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Gardening

Mushroom Compost: A Complete Guide for Gardeners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Mushroom Compost: A Guide for Gardeners

What is Mushroom Compost?

Mushroom compost is a byproduct of the mushroom industry. It’s made from a mixture of composted straw and manure that has been used to grow mushrooms. After the mushrooms are harvested, the compost is sterilized to kill any pests or diseases.

Benefits of Mushroom Compost

Mushroom compost is a great soil conditioner and mulch. It’s high in organic matter, which improves the structure and aeration of soil. It also helps the soil retain moisture and drain better.

Mushroom compost also provides nutrients that plants need to grow. It’s especially good for vegetables, as it helps prevent club root in brassicas and blossom end rot in tomatoes.

Where to Use Mushroom Compost

Mushroom compost can be used as a general mulch on flower beds, shrub borders, and around trees. It can also be used to improve waterlogged or clay soils.

Avoid using mushroom compost on acid-loving plants, such as rhododendrons and azaleas, as it can make it difficult for them to absorb nutrients.

When to Use Mushroom Compost

Mushroom compost should be applied in the spring as a mulch or soil conditioner. Spread a 5cm layer over the surface of the soil and leave it for a week before sowing seeds.

Buying Mushroom Compost

Spent mushroom compost is available from garden centers and online retailers. Make sure you’re buying compost that has already been used for growing mushrooms.

Using Mushroom Compost in Containers

Mushroom compost can be used to grow plants in containers, but it should be mixed with garden soil in a ratio of 1:3 to reduce the concentration of soluble salts.

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Fruit Tree Care

Apricot Rust Fungus: A Comprehensive Guide for Home Orchard Management

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Apricot Rust Fungus: A Common Threat to Home Orchards

Apricot trees are a popular choice for home orchards, prized for their sweet and juicy golden fruit. However, these trees can be susceptible to a common disease known as apricot rust fungus. This fungal infection can cause significant damage to apricot trees, affecting their growth, fruit production, and overall health.

Symptoms of Apricot Rust Fungus

Rust fungus on apricot trees is caused by a fungus called Tranzschelia discolor. The first signs of infection are usually visible on the underside of the leaves, where mahogany-colored blisters appear. Corresponding yellow splotches develop on the upper leaf surface.

As the disease progresses, the blisters turn black and the leaves drop prematurely. This can lead to defoliation, which weakens the tree and reduces its ability to produce fruit. In severe cases, apricot rust fungus can cause premature leaf drop, leaving the tree bare earlier than normal.

Impact of Apricot Rust Fungus

While apricot rust fungus doesn’t typically kill trees outright, it can have a significant impact on their health and productivity. Even minor infestations can stunt tree growth and reduce fruit production. Severe infestations can cause premature leaf drop, weakening the tree and making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests.

Controlling Apricot Rust Fungus

The best way to manage apricot rust fungus is through preventive measures. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Promote Good Air Circulation: Rust fungus thrives in moist, cool environments. Plant apricot trees in an area with plenty of sunlight and space them apart to allow for air circulation.
  • Prune for Sunlight Exposure: Prune your apricot trees to remove any branches that block sunlight from reaching the leaves. This will help to reduce moisture and create an unfavorable environment for the fungus.
  • Remove Fallen Foliage: Fallen leaves can harbor the fungus. Regularly rake up and dispose of fallen foliage to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Choose Rust-Resistant Cultivars: When planting new apricot trees, choose cultivars that are resistant to rust fungus. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of infection.

Apricot Rust Treatment

If apricot rust fungus becomes a recurring problem, you may need to consider using a fungicide specifically designed for apricot rust. Follow the label directions carefully and apply the fungicide at the recommended intervals throughout the growing season.

It’s important to note that chemical controls should only be used as a last resort. Organic approaches are generally safer and more environmentally friendly. Consider consulting with a gardening expert or arborist for guidance on organic rust management strategies.

Conclusion

Apricot rust fungus is a common disease that can affect apricot trees in home orchards. By understanding the symptoms, impact, and control measures for this disease, you can protect your trees and ensure a healthy and productive harvest.

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Vegetable Gardening

Companion Planting for Beginners: Grow a Healthy, Productive Garden Naturally

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Companion Planting: A Guide for Beginners

What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a natural way to keep your garden healthy and productive. It involves growing different plants together that help each other grow better. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can help deter whiteflies, which are pests that can damage tomato plants.

