garden, use the same bed to mix various kinds of plants, as well as different heights. Plants that grow to be the same height end up uniform and flat looking.

TIP! Although organic gardening is often much harder than using chemicals, the reward is much greater. Growing your crops organically will offer the best reward for those who eat the foods.

Your children will enjoy the experience of working with you in the organic garden. Horticulture helps your children learn about biological processes and serves as a social activity that helps the family grow closer while eating healthier.

TIP! If plants are inundated with too much water, it becomes more difficult for roots to pull nutrients out of the soil. Check the weather forecast before watering plants to see if there is rain in the near future.

Planting organic strawberries is a great way to encourage your children to get involved. Your children will enjoy being able to pick strawberries and will be ready to help you if they can get something sweet to eat.

TIP! 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.

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. Certain wildlife can be good for an organic garden; birds and insects can help your plants reproduce and be as healthy as they can be!

TIP! Try using botanical pesticide products that can keep your insect problem under control. These natural insecticides are just as effective as chemicals, sometimes even more so.

It’s simple to lay a new perennial bed. Use a spade to dig into the turf, turn the turf over, then spread the area with approximately three inches of wood chips. After a few weeks, you may then utilize the area to plant your flowers.

Pine Needles

TIP! Be sure you know both when and how, to properly water your organic plants. A soaker hose would be the best tool to use.

Pine can make for a great type of mulch. Some plants do better in soil with high acidity as they are highly acidic themselves. Pine needles are an excellent form of mulch for these types of plants. Cover soil beds with a few inches of pine needles, and they will disperse acidity to the soil below as they decompose.

TIP! You can be a bit more environmentally friendly by doing things like saving rainwater. You can collect rainwater in any number of containers and use this for your organic garden.

Water demands from plants will depend on the season and the climate in your area. You will need to water differently depending on what time it is or what kind of soil you are using. As an example, leaves should not be watered in humid, warm climates else leaf fungus could occur. Rather, see to it that you water the root system well.

TIP! It is important to remember that a healthy garden requires water. Plants, just like people, cannot survive without water.

As you gain more information and tricks, you will find that gardening will become very simple for you to accomplish, and once you know how to garden overall, then organic gardening won’t be a hard task to learn at all. These listed tips are just the beginning of an exciting and organic journey.

Don’t Know How To Garden? That Is Going To Change

~ craigb

TIP! You need to consider beginning the plants into pots. Then, you can plant the seedlings into your garden.

One great way to improve your diet and give yourself a fun an interesting hobby is to plant an organic garden. Taking care of a garden does require effort in order to make things grow. This can make you wonder where to begin for growing your own organic garden.

TIP! Keep your plants thriving through the winter by bringing them inside. Choose the plants that are most likely to survive.

Check the nutrients in the soil before you plant your garden. An inexpensive soil report can be used to adjust soil nutrients to optimum levels, which will ensure your garden thrives. Before you ruin any crops, make sure you do this. Soil can be analyzed at a lot of cooperative extension offices, so make sure you plan accordingly.

TIP! It’s easy to just jump in and start gardening without thought, but it’s important to plan your garden first. This way, you will remember the places you planted your seeds when they start sprouting.

For proper optimum growth, plants require sufficient amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). With a high level of CO2 plants will grow much better. A greenhouse can concentrate the levels of CO2. CO2 levels are best kept high, in order to provide optimal growing conditions for your plants.

TIP! Irises should be divided. You can increase the number of irises you have by splitting clumps that are overgrown.

It is very important to keep the weeds from taking over in your garden. A vibrant garden will be overrun with weeds if they are left alone. A clever way to accomplish this is with the help of some white vinegar. That’s right, you have safe way to get rid of weeds right there in your kitchen cabinet. Spray white vinegar onto those troubling weeds.

TIP! Carefully read and follow the instructions that come with your chemicals and tools, especially when you’re just starting to garden. It may seem simple enough, but not following it could lead to chemical burns and skin irritations.

Set your mower blades higher, so you don’t cut the grass too short. 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 leads to more shallow roots and will result in more brown, dried-out patches.

TIP! Get a wheelbarrow and a kneeling stool to work in your garden. Gardening can be very tough on the knees as you spend much time leaning near the ground, so a portable stool can make all the difference to your comfort.

To help young plants, try pouring boiling water on top of nearby weeds. The safest herbicide that you can use in your garden is a simple pot of boiling water. Pour boiling water on any weeds, but be careful not to spill it on plants you want to keep. Boiling water will actually hurt the roots, and it will prevent the weeds from growing.

Pectrum Pesticides

TIP! Broad-spectrum pesticides should be avoided in your garden. Besides killing the insects you don’t want, this type of pesticide will also kill beneficial insects.

Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides in your garden. While broad-spectrum pesticides will kill most pests, they will also kill helpful insects. Useful insects are more sensitive to these pesticides than the pests, so by killing them, you could be growing your pest population. This may then lead to using even more pesticides to eliminate this new problem.

