Home Tags Posts tagged with "Gardening With Style"
Tag:

Gardening With Style

Gardening

How to Grow a Larch Tree (Larix decidua): A Comprehensive Guide

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow a Larch Tree (Larix decidua)

Introduction

A larch tree is a tall conifer that is perfect for large gardens and woodland areas. It is one of the few types of deciduous conifers, meaning it loses its leaves in the fall. Larch trees are native to Europe and were introduced to Britain in the early 17th century.

Benefits of Larch Trees

Larch trees are valuable for a number of reasons. They provide food for wildlife, including seed-eating birds, squirrels, and mice. The deeply fissured bark provides shelter for insects, and several species of moth caterpillars feed on the foliage.

How to Identify a Larch Tree

Larch trees have slender needle-like leaves that are 2-4 cm long. The leaves are bright green when they first emerge in the spring, and they turn mid-green in the summer. In the fall, the leaves turn gold before falling off the tree. The small cones are green, pink, and white when they are young, and they mature to brown as the year advances.

Planting a Larch Tree

The best time to plant a larch tree is during the dormant season, from November to March. Larch trees can grow in a variety of soils, but they prefer well-drained soil. Avoid planting larch trees in areas that are prone to waterlogging or hot, dry conditions.

Caring for a Larch Tree

Larch trees are relatively easy to care for. Water them regularly, especially during the first two years after planting. Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Larch trees do not need to be pruned, but you can remove any dead or diseased branches as needed.

Pests and Diseases

Larch trees can be affected by a number of pests and diseases, including larch canker and larch bark beetle. The most serious disease is Phytopthora ramorum, which can also spread to other tree species, including oak. Symptoms of Phytopthora ramorum include shedding of the needles, bleeding cankers on the main trunk, and overall poor health. Affected trees should be destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.

Conclusion

Larch trees are beautiful and valuable trees that are perfect for large gardens and woodland areas. They are easy to care for and provide a number of benefits for wildlife. If you are looking for a low-maintenance tree that will add beauty and interest to your landscape, a larch tree is a great option.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

How to Take Hydrangea Cuttings: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Take Hydrangea Cuttings: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Hydrangeas are beautiful, flowering shrubs that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. But did you know that you can easily propagate hydrangeas from cuttings? It’s a great way to get new plants for free and share your favorites with friends and family.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to take hydrangea cuttings. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right time of year to take cuttings to caring for your new plants.

The Best Time to Take Hydrangea Cuttings

The best time to take hydrangea cuttings is in late summer, when the stems are semi-ripe. This means that they are from the current season’s growth but are old enough to have a woody base. The woody base will help to prevent the cuttings from rotting when you insert them into the soil.

Choosing Healthy Hydrangea Shoots

When selecting hydrangea shoots for cuttings, choose healthy, non-flowering shoots that are 10-15 cm long. They should have at least two sets of leaves below the top set of leaves.

Trimming Hydrangea Cuttings

To trim hydrangea cuttings, use a sharp knife or secateurs to make a clean cut below a node. A node is the point on the stem where a leaf or bud is attached.

Once you have made the cut, remove the lower set of leaves from the cutting. This will help to reduce water loss and stress on the cutting.

Cutting Hydrangea Leaves in Half

To further reduce water loss and stress, you can cut each hydrangea leaf in half. This will help the cutting to focus its energy on rooting.

Inserting Hydrangea Cuttings into Soil

Fill a small pot with gritty propagation compost. Make a hole in the compost and insert the cutting, firming the soil around it.

Water the cutting well and place it in a propagator to retain moisture. Keep the propagator in a warm, bright place.

Caring for Your Hydrangea Cuttings

Your hydrangea cuttings will typically root within six weeks. Once they have rooted, you can remove them from the propagator and pot them up into individual pots.

Continue to water and fertilize your hydrangea cuttings regularly. They should be ready to plant in the garden in the spring.

Tips for Success

  • Use sharp tools to make clean cuts.
  • Remove the lower leaves from the cuttings to reduce water loss.
  • Cut each leaf in half to further reduce stress.
  • Insert the cuttings into gritty compost to prevent rotting.
  • Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright place.
  • Be patient! It can take several weeks for hydrangea cuttings to root.

With a little care and patience, you can easily propagate hydrangeas from cuttings. It’s a great way to get new plants for free and share your favorites with others.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

Donkey Gloves Review: Comfort, Durability, and Value for Everyday Gardening

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Donkey Gloves: A Comprehensive Review for Gardeners

Introduction

Donkey Gloves are a popular choice among gardeners for their comfort, durability, and affordability. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features, benefits, and drawbacks of these gloves to help you decide if they’re the right choice for your gardening needs.

