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Donna

Donna, contributing author to Gardening Tips and Tools

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

April Blooms: Vibrant Plants to Brighten Your Spring Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Plants That Bloom Brightly in April: A Guide for Spring Gardens

Introduction

As the days get longer and the air warmer, spring bursts forth in April, bringing with it a vibrant array of blooming plants. From delicate bulbs to showy shrubs, there are countless options to add color and life to your garden in this delightful season.

Top Plants for April Gardens

When selecting plants for your April garden, consider the following recommendations:

  • Amelanchier lamarckii: This small tree boasts clusters of white flowers that resemble cherry blossoms.
  • Convallaria majalis ‘Fernwood Golden Slippers’: Lily of the valley with unique golden-edged leaves.
  • Erysimum cheiri ‘Sunset Purple’: Wallflowers with fragrant, purple flowers.
  • Lamprocapnos spectabilis: Bleeding heart with heart-shaped pink flowers.
  • Magnolia stellata: Star magnolia with fragrant, star-shaped white flowers.
  • Primula beesiana: Candelabra primrose with clusters of yellow flowers.
  • Prunus pendula ‘Pendula Rubra’: Weeping cherry tree with cascading branches and pink flowers.
  • Ribes x beatonii: Flowering currant with clusters of red or white flowers.
  • Tulipa ‘New Design’: Tulip with deep purple and white petals.

April Planting Inspiration

To create a stunning April garden, consider these planting combinations:

  • Five Plant Combinations for April: Combine tulips, cotinus, and euphorbia for a striking contrast of colors and textures.
  • Five Stunning Tulip Combinations: Experiment with different tulip varieties to create eye-catching displays of purple, pink, and orange.
  • Shrubs That Look Good in April: Add depth and structure to your garden with flowering shrubs like Ribes x beatonii.
  • Five Spring Perennials for April: Plant perennials like bleeding heart and candelabra primrose for long-lasting blooms.
  • Spring Pots for Shady Spots: Create pockets of color even in shaded areas with plants like ferns and hostas.
  • Five Scented Plants for April: Fill your garden with sweet fragrances from plants like daphne and hyacinth.

Tips for April Garden Care

To ensure your April garden thrives, follow these tips:

  • Protect from Frost: While spring has arrived, there’s still a risk of frost. Be cautious when moving tender plants outdoors.
  • Deadhead Spent Blooms: Remove faded flowers to encourage new growth and prevent seed production.
  • Fertilize Regularly: Feed your plants a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and blooming.
  • Water Wisely: Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Control Pests and Diseases: Monitor your plants for pests and diseases, and treat promptly to prevent damage.

Conclusion

April is a time of vibrant beauty in the garden, with a wide variety of plants bursting into bloom. By selecting the right plants and following proper care practices, you can create a stunning and colorful outdoor space to enjoy all month long. Embrace the spirit of spring and transform your garden into a blooming paradise with these April-blooming delights.

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Growing Vegetables

How to Grow Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Donna
written by Donna 4 minutes read

How to Grow Potatoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Potatoes are one of the most popular and versatile vegetables in the world. They are easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to grow your own potatoes, from choosing the right variety to harvesting and storing your crop.

Choosing the Right Potato Variety

There are many different varieties of potatoes available, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and growing requirements. When choosing a variety, consider the following factors:

  • When you want to harvest: Early potatoes are ready to harvest in June and July, while maincrop potatoes are ready in August and October.
  • How you want to use them: Some potatoes are best for boiling, while others are better for baking or roasting.
  • Your climate: Some varieties are more resistant to pests and diseases than others.

Preparing the Soil

Potatoes grow best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Before planting, dig the soil to a depth of 12 inches and remove any weeds or debris. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility.

Planting Potatoes

  • Seed potatoes: Potatoes are grown from seed potatoes, which are small tubers that have been specially treated to prevent disease.
  • Planting time: Early potatoes can be planted in March or April, while maincrop potatoes should be planted in April or May.
  • Spacing: Plant seed potatoes 12 inches apart and 3 inches deep.
  • Orientation: Plant the seed potatoes with the eyes (small indentations) facing upwards.

