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Summer Gardening

Natural Mosquito Repellent: Using Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away

by Donna December 16, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

How to Use Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away

Mosquitoes are annoying pests that can ruin outdoor gatherings and even carry diseases. But did you know that you can use plants to repel mosquitoes naturally? Certain plants contain volatile oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant, and these oils can help to keep the pests away.

The Most Effective Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes

Citronella: This plant is known for its strong mosquito-repelling properties. It contains citronella oil, which is a common ingredient in mosquito-repellent candles and sprays.
Lemon thyme: This herb contains about the same amount of repellent chemicals as citronella and is much easier to find. It is also a perennial, so you can enjoy its mosquito-repelling benefits for years to come.
American beautyberry: This shrub produces berries that are said to be effective in repelling mosquitoes.
Basil: This herb is not only delicious in cooking, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties.
Garlic: This pungent herb is a natural insect repellent, including mosquitoes.
Rosemary: This herb has a strong, fragrant scent that mosquitoes dislike.
Catnip: This herb is known for its calming effects on cats, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties.

How to Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants

There are two main ways to use mosquito-repelling plants:

Harvest the leaves and crush them. Rub the crushed leaves on any exposed skin. The volatile oils in the leaves will leave their insect-repellent properties on your skin, keeping the mosquitoes away.
Smoke the plants. Pick fresh branches of mosquito-repelling plants and place them in a fire or on a hot grill. The resulting smoke will help to keep mosquitoes away from your campfire or cooking area.

Creating a Mosquito-Free Zone with Plants

To create a mosquito-free zone in your yard, plant a variety of mosquito-repelling plants around your patio, deck, or other outdoor gathering areas. You can also plant these plants in containers and place them around your home.

Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away

Using mosquito-repelling plants is a natural and effective way to keep mosquitoes away. Other natural ways to keep mosquitoes away include:

Eliminating standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so it is important to eliminate any sources of standing water around your home, such as clogged gutters, birdbaths, and old tires.
Using mosquito dunks: Mosquito dunks are donut-shaped devices that contain a bacteria that kills mosquito larvae. Place mosquito dunks in any bodies of standing water around your home to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Wearing light-colored clothing: Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wear light-colored clothing when spending time outdoors.
Using fans: Fans can help to keep mosquitoes away by creating a breeze. Place fans around your patio or deck to help keep the mosquitoes at bay.

Choosing the Right Mosquito-Repelling Plants for Your Garden

When choosing mosquito-repelling plants for your garden, consider the following factors:

Effectiveness: Some plants are more effective at repelling mosquitoes than others. Choose plants that have been shown to be effective in repelling mosquitoes.
Ease of care: Some mosquito-repelling plants are easier to care for than others. Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
Aesthetics: Mosquito-repelling plants can also be beautiful additions to your garden. Choose plants that you like the look of and that will complement your existing landscape.

Skin Test for Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Before using any mosquito-repelling plant on your skin, it is important to do a skin test. Crush one leaf and rub it inside one elbow. Leave this area alone for 24 hours. If you have no irritation, itching, or rash, this plant is safe for general use.

Conclusion

Using mosquito-repelling plants is a safe and effective way to keep mosquitoes away from your home and garden. By following the tips in this article, you can create a mosquito-free zone and enjoy your outdoor space without being bothered by these pests.

Gardening

Planting Trees in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide for Success

by Gregory August 31, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Can You Plant Trees in the Summer?

If you’re an eager gardener, you may be wondering if it’s possible to plant trees during the summer months. The answer is yes, although it requires a bit more care and attention compared to planting in spring or fall.

Best Trees for Summer Planting

Not all trees are suited for summer planting. Here are some of the best options:

Container plants: These trees have already developed strong root systems, making them more resilient to transplanting during summer.
Ball-and-burlapped trees: These trees are dug up from their original location with a ball of soil around their roots, which helps protect the root system during transplanting.
Evergreens: Evergreens retain their leaves throughout the year, which means they can continue to photosynthesize and establish themselves even during summer.

