Author

Donna

Donna, with dirt under her fingernails and a heart full of sunshine, is your guide to creating a thriving garden. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a curious beginner, Donna's writing is a welcoming haven for anyone who wants to cultivate beauty and bounty in their own backyard.

Gardening

Growing Poinsettias: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 10, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Poinsettias: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Enjoying Them

Introduction

Poinsettias are a popular Christmas plant, but they can also be enjoyed year-round with a little care. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for poinsettias.

Growing Poinsettias

Poinsettias are short day plants, meaning they need around 14 hours of darkness each day to flower. In the fall, start giving your poinsettia 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night. You can do this by placing it in a dark room or covering it with a box.

Poinsettias also need plenty of bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Water them when the soil is almost dry to the touch.

Keeping Poinsettias for Next Year

If you want to keep your poinsettia for next year, follow these steps:

Prune the stems back to 10cm in April.
Repot the plant into a larger pot with fresh soil in May.
Feed the plant with a houseplant food every two weeks in summer.
Place the plant in a dark room for 12 hours each day from November to stimulate flowering.

Peat-Free Poinsettias

Peat is a non-renewable resource that can damage the environment. If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, choose a peat-free poinsettia. Many garden centers now offer peat-free poinsettias.

Princettias

Princettias are a type of poinsettia that comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and blush pink. They are a bit more expensive than traditional red poinsettias, but they can add a unique touch to your holiday décor.

Christmas Cactus

If you’re not a fan of poinsettias, the Christmas cactus is a great alternative. It’s a low-maintenance plant that blooms with beautiful pink or white flowers around Christmas time.

Conclusion

Poinsettias are a beautiful and festive addition to any home during the holidays. With a little care, you can enjoy them for years to come.

Gardening Techniques

How to Prune Sambucus: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 10, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Pruning Sambucus: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Pruning is an important part of gardening. It helps keep plants healthy and looking their best. Sambucus, also known as elder, is a type of shrub that can benefit from pruning. Pruning sambucus can help keep it compact and healthy, and it can also encourage flowering and fruiting.

When to Prune Sambucus

The best time to prune sambucus is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will give the plant time to recover from pruning and put on new growth in the spring.

How to Prune Sambucus

To prune sambucus, follow these steps:

Examine the plant. Look for any diseased or damaged branches. These should be removed first.
Cut back long stems. Use sharp loppers or secateurs to cut back long stems to just above a node. A node is a bulge or leaf scar on the stem.
Remove old or weak shoots. Cut out any old or weak shoots that are not producing new growth.
Create a well-formed framework. Keep cutting back stems until you have created a well-formed framework for the plant. This framework should have no weak stems at the base.

Benefits of Pruning Sambucus

Pruning sambucus has a number of benefits, including:

Keeps the plant compact and healthy
Encourages flowering and fruiting
Improves air circulation
Reduces the risk of disease

Tips for Pruning Sambucus

Here are a few tips for pruning sambucus:

Always use sharp tools.
Cut at a slant to prevent water from collecting on the cut.
Remove all diseased or damaged branches.
Don’t be afraid to cut back hard. Sambucus can tolerate hard pruning.
After pruning, fertilize the plant to help it recover.

Conclusion

Pruning sambucus is a simple task that can have a big impact on the health and appearance of the plant. By following these tips, you can keep your sambucus looking its best for years to come.

Gardening

How to Grow Strawberries: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 9, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

How to Grow Strawberries: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Strawberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, and in a variety of desserts. They are relatively easy to grow, even for beginners, and can be grown in a variety of spaces, including gardens, pots, and hanging baskets.

Choosing Strawberry Plants

When choosing strawberry plants, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Variety: There are many different varieties of strawberries, each with its own unique flavor, size, and ripening time. Choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and the space you have available.
Disease resistance: Some strawberry varieties are more resistant to pests and diseases than others. Choose a variety that is resistant to common problems in your area.
Ripening time: If you want to enjoy strawberries over a long season, choose a variety that ripens at different times.

Planting Strawberries

Strawberries can be planted in the spring or fall. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the plant’s roots and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant well.