Caring for Potatoes

  • Watering: Potatoes need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants at the base, avoiding the leaves.
  • Fertilizing: Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Hilling: As the plants grow, hill up the soil around the base of the stems to prevent the tubers from turning green.
  • Pest and disease control: Potatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including potato blight, aphids, and Colorado potato beetles. Monitor your plants regularly and take steps to control any problems.

Harvesting Potatoes

  • Early potatoes: Early potatoes are ready to harvest when the plants are still flowering and the tubers are about the size of a golf ball.
  • Maincrop potatoes: Maincrop potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves have turned yellow and died back.
  • Harvesting method: Gently dig up the potatoes using a fork or spade. Avoid damaging the tubers.

Storing Potatoes

  • Curing: After harvesting, potatoes should be cured in a cool, dark place for two to three weeks. This will help them to develop a thicker skin and improve their storage life.
  • Storage: Store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. Ideal storage temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Growing Potatoes

  • Use certified seed potatoes: Certified seed potatoes are free from disease and will produce a better crop.
  • Chit the potatoes before planting: Chitting is the process of sprouting the potatoes before planting. This will give them a head start and increase the yield.
  • Plant potatoes in a sunny location: Potatoes need at least six hours of sunlight per day.
  • Keep the soil moist but not soggy: Potatoes need regular watering, but avoid overwatering.
  • Harvest the potatoes when they are mature: Harvesting potatoes too early will result in a lower yield and poorer quality tubers.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

  • Potato blight: Potato blight is a fungal disease that can devastate potato crops. Prevent potato blight by using resistant varieties and avoiding planting potatoes in the same location year after year.
  • Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from potato plants. Control aphids by spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Colorado potato beetles: Colorado potato beetles are large, brightly colored beetles that can eat the leaves of potato plants. Control Colorado potato beetles by handpicking them or using an insecticidal spray.
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Backyard Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Using Wool Pellets for a Thriving Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 7 minutes read

The Benefits of Wool Pellets

Superior Water Retention

Wool pellets are amazing for holding water. They can hold up to 200% of their weight in water. This helps plants stay hydrated, especially during dry times, so you don’t have to water them all the time.

Temperature Regulation and Insulation

Wool pellets act like a natural insulator. They help keep the soil temperature stable, protecting plants from extreme weather. This creates a better growing environment for your plants.

Weed Suppression

Weeds can be a big problem for gardeners. Wool pellets help by creating a thick barrier that blocks sunlight. This stops weed seeds from germinating, which means less weeding for you.

Slow Release of Nutrients

As wool pellets break down, they slowly release important nutrients back into the soil. These nutrients include nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. This not only enriches the soil but also helps keep weeds down.

Eco-Friendly and Safe

Wool pellets are natural and free from chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. This makes them safe for kids, pets, and wildlife. Using wool pellets helps create a healthier garden ecosystem.

Sustainable and Renewable

Wool pellets are made from wool that’s not good enough for making clothes. By using this “waste” wool, we reduce waste and promote sustainability. Wool is a renewable and biodegradable material, making it a great eco-friendly choice.

Unique Features

One cool thing about wool pellets is that they repel slugs and snails. The natural oil in wool, called lanolin, has a bitter taste and bad smell that keeps these pests away. This means you don’t have to use harmful pesticides.

How to Apply Wool Pellets in Your Garden for Optimal Growth

Wool pellets can be a great addition to your garden. They help with water retention, weed suppression, and act as a natural fertilizer. Here’s how to use them in different parts of your garden.

Applying Wool Pellets in the Garden

When planting seeds directly in your garden:

  1. Prepare the Furrow: Space out your seeds in the furrow as recommended for the plant.
  2. Add Wool Pellets: Sprinkle wool pellets into the furrow alongside the seeds. Wool pellets are safe for seeds because they have low salt content.
  3. Cover Up: Cover the seeds and wool pellets with soil. The wool pellets will help retain moisture and provide nutrients as they break down.

