http://digplantgrow.com The Best Gardening Articles en-us Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:05:01 CDT While most of us think of lawn grass as the best way to cover the ground with greenery, there are a whole host of other plants that can be used as groundcovers and have many advantages over lawns. Lawns are great if you have lots of sun and active kids, and if you entertain with big outdoor parties. But in many instances, groundcovers are a better choice to fill the spaces around your perennial gardens, trees, and shrubs. Groundcovers are low maintenance and look beautiful. Once established, they can prevent weed growth, and many are better adapted than lawn grasses http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=591 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=591 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Landscape lighting is one of the most dramatic additions to your garden that you can make, taking the landscape from day to night and adding a measure of security around your house. There are a number of lighting choices available to the home gardener, from solar to high voltage. While some are easy for the homeowner to install, other types require more skill or even the services of an electrician. Consider what features you'd like to highlight in your garden before making your decision, and if you're in doubt, always consult a licensed electrician for proper recommendations. Solar Lights A wide variety http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=602 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=602 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT You know the expression, "It's a labor of love?" That saying definitely applies to growing asparagus in your vegetable garden. But asparagus is such a long-lived and delicious crop that it's well worth the time and effort to grow it. Here are some asparagus basics to get you going. Choose your site. Choose your site carefully, as a healthy asparagus bed can be productive for fifteen years or more. Asparagus needs full sun and loose, well-draining soil. Avoid areas or soils that retain too much moisture, as asparagus will quickly rot in any amount of standing water. It can be http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=601 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=601 Sun, 19 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Radishes are a very satisfying crop. They grow quickly in spring or fall from seed and they produce abundantly. While some people don't like the spicy flavor of radishes, I think they add a zip to salads and dips. You can cook with them, too, if you grow the daikon, Chinese, or Spanish varieties. These take longer to mature, but require the same growing conditions as traditional radishes. All radishes grow best under cool conditions. Amend the soil and build raised beds in all but sandy soil. Raised beds heat up the soil faster and dry it out more quickly in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=588 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=588 Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Often we focus so much on the gorgeous plants that we'll be adding to our new spring beds that we forget about the other, more mundane landscape materials we'll need. Soil amendments, soil, mulch, and rock are good examples-we need these materials to pull off our garden visions, but it can be difficult to determine how much we need. Most places that sell plants will also sell some of these materials, whether in bulk or in bags-the staff can help you determine appropriate quantities, but here are some considerations to get you going. Pricing: Landscape supplies like soil, fertilizers, and mulch http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=600 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=600 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Container gardening is a popular way to grow vegetable, herbs, flowers, and even small trees and shrubs in a small space. In urban areas or around schools, containers are often the best option for teaching kids about growing plants. But before you go out and plant in just any old pot, you need to understand the differences in containers and teach kids about them as well. All containers need drainage holes so water doesn't accumulate in the soil. Also, they need to be sturdy enough to hold the soil and the plant you're growing, especially when it's mature. Here are some http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=587 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=587 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT If you have any wooded areas around your urban property, you can expect to see a number of animals roaming through your yard. Deer, raccoons, opossums, and birds like owls and hawks are familiar sights to many urban gardeners, but lately I've been observing more foxes making my yard their home. It's best to know how to coexist with these beautiful animals, while at the same time protecting your garden from damage. Read on for tips on safeguarding both your property and foxes alike. Cats, Dogs, and Chickens While foxes aren't known to stalk cats and dogs, it's a good idea to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=595 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=595 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT February is an important month for the rose gardener in many parts of the United States. Planting, pruning, and fertilizing are some of the tasks to tend to-but don't forget to start planning out that new bed! There's sure to be a perfect rose addition for your garden this year. Prune Prune roses in late winter when the rosebush is dormant; for many people, Valentine's Day is the time to prune, but do check with authorities in your area for the best time. Remove dead or diseased canes (branches), those that grow inward toward the center of the bush, or those that http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=594 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=594 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Nothing beats eating fresh peas from the garden. They are one of the first spring crops, are easy to grow, and come in a number of different varieties. Before you go out and till up the soil and plant, it's important to mind your "p's and q's" about peas. There are three different types of fresh peas to grow. English pea varieties such as 'Alderman' and 'Wando' grow tall and are grown only for the sweet peas in the pod. Snap peas such as 'Super Sugar Snap' and the dwarf 'Sugar Ann' come in a variety of sizes depending on the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=583 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=583 Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT The cooler winter months are a great time to take a look at some of those garden projects that you've been meaning to tend to since last fall. Take birdhouses, for example-if you want to attract birds to your yard, keep in mind that there are a number of other animals that would consider your feathered friends a nice meal. Here are some tips to tighten up on birdhouse security. Use metal birdhouse poles. Snakes, raccoons, and cats can easily climb or slither up a wooden stump or post, but if you install a metal pole as a base for your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=593 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=593 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT It's easy to forget that most spring-flowering trees and shrubs are ready to burst forth with color as soon as January arrives. Most have met their winter dormancy requirements for cold temperatures by then. However, it usually doesn't happen because the winter cold delays spring flowering until the weather warms. To illustrate this for your kids and to teach them a little about the science behind flowering, have them collect branches of certain spring-flowering trees and shrubs to force indoors. Here's how. Walk around the school grounds or your home with your kids, and perhaps a Master Gardener or knowledgeable parent, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=582 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=582 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT In all but the most frozen parts of the country, gardeners can use winter annuals to add a pop of color to their landscapes. Whether in the perennial bed or in containers, annuals are easy to grow and easier to maintain with just a bit of care. Here are some tips to keep your annual display looking fresh and healthy-but remember, if your area is experiencing temperatures below 45 degrees F, wait until it warms up to plant. Deadhead. Deadheading means removing the flowers once they are done blooming, or when they are faded and brown. Removing them lets the plant http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=590 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=590 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Unless you're in a very warm region, it's too early to start most vegetable seedlings indoors for planting outdoors this spring. The exception is onions and leeks. Onions and leeks grown from seed need to grow indoors for up to twelve weeks before they're ready for outdoor planting. While you can purchase onion sets and seedlings of onions and leeks, growing them from seed offers several advantages. There are many more seed varieties available for onions and leeks than transplant varieties. Plus, it's more affordable to grow them from seed if you're growing a large planting. I like to grow a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=578 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=578 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Gardening with children is both rewarding and educational, as witnessed by the increasing number of elementary and even junior high and high schools that are creating a variety of gardens on their campuses. Proper planning of your school garden project is essential to ensure the best experience for everyone involved. Consider funding. PTAs and fundraisers are a good place to start, but also consider applying for grants and asking businesses to make donations or provide discounts for materials and plants. Parents can also sign up to donate a plant from a Plant Wish List, or contribute money to purchase a set http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=589 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=589 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT Craft projects are always a good midwinter activity to do with your kids to keep them engaged and excited. In most of the country February is not a prime gardening month, but there are some indoor gardening projects you can do with common household items that will be fun for your kids. One item that has many uses is the egg carton. Empty egg cartons can be used for a variety of plant projects. Here are some ideas to try out with your kids. Remember to let your children's creativity shine. They may come up with even more ideas for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=577 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=577 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CDT In some parts of the country, the end of January marks the time when cool-weather vegetables can be planted-and if you don't live in those areas, be patient because your time is coming soon. If you're like me and are fairly new to cool-season vegetable gardening, there are some basics that are good to know. What vegetables can be planted? The list is long for January planting. If you like salad greens, you're in luck-you can put in transplants of spinach, lettuce, cabbage, kohlrabi, and kale. But don't forget to plant broccoli, asparagus crowns, artichoke crowns, and onion sets. And hold http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=586 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=586 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT This is how new ideas strike me: I'm stuck inside on a cold or rainy day with no intention of going outside, and the creative itch starts. I want to plant or make something, but I have to make do with the materials I have on hand, so I start looking around closets, countertops, and cupboards. The most recent shopping-from-my-apartment excursion led me to my kitchen, where I found a number of unique and stylish planters for my collection of succulents and tillandsias. I had fun cooking up some interesting combinations, and here's how you can, too. Cups: I found a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=585 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=585 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Lawns are as all-American as apple pie, but over the last ten years there has been a movement to replace the front lawn with edible plants and flowers. Not only do yards look more attractive and appealing with flowers and edibles instead of lawns, but this practice also provides a way to grow food and beautiful flowers for your family and create a more diverse ecosystem. A diverse assortment of flowers creates a habitat where butterflies, birds, and insects can thrive. Here are some tips to help you get started on transforming your front yard into an edible and floral http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=573 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=573 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Winter is a perfect time to visit the public gardens in your area-not only are arboretums, botanical gardens, and wildflower centers a wonderful source of inspiration and information, but they get you outside to enjoy fresh air and the natural world around you. Most large cities have a couple of destinations for you to enjoy, and if you live in a more rural area, there is likely to be a public garden within driving distance. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your trip. Dress comfortably. You'll be walking outside, so dress accordingly. Comfortable flat shoes http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=584 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=584 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT One of the most popular additions to school lunch cafeterias is the salad bar. More and more schools are using salad bars as a way to ensure that kids have access to vegetables and fruits and consume less junk food. A fun and educational activity to do with your kids at home or in school is to experiment with the salad bar. The mainstay of a salad bar is lettuce. However, there are many other edible greens that are tasty in salads. Challenge your kids to come up with the names of different greens, have a taste test in class, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=572 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=572 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT There's nothing more aggravating than preparing to tend to a garden chore, only to find you don't really have the appropriate tool for the job. It's happened to me countless times, so I have learned along the way to stock up on the basics. It's not necessary to own every trendy or intricate tool on the market-although they are all fun to try out-but there are some basic tools that every gardener should have on hand. Here are my favorites. Bypass Pruners: This is the tool I reach for the most. Do yourself a favor and spend a bit of money http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=581 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=581 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT In many parts of the country, it's the perfect time to plant large trees and shrubs, and in addition to simple aesthetics there is another benefit to using these plants in your landscape. They can create what's called a "windbreak"-a deliberately planted line of trees and shrubs that can help to shield your house. From what, you might ask? Read on! Purpose of a Windbreak Windbreaks can help prevent wind from pummeling your house, thus lowering energy bills, preventing erosion, and providing food and cover for wildlife. The trees' and shrubs' roots help hold in the soil, which is especially helpful on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=580 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=580 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT If you're looking for a houseplant that does well in low light conditions and you don't need one that blooms, consider ferns. There are many different types of ferns to grow indoors, but most have the same requirements: low light, high humidity, and cool temperatures. It's best to grow ferns in a north- or east-facing window. A south- or west-facing window gets too much direct sun for these shade-lovers. Ferns love high humidity. That's why the tradition is to grow them in a bathroom that has a shower. Consider placing the fern pots on a pebble tray with water in it. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=566 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=566 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Some of us might be in a deep freeze, while others happily garden year-round without a care. Most of us are somewhere in the middle, but that doesn't mean we have to wait winter out. There are a number of garden activities you can do in January-check this list to see what can keep you busy in the garden for the next few weeks. Purchase dormant plants. In many areas of the country it's a perfect time to plant trees, shrubs, and perennials. If the ground in your area isn't frozen, plan to add some of these landscape plants-they'll establish their http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=579 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=579 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT In some gardening climates, it will soon be time to start seeds indoors for transplanting outdoors later in the season. But before you get too far into buying and starting seeds indoors, take this opportunity to teach your kids about the seedlings' requirements, such as light. Talking about the light needs of seedlings opens the door for experimentation on the effects of light on seedlings. First, you'll need some indoor lights. You can purchase regular shop lights with fluorescent bulbs and full-spectrum grow lights to compare growth rates. Once you have the lights, some seeds, potting soil, and containers, it's time http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=565 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=565 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT One of the trendiest plants in recent years for the home gardener is the succulent. These plants are easy to care for in both indoor and outdoor gardens, making them accessible for gardeners in all parts of the United States, no matter the season. Because they are so exotic looking, you might assume that they are high-maintenance plants, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Give them the proper care and they will flourish and even bloom for you with little effort. What are succulents? Succulents are a group of plants that hold water in their leaves, stems, and roots, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=576 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=576 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Have you ever seen a plant label that says, "This plant requires good soil drainage for best growth"? Soil drainage is one of the most basic of plant requirements, and poor soil drainage can kill plants faster than almost any other affliction. But what is poor soil drainage, how do you know when you have it, and, more importantly, what can you do to treat it? What is poor drainage? Poorly drained soil means that the soil either holds in too much water and it can't drain, or the soil can't retain enough water and the moisture runs right through it. