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Gardening

August Gardening Tips: Pruning, Planting, and More

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Gardening Tips for August

Summer is winding down, but there’s still plenty to do in the garden in August. Here are some tips:

Deadheading and Seed Saving

As the early summer blooms fade, it’s time to deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and flowering. However, leave rose hips and seedheads on plants like knapweed, teasel, and sunflowers to provide food for the birds.

August is also a great time to collect and store seeds for next year’s garden. Simply allow the seeds to ripen on the plant, then collect them and store them in a cool, dry place.

Pruning Rambling Roses

Rambling roses are beautiful when they’re allowed to grow freely through trees, but those growing up walls need regular pruning and training. We recommend removing old wood and tying in new growth that will carry next year’s flowers.

Adding Shrubs to Bare Borders

If you have any bare spots in your borders, August is a good time to add some shrubs. We suggest using plants like Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’ and Hypericum x hidcoteense ‘Hidcote’ to fill in the gaps.

Planting a Mediterranean Herb Pot

Mediterranean herbs are ideal for container gardening because they love full sun and are drought-tolerant. We recommend planting a herb pot with prostrate rosemary, lemon thyme, and common thyme.

Propagating Philadelphus

Philadelphus is a beautiful shrub that can be easily propagated by cuttings.

Other Gardening Jobs for August

In addition to the tasks listed above, we also recommend:

  • Sowing crops like salad leaves and winter radish
  • Selecting plants that can cope with heatwave conditions
  • Choosing drought-tolerant Mediterranean herbs for containers
  • Cutting back herbs to keep them looking good for years

By following these tips, you can keep your garden looking its best all summer long.

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Houseplants

Yucca Plants: The Ultimate Guide to Care and Maintenance for Beginners

by Donna
written by Donna 5 minutes read

Yucca Plants: The Ultimate Guide to Care and Maintenance

Introduction

Are you looking for a houseplant that is both beautiful and easy to care for? Look no further than the spineless yucca (Yucca elephantipes)! These plants are native to the desert regions of Mexico and Central America, and they are known for their drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature.

Benefits of Yucca Plants

  • Low-maintenance: Yucca plants are very forgiving and can tolerate neglect. They don’t require frequent watering or fertilizing, and they can even survive in low-light conditions.
  • Drought-tolerant: Yuccas are native to arid environments, so they are very tolerant of drought. They can go for long periods of time without water, making them ideal for busy plant parents or those who travel frequently.
  • Slow-growing: Yucca plants grow slowly, so you won’t have to worry about them outgrowing your space. They are also relatively easy to prune, so you can keep them at a manageable size.
  • Architectural plant: Yuccas have a unique and striking appearance, with their tall, slender trunks and sword-like leaves. They can add a touch of drama and sophistication to any room.
  • Versatile indoor plant: Yucca plants are well-suited to a variety of indoor environments, including homes, offices, and even shopping malls. They can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
  • Large indoor plant: Yuccas can grow to be quite large, making them a good choice for filling empty corners or creating a statement piece in your home.
  • Air-purifying: Yucca plants are known to remove toxins from the air, making them a good choice for improving indoor air quality.

Potted Yucca Care

While yucca plants are generally low-maintenance, there are a few things you can do to keep them healthy and looking their best.

Watering

Yucca plants do not need to be watered frequently. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common mistakes that plant parents make. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the summer months, you may need to water your yucca plant every week or two. In the winter months, you may only need to water it once a month or even less.

Potting Soil

Yucca plants prefer well-draining potting soil. A cactus mix is ideal, but you can also add sand, perlite, or vermiculite to a standard potting mix to improve drainage.

Fertilizing

Yucca plants are not heavy feeders, so they do not need to be fertilized frequently. You can fertilize your yucca plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Pruning

Yucca plants require minimal pruning. Simply remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed. You can also trim the lower leaves to expose the trunk, if desired.

Repotting

Yucca plants grow slowly, so they do not need to be repotted frequently. Repot your yucca plant every 3-5 years, or when it becomes rootbound.

Common Problems

Yucca plants are relatively problem-free, but there are a few common problems that you may encounter.