Mixing Wool Pellets into Soil for Pots or Containers

For new planting mixes:

  1. Preparation: Determine the amount of soil needed for your pot or container. Mix half a cup of wool pellets with a gallon of soil.
  2. Mixing: Mix the wool pellets evenly throughout the soil. This ensures the benefits of wool pellets, like better water distribution and soil porosity, are spread evenly.
  3. Pot Filling: Use the mixed soil to fill your pots or containers. The wool pellets will help improve soil structure and moisture management.

Adding Wool Pellets to Existing Potted Plants

For plants that are already potted:

  1. Top Dressing: Add wool pellets to the top of the soil around the plant.
  2. Incorporate Gently: Work the pellets into the soil carefully to avoid damaging the plant’s roots. This helps the wool pellets integrate into the soil where they can provide the most benefit.
  3. Water Distribution and Nutrient Release: By mixing the wool pellets into the soil, they help retain moisture and release nutrients to the plant’s roots, promoting healthy growth.

Longevity and Effectiveness

  1. Biodegradation: When mixed into the soil, wool pellets break down in about two to three months, enriching the soil and improving its structure.
  2. Surface Application for Pest Deterrence: If used as a top layer, wool pellets can repel slugs and snails for up to 12 to 14 months due to the lanolin in the wool.

By following these guidelines, you can make the most out of wool pellets. They offer many benefits, including water retention, fertilization, and pest control. Whether you’re planting new seeds, preparing potting mixes, or improving soil in existing pots, wool pellets provide a sustainable and effective solution.

Wool Pellets – A New Way to Feed Plants

As an avid gardener and conservationist, I’m always looking for new ways to help my plants thrive while being eco-friendly. I discovered wool pellets from Wild Valley Farms, which can be used as soil amendments and plant food. The results have been fantastic so far.

Wool pellets are made from low-quality wool that’s not used for textiles. This wool can hold up to 20 times its weight in water, making it excellent for moisture retention. Wool also contains important nutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and sulfur, all in a slow-release form. With a fertilizer ratio of 9-1-2, wool pellets are perfect for plants that need a lot of nitrogen.

Using wool pellets helps plants grow better by keeping the soil moist and adding nutrients. They also expand with water, increasing soil porosity and wicking away excess moisture from plant roots, preventing overwatering. This means you can water your plants well and not worry about soggy roots. Wool pellets can reduce watering frequency by 25%, which is great for areas with droughts or high water costs.

Tests with tomatoes showed that a mixture of peat and wool pellets resulted in visibly larger and healthier plants. One 8-ounce bag of wool pellets can be used over 15 square feet or to amend 6 gallons of soil. The nutrients release gradually, lasting up to a year.

Wool pellets are organic, renewable, and sustainable. They also repel slugs and snails in a non-toxic way that’s safe for pets and children. The lanolin in the wool irritates these pests, keeping them away for 6 to 8 months.

With all these benefits, using wool pellets in your garden is a smart and sustainable choice. They make gardening easier and help your plants grow better while being eco-friendly.

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Gardening

May Seed Sowing: A Comprehensive Guide to Starting Your Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

May Seed Sowing: A Guide to Starting Your Garden

Spring is in full swing, and it’s time to start thinking about sowing seeds for your summer and fall harvest. May is a great month to sow a variety of vegetables and flowers, including kale, leeks, winter greens, sunflowers, larkspur, sweetcorn, and borage.

Vegetables to Sow in May

Kale, Leeks, and Winter Greens:

These hardy vegetables can be sown in May and will reach just the right size for harvesting next winter. Kale is a leafy green that is packed with nutrients, while leeks are a milder-flavored onion that can be used in a variety of dishes. Winter greens, such as collard greens and spinach, are also great choices for fall and winter harvests.

Sunflowers:

Sunflowers are a classic summer flower that is easy to grow from seed. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, from towering giants to smaller, multiheaded varieties. Sunflowers are also a great source of pollen for bees and other pollinators.

Sweetcorn:

Sweetcorn is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed fresh, canned, or frozen. It’s important to plant sweetcorn in blocks to ensure good pollination.

Borage:

Borage is a beautiful and beneficial flower that attracts pollinators and adds a touch of cucumber flavor to salads, drinks, and desserts. It’s also a great source of antioxidants.