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=575 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=575 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Plants naturally fascinate kids, but turning that fascination into academic learning in the classroom or at home takes some creativity. One fun activity that will help kids practice their research, writing, and geography skills is having them write a plant biography. Kids are well versed at writing biographies about famous people such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King. But what about plants? Plants have rich histories, too. They hail from certain areas of the world; are used for a variety of purposes such as food, clothing, and medicine; and have interesting stories associated with them. Here's how to get your kids http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=563 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=563 Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT You may have read or heard about something called Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and wondered what it's all about. While it sounds a bit intellectual and complex, it's really quite simple-and easy to confuse with other types of pest management and gardening. Here's a rundown of what it is, and what it means for you and your garden. IPM is an environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that incorporates a variety of commonsense methods. Simply put, if you have bugs in your garden that are causing problems, IPM can help you decide the best course of action to take, using the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=574 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=574 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT With the new year comes the introduction of new vegetable varieties. This year I was struck by some unusual tomato and pepper varieties. Tomatoes, of course, are the most popular vegetable grown by home gardeners, so there is always an abundance of new varieties. But peppers have become increasingly popular and hot peppers now join sweet peppers as one of the top ten most-grown vegetables in the country. So here are five new tomato and pepper varieties that are worth a try in your garden this summer. Remember that tomatoes and peppers need sun, warmth, water, and fertile soil http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=562 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=562 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Houseplants go through the wringer during the winter months. While some plants have always been indoors, others have been brought in for the winter, but all of these plants face tougher conditions now. Give your houseplants a little extra attention so they can weather the next few months. Light: Shorter winter days and longer nights equal less valuable light for houseplants. Move them closer to a bright window, but be careful about placing them directly on the windowsill, particularly with tropical plants. Colder air on the windowpanes can adversely affect tender plants, and drawing the curtains around the sill at night http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=571 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=571 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Now that you've made it through the holidays, your body might be begging you to be a little kinder to it. No more eggnog, cocktails, and decadent desserts for a while! Consider adding delicious juice mixtures to your diet a few times a week-a mix of vegetables and fruits can be just what you need to ease your body back onto a healthier track in the new year. You don't need an expensive juicer, either; a relatively inexpensive one will do the trick. Juicing is beneficial for many reasons, the most obvious being that you can drink a maximum of nutrients http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=570 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=570 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT This time of year I get itchy. The holidays are over and my attention is turning to planting seeds for the coming spring. While it's too early in most places to plant, being a little anxious about obtaining your seeds is a good thing. Seeds are starting to become available this month, and it's a good idea to get organized and buy seeds early, while the supplies are plentiful and all the varieties are available. Plus, some varieties will need to be started indoors soon. There are several factors to keep in mind when when selecting seeds. Check what you have. Sometimes http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=558 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=558 Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT Just when we get through all of the warm months with weeds that seem to multiply before our eyes, the winter weeds spring up. And as our lawn grasses move into their brown winter dormancy, winter weeds are all the more visible. What's a gardener to do? Don't give up! Arm yourself with winter weed knowledge to avoid having a weedy mess in your lawn. Winter Weeds: Keep an eye out for chickweed, annual bluegrass, milk thistle, henbit, and speedwell. Not only are these weeds unsightly, but they compete for precious sunlight, water, and soil nutrients, making grass green-up in the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=569 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=569 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT It's a new year and for gardeners that means it's the beginning of the bare-root rose season. Bare-root roses are starting to be available, depending on your location. Each year, new rose varieties are released that make great additions to your rose garden, perennial border, or shrub border. These roses have been trialed around the country and some are even award winners. While most new roses are in the hybrid tea and floribunda class, there always are a few new varieties in different classes that are fun to grow. Here's a rundown of some of the new roses to look for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=557 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=557 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT I find that my cooking, like my gardening, takes on a seasonal rhythm-in warmer months, I grill hamburgers and chicken, while during the cooler winter months I gravitate to more "homey" dishes like stews, soups, and pasta. And if you grew and dried your own herbs this past season, you are in luck. There are many year-round uses for your dried herbs, and creating herb blends for particular recipes is a fantastic way to extend your "growing" season. Here are some of my favorite blends, along with suggestions on how to use them. Store all herb blends in airtight containers. Herbes http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=568 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=568 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT I love my usual winter annuals-pansies, violas, snapdragons, alyssum, and cyclamen-but sometimes I just want something a bit different. I don't necessarily need plants that are exotic and hard to find-just something a bit out of the ordinary. Enter the English daisy! For gardeners in slightly warmer climates, this annual is perfect-and if you garden in a colder zone, consider adding this little charmer to your spring garden once the weather warms up. Appearance The little button-like flowers bloom in bright pink, white, or red; have small yellow centers; and are typically 1 to 2 inches wide. These little blooms sit atop http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=567 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=567 Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CDT We all try to make New Year's resolutions every year. I'm sure we could rattle off a dozen "good intentions" related to our yard and gardens that somehow never get done. This year let's try to be more realistic about our resolutions. Removing all the invasive plants from a hedgerow or forested area on your property may be a noble cause, but is it something you will really have time to do in one year? Here are some resolutions that I'm considering. Maybe they will inspire you to make some similar ones for your yard. Happy New Year! Make a plan. Too http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=553 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=553 Sat, 31 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT In most areas of the country, gardens have started winding down for the winter. Even in the warmer climates, we're usually not as busy as we are during the active growing season. But don't hang up your pruners just yet! Winter is the perfect time to make some assessments of your garden and to complete some simple chores to keep your garden healthy and on track. Here are a few ideas to get you going. Clean and sharpen tools. Remove dirt and debris from all your garden tools, and then oil and sharpen the blades as necessary. Buy a tool-sharpening kit http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=564 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=564 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT While many are still enjoying extended holiday cheer into New Year's, some are quickly moving on and taking down the holiday decorations. In my house I like to leave the holiday tree and decorations up for weeks after Christmas, but many folks like to bring the house back to a semblance of normalcy soon after the holiday. If you have a fresh-cut Christmas tree and fresh boughs, there are some good uses for them after the holidays that will help your garden, the birds, and the environment. If you burn wood for heat, one thing you don't want to do is http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=552 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=552 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT By now, most areas of the country have experienced a hard freeze-or eight. In all but the warmest subtropical parts of the United States, harsher winter weather is to be expected. But if you're a new gardener, or created a new garden bed last fall, you may have questions about how to care for your plants after a hard freeze. A hard freeze is any temperature below freezing (32 degrees F), and while many plants are adapted to that kind of weather, some are not. Here's how to assess if you have any damage the day after, and what to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=561 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=561 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes landscapers and garden designers use words or phrases that mean nothing to the rest of the world-like "architectural plants." But whether you pay a designer to create your garden or you're doing it yourself, this term is useful in understanding how plants make an impact. Architectural plants are those that typically have a dramatic form-they're bold, sassy, and impossible to miss in the landscape. Here are my favorites and how I use them in my gardens. Plants Some of the best architectural plants are in the agave and yucca family. Some of these are giants, while others are more human-sized, but http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=560 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=560 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Decorations abound during the holidays. Many decorations reflect family and cultural traditions passed down for generations. You can get your kids involved in these festivities by giving them a special assignment. Since food is such an integral part of most holiday traditions, one of the easiest and most rewarding decorations they can help with is a centerpiece for the holiday table. The centerpiece is the focal point of the table, adding beauty, cheer, and delight. It can also be a project that integrates family stories and memories. Creating a centerpiece can be a way for your children to start their own http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=547 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=547 Sat, 24 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT In the last few years, I've become enamored with moss. It started with moss rock-boulders covered with soft green moss-in my clients' gardens, and then it became a material that I reach for time and time again. Bagged moss is readily available, and I often pick up a few bags to have on hand "just in case." In case of what, you ask? Here are a few of the ways I use moss, lending a creative touch to both indoor and outdoor container gardens. As a Topdressing: Tear off smaller pieces of moss and tuck them around the base of potted http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=559 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=559 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Now that the cold weather is here and the lawn mower, tiller, and string trimmer are all put away for winter, it's time to look them over one last time so they will be ready to go in spring. Like hand tools, power equipment need attention now so they will be in working order when you need to rely on them in spring. There's nothing more frustrating than having a lawn that needs mowing but a mower that won't start. In spring, facilities that provide power equipment repair services are often booked, plus you usually have many other garden chores http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=546 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=546 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT The longer I garden, the more I collect tips from other gardeners that help me garden better, more quickly, or more efficiently. I love having that moment in garden chitchat when one of us exclaims, "I didn't know that!" or "That's a great idea!" Here are some of the best garden tips I've collected over the years. Some I learned from friends, others from my landscape crew, and still others I found on my own. Rinse rock before you use it. Most of the rock that is bought at a rock http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=556 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=556 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners have expanded their cool-season vegetable gardens to include kale. High in vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, and other cancer-fighting compounds, it's one of the most nutritious of the "super foods." If this is your first time growing kale, you may be unsure of how to cook with it, so here are some delicious suggestions for incorporating this leafy green into nearly any meal. Smoothies: Start your day right with a healthy green smoothie. Start with almond or soy milk, add a handful of washed kale, a banana, cucumber, and fresh or frozen berries, and blend until smooth. Try honey http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=555 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=555 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT The holidays can become a frenzy of gift planning and buying. For kids this can sometimes be too fast paced. To slow down and appreciate the holiday a little more, consider making some home garden crafts with your kids. Here are a few garden-based ideas that will add a little more meaning to the gifts your kids give this holiday season. Paint some pots. Gardeners all love to grow plants in clay pots. Have your kids select a few different-sized pots and, with poster paint or even permanent markers, paint and decorate clay pots to give as gifts. They can paint http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=541 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=541 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT There really is nothing like nandina (Nandina domestica) in the garden-this dynamic evergreen plant has year-round interest, tolerates a variety of growing conditions, and is available in a number of varieties. Although this plant needs to be pruned in a specific way, it's so easy to care for that you're sure to find a spot for it in your garden. Care: Nandinas will take full sun to part shade-and even a bit more shade if you live in an area with strong sun. Nandinas are fairly drought tolerant once established, so be wary of overwatering them. They are cold hardy to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=554 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=554 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many people love hybrid roses but shy away from them because of the care required. Most hybrid roses are hardy to Zones 5 or 6, depending on the variety. However, in these zones and colder, hybrid roses do need some help to make it through the winter. While modern landscape roses, such a the Knockout series, and old-fashioned species roses, such as Rosa rugosa, can survive most winters with little protection from the cold, modern hybrid roses are a little fussier. These rose varieties are usually grafted onto hardy and vigorous rootstocks. While the rootstocks help the rose grow strong http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=542 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=542 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Tired of the same old ferns for your indoor garden? I love my Boston and asparagus ferns and will never get rid of them, but sometimes it's good to break out of the tried and true and enjoy something different. Being an apartment dweller, I've begun experimenting with more unusual ferns lately-I love the different textures and leaf shapes. Here are my favorites. Bird's-Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus): There are a few different varieties of bird's-nest ferns, many with long lasagna-noodle leaves. Mine has foliage with ends that are split into three fringed segments, which is a refreshing change from the more http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=551 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=551 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's not often that you get to start over in a garden. However, if you're building a new house or have purchased a house on an open landscape, it's like working with a blank slate. While most gardeners would love to have such an open canvas to draw on, it can be overwhelming. As much as we complain about trees, walls, and outbuildings altering our plantings, at least we have the "bones" of the garden to work around. In an open meadow or around a newly built home, the flat barrenness creates its own challenges. It's important to take the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=537 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=537 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT The cooler months are upon us, and while we can curl up inside with a bowl of stew or chili, our feathered friends are scratching around for food outside. Depending upon the weather, some winters are harder than others on wildlife-so let's give the birds something to chirp about with these winter food ideas. Pinecone Treats: Spread natural peanut butter (no added sugar) on a pinecone and then roll the pinecone in birdseed. Make a loop of twine to hang the pinecone on your tree. Strings of Food: String popcorn and unsweetened "O" cereal like Cheerios on pieces of yarn, string, or http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=549 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=549 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT While most school and home vegetable gardens are finished for the season, if you planted a fall crop of root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and parsnips, you can teach your kids about storing them in the ground. As long as you can prevent the soil from freezing solid and thawing, these roots store well in the soil and can be dug out in winter for a sweet-tasting snack. Introduce this idea to your kids by talking about what vegetables need to stay crisp and fresh. Ask them about the temperature at which they find vegetables in the grocery store. Explain http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=536 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=536 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Have you ever seen a garden that, in theory, should look spectacular-but doesn't? The scale is right, the plants look gorgeous together, and the house is beautiful. So what's the problem? Often, it's the colors-specifically, the color of the house doesn't work with the color of the plants or other garden materials. There's a bit of a trick to blending all of these different materials, but you can do it if you keep the big picture in mind. Here's how: What is your house color? You must start here, because you can't easily change the color of your house. Doors and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=545 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=545 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Why buy pricey bagged soil amendments when you can easily make your own? Stop throwing out your kitchen scraps and bagging up your leaves-it's time to get composting! When to Start a Compost Pile: Although you can start a compost pile at any time of the year, fall is the perfect time. Both nitrogen from cool-season lawn mowing and carbon from fallen leaves are readily available in the fall, and these are two ingredients that are essential for successful composting. Where to Build Your Pile: Choose a spot that is easily accessible and is in an area that receives some dappled shade http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=544 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=544 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's hard to believe, but yes, the snows of winter will soon be upon us. For plants that are adapted to your climate and have already naturally hardened off due to the cool weather and short days of fall, winter isn't a problem, except when they get a heavy snow or ice load on them. Snow and ice piling on trees and shrubs can easily break branches, snap limbs, and deform a beautiful shrub or tree. While you can't stop the snow and ice from falling, you can protect specific shrubs and trees from extensive damage. Shrubs planted along the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=532 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=532 Sat, 03 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT I wonder if you've had the same experience I've had-around the holidays, I begin to see recipes that include vanilla beans or seeded vanilla beans, but I don't know where to get them, how to seed them, or how to use them. So I did some checking around, and now I feel like a whole new vanilla-flavored world has opened up to me. I didn't find my vanilla beans at my regular grocery store, and you probably won't, either. Look for them in specialty or gourmet food stores, or if you live in a more rural area without access to specialty http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=543 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=543 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT We've all heard of Christmas cactus, but what about Thanksgiving cactus? I didn't know there was such a thing until last week, when I visited a friend's greenhouse. Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is very similar to Christmas cactus (Shlumbergera bridgesii), but each foliage segment has more deeply indented stems and blooms that grow more upright. In fact, the stems' very distinctive look leads to its nickname of "crab cactus." It blooms in late fall, earlier than Christmas cactus, and is so easy to grow that I'm planning to get a cutting next spring to add to my own houseplant collection. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=548 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=548 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CDT Even though the garden may be resting for winter, the avid gardener probably is not. One of the often-forgotten tasks for this time of year is cleaning and sharpening your hand tools. Your hand tools are essential helpers in a healthy garden, so they deserve some care and pampering once their main work is done. However, most gardeners just pile up their hand tools in a corner of the garage or shed after they're done gardening for the season and don't think about them again until spring. It's better to give your tools some attention. Metal blades that have soil left http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=531 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=531 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Late autumn is a great time for pruning trees-with leaves on the ground instead of on the tree limbs, we're better able to observe the tree's form and look for any unhealthy growth. Plus, pruning during the dormant season minimizes sap loss and any subsequent stress to the tree. But don't just grab your pruners and start cutting. You need to understand the rhyme and reason behind tree pruning in order to get the best results. Which trees can be pruned now? It's always best to consult local plant and tree experts about timing for pruning, as some fruit and nut http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=550 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=550 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Most people love tasty French fries, but if you're looking for a healthier option for you and your family, consider the sweet potato. Sweet potato fries have been around for a long time, but I'm surprised at how few people actually make these themselves. If it's for lack of a good recipe, then look no further. This recipe is mother-tested and teenage-son-approved, making it a perfect addition to your harvest menu. