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.

Perennials

Pulmonaria saccharata: A Shade-Loving Plant with Beautiful Flowers and Wildlife Benefits

by Donna June 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Pulmonaria saccharata: A Shade-Loving Plant with Beautiful Flowers and Wildlife Benefits

Introduction

Lungwort (Pulmonaria saccharata) is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the borage family (Boraginaceae) and is known for its attractive foliage and flowers.

Physical Characteristics

Lungwort is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 12-18 inches. It has hairy, mid-green leaves that are variegated with silver or white spots. The leaves resemble lungs, which is where the plant gets its name.

Lungwort produces funnel-shaped flowers in shades of blue, violet, pink, purple, red, and white. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Growing Conditions

Lungwort is a shade-loving plant that prefers to grow in moist but well-drained soil. It can tolerate full shade, partial shade, or dappled shade. Lungwort is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.

Planting and Care

Lungwort is easy to grow and can be planted in spring or fall. Choose a planting site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the lungwort in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant deeply after planting.

Lungwort requires minimal care. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Remove old leaves after flowering to promote new growth.

Benefits

Lungwort is a beneficial plant for wildlife. The flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. The leaves provide cover for small animals.

Toxicity

Lungwort is not toxic to humans or pets.

Companion Plants

Lungwort looks great when planted with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns, and hellebores. It can also be used as a ground cover under trees and shrubs.

Conclusion

Pulmonaria saccharata is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for shady gardens. Its attractive foliage and flowers add interest to the landscape, and it is a valuable food source for wildlife.

Additional Information

Best pulmonarias for foliage: Pulmonaria saccharata ‘Raspberry Splash’, Pulmonaria ‘Majeste’, Pulmonaria ‘David Ward’
How to grow lungwort in shade: Choose a planting site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Plant lungwort in moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Lungwort and wildlife: Lungwort is a beneficial plant for wildlife. The flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. The leaves provide cover for small animals.
Is lungwort poisonous to pets? No, lungwort is not toxic to humans or pets.
Plants that go well with Pulmonaria saccharata: Hostas, ferns, hellebores, trees, shrubs

Gardening

10 Ways to Save Money in the Garden: A Guide for Budget-Conscious Gardeners

by Donna June 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

10 Ways to Save Money in the Garden

Grow Plants from Seed

Growing plants from seed is a great way to save money. Seeds are much cheaper than buying plants, and you can grow many plants from a single packet of seed. Simply follow the instructions on the seed packet, and you’ll be on your way to growing your own beautiful plants.

Propagate Plants

Propagating plants is another great way to save money. You can propagate plants by taking cuttings, dividing perennials, or layering. Cuttings are simply pieces of stem that you can root in water or soil. Dividing perennials involves splitting the plant into two or more new plants. Layering involves burying a stem in the soil so that it can root and form a new plant.

Look After Your Tools

Taking care of your garden tools will help them last longer, which will save you money in the long run. Always clean your tools after each use, and store them in a dry place. Sharpen your tools regularly, and oil them to prevent rust.

Divide Perennials

If you buy perennials from a garden center, you may be able to save money by dividing them. Perennials are plants that come back year after year. When you divide a perennial, you are essentially creating two new plants. To divide a perennial, simply dig it up and use a sharp knife to cut it into two or more pieces. Each piece should have a good set of roots.

Grow Bird Food

Growing bird food is a great way to save money and attract birds to your garden. There are many different plants that you can grow that produce seeds or berries that birds love. Some popular choices include sunflowers, teasels, and lavender.

Make Compost and Mulch

Compost is a great way to add nutrients to your soil and improve its structure. You can make compost by composting kitchen scraps and garden waste. Mulch is a layer of material that you spread on top of the soil to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. You can use compost, leaves, or straw as mulch.

Swap Seed

Swapping seed with friends is a great way to get new plants without spending any money. Simply collect seeds from your own plants, and then trade them with friends for seeds from their plants.

Save Seed

Many plants produce their own seeds. You can collect these seeds and save them to plant next year. This is a great way to save money and ensure that you have a variety of plants in your garden.

Buy Second Hand and from Discount Stores

You can often find great deals on plants and gardening supplies at second-hand stores and discount stores. Be sure to check these stores regularly for sales and clearance items.