TIP! Try to avoid direct sun exposure when you are gardening during the day; wear protective clothing. Wear sunglasses and hats with wide brims, and apply sunscreen.

Spray old aftershave, perfume, or scented products around the grass of your garden to prevent your dog from entering it. This will help to cover the scents that are attracting the dog, and make it less of an appealing place for your dog to be.

TIP! Your children will enjoy being involved with your organic gardening endeavors. Children will benefit from the fresh air while bonding with you in your efforts to provide healthier food alternatives for them.

Add some heather plants to your garden, to attract good insects. Bees are naturally attracted to heather for its nectar. Spiders, ground beetles, and other useful insects spend time in undisturbed heather beds. Keep this in mind and always wear gloves when you prune your heather!

TIP! As the seeds sprout, they’ll need less warmth. After growth begins, you can remove plants from any excessive heat sources.

It is important to protect your knees when you are gardening. Most people can’t bend over while standing up for a long period of time. If you kneel, you can easily work on your plants without placing stress on your back. For extra comfort, purchase a knee pad for use as a cushion between your knees and the ground.

TIP! Tend your organic garden on a regular schedule. Not everyone has time to tend their gardens every day, but by doing little things whenever you have a chance, you can avoid having things pile up.

There should be no rush when you are planting a seed. You should start by moisturizing the soil. Your seeds should be spaced out evenly so they aren’t overcrowded. This will ensure that they can grow. Plant them depending on how big the seeds are. Some seeds need some light to grow, and therefore shouldn’t be buried.

TIP! It can be hard to grow an organic garden without chemicals, but the end result is worth the effort. While chemical-based gardening products make bold claims, it is hard to dispute that organic gardening consistently produces superior results.

Top all your garden beds with several inches of organic mulch. This will discourage weeds from growing, add nutrients, and retain the moisture in your garden. What’s more, your garden will look professional all year.

TIP! Mulch is necessary for a healthy soil. Mulch will protect the soil it covers.

Increase the value of your property! Of all the home improvement options that you might consider, landscaping is the most cost effective. Certain plants could increase the value by 20%. Get plants for your yard and garden that are low moisture, and well suited to your environmental conditions.

TIP! Take care not to overwater your plants, as this can prevent the roots from drawing the proper amount of nutrients out of the soil. Don’t go ahead and water your garden if the weather report predicts rain that day.

Regularity is the key to keeping your organic garden in order, don’t let your list of chores pile up. You may not have a lot of time to exclusively devote to your gardening hobby, but you can make the most of the time you do have. For example, if you are playing in the yard with your child, take a few moments to pull some weeds as well.

TIP! Stagger you vegetable planting so you will have a new harvest every month or so. 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.

One unusual tip in organic horticulture, 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. Believe it or not, aerating the soil in this manner can actually make your seedlings grow larger.

TIP! Add mulch to flowerbeds and your garden that is about three inches and made from various organic materials. This helps give nutrients to the soil in your garden and holds in moisture.

One of the most wonderful things about buying food that is organic is that they don’t contain 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! When you water your organic garden, choose a soaker hose for the best results. The water slowly seeps from these hoses and is positioned so the roots get the water, and the leaves remain dry.

The mulch in your organic flowerbeds should be made of organic material and be no shallower than three inches. Mulch adds nutrients to soil, maintains moisture and prevents weed growth.

Organic Gardening

TIP! Leaves make a great organic compost that you can mix with soil. As the leaves decompose they add organic compounds to the soil which is beneficial to plants.

As you’ve just read, organic gardening does require research, effort, and hard work in order to begin growing organic plants on your own. Persistence is also a necessary ingredient for success. If you keep the tips provided here in mind, you can find your way to organic gardening success. Enjoy your harvest!

Take This Advice To Become Successful At Organic Horticulture

~ craigb

TIP! Pick your plants with an eye to maximize the yield you can get. Many times, hybrid plants tend to resist disease, and tolerate the cold weather better than their traditional counterparts, resulting in higher yields.

Organic horticulture can be an every day part of your life, but understanding how it works can be hard. There are hundreds of different seeds at your disposal. The following tips will help you make the most of your organic garden.

TIP! When gardening, be sure to look closely for stink bug infestation, especially during Autumn. These destructive pests enjoy many kinds of fruit, as well as beans, peppers and tomatoes.

Choose the varieties of plants that will produce a higher yield. Frequently, a hybrid that is able to deal with extreme temperatures will bring higher yields than the more traditional variety of a plant.

TIP! Knee pads are absolute miracle accessories if you work in a garden with plenty of low-growing plants. Gardening can really put a lot of pressure on your knees that will leave you cramped and uncomfortable.

Choose perennials that are not vulnerable to attack by slugs. Slugs and snails are voracious eaters that can destroy a plant literally overnight. Young plants with susceptible leaves are favorite meals for slugs, including those with smoother or thinner leaves. Some varieties of perennials are not preferred by snails and slugs, particularly perennials that have hairy, tough leaves or a taste that isn’t appetizing. Examples of these include euphorbia, hellebourus and achillea. Others you may want to consider are campanula and heuchera.

