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

Protecting Plants During Construction: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

by Donna September 22, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Protecting Plants During Construction: A Guide for Homeowners

Introduction

When you’re planning a new addition, rebuilding your garage, or embarking on any other construction project, it’s crucial to consider how you’ll protect the plants on your property. Construction activities can pose various threats to trees and other greenery, ranging from root injury to heavy machinery compaction. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your landscape and minimize the impact on the environment.

Potential Damage to Plants During Construction

Construction activities can damage plants in numerous ways, including:

Root injury: Digging foundations and installing utilities can sever or crush plant roots, depriving them of water, nutrients, and oxygen.
Heavy machinery compaction: Large construction equipment can compact the soil around plants, making it difficult for roots to absorb water and nutrients.
Slope changes: Altering the natural slope of the land can disrupt drainage patterns and expose plants to erosion or waterlogging.
Off gases and chemicals: Construction materials and equipment can release chemicals and fumes that can harm plant health.

Protecting Plants During Construction

To protect your plants during construction, consider the following strategies:

Proper Pruning: Pruning can help protect plants from damage caused by machinery or falling debris.
Temporary Relocation: In some cases, it may be necessary to temporarily move plants out of the construction zone.
Root Protection: Cover exposed roots with burlap or other protective materials to prevent drying out and damage.
Fencing and Barriers: Install fencing or clearly mark areas around plants to prevent accidental damage.
Covering Plants: Use tarps or sheets to protect plants from dust, debris, and chemicals.
Watering: Water plants regularly, especially those that have been moved or are under stress.

Specific Considerations for Different Plant Types

Trees:

Trees are particularly vulnerable to root damage and heavy machinery compaction.
Consider pruning to remove low-hanging branches that could interfere with construction.
Protect the trunk with padding or fencing.

Shrubs and Bushes:

Shrubs and bushes can be damaged by pruning, machinery, or falling debris.
Tie back branches that could be exposed to damage.
Cover with tarps or netting to protect from dust and chemicals.

Vines:

Vines can be susceptible to damage from pruning or being crushed by machinery.
Cut back self-attaching vines, as they will not reattach once the “fingers” are removed.
Use trellises or supports to keep vines off the ground and out of the way of construction activities.

Conclusion

Protecting plants during construction requires careful planning and proactive measures. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can safeguard your landscape and minimize the impact of construction activities on your property’s flora. Remember to consult with a professional arborist or landscaper for personalized advice and assistance in protecting your plants during construction.

Gardening

Garden Pathways: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Construction, and Design

by Donna September 21, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Garden Pathways: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Garden pathways are a great way to add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. They can lead you from one area of your garden to another, create a sense of structure, and protect your plants from being trampled on.

Planning Your Garden Pathways

Before you start digging, it’s important to plan out your garden pathways. Consider the following factors:

Purpose: What is the purpose of your pathway? Is it for strolling and admiring the garden, or is it utilitarian, making it easier to access areas for maintenance or harvest?
Width: Pathways should be wide enough for two people to stroll along together, or at least as wide as a wheelbarrow or other needed garden equipment to fit through.
Materials: The materials you choose for your pathway will depend on your budget, the feel of your garden, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do.
Placement: Consider which areas of the garden will benefit most from the construction of pathways. Entryways, for example, should always have a path leading to them.

Materials for Garden Pathways

There are a wide variety of materials that can be used to create garden pathways, including:

Permeable surfaces: Gravel or decomposed granite are good choices for permeable surfaces that allow water to drain through.
Plants: Moss, grass, creeping thyme, and other plants that are resistant to foot traffic can be used to create lush and inviting pathways.
Brick or flagstone: Brick and flagstone are classic choices for garden pathways that are both durable and beautiful.
Bark or wood chips: Bark or wood chips are a good option for pathways that are soft and easy to walk on.
Concrete: Concrete is a durable and low-maintenance option for garden pathways, but it can be slippery when wet.

Construction Tips

Once you’ve chosen your materials, it’s time to start constructing your garden pathways. Here are a few tips:

Lay out your path: Use twine, rope, or a garden hose to lay out the path of your pathway before you start digging.
Dig the trench: Dig a trench that is deep enough to accommodate the thickness of your materials plus a few inches for a base layer of gravel or sand.
Install the base layer: Fill the trench with a base layer of gravel or sand to help with drainage and prevent weeds from growing.
Lay your materials: Lay your chosen materials on top of the base layer, making sure to tamp them down firmly.
Edge your pathway: Edging your pathway with bricks, stones, or other materials will help to keep it in place and prevent weeds from growing.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Once your pathway is constructed, you can add the finishing touches to make it truly unique. Consider adding:

Curves: A curved pathway is more interesting than a straight one.
Steps: Steps can be used to bridge height differences in your garden.
Lighting: Lighting can create a dramatic effect on your garden pathways, especially at night.
Plants: Plants can be used to add color, texture, and fragrance to your garden pathways.
Seating: Place a bench or chair along your pathway to create a place to rest and enjoy the view.