Conclusion

Saving money in the garden is easy if you know how. By following these tips, you can save money on plants, tools, and other gardening supplies.

Gardening Basics

Planting: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts Alike

by Donna June 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Planting: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Planting is a crucial aspect of gardening that can determine the success or failure of your plants. Whether you’re planting in the ground, in containers, or repotting houseplants, there are essential techniques to follow to ensure healthy growth and prevent problems.

Planting in the Ground

When planting in the ground, it’s important to choose the right location and prepare the soil well. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the rootball of the plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and spread the roots out evenly. Backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly after planting.

Planting in Containers

When planting in containers, select a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Fill the pot about halfway with potting mix, then carefully remove the plant from its original container. Loosen any circling roots and place the plant in the pot, filling in around the roots with more potting mix. Water thoroughly after planting.

Repotting Houseplants

Repotting houseplants is necessary as they grow and their roots become pot-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and use a fresh potting mix. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot and gently loosen any circling roots. Place the plant in the new pot and fill in around the roots with potting mix. Water thoroughly after repotting.

Planting Tips for Specific Plants

Hardy Fuchsia in Hanging Baskets:

Choose a hanging basket with good drainage holes.
Use a potting mix specifically designed for hanging baskets.
Plant the fuchsia plant in the center of the basket and backfill with potting mix.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist.

Cacti:

Use a cactus potting mix that is well-draining.
Choose a pot with drainage holes and avoid overwatering.
Wear gloves when handling cacti to prevent spines from pricking you.

Tulips:

Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, about 6 inches deep and 4 inches apart.
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Water the bulbs after planting and mulch around them to insulate them over the winter.

Conclusion

Planting is a skill that gardeners of all levels can master with a little knowledge and practice. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your plants thrive and bring beauty and enjoyment to your garden.

Additional Resources

[10 Tips for Planting Success](link to article on planting tips)
[Companion Planting Combinations](link to article on companion planting)
[April Planting Guide with Monty](link to article on planting in April)

Gardening

Spring Gardening: A Comprehensive Guide for April

by Donna June 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Spring Gardening: A Guide for April

Introduction

April is a time of new beginnings in the garden. The days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and plants are starting to wake up from their winter slumber. If you’re a gardener, April is a busy month, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Planting in April

One of the most important things to do in April is to get your seeds started. Many vegetables and flowers can be sown directly in the ground this month, including peas, beans, carrots, radishes, and lettuce. If you’re starting seeds indoors, be sure to harden them off before transplanting them outdoors.

April is also a good time to plant trees and shrubs. When choosing plants, be sure to select varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.

Spring Plant Care

Once your plants are in the ground, they’ll need some TLC to help them thrive. Here are a few tips:

Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize your plants according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth.

Wildlife Gardening in April

April is a great time to attract wildlife to your garden. Birds, bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects are all active this month. Here are a few tips for creating a wildlife-friendly garden:

Plant a variety of native plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife.
Avoid using pesticides and herbicides.
Provide a water source for birds and other animals.
Create a compost pile to attract insects and other decomposers.

Essential Gardening Skills for April

If you’re new to gardening, there are a few essential skills that you’ll need to master. These include:

How to sow seeds
How to transplant seedlings
How to water and fertilize plants
How to mulch
How to deadhead flowers

Saving Money on House Plants

House plants can be a great way to add life and color to your home, but they can also be expensive. Here are a few tips for saving money on house plants:

Buy plants from local nurseries or garden centers.
Look for sales and discounts.
Propagate your own plants from cuttings or divisions.
Choose low-maintenance plants that don’t require a lot of care.

Growing Vegetables in April

If you want to grow your own vegetables, April is a great time to start. Here are a few tips for growing vegetables in April:

Choose vegetables that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
Start seeds indoors or outdoors, depending on the type of vegetable.
Harden off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.
Water and fertilize your vegetables regularly.
Protect your vegetables from pests and diseases.

Conclusion

April is a busy but rewarding month for gardeners. By following the tips in this article, you can help your plants thrive and create a beautiful and welcoming garden.

Gardening Basics

Garden Kneelers: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Gardening

by Donna June 25, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Garden Kneelers: A Guide for Comfortable Gardening

Introduction

Gardening is a rewarding hobby, but it can be hard on your knees. Spending hours kneeling on the ground can lead to pain and discomfort. That’s where garden kneelers come in. These handy tools provide cushioning and support for your knees, making gardening more enjoyable and less painful.