TIP! Allow enough room between plants for air to circulate, so that plants do not stay too wet. Parasites are attracted to the moisture on plants.

Vegetables in a garden need to have at least six hours of sun every day in order to thrive. Most vegetables need that much sun to grow rapidly and successfully. This also rings true for some of the flowers.

TIP! Many people delight in the taste of fresh mint leaves, but become frustrated when the plant spreads wildly. You can stunt the growth of mint by planting it inside a container or super-sized bowl.

Come up with a gardening plan before planting anything. 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. It can also keep you from planting any of your garden favorites too close to each other.

TIP! Using pest-resistant plants or natural materials in your garden is a good way to keep pests away. For example, planting a border consisting of marigolds or onions can repel slugs.

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. The options for fertilizing are vast and include environmentally sound choices, so no matter which you choose, just be sure to use one.

TIP! Pouring the excess water from your dinner of steamed veggies on them can help. If you have rhododendrons or gardenias, use coffee and tea grounds to acidify the soil.

To keep pests away, you can use plants in the garden or other natural materials. Planting marigolds or onions around the border of your vegetable garden will help repel slugs. Insect pests will stay away from seedlings and trees if you use wood ash around the base as a mulch. Using these natural methods will reduce the need for potentially harmful chemical pesticides.

TIP! You can keep your dog away from your garden by spraying perfume or aftershave in the grass. This helps mask the attractive scents and can make your garden unappealing to them.

Place organic mulch as close to your vegetables as you can. Mulching helps keep moisture in the soil. It will also prevent weeds from sprouting. You will benefit by not having to spend so much time fighting weed growth.

TIP! It’s simple to lay a new perennial bed. Using a garden spade, dig underneath the turf and flip it.

Don’t use pesticides that aren’t meant to kill specific types of garden pests. In addition, these pesticides destroy the good insects which eat pests. 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 can cause you to use an additional amount of pesticides in order to attempt to fix this problem.

TIP! Learn to work efficiently. Don’t waste your time looking for missing tools.

When growing plants inside of the house, you should ensure the thermostat is set at around 65-75 degrees in the daytime. It is important for them to be kept in this temperature range if they are to grow properly. 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.

Pine Needles

TIP! Use equal parts of green and dried plant material in your compost pile. Green plant material can include items such as leftover produce waste, grass clippings and leaves.

Pine is a surprisingly good source of mulch. Some garden plants are high in acidity, and do better with acidic soil. 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! To make a credible claim that your crops are organically grown, you should be certified as organic by a credible organization. This can boost sales and tell loyal customers that you’re providing the best to them.

Lightly ruffle your seeds by hand or with cardboard, twice daily in your organic garden. This will sound a bit strange. However, it has been proven to cause plants to grow larger.

TIP! Adopting organic gardening methods may take more effort than traditional approaches, but the payoff is considerably worth it. Even though the claims of the chemicals may be astounding, the organic way is always going to provide the best reward to you and whoever is eating your crops.

Grow garlic in your organic garden. Plant single garlic cloves during the spring or fall seasons in soil that is moist and well-drained. Plant them approximately 4 inches apart at a depth of 1 or 2 inches beneath the surface of the soil with the pointed end facing upward. Green garlic can be cur directly from the plant and used in a pinch instead of scallions or chives. When your garlic tops are turning brown in color, they are ready to be dug. Harden the skin by setting the bulb in the sun, it usually takes several days. Garlic can be tied in bunches or left loose, and stored where it will be cool and dry.

TIP! Regulate the amount and timing of watering, to the specific climate and its seasonal variations. There are many variables of how much water your plants need including soil, light, and outdoor temperatures.

If organic gardening is something you desire to do, it’s critical that you are aware of the proper method to make beds. Begin by slicing beneath the turf using a spade. Once it is sliced, flip the turf up exposing the soil underneath. Now cover this exposed area with wood chips, about 3 or 4 inches. Leave it to settle for a couple of weeks and then you will be able to plant within it.

TIP! Using a soaker hose to water the garden is probably your best choice. As the water slowly seeps out of the hose, it is directed right to the plant roots so the leaves do not get wet.

Organic gardening just got easier! Plan your landscaping based primarily on native bushes, flowers and grasses. Plants that are adapted to your region’s climate, soil type and surrounding ecosystem thrive without the need for expensive fertilizers or insecticides. This way, your plants will thrive using compost created from other regional ingredients.

TIP! Try to make your organic garden a beautiful shade garden. This kind of garden requires surprisingly little maintenance, which is a relief for those without much time to devote to gardening.

Be sure you have information about what to look for when buying plants to add to your organic garden. This is very true of perennials or annuals. It is important to purchase those with buds that don’t have any blooms. This is how your new plants can a begin a strong network of roots.

TIP! If you want to do some organic gardening, plan ahead. Decide exactly which plants you’re going to grow.

As stated, organic gardening, and understanding the choices you have in terms of plants, can greatly affect your present and future dietary choices. The tips you’ve found above are sure to help you get off to a good start on growing chemical-free healthy food.

