Mulching perennials the right way can boost weed suppression and moisture retention without putting plant crowns at risk. By keeping mulch a few inches back from the base of each plant, you protect the roots while supporting rot prevention all season long.
Gardening
Advice on planting, landscape design, pest control, and seasonal maintenance for vegetable beds, flower gardens, and lawns.
How to Hand Pollinate Corn in Small Gardens
Unlock the secret to harvesting plump, juicy corn right from your backyard! With a little hand pollination love, you can boost your corn’s ear fill and enjoy a bountiful harvest, even in small spaces.
Swales for Home Gardens: When They Help, When They Don’t
Explore the potential of swales in your home garden! These clever contours can capture and retain precious water, transforming your space into a thriving oasis—just be sure they fit your specific landscape needs!
Chelated Iron for Yellow Leaves: Best Use for Iron Chlorosis
Is your garden plagued by yellow leaves? Discover how chelated iron can swiftly revive your plants by addressing iron chlorosis, especially in alkaline soils where iron is locked away, helping your greens flourish once again!
Garden Fertilizer Guide for Vegetables, Berries, and Flowers
For effective garden fertilization, conduct a soil test first to determine nutrient needs. Prioritize nitrogen and apply specific amounts according to plant demands and soil conditions. While compost enhances soil health, it’s not a complete fertilizer. Adjust pH to allow nutrient uptake, and avoid over-fertilizing to prevent plant stress.
Rhubarb Growing Guide for Home Gardeners
Rhubarb thrives in cold winters and cool springs with well-drained, fertile soil. It is a perennial plant producing edible stalks, while the poisonous leaves must be discarded. Key care involves proper planting depth, consistent moisture, and annual feeding. Beginners should start with crowns, wait to harvest, and consider site selection for optimal growth.
Spring Cleanup for Perennial Beds: Protect Pollinators and Beneficial Insects
Spring cleanup for perennial beds does not have to mean stripping the garden bare. With delayed cleanup and a lighter touch, you can protect pollinator safety while still refreshing the space for healthy new growth and beneficial insects.
Fall Garden Cleanup: What to Remove and What to Leave for Wildlife
Transform your fall garden cleanup into a wildlife haven by thoughtfully balancing plant removal and preservation—remove what harms, and leave behind treasures for birds and beneficial insects. Embrace the beauty of a garden that nurtures life even in the colder months!
Rain Harvesting Garden Paths for Better Water Capture and Runoff Control
Transform your garden paths into effective rain harvesters! With thoughtful design, these pathways can capture rainwater, reduce runoff, and nourish your plants, turning ordinary strolls into eco-friendly ventures.
Foliar Feeding in the Garden: When It Helps, When It Doesn’t
Unlock the power of foliar feeding to give your garden a quick nutritional boost when it’s needed most, but remember—it’s not a replacement for healthy soil and roots! Use this targeted tool wisely for the best results and watch your plants thrive!
Cut Back Perennials in Fall: When to Leave Them Standing
Fall cleanup isn’t always a cut-everything job—some plants are best cut back perennials in fall, while others should stand through winter for beauty and winter habitat. The right choice depends on garden timing, plant health, and whether those seed heads are still feeding birds or adding structure to the bed.
Winter Squash Curing: How to Extend Storage Life for Months
Unlock the secret to sweet, long-lasting winter squash! With a little curing care, you can transform your harvest into a pantry treasure that stays fresh for months, enhancing both flavor and storage life.
Edge Effect Garden Design: Easy Permaculture Ideas for Small Gardens
Transform your small garden from a limited space into a thriving oasis by harnessing the power of the edge effect—where borders become productive zones that burst with life, flavor, and vibrant beauty! With a few simple tweaks, like adding curves and layering plants, you can maximize your garden’s potential and enjoy a bountiful, diverse harvest right at your fingertips.
How to Fertilize Summer Houseplants After Outdoor Acclimation
Moving your houseplants outdoors for the summer can unleash a burst of vibrant growth, but adjusting their feeding routine is essential for keeping them happy and healthy. Follow a simple plan to ensure they enjoy their summer without any hiccups, and watch them thrive in the sunshine!
Deadheading Perennials for Repeat Bloom and Tidy Plants
Deadheading perennials is an easy way to encourage repeat bloom, remove spent flowers, and keep tidy plants looking fresh through the season. With a few quick snips during summer maintenance, you can help your border stay colorful, balanced, and well-shaped.