Strawberry Plant Care

Strawberry plants need regular watering, especially during hot weather. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can promote disease. Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

To encourage strong growth and prevent weeds, mulch around the plants with straw or compost. You can also use a strawberry mat, which is a specially designed fabric that allows water and nutrients to reach the plants while keeping weeds out.

Harvesting Strawberries

Strawberries are ready to harvest when they are fully red and slightly soft to the touch. Gently pinch the stem just above the fruit to remove it. Avoid pulling on the stem, as this can damage the plant.

Propagating Strawberries

Strawberry plants can be propagated from runners, which are long stems that grow from the base of the plant. To propagate a strawberry plant from a runner, simply choose a healthy runner with at least one leaf and remove any stems emerging from the new leaves. Fill a pot with potting mix and place the runner on the surface. Hold it in place with a u-shaped staple or a piece of wire. Keep the potting mix moist and, once the new plant has developed strong roots, snip off the stem connecting it to the parent plant and plant it in the ground or a larger pot.

Troubleshooting Common Strawberry Problems

Slugs and snails: These pests can eat strawberries, leaving behind holes in the fruit. To control slugs and snails, use organic pest control methods such as beer traps or slug bait.
Birds: Birds love to eat strawberries. To protect your berries, cover them with a secure net.
Grey mould: This fungal disease can cause strawberries to rot. To prevent grey mould, water plants in the morning so they have time to dry out before nightfall. Also, remove any damaged fruits to prevent the problem from spreading.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white powdery spots to form on strawberry leaves. To control powdery mildew, keep the soil moist and remove any affected leaves promptly.
Vine weevil: These pests can damage strawberry roots, causing the plants to wilt and die. To control vine weevil, use a biological control such as nematodes.

Conclusion

Growing strawberries is a rewarding experience that can provide you with delicious, homegrown fruit for many years to come. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow healthy, productive strawberry plants in your own garden.

Gardening

Modern Garden Benches: The Ultimate Guide to Stylish Outdoor Seating

by Donna July 9, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Modern Garden Benches: A Guide for Stylish Outdoor Spaces

Introduction

Garden benches are a great addition to any outdoor space. They provide a comfortable place to relax, socialize, or simply enjoy the scenery. With so many different styles and materials to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide will help you choose the perfect modern garden bench for your needs.

Types of Garden Benches

Planter benches: These benches have built-in planters on either side, making them a great way to add greenery to your seating area.
Storage benches: These benches have a built-in storage compartment underneath the seat, perfect for storing garden cushions or other outdoor essentials.
Foldable benches: These benches can be folded up for easy storage or portability.
Metal benches: Metal benches are durable and weather-resistant, making them a good choice for all-weather use.
Wooden benches: Wooden benches are classic and stylish, and can be painted or varnished to match your garden décor.

Features to Consider

When choosing a garden bench, there are a few key features to keep in mind:

Size: Make sure the bench is the right size for your space. You should have enough room to sit comfortably without feeling cramped.
Material: Choose a material that is durable and weather-resistant, such as metal, concrete, or treated wood.
Style: Choose a bench that matches the style of your garden. Modern benches come in a variety of styles, from sleek and minimalist to classic and ornate.
Comfort: Make sure the bench is comfortable to sit on. Look for a bench with a supportive backrest and seat.

Our Top Picks

Here are a few of our top picks for modern garden benches:

Argos Home Wooden 4 Seater Picnic Bench: This classic picnic bench is perfect for families and gatherings.
Lahan Garden Planter Bench: This glass-reinforced concrete bench is stylish and durable, with a built-in planter for added greenery.
Pacific Lifestyle Richmond Light Teak Acacia Wood Bench with Pop-Up Table: This bench has a unique pop-up table feature, perfect for drinks or snacks.
SOVANA Acacia Wood Garden Bench with Storage: This acacia wood bench has a built-in storage compartment, perfect for storing garden cushions or other essentials.
Amara Fatboy Toni Banksi Outdoor Bench: This metal bench is UV-resistant and waterproof, making it a great choice for all-weather use.

Conclusion

With so many different modern garden benches to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a classic wooden bench or a stylish metal bench, there’s a bench out there that will complement your garden and provide years of enjoyment.

Gardening

Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden: Simple Tips for a Thriving Ecosystem

by Donna July 7, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Introduction

A garden is not just about plants. It’s also about wildlife, like birds, insects, and animals. Gardening and protecting nature can go hand in hand.

