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.

Houseplants

ZZ Plant Care Guide: How to Grow and Care for Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

by Donna July 5, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

How to Grow ZZ Plants: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are easy-to-grow houseplants with glossy, upright leaves. They’re tolerant of neglect and can survive in low light conditions.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light: Bright indirect light is best, but they can tolerate lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight.
Temperature: Keep temperatures above 60°F (15°C) year-round.

Planting and Potting

Plant in a pot with drainage holes.
Use a mix of soil-based or peat-free multi-purpose compost and grit or perlite (2:1 ratio).

Care and Maintenance

Watering: Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out before watering. Avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a houseplant food.
Repotting: Repot every two or three years.
Cleaning: Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them shiny.

Propagation

Division: Divide the plant’s tubers and plant them in separate pots.
Cuttings: Remove a section with two leaves and a stem. Allow the base to harden and then plant in a mix of compost and perlite.

Troubleshooting

Wilting or wrinkled leaves: Underwatering. Increase watering frequency.
Yellow leaves or mushy stems: Overwatering. Allow soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Collapsing stems: Check watering regime and adjust. Consider moving the plant to a brighter or warmer spot.
Brown patches on leaves: Sunburn. Move the plant to a location with less direct sunlight.
Pests: Check for scale insects or spider mites. Treat accordingly.

Buying ZZ Plants

Purchase from garden centers, house plant retailers, or online.
Choose plants with upright, glossy green leaves and no signs of pests or diseases.

Varieties of ZZ Plants

Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’: A new variety with almost black leaves.

Gardening

Carnivorous Plants: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 5, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Carnivorous Plants: A Beginner’s Guide

What are Carnivorous Plants?

Carnivorous plants are unique organisms that have adapted to trap and digest insects and other small animals to supplement their nutrient intake from the soil. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from tiny sundews to large pitcher plants.

Popular Types of Carnivorous Plants

Venus Flytrap: One of the most well-known carnivorous plants, the Venus flytrap has snapping leaves that quickly close when an insect lands on them.
Pitcher Plants (Sarracenia): These plants have pitcher-shaped leaves that are filled with digestive enzymes. Insects are attracted to the nectar on the rim of the pitcher and fall in, where they are trapped and digested.
Sundews (Drosera): Sundews have sticky leaves covered in tiny hairs that trap insects. The leaves then curl up, enveloping the prey and digesting it.

Care for Carnivorous Plants

Caring for carnivorous plants is not difficult, but it is important to provide them with the right conditions to thrive.

Light: Most carnivorous plants need bright light, but some can tolerate partial shade.
Water: Carnivorous plants should be watered with rainwater or distilled water, as tap water can contain minerals that are harmful to them. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Humidity: Many carnivorous plants prefer high humidity. This can be achieved by misting the plants regularly or placing them on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Temperature: Most carnivorous plants prefer warm temperatures, but some can tolerate cooler conditions.

Where to Buy Carnivorous Plants

Carnivorous plants can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:

Local nurseries: Some nurseries specialize in carnivorous plants and can provide expert advice on their care.
Online retailers: There are many reputable online retailers that sell carnivorous plants.
Carnivorous plant societies: These organizations often sell carnivorous plants and provide information on their cultivation.

Tips for Growing Carnivorous Plants

Do your research: Before purchasing a carnivorous plant, make sure you have the right conditions to care for it.
Choose the right plants: There are many different types of carnivorous plants, so choose one that is suitable for your climate and growing conditions.
Provide the right care: Carnivorous plants have specific needs, so make sure you provide them with the right light, water, humidity, and temperature.
Be patient: Carnivorous plants can take time to adjust to their new environment, so be patient and don’t give up if they don’t start growing immediately.

Conclusion

Carnivorous plants are fascinating and unique organisms that can make a great addition to any home. By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for these amazing plants.

Gardening

Mastering Dibber Tools: The Ultimate Guide to Seed Planting and Gardening Success

by Donna July 4, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Essential Guide to Dibber Tools for Seed Planting and Gardening

What is a Dibber and What is it Used For?