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin B6, and potassium, as well as being very high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese. They are also low in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=540 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=540 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT When seasons change, it's a great time to get outside, enjoy more mild temperatures, and observe the beautiful sights and sounds around you. And don't think you need to live by the woods or drive for hours for a nature walk-I went on one last week in my suburban neighborhood and had an incredible time. Where to Go: Your local park is a good place to start, as is a botanical garden or nearby woods. But don't overlook your own neighborhood-just walking around the block can be a rewarding trek full of sights and sounds. Every location has plants and animals http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=539 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=539 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT We all know ladybugs as those wonderful beneficial insects that love to help gardeners by eating aphids and soft-shelled scale in the garden. However, there is a new ladybug in town that, although beneficial, has become a nuisance in fall and winter as it looks for the best places to overwinter. This Asian native normally overwinters on trees and logs in the forest, but in our country it has taken to overwintering in houses and buildings. This Asian ladybug is indistinguishable from the native to most people. Come the cooler, shorter days of fall, on warm, sunny afternoons the ladybugs look http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=527 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=527 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Get those suckers out of here! Tree suckers, that is. Tree suckers are those strange growths that shoot out of the bottom of your tree's trunk. I say "strange" because they often look like a totally different plant than the growth at the top, like some science fair project gone awry. So what are tree suckers and how do you deal with them? What are they? Suckers are growth from the base or the bottom part of a tree's trunk. The suckers often grow in a ramrod-straight, upward pattern, look different from the rest of the tree's growth, and detract from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=538 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=538 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT As the holidays approach, there are certain signature plants that we all recognize. One is the Christmas cactus. Programmed to bloom between Thanksgiving and midwinter, the modern Christmas cactus is usually a hybrid of three different types. The Thanksgiving cactus, the earliest bloomer, flowers in November. The Christmas cactus blooms closer to the end of the year, and the Easter cactus more of a midwinter bloomer. This variation and their reliable flowering habit make these cacti perfect plants to teach kids about plant science. The Christmas cactus forms its flower buds in response to cool air temperatures and/or lengthening periods of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=526 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=526 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT There are many commercial compost bins on the market that will help you create valuable soil amendments for your garden, but if you are handy and like to make things yourself, there are a number of options available to you. From the simple to the more complex, a compost bin is still a fairly rustic mechanism and fairly easy to construct. Pallet Bin You know the wooden pallets that stack up behind grocery stores or home improvement centers? Ask the store if you can have three of them, and you're ready to build a bin. Inspect the pallets for loose nails (remove http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=535 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=535 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT This is the time of year when gardeners shop for trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials to add to their garden. But if you're a new gardener, you may find it a bit overwhelming-so many plants, colors, and varieties! Don't lose your head, though. To make the best choice when purchasing a plant, start with the information on the tag; it will tell you most of what you need to know. Growth: Look for information about how tall and wide the plant will get. The last thing you want to do is buy a little plant that will grow to 10 feet http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=534 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=534 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Your vegetable garden can be extended well into fall with a little foresight and planning. If you planted fall crops of greens such as spinach, arugula, and kale, they should be thriving during the cooler weather. But eventually they will need some protection, especially if you're gardening in a cold-winter climate. Mild-winter gardeners can get away with just light protection in December and January for chilly weather. However, gardeners in most parts of the country will need a better plan. Here are some ideas for protecting your winter greens so you can harvest them in early winter and spring. Grow your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=522 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=522 Sat, 19 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Now, don't misunderstand me, I like a good hedge on occasion. There are times in a landscape when a tightly clipped evergreen hedge is the perfect choice. What bothers me is when gardeners use the hedge as their only option just because that's what their neighbors do. If you're looking to give the front of your house an update, start with your foundation planting-the landscaping up close to your house's foundation-and go from there. Here are some tips to get you going: Look at the architecture. If your house is formal and symmetrical, here's where a hedge can make sense. But http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=533 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=533 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT The general feeling among gardeners is the landscape is pretty boring in winter. The leaves have dropped, the perennial and annual flowers are gone, and aside from a few shrubs and trees with berries on them, the dominant color in most of the country is brown. If you're been gardening with your kids, it's easy to take the winter off. It's hard to get kids excited about the landscape and garden this time of year, and it can be challenging to find outdoor activities that will interest them once the crops have been harvested and the flowers have faded. But if http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=521 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=521 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Here's a trick for container plantings: just pick three plants. Sometimes I like to add many different plants to a container to give it that "crazy quilt" effect, but often simple combinations of just three plants are just as striking. There are many reasons why: planting in threes upholds the design rule of using odd numbers, it's easy to choose three plants that combine well together, and your eye focuses very quickly on a simple yet graphic planting combo. But which three? As long as the plants you choose have the same requirements for care (sunlight and watering), the sky's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=530 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=530 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT With everyone carving and cooking pumpkins in October and November, there are enough pumpkin seeds to go around. Instead of throwing them out, why not toast them? I admit, I'd never toasted pumpkin seeds before this year, but I'd been reading about how healthy they are, so I thought I'd give it a try. Start with this basic recipe for an easy, delicious harvest snack, and then experiment with various seasonings and spices. Toasted Pumpkin Seeds 1 medium-sized pumpkin Salt 1 tablespoon olive oil Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cut open the pumpkin and, using a strong http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=529 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=529 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Often kids want to garden and teachers want to use the garden in their curriculum, but limitations and restrictions for using school grounds can lead to frustration and inaction. One possible solution is to consult with your local library. More and more libraries across the country are starting to use their grounds for hands-on education. Creating a kids' library garden is one way to get more kids gardening, learning, and using the library. As with most volunteer projects, all it takes is some vision, gumption, and hard work from a small vocal group to get a library garden started. Getting kids http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=517 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=517 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Anyone who has gardened in pots and containers knows that watering can be a bit of a hassle. And by "a bit of a hassle," I actually mean a real pain in the neck. There are definitely some tricks and shortcuts to keeping potted gardens hydrated, and after three years of apartment dwelling and balcony gardening, I've figured out a few of them. Here are my favorite hints, but remember that container watering is an art, not a science, so there are always ways to change it up and find what works best for your environment. Start http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=528 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=528 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT In most parts of the country gardens are winding down and fall is a good time of year to prepare your beds for next spring's planting. Cleaning out perennial weeds such as dandelions and burdock, mulching, adding compost, and removing dead plants are all good fall activities. But this is also a good time to prepare new planting beds. When planning a new planting bed, the temptation is to strip the sod and bring in compost and new topsoil. This method can be backbreaking work and it removes the precious topsoil and organic matter right under the sod. A better way http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=516 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=516 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Whether your potted plants are tucked into a corner of your patio or safely sheltered inside your house, there are tricks to ensuring your all-green combinations don't suffer from the doldrums. To make sure your plants don't bore you, run your container plantings through this checklist to verify that they're up to par. Vary the leaves. Leaf shapes are numerous-long and strappy, tiny and round, medium and oval-so aim for including three leaf sizes and shapes to up the ante in your planter. For example, liriopes and Aztec grasses have long, strappy leaves that will combine well with the small, rounded, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=525 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=525 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT I love my small houseplants. They fill those little nooks and crannies and provide textural interest up close. But sometimes I want a houseplant to be a drama queen, commanding attention and making a statement. That's when I pull out the big guns-the plants with some height and width. They can set off a corner of your living room or fill out a tall wall, creating dramatic shadows with their striking limbs and leaves. Here are some of my favorites-and did I mention they're easy to care for? Score! Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata): This fast-growing tropical is a popular houseplant, reaching http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=524 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=524 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT The next time you're at the grocery store or farmers' market, pick up a few extra pumpkins to cook with. Pumpkins are one of the most nutritious foods out there, loaded with antioxidants, beta-carotene, folate, iron, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Although both the flesh and the seeds are good for you, not all pumpkins are created equal. Most of the pumpkin patch varieties are awesome for carving, but not for eating. Here's a rundown on some of the best varieties for use in the kitchen: Seed Roasting: Seeds are actually one of the best parts of pumpkins, and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=523 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=523 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT Although October is the time to plant spring-blooming bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and crocus, you should also consider planting bulbs that bloom in summer and fall. Most gardeners know that summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies, gladiolus (corms), and dahlias (tubers) are planted in spring for a mid- to late-summer bloom, depending on the region. However, fewer gardeners realize there are fall-blooming bulbs as well. These bulbs are a great way to add a splash of color to your garden and landscape while the leaves are dropping and the dominant color in the yard is brown. Here are two fall-blooming http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=512 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=512 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's a rare garden that is totally level and flat-most landscapes have some amount of slope or incline. This doesn't have to be a bad thing; in fact, some changes in grade can make for an interesting and dynamic garden. However, if your slope is causing problems-such as erosion, drainage issues, or safety hazards-there are a number of ways you can deal with it. Here are the most common and effective treatments for slopey issues. Terracing Terracing is one of the best options if you have a steep slope and would like to be able to access all parts of your property. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=520 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=520 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT While spring's blooms have a newness and sweetness about them, autumn flowers possess richness with their golden hues. Here are some of the best fall-flowering perennials for golden color-if you don't have them in your garden yet, now is the perfect time to plant them. Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa): There are many different varieties of goldenrod, growing from a mere 6 inches to up to 6 feet tall, in Zones 4-9. This plant is often mistakenly blamed for allergies, but in reality the pollen is too heavy to fly. Goldenrod will naturalize out in the open, but residential gardeners should look for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=519 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=519 Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's tempting, I know. You've nursed that eggplant, tomato, or pepper plant all summer and fall, and now that frost is in the air and you've managed to keep it alive, you want to bring it indoors like a pampered pet. Some vegetables, such as eggplant and peppers, are technically perennials and can surive if they are not killed by frost, diseases, or insects; however, keeping them alive in winter in a northern climate is a challenge. In a mild climate, it's easy to protect these plants from the cold. You may have to move them into a protected location during http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=510 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=510 Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes a gardener needs a quick, simple project in the garden to feel accomplished. Call it instant gratification if you will, but so many garden activities force you to take such a long-term approach (planting bulbs for next spring, amending the soil, starting seeds) that it's immensely satisfying to start and complete a project within an hour. And now that harvest time is upon us, I've got a stunning project for you that will take twenty minutes and cost under $30. Ever heard of a pumpkin topiary? Just start with a tall planter or plant stand, and you can create http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=518 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=518 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall can offer some interesting and surprising visuals in the garden. Color combinations, in particular, often surprise me. As shrubs and perennial flowers turn their fall colors, they contrast beautifully with other edibles and ornamentals in the garden. Mother Nature gives us an opportunity to engage kids in her color game. It's good to train a young eye early in life to identify plants and appreciate the beauty of natural colors. You can use the garden and nature to teach kids about colors. Here's how: In the class or home, create a handout listing the different colors. Using your school garden or http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=506 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=506 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Autumn is a cozy time for cooking and baking-the ingredients are often simple and even rustic, but the recipes are easy to prepare and a joy to serve. Gather your family around the table tonight for a comforting serving of baked apples with your choice of traditional whipped cream or a luscious dollop of caramel sauce. Baked Apples 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 cup sugar 6 same-size Granny Smith apples or other baking apples 2 tablespoons butter, cut into 6 teaspoon-size pieces 1 cup apple juice 6 sprigs fresh mint Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=515 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=515 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT No matter where you live, fall is the perfect planting time for trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials. However, we often tend to gravitate toward the plants that provide a gorgeous floral display in the warmer months, forgetting other plants that can offer year-round interest. Consider incorporating some of these into your garden this fall and you'll be treated to a winter full of interesting foliage textures and colors. Ornamental Grasses Why people cut their ornamental grasses back in fall is a mystery to me. Don't forego months of winter interest simply because you see your neighbors cutting their grasses back. Wait http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=514 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=514 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall is the time to cut back plants in the perennial garden, clean up weeds, add compost, and generally get the soil and plants ready for winter. But don't be too quick to cut every perennial flower back to the ground just yet. While most gardeners grow perennial flowers for their colorful blooms, varied leaf textures, and interesting growth habits, another reason to grow perennials is to provide seedheads for the birds. The spent flower heads of many perenniasl are a perfect feeding station for small birds. Finches, sparrows, and chickadees rely on these seedheads for fall and winter food. Plus, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=505 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=505 Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Ready for an easy garden project? I've been creating dish planters for several years now, using the saucers that are typically relegated to catching water underneath flowerpots. I recently created one in an afternoon using readily available materials. If you're looking for an easy, fast, and inexpensive garden project, this one is calling your name. Materials One large saucer, either terracotta or glazed ceramic, at least 18 inches in diameter Several small terracotta pots, 2 inches in diameter (the number will depend upon how big your saucer is) Several 2-inch succulents or cacti (the same number as the small terracotta pots) Well-draining potting soil (cacti http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=513 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=513 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall is for harvesting and with an abundance of produce in the kitchen, it's time to get cooking. Now is the perfect time to introduce some basic cooking skills to your kids. Using fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden or fresh apples, pears, and raspberries from your yard or the local farm, you can whip up some tasty and simple dishes that your kids will love. The best way to ensure they will try these healthful meals is to include them in the meal preparation. Here are some ways to get your young kids excited about cooking: Keep the tasks http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=501 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=501 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Autumn ushers in an entire season of comfort food-warm stews, breads fresh from the oven, and harvest fruits and vegetables. Simple but savory meals allow us to gather around a table with family and friends, enjoying conversation rather than cooking and cleaning up. With many apple varieties coming into season, it's a perfect time to try a one-dish apple frittata. Here's one recipe for a simple meal, and another for a tasty dessert. Apple-Cheddar Frittata 8 large eggs plus 2 large egg whites 4 ounces white Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (1 cup), divided Coarse salt and ground pepper 1 tablespoon butter 2 Gala apples, peeled, cored, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=509 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=509 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Autumn is apple-harvesting time. A trip to the farmers' market or grocery store will reveal dozens of apple varieties for harvest cooking- just the thought of pies, cobblers, applesauce, and cider makes us feel all warm and cozy. But which apples should you use for which recipe? After all, some apples are sweet while others are crisp and tart, and some are red while others are green, gold, or even pink. Does it make a difference which apple you choose for a recipe? Yes! Follow this handy guide when reaching for your favorite apple recipe this fall. Baking: Pies, cobblers, crisps, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=508 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=508 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall is for planting spring-flowering bulbs. While tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths get all the attention, there are a host of other small bulbs that are worth planting, too. These bulbs don't produce the big splashy flowers of tulips and daffodils, but they are great for naturalizing in lawns and gardens. They have a strength in numbers. When planted in masses, they produce a dramatic effect of color that can rival even the best tulip bed. Many bloom early in spring and provide a welcome respite from the cold, ble;ak winter. Here are some of the small bulbs to plant