Tips for a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Use Non-Chemical Slug Deterrents: Copper collars around plants can keep slugs away.
Grow Single Flowers: Single flowers have more nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies.
Plant a Pot of Pollen: Even a small pot of pollen-rich plants can help pollinators thrive.
Stop Using Pesticides: Pesticides can harm beneficial insects.
Attract Birds: Put up nest boxes and feed birds year-round.
Let Birds Control Pests: Birds can eat grubs and other pests.
Sow a Patch of Wildflowers: Wildflowers provide food and shelter for wildlife.
Make a Wildlife Pond: A pond attracts frogs, toads, and other animals.
Make a Log Pile: Dead wood provides a home for insects and other creatures.

Wildlife-Friendly Plants

Buddleja (Butterfly Bush): Attracts butterflies.
Lavender: Bees and butterflies love its fragrance.
Flag Iris: Dragonfly larvae use its leaves to escape from the pond.
Crab Apple: Birds eat its berries, and bees love its blossoms.
Hawthorn: A great nesting site for birds.

Conclusion

Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is easy and rewarding. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful space that benefits both wildlife and you.

Gardening

10 Ways to Get Ahead in Autumn Gardening: A Comprehensive Guide for Lazy Gardeners

by Donna July 7, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

10 Ways to Get Ahead in Autumn Gardening: A Guide for Lazy Gardeners

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to swing into action and get your garden ready for winter. By doing a few simple tasks now, you can save yourself a lot of work in the spring and ensure that your garden is looking its best.

Prepare Your Lawn for Autumn

Lay a new lawn: If your lawn is looking tired, autumn is a great time to lay a new one. The damp, warm conditions will help the seeds germinate quickly, and you’ll only need to water them minimally.
Repair your lawn: If your lawn is patchy or has bare spots, you can repair it by weeding and reseeding. First, rake out any dead grass or “thatch” to ensure that the new seeds can reach the soil. Then, sow the seeds and water them well.

Plant Perennials and Divide Existing Ones

Plant perennials: Autumn is a good time to plant hardy perennials, such as trees, shrubs, roses, and flowering plants. The warm soil will encourage speedy root growth, and the autumn rain will help to keep them well-watered.
Divide perennials: If your perennials are becoming overcrowded, you can divide them in the autumn. This will increase their vigor and give you new plants for free.

Plant Bare-Root Plants

Plant bare-root plants: Dormant, bare-root plants, such as roses, trees, shrubs, hedges, and perennials, can be planted in autumn and winter. This is a great way to save money, and the plants will establish themselves quickly.

Pull Up Weeds

Pull up annual weeds: Flowering annual weeds, such as chickweed, should be pulled up now before they set seed in the spring. This will help to prevent them from spreading throughout your garden.

Tie In Climbers and Stake Trees

Tie in climbers: Inspect your trellises and arches to make sure they are secure. Autumn and winter gales can bring the whole lot down, so it’s best to fix any problems now. Tie in climbers securely and stake trees to prevent them from being damaged by strong winds.

Sow Hardy Annuals and Sweet Peas

Sow hardy annuals: If you have well-drained soil, you can sow hardy annuals directly in the ground in autumn. You’ll get earlier flowers next year.
Sow sweet peas: Sweet peas can be sown in an unheated greenhouse or cold frame in autumn. The plants will be sturdier and bloom longer than spring-sown ones.

Deep Clean the Greenhouse

Clean the greenhouse: Cleaning your greenhouse now will help to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold. Empty it completely, remove any shading, and wash the glass inside and out. Also, wash the staging and remove any debris or old pots.

Clean and Sharpen Tools

Clean and sharpen tools: Maintain your garden tools by cleaning, maintaining, sharpening, and oiling them. This will help them to last longer and be ready for next year.

Other Tips for Lazy Gardeners

Create a compost pile: Composting is a great way to recycle your garden waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
Mulch your garden: Mulching your garden with organic matter, such as bark or compost, will help to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
Water your plants deeply: Water your plants deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and often. This will encourage deep root growth and make your plants more drought-tolerant.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re struggling with any of these tasks, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or gardening expert.

By following these tips, you can get your garden ready for winter and ensure that it’s looking its best in the spring.