Types of Garden Kneelers

There are three main types of garden kneelers:

Kneeling mats: These are simple, padded mats that you carry around the garden with you and place on the ground before kneeling. They are lightweight and easy to store, but they don’t offer as much support as other types of kneelers.
Knee pads: These are worn over your knees and provide cushioning and support while you are kneeling or moving around the garden. They are a good option for gardeners who need to be mobile and flexible.
Kneeler stools: These are padded stools with legs that can be used for kneeling or sitting. They offer the most support and comfort, but they are also the largest and heaviest type of kneeler.

Choosing the Right Garden Kneeler

When choosing a garden kneeler, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Comfort: The most important factor is comfort. Make sure the kneeler is large enough to accommodate your knees and provides adequate cushioning.
Support: Kneelers should provide support for your knees and help to reduce pain and discomfort. Look for kneelers with thick padding and a firm core.
Durability: Kneelers should be made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of gardening. Look for kneelers with water-resistant covers and sturdy construction.
Portability: If you need to move around the garden frequently, choose a kneeler that is lightweight and easy to carry.
Special features: Some kneelers come with additional features, such as built-in handles, storage compartments, or adjustable straps. Consider which features are important to you before making a decision.

Benefits of Using a Garden Kneeler

There are many benefits to using a garden kneeler, including:

Reduced pain and discomfort: Kneelers provide cushioning and support for your knees, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort while gardening.
Improved mobility: Kneelers can help you to move around the garden more easily and comfortably. This is especially important for gardeners who have limited mobility or knee problems.
Protection from the elements: Kneelers can help to protect your knees from the elements, such as dirt, moisture, and cold.
Increased enjoyment: Gardening should be enjoyable, not painful. Kneelers can help to make gardening more enjoyable by reducing pain and discomfort.

Conclusion

Garden kneelers are a valuable tool for any gardener. They can help to reduce pain and discomfort, improve mobility, protect your knees from the elements, and increase your enjoyment of gardening. When choosing a kneeler, consider your individual needs and preferences. With so many different types and styles of kneelers available, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.

Additional Tips for Choosing a Garden Kneeler

Consider the type of gardening you do. If you do a lot of kneeling, a kneeler with thick padding and a firm core is a good choice. If you need to be mobile, a knee pad or kneeler stool may be a better option.
Think about the size of your knees. Make sure the kneeler is large enough to accommodate your knees comfortably.
Look for kneelers with water-resistant covers. This will help to keep your knees dry and protected from the elements.
Consider your budget. Kneelers range in price from $10 to $100. Choose a kneeler that fits your budget and needs.

Gardening

Adam Frost’s 2024 Gardening Resolutions: Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Outdoor Oasis

by Donna June 24, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Adam Frost’s 2024 Gardening Resolutions

Garden Makeover Plans

Adam Frost, a well-known gardener, has shared his plans for improving his garden in 2024. He wants to create a more enjoyable and wildlife-friendly space.

Improving Views: Adam wants to enhance the views from his kitchen window by adding a raised pool near the steps. He also plans to plant a mixed bed in the front garden, similar to one he already has.
Revitalizing Medlar Trees: Adam has two overgrown medlar trees that he intends to rejuvenate. He will lift their canopies to improve their appearance and create space for under-planting.
New Potting Shed: Adam plans to build a new potting shed in the front garden, similar to the one he designed for the BBC Gardeners’ World Live show. It will have a green roof to add diversity.

Wildlife-Friendly Enhancements

Adam is passionate about providing a habitat for wildlife. One of his resolutions is to add a sparrow terrace to attract more feathered friends. He will also plant shrubs to create layers and provide cover for wildlife.

Growing and Cooking

Adam plans to experiment with growing new varieties of fruit and vegetables in his garden. He wants to reduce the quantity but increase the diversity of his crops.

He also intends to grow more herbs for cooking, both in the garden and in pots. Herbs are a versatile group of plants that require minimal space and can greatly enhance meals.

Enjoying the Outdoors

Adam recognizes the importance of taking time to relax and enjoy his garden. He plans to cook more meals outdoors and spend more quality time with friends and family in the garden.