With a little planning and effort, you can create garden pathways that are both beautiful and functional. So get started today and enjoy the benefits of a well-designed garden pathway!

Gardening

Growing Onions in Zone 9: The Ultimate Guide for Success

by Donna September 20, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Onions for Zone 9: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Onions are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. They come in many different varieties, each with its own unique flavor and growing requirements. If you live in USDA zone 9, you’ll need to choose onion varieties that are suited to your climate.

About Zone 9 Onions

Zone 9 is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. This means that onions that grow best in zone 9 are those that prefer shorter days and warmer temperatures. These onions are known as short-day onions.

Short-day onions typically have a higher water content than long-day onions, so they don’t store as well. However, they are sweeter and milder in flavor.

What Onions Grow Best in Zone 9?

There are several different varieties of short-day onions that grow well in zone 9. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Grano: A sweet, early-maturing onion that is available in both yellow and white varieties.
Granex: A jumbo to colossal globe-shaped onion that is highly disease resistant.
Texas SuperSweet: A sweet, early-maturing onion that is known for its large size.
White Bermuda: A mild onion with thick, flat bulbs that are best eaten fresh.

Growing Onions in Zone 9

To grow onions in zone 9, you’ll need to:

Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure and a complete fertilizer.
Sow the seeds: Sow the seeds for short to intermediate day length onions in mid to late October, directly into the garden. Cover the seeds with ¼ inch of soil.
Thin the seedlings: Thin the seedlings so they are at least 2 to 3 inches apart to allow for bulb growth.
Fertilize the plants: Side dress the onions with a nitrate-based fertilizer rather than a sulfate based.
Water the plants: Onions need lots of moisture as the bulb forms, but less as they approach maturity. Keep the plants watered with an inch or so of water per week depending upon the weather but lessen the amount of irrigation as the plants near harvest.

Tips for Growing Onions in Zone 9

Choose onion varieties that are suited to your climate.
Prepare the soil properly before planting.
Thin the seedlings to allow for bulb growth.
Fertilize the plants regularly.
Water the plants deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering.
Harvest the onions when they are mature.

Conclusion

Onions are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be grown in a variety of climates. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully grow onions in zone 9.

Citrus Growing

Citrus Bud Drop: Causes and Solutions for Optimal Fruit Production

by Donna September 20, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Citrus Bud Drop: Why It Happens and What to Do

What is Citrus Bud Drop?

Citrus bud drop is a natural process that occurs after citrus trees bloom. The tree sheds most of its buds, usually around 80-90%. This is because the tree cannot support the weight of all the fruit that would develop from every bud.

Why Does Citrus Bud Drop Occur?

There are several reasons why citrus bud drop may occur:

Natural process: As mentioned above, citrus bud drop is a natural way for the tree to regulate its fruit production.
Young trees: Young citrus trees do not have the root system or canopy to support a large crop of fruit. They will naturally drop most of their buds.
Improper watering: Too much or too little water can cause citrus buds to drop.
Poor drainage: Soil that does not drain well can lead to waterlogged roots, which can also cause bud drop.

What to Do About Citrus Bud Drop

Natural bud drop: If your citrus tree is experiencing natural bud drop, there is no need to worry. This is a normal part of the tree’s growth cycle.

Young trees: For young citrus trees, it is important to be patient. The tree will naturally develop a larger root system and canopy over time, which will allow it to support more fruit.

Improper watering: If you suspect that your citrus tree is experiencing bud drop due to improper watering, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Water the tree deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and often.

Poor drainage: If your citrus tree is planted in soil with poor drainage, you can improve the drainage by amending the soil with compost or other organic matter. You can also plant the tree in a raised bed or container with drainage holes.