  • Overwatering: Overwatering is the most common problem with yucca plants. It can lead to root rot, which can be fatal. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
  • Underwatering: Underwatering is less common, but it can also be a problem. Yucca plants can tolerate drought, but they will eventually wilt and die if they are not watered regularly.
  • Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering. It can lead to the death of the plant. If you suspect that your yucca plant has root rot, remove it from the pot and inspect the roots. If the roots are brown and mushy, the plant is likely infected with root rot. There is no cure for root rot, so the plant will need to be discarded.
  • Pests: Yucca plants are relatively pest-free, but they can occasionally be bothered by mealybugs, scale, or aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Conclusion

Yucca plants are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for addition to any home or office. With their drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature, they are a great choice for busy plant parents or those who travel frequently.

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Gardening

The Pink Tropical Hydrangea: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Care

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

The Pink Tropical Hydrangea: A Guide to Growing and Care

Introduction

If you live in a warm climate where frost is rare, you have a wide range of flowering plants and shrubs to choose from for your garden. One particularly beautiful and easy-to-grow option is the pink tropical hydrangea, also known as the pink wild pear flower.

About the Pink Tropical Hydrangea

The pink tropical hydrangea (Dombeya burgessiae) is a native of Africa. It is a medium-sized shrub that can reach heights of 15 feet (5 m.). The plant produces large clusters of pink blooms that resemble mop heads. Despite its name, the pink tropical hydrangea is not actually a member of the hydrangea family.

Growing the Pink Tropical Hydrangea

Pink tropical hydrangeas are best suited for growth outdoors in tropical regions. They prefer light shade and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. The plants are relatively low-maintenance, but they do benefit from routine pruning after flowering has ceased. This will help to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant and keep the flower borders looking neat and tidy.

Planting the Pink Tropical Hydrangea

Before planting your pink tropical hydrangea, select the ideal location. Make sure to consider the size of the plant at maturity when placing it in your landscape. The plant grows best in sites that receive light shade throughout the day.

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant deeply after planting.

Caring for the Pink Tropical Hydrangea

Pink tropical hydrangeas are fairly carefree plants, but they do have a few specific needs.

  • Watering: Water your pink tropical hydrangea regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilizing: Fertilize your pink tropical hydrangea monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Pruning: Prune your pink tropical hydrangea after flowering has ceased to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. You can also prune any dead or diseased branches at this time.

Troubleshooting

Pink tropical hydrangeas are generally pest- and disease-resistant, but they can occasionally be affected by aphids, mealybugs, or scale. If you notice any pests on your plant, treat them with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Conclusion

The pink tropical hydrangea is a beautiful and easy-to-grow shrub that is perfect for adding privacy or color to your yard. With its large clusters of pink blooms and low-maintenance care requirements, the pink tropical hydrangea is sure to be a favorite in your garden.

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Gardening

8 Essential Reasons to Prune Your Plants in Summer for a Bountiful Harvest and Healthy Growth

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Eight Reasons to Prune Your Plants in Summer

Pruning is an important task for keeping your plants healthy and looking their best. It’s often overlooked, but it’s just as important as pruning in winter.

Here are eight reasons why you should prune your plants in summer:

Encourages More Fruit Buds

Pruning fruit trees in summer helps encourage more fruit buds to develop. This means you’ll get a bigger harvest next year!

Prevents Disease

Pruning can help prevent disease by removing weak or diseased branches. This allows air to circulate better, which helps keep your plants healthy.

Removes Old Fruited Wood

After a few years, the productivity of fruit bushes will decline. Pruning back the thickest, oldest stems will help encourage new growth and improve fruit production.

Restricts the Size of Fruit Bushes

Left unpruned, fruit bushes can outgrow their space. Pruning back the youngest growth limits the size of plants and encourages more productive sideshoots to form.

Encourages New Growth

With the exception of autumn fruiting raspberries, cane fruits produce new canes each year. Old, fruited canes can be cut down to the ground to make space for new stems.

Promotes Better Flowering

Climbers like honeysuckle and wisteria can become a tangled mess by the end of the season. Pruning in summer removes soft growth and allows flower-promoting potash to build up in the plant.

Keeps Shrubs in Shape

Overgrown shrubs produce their flowers high up on the plant, where they can’t be seen. Pruning in summer helps keep shrubs in shape and encourages flowering.

Helps Train Shrubs

Early training and shaping of shrubs is crucial for creating a strong framework of branches and better flowering in the plant’s early years.