Flowers to Sow in May

Larkspur:

Larkspur is a delicate and graceful flower that comes in a variety of colors. It’s a great choice for cutting gardens and bouquets.

Tips for May Seed Sowing

  • Choose the right varieties: Not all vegetables and flowers are suited to May seed sowing. Do your research to choose varieties that will thrive in your climate and growing conditions.
  • Prepare your soil: Before you sow seeds, make sure your soil is well-drained and has plenty of organic matter. This will help your seeds germinate and grow strong.
  • Sow seeds at the right depth: The depth at which you sow seeds will vary depending on the type of seed. Be sure to follow the instructions on the seed packet.
  • Water regularly: Keep your seeds moist, but not soggy. Water them gently and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
  • Thin seedlings: Once your seedlings have emerged, you’ll need to thin them out to give them room to grow. Remove the weaker seedlings, leaving the strongest ones behind.
  • Be patient: It takes time for seeds to germinate and grow into strong plants. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep watering and caring for your plants, and they will eventually reward you with a bountiful harvest.

May Seed Sowing Inspiration

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for plants to sow in May:

  • Vegetables: Kale, leeks, winter greens, sweetcorn, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkins
  • Flowers: Sunflowers, larkspur, zinnias, marigolds, cosmos, poppies, daisies

With a little planning and care, you can have a beautiful and productive garden all summer long. So get out there and start sowing those seeds!

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Gardening Tips

7 Common Pruning Mistakes to Avoid for Healthy Plants

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Pruning: A Beginner’s Guide to Avoiding Common Mistakes

Pruning is an important gardening task that can help your plants grow healthy and strong. But if you don’t do it correctly, you can actually harm your plants. Here are seven common pruning mistakes to avoid:

Pruning at the Wrong Time of Year

Most plants should be pruned in winter when they are dormant. But there are some exceptions. For example, cherry and plum trees should be pruned in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf disease. Flowering shrubs should be pruned after they have finished blooming.

Pruning Too Much

When you prune, you are removing stems and leaves, which are two important sources of food for the plant. Removing too much material at once can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.

Not Pruning Above a Node

The node is where leaves, buds, and shoots emerge from the stem. You should always cut just above a node to prevent dieback and disease.

Not Cleaning Secateurs

Dirty and blunt pruning tools can spread disease between plants. Make sure to clean and disinfect your tools after each use.

Not Pruning at an Angle

When pruning branches, it’s important to cut at a downward angle so that water can run off the wound and prevent fungal infections.

Not Pruning Out Canker

Canker is a bacterial infection that can kill trees. If you see signs of canker, prune out the infected wood immediately.

Not Removing Die-Back

Die-back is the death of plant tissue, which can be caused by a variety of factors. If you see die-back, prune out the dead tissue to prevent disease from spreading.

By following these tips, you can avoid common pruning mistakes and keep your plants healthy and beautiful.

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Gardening Techniques

Elevate Your Garden: The Ultimate Guide to Plant Supports and Garden Obelisks

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Best Plant Supports and Garden Obelisks for Your Garden

Introduction

Do you want to add height, structure, and style to your garden? Garden obelisks and plant supports are the perfect solution for supporting climbing plants and herbaceous perennials.

Benefits of Plant Supports

  • Support climbing plants, allowing them to grow upwards without relying on walls or fences.
  • Add vertical elements to your garden, creating a more interesting and dynamic space.
  • Prevent herbaceous perennials from flopping over paths, lawns, or other plants.

Types of Plant Supports

  • Obelisks: Ideal for climbing plants, providing a sturdy structure for them to grow on.
  • Grow-through rings: Support herbaceous plants by providing support to their stems.
  • Plant support netting: Made from biodegradable materials, it can support both productive and ornamental plants.
  • Circular plant supports: Decorative and functional, they come in various heights and diameters to suit different plants.
  • Arc plant supports: Similar to circular supports, they can also be used to define borders and pathways.

Recommended Products

  • Garden Mile 2x Large 2M Black Metal Garden Obelisk: Modern and affordable, perfect for supporting climbing plants.
  • Garden Pride 3x Round Grow Through Plant Support: Supports herbaceous plants, giving them shape and support.
  • Tech-Garden 2x5m Plant Support Netting: Biodegradable and easy to escape from for animals.
  • Harrod Short Circular Plant Support – Rust: Durable and stylish, with a range of sizes to choose from.