Top Organic Horticulture Advice From The Experts

~ craigb

Organic gardening can either be a major headache, or a very relaxing hobby. The following article is designed to turn you into a successful and happy organic gardener.

TIP! Brighten your garden with biennials and annuals. 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.

When horticulture, beware of stink bugs and other insects, particularly in the autumn. This insect will gladly devour your tomatoes, beans, and peppers, as well as a variety of other fruits. If you do not check, they do a lot of damage to plants so try to get rid of them if you can.

TIP! 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 vegetables need that much sun to grow rapidly and successfully.

Be sure to get rid of the weeds growing in your garden. Weeds can destroy a once promising garden and take away all its potential. For this task, try using white vinegar. White vinegar can not only kill the weeds, it’s also a non-toxic spray that won’t harm pets or people. If you’re annoyed with pulling up weeds manually, douse them with a white vinegar solution.

TIP! Before you start planting your garden, plan it out. Having a planting plan will help you correctly identify the young plants once they start to sprout.

Seeds should be soaked in a dark area overnight. Place a small amount of seeds in a little container, while filling it to the brim with water. When you do this, you hydrate your seeds and they can start growing. This improves the chances of successful plant development.

Both cat grass and wheat grass are good for giving your errant feline pause. Try putting mothballs or citrus on your soil to wards pets away.

TIP! Make sure you read instructions on products and tools before using them. Otherwise, you are likely to have skin irritations flare up, which can be extremely painful and uncomfortable.

Make sure that your deciduous shrubs are protected. If you have them in pots, you need to guard them from cold weather that will damage or kill them. Fasten the tops of the canes together, and cover this wigwam loosely with a cloth. When you do this you allow air to flow and circulate which can actually prevent rotting, this method is great and better than just wrapping your plant in some plastic.

TIP! Heather can bring helpful critters into your garden. Heather is quite alluring to bees; when spring comes along, it provides the bees with a source of nectar early.

Try and maintain daily aerated and dried plants. If you have excess moisture, this can attract bugs or diseases. A common parasite found in the plant kingdom is fungi. You can rid your garden of fungi with fungicidal sprays. However, it is best to treat your garden before there are problems.

TIP! Indoor plants have been bred over time to thrive in temperatures that are characteristic of a home. Most indoor plants like to be in about 70 degree temperatures, plus or minus 5 degrees.

Place organic mulch as close to your vegetables as you can. The mulch will add beneficial moisture to your soil. It will also prevent weeds from growing. This will save you a ton of time and work.

TIP! When you are growing organic plants within the home or an enclosed area, considering how much light the plants will receive must be emphasized. If you live somewhere without strong natural sunlight, you might want to look into growing plants that thrive in lower-light environments.

If you are going for a British feel with your garden, then vary the heights of your plants. Plants that are all at the same height makes a garden bed look flat and uninteresting.

TIP! To avoid tracking the mud and dirt that will get on your gardening shoes, use plastic bags. When you do this, your flow stays going, and you can just get right back out to your garden and finish quick.

Include your children in your efforts to organic gardening. Growing a garden is a great way to teach your children about nature while allowing you to have time to bond with them.

TIP! Get more value from your property. Landscaping increases your house’s curb appeal and give you a good return for the money invested.

It is essential to keep your knees protected as you garden. Many people experience back pain and stiffness from bending over and working in the garden for extended amounts of time. Kneeling can relieve pain in your back, but can instead be painful to your knees. A knee pad can be placed under your knees to protect them from damage and strain while you are working.

TIP! Creating a trap with beer can help reduce the number of slugs in your garden. First, place a glass canning jar in the soil, burying it until the mouth is even with the surface of the soil.

Indoor plants need an environment that is between 65 and 75 degrees. Plants need to be in an environment that is neither too warm nor too cool for them to grow. Heat lamps can be used to promote growth without the necessity of raising your home’s interior temperature.

TIP! Using organic produce from organic gardens which are free of pesticides is a great benefit. Of course, organic produce is much healthier, but you should still thoroughly rinse it before consumption.

To avoid tracking the mud and dirt that will get on your gardening shoes, use plastic bags. You will save time and be back in the garden much more quickly by doing this.

TIP! Plant your tomatoes in intervals of three weeks, starting from the original strain and they will grow in a more organized structure. This staggers your harvest over time.

When planting seeds, you should bury them three times as deep as their actual size. However, some seeds do not need to be covered, they need the sunlight. Petunia and ageratum seeds need direct sunlight, for example. If you do now know how to plant your seed, consult the information that came with the seed when you bought it or check online for helpful information.

TIP! Making beds is one of the most important skills you need to acquire. You can make a bed by slicing under the turf with a spade.

Try using a beer trap to naturally eradicate slugs from your organic garden. Take a glass jar and bury it in your garden so that the top of it is level with the soil. Pour beer into the jar until it’s almost full. Leave an inch of space between the beer and the jar top. Slugs will be attracted by the beer and fall into the jar.