Comfort and Fit

Donkey Gloves are designed to fit snugly, providing a secure grip while still allowing for dexterity. The elasticated back and stretchy wrist cuff make them easy to get on and off, and they come in a range of sizes to accommodate most gardeners. The soft suede-padded palm and thumb gusset offer extra protection and comfort, especially during delicate tasks like pruning.

Materials and Durability

The Donkey Gloves are made with a breathable polyester back and a water-resistant suede palm. The materials feel sturdy and well-made, and the gloves are designed to withstand everyday gardening tasks. However, it’s important to note that the gloves are not waterproof or lined, so they may not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions.

Value for Money

Donkey Gloves are mid-priced, offering a good balance between quality and affordability. They’re a great option for gardeners who want a well-designed and durable pair of gloves without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Snug fit for secure grip and dexterity
  • Breathable and elasticated for comfort
  • Soft suede palm for extra protection
  • Water-resistant palm for moisture resistance
  • Mid-priced and good value for money

Cons

  • Not waterproof or lined
  • Moisture can soak through the back of the glove

Who Are Donkey Gloves Best For?

Donkey Gloves are ideal for everyday gardening tasks, including pruning, digging, clearing, and lifting. They’re unisex and come in a range of sizes to fit most gardeners. The stretchy wrist cuff makes them easy to get on and off, and there’s a helpful sizing guide on the website to ensure you choose the right pair.

Alternative Gardening Glove Options

If Donkey Gloves don’t meet your specific needs, there are several other highly rated gardening gloves available. Some popular alternatives include:

  • GripMaster Garden Gloves: Known for their exceptional grip and durability
  • Wells Lamont Work Gloves: Affordable and versatile gloves for a variety of gardening tasks
  • Mechanix Wear FastFit Gloves: Lightweight and breathable gloves with a secure fit
  • Atlas Nitrile Gloves: Waterproof and puncture-resistant gloves for heavy-duty gardening

Conclusion

Donkey Gloves are a well-designed and affordable option for gardeners who want a comfortable and durable pair of gloves for everyday use. They offer a snug fit, good grip, and extra protection for the palm, making them ideal for a variety of gardening tasks. However, it’s important to note that they’re not waterproof or lined, so they may not be suitable for cold or wet weather conditions.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Wildlife Gardening

Common Lizards in Your Garden: How to Attract and Support Them

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Common Lizards in Your Garden

What are Common Lizards?

Common lizards are small reptiles that love to bask in the sun on walls and logs. They can be found in forests, grasslands, and even gardens. They’re usually green-brown with spots or stripes and can grow up to 6 inches long. Male lizards have bright yellow or orange undersides, while females have plain and paler bellies.

Unique Features of Common Lizards

Unlike most lizards, female common lizards give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. They can have up to 11 babies at a time! They also have a special ability to change color to match their surroundings.

Creating a Lizard-Friendly Garden

If you want to attract lizards to your garden, you can create the perfect habitat for them by:

  • Letting areas of grass grow long for shelter
  • Building a log pile or placing stones for hiding spots
  • Planting native plants like primroses and forget-me-nots to provide food

Importance of Common Lizards

Common lizards play an important role in the ecosystem by eating insects. They’re also a food source for other animals like birds and snakes. By supporting common lizards in your garden, you’re helping to create a healthy and balanced environment.

Fun Fact:

Common lizards are cold-blooded, which means they need to warm up in the sun before they can hunt for food.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

Boxwood Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing, Planting, and Avoiding Bad Smells

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Boxwood Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide

Boxwood shrubs (Buxus spp.) are popular ornamental plants known for their deep green leaves and compact, round form. They are versatile and can be used for hedges, borders, topiary, and container gardening. However, some gardeners have reported an unpleasant odor emanating from certain boxwood varieties, particularly the English boxwood (Buxus sempervirens). This article delves into the causes of boxwood odor, provides tips on how to avoid it, and suggests alternative plants that can be used in place of boxwood shrubs.

What Causes Boxwood Shrubs to Smell?

The unpleasant odor associated with some boxwood shrubs is caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the plant’s flowers. These VOCs can have a strong, cat urine-like smell. The English boxwood is particularly prone to producing these VOCs, especially during the late spring when the plant is in bloom.