Planting Trees in Summer

When planting trees in summer, it’s important to follow these steps:

Choose a suitable location: Select a spot with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Place the tree: Gently place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water thoroughly: Water the tree deeply after planting to settle the soil and provide moisture.
Mulch around the tree: Spread a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Watering Summer-Planted Trees

Summer weather can be harsh on newly planted trees, so it’s crucial to water them regularly. Check the soil every few days and water deeply if it feels dry. Water at the base of the tree, avoiding the trunk.

Caring for Summer-Planted Trees in Winter

Once winter arrives, summer-planted trees may need additional care to survive the cold and snow.

Mulch heavily: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the tree to insulate the roots.
Protect from wind: Use stakes or windbreaks to protect the tree from strong winds.
Water during thaws: On warm days during winter, water the tree if the soil is not frozen.

Additional Tips for Summer Tree Planting

Avoid planting during heat waves: If possible, avoid planting trees during extremely hot weather.
Choose trees that are drought-tolerant: Trees that can withstand drought are less likely to suffer from heat stress.
Provide shade: If the planting site is exposed to intense sunlight, consider providing shade for the tree using a tarp or umbrella.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant trees in the summer and enjoy their beauty and benefits for years to come.

Gardening

Summer Bedding Plants for Beginners: A Complete Guide to Growing and Caring for Beautiful Blooms

by Gregory July 10, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Summer Bedding Plants: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Summer bedding plants are a great way to add color and life to your garden all season long. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to care for, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Choosing the Right Bedding Plants

There are many different types of bedding plants to choose from, so it’s important to do your research before you buy. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Annuals: These plants live for only one growing season, but they’re typically very easy to grow and produce a lot of flowers.
Perennials: These plants live for more than two years, and they’ll come back year after year.
Tender plants: These plants are not cold-hardy, so they need to be brought indoors during the winter.
Half-hardy plants: These plants can tolerate some cold weather, but they may need to be protected from frost.

Planting and Caring for Bedding Plants

Once you’ve chosen your bedding plants, it’s time to plant them. Here are a few tips:

Plant them in well-drained soil. Bedding plants don’t like to sit in wet soil, so make sure the soil is well-drained before you plant them.
Space them properly. The spacing between plants will vary depending on the variety, but a good rule of thumb is to space them about 6 inches apart.
Water them regularly. Bedding plants need to be watered regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize them every few weeks. Fertilizing your bedding plants will help them to produce more flowers and stay healthy.
Deadhead them regularly. Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers. This will help to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

Tips for Making Your Bedding Plants Last Longer

With a little care, your bedding plants can last all summer long. Here are a few tips:

Choose plants that are resistant to pests and diseases. This will help to keep your plants healthy and looking their best.
Water them deeply and regularly. Don’t just water the surface of the soil; make sure the water reaches the roots.
Fertilize them regularly. Fertilizing your plants will help them to stay healthy and produce more flowers.
Deadhead them regularly. Deadheading will help to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Protect them from the elements. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you may need to protect your bedding plants from the sun, wind, or rain.

Sustainable Ways to Use Bedding Plants

Bedding plants can be a great way to add color to your garden, but they can also be harmful to the environment. Here are a few tips for using bedding plants more sustainably:

Grow them from seed. This is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of bedding plants.
Use organic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers are less harmful to the environment than synthetic fertilizers.
Choose plants that are native to your area. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water and fertilizer.
Avoid using peat moss. Peat moss is a non-renewable resource that is harmful to the environment.

Conclusion

Summer bedding plants are a great way to add color and life to your garden all season long. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right plants, plant them properly, and care for them so that they thrive.

Gardening

12 Night-Scented Plants to Fill Your Garden with Fragrance

by Gregory June 25, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

12 Plants for Evening Scent

Summer nights are perfect for relaxing outdoors, and night-scented plants can make your outdoor space even more enjoyable. These plants release their sweet fragrances as dusk falls, filling the air with a delightful perfume.

