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Easy to Grow

Mesembryanthemum: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Care

by Gregory April 30, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

All About Mesembryanthemum: A Beginner’s Guide

What is Mesembryanthemum?

Mesembryanthemum, also known as ice plant, is a beautiful succulent that produces daisy-like flowers in bright colors all summer long. It’s easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

How to Grow Mesembryanthemum

Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Plant mesembryanthemum in spring after the last frost.
Water regularly, especially after planting.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth.
Trim back stems in autumn to keep the plant compact.

How to Care for Mesembryanthemum

Mesembryanthemum is a low-maintenance plant. It doesn’t need much water or fertilizer.

Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect from frost in winter by moving indoors or covering with mulch.

How to Propagate Mesembryanthemum

You can propagate mesembryanthemum from seed or cuttings.

Sow seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
Take cuttings in early summer and root them in moist soil.

Pests and Diseases

Mesembryanthemum is generally pest-free. However, it may attract aphids.

Remove aphids by hand or use an insecticidal soap.
Waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Avoid overwatering.

Where to Buy Mesembryanthemum

You can buy mesembryanthemum plugs or seeds online or at your local garden center.

Tips for Success

Choose the right location: Mesembryanthemum needs full sun and well-draining soil.
Water wisely: Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.
Deadhead and trim: Deadhead spent flowers and trim back stems to encourage growth and flowering.
Protect from frost: Move indoors or cover with mulch in winter to protect from frost.

Perennials

Lady’s Mantle: A Versatile and Easy-to-Grow Perennial with Medicinal Uses

by Gregory April 30, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Lady’s Mantle: A Versatile and Easy-to-Grow Perennial

Lady’s mantle, also known as Alchemilla mollis, is a popular and easy-to-grow hardy herbaceous perennial. It is a versatile plant that thrives in a wide range of soils and situations, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels. Lady’s mantle also has a long history of medicinal uses, primarily for menstrual disorders and other female problems.

Medicinal Uses of Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s mantle has been used for centuries to treat menstrual and menopausal disorders, as well as inflammation. It is still prescribed by herbalists today. However, it is important to note that, as with all herbal medicines, you should only take lady’s mantle as advised by a qualified herbalist.

Growing Lady’s Mantle

Planting

Lady’s mantle can be planted at any time of year, but autumn or spring are ideal. If planting in groups, allow 30-45cm between plants. Water well after planting, especially if planting during the growing season.

Care

Lady’s mantle is a low-maintenance plant that needs little care once established. Water regularly during dry spells, and fertilize lightly in spring. Cut back faded stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding. If the plant is looking straggly, cut stems to the ground to encourage fresh new growth. Once growth has died back in autumn, cut to ground level.

Propagation

Lady’s mantle can be propagated by division in autumn or early spring. Dig up the clump and split into good-sized pieces, each with plenty of roots and shoot buds. Replant at the same depth as growing previously, into soil which has been improved with compost or soil conditioner.

Problem Solving

Lady’s mantle is generally pest- and disease-free. However, it can sometimes be affected by slugs and snails. To prevent this, keep the area around the plants clear of debris, and apply slug and snail bait if necessary.

Buying Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s mantle is widely available from nurseries, garden centres, and online suppliers. Plants are available in several sizes, from 9cm pots up to 2 litre pots. During the dormant season, purchase plants as bare rooted clumps.

Conclusion

Lady’s mantle is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is a great choice for gardeners of all levels, and its medicinal properties make it a valuable addition to any herbal medicine cabinet.

Gardening

Cotton Lavender: A Comprehensive Growing Guide for Beginners

by Gregory April 26, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Cotton Lavender: A Guide for Gardeners

Introduction

Cotton lavender (Santolina chamaecyparissus) is a popular small shrub known for its attractive silvery foliage and masses of bright yellow flowers in summer. Despite its name, it’s not related to lavender or cotton.

Characteristics

Cotton lavender forms a compact, bushy mound of evergreen foliage. Its finely divided leaves give it a feathery appearance and are aromatic when bruised. The button-like flowers are up to 2cm across and borne on straight, slender stems.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, chalky, alkaline, light, or sandy
Planting: Autumn or early to mid-spring in colder areas, autumn in milder areas
Watering: During dry spells for the first growing season, until established

Maintenance

Pruning: Twice yearly – cut back hard in mid-spring and remove dead flower stems in late summer.
Other: Check for signs of disease or damage before buying or planting.

Benefits

Drought tolerant
Non-toxic
Ideal for border edges, raised beds, and dwarf hedges

Additional Information

Plant calendar: Plant in March, April, May, or September. Flowers from May to July. Divide in March, April, September, or October. Cut back in February or March.
Wildlife value: No known particular value to wildlife in the UK.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans, animals, and livestock.