Long-Term Prevention

In addition to addressing the immediate causes of citrus bud drop, there are some long-term steps you can take to prevent it from happening in the future:

Choose the right rootstock: The rootstock is the base of the citrus tree, and it can affect the tree’s tolerance to drought, cold, and other factors. Choose a rootstock that is well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
Prune your tree: Pruning helps to create a strong, open canopy that allows for good air circulation and sunlight penetration. This can help to prevent fungal diseases and other problems that can lead to bud drop.
Fertilize your tree: Citrus trees need regular fertilization to produce healthy fruit. Fertilize your tree according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Protect your tree from pests and diseases: Pests and diseases can damage citrus trees and cause bud drop. Inspect your tree regularly for signs of pests or diseases, and take appropriate action to control them.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent citrus bud drop and ensure that your tree produces a bountiful harvest of delicious fruit.

Orchids

Lady Slipper Orchids: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing, Care, and Propagation

by Donna September 20, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Lady Slipper Orchids: A Guide for Beginners

What Are Lady Slipper Orchids?

Lady slipper orchids (Cypripedium) are beautiful and unique flowers that are native to North America and parts of Europe. They get their name from their flower shape, which resembles a lady’s slipper. These orchids have only two leaves and a single flower stalk that grows from the center. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple.

How to Grow Lady Slipper Orchids

While lady slipper orchids can be found in the wild, it is difficult to transplant them successfully. Instead, it is best to purchase them from commercial growers. Lady slippers prefer to grow in shady woodlands with well-aerated soil and moist conditions. Avoid planting them in full sun or dry locations.

Lady Slipper Orchid Care

One of the most important aspects of lady slipper care is watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Use rainwater or distilled water whenever possible. Lady slipper plants also benefit from a diluted balanced fertilizer once or twice between spring and early summer.

Lady Slipper Propagation

Propagating lady slippers can be challenging, but it is possible. The best time to propagate them is in the spring or fall. You can propagate lady slippers by division or by seed. Division is the more common method, and it involves dividing a clump of plants and replanting the divisions. Seed propagation is more difficult, but it can be successful if you provide the seeds with the right conditions.

Types of Lady Slipper Orchids

There are many different types of lady slipper orchids, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common types include:

Pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule): This species has deep pink flowers that bloom in late June and July.
Yellow lady slipper (Cypripedium calceolus): This species has yellow flowers that bloom in early spring.
Showy lady’s slipper (Cypripedium reginae): This species has large, showy flowers that are white with pink streaks.
White lady’s slipper (Cypripedium candidum): This species has small, white flowers that are considered endangered.

Conclusion

Lady slipper orchids are beautiful and rewarding plants to grow. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully grow and care for these unique orchids in your own garden.

Vegetable Gardening

How to Grow Asparagus: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Harvesting

by Donna September 19, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

How to Grow Asparagus: A Guide for Beginners

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easy to grow at home. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy fresh asparagus from your own garden for many years to come.

Starting Asparagus from Seed

Asparagus can be started from seed or from crowns. Starting from seed is less expensive, but it takes longer to get a harvest. If you start from seed, you will need to sow the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. The seeds should be planted about 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Keep the seeds moist and warm, and they should germinate in 3-6 weeks.

Planting Asparagus Crowns

Planting asparagus crowns is the quickest way to get a harvest. Crowns are available for purchase at most garden centers. When choosing crowns, look for ones that are firm and healthy.

To plant asparagus crowns, dig a trench that is 8-12 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide. Space the crowns 12-18 inches apart in the trench. Cover the crowns with soil, and water them well.

Asparagus Planting Instructions

Once you have started your asparagus plants from seed or crowns, there are a few things you need to do to care for them.

Water: Asparagus plants need regular watering, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize: Asparagus plants are heavy feeders, so they need to be fertilized regularly. A balanced fertilizer can be applied every few weeks.
Weed: Asparagus beds should be kept weed free. Weeds can compete with asparagus plants for water and nutrients.
Mulch: Mulching around asparagus plants helps to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Asparagus

Asparagus is ready to harvest when the spears are 6-8 inches tall. To harvest asparagus, simply snap the spears off at the base. Be careful not to damage the plant.

Asparagus can be harvested for 6-8 weeks each spring. After harvesting, allow the plants to grow and fern out. This will help them to store energy for the next growing season.

Common Asparagus Problems

Asparagus is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few common problems that you may encounter.

Pests: Asparagus beetles are the most common pests of asparagus plants. These beetles can damage the leaves and stems of the plants.
Diseases: Asparagus rust is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of asparagus plants to turn yellow and drop off.
Nutrient deficiencies: Asparagus plants can develop nutrient deficiencies if the soil is not fertile.