TIP! Grow some crops that have a high value! The values of individual types of plants do vary by person, though. Growing expensive plants in your home will save you money at the market.

Be aware of the location you are in, and the seasonal and climate changes that occur. Make sure that you adjust your watering cycles to match these changes. There are many variables of how much water your plants need including soil, light, and outdoor temperatures. In warm climates with high humidity, for instance, plants often develop fungal infections when water is applied to the leaves. Rather, make sure the root system is watered.

TIP! A great way to obtain fertilizer for your garden is by making your own compost. You can do this by creating a worm composting bin.

If you over-water your plants, they can’t get all the nutrients they need from the dirt. Only water as necessary when there is no rain in the forecast, or for plants which need extra watering. If the weather forecast calls for rain, it’s probably wise to not water your plants that day.

TIP! Using plenty of mulch can help you save water in the garden. The more mulch that you spread in your garden, the less watering you will need to do.

Plant your tomatoes in intervals of three weeks, starting from the original strain and they will grow in a more organized structure. Doing this will keep your whole harvest from popping up at the same time. If there’s an issue with one of your harvests, you’ll still have a batch of tomatoes that are safe.

Organic Gardening

TIP! Use rainwater to water you plants to help the environment. Using a barrel or any sort of container to collect any amount of rainwater can not only save you money on your water bill every month, but you are using a natural resource as well.

Now that you’ve read this article, you can see that there is much more to do with organic gardening than meets the eye. Organic horticulture demands hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity, but your sacrifices will be rewarded when you can look out of your bedroom window and see a stunning organic garden in your own backyard, that you created with your own bare hands. When you follow the organic gardening advice in the article above, you will have a successful and delicious bounty of fresh foods.

Organic Horticulture Tips That Will Help You Grow Better Food

~ craigb

TIP! Plant a variety of flowers to keep your flower garden colorful and interesting. Annuals and biennials can add excitement and interest to your flower garden every season.

Organic horticulture doesn’t have to be grueling work. Indeed, it can be quite enjoyable. But, when a person begins organic gardening, they may feel overwhelmed. Are you interested in cultivating green gardens and earning that green thumb? Keep reading to discover some useful tips and tactics.

TIP! It’s sometimes possible to save certain plants from winter cold by bringing them inside. Think about saving your resistant plants or the expensive ones.

Learn the proper way to lay sod. You want to prepare the soil before you lay down the sod. Weeds should be removed, and you should break up the soil into a tilth. Compress the soil lightly yet firmly, and make certain it’s flat. Moisten the soil thoroughly. You want the sod laid down in staggered rows, and the joints to be offset from each other. Sod should be firm and have an even, flat surface without gaps. 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.

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.

Annuals and biennials are an excellent way to add a splash of bright color to your flower gardens. The annuals and biennials are usually fast growing because they only last one season, and this will let you change the garden every season for a nice change of pace. They are very helpful when trying to fill in gaps between shrubs and perennials in an area that is sunny. A variety of flowers that will thrive in your region are available.

TIP! Ensure that your plants are kept dry, and aerated daily. Plant moisture is a big attraction to both parasites and plant diseases.

For the best results, select the right kind of soil. Depending on the type of plants you desire in your garden, your natural soil may or may not be appropriate. It is also possible to create individual areas with one specific soil type.

TIP! Split up your irises. The more you divide clusters of irises, the more your irises will multiply.

Before actually putting plants into your garden, check the type and compostion of your soil. Pay a small fee to have your soil analyzed, and you’ll be glad that you did when you understand what nutrients your soil is lacking. Cooperative Extension departments often offer this testing service. It is a worthwhile effort so a garden can be productive on the first year of planting.

TIP! If you know that you’ll be in the garden for an extended period of time, protect yourself from the sun with proper attire. Pair sunglasses with wide-brimmed hats and a dab of sunblock.

Be sure to do some weeding on a regular basis. Weeds will cause your garden to become overgrown and cluttered. To help with the removal, you can use white vinegar. White vinegar can not only kill the weeds, it’s also a non-toxic spray that won’t harm pets or people. So, use a spray solution of white vinegar if you are tired of pulling those weeds by hand.

TIP! Keep your garden tools close at hand to make the most of your gardening time. For example, you could use an over-sized tote bag or an apron with multiple pockets.

Protect your delicate shrubs from harsh, wintry elements. If you have them in pots, you need to guard them from cold weather that will damage or kill them. First tie together the tops; then take a sheet or blanket and loosely shroud the wigwam. When you do this you allow air to flow and circulate which can actually prevent rotting, this method is great and better than just wrapping your plant in some plastic.

TIP! You can stop mud from being tracked into your house by covering your dirty gardening shoes with plastic bags. This way, you can maintain your momentum and head right back to your garden so that you can finish what you were doing.

Do you enjoy your mint leaves, but can’t stand how they dominate your garden? Instead of planting mint in your garden, keep it in a large container or pot to prevent it from spreading. You have the option of planting the container with the plant to keep the roots from taking the garden over.