Conclusion

Cotton lavender is an easy-to-grow shrub that adds beauty and texture to any garden. With its attractive foliage, bright flowers, and low maintenance requirements, it’s a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Flower Gardening

Evening Primrose: How to Grow and Care for This Easy-to-Grow Wildflower

by Gregory April 24, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow and Care for Evening Primrose

Introduction

Evening primrose is a beautiful wildflower that’s easy to grow and care for. It’s a popular choice for gardens because it attracts pollinators and has a pleasant evening fragrance.

About Evening Primrose

Evening primrose is a biennial plant, meaning it lives for two years. In the first year, it forms a rosette of leaves. In the second year, it produces a tall stem with large, yellow flowers that open in the evening.

Evening primrose is native to North America, but it has naturalized in many other parts of the world. It’s a member of the Oenothera genus, which includes several other species of evening primrose.

Growing Evening Primrose

Evening primrose is easy to grow from seed. You can sow seeds in late autumn or early spring, either in pots or directly where you want them to grow. If you’re starting seeds indoors, be sure to plant them out in their first year, as they have a long taproot that can be damaged when transplanting.

Evening primrose prefers moist but well-drained soil and a sunny location. It can tolerate partial shade, but it will bloom best in full sun.

Caring for Evening Primrose

Evening primrose plants require very little care. Water them during dry periods and remove faded flowers and leaves as needed. Towards the end of their flowering period, leave some flowers on the plant to set seed. You can collect the seeds to sow next year, or let them self-seed naturally.

Pests and Diseases

Evening primrose is not bothered by many pests or diseases. However, young plants may be susceptible to slug and snail damage. You can protect your plants by using slug bait or creating a physical barrier around them.

Varieties of Evening Primrose

There are many different varieties of evening primrose available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

Oenothera ‘Apricot Delight’: Flowers that change from pale yellow to apricot and then coral pink.
Oenothera ‘Lemon Sunset’: Soft yellow flowers with a beautiful evening fragrance.

Conclusion

Evening primrose is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that’s perfect for any garden. With its attractive flowers and pleasant fragrance, it’s sure to add beauty and interest to your outdoor space.

Gardening

Mazus Groundcover: A Versatile and Low-Maintenance Plant for Your Garden

by Gregory April 23, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Mazus Groundcover: A Tiny Plant with a Big Impact

Introduction

Mazus groundcover is a small but mighty plant that can add a touch of beauty and functionality to your garden. This tiny perennial forms a dense mat of foliage that stays green throughout most of the year, and it’s dotted with delicate blue flowers in the summer. Mazus is also a low-maintenance plant that’s easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

How to Grow Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of locations and conditions. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate moderate to high moisture levels. Mazus is also hardy to USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 7 or 8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

To grow mazus groundcover, simply plant the plugs or seeds in the desired location and water them well. Mazus will quickly spread to fill in bare spots, forming a dense mat of foliage. You can also grow mazus in shaped patches by using barriers to stop the spread.

Mazus Reptans Care

Mazus groundcover is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care. It may not require annual fertilization, but if necessary, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Mazus is also drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from regular watering during hot, dry weather.

One of the best things about mazus groundcover is that it is seldom bothered by pests or diseases. However, it is important to keep the plants clean and free of debris to prevent problems.

Uses for Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. It is a great choice for groundcover in small areas, such as between steppingstones or in rock gardens. Mazus can also be used to fill in bare spots in the lawn or to create a shaped patch in the garden.

Benefits of Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover offers a number of benefits for gardeners, including:

Low-maintenance: Mazus is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care.
Drought-tolerant: Mazus is drought-tolerant and will survive even in hot, dry weather.
Pest- and disease-resistant: Mazus is seldom bothered by pests or diseases.
Versatile: Mazus can be used in a variety of ways in the garden, including as groundcover, in rock gardens, and in shaped patches.

Conclusion

Mazus groundcover is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience and can be used in a variety of ways in the garden.

Gardening

Annual Climbers: Easy-to-Grow Beauties for a Vibrant Garden

by Gregory April 22, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Annual Climbers: Fast-Growing Beauties for Your Garden

What are Annual Climbers?

Annual climbers are plants that grow quickly and climb up structures like trellises or obelisks. They produce masses of flowers and can cover unsightly areas or add a splash of color to your garden.

Easy to Grow from Seed

Many annual climbers are easy to grow from seed. Simply sow the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them warm and moist. Within a few weeks, you’ll have seedlings that you can transplant into your garden.

Best Annual Climbers for Beginners

Here are some of the best annual climbers for beginners:

Climbing snapdragon (Asarina scandens)
Cup-and-saucer vine (Cobaea scandens)
Moon flower (Ipomoea alba)
Spanish flag (Mina lobata)
Creeping gloxinia (Lophospermum erubescens)

Tips for Growing Annual Climbers

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Provide a trellis or obelisk for the climbers to grow on.
Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize monthly to encourage flowering.