A dibber is an essential gardening tool that makes planting seeds and seedlings a breeze. It’s a long, stick-like tool with a pointed end that’s used to create holes in the soil, ensuring that seeds and seedlings are planted at the correct depth and with minimal damage. Dibbers come in various widths, with thinner ones being ideal for sowing seeds and cuttings, while thicker ones are better suited for planting small bulbs.

Choosing the Right Dibber for Your Needs

The type of dibber you choose will depend on your specific gardening needs. Consider the following factors:

Material: Dibbers can be made from wood, metal, or plastic. Wooden dibbers are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as metal or plastic dibbers. Metal dibbers are sturdy and long-lasting, but they can be more expensive. Plastic dibbers offer a good balance of durability and affordability.
Handle Style: Dibbers come with different handle styles, including straight, T-shaped, and D-shaped. Choose a handle style that feels comfortable to hold and grip.
Measurements: Some dibbers have measurements along the shaft, which can be helpful for ensuring accurate planting depth. This is especially important for seeds that need to be buried at a specific depth.

How to Use a Dibber

Using a dibber is simple and straightforward:

Prepare the Soil: Before using a dibber, make sure the soil is loose and well-prepared. Remove any rocks or debris that could hinder planting.
Make a Hole: Push the pointed end of the dibber into the soil to the desired depth. The depth will vary depending on the size of the seed or seedling.
Insert the Seed or Seedling: Carefully place the seed or seedling into the hole.
Cover the Hole: Gently press the soil around the seed or seedling to cover the hole.
Water: Water the newly planted seeds or seedlings to help them establish.

Tips and Tricks for Using a Dibber

Use the Right Size Dibber: Choose a dibber with a width that matches the size of the seeds or seedlings you’re planting.
Measure the Depth: If the dibber has measurements, use them to ensure that you’re planting the seeds or seedlings at the correct depth.
Make Multiple Holes: If you’re planting multiple seeds or seedlings in a row, make several holes at a time to save time.
Keep the Dibber Clean: Clean the dibber regularly to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Store the Dibber Properly: When not in use, store the dibber in a dry place to prevent rust or damage.

Essential Dibber Tools for Seed Planting and Gardening

With so many options available, choosing the right dibber can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best dibber tools on the market:

Burgon and Ball Stainless Dibber: This RHS-endorsed dibber is ergonomically designed and made from durable stainless steel.
Garden Gear Dibber: Crafted from pinewood, this dibber features increments along the shaft for accurate depth measurement.
Spear and Jackson Dibber: This dibber has a longer handle for comfortable use and a stainless steel tip for rust resistance.
National Trust Dibber: Made from FSC-approved ash with a high-carbon steel tip, this dibber is both durable and eco-friendly.
Darlac Bamboo Dibber: With its offset handle and rust-resistant stainless steel head, this bamboo dibber is comfortable and long-lasting.
Draper Garden Dibber: The ‘L’ shaped handle of this dibber provides improved grip and comfort, while the stainless steel head resists rust.
Wooden Garden Dibber: This handmade dibber is customizable and comes with a leather thong for easy storage.
DeWit Brass Tipped Dibber: This solid ash dibber features a brass tip for added durability and inch markings for precise planting depth.

Conclusion

Dibber tools are essential for any gardener looking to plant seeds and seedlings with ease and precision. By choosing the right dibber and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your plants have the best chance of thriving and producing a bountiful harvest.

Gardening

January Pruning Guide: Get Your Garden Ready for Spring

by Donna July 4, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

January Pruning Guide: Get Your Garden Ready for Spring

Introduction

Winter is a great time to prune your plants and get them ready for the growing season. Pruning removes dead or overgrown branches, encourages new growth, and helps plants produce more flowers and fruit.

Plants to Prune in January

Evergreens: Box, yew, and holly
Fruit trees: Apples, crab apples, and pears
Late-flowering clematis
Grapevines

Avoid Pruning

Magnolias
Cherries and plums
Phygelius and penstemons
Early-flowering clematis

Step-by-Step: Pruning Dogwoods for Stem Color

Dogwoods are known for their vibrant stems, which look especially beautiful in winter when the leaves have fallen. Here’s how to prune dogwoods:

Plan your pruning: Decide how tall you want the shrub to be.
Make clean cuts: Use sharp loppers or secateurs to remove branches.
Remove whippy shoots: Cut off any thin, weak stems.