How to Avoid Smelly Boxwood Shrubs

If you are concerned about the potential for smelly boxwood shrubs, there are several steps you can take to avoid the problem:

  • Choose non-odorous varieties: Not all boxwood varieties produce a strong odor. Some less odorous options include Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla), Asian boxwood (Buxus sinica), and Little Leaf boxwood (Buxus sinica var insularis).
  • Avoid planting near frequently used areas: If you do decide to plant boxwood shrubs, avoid placing them near your front door or other areas where you spend a lot of time. This will help to minimize your exposure to any potential odors.
  • Consider alternative plants: If you are looking for an alternative to boxwood shrubs, there are several other dense, evergreen plants that can be used for hedging and other purposes. Some good options include myrtles (Myrtis spp.) and hollies (Ilex spp.).

What to Do if Your Boxwood Shrubs Smell

If you already have boxwood shrubs that are producing an unpleasant odor, there are a few things you can do to try to reduce the smell:

  • Prune the flowers: Pruning the flowers off of the boxwood shrubs can help to reduce the production of VOCs and thus the intensity of the odor.
  • Water the shrubs regularly: Keeping the boxwood shrubs well-watered can help to flush out the VOCs and reduce the odor.
  • Use a deodorizing spray: There are a number of commercial deodorizing sprays available that can be used to help mask the smell of boxwood shrubs.

Conclusion

Boxwood shrubs are a popular choice for gardeners due to their versatility and attractive appearance. However, some varieties of boxwood can produce an unpleasant odor. By choosing non-odorous varieties, planting the shrubs away from frequently used areas, and taking steps to reduce the production of VOCs, you can avoid the problem of smelly boxwood shrubs and enjoy the beauty of these plants in your garden.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

How to Grow a Coffee Plant Indoors: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow a Coffee Plant Indoors

Coffee plants are not only beautiful houseplants, but they can also produce coffee beans! Growing coffee plants indoors is a fun and rewarding experience, and it’s easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Choosing the Right Coffee Plant

Not all coffee plants are created equal. Some varieties are better suited for indoor growing than others. When choosing a coffee plant, look for a variety that is known for being easy to grow and hardy. Some good options include:

  • Arabica
  • Robusta
  • Liberica

Providing the Right Environment

Coffee plants need bright, indirect light. This means that they should be placed near a window but not directly in the window itself. They also cannot take temperatures below freezing and will not do well in temperatures that stay consistently below 65 degrees F. (18 C.). Keep them away from drafts in the winter.

The soil for your coffee plant should be well-draining and slightly acidic. You can purchase a potting mix specifically designed for coffee plants, or you can make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Watering and Fertilizing

Coffee plants need to be watered regularly, but they should not be allowed to sit in soggy soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

Fertilize your coffee plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning

Coffee plants can grow to be quite large, so it’s important to prune them regularly to keep them under control. The best time to prune is in early spring. When pruning, remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Harvesting Coffee Beans

If you provide your coffee plant with the right care, it will eventually flower and produce coffee beans. However, it can take three to five years for a coffee plant to mature and produce beans.

Once your coffee plant has flowered, you will need to hand pollinate the flowers in order to produce berries. To do this, use a small brush to transfer pollen from the male flowers to the female flowers.

The berries will ripen in about six to eight weeks. When they are ripe, they will be dark red or purple in color. You can then harvest the berries and remove the coffee beans from inside.

Troubleshooting

If you are having problems with your coffee plant, here are a few things to check:

  • Leaves are turning yellow: This could be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
  • Leaves are dropping: This could be a sign of too much or too little light. Move your plant to a brighter or shadier location.
  • Plant is not flowering: This could be a sign that your plant is not getting enough nutrients. Fertilize your plant more regularly.

With a little care and attention, your coffee plant will thrive and produce delicious coffee beans for years to come.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

Best Gardening Gloves: The Ultimate Guide for Every Gardener

by Donna
written by Donna 4 minutes read

Gardening Gloves: The Ultimate Guide for Every Gardener

Introduction

Gardening gloves are an essential tool for any gardener, protecting your hands from dirt, thorns, and other hazards. But with so many different types of gloves on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are right for you. This guide will help you choose the best gardening gloves for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Types of Gardening Gloves

Gardening gloves come in three main types: light duty, medium duty, and heavy duty.

  • Light duty gloves are perfect for light tasks like weeding and potting. They’re usually made of thin, breathable materials like cotton or bamboo.
  • Medium duty gloves are more durable than light duty gloves, and they offer more protection from thorns and other sharp objects. They’re a good choice for general gardening tasks like pruning and digging.
  • Heavy duty gloves are the most durable type of gardening glove. They’re made of thick, tough materials like leather or canvas, and they offer the most protection from thorns, sharp objects, and chemicals.