Tips for Growing Asparagus

Asparagus prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5-7.0.
Asparagus plants need full sun to partial shade.
Asparagus plants are heavy feeders, so they need to be fertilized regularly.
Asparagus beds should be kept weed free.

Trees and Shrubs

Butternut Trees: What They Are, How to Grow Them, and More

by Donna September 18, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

What are Butternuts?

Butternuts are not a type of squash, but rather a species of walnut tree native to the eastern United States and Canada. They are also known as white walnut trees because of their pale gray bark. Butternut trees are related to black walnut trees and other members of the walnut family.

Butternut Tree Information

Butternut trees grow to be about 60 feet tall and have dark green leaves arranged in leaflets that can be up to 20 inches long. The fruit of the butternut tree is a nut that is not round like the nut of the black walnut tree, but elongated and longer than it is wide. The nut is deeply ridged and grows inside a green, hairy husk until they mature in mid-autumn.

Are Butternuts Edible?

Yes, butternuts are edible and have been eaten by Native Americans for centuries. The butternut is an oily nut that can be eaten as is when mature or prepared in a variety of ways. The Iroquois crushed and boiled butternuts and served the mixture as baby food or drinks, or processed it into breads, puddings, and sauces.

Growing Butternuts

It is possible to grow butternuts in your backyard, if you have a site with rich, loamy soil. The trees are vigorous and live for some 75 years. However, the butternut tree is now a threatened species due to its susceptibility to a fungal canker disease called butternut canker. Hybrids, where white walnut trees are crossed with Japanese walnut, are more resistant to the canker.

Butternut Canker

Butternut canker is a fungal disease that has caused a decline in butternut tree populations in the wild. The disease is caused by the fungus Sirococcus clavigignenti-jug-landacearum. Symptoms of butternut canker include cankers on the trunk and branches, wilting leaves, and dieback of branches. There is no cure for butternut canker, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent the disease, such as avoiding wounding the trees and planting resistant varieties.

Butternut Tree Benefits

Butternut trees provide a number of benefits, including:

Food: Butternuts are a nutritious food source for humans and wildlife.
Timber: Butternut wood is strong and durable, making it valuable for furniture and other woodworking projects.
Wildlife habitat: Butternut trees provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including squirrels, birds, and insects.

Conclusion

Butternut trees are a valuable resource that provide a number of benefits. However, they are threatened by butternut canker disease. By taking steps to prevent the disease, we can help to protect these trees and ensure that they continue to provide benefits for generations to come.

Gardening Basics

Hybrid vs. Non-Hybrid Seeds: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Gardeners

by Donna September 18, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Hybrid vs. Non-Hybrid Seeds: A Guide for Young Gardeners

Introduction

Growing plants can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be confusing if you don’t understand the different terms that are used. Two of the most common terms that you’ll encounter are “hybrid seeds” and “non-hybrid seeds.” In this article, we’ll explain what these terms mean and help you decide which type of seed is right for your garden.

What are Hybrid Seeds?

Hybrid seeds are created by carefully pollinating two specific varieties of plants. This process is usually done to combine two desirable traits from each parent plant. For example, one parent plant might be very drought tolerant, while the other parent plant might produce a lot of fruit. The resulting hybrid seed will produce plants that have both of these traits.

Hybrid seeds are often used in commercial agriculture because they can produce plants that are more productive, disease-resistant, and pest-resistant than non-hybrid plants. However, hybrid seeds can also be more expensive than non-hybrid seeds.

What are Non-Hybrid Seeds?

Non-hybrid seeds, also called open-pollinated seeds or heirloom seeds, are produced by plants that are pollinated naturally. These varieties have been around for centuries, and they will produce plants that are very similar to the parent plant.

Non-hybrid seeds are often preferred by organic gardeners because they are not genetically modified. They are also less expensive than hybrid seeds. However, non-hybrid seeds can be more susceptible to disease and pests than hybrid seeds, and they may not produce as much fruit or vegetables.

Which Type of Seed is Right for Me?

The best type of seed for your garden depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for plants that are high-yielding, disease-resistant, and pest-resistant, then hybrid seeds may be a good option for you. However, if you are on a budget or you prefer to grow organic plants, then non-hybrid seeds may be a better choice.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between hybrid and non-hybrid seeds:

Feature	Hybrid Seeds	Non-Hybrid Seeds
Production method	Created by pollinating two specific varieties of plants	Pollinated naturally
Genetic modification	Often genetically modified	Not genetically modified
Cost	More expensive	Less expensive
Yield	Higher yield	Lower yield
Disease resistance	More disease-resistant	Less disease-resistant
Pest resistance	More pest-resistant	Less pest-resistant

Conclusion

Whether you choose to grow hybrid or non-hybrid seeds, the most important thing is to choose seeds that are appropriate for your climate and your gardening goals. With a little research, you can find the perfect seeds to help you grow a beautiful and bountiful garden.