Also Prune This Way

You can use the same hard-pruning technique on other plants, such as:

Willow
Hazel
Elder
Buddleia

Choose a Pruning Height

The pruning height depends on the location of the dogwood:

Back of the border: Prune less drastically to avoid hiding new growth.
Mid-border or front of the border: Prune down to about 15 cm from the ground.

By following these tips, you can give your plants a head start in the spring and enjoy a beautiful, thriving garden all year long!

Gardening

Winter Seed Sowing: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Plants Indoors

by Donna July 4, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Winter Seed Sowing: A Guide to Growing Plants Indoors

Introduction

When the cold weather hits, it’s tempting to stay indoors and dream about next season’s garden. But did you know that there are many plants that you can start growing from seed right now, in the middle of winter? It’s true! With a little planning and care, you can get a jump on the growing season and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce and flowers all year round.

Sowing Onions from Seed

Onions are a great choice for winter seed sowing. They’re easy to grow and can be started indoors in trays or pots. Sow the seeds in early January in a warm place, and keep the seedlings under cover until April, when you can transplant them outside.

How to Grow Onions from Seed

Fill a seed tray or pot with a good quality seed starting mix.
Sow the onion seeds thinly on the surface of the mix.
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite or perlite.
Water the seeds gently.
Place the seed tray or pot in a warm, sunny location.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or cells.
Harden off the seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors in April.

Growing Chilies

Chilies are another great option for winter seed sowing. They’re a bit more challenging to grow than onions, but they’re definitely worth the effort. With a little care and attention, you can grow delicious, hot peppers right in your own home.

How to Grow Chilies

Sow the chili seeds in February into a heated propagator.
Keep the propagator at a temperature of around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or cells.
Grow the chili plants in a sunny location, and keep them well-watered.
Fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
When the chili plants are about 6 inches tall, you can pinch out the tips of the plants to encourage them to bush out.
Harvest the chili peppers when they are fully ripe.

Forcing Paperwhite Daffodils to Bloom in Winter

Paperwhite daffodils are a beautiful and easy-to-grow flower that can brighten up your home in the depths of winter. By forcing the bulbs to bloom early, you can enjoy their delicate white petals and sweet fragrance all season long.

How to Force Paperwhite Daffodils to Bloom in Winter

Pot up some paperwhite daffodil bulbs in gritty compost in November or December.
Keep the pots in a cool, dark place until shoots appear.
Once shoots appear, bring the pots into a warm, sunny location.
Water the plants regularly, and keep them in a bright location.
In three or four weeks, your paperwhite daffodils will be in full bloom.

Growing Pelargoniums from Seed

Pelargoniums, also known as geraniums, are popular bedding plants that can add a splash of color to your garden all summer long. They’re easy to grow from seed, and you can start them indoors in January or February.

How to Grow Pelargoniums from Seed

Sow the pelargonium seeds in a seed tray or pot filled with a good quality seed starting mix.
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite or perlite.
Water the seeds gently.
Place the seed tray or pot in a warm, sunny location.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or cells.
Harden off the seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors in May or June.

Conclusion

Winter seed sowing is a great way to get a jump on the growing season and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce and flowers all year round. With a little planning and care, you can easily grow onions, chilies, paperwhite daffodils, and pelargoniums from seed indoors. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!

Gardening

10 Best Shade-Loving Plants for a Thriving Summer Garden

by Donna July 4, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Shade-Loving Plants for Summer

What to Look For

When choosing shade-loving plants for summer, look for varieties with bright flowers or striking foliage. These plants will be more visible in the shade compared to darker blooms.