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Gardening

Pruning in June: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Pruning in June

What is Pruning?

Pruning is like giving your plants a haircut. It helps them grow strong and healthy, and it can also encourage them to produce more flowers or fruit.

When to Prune

June is a good time to prune many types of plants, including spring-flowering shrubs and early-flowering perennials.

How to Prune

  • Spring-flowering shrubs: Cut back the oldest stems at the base to encourage new growth.
  • Early-flowering perennials: Cut back the spent flower stems to the base to encourage a second flush of flowers.

Chelsea Chop

The Chelsea chop is a pruning technique that can be used on early flowering perennials to stimulate a new flush of leaves and flowers. It’s best done right after flowering, before the plant wastes too much energy going to seed.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Chelsea Chop

  1. Lift up spent flower shoots and gather handfuls to hold up and cut with secateurs.
  2. Cut all the stems right back to the base.
  3. Pull any debris out of the border, along with any weeds you’ve uncovered.
  4. Water well and look forward to the rejuvenated canopy of new leaves.

Benefits of Pruning in June

  • Encourages new growth
  • Thickens growth and shapes plants
  • Helps plants produce more flowers or fruit
  • Keeps climbers from swamping supports
  • Delays flowering or reduces flower stem heights on later flowering perennials

Tips for Pruning

  • Wear gloves to protect your hands from sap.
  • Use sharp secateurs or pruning shears.
  • Cut back to a bud or node.
  • Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
  • Avoid pruning beech hedges, broom, hydrangeas, and wall-trained apples in June.
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Gardening Tips

How to Trim a Conifer Hedge: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

How to Trim a Conifer Hedge: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Conifer hedges are a popular choice for gardeners because they are relatively low-maintenance and can provide privacy and structure to a garden. However, conifers can grow quickly and become overgrown if not properly trimmed. Trimming your conifer hedge regularly will help to keep it healthy and looking its best.

When to Trim Conifer Hedges

The best time to trim conifer hedges is in late summer or early autumn, after the conifers have shed their needles. This is because the new growth will have hardened off and will be less likely to be damaged by the cold winter weather. You can also trim your hedge in late winter or early spring, when the trees are dormant. However, avoid trimming your hedge in the middle of summer, as this can encourage new growth that will be more susceptible to damage from the heat and drought.

How to Trim a Conifer Hedge

Materials:

  • Hedgetrimmers or hand shears
  • Safety goggles
  • Gloves
  • Garden string
  • Bamboo canes
  • Ladder

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Hedge

Before you start trimming your hedge, inspect it thoroughly to ensure there are no birds nesting within. It’s an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.

Step 2: Mark the Top Edge

Use long bamboo canes to mark the top edge along one side of the hedge. Push the canes down into the hedge until they are secure.

Step 3: Tie String Between the Canes

Tie strong string between the canes to mark a straight edge as a guide to cut to. Check that the string line is taut.

Step 4: Trim the Top of the Hedge

Trim the top of the hedge by holding the hedge-trimmer horizontally with both hands and using the string line as a guide. Wear protective goggles and gloves and make sure you have a firm footing on a ladder or platform for tall hedges.

Step 5: Trim the Sides of the Hedge

Clip the sides of the hedge using the string as a guide. Hold the hedge-trimmer vertically and make long sweeping strokes to ensure an even finish.

Step 6: Tidy Up the Hedge Edges

Remove the canes and string line before using the hedge-trimmer to tidy up the top edges. Hold the cutting bar at a 45-degree angle.

Tips for Trimming Conifer Hedges

  • Use sharp hedge-trimmers or hand shears to make clean cuts.
  • Trim your hedge regularly to keep it healthy and looking its best.
  • Avoid over-trimming your hedge, as this can damage the plant.
  • If you are unsure how to trim your hedge, consult with a professional gardener.

Conclusion

Trimming your conifer hedge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your hedge healthy and looking its best.

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Flower Gardening

Growing and Caring for Diascia: A Complete Guide for Beginners

by Donna
written by Donna 4 minutes read

Growing and Caring for Diascia: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Diascia, also known as twinspur, are vibrant and easy-to-grow annuals or perennials that add a splash of color to summer gardens. With their delicate cup-shaped blooms and compact growth habit, they are perfect for borders, hanging baskets, and containers. This detailed guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to grow and care for diascia successfully.