TIP! Put coffee grounds in your soil. The grounds contain essential nitrogen, which will benefit your plants in many ways.

Consider planting evergreens that produce berries in your yard. The berries will provide a boost of color to your backyard, even during the colder months when most of the other vegetation has been drained of their color. Other plants that boast of winter berries include: Holly, Snowberry and Winterberry.

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.

Pest control is tough when you have a veggie garden. Avoid spraying harsh chemicals on fruits and vegetables destined for your table. Research the methods available for eliminating garden pests organically. If you catch them when there are only a few around, you can actually pick them off the plants by hand.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! Mulch your garden to keep the soil nourished. A couple of inches of mulch will protect what lies beneath it.

Add coffee grounds to your garden’s soil. Coffee grounds are filled with nitrogen, that is a nutrient required by plants. Usually, nitrogen is limited with a plant, but using coffee grounds, diluted urea, or compost can make your plants grow faster and taller.

TIP! Make sure that you plant your crops in segments at three-week intervals. This way you will not have to harvest all of your crops at once.

Use an old laundry basket to bring your fresh produce in from the garden. The laundry basket can be used as a colander for your produce. You can clean and rinse the harvest when it is the laundry basket and the water will go out of the holes.

TIP! Make your organic garden easier to maintain. When deciding what to plant, opt for flowers, grasses and shrubs that are native to your area.

If slugs are a problem in your garden, use a beer trap to kill them naturally. Place a jar into the soil so that the top of it’s mouth rests parallel with the soil. Fill the jar with beer to an inch below the jar’s top. Slugs will crawl into the jar to get the beer and not be able to get out again.

TIP! You have to decide what you want to grow in your organic garden. Not all varieties of flowers and produce are suited to the same type of environment.

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. While chemical pesticides and fertilizers may claim to do great things for your garden, organic methods will give you the best crops possible.

TIP! When the soil is healthier, the plants are too, and can resist more diseases and damage that’s caused by insects. Even though the insects remain there, you will prevent them from damaging your garden, keeping everyone happy.

Reading this article has hopefully given you some great ideas to begin your experiences in organic gardening. It provides so much opportunity for relaxation in a soothing environment and so much reward when the garden flourishes. Use these tips to see your garden flourish!

Compost Your Own Fertilizer For A Better Garden

~ craigb

TIP! Turn the handles of your garden tools into measuring rulers. Tools with substantial handles, like rakes, hoes and large shovels are great for taking measurements.

Organic horticulture has gained popularity from people who no longer wish to consume produce that has been treated with chemicals and pesticides, which can damage the environment and a person’s health. Additionally, most organic gardening techniques cost very little money. Here are some essential tips to help you become an expert organic gardener.

TIP! Having healthy soil in your garden is your number one defense against pests! If you are producing healthy plants, they will be stronger and better able to resist bugs and diseases. For the most vigorous and healthy plants, start with high-quality soil, and stay away from chemicals.

Plant perennials that are slug-proof. If slugs or snails find their favorite perennials in your garden, they’ll snack all night. When you wake up in the morning, there will be very little left of your plants. They often enjoy feeding on perennials with very smooth and tender leaves. Young plants are a special favorite of theirs. Perennials that have thick, furry leaves and unpleasant tastes are less likely to attract slugs and snails. Some varieties of these plants are campanula, helleborus, heuchera, or euphorbia.

TIP! Transfer your favorite plants inside so they survive the winter. You can save the ones you spent the most money on or the ones that are resistant.

You may be able to re-pot some plants to bring indoors for the winter. Choose the plants that are most likely to survive. Dig around roots carefully before transferring to a pot.

TIP! Make sure you protect any tender deciduous shrubs. Cold weather significantly affects these plants, especially if they are in pots.

Pick the correct soil to get the best results. Depending on the type of plants you desire in your garden, your natural soil may or may not be appropriate. You can also create an artificial area with only one kind of soil.

TIP! Always fertilize your garden. Manure is probably the best fertilizer.

If you want your garden to sport flowers in the spring as well as summer, plant bulbs. Bulbs are one of the easiest plants to grow and are hardy perennials that return each year. If you choose your plants carefully, you could have flowers in blossom from the first weeks of spring to the end of the summer.

TIP! Carefully read and follow the instructions that come with your chemicals and tools, especially when you’re just starting to garden. It may seem simple enough, but not following it could lead to chemical burns and skin irritations.

When mowing the lawn, don’t mow the grass all the way down to the root. 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. Cutting your grass too short will cause it to dry out and turn brown in patches throughout your yard.

TIP! Be smart when you water your garden. A soaker hose can save valuable time by watering all of your plants simultaneously, removing the need for hauling a watering can or hose around to each plant.

Protect your tender deciduous shrubs. Tender, potted shrubs must be protected when the weather is cold. Tie the tops tightly together, and cover the wigwam with a sheet or blanket draped loosely over it. Doing this is a lot more effective than wrapping up the plant with plastic because it lets air circulate, which could avoid any rotting.

TIP! 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. Your cultivated garden spaces will benefit from the various insects and wildlife that will inhabit and pollinate the undeveloped space.