in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=500 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=500 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Your lawn has taken a beating this summer. It has been the scene of football games with the kids, fetch with the dog, and countless family gatherings. And your lawn has handled all of that in the sun and heat. So let's give it a round of applause and a much-needed rest- October is the perfect month to give your lawn a little extra care. Follow these lawn care tips to make your grass the healthiest it can be. Rake: Rake all of your fallen leaves up, and either bag them or add them to the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=507 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=507 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT While most kids are familiar with picking and eating berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, a number of less familiar berries found in the wild and in landscapes are important foods not for people, but for wildlife. It's good to spend some time teaching your kids about wild and landscape plants that produce berries for the birds. Dogwood, aronia, and viburnum are some of the berry-loaded plants that you'll commonly find in the wild and planted around homes and buildings. While some of these berries are edible for humans with a little cooking and sweetening, the birds are the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=496 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=496 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Every fall, when the weather starts changing and getting cooler, there's a bit of a panic in the garden. Will my plants die in the cold weather? Which plants can I leave outside? Can I bring some inside? When do I do that? How do I do that? While there are exceptions to every garden rule, depending upon where you live, there are some generally accepted guidelines about how and when to take plants indoors. Plants to Take in: Some tender perennials like palms, croton, hibiscus, and clerodendrum can be brought in successfully. Other flowering plants such as begonias, geraniums, and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=504 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=504 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT What comes to mind when you think of a meadow? Most people envision a wild, open area with grassy growth and maybe some flowers, interspersed with a healthy dose of weeds. Many home gardeners are planting meadows in their back and front yards, and they are anything but a weedy mess. Meadows are a great way to get a more natural look for your garden, and provide a unique opportunity to decrease your lawn area. It takes a bit of work to get a meadow going, but it can be one of the most stunning gardens you've ever created. Follow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=503 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=503 Sun, 09 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT I recently was hiking in Canyonlands National Park and was struck by the beauty of the wild asters. While grown around the world in various forms, the aster is a native American perennial flower that blooms from late summer until frost. It is also known as the Michaelmas daisy because asters usually are in full bloom on the Feast of Saint Michael at the end of September. They are a well adapted plant, growing in my home state of Vermont as well as dry desert climates like Utah. They grow strong all summer, but don't offer much in terms of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=495 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=495 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Remember last spring when you saw that great display of tulips and daffodils in your neighbor's garden, and you vowed to add some bulbs to your own garden? Well, now's the time. Every garden should have some bulbs-they are easy to plant and grow, and for the money spent, give the most bang for the buck. Here's how to do it: Know your area's average freeze date. Some regions never have frozen ground, while others expect it every winter. You'll want to plant your bulbs six http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=502 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=502 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall isn't complete without kids, pumpkins, and fun decorating activities. When my daughter was young, I always grew pumpkins for her to decorate in October. The idea of eating the pumpkin was farthest from her mind as she painted and carved her pumpkin collection. Before setting your kids loose in the pumpkin patch, you should offer some guidance for decorating the fruits. To avoid argments later, have kids select pumpkins in the patch to decorate before they are ripe. Don't encourage kids to harvest until these fruits start to turn their mature color. Pumpkins will continue to mature and color up after http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=489 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=489 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're going for the rain forest look and love lush, green foliage, ferns are for you. And fortunately, they are fairly easy to grow. Gardeners in most areas of the country can grow them, although if you live in an extremely arid region, you might opt to enjoy them as houseplants indoors. Here's what you need to know to get a bit of the tropics into your own space. Soil: Ferns love nutrient-rich soil, so if you need to amend yours, reach for compost or peat moss. Well-draining soil is a must, so make sure your soil can retain moisture http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=499 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=499 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners go to extreme lengths to attract birds to their gardens, but they may already have some feathered friends that they don't know about. Owls, particularly screech owls, are a valuable presence in the landscape-they hunt pesky creatures like voles, mice, rodents, and insects that cause damage to our gardens and houses. Here's how to attract them to your outdoor space. Cover: If you have some wooded areas (groves of trees) and wide open, grassy spaces, you already have the makings of a great owl habitat. Owls also like to make their homes in trees that are partially rotted out http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=498 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=498 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Most people think of the fruits of fall as pears and apples. But grapes should also be included in this category. Grapes are one of the easiest small fruits to grow in the home landscape. Whether you're interested in growing grapes for eating fresh from the vine, making juice, or making wine, you can find varieties that are adapted to almost any climate. While grapes are famous for growing well in warm, sunny, dry summer climates such as California, there are grape types that grow well in the humid Southeast and North. Muscadine grapes grow well in the warm, humid conditions http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=488 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=488 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT Gardeners are all about recycling. You take your fallen leaves and spent flowers, and throw them in the compost pile to make the perfect soil amendment for next year. Or you take clippings from your rosebushes and root them or give them away to your neighbor. But did you know you can recycle much more than just plants in the garden? So many items that used to have another life can find a place in your landscape-you just have to think about them a bit differently. Here are some ideas to try. Recycled Tires: Many products are recycled from old tires-rubber http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=497 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=497 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT The soul of your garden is the soil. Fall is the perfect time to feed your garden's soul by sowing a cover crop. Winter cover crops are legumes and grains that are sown to germinate in fall. Most can overwinter even in cold climates and will continue growing in early spring. The cover crop is then tilled or turned under at least two to three weeks before spring planting. One benefit of cover crops is that they add organic matter to the soil. Organic matter breaks down into humus and humic acids, which help the plants take up water and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=486 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=486 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT So many of us have large garden projects that are hanging over our heads-that chicken coop you started last spring or the raised beds that aren't put together yet. Here's an idea-promise yourself you'll complete one of those this month, but in the meantime, I've got a little garden project that will take less than an afternoon to put together. Sometimes a little sense of accomplishment is all you need to get back on track. The basics are this: one shallow saucer, one succulent plant, some soil, and some pebbles. That's it. Once you have these materials, you can get a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=494 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=494 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Gardening is a hot topic these days, but discussions on gardening raise a variety of questions for new gardeners. The gardening terms that are thrown around among more experienced gardeners can be confusing to the uninitiated. Here are some of the more common terms to bone up on, so the next time you're shopping for plants or chatting with your gardening neighbors, you'll know what everyone's talking about. Annuals: These are the plants, usually flowering, that complete their life cycle in one growing season, like pansies, petunias, snapdragons, violas, and alyssum. When they are done blooming after several months, they will http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=493 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=493 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT As the herb garden winds down for the season, a fun activity to do with your kids is to harvest herbs for storage and usage throughout the winter. At this time of year, kids may be more enthusiastic about giant pumpkins, unusual gourds, and tall cornstalks, but spending a little time teaching them how to harvest and store herbs for winter promotes the idea of cooking and proper nutrition even when the garden is dormant. There are several ways to include your kids in the process of harvesting and storing herbs. Herb Leaves The simplest way to harvest and store herbs is http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=485 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=485 Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many times, potential clients call me in to "fix" landscape problems created either by a well-meaning DIY project or even by other landscapers. I see a lot of issues when I first arrive, but there's one I consistently observe in gardens that many homeowners are unaware of-landscaping around the utilities. These utilities and boxes have a job to do, so here's what you need to know when landscaping around them. Air Conditioners: Usually this unit is located on the side of the house, and if you would like to hide it altogether, you can add a screen around it before continuing http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=492 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=492 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall is a great time of year to introduce the idea of cooking to your kids. Kids that learn to cook and help out in the kitchen at an early age have a better appreciation of food and healthy eating. Cooking is also a great way to spend time with your children and promote family togetherness. Even young kids can help out in the kitchen. As they grow, you can increase the number and complexity of the tasks. Using the garden as a motivator, have kids go out and collect vegetables, fruits, and herbs for that day's meal. Here are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=481 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=481 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Recently, a client gave me her jade plant-she doesn't like houseplants and didn't want to tend to it. Despite my reassurances that it was very low maintenance, she said if I didn't take it, she would just throw it out. Since I couldn't convince her, I'm going to convince you of how easy jade plants are to care for. After all, jade plants can live for years in gardeners' homes, so what better testament do you need? Here's the skinny: Water: One of the best features of the jade plant is its drought tolerance. It requires only an occasional watering and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=491 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=491 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT This year has been a year of very strange weather patterns around the nation-while some areas are deluged with unrelenting rain and storms, other areas haven't seen a drop of rain in months. To make matters worse, many of these drought-stricken regions have also been hit with extremely high heat. For many gardeners, their first thoughts go to saving those beautiful flowering perennials-after all, these are the plants that show us quickly that they're not happy. However, the plants that might appear to be happy campers-our valuable landscape trees-should not be overlooked during times of heat and drought. These established trees http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=490 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=490 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT We normally think of raspberries as being a midsummer treat, but with the introduction of new varieties in the last twenty years, fall can be raspberry time, too. Fall-bearing raspberries (also called everbearing) produce fruit in summer and fall, extending the berry season until frost. Fall-bearing varieties such a 'Fall Red', 'Fall Gold', and 'Autumn Bliss' are planted and grown like summer-bearing raspberries. Choose a well-drained location with fertile soil in full sun to plant in spring. Space your plants 2 to 3 feet apart in rows spaced 8 feet apart. Keep the plants well watered and mulch with sawdust, straw, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=480 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=480 Sat, 17 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT We love our evergreens. They're the backbone of our gardens, providing a perfect structure to show off our ornamental perennials, grasses, and annuals. Sometimes, though, our attempts to gently shape these smaller trees and shrubs make them look like horticultural aliens or characters from a Dr. Seuss book. So how do you correctly prune these plants? Here are some tips to keep your landscape evergreens looking shapely. Sheared Hedging: Hedges work particularly well if your garden is a bit more formal and symmetrical. Shearing your shrubs http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=487 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=487 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT The school and home garden can be a place for teaching about nutrition and nature. It also offers a great way to teach kids about social issues such as hunger. With the anemic economy, more and more families are having to rely on food shelves and pantries to get by. It's estimated that 1 out of 6 Americans, including more than 17 million kids, live in food-insecure households. A "food-insecure household" is a home where one or more household members was hungry at some time during the year because the household could not afford enough food. Kids not directly involved http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=476 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=476 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fall is around the corner, and with it a variety of autumn tasks. One essential activity is mulching-mulch holds down weeds, maintains soil moisture, and provides plants with a valuable insulating blanket through the winter months. But what kind should you use? While many areas of the country have their own regional mulches, there are more options than the standard bark chips. In fact, some options are a bit creative while others give a nod to sustainability. Read on for more information on the wide array of mulch types for your garden. Hardwood: A high-quality hardwood shredded http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=484 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=484 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're looking for a calming, serene style for your landscape, you should consider creating an Asian or Zen garden. Although the beauty of this type of garden lies in its simplicity, don't mistake it for being boring or plain. The Zen garden is rich in symbolism and layers, but doesn't need to be terribly difficult to put together. Here are some common elements to incorporate to add a bit of Asian flair to your garden. Plants: Evergreen plants are the hallmark of the Zen garden. Junipers, cypresses, nandinas, and bamboo form the backdrop http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=483 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=483 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT We've been enjoying the sweet, juicy flavor of sweet corn all summer. But soon the fall weather will come and the corn harvest will be a memory. Fortuntately, sweet corn is easy to process and store. Properly stored sweet corn allows you to enjoy that delicious corn flavor all winter without having to shop in the frozen food section for packages of sweet corn harvested from across the country or globe. The first step is to harvest sweet corn at the proper time. Sweet corn ears are ready to harvest when the silks (hairs) have turned brown and the ears have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=475 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=475 Sat, 10 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT In many areas, September is a great time to start planting trees. Even if you live in a warmer climate and your tree-planting time is not for another month or so, you can start planning what new trees you want to incorporate into your landscape. However, this can be a confusing endeavor-there are so many types of trees, with such a variety of sizes and features. Check out this list to help you make the best decision for your landscape. Big or small? Trees can range from 8 feet tall to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=482 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=482 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT The end of summer signals a time when the warm-season crops, such as sweet and hot peppers, are pouring in from the garden. Whether you're growing bell peppers, Italian frying peppers, or tiny hot peppers, now is the time to stay on top of the harvest and store some of these fruits for winter use. The sweet peppers come in many colors and most end up maturing to red. While picking them at their colorful orange, yellow, lilac, chocolate, or white stages makes for interesting and tasty salads and dinners, the best flavor and nutrition is found in the fully mature http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=471 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=471 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT There's something to be said for bringing the outdoors in-we all love our perennial beds and vegetable gardens, but what about inside our houses? There are many opportunities to create vignettes in windows and on tabletops-but other unused spaces can also be great spots for indoor gardens. Take your fireplace mantel-it's often a place for photographs and trinkets, but when you add plants, a soft organic feel is created in a space where people like to gather. Here are some ideas to whet your appetite. Pots: Choose traditional planters in stone or elegant black or copper, or use planters in artistic http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=479 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=479 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT Years ago when I started my first vegetable garden, I had sixty-five-year-old Ernest next door as my mentor. He actually went with me to purchase seeds for growing okra, green beans, squash, and pumpkins, and he kindly resisted snickering when I asked him to help me sow them. I'd grown up in the city and had no point of reference for any activity as basic as sowing seeds in a garden. While some vegetables fare better when purchased as transplants, and others can be started indoors before the season really gears up, many vegetables do very well when planted directly into http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=478 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=478 Sun, 04 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT The kids are back at school and wanting to explore the school vegetable garden that has been growing all summer. This time of year it is probably still loaded with tomatoes, peppers, carrots, squash, cucumbers, greens, and herbs. Before you set the kids lose in the garden to harvest for the classroom, home, and the cafeteria, take this opportunity to turn harvesting into an educational event. Organize an eat-a-rainbow scavenger hunt. The eat-a-rainbow principle encourages young kids to eat different-colored vegetables each day to ensure they get a balance of nutrients while eating fresh produce. Here's how to organize the hunt: Arrange http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=470 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=470 Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT When gardeners downsize from larger houses to condos, lofts, and apartments, the scope of their gardening changes also. While they once had expansive backyards for perennial beds and vegetables, they now have balconies and terraces. If you find yourself in this situation, keep in mind some practical aspects of gardening up high-here are some tips from a gardener who's been there. Watering: Watering can be a real challenge for balcony gardeners; when the weather heats up, it's not uncommon for plants to require watering once a day or even more. Use http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=477 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=477 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's hard to keep up with the harvest this time of year. With tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peppers, and many other vegetables crowding the refrigerator, it's hard to find space other crops such as blueberries and raspberries. While