Types of Diascia

There are many different varieties of diascia available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some diascia have a trailing habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets and window boxes. Others have a more upright habit, suitable for borders and raised beds. There are also hardy perennial varieties that can withstand colder temperatures.

How to Grow Diascia

Growing from Seed:

To grow diascia from seed, sow the seeds indoors in early spring. Keep the soil moist and warm, and transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they have developed their first set of true leaves. Harden off the seedlings gradually before planting them outdoors in early summer.

Planting:

Diascia prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in spring or early summer, after the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 6-8 inches apart. Water the plants well after planting.

How to Care for Diascia

Watering:

Diascia need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plants deeply, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Potted plants may need more frequent watering than those growing in the ground.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize diascia every couple of weeks with a liquid fertilizer high in potash. This will help to boost flowering and keep the plants healthy.

Pruning:

Pinch out or shorten straggly stems on young plants to encourage bushy growth. If plants become leggy or overgrown in late summer, trim them back to promote new growth. Cut back older stems of perennial diascias in mid to late spring.

Overwintering:

Frost-tender diascia should be brought indoors for the winter. Place the plants in a cool, frost-free location, such as a greenhouse, porch, or conservatory. Water the plants sparingly over the winter.

Troubleshooting

Diascia are generally pest- and disease-free. However, they may occasionally be affected by aphids or whiteflies. Treat these pests with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Propagation

Diascia can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Propagation from Seed:

Follow the steps outlined in the “How to Grow Diascia” section above.

Propagation from Cuttings:

Take cuttings from the tips of non-flowering shoots in late summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings warm and well-lit until they have rooted.

Propagation from Division:

Perennial diascia can be divided in spring or fall. Dig up the plant and carefully divide it into smaller sections. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil.

Conclusion

Diascia are a rewarding and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their colorful blooms and compact growth habit, they are perfect for a variety of landscaping applications. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy diascia for many seasons to come.

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Gardening

Gardening Tools: The Ultimate Guide for Every Gardener

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Gardening Tools: A Comprehensive Guide for Every Gardener

Introduction

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, having the right tools for the job can make all the difference. From watering to planting, pruning to cleaning, there’s a wide range of gardening tools available to help you tackle any task.

Watering Tools

Watering is essential for healthy plants, and the right tools can make it easier and more efficient. Watering cans are great for small gardens or indoor plants, while hoses and sprinklers are ideal for larger areas. For precise watering, consider using a spray gun or soaker hose.

Planting Tools

Planting new plants is a rewarding experience, and the right tools can help ensure their success. Trowels are essential for digging holes, while spades are better suited for larger jobs like preparing beds. Hand forks are handy for transplanting seedlings, and bulb planters make it easy to plant bulbs at the correct depth.

Pruning Tools

Pruning is a crucial part of plant care, helping to remove dead or diseased growth and encourage new growth. Bypass pruners and anvil pruners are the most common types of pruning shears, each with its own advantages. Hedge trimmers are ideal for shaping hedges and bushes, while loppers can tackle thicker branches.

Power Tools

Power tools can make certain gardening tasks easier and faster. Pressure washers are great for cleaning patios and driveways, while hedge trimmers are perfect for large hedges. Leaf blowers and leaf blower vacuums can quickly clear away fallen leaves. Multi-tools combine multiple functions into one tool, making them a versatile addition to any gardener’s toolbox.

Seasonal Tool Recommendations

Spring: Focus on tools for planting and preparing the garden, such as spades, trowels, and hand forks.

Summer: Watering tools like hoses and sprinklers become essential, along with pruning shears for shaping plants.

Fall: Leaf blowers and leaf blower vacuums are must-haves for cleaning up fallen leaves.

Winter: Consider using heated hoses or soaker hoses to protect plants from freezing temperatures.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tools

  • Consider the size of your garden and the types of plants you grow.
  • Choose tools that are made from durable materials and are comfortable to use.
  • Read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.
  • Invest in high-quality tools that will last for many seasons.

Conclusion

Having the right gardening tools can make your gardening experience more enjoyable and productive. By understanding the different types of tools available and their specific uses, you can choose the ones that are best suited for your needs. With the right tools in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create a beautiful and thriving garden.