Always fertilize your garden. Manure is a great garden additive, but it is important that you choose a manure that has been composted commercially so that there is less of a risk of pathogens. There are a wide variety of fertilizing options available, although which type you use is not that important; just make sure to use something.

TIP! If you cut your hand, you can use a glove to protect it from germs and chemicals until it heals. A cut can become infected if dirt is allowed to enter the cut while gardening.

Gardening is an incredible method of relaxing. Countless methods of unwinding from the stresses of life exist. Of these, horticulture is by far one of the most enjoyable and easiest to start. Horticulture does not require a lot of dollars to start, and yields tremendous benefits. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect is the sense of peace and calm that comes from nurturing your plants.

TIP! Do not rush planting seeds in your garden. Start by getting the soil good and moist.

Pick one plant to serve as your garden’s focal point. A focal point can help direct a viewers gaze. Frequently, it will be a plant that’s very different from others in the neighborhood.

TIP! Add three inches of mulch to your flower beds. Using this much mulch retards weed growth, locks in moisture, and ensures that your plants are well-nourished.

Keep your garden tools close at hand to make the most of your gardening time. For example, you could use an over-sized tote bag or an apron with multiple pockets. Keep your trowel, pruning shears and gloves handy so you can do your garden work quickly and easily.

TIP! Use coffee grounds on your soil. Plants can use the nitrogenous nutrients found in coffee grounds.

Learn to work efficiently. Don’t waste your time by searching high and low for that packet of seeds or spade. Get all of your tools together before you go into your garden, then place them in a safe spot when you are finished with them. A good way to keep your tools at hand is to buy a tool belt or utility pants with many large pockets.

Coffee Grounds

TIP! It is a good idea to get organic garden certification so as to reaffirm your claims that your products really are organic. This attracts customers who are willing to drive a little farther and pay a little more for products that are safe and healthy.

Using coffee grounds as part of your soil mixture in your garden is often advised for healthy plants. Coffee beans are loaded with nitrogen, which offers nourishment for plants. Nitrogen is a nutrient that will help your plants grow taller and bloom faster, so use those coffee grounds, extra compost, or diluted urea to make this happen.

TIP! Always give your garden the benefit of looking beneath the upper portions of a plant. Evaluate each tomato and check for green starts, as they generally have bad root systems that impede growth.

Gardening can actually increase the value of your property! Landscaping your property provides one of the best returns on home improvement. A few select plants can raise your property value dramatically. Different plants thrive in different environments, so be sure to invest in plants that are low in moisture, and will flourish in your garden.

TIP! You need to be very specific about what organic plants you plan to grow in the garden. There are a variety of environments that certain vegetables and flowers thrive in to grow.

It is a good idea to get organic garden certification so as to reaffirm your claims that your products really are organic. That way, you will realize greater sales volume and demonstrate the value of your produce to potential and returning customers.

TIP! Weeds are a problem in any garden, even organic ones. This organic weed killer is safer for the environment and you and your family.

Add mulch to keep your soil healthy. A thick layer of mulch offers protection to the soil underneath it. This protective effect is especially important during the summer, as it protects the roots from the effects of the heat. The soil will also stay moist longer because it reduces evaporation. Mulch is also great for controlling weed growth.

TIP! Remember to buy plants for your organic garden in an intelligent manner. You should definitely keep this in mind when you buy perennials and annuals.

Organic foods do not possess any pesticides on them. This is great for the health of your family, but you will still have to regularly check your plants for bugs and pests.

TIP! Among the most effective of all gardening techniques is mulching. Mulching also works to slow water evaporation and limit weed growth.

By taking advantage of the advice you’ve read in this article, you’ll be able to have a garden free of pesticides and full of healthy produce. When you are organic gardening and working with nature, you will also see a lot of wildlife coming to visit!

Try These Great Gardening Ideas Even If You Don’t Have A Green Thumb

~ craigb

TIP! To keep your plants from getting shocked, you need to gradually introduce them to changes in temperature and conditions. Put them outdoors in the sun for no more than two hours the first day.

Vegan, vegetarian and other holistic practices have become increasingly popular as millions turn to organic foods for nourishment. When you choose this form of lifestyle, then you opt for growing herbs and other things solely for beneficial reasons and you always aim for organic growing techniques. Read through this article to learn what you need to do when it comes to organic gardening.

TIP! Trying to shovel through clay soil can be extremely difficult and tiresome. To make working in clay easier, rub the shovel with floor or car wax and then buff it with a cloth.

Pay attention to how you lay sod. The soil requires preparation before sod can be laid. Pull any weeds and break up any clods of soil. Lightly, but firmly pack the soil down, and make sure that it is flat. The soil should be adequately moistened. Lay the sod in rows, and make sure the joints do not overlap. Cut away extra sod and save it to fill in gaps you may create later. The sod needs to be watered daily for two weeks, by which time it will be rooted and ready to walk on.

TIP! Get a slug-proof variety of perennials. These mollusks are capable of consuming an entire garden full of flowers in a single night.