meals are loaded with vegetables and fruits and you can give away some of the bounty to neighbors, friends, family, and the local food shelf, it's also good to think ahead. In many parts of the country, fall and winter mean a fresh food desert, with little produce coming from the garden. A way to preserve this bounty, save money, and enjoy http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=466 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=466 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT We're so used to seeing many different colors in our gardens that the thought of simply using one color may seem a bit boring. But don't judge the idea just yet-what might appear to be a lack of color interest and pizzazz can actually be quite stunning and elegant. The key to pulling off monochromatic, or all-one-color, planting schemes is simple: pay attention to the full range of hues and textures. Check out these winning combos for your container plantings or perennial and annual beds; you might be surprised at how effective they are. As always, check the sun and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=474 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=474 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT As fall approaches, it's a great time to take stock of where your garden is and where you want it to be. What plants did well this year? What new tree do you want to try? Maybe those ferns need to be moved to that shadier area of the garden, or perhaps it's time to consider adding edibles like vegetables and fruit trees. With all the changing, moving, and amending we do in our gardens, it's easy to overlook the irrigation. Some parts of your garden might need more water, while others might need a different watering method. Check out http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=473 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=473 Sun, 28 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT The iris is one of those flowers that we love in spring, but then forget come summer. If your bearded irises flowered beautifully in spring, there is little to do with the plants for the rest of the summer until the foliage needs to be cut back in fall. However, if your bearded irises didn't flower well or seem overcrowded, then summer is the time to fix the problem. It's just a matter of remembering. Luckily, you can tell if your bearded irises need help just by looking at the plants. If your bearded iris plants have a dead area http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=465 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=465 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT After ten years in the landscape design business, there are several design lessons that I've learned the hard way. There were times when I tried to do something cool and it didn't turn out cool at all. So I made notes about what went wrong, looked up similar projects online or in landscape books, and made some very simple corrections to my projects and designs. Sometimes it's the small details that make all the difference-here are my top five design tips. Don't use squiggles. When you're laying out a new landscape http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=472 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=472 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT As late summer rolls around, those large vines of winter squash are starting to reveal their prizes. Hopefully, the fruits have been sizing up all summer, and now is the time to give a peek and see how the harvest looks. Knowing when and how to harvest your winter squash is important. If you harvest too early, the fruits won't be fully ripe and may not have the flavor you crave. In addition, the skin may not be tough enough for these fruits to be stored for an extended period. But if you wait too long, insects and frost http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=461 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=461 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT The concept of using natural elements in garden décor might sound odd. Isn't the entire garden natural? The plants are natural, of course, but think of all the other things we gardeners add to it for décor-seating, walls, and accessories. Depending upon the materials you choose, the style of your garden will take on a very different feel. Contemporary gardens use sleek, industrial materials, and tropical gardens feature bright colors and dramatic accessories. If you're looking for an earthy, natural, organic feel to your outdoor space, read on for inspiration! Seating: If a garden bench or chair is on your shopping http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=469 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=469 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT You almost have to love a plant called beautyberry, don't you? This shrub is so extravagantly gorgeous, it's almost embarrassing. If you have a bit of space and some good, moist soil, and live in most areas of the South and Southeast, consider adding American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) to your landscape. You might find that it becomes one of your classic favorites. Growth Habit: This shrub will grow from 3 to 6 feet tall and just as wide, but if it really likes its spot, it can grow up to 9 feet tall. It has arching branches with greenish yellow leaves http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=468 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=468 Sun, 21 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Although I love groundcovers for their versatility, they can get out of hand. Groundcovers are great in perennial borders, under shrubs, and around trees. They cover the soil, keeping it cool and moist, while providing a beautiful mat of colorful foliage and sometimes attractive flowers. Once established, groundcovers can take care of themselves, filling an area so you have to do minimal weeding. Of course, they do compete for water and nutrients with nearby flowers and plants, so it's always good to fertilize in spring with an organic product to keep both your plants and the groundcover happy. Despite all these http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=460 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=460 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Have you ever walked out to your vegetable garden and noticed some odd things happening with your tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers? Strange discolorations and ends that look dry, shrunken, and leathery? If you're observing these signs and they seem to be getting worse, the problem probably started about three weeks earlier. The good news is that this is an easy diagnosis-you've got blossom end rot. Now don't start reaching for your fungicides and insecticides; those won't help one bit. Blossom end rot is caused not by a bug, fungi, or bacteria, but rather by a lack of calcium. During http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=467 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=467 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of my favorite summer fruits is the grape. They're sweet, juicy, and easier to grow than many people think. While most commercial growers plant grapes in rows on a trellis, a fun way to grow grapes at home is on an arbor. An arbor allows you to grow grapes in your yard and also provides shade on a sunny afternoon. I must admit my Italian roots show when I talk of grapes, because I remember my family growing grapes; as a kid, I munched on them under an arbor on a warm summer day. The key to growing grapes on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=456 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=456 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Seasoned vegetable gardeners know the benefits of rotating their crops-or, in common terms, the practice of planting different vegetables in the same part of the garden each year. Crop rotation allows soil nutrients to replenish and it will prevent the buildup of soil-borne pests and diseases. Pests and diseases tend to be drawn to particular plants, so regularly removing those plants and replacing them with different plants can break that cycle. And those soil nutrients have the same issue-certain vegetables will draw more heavily on nitrogen, for example, depleting the soil season after season if crops aren't rotated. So how do http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=464 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=464 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT In many warmer parts of the country, it's actually time to start thinking about your fall vegetable garden. Hard to believe, I know-the heat waves that have been bringing us to our knees make fall seem a million years away. But even if you live in a cooler climate, now is the time to plan for the upcoming vegetable season. Here's what you need to know to get going: Check with your county extension service to find out what vegetables to plant at what time. This will vary from region to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=463 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=463 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Summertime in the vegetable garden can mean problems, especially with insects and diseases. While there are many insects and diseases that attack vegetables, some problems may not be related to pests at all. Some vegetable problems are abiotic, which means they are caused by a nonliving agent. The solution isn't reaching for the sprayer, but being creative about solving the problem. Here are two abiotic problems to watch for in the garden. Blossom End Rot: This tomato problem is widespread. The blossom end of tomato fruits rot as the fruits mature. This is most evident on elongated-shaped tomato varieties, such as http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=455 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=455 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Ready for a new plant collection? I have a local nursery that delights in stocking their shelves with the strangest, most oddball plants that nobody has ever heard of. A couple of years ago, they began putting out these strange little things in 2-inch pots-at the time, I hardly glanced at them, but now I'm starting to collect them. They're Lithops, commonly called "living stones" or "flowering stones," and they don't even look like plants. Native to southern Africa, Lithops resemble small stones in their color, shape, and texture. This camouflage gives them protection from animals that would usually graze http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=462 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=462 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT With a glut of fresh summer vegetables and fruits coming in from your garden, planting more vegetables is probably the last thing on your mind. But that's actually what you should be thinking about this time of year. With a little planning, you can plant a fall crop of vegetables that will keep you in fresh produce into December, depending on where you live. The key is to find the space in the garden and the nerve to try to plant in the middle of the summer's heat. Some of the vegetables you can grow in late summer for a fall http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=451 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=451 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Smart gardeners always want to conserve water, but this is especially true during the hot summer months. When temperatures spike into the 90s and even over 100 degrees, plants and gardens require special care, but many areas of the United States have water restrictions or guidelines. Determining when and how to water can be confusing, but once you have the basics down, it's easy. Here's what you need to know. Water deeply and less often. Continual sprinklings won't do any good. In fact, it could do some harm to your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=459 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=459 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Heat during the summer is to be expected, but the heat we've all had this summer is beyond scorching and our gardens show it. Nobody wants to garden in unbearably hot weather, and many of our landscape plants are shutting down. Wilted foliage, brown leaves, and absent flowers are enough to make any gardener discouraged. When heat waves force you inside but you miss gardening, try your hand at indoor gardening. Houseplants add a soft organic touch to our interiors, are usually fairly low maintenance, and increase the air quality of our homes. Here are some ideas to get you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=458 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=458 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT Summer is tomato time and many gardeners have a plethora of fruits by August. We've waited all year to have such a glut of tomatoes, so it's a shame to waste them. Now is the time to think of ways to use or process your tomatoes to preserve their flavor throughout the winter. I like to can or freeze my tomatoes. The first step is to harvest properly. Tomatoes will continue to ripen off the vine, but for the best flavor, I like to leave the fruits I'll be freezing or canning on the plants until they get dead ripe. That http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=450 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=450 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT You know that long strip in between the curb and the sidewalk? There's a really good reason why homeowners and gardeners hate it. Scorching sun and a plethora of weeds lead to maintenance and watering issues. Grass is a pain to mow and edge, water runs off, and whatever you do needs to be pedestrian friendly. It's enough to make us all throw our hands up in the air in defeat. But not so fast! There are remedies for this patch of real estate-as long as you adhere to some commonsense guidelines. Check with the city. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=457 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=457 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're looking for an easy-to-grow herb that's almost guaranteed to be successful, look no further than mint. Not only is mint simple to grow, but it comes in an amazing variety of flavors. For example, there is peppermint, spearmint, ginger mint, pineapple mint, orange mint, lemon mint, Thai (licorice) mint, and chocolate mint. And yes, they all have a different flavor to their leaves. Choose the varieties that most appeal to you and you can start a mint garden even in midsummer. Mint grows best in full to part sun on moist, well-drained soil. It's not fussy about its growing http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=446 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=446 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT When the summer heat is smoking and the family is hungry, the last thing you want to do is cook. Yes, I know we all need to eat, but during these hot months, make it easy on yourself by turning off the oven and throwing together some simple summer salads. These aren't necessarily your ordinary iceberg lettuce and tomato salads, but they are healthy, quick recipes that make delicious side dishes. Get the other family members involved by assigning them simple tasks like dicing vegetables and opening cans, and before you know it, you've got a cool addition to your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=454 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=454 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT This summer, the country is experiencing some mighty strange weather-we all expect some high temperatures, but parts of the country are trying to survive through record-setting heat and humidity. To make matters worse, add either drought or too much rain, and you've got a recipe for the summer blues. What's a gardener to do? Plenty! Read on to find out how to protect both yourself and your garden during high summer heat. Keep cool. When my landscape crew and I are out on a job site, they have shown me how to protect myself from the sun and the heat. They http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=453 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=453 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT If there is one vegetable that loves summer heat, it's summer squash. The plants seem to just sit there in spring until the warm weather hits. Then, seemingly overnight, the plants explode in growth, with flowers and fruits following soon afterward. There are many types of summer squash to grow, each with a unique shape and skin color. Even the flavor can vary from squash to squash. While most gardeners know of the traditional dark green zucchini and yellow summer squash, I like growing the Cousa, or Lebanese, summer squash. This blocky squash with light green skin has a nutty flavor http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=445 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=445 Sat, 30 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT We spend so much time planning, planting, and tending to our gardens. But while most of us already have a deck, a patio, or other gathering area for our families and guests, there is a garden feature that is often overlooked: the bench. Many people have benches but don't use them because they are poorly placed. Here are some tips to consider when buying and placing garden benches. Material: There are many different types of benches-those made of concrete, metal, wrought iron, or painted, stained, or raw wood. The choice of material is somewhat subjective-if you have a formal garden, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=452 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=452 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're looking for some fun, educational activities to do with your kids this summer, look no further than the flower or vegetable garden. While kids sometime need to warm up to appreciating plants, they are immediately engaged by bugs. Granted, some kids are more repulsed than attracted by insects, but most kids, especially younger ones, have a fascination with insects that offers you an opportunity to teach and play outdoors with your kids. The first task is to find some bugs. If you're growing vegetables in your garden, potatoes, brassicas, and greens are good places to start. Look for Colorado http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=441 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=441 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT This has happened a number of times over the years: I'm out gardening-watering potted plants or trimming back some perennials-and I find a bird's nest with eggs either in a shrub or tree. I love encouraging birds to take up space in my garden, but I worry when I see eggs and no mama. This happened again two weeks ago, so I did a bit of research on all things bird's nest related and here's what I found: If you find a nest with eggs, and no mama around, don't touch the nest or the eggs. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=449 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=449 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners are branching out into growing berries in their gardens-strawberries, blueberries, and even blackberries and raspberries. There's nothing as tasty as summer berries, right off the vine, folded into a salad or baked in pastry. Even if you don't grow your own, berries are usually readily available at your local farmers' market, so grab your berries and try one of these delicious summertime treats! Mini Berry Pies 1 (15 ounce) package refrigerated piecrusts 6 ounces raspberries 12 ounces blueberries 4 teaspoons cornstarch ¼ cup sugar, plus more for sprinkling 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and spray two muffin tins http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=448 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=448 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Midsummer means pesto in our house. Basil is one of those herbs that we must plant every summer. While I'm partial to the Italian Genovese basil variety, with its large leaves and strong flavor, I've learned to love basils with other flavors over the years. Thai basil (licorice), cinnamon basil, lemon basil, and lime basil are just some of the other basils that grow easily in your garden. You can experiment with using these different basil varieties in your cooking. I use Thai basil in Asian foods, lemon basil in rice dishes, and cinnamon basil in desserts. If you haven't planted http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=440 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=440 Sat, 23 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Gardens often incorporate tropical plants because of the exotic resort feeling they provide. If you love this garden style but are unsure of which plants to use, you're not alone. Most people know that they should use plants with bright colors and big leaves, but many are uncertain about the specific plants to choose. Here are three tried-and-true easy tropicals to try in your garden! Bougainvillea: This flowering tropical vine is ideal for gardeners in Zones 9-11, but those in cooler climates can still use this plant as a flowering annual. Bougainvillea is a popular hanging basket plant and bedding plant, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=447 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=447 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT The tomatoes are finally growing strong with the warm July temperatures. But with new growth, flowers, and fruits, come some unwanted visitors to the tomato patch. In general, tomatoes don't attract a lot of insects, but there are a few you'll need to keep an eye out for, in case they get out of control. The tomato or tobacco hornworm is a large caterpillar that can devour your tomato leaves and fruits overnight. They are a bit scary looking. They can grow up to 5 inches long and have a "horn" on one end. The horn won't sting you, but these http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=436 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=436 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT I have to admit, I'm not a huge begonia fan. Sure, the angelwing begonias are pretty fantastic, but until the other day, I would have said those were the exception to my "no begonia" rule. That's when I stumbled across rex begonias in a greenhouse. The colors! The variations! The leaf shapes! Consider me in love. They are kind of like coleus on steroids, and if you have a great shady spot in your garden or a dappled container to showcase them, you're in luck! These plants grow in a mounding habit up to 18 inches high, and the leaves can http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=444 