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Gardening

Pruning in October: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Garden for Winter

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Pruning in October: Preparing Your Garden for Winter

As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your garden for winter. One important task is pruning plants to keep them healthy and looking their best.

When to Prune

In October, you should focus on pruning plants that are starting to die back or look untidy. This includes:

  • Perennials: Cut back dead or faded stems and leaves to the ground.
  • Shrubs: Prune lightly to remove any dead or diseased branches.
  • Trees: Avoid pruning trees in October, as this can encourage new growth that will be vulnerable to frost.

How to Prune

When pruning, always use sharp, clean shears. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.

To prune perennials, simply cut back the dead or faded stems to the ground. You can also remove any leaves that are yellowing or brown.

To prune shrubs, first remove any dead or diseased branches. Then, use your shears to lightly trim any branches that are too long or unruly.

What Not to Prune

There are a few plants that you should not prune in October, as this can damage them or prevent them from blooming next year. These include:

  • Spring-flowering shrubs and trees
  • Ornamental grasses
  • Hydrangeas

Other Fall Garden Maintenance Tips

In addition to pruning, there are a few other things you can do to prepare your garden for winter:

  • Remove any dead or diseased plants.
  • Clear away any fallen leaves or debris.
  • Mulch around your plants to help insulate them from the cold.
  • Water your plants deeply before the ground freezes.

By following these tips, you can help your garden survive the winter and come back strong in the spring.

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Gardening

Blackthorn: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for This Wildlife-Friendly Shrub

by Donna
written by Donna 4 minutes read

Blackthorn: A Guide to Growing and Caring for This Wildlife-Friendly Shrub

Introduction

Blackthorn, also known as sloe, is a versatile shrub that can be grown as a hedge or a small tree. It’s a great choice for wildlife gardens, as it provides food and shelter for a variety of insects, birds, and small mammals.

Growing Conditions

Blackthorn prefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It’s a hardy shrub that can tolerate most soil types and exposed sites.

Planting

  • Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
  • Soak the plant’s roots in water for 30 minutes before planting.
  • Place the plant in the hole and spread out the roots.
  • Backfill the hole with soil and firm it down gently.
  • Water the plant thoroughly and keep it well-watered in dry periods for the first year.

Care

Blackthorn is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care.

  • Pruning: Prune blackthorn in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches and to control its size and shape.
  • Suckers: Remove suckers regularly to prevent thickets from developing.

Propagation

Blackthorn can be propagated from seed, softwood cuttings, suckers, or by layering.

  • Seed: Collect seeds in autumn and store them in the fridge over winter. Sow them in spring.
  • Softwood cuttings: Take softwood cuttings from spring to early summer.
  • Suckers: Sever suckers from the parent plant in spring and replant them.

Pests and Diseases

Blackthorn is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by:

  • Silver leaf: This fungal disease causes branch dieback and silvery foliage.
  • Blossom wilt: This fungal disease causes leaves and blossom to wilt and brown.
  • Gall-forming fungus: This fungus causes plants to produce small, shrivelled fruits.
  • Aphids and caterpillars: These pests may damage leaves, but they generally cause little harm to the plant.

Wildlife Benefits

Blackthorn is a valuable wildlife plant. It provides:

  • Food: Sloes are a popular food source for birds and small mammals.
  • Shelter: The thorny branches create sheltered areas and nesting sites for wildlife.
  • Pollination: The early blossom attracts pollinators such as bumblebees and mining bees.

Sloes: Harvesting and Uses

Sloes are the small, dark blue fruits of the blackthorn shrub. They are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of ways:

  • Sloe gin: Sloes are the key ingredient in sloe gin, a popular liqueur.
  • Jellies and preserves: Sloes can be used to make jellies, jams, and other preserves.
  • Flavoring: Sloes can be used to flavor vodka, port, and other alcoholic beverages.

Choosing and Buying Blackthorn

  • Blackthorn hedging is often sold as bare-root plants.
  • Plant bare-root trees as soon as you receive them.
  • If you can’t plant on the day of arrival, soak them in a bucket of water and then plant in a bare patch of soil until the planting site is ready.

Varieties of Blackthorn

There are several varieties of blackthorn available, including:

  • Prunus spinosa ‘Plena’: This variety has beautiful double-flowered white blossom in March and April.
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