Benefits of Companion Planting

Companion planting has many benefits, including:

  • Improved crop yields
  • Reduced pests and diseases
  • Increased pollination
  • Enhanced flavor

Common Companion Plant Combinations

Here are some common companion plant combinations:

  • Mint and brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower): Mint’s strong scent deters flea beetles, which can damage brassicas.
  • Marigolds and tomatoes: Marigolds’ strong scent deters whiteflies, which can damage tomatoes.
  • Carrots and leeks: Carrots’ strong scent deters leek moths, while leeks’ scent deters carrot flies.
  • Lavender with carrots and leeks: Lavender attracts pollinators, which can help increase yields.
  • Wormwood and beans: Wormwood’s strong scent deters aphids, which can damage beans.
  • Calendula and beans: Calendula’s flowers attract aphids away from beans, and its strong scent attracts beneficial insects that prey on aphids.
  • Sage and brassicas: Sage’s strong scent confuses pests of brassicas, such as flea beetles.
  • Borage and strawberries: Borage’s flowers attract pollinators, which can help improve strawberry flavor.
  • Thyme and roses: Thyme’s strong scent deters blackfly, which can damage roses.
  • Calendula and courgettes: Calendula’s flowers attract pollinators, which can help increase courgette pollination.

Plants to Avoid in Companion Planting

There are a few plant combinations that you should avoid, such as:

  • Tall plants next to short plants (tall plants will block sunlight)
  • Thirsty plants next to drought-tolerant plants (one plant will get too much or too little water)
  • Plants that release chemicals that inhibit growth of other plants (known as allelopathy)

Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. By following the tips in this article, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that is full of healthy plants.

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Gardening

Wormeries: A Beginner’s Guide to Composting with Worms

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Wormeries: A Natural Way to Compost and Fertilize Your Garden

Introduction

Wormeries are a great way to compost kitchen and garden waste and turn it into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants. They are easy to use and maintain, and they can help you reduce your environmental impact.

How Do Wormeries Work?

Wormeries are home to special types of worms called composting worms. These worms eat kitchen waste and other organic materials and break them down into compost. The compost is a nutrient-rich material that can be used to fertilize your plants.

Wormeries have a sump at the bottom that collects excess liquid. This liquid, called leachate, can be diluted and used as a liquid fertilizer.

Benefits of Using a Wormery

There are many benefits to using a wormery, including:

  • Reduces your environmental impact by diverting organic waste from landfills.
  • Creates nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize your plants.
  • Helps to aerate your soil and improve drainage.
  • Can be used to compost a variety of organic materials, including kitchen waste, garden waste, and paper products.
  • Is a relatively low-maintenance way to compost.

Choosing the Right Wormery

There are many different types of wormeries available, so it is important to choose one that is right for your needs. Consider the following factors when choosing a wormery:

  • Size: The size of the wormery will depend on the amount of waste you generate.
  • Type: There are two main types of wormeries: stacking wormeries and single-chamber wormeries. Stacking wormeries are made up of multiple trays that are stacked on top of each other. Single-chamber wormeries are made up of one large chamber.
  • Features: Some wormeries come with additional features, such as a lid, a tap for draining leachate, and a thermometer.

Using Your Wormery

Once you have chosen a wormery, it is important to set it up properly and use it correctly. Here are some tips for using your wormery:

  • Set up your wormery in a shaded, sheltered spot. The ideal temperature for a wormery is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Add a layer of bedding to the bottom of the wormery. This will help to absorb moisture and provide a place for the worms to live.
  • Add kitchen waste and other organic materials to the wormery regularly. Do not add meat, fish, dairy products, or tough woodier plant material.
  • Keep the wormery moist but not soggy. Water the wormery regularly, but do not overwater it.
  • Harvest the compost when it is ready. Compost is ready to harvest when it is dark and crumbly.

Conclusion

Wormeries are a great way to compost your kitchen and garden waste and create nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants. They are easy to use and maintain, and they can help you reduce your environmental impact.

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Vegetable Gardening

Cabbageworms: A Common Pest in Cabbage Gardens: Identification, Control, and Prevention

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Cabbageworms: A Common Pest in Cabbage Gardens

Cabbageworms are the larvae of cabbage moths and are one of the most common pests in cabbage gardens. These pests can cause serious damage to both young and mature cabbage plants, and can even prevent head formation. Therefore, early detection and control is essential for protecting your cabbage crop.