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=444 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Although most everyone in my family gardens, this is kind of a first-generation activity. My father loved to work in the yard, but didn't really tinker in the garden, so we kids didn't grow up learning about best gardening practices from him. Most of what I know is from trial and error, which is the way many gardeners learn. But you can learn from other people's mistakes, too! Here are some of the most common mistakes gardeners make, and how to avoid them. Planting a plant in the wrong spot. Some http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=443 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=443 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of my favorite summer shrubs is the elderberry. Not only does this native American shrub have few problems and grow readily around the country, but it produces beautiful flowers and delicious berries that birds and people can enjoy. With the interest in edible landscaping booming, elderberries are getting a lot of attention as an easy to grow, attractive landscape plant with tasty black clusters of berries. Elderberries (Sambucus nigra canadensis) are hardy in USDA Zones 3-9. They are fast-growing, rangy plants that can spread by root suckers or seeds. One key selling point for elderberries is that they can thrive http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=435 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=435 Sat, 16 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables (actually a fruit) to grow in the home garden. And no wonder-tomatoes are that perfect summer crop that can be eaten right off the vine, added to salads, and cooked in sauces. Prepare a salad or salsa with fresh tomatoes tonight for some great seasonal taste! Arugula Salad with Tomatoes 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups baby arugula 1 pound plum tomatoes, cut into wedges ¼ cup drained baby green pepperoncini ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted ½ red onion, thinly sliced 1/8 teaspoon coarse salt Freshly ground pepper Whisk vinegar and oil in a small bowl until http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=442 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=442 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the most popular home building and landscaping projects is constructing a rustic arbor. If you have some sapling trees on your property and basic carpentry skills, it's not so hard to build an arbor. A rustic arbor makes a welcoming gateway to a perennial flower or vegetable garden. If you use rot-resistant wood, it can last for years and you can grow climbers, such as morning glories, clematis, and grapes up the arbor. Here are some tips on building your arbor: Select the right trees. Start with selecting saplings from rot-resistant woods. Eastern red cedar, black locust, hemlock, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=431 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=431 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT With the rising popularity of gardening, it's no wonder there are so many people who are interested in saving seeds from their plants for next year's garden. If you really love that perennial, or your zucchinis are particularly spectacular-well, who wouldn't want to bottle that up for the future? It's a great idea, but not all seeds can (or should) be saved. These tips can help you figure out which ones can be saved and how to properly gather and store them for next year. Which to Save: Go ahead and save seeds from heirloom or standard plants that are not http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=439 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=439 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT If houseplants were running for public office, they'd have a great built-in platform. Who doesn't want clean air? And if you work in a cramped office or live in a musty apartment, these plants are even more important. Here's the deal: modern homes and buildings are designed to be energy efficient and are tightly sealed to reduce energy losses from heating and air conditioning. Thus, these buildings are often poorly ventilated-and synthetic building materials and nasty chemicals used with office equipment compound the problem. The following houseplants help remove pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Plan to add fifteen http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=438 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=438 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT In most parts of the country, it's hard to grow a school garden and keep the kids involved, because most of the growing, weeding, watering, and even harvesting will happen when school is not in session during the summer. To avoid the catastrophe of a weedy, unattractive, and unproductive garden in September when the kids come back to school, you'll need a plan for summer maintenance. There are several strategies you can implement to keep the school garden growing well all summer without having all the summer chores fall on a few volunteers. Here are some tips: Develop a committee http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=430 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=430 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT I know-you don't think of yourself as a formal person, do you? You're friendly and warm, and love to entertain guests in your home and garden. But a formal garden doesn't necessarily mean "stuffy"-think classic, elegant, and traditional. These gardens never go out of style, and they can complement many house styles with the substitution of plant varieties. But there are elements every formal garden has in common, and if you're considering creating a new garden or tweaking the one you've got, take a look at these guidelines to see if this style will work for your landscape. Evergreens: I can't http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=437 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=437 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the toughest pests to control in the summer vegetable garden is the cucumber beetle. They come in two types: black and yellow spotted, and black and yellow striped. Both cause damage to not only cucumber plants, but squash and melon plants as well. The young larvae feed on plant roots, but that's not the biggest concern. It's the adult beetles that emerge in early summer that cause the most damage. Their feeding inhibits the seedling's growth and can also spread diseases such as bacterial wilt and virus. The feeding doesn't stop with the seedlings. Cucumber beetles will attack http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=426 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=426 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT The number of gardeners growing food in their backyards (and even front yards) has been growing tremendously in recent years! Shopping at farmers' markets used to be the trend, and while these markets are not losing their popularity, there is something very special about being able to grow your own food to feed yourself and your family. If you're a new vegetable gardener, like I am, there are some guidelines that can help you get your garden through the hot summer months. Water: The best way to water vegetables is by drip or soaker hose, especially in the summer when overhead http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=434 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=434 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT If there's one thing nearly every gardener has in common, it's trees in the landscape. Shade trees, ornamental trees, fruit trees-the choices might be different depending upon where you live. But the care of trees seems to be a different matter altogether-we gardeners seem to be continually confused about how to trim or prune trees, and because of that, we often end up ruining their form or inviting pests and disease. Follow these guidelines to get you back on track and keep your trees healthy. Why: Prune or trim first to remove dead or diseased limbs, then to encourage proper growth, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=433 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=433 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Pumpkins are a favorite fruit to grow in a kid's garden. It's not too late to start growing a patch now to mature by Halloween. If you already have a pumpkin patch for your kids, a great way to keep them interested and involved is to have them name their favorite fruits. Start by telling your children a story about where the name pumpkin comes from. Pumpkins are native American crops. When Jacques Cartier was exploring North America in the 1500s, he came across these large vines and fruits growing in Native American gardens. He called them gros melons. The http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=425 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=425 Sat, 02 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes we all want a little fun in the garden, don't we? It's all well and good to have great perennial beds or a lush shade garden, but there comes a time when you might just want to shake things up a bit and show your creative side. Enter the theme garden. Now, no breaking out into a rash here-we're not talking about topiaries in the shape of Mickey Mouse and Goofy-we're simply thinking about creating a garden around an idea. Perhaps you love a particular color or vacation spot, or have a collection of something artistic or offbeat-these are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=432 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=432 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Children are out of school so it's time for that great American pastime: the summer road trip. I remember piling into my dad's station wagon and heading to the beach for some great summer vacations. Although your kids may be more interested in water parks, amusement rides, and the beach, take this opportunity to make a little side trip to a garden. Public gardens are great places for kids to blow off steam after being cooped up in a car for hours. Plus, they provide the chance for kids to interact with nature in a fun and engaging way. Many public http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=421 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=421 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Lately, many of my friends have been getting more interested in adding a variety of animals to their backyard gardens. In the past, they've been gardeners of the more typical variety-annuals and perennials, along with some edibles like vegetables and fruits. But now, they're thinking about animals-chickens, goats, pigs, and rabbits. (No one yet has considered a cow, but I think that one is right around the corner.) If you're like my friends and thinking about creating a farm in your garden, there are some factors you should consider before purchasing animals. After all, you don't want to make a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=429 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=429 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Come late June, we're all looking for a bit of shade, aren't we? I know I love my sunny flowers-sunflowers, lantanas, and petunias are always on my must-have list-but there is something so cool about shady plants. Sometimes it's their cooler colors that draw me in, and other times it's their great textures and foliage that attract me. As a landscape designer, I create container plantings for many of my clients, and I have a tried-and-true technique when choosing colors. Great color combinations are created by using hues of the same color, contrasting colors, or different colors close to each http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=428 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=428 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT With the summer sun and heat upon us, our vegetables are exploding with growth. Unfortunately, insects are out in full force as well. One plant that has its share of pest problems is squash. Whether it be squash vine borers or squash bugs, this fast-growing, productive vegetable has to contend with some aggressive insects. Here's how to identify the pests and help your squash plant survive the onslaught. Adult squash vine borer moths lay eggs on the stems of summer squash, winter squash, and pumpkins near the soil line in early summer. The eggs hatch and the small, wormlike larvae tunnel http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=420 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=420 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Thinking about changing up your garden this summer? Don't worry-you don't need to rip out your perennial beds or completely revise your color scheme. Sometimes a little change is enough to kick it up a notch-like adding a different color. I've always been attracted to purples and pinks, but this year I decided to add some yellow. This is the most sunny, vibrant color around, and it complements many other colors that probably already exist in your garden. If you're thinking about adding some zingy yellow to your garden, you can consult your county extension service for suggestions of yellow-blooming http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=427 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=427 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's June and all those plants you painstakingly put in the ground either last fall or just a couple of months ago are going strong! They're adding vibrancy and early-summer color to your garden, but are you afraid things will go downhill once the really hot weather hits? In most places in the United States, the weather is warm in June, but the days will get even hotter as the summer progresses. I won't lie to you-summer does get a little hard on plants, so you'll have to take extra care to make sure they perform until August or http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=424 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=424 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT With roses blooming their heads off in many gardens, it's time to watch out for rose diseases. Depending on the disease, a spell of cool or warm weather can be conducive to the spread of many rose diseases that can ruin your beautiful flower bed. Blackspot, powdery mildew, and rust are three of the most common rose diseases you'll see. Each can be controlled with good observation and timely action. The first step is to select disease-resistant varieties. Newer hybrid landscape roses such as 'Knockout', 'Carefree Beauty', and 'Bonica' are examples of shrub roses that require little care and disease control. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=416 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=416 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT There's almost nothing as refreshing as citrus fruits in the summer! If you've taken the plunge and added some citrus trees to your edible garden this year, you'll be treated to a season's worth of fruit for snacking and cooking. One of the easiest to grow is lemons-and no worries if you're not growing them yourself. Make a trip to your local farmers' market or high-quality grocery store and try one of these recipes for a refreshing treat! Whole Lemonade 1 whole lemon Sweetener (sugar, agave nectar, honey) to taste Water (about 2 cups) Other berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), optional Cut the lemon into 8 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=423 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=423 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Children's gardens can serve many functions. While one of the most obvious reasons for having kids grow plants is to teach them about food production, nature, and teamwork, gardens can also serve as a place to heal. Gardens can be planted in memory of national heros, community heros, events, or even family members. In an age where tragedy strikes in the form of tornadoes, floods, and natural disasters as well as violent crime and accidents, a garden can be a place a child can use to help make sense of it all. Memorial gardens are places to teach. Growing a garden http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=415 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=415 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT We've all done it. Our lives get busy; little details start to get past us. Or we go on vacation and forget to make sure things at the house are taken care of in our absence. When you get back, there's your sick little sad sack of a houseplant, gasping for breath and on its last leg. Wilted leaves, yellowing or brown foliage, or outright dead parts-should you throw it out and start over? Sometimes, yes. If the majority of the plant is clearly dead, it would take many months to make it healthy again. But if you'd like to make http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=422 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=422 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT There's nothing worse than working hard to build a raised bed for your vegetables, amending the soil well, and sowing seeds such as corn, beans, and peas, only to have critters and pests devour them before they even have a chance to get started. While you can always replant, there are some precautions you can take to keep birds from pulling out seedlings, cutworms from felling young transplants, and bunnies from mowing then all down. Birds, such as crows, love to find treasures in your newly planted garden bed. They usually wait until the seedlings of large seeded crops such as http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=411 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=411 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you've been gardening for any length of time, you've probably heard or read about the importance of using native plants. This is particularly true if you happen to live in an area that has more extreme weather, say, Arizona-it would be foolish to try to have a garden filled with hydrangeas and azaleas if you live in an area with little rainfall and scorching sun. But what if your area has a milder climate? Is it still important to use natives? Yes! If you're worried that you'll have to rip up everything in your garden in order to get started, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=419 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=419 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT You might think the only time you can sow seeds is in the spring, when you're getting a head start on transplants for your vegetable garden. Now that it's June, in many areas of the country it is a little late for starting vegetable seeds, but what about annual flowers? Some flowers are ridiculously easy to start from seed, and it's so inexpensive it's certainly worth a try. For about $1.50 per seed packet, you can direct sow the seeds into your garden bed and wait just weeks for blooms to appear, creating a mid- to late-season show of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=418 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=418 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT I love growing vegetables that look beautiful and taste great. One of my favorites is lettuce. Lettuce isn't just a bunch of boring green leaves anymore. There are red, burgundy, light green, and speckled varieties. Depending on the type, the leaves can be smooth and round, tall and jagged, or even shaped like oak leaves. There are varieties that tolerate the heat of summer and cool temperatures of spring and fall. So if you like salads, grow lettuce. And don't just stick lettuce in the vegetable garden. Mix and match colorful varieties among your herbs and annual flowers, and in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=410 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=410 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Container planting is a popular type of gardening, whether you garden on several acres or a tiny patio or balcony. But have you noticed that sometimes your arrangements just look ho-hum and you can't figure out why? You've bought some cool pots, added the right plants, and know how to take care of them, but your arrangement still looks just "okay." Well, no worries-here are some designer tips to help you liven up your container plantings! Frame a view. Arrange your pots so that they draw your eye first to them, and then to a spectacular view just beyond. Perhaps you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=417 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=417 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Early summer is shrub-pruning time. Unfortunately, most people prune shrubs by shaping them into geometric patterns that work for their yard. Squares, balls, and ovals may be great for topiaries, but these shapes are not beneficial for most home garden shrubs. Also, when you plant the wrong shrub in a certain location, it's tempting to keep pruning it tightly so it doesn't grow over a window or door. Not only can improper pruning deform a shrub, but pruning at the wrong time can also prevent a shrub from flowering next year. Let's look at some of the basics of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=406 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=406 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Are you afraid of bamboo? Have you heard it's an invasive, evil plant that you'd be crazy to add to your garden? Well, if you plant the wrong type, you heard right, and you should be very, very afraid! There are two types of bamboo-spreading and clumping-and the spreading variety is what you want to stay away from. But the clumping types? They are safe to use, are easy to grow, and provide gorgeous structure in the garden. Although some bamboos are somewhat cold tolerant, most will appreciate milder climates. They will do well in sun to part shade, and if http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=414 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=414 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT Have you ever seen gardens that look so gorgeous and pulled together that they could have stepped out of the pages of a design magazine? Chances are good that the designer-whether a professional or the homeowner-employed basic landscape design techniques that are time honored and effective. The following principles will help you achieve that professional polished look in your own home garden. Color: Gardens don't need to have lots of colorful flowers in order to be well designed. Solid green or monochromatic gardens can be very effective as well. However, if choosing color, remember to use colors that are either complementary http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=413 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=413 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT You don't have to be Italian to appreciate bulb or Florence fennel. This cool-weather-loving vegetable produces lots of ferny top growth in spring and fall. However, it's the swollen bulb at the base of the plant that is primarily eaten. The crunchy, multilayered bulb has a sweet anise flavor. It's great chopped in salads, grilled, or roasted. The ferny leaves are also edible and make great additions to soups. If you like licorice, then fennel is a vegetable for you. Plant fennel directly in the garden in spring as soon as the ground can be worked. 