Top 10 Shade-Loving Plants for Summer

Here are 10 of the best shade-loving plants for summer:

Astrantias: These come in a range of colors, from white to deep purple-red, and enjoy moist soils in partial shade.
Japanese Painted Fern: This fern unfurls each year to reveal intricate fronds. It prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Campanulas: Also known as bellflowers, most campanulas are well-suited to partially shaded positions.
Angelica: This biennial produces large flowerheads that attract pollinators. It prefers damp soil.
Foxgloves: These are quintessential shade plants with tall stems that make them ideal for the back of a border.
Himalayan Maidenhair Fern: With delicate, feathery foliage, this fern prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Rodgersia: This plant has large, architectural foliage and white flowers. It’s a great choice for bog gardens.
Clematis x durandii: This climber is ideal for growing in partial shade. Remember to plant deeply and mulch generously.
Hardy Geraniums: There are many hardy geraniums that can grow in shade, including varieties with lighter-colored flowers.
Siberian Irises: These plants form large clumps and produce striking blue flowers in early summer. They prefer moisture-retentive soil in partial shade.

Tips for Growing Shade-Loving Plants

Know which areas of your garden are in shade before planting.
Choose plants that are suited to the amount of shade in your garden.
Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving shade garden all summer long.

Gardening Basics

Soil and Composting: The Foundation for a Thriving Garden

by Donna July 3, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Soil and Composting

Introduction

Soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. It determines what plants you can grow and how well they will thrive.

Soil Types

There are six main types of soil:

Clay soil: Heavy and sticky, holds water well
Silty soil: Smooth and powdery, drains well
Loamy soil: A mix of clay, silt, and sand, ideal for most plants
Peat soil: Organic and acidic, found in bogs and wetlands
Sandy soil: Loose and well-draining, dries out quickly
Loamy soil: A mix of clay, silt, and sand, ideal for most plants

Soil pH

Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline your soil is. Most plants prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Choosing Plants for Your Soil Type

Different plants thrive in different soil types. For example:

Clay soil: Roses, daylilies
Sandy soil: Cacti, succulents
Moist soil: Hostas, ferns

Composting

Compost is a natural fertilizer made from decomposed organic matter. It improves soil structure, adds nutrients, and helps retain moisture.

How to Make Compost

Collect organic materials such as leaves, grass clippings, and vegetable scraps.
Layer them in a compost bin or pile.
Turn the pile regularly to aerate it.
After a few months, your compost will be ready to use.

Benefits of Composting

Improves soil health
Reduces waste
Saves money on fertilizers

Conclusion

Understanding soil and composting is essential for a thriving garden. By choosing the right plants for your soil type and adding compost regularly, you can create a healthy and productive garden.

Gardening

Winter Wildlife Gardens: How to Create a Haven for Wildlife in Winter

by Donna July 3, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Wildlife-Friendly Winter Gardens

Introduction

Winter can be a tough time for wildlife. Many animals are hibernating, and food is scarce. But there are some plants that can provide food and shelter for wildlife during the winter months.

Best Winter Plants for Wildlife

Here are some of the best plants to grow in your garden to attract wildlife in winter:

Rose hips: These nutritious fruits are loved by birds and small mammals.
Leaf litter: Leaves provide hibernacula for amphibians and hedgehogs.
Ivy berries: These berries are an important source of food for birds and small mammals.
Winter clematis: This plant flowers from November to February, providing food for bees and other insects.
Winter honeysuckle: Another great winter flower for bees.
Mahonia: This plant produces blue berries that are loved by birds.
Daphne: This plant has fragrant flowers that bloom in winter.
Winter heather: This plant provides nectar for bees and other insects.

How to Make Your Garden Wildlife-Friendly in Winter

In addition to planting wildlife-friendly plants, there are other things you can do to make your garden more welcoming to wildlife in winter:

Avoid cutting back berrying plants, as the berries provide food for birds and small mammals.
Leave plant material where it falls, as it provides shelter for hibernating insects and other animals.
Avoid disturbing your compost heap, as it may be home to overwintering wildlife.
Leave as much of your garden as possible intact over winter to ensure wildlife can hibernate safely.

By following these tips, you can create a winter garden that is both beautiful and beneficial to wildlife.

