Spring

IS IT POSSIBLE TO KEEP YOUR GARDEN FREE FROM WEEDS?

Hmm. That’s a tall order. Weeds common to your garden are naturally suited to the sun, soil, and water conditions of this area. That’s why it’s so hard to get rid of weeds after they’ve taken root. But if you prevent weed seeds from germinating, your garden can be weed-free. Here are some tips to IS IT POSSIBLE TO KEEP YOUR GARDEN FREE FROM WEEDS?

Keep Coleus Looking its Best All Summer?

Coleus is probably one of the easiest plants to grow and propagate. In fact, the plants root so easily that you can even start cuttings in a glass of water. They can also be propagated by seed indoors about 8-10 weeks prior to the last expected spring frost.

ROOKIE GARDENING MISTAKES (Part II)

Our last article detailed four common mistakes new (and sometimes seasoned) gardeners make: 1. Unwise watering; 2. Failing to test your soil; 3. Planting garden ‘divas’; and 4. Planting too much. Read below to learn of 3 more rookie mistakes we often make.

WHAT THE HECK IS A BUG HOTEL? (A Tutorial)

Nature does a lot to help our fruits and vegetables along, especially by providing a bunch of beneficial insects to pollinate our crops and prey on pests. It’s impossible to say just how valuable these creepy crawlies are in keeping the cycle of garden life going, but we are very indebted to them!

ARE YOU MAKING THESE ROOKIE MISTAKES IN YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN? Part I

Even the best vegetable gardeners can make rookie mistakes. Here are 4 no-no’s to avoid. Look for more mistakes in the next article.

WHO KNEW? EPSOM SALTS FOR YOUR GARDEN?

Most people have heard of Epsom salts and they typically associate it with baths, as this natural salt from Epsom, England is probably best known as a way to help relieve your body’s aches and pains. Or perhaps you’ve even been one of the unfortunate ones who’ve had to use Epsom salts as a laxative. WHO KNEW? EPSOM SALTS FOR YOUR GARDEN?

What is Companion Planting?

Companion gardening is the planting together of plants that have similar growing needs,  to maximize the production of both plants. It is still an experimental field with more research needed, but there are some things we do know and can pass along.

Tips to Caring for Outdoor Tropicals

By following these simple tips, you can grow the perfect tropical plants for your patio or garden. Water — Plants should be watered to the point that water is running out the bottom of the pot. Shallow watering will cause poor root growth and weak stems. — Soil must be allowed to dry out between Tips to Caring for Outdoor Tropicals

How and Why to Divide Perennials

Why Divide Perennials? There are three primary reasons for dividing perennials: to control the size of the plants; to help rejuvenate your plants; and to increase the number of plants you have. This is an inexpensive way to gain additional plants for your garden (or to share with others). When Should You Divide Perennials? This How and Why to Divide Perennials

The Challenge of Controlling Weeds in April

Dandelion, clover, plantain and other broadleaf weeds are among the most common and troublesome pest problems in lawns. Even though most broadleaf weeds can be easily controlled with herbicides, a completely weed-free lawn is neither practical nor environmentally sensible. A safe and sound approach to lawn weed control is to grow healthy turf, spot-treat weeds The Challenge of Controlling Weeds in April

To Mulch or Not to Mulch? And When?

What is Mulch and Why is it Important? Mulch can be anything that covers the soil. It ‘s purpose is to retain moisture and prevent weeds, and help maintain soil temperature. It can be applied at different times of the year depending on the purpose. Towards the beginning of the growing season mulches serve initially To Mulch or Not to Mulch? And When?

Grow a Healthy and Beautiful Garden

Which Growing Zone? Growing a garden in Zone 7a (this is the zone we live in on Long Island) means we have the best of both warm and cool climates. Summer temperatures are warm enough to grow tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and many other subtropical plants. Winter temperatures can be cool enough to freeze the soil Grow a Healthy and Beautiful Garden