Materials

Gardening gloves are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Leather is a durable, water-resistant material that provides good protection from thorns and sharp objects. However, leather gloves can be expensive and they can be hot to wear in warm weather.
  • Cotton is a soft, breathable material that’s comfortable to wear. However, cotton gloves are not very durable and they can absorb water, making them less effective in wet conditions.
  • Bamboo is a sustainable, eco-friendly material that’s soft, breathable, and durable. Bamboo gloves are a good choice for people who are looking for an alternative to leather or cotton gloves.
  • Latex is a synthetic material that provides good grip and water resistance. However, latex gloves can be allergic to some people.
  • Nitrile is a synthetic material that’s similar to latex, but it’s less likely to cause allergies. Nitrile gloves are a good choice for people who are allergic to latex.

Features to Look For

When choosing gardening gloves, there are a few key features to look for:

  • Fit: Gloves should fit snugly but not too tightly. They should allow you to move your fingers and hands freely.
  • Grip: Gloves should have a good grip, especially if you’ll be using them for tasks like pruning or digging.
  • Durability: Gloves should be made of durable materials that can withstand wear and tear.
  • Breathability: Gloves should be made of breathable materials to keep your hands cool and comfortable.
  • Water resistance: Gloves should be water-resistant or waterproof if you’ll be using them in wet conditions.

Best Gardening Gloves for Different Needs

The best gardening gloves for you will depend on your individual needs. Here are a few recommendations for different types of gardeners:

  • Best gardening gloves for beginners: Light duty gloves made of cotton or bamboo are a good choice for beginners. They’re comfortable to wear, breathable, and affordable.
  • Best gardening gloves for women: Gardening gloves that are specifically designed for women’s hands are a good choice for women. They’re usually smaller and narrower than men’s gloves, and they may have features like adjustable straps and touch screen fingers.
  • Best gardening gloves for men: Gardening gloves that are specifically designed for men’s hands are a good choice for men. They’re usually larger and wider than women’s gloves, and they may have features like reinforced palms and extra padding.
  • Best gardening gloves for kids: Gardening gloves that are specifically designed for kids are a good choice for kids. They’re usually smaller than adult gloves, and they may have features like fun colors and designs.
  • Best gardening gloves for people with allergies: Gardening gloves made of nitrile or bamboo are a good choice for people with allergies. Nitrile is a synthetic material that’s less likely to cause allergies than latex, and bamboo is a natural material that’s hypoallergenic.

Conclusion

Gardening gloves are an essential tool for any gardener. By choosing the right gloves for your needs, you can protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and other hazards while you enjoy your favorite hobby.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
March Gardening

Our Favorite March Plants: A Guide to Adding Color to Your Spring Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 4 minutes read

Our Favorite March Plants

Introduction

Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time to start thinking about adding some color to your garden. Here are some of our favorite plants that are looking their best in March.

Daffodils

Daffodils are a classic sign of spring. They’re easy to grow and come in a wide range of colors and sizes. You can plant them in pots or in the ground, and they’ll bloom for weeks on end.

Bellis Daisies

Bellis daisies are another cheerful addition to March gardens. They’re hardy perennials that will bloom in spring and autumn. Their vibrant pink, red, and white flowers are sure to brighten up any space.

Primula

Primroses are a type of flowering plant that comes in a variety of colors. They’re perfect for adding a touch of color to shady areas of your garden. Primroses are also known for their delicate fragrance.

Heather

Heather is a low-growing shrub that produces masses of tiny flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. It’s a popular choice for rock gardens and other dry areas.

Almond Tree

Almond trees are a beautiful addition to any garden. They produce clusters of delicate pink flowers in early spring. Almond trees prefer milder climates and need to be planted in a sunny location.

Chrysosplenium Macrophyllum

Also known as giant golden saxifrage, this plant is perfect for brightening up shady corners. Its large, lush leaves form a ground-covering carpet, and its unique green-white umbel-like flowers studded with pink stamens add a touch of elegance.

Narcissus ‘Tête-à-Tête’

This miniature daffodil is a great choice for growing in pots or at the front of borders. It’s easy to grow and produces cheerful yellow flowers that are sure to brighten up your day.

Chaenomeles

Flowering quinces are a welcome burst of color in early spring. Their chunky pink flowers are held on bare stems, and they’re a great choice for informal hedges or training up a wall.

Holly

Holly is an evergreen shrub that’s famous for its red berries in autumn and winter. But it’s also worth enjoying in early spring, when its spiky elliptical leaves stand out against the bare branches of deciduous trees.