Using Annual Climbers in Your Garden

Annual climbers can be used in a variety of ways in your garden:

To cover unsightly areas, such as sheds or fences.
To create a colorful display along a trellis or fence.
To attract wildlife, such as butterflies and hummingbirds.
To provide shade and privacy.

Long-Tail Keyword Optimization

How to grow annual climbers from seed: Sow seeds in well-drained soil, keep warm and moist.
Tips for growing annual climbers: Choose a sunny spot, provide a trellis, water regularly, fertilize monthly.
Best annual climbers for small spaces: Climbing snapdragon, cup-and-saucer vine, moon flower.
Annual climbers for dramatic color combinations: Spanish flag, creeping gloxinia, cypress vine.

Conclusion

Annual climbers are a great way to add beauty and interest to your garden. They are easy to grow from seed and can be used in a variety of ways. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some color to your garden, consider planting some annual climbers.

Gardening

Golden Star Plants: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for This Versatile Ground Cover

by Donna April 21, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Golden Star Plants: A Versatile and Easy-Care Ground Cover

Introduction

Golden star plants, also known as green-and-gold, are native to the eastern United States. They are prized for their bright yellow-gold flowers that bloom continuously from spring until autumn. Golden star plants are ideal for ground cover, borders, and edging. They are also a low-maintenance choice for steep banks, where they can help to prevent erosion.

Growing Golden Stars

Growing golden star plants is easy. They need at least half a day of sunlight, but they can tolerate less light. However, the foliage will be looser and the flowers will be smaller and fewer in number in low-light conditions. Golden star plants can grow in almost any type of soil, but they prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Space the plants 8 to 18 inches apart and allow them to spread and fill in the area. One of the best varieties for ground cover is C. virginianum var. austral, which is sold under the cultivar name ‘Eco-Lacquered Spider.’ This cultivar spreads quickly by taking root wherever its stolons come in contact with the soil. It also self-seeds, and the seedlings germinate in spring.

Care of Golden Star Ground Cover

Water the plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. A thin layer of mulch can help the soil retain moisture and reduce weeds. However, avoid using too much mulch, as this can slow the spread of the plants.

Every other year, the plants should be lifted and divided or transplanted to another area. This helps to rejuvenate the plants and prevent them from becoming overcrowded. When lifting the plants, shake them to remove as much soil as possible. This will stimulate the roots and encourage new growth.

Golden star plants are sometimes bothered by slugs and snails. To control these pests, use slug and snail bait. Be sure to read the label carefully to choose a product that is safe for use around children, pets, and wildlife.

Benefits of Golden Star Plants

Golden star plants offer a number of benefits, including:

Continuous blooming from spring until autumn
Bright yellow-gold flowers that add a cheerful touch to any landscape
Low maintenance requirements
Tolerance for a variety of soil types
Ability to spread quickly and fill in bare areas
Resistance to pests and diseases

Conclusion

Golden star plants are a versatile and easy-care ground cover that is perfect for a variety of landscaping needs. They are a low-maintenance choice that will add beauty and interest to your yard for years to come.

Vegetable Gardening

Growing Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas: A Sweet and Easy-to-Grow Treat for Your Garden

by Gregory April 19, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas: A Sweet and Easy-to-Grow Treat

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-grow pea plant? Look no further than Dwarf Gray Sugar peas! These heirloom peas are known for their plump, tender pods and sweet flavor. They’re also heat and cold tolerant, making them a great choice for gardeners in a variety of climates.

Growing Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas are bushy plants that grow to be about 2-3 feet tall. They have lovely purple blossoms and produce small pods that are filled with sweet, delicious peas. These peas can be eaten raw, steamed, or stir-fried. The reddish lavender flowers are also edible and can be used to add a pop of color to salads.

Planting Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas prefer cool weather and can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. You can also plant a later crop about two months before the last frost. Peas prefer fertile, well-drained soil. Sandy soils work best. Check your soil pH and adjust it to above 6.0 if necessary. Dig in a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure a few days before planting. You can also work in a handful of general-purpose fertilizer.

To plant Dwarf Gray Sugar peas, direct sow the seeds into the prepared garden plot. Space the seeds 2-3 inches apart and cover them with about an inch of soil. Rows should be 16-18 inches apart. The peas will sprout in about a week.

Caring for Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas are easy to care for. They require regular watering, especially when they are blooming. Water the plants early in the day or use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system so they have time to dry before dusk.

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas also benefit from a thin layer of mulch. Mulch helps to keep weeds in check and prevents the soil from becoming too dry.

A trellis is not absolutely necessary for Dwarf Gray Sugar peas, but it will keep the vines from sprawling on the ground and make the peas easier to pick.