Gardening

Senecio: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Caring for These Unique Plants

by Donna September 17, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Senecio: A Guide for Beginners

What is Senecio?

Senecio is a genus of plants with over 1,000 species. About 100 of these species are succulents, which are plants that store water in their fleshy leaves and stems. Senecio succulents can be trailing, spreading groundcovers, or large, shrubby plants. They are known for their interesting shapes and textures, and some varieties even produce beautiful flowers.

Senecio Plant Info

Senecio succulents are popular indoor plants in areas with cool winters. They can also be grown outdoors in warm climates. When grown indoors, they are often displayed in hanging baskets, with their long, trailing stems cascading over the sides.

Some popular varieties of senecio succulents include string of pearls and string of bananas. Other varieties, such as groundsel and tansy ragwort, are more commonly found growing wild.

Senecio plants typically have yellow, sunflower-like blooms, but some varieties may produce purple or white flowers. The leaves can be deep green, bluish green, or variegated.

Toxicity of Senecio Plants

It is important to note that senecio plants are toxic to both humans and animals. The sap can cause severe skin irritation, and the pollen can affect honey produced by bees that forage on the blooms. Ingestion of senecio plants can cause fatal liver disease in livestock, especially if consumed in large amounts or over a long period of time.

Growing Senecio Succulents

Senecio succulents are relatively easy to grow, making them a good choice for beginners. Here are some tips for growing healthy senecio plants:

Light: Senecio succulents need bright light, but they should be protected from hot and cold drafts.
Soil: Senecio succulents prefer sandy, well-drained soil. They are prone to rot in soggy conditions.
Water: Senecio succulents are drought tolerant and should be watered sparingly, especially during the winter. Always let the soil dry out completely between watering.
Fertilizer: Fertilize your senecio succulents lightly once a year during spring or summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy, unsightly growth.
Propagation: Starting a new senecio plant is easy. Simply plant a leaf or two in a container with a mix of potting soil and sand.

Benefits of Senecio Plants

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, senecio plants can also provide some benefits. For example, some varieties of senecio are known to have medicinal properties. They have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, burns, and skin infections.

Conclusion

Senecio plants are a diverse and interesting group of plants that can add beauty and interest to any home or garden. With proper care, senecio succulents can thrive for many years.

Gardening

Lantana Control: How to Manage and Eliminate Invasive Lantana

by Donna September 16, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Lantana: A Beautiful but Invasive Plant

Lantana camara is a flowering plant that can be both beautiful and a nuisance. In some gardens, it adds colorful blooms, while in others, it can take over and become a pest.

About Lantana

Lantana is a shrub with small, colorful flowers that change color over time. It is native to the West Indies and is popular with home gardeners. In warmer climates, lantana is a perennial, but in cooler regions, it is grown as an annual or in containers.

Lantana as a Weed

In some areas, lantana has become an invasive weed. It grows quickly and aggressively, forming thick hedges that are difficult to penetrate. Lantana is also toxic to livestock and humans.

Controlling Lantana

Controlling lantana can be challenging because it is a tough plant. However, there are several methods that can be effective.

Physical Control

Pulling out lantana by hand can be effective for small infestations.
Removing flower heads before seeds form can prevent the spread of lantana.

Chemical Control

Chemical herbicides can be used to control lantana, but they can be expensive and harmful to the environment.

Biological Control

Researchers are currently working on strategies using insects to destroy lantana plants.

Preventing the Spread of Lantana

Keeping your yard full of healthy, native plants can help prevent the spread of lantana.
Lantana tends to take over disturbed, open areas.

Lantana Toxicity

All parts of the lantana plant are toxic to humans and livestock.
Contact with the leaves and stems can cause skin irritation and a rash.

Tips for Managing Lantana

Use gloves and wear long sleeves when handling lantana.
Check with your local agricultural extension office for recommendations on using insects to control lantana.
With a multi-step approach, you can effectively manage or even eliminate invasive lantana from your garden or yard.

Additional Information

Lantana is native to the West Indies.
Lantana flowers change color over time.
Lantana is toxic to humans and livestock.
Lantana can be controlled using physical, chemical, and biological methods.
Preventing the spread of lantana is important to protect your garden and the environment.

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