'Zefa Fino' is a good, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=405 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=405 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT So you've taken the plunge and want to add chickens to your backyard garden-you're looking forward to fresh eggs on your table and great natural fertilizer for your plants. You've built your chicken coop and studied up on the type of breeds you want, and even have names picked out. But what should you feed these chickens when you get them? While chickens are usually a very low-maintenance addition to your urban farm-I've heard many chicken owners say they almost raise themselves-it's still up to you to provide a healthy diet for them. Chickens do not have a sense of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=412 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=412 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you don't have room to plant those favorite flowers in the garden, there are plenty of choices for containers. While growing flowers in large plastic, rubber, clay, or wooden pots gives you more options for plant combinations and less watering and fertilizing, sometimes you only have room for small-sized pots. Pots that are only 6 or 8 inches wide have limitations, but with a little creativity, you can make them attractive all summer long. Here are some options for the best flowers to grow in small pots: Miniature Roses: Miniature roses come in a number of varieties, with diminutive flowers http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=404 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=404 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Planting summer annuals is a great way to add an inexpensive pop of color to your garden. While most are easy to care for, they typically need consistent watering and regular fertilizing to keep them blooming into the fall months. If you're looking for a particular color to blend into your existing garden, these suggestions will help you out. Purple and Blue: Purple and blue flowers are great additions to any garden, and they blend well with most other flower colors. If you have sunny areas, consider petunia, ageratum, phlox, scaevola, and verbena. You'll have fewer options for getting that purple http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=409 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=409 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT "Strawberry fields forever" could be a perfect description for your garden. Well, maybe not forever, but would you settle for "anywhere"? Strawberries are one of the most rewarding fruits to grow, and nearly any gardener anywhere can grow them. Whether you have acres of space or a tiny balcony, strawberries can be grown easily. Here's what you need to know to get going on your own little slice of berry heaven: Get started. Choose your planting site. Strawberries are small crops so they don't need a lot of space. They do, however, need as much sun as you can give them. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=408 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=408 Sun, 29 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're growing a garden with your child at home or at school, strawberries are a perfect fruit to plant. They are low growing and easy to manage, can be planted in containers, produce the year after planting, and keep producing for a number of years if maintained well. When growing strawberries with kids there are a few factors to keep on mind: Location: Plant your strawberries in plain sight and close to the edge of the bed so they will be easy to weed, water, and harvest. Raised beds and containers, such as strawberry jars, are perfect for strawberries because http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=403 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=403 Sat, 28 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Groundcovers are agreeable, useful little plants, yet they often get passed over for their larger, showier plant. If you have some problem areas in your garden, I suggest you take a look at groundcovers to address them. Do you have shady areas where grass doesn't grow? Groundcover. Got a pathway that needs some softening? Groundcover. Looking for some low-growing textural interest in your garden? Yep, you guessed it-groundcover! Here's a rundown of some of the more popular groundcovers, along with suggestions on how to use them. Ajuga: Ajuga reptans thrives in partial sun to dappled shade and has average watering needs. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=400 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=400 Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT More and more gardeners are turning to raised beds, and the reasons are numerous. If your garden has shallow or poor-quality soil, or you have mobility issues that prevent you from kneeling or bending, raised beds are the way to go. But there are so many materials to choose from that it can be a bit confusing when you're trying to make the best decision. Here are the top three building materials for raised beds, and why you might want to use them. Masonry: If you're looking for a more permanent solution for your raised beds, consider masonry. Bricks http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=407 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=407 Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Sunflowers are not just fun and colorful plants to grow in a kids' garden-they can be a learning tool as well. Sunflowers have special characteristics that make them perfect to teach about science, math, and history. There are many varieties of sunflowers, ranging in height from the less than 1 foot to more than 10 feet. Have the kids design and plant a sunflower garden in which they grow as many different-sized varieties as they can find at local garden centers. Have kids set up a graph to chart the growth rate of various sunflower varieties. See if tall-growing sunflowers grow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=396 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=396 Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Thinking about employing some kind of rainwater collection system? I don't doubt it-my recent travels and garden tours have underscored how popular this practice is becoming. On a five-stop garden tour last week, every homeowner had a collection barrel tucked in somewhere in the backyard or around the corner of the house. Aside from the obvious benefit of a lower water bill, rainwater collection offers the gardener and homeowner a number of advantages that are hard to ignore. Read on for more information, and to see if creating a rainwater collection system is worthwhile for you. Benefits: Rainwater is a superior http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=401 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=401 Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT On a recent visit to a flower and garden show, a new sight intrigued me: small gardens planted in bales of straw! Since coming home, I've seen straw bale gardens on several different garden tours, so I knew this was more than just a fad. So what is straw bale gardening and why should you try it? Simply put, it's planting a garden inside a single bale of hay. It's a great "container" planting idea for people who have poor or no soil, who have some physical limitations and need a raised garden, or who just want to try a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=399 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=399 Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Vegetable gardens have a reputation of being monochromatic and boring to look at. But they don't have to be that way. There are many ways to add color and brightness to your vegetable garden so it can look as attractive as a flower garden. Of course, the whole concept of edible landscaping encourages gardeners not to separate the vegetable garden from the flower garden, but to mix and match the two. That mixing can make for intriguing color combinations. But what if you aren't interested in mixing your flowers, herbs, vegetables, and even small shrubs together in a garden? You http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=395 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=395 Sat, 21 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Kids are naturally fascinated with gardens and plants. At first, it doesn't take much to get them interested in growing vegetables, herbs, and fruits because of the anticipation of eating the produce later on in the summer. But once the garden is planted, often the wildlife is what holds kids' attention on a regular basis. When kids discover toads, frogs, mice, snakes, earthworms, butterflies, and insects, you can engage them in discussions about ecology, wildlife, and the role animals and creatures play in the health of the soil and garden. You can ensure that your kids' garden will have an abundance http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=391 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=391 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Espalier is the practice of training a tree to grow horizontally against a wall; the method not only creates a piece of horticultural artwork, but is also a great way to use trees in small spaces. Fruit-bearing espaliered trees are particularly impressive as they provide both form and function in tighter spaces. If the technique looks a bit fussy, well, it is! But espaliered trees are often in gardens for years, providing the gardener with a stunning, classic backdrop for the rest of the landscape. Here are the steps to follow if you want to try this artform: Choose your plant http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=398 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=398 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Who doesn't love blueberries? One of the healthiest fruits, blueberries are high in antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. They're also great eaten raw or enjoyed in baked goods. But did you know that the blueberry bush itself is a gorgeous addition to almost any garden? It's true-this plant provides not only delectable fruit but year-round interest in the garden. Give blueberries acidic soil and good drainage by adding compost to the soil, and you've got a great start for twelve months of beautiful blueberries! Spring: In early spring, before the leaves bud out, the blueberry plant will burst forth http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=397 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=397 Sun, 15 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's tomato season and many gardeners have already planted these warm-temperature-loving fruits. Tomatoes grow best with soil temperatures above 60 degrees F and at least six to eight hours of full sun a day. Amend the soil when planting with compost to start them growing strong. If your tomato seedlings are tall and leggy, consider planting the stems deep into the soil. Plant up to the first set of true leaves. The buried stems will root and encourage stronger growth this summer. Tomatoes also grow best when they're trellised off the ground. This is especially true for indeterminate varieties (varieties that http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=390 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=390 Sat, 14 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT It seems like chicken coops are sweeping the country, with urban gardeners everywhere adding a few chickens to their backyard plots. For gardeners who like the idea of collecting fresh, organic eggs from chickens that they know are being treated humanely, the decision to raise chickens is often a no-brainer. In many areas, preconstructed chicken coops are readily available, but if you are interested in constructing your own coop, online plans can be found with just a click of the mouse. Whether you are purchasing or building a chicken coop, there are important construction details to consider. Materials: Avoid using pressure-treated http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=394 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=394 Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT The world has become a much smaller place in recent years. World news spreads instantly through mediums such as Facebook, Twitter, and smartphones. More people are traveling to foreign lands than ever before. Kids are exposed to many cultures through travel, immigration, and refugee populations moving around the world. What better way to teach about food, geography, and hunger issues than by growing an international food garden? To grow an international food garden, you'll need to transform your existing garden into a garden that represents the world. Break up kids into small groups representing different parts of the world, and have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=385 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=385 Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT There are specific design elements and plant choices for modern, contemporary gardens, and the same is true for the hardscape materials. "Hardscaping" refers to the nonplant elements in the landscape-patios, walkways, planters, and retaining walls. By selecting the right materials for these features, you can add clean lines and unfussy details that will complement your contemporary garden. One way to add contemporary styling to your hardscaping is to use industrial materials. Consider the following ideas: Steel: Natural, unpainted steel is a great choice for edging between landscape beds and grass areas, raised planters, trellises, and fences. Ask your landscaper to use http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=393 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=393 Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners would like to add or attract animals to their garden, making it more of a wildlife habitat. In some cases you might need to create the proper environment and then purchase the animal, but many critters will show up on their own if you offer them shelter and food sources. Now, we're not talking about pesky critters here-sometimes you have to simply accept the presence of raccoons, possums, gophers, and deer and let the circle of life be. But if you're ready for some interesting and low-key animal visitors, these tips will get you started. Turtles: Turtles make a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=392 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=392 Sun, 08 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's an herb, it's a shrub, it's a perennial flower-it's rosemary. Rosemary is one of the more versatile plants available. Depending on your climate, rosemary can be grown as an annual herb to flavor fish, meat, and vegetable dishes or as an evergreen landscape plant. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region, so it loves bright sunshine, well-drained soil, and warm conditions. That's why rosemary grows best in Zone 7 and above in the United States. You can get it to overwinter in Zone 6 with winter protection If you live in a colder climate, you can still grow and enjoy rosemary http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=384 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=384 Sat, 07 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes our gardens need a bit of a pick-me-up, don't they? You might want to add a tropical pop of color, brighten up a slightly shady area, or simply add some strong contrast to an otherwise ho-hum garden. The answer can lie in the colors you choose for flowers, foliage, and even accessories-and one of the most eye-popping garden colors is chartreuse. This bright green is fresh, citrusy, and bold, and here are some suggestions for adding it in your garden. Flowers: Chartreuse and lime-colored flowers really pop in the garden like no other flower color can. Combine them with other http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=389 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=389 Thu, 05 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT The best way to get kids interested and engaged in the garden is to include them in the design. Kid-designed gardens may be a little wild and chaotic, but the kids will feel more ownership of the gardens if the design they suggested is used. Whatever design your kids come up with, suggest they incorporate raised beds into it. Raised beds offer many advantages. The beds warm up and dry out faster in spring, allowing kids to get into the garden to plant sooner. Since the beds shouldn't be more than 3 to 4 feet wide, kids won't be stepping on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=383 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=383 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Growing flowers for beauty and ornamentation is nothing new-we've been doing that since the dawn of time. But flowers as food? You bet! There are a number of flowers that can be used not only as garnishes but also in stir-fries, vinegars, pancakes, and crepes. If you're interested in incorporating edible flowers into your menus, these guidelines can help you make some tasty decisions. Plants: There are quite a number of plants that produce edible flowers; some you may have heard of, but others will undoubtedly be new to you. Hibiscus, violets, nasturtiums, daisies, chrysanthemums, and honeysuckle are old favorites http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=388 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=388 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Roses have a wide variety of growing habits, so selecting plants can be confusing for the new rose enthusiast. Don't make the rookie mistake of purchasing the wrong rose for your site. Depending upon your particular garden needs, there's sure to be a rose that fits the bill. Here's a rundown of the most popular types of roses and their uses: Grandifloras: These roses are larger shrubby plants that grow up to 6 feet tall and produce hybrid tea flowers, but in clusters. They're actually a cross between hybrid tea roses and floribundas. Try 'Crimson Bouquet,' 'All American Magic', and 'Honey http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=387 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=387 Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many states are celebrating Arbor Day this time of year with special promotions to support the planting of trees in public and private areas. Trees are great for the environment and landscape. They help rid the air of pollution and carbon dioxide, they provide habitat for wildlife and birds, and they increase the property value of your yard. When selecting and planting trees it's best to do a little research first. Determine the purpose of the tree. Is it a tree for shade, fruit production, screening, or beauty? Some trees may fulfill multiple functions. Planting the right tree in the right http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=382 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=382 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT I've been where you are. Just last week, as a matter of fact. You want something new and interesting for your garden-perhaps some cheerful annuals or wispy grasses will do the trick. But once you get to the nursery, all your best-laid plans go out the window. Your normally practical brain goes haywire with all the horticultural eye candy, and your brain suddenly refuses to make a decision. To avoid going home with "one of these" and "ten of those" that don't fit any nook or cranny of your garden, or worse yet, plants that don't perform well, check out http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=386 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=386 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Cool, wet weather is perfect for transplanting trees and shrubs, sowing seeds, and battling slugs. Just as the garden season is heating up, the slugs and snails are looking for some food. Unfortunately, that includes many of your tender seedling vegetables, herbs, and flowers. However, gardeners have some tricks to safely keep slugs at bay and have a beautiful and productive garden. Here are some ideas. Cultivation: Slugs hide in dark, moist areas during the day and then come out to feed at night. Cultivate around plants regularly, keeping them well weeded. Space plants farther apart and don't use mulch in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=377 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=377 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Although there are parts of the United States where gardeners can't grow anything but cacti because of the terrain and lack of rainwater, gardeners in other regions seek out these rugged and beautifully textural plants. If you're looking to turn a part of your garden into a more arid zone, you'll be delighted with the low maintenance requirements and arresting forms of these succulent plants. Here's what you need to know to get your own slice of desert going: Plant Choice: All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. Succulents store water in their fleshy leaves, but only cacti http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=381 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=381 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you were busy last fall planting your spring-flowering bulbs, you're probably being treated to an incredible display right now. Here's where your hard work pays off. The sight of foliage poking up out of the ground, followed by an array of cheerful blooms, makes all of our toil worthwhile, doesn't it? If you're new to gardening with bulbs, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind to ensure an even better spring show next year. Here's the rundown of what you need to know: Trim: Feel free to trim off the dead and spent blooms of large-flowering bulbs such http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=380 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=380 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Growing an edible garden for your kids is a great way to encourage them to eat more fruits and vegetables. Herbs usually don't get as much attention in a kid's garden as the vegetables and fruits. Culinary herbs are a great way for older