Types of Cabbageworms

There are several different types of cabbageworms that can infest cabbage plants. The most common types include:

  • Imported cabbageworm: This worm is velvety green with a narrow, light yellow stripe down its back. It tends to feed closer to the center of the plant.
  • Cross-Striped cabbageworm: This worm is bluish gray with numerous black stripes running crosswise. It also has a black and yellow stripe running along the length of its body. It feeds on all tender parts of the plant, but prefers buds.
  • Cabbage looper: This worm is light green with a pale white stripe down each side and two thin white stripes down its back. It moves in a looping motion, as it has no middle legs.
  • Diamondback moth larvae: These larvae are small, yellowish green, and have a forked tail. They feed on all plant parts, but prefer the buds of young plants.

Symptoms of Cabbageworm Damage

Cabbageworms can cause a variety of symptoms on cabbage plants, including:

  • Holes in leaves
  • Skeletonized leaves
  • Stuunted growth
  • Wilting
  • Head formation prevention

How to Control Cabbageworms

There are a variety of methods that can be used to control cabbageworms, including:

  • Insecticides: Insecticides can be effective in killing cabbageworms, but they should be used with caution, as they can also harm beneficial insects.
  • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Bt is a non-toxic, biological insecticide that is specifically targeted towards worms and caterpillars. It is safe for use on most garden vegetables and will not harm beneficial insects.
  • Neem oil: Neem oil is another safe and effective insecticide that can be used to control cabbageworms. It is also effective against many other pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
  • Organic controls: There are a number of organic controls that can be used to deter cabbage moths and prevent cabbageworm infestations, such as:
    • Growing red clover and white clover around cabbage plants
    • Planting strongly scented herbs, such as lavender, around cabbage plants
    • Using eggshells to deter cabbage moths

How to Prevent Cabbageworms

In addition to using control methods, there are a number of things you can do to prevent cabbageworm infestations in your garden, such as:

  • Inspect your plants regularly: Check your cabbage plants regularly for signs of cabbageworms or their damage.
  • Remove infested leaves: If you find any cabbageworms or their damage, remove the infested leaves immediately.
  • Use floating row covers: Floating row covers can be used to prevent cabbage moths from laying eggs on your plants.
  • Companion planting: Planting certain companion plants, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, can help to deter cabbage moths.

By following these tips, you can help to protect your cabbage plants from cabbageworms and ensure a bountiful harvest.

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Vegetable Gardening

Growing and Harvesting Asparagus: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Growing and Harvesting Asparagus: A Guide for Beginners

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easy to grow in your own garden. However, it does require a little extra care and attention, especially when it comes to preparing the asparagus beds for autumn and cutting the asparagus back.

When to Cut Asparagus Back

The best time to cut asparagus back is in the fall, after the first frost. This will help to prevent the asparagus beetle from overwintering in the bed and will also help to reduce the chances of disease and other pests.

To cut asparagus back, simply use a sharp knife or shears to cut the spears down to about 2 inches (5 cm) above the ground. Be sure to remove all of the foliage, as this will help to keep the bed clean and tidy.

Why You Should Cut Asparagus Back

There are several reasons why you should cut asparagus back in the fall. First, it will help to produce better quality spears the next year. Second, it will help to prevent the asparagus beetle from overwintering in the bed. Third, it will help to reduce the chances of disease and other pests.

Other Autumn Asparagus Care

Once you have cut the asparagus back, it is important to add several inches (10 cm) of mulch to the bed. This will help to smother the weeds and will also help to fertilize the bed for next year. Compost or well-rotted manure makes an excellent mulch for asparagus in autumn.

In addition to mulching, you should also water the asparagus bed deeply in the fall. This will help to protect the roots from the cold winter weather.

Growing Asparagus

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable, which means that it will come back year after year. It is best to start asparagus from crowns, which are small plants that are sold in nurseries and garden centers.

To plant asparagus crowns, dig a trench that is about 6 inches (15 cm) deep and 12 inches (30 cm) wide. Space the crowns about 18 inches (45 cm) apart in the trench. Cover the crowns with soil and water deeply.

Asparagus will take about 3 years to mature. Once it is mature, it will produce spears for 10-15 years.