Conclusion

Adam Frost’s gardening resolutions for 2024 focus on creating a beautiful, wildlife-friendly, and enjoyable outdoor space. By making these changes, he aims to enhance the overall experience of his garden.

Gardening

The Best Flowers for Honeybees: A Comprehensive Guide for Gardeners

by Donna June 23, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

The Best Flowers for Honeybees: A Guide for Budding Gardeners

Honeybees are essential pollinators that play a vital role in our ecosystem. By planting the right flowers in your garden, you can attract these busy bees and help them thrive. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best flowering plants for honeybees, organized by bloom time and specific needs.

Spring Blooms: A Sweet Start for Honeybees

As honeybees emerge from their winter slumber, they eagerly seek out early sources of pollen and nectar. These spring-blooming flowers provide a much-needed boost:

Willows (Salix species): These trees produce abundant catkins that are a rich source of early nectar.
Hellebores: These shade-tolerant plants offer nectar and pollen from late winter to early spring.
Spring blossom trees (apples, peaches, apricots, cherries, plums, blackthorn, hawthorn): These trees provide a feast of pollen and nectar for honeybees.

Summer Blooms: A Buzzing Bonanza

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, a wider variety of flowers burst into bloom, offering a smorgasbord of pollen and nectar for honeybees:

Sunflowers: These towering giants produce massive flower heads that are a magnet for honeybees.
Comfrey: This vigorous plant is not only a favorite of honeybees but also attracts other pollinators like bumblebees.
Catmint: Honeybees and other pollinators flock to the small but numerous blooms of catmint plants.
Michaelmas daisies (asters): These late-summer bloomers provide a rich source of pollen and nectar for honeybees.
Heathers (Calluna and Erica species): These compact plants offer small but highly rewarding flowers for bees.

Fall Blooms: A Sweet Farewell

As summer transitions into fall, honeybees continue to rely on flowers for sustenance. These late-blooming plants provide a final burst of pollen and nectar before winter:

Wallflowers: Honeybees love the easily accessible blooms of wallflowers, which can flower all year if deadheaded regularly.
Centaurea species: This genus includes a number of bee-friendly species, such as cornflowers, mountain cornflowers, and common knapweed.

Tips for Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden

Choose single flowers over double flowers: Double flowers often have extra petals that block access to pollen and nectar.
Plant a variety of flowers: This ensures a continuous supply of pollen and nectar throughout the year.
Include blue and purple flowers: Honeybees are particularly attracted to these colors.
Avoid using pesticides: Pesticides can harm honeybees and other pollinators.
Provide water: Honeybees need access to water to stay hydrated.

By following these tips, you can create a vibrant and welcoming garden that supports honeybees and other pollinators. Remember, every flower you plant makes a difference in the lives of these essential creatures.

Flower Gardening

How to Grow Wax Flower: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna June 23, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

How to Grow Wax Flower: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Wax flower (Chamelaucium) is a beautiful evergreen shrub with fragrant, pink or purple flowers. It’s a popular choice for gardens and homes, and it’s relatively easy to care for.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Wax flower prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil: It needs well-drained, acidic soil.
Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Humidity: Wax flower prefers a dry atmosphere.

Planting

Plant wax flower in a pot that’s two to three times the size of its original container.
Use a soil-based, peat-free potting compost with added grit or perlite for drainage.

Care

Fertilizing: Feed your wax flower monthly with a general liquid fertilizer while it’s in flower.
Pruning: Trim as needed to maintain a balanced shape, immediately after flowering has finished.

Pests and Diseases

Wax flower is generally trouble-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the growing conditions are too moist.

Buying Wax Flower

Wax flower is an uncommon plant in the UK. It’s sometimes sold along with house plants or may be found in nurseries specializing in exotic and conservatory plants.
Always check plants for signs of pests and diseases before planting.

Conclusion

Wax flower is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that can add a touch of elegance to any home or garden. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of wax flowers for years to come.

Gardening

Leyland Cypress: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for a Fast-Growing Hedge

by Donna June 23, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Leyland Cypress: A Fast-Growing Hedge for Privacy and Screening

What is Leyland Cypress?

Leyland cypress is a type of conifer tree that grows quickly and has dense, evergreen foliage. It’s a popular choice for hedges because it can create a thick, tall screen that provides privacy and protection from the wind.