Be vigilant about keeping moisture off your plants. If you have excess moisture, this can attract bugs or diseases. One common organism that thrives on moisture is the fungi family. Fungi can be controlled with fungicide sprays, but it is important to treat your area with the spray, before you see any problems.

TIP! When the fall season approaches, you must prepare to plant your favorite fall veggies and other edibles. Instead of using regular clay pots this year for planting lettuce and kale, try a pumpkin container instead! To use the pumpkin as a planter, it is important to prevent it from rotting.

If you find yourself in love with mint leaves, but not with how they dominate a garden, read on. Stunt their growth a little by planting your mint into a garden container or large pot instead. Plant the container in the ground, but its walls will hold those roots captive, and will prevent the plant from engulfing your garden!

TIP! If you are considering planting a garden take the time to plan it out. This will assist you in recognizing your tiny plants when they start to pop up.

Split up irises. You can get more irises by dividing the overgrown clumps. When the foliage has died off, it is time to harvest the iris bulbs. They will literally split in your hand, flowering the next year after replanting. Divide up the rhizomes with a knife. Cut rhizomes from around the outside then throw away the remaining center. Make sure that every cutting contains a viable offshoot. Replant your pieces right away.

TIP! Place at least an inch of mulch that is organic in with your veggies! Mulch has a nice moisturizing effect on the soil it’s spread over. It will also prevent weeds from growing.

Be aware of the optimum time frame for harvesting vegetables. Different vegetables have different, ideal times that they should be picked for best flavor. For example, zucchini and baby peas are best picked young. At the opposite end of the spectrum, tomatoes are at their best when mature. So, find out the best time to harvest your vegetables.

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.

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. You can prevent pests from appearing in the garden by adopting a vigilant attitude. When you see bugs, remove them by hand before they have a chance of spreading.

TIP! A typical English garden combines various plants of differing heights in a single bed. Using plants of all the same kind or size, can result in a boring, and unoriginal garden.

Plant things that will give you color for the fall. That idea is actually far from the truth. The brightest season of the year when it comes to foliage is fall. Maple trees, Dogwood, and Beech trees exist in lots of Fall colors that range from deep crimson to yellow. Barberry, conaneaster and hydrangea are all wonderful choices in shrubs.

TIP! You never want to do any gardening 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. Open wounds can easily get infected while gardening because you’re exposing yourself to dirt, bacteria and germs.

Planting organic strawberries is a great way to encourage your children to get involved. Children find it fun to pick strawberries and love to assist with the harvest if they get some yummy treats as they work.

TIP! Keep your tools handy to work more efficiently. You can keep them in a good sized bucket, or wear utility pants that have plenty of large pockets.

Aspirin water has disease-prevention properties that can protect plants. Dissolve one aspirin and a half for 2 gallons of water. Spray your plants with the water if they have a disease. Spraying should be one time every three weeks.

TIP! Want to kill weeds naturally? Pile newspapers on top of each other to kill weeds. In order to grow, weeds need sunlight.

You can cover your muddied gardening footware easily by keeping plastic bags around. 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.

Laundry Basket

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.

You can use something like a laundry basket to gather all of your produce together when the time comes. An old laundry basket makes an excellent strainer for cleaning your produce. You can clean and rinse the harvest when it is the laundry basket and the water will go out of the holes.

TIP! Gardening is a good way to connect with nature, but organic gardening remains the best way to observe natural cycles. This kind of gardening shows you the entire progression of planting from beginning to end.

Keep your compost pile balanced with a combination of dried and green plant mulch. Green plant material includes grass clippings, spent flowers, vegetable and fruit waste, weeds and leaves. For the dry end of the spectrum, think of things like paper and cardboard, sawdust, hay, etc. Avoid using animal manure, charcoal or diseased plants in your compost.

TIP! Plant your own garlic with organic methods. The best time to plant garlic is either early spring or in the fall.

Lightly ruffle your seeds by hand or with cardboard, twice daily in your organic garden. However odd this may sound, research shows that this touching encourages seedlings to grow better than they would without touching.

TIP! It’s not what’s on the surface that counts. Even if the plant looks lush on the upper leaves, the root system can have problems.

Mulch your garden to keep the soil nourished. Mulch can give your soil some additional protection and nourishment. It protects roots because it helps the soil stay cooler when it’s hot outside. The layer of mulch will also minimize evaporation, reducing your need to water as frequently as you would a garden without mulch. As an added bonus, weed growth will be stunted.

TIP! Use a soaker hose to water your organic garden. The water slowly seeps from these hoses and is positioned so the roots get the water, and the leaves remain dry.

Get to the root of the matter! 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. These starts will stick around on the main plant for several weeks, hindering the growth of the seedling as long as they are present.

TIP! Here is a great way to make organic gardening fun and easy. Bushes, native grasses, and flowers should be the essentials of your landscaping needs.

The more organic gardening tips you are able to pick up, the easier horticulture will eventually become for you. Keep in mind that the tips in this article are only intended as a starting point.