Gardening Techniques

Growing Boxwood: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts Alike

by Donna July 6, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Growing Boxwood: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Boxwood, also known as Buxus sempervirens, is a versatile evergreen shrub that has been prized for centuries for its use in hedging, topiary, and formal gardens. Despite recent challenges from pests and diseases, boxwood remains a popular choice for gardeners due to its adaptability and ease of care. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and maintain healthy boxwood plants.

Varieties of Boxwood

There are several varieties of boxwood available, each with its own unique characteristics:

Common Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens): The most common type of boxwood, known for its small, dense leaves and compact growth habit.
Golden Triumph (Buxus microphylla ‘Golden Triumph’): A hardy cultivar with smaller, yellow-green leaves that add a touch of color to the landscape.
Suffruticosa (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’): A dwarf variety with a slow growth rate, making it ideal for low hedging and topiary.
Blauer Heinz (Buxus sempervirens ‘Blauer Heinz’): A slow-growing variety with bluish-green foliage, perfect for hedging and topiary balls.
Rocket (Buxus sempervirens ‘Rocket’): A fast-growing variety with a narrow, upright habit, suitable for taller hedging.
Elegans (Buxus sempervirens ‘Elegans’): A variegated variety with creamy-silvery bordered leaves, adding a touch of elegance to your garden.

How to Plant Boxwood

When to Plant: Boxwood can be planted anytime of the year except when the ground is frozen. Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for planting.
Where to Plant: Boxwood prefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
How to Plant: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility. Place the boxwood in the hole and backfill with the amended soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Boxwood

Watering: Water boxwood regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize boxwood once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune boxwood in mid to late summer to maintain its shape and size. Prune lightly to avoid stimulating new growth that may be susceptible to frost damage.
Mulching: Spread a layer of mulch around boxwood plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pests and Diseases

Box Blight: A fungal disease that causes leaf loss and weakens boxwood plants. Cut out infected areas and destroy them. Avoid pruning in wet conditions and disinfect tools between cuts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Box Tree Caterpillar: A pest that feeds on boxwood leaves, defoliating the plant. Handpick caterpillars or use pheromone traps, biological controls, or insecticides to manage the infestation.
Volutella Blight: A less damaging type of blight that causes similar symptoms to box blight. Cut out affected areas and disinfect tools.

Troubleshooting

Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can be caused by frost damage, lack of water, or waterlogged soil. Wait until after the last frost to trim away yellow leaves and allow new growth to emerge.
Orange Leaves: Orange leaves can indicate sunburn, lack of nutrients, or waterlogged soil. Water and fertilize the plant, and if growing in a pot, check for rootbound conditions.
Hard Pruning: Boxwood generally responds well to hard pruning. Cut back neglected trees to within 15-30cm of the ground in May, or prune in stages over several years.

Conclusion

Growing boxwood is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and structure to your garden. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your boxwood plants thrive for years to come. Remember to choose the right variety for your needs, plant and care for them properly, and be vigilant for pests and diseases. With a little effort, you can enjoy the timeless elegance of boxwood in your own outdoor space.

Gardening

Growing Snowberry Bushes: A Guide to Planting, Care, and Propagation

by Donna July 6, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Growing Snowberry Bushes

Introduction

Snowberry bushes (Symphoricarpos) are beautiful shrubs that are easy to grow and care for. They’re known for their clusters of white berries that appear in the fall and last into winter. Snowberries are also great for wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and other animals.

Growing Conditions

Snowberry bushes can grow in any type of soil that doesn’t get too wet. They prefer full sun to partial shade. The best time to plant snowberries is in the fall, but you can also plant them in the spring.

Planting Instructions

To plant a snowberry bush, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the bush in the hole and spread out the roots. Fill in the hole with soil and water deeply.

Care and Maintenance

Snowberry bushes are low-maintenance plants. They only need to be watered regularly, especially during the first growing season. You should also prune them in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches.

Propagation

Snowberry bushes can be propagated by division or by taking cuttings. Division is the easiest method. Simply dig up a clump of the plant and divide it into smaller sections. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, woody stems in the fall.