How to Grow Leyland Cypress

Plant Leyland cypress in a sunny or partially shady spot with well-drained soil.
Space the plants 2-3 feet apart.
Water the hedge regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Trim the hedge two to three times a year to keep it in shape and prevent it from growing too tall.

How to Care for Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress is a hardy tree that can tolerate most soil conditions.
It’s important to trim the hedge regularly to keep it healthy and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Watch for pests and diseases, such as aphids and fungus, and treat them promptly.

Where to Buy Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress is widely available at nurseries, garden centers, and online suppliers. You can find plants in a range of sizes, from small to mature.

Benefits of Leyland Cypress

Fast-growing and easy to care for
Creates a thick, tall screen for privacy and wind protection
Hardy and can tolerate most soil conditions
Can be trimmed to any desired height and shape

Tips for Growing Leyland Cypress

Trim the hedge regularly to keep it in shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Water the hedge regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Plant Leyland cypress in a sunny or partially shady spot with well-drained soil.
Watch for pests and diseases, such as aphids and fungus, and treat them promptly.

Gardening Q&A

Monthly Gardening Q&A: Expert Answers to Your September Questions

by Donna June 22, 2024

written by Donna 5 minutes read

Monthly Gardening Q&A – September 2023

Introduction

Do you have gardening questions that need answering? Our team of horticultural experts are here to help! Each month, we answer a selection of your gardening questions and share the advice right here.

September 2023 Questions and Answers

Q: Why haven’t my dahlia flower buds opened?

A: Dahlias need plenty of sunlight and water to produce flowers. Make sure your dahlias are getting at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and are watered deeply and regularly.

Q: How do I keep the color of my maroon hydrangea?

A: The color of hydrangeas is determined by the pH of the soil. To keep the maroon color of your hydrangeas, you need to keep the soil acidic. You can do this by adding aluminum sulfate to the soil.

Q: How can I remove bamboo that has spread?

A: Bamboo can be difficult to remove once it has spread. The best way to remove bamboo is to dig up the rhizomes, which are the underground stems that spread the plant. You can also try using a bamboo barrier to prevent the rhizomes from spreading.

Q: When I bring cut flowers in, they’re full of insects. What can I do?

A: To prevent insects from getting into your cut flowers, you can try the following:

Submerge the flowers in a bucket of water for a few hours.
Spray the flowers with insecticidal soap.
Place the flowers in a vase with a few drops of dish soap.

Q: How do I encourage my morning glory to flower?

A: Morning glories need full sun and well-drained soil to flower. Make sure your morning glories are getting at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and are not planted in soggy soil.

August 2023 Questions and Answers

Q: How can I control red spider mite in my greenhouse?

A: Red spider mites are tiny pests that can damage plants by sucking the sap from their leaves. To control red spider mites, you can try the following:

Spray the plants with water to knock off the mites.
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the mites.
Introduce predatory mites to your greenhouse, which will eat the red spider mites.

Q: Can I put raised beds for vegetables on top of gravel?

A: Yes, you can put raised beds for vegetables on top of gravel. However, you will need to make sure that the gravel is well-drained and that the raised beds are high enough to allow for proper drainage.

Q: Why have most of the leaves and flowers on my dahlia been eaten?

A: There are a few different pests that can eat dahlia leaves and flowers, including slugs, snails, and caterpillars. To protect your dahlias from these pests, you can try the following:

Use slug and snail bait to kill slugs and snails.
Handpick caterpillars off of your plants.
Spray your plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Q: My compost heap is covered in cleavers. What should I do?

A: Cleavers are a common weed that can quickly take over a compost heap. To get rid of cleavers, you can try the following:

Pull the cleavers out of the compost heap by hand.
Mow the cleavers down with a lawn mower.
Spray the cleavers with herbicide.

Q: Why do my lavender plants flop over?

A: Lavender plants can flop over for a few different reasons, including overwatering, too much nitrogen fertilizer, or not enough sunlight. To prevent your lavender plants from flopping over, make sure that you are not overwatering them, that you are using a balanced fertilizer, and that they are getting enough sunlight.

Conclusion

We hope that this month’s Q&A has been helpful. If you have any other gardening questions, please feel free to send them to our team of horticultural experts.

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