Gardening

Growing and Caring for Muehlenbeckia: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 2, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing and Caring for Muehlenbeckia: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Muehlenbeckia is a versatile plant that can add beauty and interest to your garden or home. It’s a deciduous shrub with small, dark green leaves and can be grown as a climber or ground cover. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for muehlenbeckia, from choosing the right location to propagating new plants.

Types of Muehlenbeckia

There are several different varieties of muehlenbeckia, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

Muehlenbeckia complexa, also known as the necklace vine, is a vigorous climber that can reach heights of 4 meters. It has small, heart-shaped leaves and produces greenish white flowers in summer.
Muehlenbeckia complexa ‘Maori’ is a compact variety of necklace vine that’s well-suited for growing in containers.
Muehlenbeckia astonii is an erect shrub with wiry branches and small, heart-shaped leaves. It’s particularly tolerant of dry and exposed conditions.

Growing Conditions

Muehlenbeckia prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. It’s important to protect it from cold winds, especially if you’re growing it as a climber. Muehlenbeckia is fast growing and can become invasive, so you may need to prune it regularly to maintain the desired size.

Planting

Muehlenbeckia can be purchased as a pot plant and either grown in a sheltered spot in your garden or in a container. When planting, be sure to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight or light shade. If you’re growing muehlenbeckia as a climber, provide it with a trellis or other support structure.

Care

Muehlenbeckia is relatively easy to care for. It requires regular watering, especially during hot weather. Fertilize it monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Muehlenbeckia is frost hardy, but it may need some additional protection in winter, especially in colder climates.

Propagation

Muehlenbeckia can be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer to early autumn. To take a cutting, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to remove a 4- to 6-inch stem from a healthy plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom inch or two of the stem and then dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting mix and keep it in a warm, sunny location. The cutting should root within 4 to 6 weeks.

Pruning

Muehlenbeckia does not require regular pruning, but you may need to prune it occasionally to control its size or shape. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering.

Pests and Diseases

Muehlenbeckia is not prone to any serious pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. If you notice any pests on your plant, treat them with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Conclusion

Muehlenbeckia is a beautiful and versatile plant that’s easy to grow and care for. With its small, dark green leaves and delicate flowers, it’s a great addition to any garden or home.

Flower Gardening

Growing Trilliums: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Troubleshooting

by Donna July 2, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing Trilliums: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Trilliums are beautiful wildflowers that are native to North America. They are known for their large, showy flowers and their ability to thrive in shady areas. If you’re looking to add some color and interest to your garden, trilliums are a great option.

Types of Trilliums

There are many different types of trilliums, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Trillium grandiflorum: This is the most common type of trillium and the easiest to grow. It has large, pure white flowers and shiny, ribbed leaves.
Trillium erectum: Also known as red trillium or purple trillium, this species has nodding, three-petalled blooms in various shades of red to purple.
Trillium chloropetalum: Known as giant trillium or giant wake robin, it has marbled green leaves and large burgundy flowers.

How to Grow Trilliums

Trilliums are relatively easy to grow, but they do have some specific requirements.

Soil: Trilliums prefer moist, well-drained soil that is neutral to acidic.
Light: Trilliums grow best in partial to full shade.
Planting: Trilliums can be planted from dry bulbs (corms) in late summer or from young plants in spring.
Watering: Water trilliums regularly, especially during dry weather.
Fertilizing: Trilliums do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a light application of compost or manure in the spring.

How to Care for Trilliums

Once your trilliums are planted, they require very little care.

Pruning: Prune out any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage throughout the growing season.
Mulching: Apply a mulch of leaf mould or homemade compost around your trilliums in the spring. This will help to keep the soil moist and cool.

Problems and Solutions

Trilliums are generally problem-free plants, but they can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases.

Slugs and snails: These pests can damage trillium leaves. To control them, use a slug and snail bait.
Squirrels: Squirrels may dig up newly planted trillium corms. To deter them, sprinkle cayenne pepper around your plants.

Conclusion

Trilliums are beautiful and easy-to-grow wildflowers that are a great addition to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy these lovely flowers for years to come.

Newer Posts

Older Posts