Harvesting Asparagus

Asparagus spears are ready to harvest when they are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long. To harvest asparagus, simply snap the spears off at the base. Be sure to leave the rest of the plant intact, as it will continue to produce spears throughout the season.

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easy to grow in your own garden. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your asparagus plants are healthy and productive for many years to come.

Additional Tips for Growing Asparagus

  • Asparagus prefers well-drained soil that is high in organic matter.
  • Asparagus needs full sun to grow properly.
  • Asparagus is a heavy feeder, so it is important to fertilize it regularly.
  • Asparagus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, so it is important to monitor your plants closely and take steps to control any problems that arise.

With a little care and attention, you can grow beautiful and healthy asparagus in your own garden.

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Gardening Techniques

Compost vs. Humus: The Ultimate Guide to Soil Health and Plant Growth

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Compost vs. Humus: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Do you love gardening as much as you love solving mysteries? If so, then you’ll appreciate this article that unravels the mystery of compost and humus. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different. Let’s dig in and uncover the truth about these two essential gardening ingredients.

What is Compost?

Compost is like the “black gold” of gardening. It’s a rich, dark soil-like substance created by the breakdown of organic materials like food scraps and yard waste. When these materials decompose, they release nutrients that can be absorbed by plants.

Compost is considered “finished” when it looks like a dark, crumbly soil and you can no longer see the individual materials that went into it. However, even though it looks finished, it’s still not completely decomposed. Tiny organisms like bacteria and fungi are still working hard to break down the remaining materials.

What is Humus?

Humus is the final stage of decomposition. It’s a dark, spongy, carbon-rich substance that forms when all of the usable nutrients have been extracted from the organic matter by microorganisms. Humus is like the leftover “crumbs” from the decomposition feast.

It can take many years for compost to fully decompose into humus. But once it does, it becomes a highly stable and valuable addition to your garden soil.

Difference Between Humus and Compost

So, what’s the main difference between humus and compost? It’s all about the level of decomposition. Compost is still actively decomposing, while humus is the end product of decomposition.

Why is Humus Important?

Humus is like a superhero for your garden soil. It has amazing properties that make it essential for plant growth:

  • Water Retention: Humus can hold up to 90% of its weight in water, which helps soil retain moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering.
  • Nutrient Storage: Humus acts like a sponge, soaking up and holding onto essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Plants can then easily absorb these nutrients through their roots.
  • Soil Structure: Humus improves soil structure by making it looser and more crumbly. This allows for better air and water flow, which is crucial for healthy root development.

How to Create Humus in Your Garden

The best way to create humus in your garden is through composting. Here are some tips:

  • Use a variety of organic materials in your compost pile, including food scraps, yard waste, and paper products.
  • Keep your compost pile moist but not soggy.
  • Turn your compost pile regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.
  • Be patient! It takes time for compost to decompose into humus.

Conclusion

Now that you know the difference between humus and compost, you can make informed decisions about how to use these valuable materials in your garden. Remember, humus is the ultimate goal, but compost is an essential step along the way. By understanding the role of each in the decomposition process, you can create a thriving and healthy garden ecosystem.

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Gardening

Natural Gardening Solutions for Common Plant Problems

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Gardening Problems Solved Naturally

Pest and Disease Control

  • Vine Weevils: Use nematodes to control these pests in container plants.
  • Box Caterpillars: Spray plants with Top Buxus Xen Tari and hang up box moth traps.
  • Gooseberry Sawfly: Apply nematodes in May to prevent infestations.
  • Mildew: Keep plants well-watered and spray with diluted tomato feed.

Plant Care

  • Dieramas: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun and fertilize with gravel mulch.
  • Roses: Remove suckers (wild shoots) from grafted roses.
  • Acers: Protect from drying winds and sun, and keep soil moist.
  • Jasmine: Fertilize twice a year with rose fertilizer to encourage flowering.
  • Camellias: Repot in ericaceous compost and fertilize with diluted ericaceous liquid feed.

Diseases

  • Black Spot on Roses: Improve soil moisture and choose resistant varieties.
  • Leaf Browning on Camellias: Protect from sun damage and ensure well-drained soil.
  • Viburnum Tinus Branch Dieback: Prune affected stems and improve drainage.
  • Peach Leaf Curl: Cover trees with polythene in January and spray with organic foliar feed.