Harvesting Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas are ready to harvest about 70 days after planting. Pick the peas every few days, beginning when the pods begin to fill out. Don’t wait until the pods get too fat or they will lose their tenderness. If the peas grow too large for eating whole, you can remove the shells and eat them like regular garden peas.

Tips for Growing Dwarf Gray Sugar Peas

Plant Dwarf Gray Sugar peas in well-drained soil.
Water the plants regularly, especially when they are blooming.
Mulch around the plants to help keep weeds in check and retain moisture.
A trellis is not necessary, but it can make the peas easier to pick.
Pick the peas every few days when the pods are full but still tender.

Conclusion

Dwarf Gray Sugar peas are a delicious and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their sweet flavor and adaptability to a variety of climates, these peas are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Grasses

Overdam Feather Reed Grass: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Care

by Donna April 16, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Overdam Feather Reed Grass: A Guide for Gardeners

Introduction

Overdam feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’) is a beautiful ornamental grass that adds interest and texture to any garden. It’s a variegated variety of feather reed grass, known for its attractive, striped blades of bright green and white. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for Overdam grass.

What is Overdam Feather Reed Grass?

Overdam feather reed grass is a naturally occurring hybrid between Asian and European species of grass. It’s a cool-season grass, meaning it grows best in spring and fall. It’s hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9.

Growing Conditions

Overdam grass prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hotter areas. It grows well in most soil conditions, even clay, which sets it apart from many other ornamental grasses. It likes moist to wet soil.

Appearance

The foliage of Overdam grass is bright to light green, with borders that are white to cream-colored. It grows in a clumping pattern, reaching 1.5 to 2 feet in both height and spread. In the summer, it puts up stunning flower and seed plumes that are golden in color and can reach 6 feet in height.

Benefits of Growing Overdam Grass

Easy to grow and low maintenance
Adds interesting shades of green and white to the garden
Provides stunning height, texture, and color with its flower and seed stalks
Sterile seeds, so there’s no danger of unwanted spreading

How to Grow Overdam Grass

Growing Overdam grass is easy. Here are a few tips:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
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 deeply after planting.
Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Overdam Grass Care

Overdam grass is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require some basic care:

Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Cut back the foliage in late winter to make way for new spring growth.

Companion Plants for Overdam Grass

Overdam grass pairs well with a variety of other plants, including:

Perennials with colorful flowers, such as daylilies or coneflowers
Shrubs with interesting foliage, such as Japanese maple or smoke bush
Other ornamental grasses, such as blue fescue or maiden grass

Conclusion

Overdam feather reed grass is a beautiful and easy-to-grow ornamental grass that can add interest and texture to any garden. With its variegated blades, stunning flower and seed plumes, and low-maintenance nature, it’s a great choice for both experienced and beginner gardeners alike.

Gardening

Clivia: The Easy-to-Grow Houseplant That Will Brighten Your Home

by Gregory February 15, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Clivia: The Easy-to-Grow Houseplant That Will Brighten Your Home

Clivia is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for houseplant that is perfect for beginners. It is a member of the lily family and is native to South Africa. Clivia is known for its attractive evergreen leaves and showy flowers.

Characteristics of Clivia

Clivia has long, strap-like leaves that are a deep green color. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and are typically orange, but yellow varieties also exist. Clivia blooms in the winter and spring, and the flowers can last for several weeks.

How to Grow Clivia

Clivia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. Clivia can tolerate some neglect, but it will grow best if it is watered regularly and fertilized monthly during the growing season.

Propagation

Clivia can be propagated by seed or division. Seed propagation is a bit challenging, and it can take several years for a seedling to mature and bloom. Division is a more reliable method of propagation, and it can be done in the spring or fall.

Dividing Clivia

To divide Clivia, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots. Each division should have at least three or four leaves and a healthy root system. Repot the divisions in fresh potting mix and water them well.

Getting Amaryllis to Rebloom

Amaryllis is another popular houseplant that is known for its showy flowers. Amaryllis bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors in the winter, and they will often rebloom the following year. To get an Amaryllis bulb to rebloom, plant it in a pot with well-drained soil and place it in a sunny location. Water the bulb regularly and fertilize it monthly during the growing season.

Troubleshooting

Why is my Clivia not blooming?

Clivia needs a cool period in the fall in order to bloom. If your Clivia is not blooming, it may not be getting enough cold exposure. Try moving it to a cooler location for a few weeks.

Why are my Clivia leaves turning yellow?

Clivia leaves can turn yellow for a variety of reasons, including sunburn, overwatering, or underwatering. If your Clivia leaves are turning yellow, check the soil moisture and make sure the plant is getting enough light.

Tips for Growing Clivia

Clivia prefers bright, indirect light.
Water Clivia regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilize Clivia monthly during the growing season.
Clivia can be propagated by seed or division.
Clivia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.

With proper care, Clivia will thrive for many years and bring beauty to your home.

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