Why Plant Night-Scented Plants?

Night-scented plants have evolved to attract nocturnal pollinators, such as moths. They are often pale in color, making them more visible in moonlight. Planting night-scented plants around a terrace or patio, near an open window, or next to a well-worn path will allow you to enjoy their fragrance more easily.

12 Plants for Evening Scent

Here are 12 plants that will fill your garden with evening scent:

Angel’s trumpet
Hesperis matronalis
Tobacco plant
Night phlox
Petunia
Wisteria
Star jasmine
Regal lily
Honeysuckle
Night-scented stock
Pinks (Dianthus ‘Memories’)
Summer phlox

Tips for Planting Night-Scented Plants

Choose a spot with good drainage.
Plant in the spring or fall.
Space plants according to their mature size.
Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.

Other Night-Scented Plants to Try

Night-scented jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)
Evening primrose (Oenothera)
Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa)
Perennial white stock (Matthiola perennis ‘Alba’)
Lonicera japonica ‘Halliana’

With these tips, you can create a beautiful and fragrant garden that you can enjoy all summer long.

Gardening

Drought-Proof Your Garden: Essential Tips for Surviving Hot, Dry Weather

by Gregory June 24, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Dealing with Drought in the Garden

Introduction

When the weather gets hot and dry, our gardens can suffer. But there are things we can do to help our plants survive.

Conserving Water

One of the most important things we can do is conserve water. This means watering our plants less often, but more deeply. We can also mulch around our plants to help keep the soil moist.

Choosing Drought-Tolerant Plants

Another way to save water is to choose plants that are drought-tolerant. These plants are naturally adapted to dry conditions and don’t need as much water.

Watering Techniques

When we do water our plants, it’s important to do it effectively. This means watering at the base of the plant, where the roots are. We should also water early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is less intense.

Weeding

Weeds compete with our plants for water, so it’s important to keep up with weeding. This will help ensure that our plants get the water they need.

Holiday-Proofing

If we’re going on vacation, we need to make sure our plants will be taken care of. We can ask a neighbor to water them, or we can install an automatic watering system.

Preparing for Future Droughts

If we’ve been caught off guard by drought in the past, we can take steps to prepare for future droughts. This includes saving rainwater, mulching our gardens, and choosing drought-tolerant plants.

By following these tips, we can help our gardens survive even the driest conditions.

Container Gardening

Creative Containers: Your Ultimate Guide to Stunning Summer Displays

by Donna June 15, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Creative Containers: Your Guide to Summer Success

Get Inspired and Create Stunning Container Displays

This free guide is packed with inspiration and essential tips to help you create a beautiful and thriving container display this summer.

Foolproof Plants for Your Containers

Choose the right plants for your containers to ensure they thrive all season long. Our guide includes a list of foolproof plants that are easy to care for and will add a splash of color to your display.

Essential Care for Healthy Containers

Follow our simple care tips to keep your containers looking their best. We’ll cover watering, fertilizing, and other essential tasks to ensure your plants stay healthy and vibrant.

Creative Ideas to Enhance Your Display

Add a personal touch to your container display with these creative ideas. From unique planters to clever plant combinations, we’ve got you covered.

Create a Spectacular Display That Lasts

With our expert advice, you can create a container display that will impress your friends and family all summer long. Our guide will help you choose the right plants, care for them properly, and add creative touches to make your display truly spectacular.

Download Your Free Guide Today!

Don’t miss out on this valuable resource. Download your free digital copy of our Creative Containers guide today and get started on creating the perfect container display for your summer enjoyment.

Gardening

Summer Gardening Tasks for a Bountiful and Delicious Harvest

by Gregory June 13, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Gardening Tasks for a Bountiful Summer Harvest

Summer is a time of abundance in the garden, with a variety of fruits and vegetables ripening and ready to be enjoyed. It’s also an ideal time to start new crops that can mature before the end of the growing season. Here are some essential gardening tasks for July to ensure a successful and productive summer harvest:

Planting Out Purple Sprouting Broccoli

Purple sprouting broccoli is a delicious and nutritious brassica that can be harvested from January to May. Plant young plants in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Water regularly, especially during hot spells, to prevent bolting. Protect plants from cabbage white butterflies and pigeons with fine mesh covers.