Plants for Garden Obelisks

  • Climbing roses
  • Clematis
  • Sweet peas
  • Honeysuckle

Securing Your Obelisk

  1. Choose a secure location.
  2. Concrete anchoring: Dig a hole and fill it with concrete, then place the obelisk’s base in it.
  3. Metal anchoring: Screw metal ground anchors into the ground at the base of the obelisk.
  4. Lattice or trellis: Attach lattice or trellis to the sides of the obelisk for additional support.
  5. Guy wires: For tall structures or windy conditions, attach guy wires to the anchor points of the obelisk.
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Gardening

Growing and Caring for Snow in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing and Caring for Snow in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Snow in summer, also known as Cerastium tomentosum, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow ground cover plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to grow and care for snow in summer successfully.

Characteristics of Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is an herbaceous perennial that forms a dense mat of silvery-grey foliage. In late spring and early summer, it produces a mass of white flowers that resemble snow, hence its common name. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-draining soil and full sun.

Growing Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is best grown as a ground cover plant in gravel or rock gardens, or in gaps within stone walls. It is easy to grow and can spread quickly, so it may require some management to prevent it from becoming invasive.

  • Where to Plant: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
  • Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water well.
  • Spacing: Plant snow in summer about 12 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  • Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilizing: Fertilize snow in summer lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Caring for Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care.

  • Pruning: Remove flower stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding and control the spread of the plant. You can also trim back any unruly growth as needed.
  • Dividing: Divide snow in summer immediately after flowering to propagate new plants. Simply dig up the plant, divide it into sections using a spade, and replant each section in a new location.
  • Pests and Diseases: Snow in summer is generally pest- and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal issues or root rot if grown in damp conditions.

Propagating Snow in Summer

Snow in summer can be propagated by division, seed, or runners.

  • Division: Divide snow in summer immediately after flowering.
  • Seed: Sow snow in summer seeds directly into the ground in the spring. Seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
  • Runners: Snow in summer spreads by producing runners. You can lift these runners and plant them in another part of your garden.

Buying Snow in Summer

You can purchase snow in summer plants from your local garden center or nursery, or online. Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.

Conclusion

Snow in summer is a beautiful and versatile ground cover plant that is easy to grow and care for. With its silvery-grey foliage and delicate white flowers, it adds a touch of elegance to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy the beauty of snow in summer for years to come.

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Gardening

15 Thriving Kitchen Plants for Warm, Humid Environments

by Donna
written by Donna 6 minutes read

15 Kitchen Plants That Will Thrive in Your Warm, Humid Oasis

Introduction

Kitchens are often the perfect environment for growing plants, thanks to the warm, humid air that is created by cooking and other activities. This makes them an ideal spot for plants that need a little extra moisture and warmth to thrive. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 15 of the best plants for your kitchen, along with tips on how to care for them.

Best Kitchen Plants for Warm, Humid Environments

1. Moth Orchid

Moth orchids are beautiful flowering plants that will thrive in the humidity of a bright kitchen. Keep them out of direct sunlight, on a north- or east-facing windowsill or counter top. Moth orchids don’t do well in temperatures below 15ºC, so don’t buy for a kitchen where the temperatures drop too low in winter.

2. African Violets

African violets are compact house plants that can flower all year round if they have the right growing conditions. The flowers can be pink, red, white, mauve or violet and appear above furry leaves. African violets thrive in warm, humid rooms, in bright indirect light, although they will be ok on a south-facing windowsill through winter. Avoid temperatures below 16ºC.

3. Peace Lily

Peace lilies are ideal for beginners as they’re low maintenance and easy to look after. They can cope with light shade but will flower more frequently in a bright spot. They do best in a warm, humid room, so a cosy kitchen is perfect for them. Bear in mind that peace lilies are toxic, especially if you have children and/or pets.