Other Problems

  • Cuckoo Spit: Remove with a jet of water. Avoid covering gooseberries with netting, as birds may help control pests.
  • Chocolate Spot on Broad Beans: Plant in full sun with good air circulation, and pinch out shoot tips to prevent infestations.
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Gardening

How to Till Soil by Hand: A Beginner’s Guide to Double Digging

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

How to Till Soil by Hand: A Beginner’s Guide to Double Digging

Tilling soil is an important part of gardening, but it can be hard work, especially if you don’t have a tiller. However, there is a way to till soil by hand that is less labor-intensive and actually better for your soil than using a machine. It’s called double digging.

What is Double Digging?

Double digging is a gardening technique that involves digging two trenches side by side and using the soil from the second trench to fill the first trench. This creates a deep, loose bed of soil that is perfect for planting.

Benefits of Double Digging

There are many benefits to double digging, including:

  • Prevents soil compaction: Machine tilling can compact soil, making it difficult for water and nutrients to penetrate. Double digging, on the other hand, loosens the soil deeply without compacting it.
  • Improves drainage: Double digging also helps to improve drainage by creating a loose, porous soil structure. This is important for preventing waterlogging, which can damage plant roots.
  • Encourages deeper roots: The deep, loose soil created by double digging encourages plant roots to grow deeper, which makes them more drought-tolerant and less susceptible to pests and diseases.
  • Adds nutrients to the soil: When you double dig, you can add compost or other organic matter to the soil. This helps to improve soil fertility and provide nutrients for your plants.

How to Double Dig

To double dig your garden bed, follow these steps:

  1. Spread compost: Before you start digging, spread a layer of compost over the area you want to till. This will help to improve soil fertility and add nutrients.
  2. Dig a trench: Dig a trench that is 10 inches deep and 12 inches wide along one edge of the garden bed.
  3. Fill the trench: Use the soil from the second trench to fill the first trench.
  4. Continue digging: Continue digging trenches and filling them with soil until you have reached the other end of the garden bed.
  5. Fill the last trench: Fill the last trench with the soil from the first trench.
  6. Rake the soil: Once you have finished double digging, rake the soil smooth.

Tips for Double Digging

Here are a few tips for double digging:

  • Use a sharp spade: A sharp spade will make digging easier and help you to avoid damaging plant roots.
  • Take breaks: Double digging can be hard work, so take breaks as needed to avoid getting tired.
  • Don’t dig too deep: It is important to dig deep enough to loosen the soil, but don’t dig too deep, as this can damage plant roots.
  • Add organic matter: When you double dig, add compost or other organic matter to the soil. This will help to improve soil fertility and provide nutrients for your plants.

Conclusion

Double digging is a great way to prepare your garden bed for planting. It is less labor-intensive than using a tiller, and it is actually better for your soil. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily double dig your garden bed and create a healthy, productive environment for your plants.

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Gardening

Mycorrhizal Fungi: A Beginner’s Guide for Young Gardeners

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Mycorrhizal Fungi: A Guide for Young Gardeners

What are Mycorrhizal Fungi?

Mycorrhizal fungi are special fungi that team up with plant roots to help them grow strong and healthy. These fungi form a network of tiny threads that reach far beyond the plant’s roots, helping them absorb more nutrients and water from the soil.

Benefits of Mycorrhizal Fungi for Plants

Mycorrhizal fungi provide many benefits for plants, including:

  • Improved nutrient absorption
  • Increased water uptake
  • Resistance to drought and disease
  • Enhanced growth and yield

How to Use Mycorrhizal Fungi

You can add mycorrhizal fungi to your garden by:

  • Mixing it into the soil when planting new plants
  • Sprinkling it around the roots of existing plants
  • Using a gel form to dip bare root plants before planting

When to Avoid Using Mycorrhizal Fungi

Do not use mycorrhizal fungi if:

  • You have recently applied chemical fungicides
  • You are using chemical fertilizers
  • The soil is poor or over-cultivated

Types of Mycorrhizal Fungi

There are different types of mycorrhizal fungi, each suited to specific plants. For example, ericaceous plants like rhododendrons and azaleas need a special type of mycorrhizal fungi.

Buying Mycorrhizal Fungi

Look for products that contain Rootgrow, which is the only RHS-licensed mycorrhizal fungi product.

Conclusion

Mycorrhizal fungi are beneficial microorganisms that can help your plants thrive. By understanding how to use them, you can improve the health and productivity of your garden.

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