Watering New Fruit Trees

Newly planted fruit trees require regular watering to establish their roots. Water deeply every few days, especially during hot and dry weather. Spread a layer of compost around the base of the tree to retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Harvesting Runner Beans

Runner beans are a summer staple that can be enjoyed fresh, frozen, or canned. Pick pods when they are slim, light green, and free of dark green patches. Harvest daily to encourage continuous production.

Lifting New Potatoes

New potatoes have a unique flavor and are best harvested when they are about the size of a hen’s egg. Loosen the soil around the plant and use a garden fork to gently lift the tubers without damaging them. Harvest just before cooking for the best flavor.

Keeping Courgettes Cropping

Courgettes are prolific producers, but they can quickly turn into marrows if not harvested regularly. Pick fruits when they are around 10cm long to ensure continuous cropping and sweet, tender fruits. Water and fertilize regularly to keep plants healthy and productive.

Sowing Dwarf French Beans

Dwarf French beans are a good choice for small gardens or empty spaces in the vegetable patch. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Water regularly and thin out seedlings to allow for proper growth.

Watering Strawberries

Strawberries are a thirsty crop, especially in pots and during the first two years after planting. Water at the base of the plants, taking care not to splash the fruits. Check for slugs and snails, and remove weeds regularly.

Sowing Pak Choi

Pak choi is a crunchy leaf vegetable that is prone to bolting in hot weather. Sow seeds after the longest day of the year (June 21) to reduce the risk of premature bolting. Keep the soil moist and thin out seedlings to allow for full development.

Harvesting Shallots

Shallots are easy-to-grow bulbs with a rich and sophisticated flavor. Harvest when the foliage starts to keel over. Use a hand fork to gently lift the bulbs from the ground and lay them out in the sun to dry and ripen.

Thrifty Tip: Growing Herbs from Seed

Instead of buying expensive potted herbs from the supermarket, sow coriander and basil from seed for a more reliable and substantial harvest. Sow coriander directly into the garden soil in a sunny spot, while basil can be started indoors in pots. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have developed sturdy stems.

By following these gardening tasks and tips, you can ensure a bountiful and enjoyable harvest throughout the summer months. Remember to water regularly, fertilize when necessary, and protect your plants from pests and diseases. With a little care and attention, your garden will reward you with an abundance of fresh and delicious produce.

Fruit Growing

How to Grow Cherry Trees: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory June 9, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow Cherry Trees

Introduction

Cherry trees are beautiful and rewarding to grow, producing delicious fruit and attractive blossoms. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow your own cherry trees successfully.

Choosing the Right Cherry Tree

There are two main types of cherry trees: sweet and sour (morello). Sweet cherries are best for eating fresh, while sour cherries are better for cooking. Consider the size of your garden and the amount of sunlight it receives when choosing a variety.

Planting Your Cherry Tree

Plant cherry trees in well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down gently.
Water the tree thoroughly and stake it if necessary.

Caring for Your Cherry Tree

Water your cherry tree regularly, especially during the first year.
Fertilize your tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune your cherry tree in the summer to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree.
Protect your tree from pests and diseases by using natural methods such as encouraging beneficial insects.

Harvesting Your Cherries

Cherries are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and have a deep red color. Cut the bunches of cherries from the tree with stalks intact, taking care not to bruise the fruits.

Storing Your Cherries

Sweet cherries can be stored in the fridge for about a week after picking. Sour cherries can be used in preserves, cakes, and tarts.

Troubleshooting

Cherry trees can be affected by a variety of pests and diseases. Common problems include cherry blackfly, fruit fly, and blossom wilt. Encourage beneficial insects and practice good hygiene to prevent these issues.