4. Begonia Rex

Add dramatic foliage to your kitchen with a Begonia Rex. This exotic plant is popular for its colourful leaves and will thrive in a humid room. There are plenty of colours and types to choose from, including ‘Fireworks’, which has an AGM from the RHS. It won’t cope in rooms where the temperature drops below 16ºC and needs light shade rather than direct sun.

5. Boston Fern

Brighten up a shady spot in your kitchen with a Boston fern, which has light green, arching fronds. It’s adaptable and will cope both with light shade or bright indirect light as long as the air is humid. If your kitchen is low in humidity, mist your plant regularly.

6. Maidenhair Fern

This graceful looking plant has delicate, light leaves. It needs to have moist soil, although don’t water until the top inch of compost has dried out. If your kitchen is not humid, mist regularly. Place in a bright spot away from draughts and direct sun.

7. Corn Plant

Corn plant is a low maintenance choice that’s ideal for beginners as it doesn’t need frequent watering. These plants have stripy foliage and, although they start small, eventually they will produce a tree like stem that reach 2m tall with the leaves at the top. This makes it a good pick for a corner in a large kitchen.

8. Golden Pothos

Also known as Devil’s ivy, pothos is a versatile plant that can grow in many light levels but will appreciate the moist air of a kitchen. It needs only light watering (once the top couple of inches of compost have dried out) and with its trailing stems that can reach 2m long, it will look striking on a high shelf.

9. Chilli

Chilli plants thrive on a sunny kitchen windowsill. Sow seeds in February or buy a small plant in early summer. Not only will you have a colourful plant for the kitchen but you can harvest fresh chillies to cook with, from July to October.

10. Herbs

There’s a good variety of herbs you can grow on a sunny windowsill that will save you money on supermarket packets. Basil and coriander need a warm spot. Don’t overwater basil, especially in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Other herbs you could try indoors for easy pickings include mint and chives.

11. Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera adansonii is the miniature Swiss cheese plant and its main attraction is its leaves with a variety different sized holes in them. The stems are vine-like and can either be trained up a support or left to trail over the side of the pot. Monstera adansonii is native to South American rainforests so will therefore thrive in a warm, humid kitchen.

12. Chinese Money Plant

If your kitchen is not particularly humid and on the cooler side, there are still plenty of plants that will grow well. The Chinese money plant is easy to care for – it doesn’t need humidity and isn’t too fussy about watering. Place it in a bright spot where you can enjoy its round, flat leaves.

13. Spider Plant

Spider plant is one of the easiest plants to look after, as it doesn’t mind neglect and when happy will produce enough babies to start a new generation. Grow in a bright spot out of direct sunlight.

14. Nerve Plant

If you need a plant for a tight space or small windowsill, nerve plant could be the one for you. It needs a humid room so thrives in kitchens and bathrooms and its patterned and often colourful foliage will bring colour and interest to your home.

15. Drosera Capensis

The cape sundew plant is a carnivorous plant that will trap insects, including fruit flies, with its sticky tentacles. It’s easy to care for compared to the carnivorous venus fly trap, but needs a south facing windowsill. Keep the compost moist.

Tips for Growing Plants in the Kitchen

  • Choose plants that are well-suited to the humidity and light levels in your kitchen.
  • Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
  • Fertilize your plants monthly during the growing season.
  • Repot your plants as needed.
  • Keep your plants clean of pests and diseases.

By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants in your kitchen for years to come.

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Winter Gardening

Winter Plants: Add Color and Interest to Your Garden All Season Long

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Winter Plants to Brighten Your Garden

Winter doesn’t have to be a drab time in your garden. With the right plants, you can add a splash of color and interest to your outdoor space even during the coldest months.

Plants that Bloom in Winter

  • Snowdrops: These delicate white flowers are one of the first signs of spring, but they actually bloom in late winter. They’re perfect for adding a touch of cheer to shady spots.
  • Winter jasmine: This vine produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from January to March. It’s a great choice for adding a touch of color to walls or fences.
  • Winter aconite: These cheerful yellow flowers bloom in late winter or early spring. They’re perfect for naturalizing in lawns or under trees.