Primula Pretty Polly

This giant, double polyanthus is a real showstopper. It produces up to 15 flowers on a single stem, in a range of chic colors. It’s perfect for adding a touch of drama to your garden.

Clematis ‘Apple Blossom’

This evergreen climber produces a mass of small, pink-blushed flowers in early spring. It’s a vigorous grower and can quickly cover a fence or trellis.

Leucojum Aestivum

Snowflakes are a beautiful addition to the spring garden. They’re bigger than snowdrops and have green markings on their flowers. Snowflakes need moist, bog-like soil to thrive.

Narcissus Pseudonarcissus

Our native daffodil is a symbol of spring. It looks wonderful naturalized in grass, as it would grow in the wild. Daffodils are easy to grow and will bloom for weeks on end.

Tips for Choosing and Growing March Plants

When choosing plants for your March garden, consider the following tips:

  • Choose plants that are suited to your climate and soil conditions.
  • Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Fertilize your plants monthly to encourage growth and flowering.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

With a little care and attention, your March garden will be a riot of color and beauty.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fruit and Vegetable Gardening

How to Store Apples Long Term: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

How to Store Apples

Harvesting and Storing Tips

When harvesting apples, handle them with care to avoid bruises or cuts. Keep the apple stalk intact, as this helps prevent rotting. Only store unblemished apples, as damaged ones won’t keep well.

Short-Term Storage (Up to a Week)

  • Place a few apples in a clear freezer bag or paper bag and store in the fridge.
  • Don’t let the apples freeze, as this can damage them.

Long-Term Storage (Over Winter)

  • Wrap each apple in a single sheet of newspaper.
  • Place the apples in single layers on a tray or in an apple rack.
  • Store in a cool and humid spot, such as an unheated basement, cellar, or unheated garage.
  • Check the apples regularly for any signs of rot.

Best Apple Varieties for Storage

  • Sweet varieties: Store for only a few weeks.
  • Tart varieties: Can be stored all winter long.
  • Early varieties: Best eaten within a fortnight of harvesting.
  • Late varieties: Need to ripen in storage for four to five weeks and will then last throughout the winter.

Additional Tips

  • Choose an apple variety that is suitable for long-term storage.
  • Store home-grown apples only, as supermarket apples have already been in storage.
  • If you need help choosing an apple variety or have questions about storage, consult a guide or expert.
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gardening

10 Plants You Can’t Kill: Indestructible Plants for Your Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Plants You Can’t Kill: 10 Indestructible Plants for Your Garden

Introduction

Do you struggle to keep plants alive? Don’t worry! There are plenty of plants that are easy to care for and will thrive even if you forget to water or fertilize them. These “indestructible” plants are perfect for beginner gardeners or those who don’t have a lot of time to spend on gardening.

What Makes a Plant Indestructible?

Indestructible plants are typically vigorous, trouble-free, and disease-resistant. They can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including drought, heat, cold, and poor soil. They also tend to have a strong root system that helps them to anchor themselves in the ground and absorb nutrients.

10 Plants You Can’t Kill

Here are 10 of the best indestructible plants for your garden:

  • Geraniums are a classic choice for beginner gardeners. They come in a variety of colors and bloom all summer long.
  • Euonymus is an evergreen shrub that is perfect for adding color and interest to your landscape. It is also very tolerant of drought and heat.
  • Bracchyglottis is a low-maintenance plant that produces bright yellow daisy flowers. It is a great choice for ground cover or as a border plant.
  • Penstemon is a herbaceous perennial that produces tall spires of foxglove-like flowers. It is a good choice for attracting pollinators to your garden.
  • Astrantia is a shade-loving plant that produces star-shaped flowers. It is a great choice for adding color to shady areas of your garden.
  • Choisya is an evergreen shrub that is known for its fragrant white flowers. It is a good choice for hedges or screens.
  • Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can add a dramatic statement to your garden. It is a good choice for privacy screens or windbreaks.
  • Epimedium is a ground cover plant that produces heart-shaped leaves and delicate flowers. It is a good choice for shady areas of your garden.
  • Sarcococca is an evergreen shrub that produces fragrant white flowers in the winter. It is a good choice for adding winter interest to your garden.
  • Primroses are a small, flowering plant that is a harbinger of spring. They are a good choice for adding color to your garden in early spring.

Tips for Growing Indestructible Plants

Even indestructible plants need some basic care to thrive. Here are a few tips:

  • Choose the right plant for the right location. Make sure to consider the amount of sunlight, soil type, and drainage before planting.
  • 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.

With a little care, your indestructible plants will thrive for years to come!

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More