Additional Tips

Consider growing dwarf cherry trees in containers or against a wall if you have limited space.
Self-fertile cherry varieties, such as ‘Morello’, can be grown without a planting partner.
Protect your cherries from birds by netting your trees.
If you need to move a cherry tree, do so during the dormant season (November to March) and dig up as much of the root ball as possible.

Gardening

Spring Border Maintenance: Six Essential Tasks for Summer Blooms

by Donna April 29, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Six Essential Spring Tasks for Vibrant Summer Borders

As spring awakens nature, it’s the perfect time to give your garden borders some TLC to ensure they flourish throughout the summer. Here are six key tasks to tackle:

1. Feed Your Plants

As plants enter their growth spurt, they need a nutrient boost. Feed them with a balanced organic fertilizer, such as fish, blood, and bonemeal, to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

2. Deadhead Spent Blooms

Spring-flowering plants like bergenias and hellebores benefit from deadheading, which redirects energy into leaf growth and strengthens the plants. However, if you want hellebores to self-seed, leave their seedheads intact.

3. Stake Tall Plants

Tall and large-flowered plants, such as peonies and delphiniums, may need staking to prevent them from drooping or falling over. Use grids or bent metal supports to provide gentle support.

4. Tie In Climbers

As climbers develop new growth, train them onto their support structures using twine or wire. Tie them in evenly to ensure optimal coverage and encourage prolific flowering.

5. Hoe and Weed

As you work in your borders, hoe the soil to loosen it, especially in areas where you’ve compacted it. This aeration promotes root growth and prevents weeds from taking hold.

6. Mulch for Moisture and Fertility

Apply a layer of mulch between plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enhance soil fertility. Organic materials like bark chips or compost work well and also add a decorative touch to your borders.

Additional Tips for Spring Border Maintenance

Water Wisely: Keep newly planted plants well-watered, especially during dry spells in summer. Consider setting up a leaky-hose irrigation system for hassle-free watering.
Plant Recommendations: Add some vibrant blooms to your borders with plants like magenta cranesbills (Geranium ‘Ann Folkard’), white astrantias (‘Shaggy’), Warsaw Nike clematis, Siberian irises, and acid-yellow Euphorbia x martini.

Conclusion

By following these six essential tasks, you can prepare your garden borders for a season of stunning beauty and abundance. Remember to pay attention to your plants’ specific needs and adjust your maintenance routine accordingly. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as your borders burst into vibrant life this summer.

Gardening

Summer Gardening: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Harvest

by Gregory April 28, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Summer Gardening: A Guide for Beginners

Summer is the most exciting time in the garden! There’s so much to do and see, and the weather is perfect for spending time outdoors.

What to Plant in the Summer

Some of the best plants to grow in the summer include:

Flowers: zinnias, sunflowers, marigolds, cosmos, and daisies
Vegetables: tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, and beans
Fruits: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries

How to Care for Plants in the Summer

To keep your summer plants healthy and thriving, be sure to:

Water them regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilize them every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect them from pests and diseases by using organic methods such as companion planting and neem oil.

What to Harvest in the Summer

Summer is the time to harvest all the delicious fruits and vegetables you’ve been growing. Some of the most popular summer harvests include:

Tomatoes
Peppers
Cucumbers
Zucchini
Beans
Strawberries
Blueberries
Raspberries
Blackberries

What to Do in the Summer Garden

In addition to planting and harvesting, there are plenty of other things to do in the summer garden, such as:

Attract wildlife by planting native flowers and providing water sources.
Create a summer container display with your favorite flowers.
Relax and enjoy the beauty of your garden!

Summer Gardening Tips

Here are a few tips to make the most of your summer gardening experience:

Start your plants from seed indoors a few weeks before the last frost.
Harden off your plants before transplanting them outdoors.
Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilize your plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect your plants from pests and diseases by using organic methods such as companion planting and neem oil.
Harvest your fruits and vegetables when they are ripe.
Enjoy the beauty of your summer garden!

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