Plants with Colorful Foliage

  • Dogwoods: Some varieties of dogwoods have brightly colored stems that add interest to winter gardens. ‘Midwinter Fire’ is a particularly striking variety with amber and pink stems.
  • Ornamental quince: This shrub produces white, pink, or red flowers in winter. It’s a great choice for adding a touch of color to walls or fences.

Plants with Attractive Seedheads or Berries

  • Heathers: Heathers bloom in a variety of colors from January to May. They’re also attractive to bees and other pollinators.
  • Pyracanthas: These shrubs produce clusters of bright orange or red berries in winter. They’re a great source of food for birds.
  • Hollies: Hollies are evergreen shrubs or trees with glossy green leaves and bright red berries. They’re a popular choice for Christmas decorations.

Plants for Winter Containers

If you don’t have a lot of space in your garden, you can still enjoy winter plants by growing them in containers. Some good choices for winter containers include:

  • Pansies: These cheerful flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom all winter long.
  • Violets: Violets are another good choice for winter containers. They produce delicate purple flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring.
  • Wintergreen: Wintergreen is a low-growing evergreen plant with bright red berries. It’s a great choice for adding a touch of color to winter containers.

Winter Gardening Tips

To keep your winter plants looking their best, follow these tips:

  • Water your plants regularly. Even though it’s winter, your plants still need water. Water them deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Protect your plants from the cold. Mulch around your plants to help insulate their roots. You can also cover them with a blanket or tarp on cold nights.
  • Prune your plants in early spring. Pruning will help your plants produce new growth and flowers in the spring.

With a little care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful winter plants in your garden all season long.

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Gardening

Wildlife Gardening 101: How to Attract Wildlife to Your Garden and Support Biodiversity

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Wildlife Gardening: A Guide to Identifying and Attracting Wildlife to Your Garden

What is Wildlife Gardening?

Wildlife gardening is the practice of creating a garden that is specifically designed to attract and support wildlife. This can include providing food, shelter, and water for a variety of animals, including birds, insects, amphibians, and mammals.

Why is Wildlife Gardening Important?

Wildlife gardening is important for a number of reasons. First, it helps to support biodiversity. By providing a variety of habitats for different species, you can help to ensure that local wildlife populations remain healthy and diverse. Second, wildlife gardening can help to improve the overall health of your garden. Many wildlife species, such as birds and insects, play important roles in pollination and pest control. Finally, wildlife gardening can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature and learn more about the local wildlife in your area.

How to Identify Wildlife in Your Garden

One of the best ways to attract wildlife to your garden is to learn how to identify the different species that visit it. There are a number of resources available to help you do this, including field guides, websites, and apps. Once you know what species are visiting your garden, you can start to tailor your gardening practices to meet their specific needs.

Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

There are a number of things you can do to create a wildlife-friendly garden, including:

  • Providing food: Plant a variety of plants that produce flowers, fruits, and seeds throughout the year. This will provide a continuous food source for wildlife.
  • Providing shelter: Create nesting boxes, brush piles, and other structures that can provide shelter for wildlife.
  • Providing water: Place birdbaths and other water sources in your garden. This is especially important during hot weather or droughts.
  • Avoiding pesticides and herbicides: These chemicals can be harmful to wildlife. Instead, opt for natural pest and weed control methods.

Essential Plants for Wildlife

Some of the best plants for attracting wildlife to your garden include:

  • For birds: Sunflowers, black-eyed Susans, and berry bushes
  • For insects: Lavender, butterfly weed, and milkweed
  • For amphibians: Hostas, ferns, and water lilies
  • For mammals: Acorns, nuts, and berries

Seasonal Wildlife Gardening Tasks

There are a number of seasonal wildlife gardening tasks that you can do throughout the year to help support wildlife. These tasks include:

  • Spring: Clean out birdhouses and nest boxes, and plant new flowers and shrubs.
  • Summer: Provide water sources for wildlife, and mow your lawn less frequently to give wildflowers a chance to bloom.
  • Fall: Plant trees and shrubs that produce berries and nuts, and create brush piles for wildlife shelter.
  • Winter: Keep bird feeders full, and provide shelter for wildlife from the cold weather.

By following these tips, you can create a wildlife-friendly garden that will attract a variety of species and provide them with the food, shelter, and water they need to thrive.

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