Pests and Diseases

Snowberry bushes are generally trouble-free from pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects. To control these pests, you can spray the bushes with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Uses

Snowberry bushes are versatile plants that can be used in a variety of ways. They make a good hedge, either alone or as part of a mixed native hedge. They can also be planted in woodland edges or in natural-looking plantings of shrubs and trees.

Conclusion

Snowberry bushes are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. They’re great for wildlife, and they can be used in a variety of ways. With a little care and attention, snowberry bushes will thrive for many years to come.

Houseplants

Streptocarpus: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Caring for Cape Primrose

by Donna July 5, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Streptocarpus: A Guide to Growing and Caring for Cape Primrose

Introduction

Streptocarpus, also known as Cape primrose, are beautiful houseplants that are easy to grow and care for. They are native to South Africa and are prized for their lush green leaves and vibrant, primrose-like flowers.

Growing Conditions

Streptocarpus thrive in bright, indirect light, similar to what they would receive in their natural mountain habitats. They prefer warm temperatures and high humidity, so a bathroom or kitchen is an ideal location.

Watering

Water Streptocarpus regularly, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Feed Streptocarpus every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Repotting

Repot Streptocarpus every spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Propagation

Streptocarpus can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings. Simply remove a healthy leaf from the plant and insert the stem into moist potting mix.

Troubleshooting

Wilting: Overwatering or underwatering. Adjust watering frequency accordingly.
Few flowers: Insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location.
Brown leaf tips: Underwatering. Water more frequently.
Grey mold: Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Mealybugs: Remove affected leaves and spray with an organic insecticide.

Best Varieties

There are many beautiful Streptocarpus varieties to choose from, including:

Streptocarpus ‘Caitlin’: Pink flowers
Streptocarpus ‘Harlequin Blue’: Purple and yellow flowers
Streptocarpus ‘Denim’: Blue and indigo flowers
Streptocarpus ‘Hope’: Deep red flowers
Streptocarpus ‘Polka Dot Purple’: Purple and white flowers with unique markings

With proper care, Streptocarpus will thrive and provide you with years of beautiful blooms.

Gardening

DIY Brick Lawn Edging: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Crisp and Defined Lawn

by Donna July 5, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Creating a Crisp and Defined Lawn Edge with Bricks

Edging your lawn with bricks is a great way to achieve a polished and formal look while also enhancing the health and longevity of your lawn. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a beautiful brick lawn edging:

Materials You’ll Need:

Bricks
Mortar (Bostik General Purpose Mortar Grey 5kg)
Building sand
Cement
Trowel
Rubber mallet (Gelert Rubber Mallet)
Rake

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mortar

Mix sand and cement in a ratio of 4:1. Gradually add water until you achieve a consistency similar to a thick cake batter. Avoid making the mixture too sloppy or dry.

Step 2: Lay the Bricks

Spread a layer of mortar along the edge of a small section of your lawn. Carefully place the bricks on the mortar, ensuring that their ends meet. Gently press them into the mixture using your hands.

Step 3: Settle the Bricks

Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the bricks into place. Make sure they are level and aligned with the edge of the lawn. Continue laying bricks until you’ve edged the entire lawn.

Step 4: Finish the Edging

Once all the bricks are in place, rake border soil up to the bricks. Avoid stepping on the edging for a few days to allow the mortar to set. You can mow the grass right over the brick edging once it’s fully dry.

Tips for Success:

Choose bricks that are durable and weather-resistant for long-lasting results.
Dig a shallow trench along the edge of the lawn to provide a stable base for the bricks.
Use a level to ensure that the bricks are laid evenly and follow the contour of the lawn.
Water the soil around the bricks to help the mortar set and prevent cracking.
Regularly remove weeds and debris from the brick edging to maintain its appearance.

Benefits of Brick Lawn Edging:

Enhances the curb appeal of your lawn by creating a clean and defined edge.
Prevents lawn edges from becoming overgrown and ragged.
Reduces the need for frequent mowing and trimming.
Provides a barrier against pests and weeds.
Adds an attractive and timeless accent to your outdoor space.

Conclusion:

Edging your lawn with bricks is a simple and rewarding project that can transform the look and feel of your yard. By following these step-by-step instructions and using the right materials, you can create a beautiful and functional brick lawn edging that will enhance the beauty and longevity of your lawn for years to come.

Newer Posts

Older Posts