kids to learn some cooking skills and discover the amazing world of tastes beyond the traditional salt and pepper. Another group of culinary herbs that are a great educational tool are scented herbs. In a world of artificial fragrances and scents, the discovery that plants have attractive fragrances, too, can be eye-opening for kids. Use http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=376 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=376 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's no secret that spring is one of the busiest times of year in the garden-there's no lack of daily and weekly chores to do, but if you stay on top of everything now, your summer garden will thank you! Here's a quick list of things to pay attention to this spring in your garden: Plant: Get your warm-weather annuals in the ground now so that you can enjoy them in their full glory throughout the summer months. Impatiens, petunias, begonias, coleus, marigolds, and geraniums are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=379 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=379 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT The quest for the best garden usually starts with healthy soil. One of the best fertilizers and soil conditioners you can apply to your garden is animal manure. Manures can build the organic matter content, add nutrients to the soil, and increase microbial activity. But you have to be careful when using animal manures. Get the right type and form for your garden situation. So let's take a look at some manure. Aged Manure It's best to use composted manure or well-aged manure in the garden. If manure has been sitting for at least six months or has been properly composted to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=369 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=369 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT With backyard farming becoming more and more popular, it's not uncommon to see urban dwellers taking their morning coffee out while they gather fresh eggs for their breakfast. If you're interested in adding chickens to your backyard garden, it's sometimes confusing to know what breed is best, as there are hundreds from which to choose. But don't be overwhelmed; identify what you want from your chickens, do a bit of homework, and purchase your spring chicks with confidence. Here is a list of five of the most common backyard chickens-I'm betting one of them will be perfect for you. Plymouth Rock: http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=375 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=375 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you've been vegetable gardening for a while and you're getting tired of the same old tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash, try artichokes! This Mediterranean vegetable requires slightly different care depending upon where you live in the United States, and since you can grow artichokes (Cynara scolymus) for either their produce or their beautiful foliage, I say it's a no-brainer! Here's the rundown on growing your own: Soil and Site Preparation: Because it is a Mediterranean vegetable, the artichoke requires full sun and sandy, fast-draining soil to thrive. It'll also do best if given warm days and cool nights. Prepare your beds http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=378 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=378 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Annual beds offer bright, cheery colors all season long. Annual flowers look beautiful grown in their own bed as a showpiece or mixed in with other annual flowers or with perennial flowers. Often novice gardeners get overwhelmed when selecting the right color combinations to grow in their flower beds. Certainly a bed of all one type of celosia, salvia, or zinnia, for example, can look fantastic. But by mixing and matching color combinations of various annuals, you can create a striking bed that will add interest to the landscape. Because of modern plant breeding, gardeners have more choices than ever for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=368 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=368 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT After a long and cold winter, most gardeners are itching to get out into the garden and work the soil, turn the compost, and start planting. This is the most exciting time of the gardening year, when trees start budding out and dormant plants poke their heads out of the ground. Spring-flowering bulbs are some of the first plants to announce the arrival of spring, and with their exuberant colors and forms, they are stunning additions to any garden. Here are some great choices to add to your garden: Iris: One of the few bulbs with evergreen foliage, irises have long http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=373 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=373 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT While it's fun to design, layout, plant, and tend a kids' garden, there are some important rules that should be established to make sure the garden thrives. Although not as glamorous or engaging as deciding what tomato to grow and where to plant the sunflowers, setting garden rules is critical to the garden's health and the adult's sanity. Start with a discussion about rules. Why are there rules for driving, at home, and in the classroom at school? Have kids identify the role of rules. Is it only about keeping order? What about safety? Have your kids write down three easy-to-follow rules http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=366 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=366 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Ranunculus are time-honored bloomers that gardeners fell in love with years ago, and the love fest continues. These gorgeous, sunny flowers are easy to grow and propagate, and can offer months of color in the perennial garden. Ranunculus asiaticus is also known as turban buttercup, Persian crowfoot, and Persian buttercup. It grows as a bulb and flowers in the spring and early summer in shades of pink, coral, orange, fuschia, red, gold, yellow, and white. It thrives in full sun and is hardy to Zone 11. The bulbs are inexpensive, readily available, and easy to plant. Ranunculus bulbs or tubers http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=372 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=372 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're lucky enough to live in a relatively frost-free area, you might consider adding some citrus trees to your garden. Mostly evergreen and usually long-lived, citrus trees add both a beautiful structure and a source of edible fruit to the garden, which are increasingly prized by urban and suburban gardeners. If the right variety of citrus is chosen and planted, it's possible to have fresh lemons, limes, and oranges up to nine months of the year. Here are some guidelines to follow for the best results: Choose your rootstock wisely. Find out which http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=371 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=371 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the easiest and most satisfying vegetables to grow are bush beans. They are especially good for novice gardeners. The seeds are large, the beans fix their own nitrogen fertilizer so they need little extra fertilizer other than some compost at planting, and in two months you have a plentiful crop of tasty beans. While there are many varieties of green, yellow, and purple bush beans on the market, the types I like to grow are filet beans or haricot verts. The French filet beans grow in a manner similar to that of other bush beans, but the beans themselves http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=365 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=365 Sat, 09 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT More and more gardeners are becoming interested in creating sustainable environments for themselves and their families-growing their own fruits and vegetables, raising chickens for fresh eggs, and beekeeping. Beekeeping? Yep! Once considered a somewhat eccentric and slightly dangerous hobby, beekeeping is becoming more and more mainstream for urban and suburban gardeners. So if you're interested but don't know if beekeeping is right for you, here are some guidelines to consider: Check your local ordinances. While relatively few communities outlaw beekeeping, some have "nuisance laws" or practical http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=370 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=370 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Spring is the perfect time to lay out a garden for your kids or at your local school. There's an abundance of energy for outdoor projects and children's gardening is growing in popularity, with more school and youth gardens across the country than ever before. But if you're thinking of building a kid's garden this spring, there are some considerations you need to keep in mind beyond siting it properly, obtaining permissions, making sure there's water access, and enlisting other adult volunteers. The kids need to be directly involved. In order for kids to take some ownership of a garden, they http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=359 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=359 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardens have those awkward spaces where only plants that are tall and narrow will work. Maybe you have a spot on the side of your garage where the planting bed is only 2 feet wide, or your entire yard is so small that you need to take advantage of every square inch. There are many tricks and techniques to using more vertical space so that you can plant as many plants as possible. Check out these suggestions to find the perfect solution for your garden: Stack planters. Stacking pots one on top of another will http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=367 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=367 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT For the gardener who has a smaller space and wants to try growing edible plants, herbs can be the perfect way to start. Easy to grow, plentiful in their produce, and more forgiving of planting times than vegetables, herbs offer the small-space gardener many options. But if you have a balcony, patio, courtyard or smaller yard, you need to follow some guidelines to ensure you get the best harvest. These tips can get you going in the right direction: Sunlight: Most herbs will like as much sun as you can give them, but be sure you have at least a half http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=364 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=364 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are among the easiest perennials you can plant in your garden. These widely grown plants are very forgiving, slowly spread to fill in an area, and consistently bloom as long as they have enough sun. They also make a great addition to the edible landscape! The flower buds, open flowers, and tubers can be eaten and are tasty in a wide range of dishes from salads to soups to stir-fries. There are thousands of varieties of daylilies to choose from. It's best to find a public or demonstration garden in summer in your area when they are blooming, so http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=358 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=358 Sat, 02 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT In many areas of the United States, the appearance of azaleas is one of the first heralds of spring. These beautifully blooming shrubs offer such a stunning spring show and require so little care that it's a wonder you don't see azaleas in every garden. If you're looking for a punch of color in your shady garden, consider adding some azaleas-their gracious, well-bred form lends a timeless appeal that's difficult to find with any other plant. Types: Azaleas belong to the genus Rhododendron, with evergreen azaleas belonging to the subgenus Tsutsusi, and deciduous azaleas belonging to the subgenus Pentanthera. Because azaleas http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=363 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=363 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the fun parts of gardening with kids is you can grow themed gardens that are multipurpose. Not only do kids learn how to grow various vegetables and flowers, but they learn the history, culture, and meaning behind the cultivation of these plants. One of the best examples of a themed garden with many functions is the three sisters garden. Based on the traditional garden styles of some Native American tribes, the three sisters garden was a technique these early American gardeners used to grow compatible vegetables together. The method is simple. Grow corn, pole beans, and squash in mounds http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=357 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=357 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you have a garden and you have children, you know firsthand how well these two go together. Children love to go outside and explore, to get their hands and clothes dirty without reproval, and to while away the hours fantasizing that the fig tree is a ship about to crash. If you'd like to make your garden welcoming and fun for kids, take them with you to pick out some plants that you can grow together. Here are some tips for choosing the best plants for your little ones: Choose Color: It's no coincidence that http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=362 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=362 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Hydrangeas have always seemed to be one of those "gardener's plants"-people think that if you grow them, you're a real gardener. I've always considered these gorgeous bloomers to be a bit fussy and demanding, like a spoiled but adorable toddler. But while there's no doubt that hydrangeas require some special care, their beauty makes it all worthwhile. If you've been on the fence about these flowers in the past, keep reading-I'm hoping your fears will be allayed! Planting Location: This is probably the most important consideration for the health of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=361 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=361 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Every year new flower varieties fill garden centers with more choices than we can keep straight. While many of the new varieties are just variations on a theme, such as a different-colored geranium or a faster-growing zinnia, there are always a few new varieties that stand out. This year is no exception. Here are a few new flower varieties that will make your gardening a little easier and your gardens a little prettier this summer. 'Senorita Rosalita' Cleome: Cleome, or spider flower, is a beautiful annual with flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. It adds height and lightness to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=356 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=356 Sat, 26 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT In many areas of the South, fig trees are starting to bud out. Even if warmer weather is a few weeks off in your area, chances are good that you can grow fig trees and enjoy their tasty produce come summer. Here's what you need to know if you're interested in adding this fruit to your edible landscape: Size: First and foremost, fig trees are fairly large, even when planted in a pot, so if you have a very small space, this tree may not be for you. Fig trees can http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=360 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=360 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's a dirty subject, but someone has to talk about it. It's the soil! Soil is the soul of your garden and the more you understand and appreciate the multiple dimensions of your soil, the better a gardener you'll be. Many kids have either a natural attraction or repulsion to soil, and for some it may be a love/hate relationship. However, you can open up the whole fascinating world of soil to kids in the schoolyard or at home. Here are some ways to make soil cool for kids. Get samples of sand, silt, and clay soil and have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=352 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=352 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Looking to add to your houseplant collection, but want to try something a little different? You've got enough pothos, your sansevieria is doing just fine, and the Boston ferns seem a bit ho-hum these days. I've got a plant that you will love-it has amazing texture, provides vertical interest, and is relatively easy to maintain. Interested? It's my pleasure to introduce you to the conversation-starting Hindu rope! Also known as wax plant, Indian rope, and angel rope, Hindu rope (Hoya compacta) is a fascinating tropical with crinkled, waxy-textured succulent foliage. It's great in a hanging basket, with its "ropes" of foliage http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=355 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=355 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT There aren't many fruits or vegetables that are as multipurpose as the tomato-they're great for eating fresh off the vine, slicing up for sandwiches and salads, and for cooking and preserving. If you plan on growing tomatoes for cooking this year, here are some great guidelines for getting the best results from your efforts: Use the proper knife to cut tomatoes. A good, sharp serrated knife is the best utensil to use-a flat-edged knife can easily bruise or squash the tomato. Let cut and hollowed tomatoes drain before filling them with egg or tuna salad, herbed cheese, or caviar. Drain them upside http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=354 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=354 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Small fruits, such as blueberries, have become all the rage across the country as gardeners discovery that many of these bushes not only produce delicious fruit, but are attractive in the landscape as well. One often-overlooked berry bush is the gooseberry. While not as well-know and popular in the United States as the blueberry, gooseberries have a long and rich history in England. Gooseberry jams, jellies, and pies all grace English tables. Gooseberries are easy to grow, hardy in Zones 3-8, and produce fruit reliably for years. Unlike other fruits, you only need one bush to produce berries. But you may http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=351 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=351 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT This time of year, gardeners start to move outside and survey any winter damage to tend to before focusing on spring planting. For those of us who have palms in the landscape, you might find this task a bit daunting after the deep freeze the entire country was in for much of the winter. And it's not just gardeners in Florida and California who have palms-as there are a number of palms that are quite cold tolerant, gardeners in most of our planting zones are facing the same issues. So what to do? Here are some care tips if your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=353 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=353 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Starting seeds indoors is a time-honored way to get kids interested in gardening. We all remember coming home from school with paper cups filled with soil and a few bean seeds. While growing a few seeds in a paper cup is always fun for kids, these tips will help you ensure that the seedlings will survive and your students will get the most out of this activity. Decide if you're starting seeds for the kids to take home immediately, or to grow into transplant size in the classroom. Seeds that will be taken home after they germinate are quick and easy to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=344 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=344 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Anthurium just might catch your eye at the nursery because of its exotic flowers and smooth foliage, but then what happens? You might pass it up because you think it's another one of those fussy houseplants that no gardener can keep alive, and you don't want to waste your money. Well, I don't want you to waste your money, either, and you won't with this plant. Go ahead a splurge a bit; anthurium is one houseplant that will earn its keep! Appearance: The heart-shaped flower of the anthurium is actually a modified leaf with a waxy appearance, which curls around and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=350 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=350 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you live in a warmer climate, you might already be seeing blooms bursting open on spring-flowering trees, but if you're in a colder climate, this sight might still be several weeks away. These ornamental trees (20 feet or less) are the workhorses of the spring garden, often heralding the arrival of spring before any other plant has even begun to consider blooming. So take note of the ones you see blooming in your area and make plans to add them to your garden this year. Here are some of my favorites for you to consider: Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana): This http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=349 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=349 Sun, 13 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT While spring is bursting forth in many parts of the country, it may still be too cold in northern areas to plant in the garden. But short-season gardeners have a few tricks up their sleeves to grow vegetables and flowers a little earlier and later than usual. One technique that I have been using for years is growing in a cold frame. A cold frame is basically a box with windows or clear plastic on top. They are easy to make and they can also be purchased. It always amazes me how much heat can accumulate in a cold frame just http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=343 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=343 Sat, 12 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Gardeners are funny, aren't they? We boldly transplant a rosebush during the heat of the summer, toil fearlessly around the dagger-like spines of an agave, and mercilessly hack our daylilies in half with a hatchet. But root a little cutting? Some of us (no names, please) thought that rooting anything was so fussy that we never tried it at all. So if you're like me (okay, it was me), here is a "baby steps" rooting project to get your feet wet. We're going to start with a spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant that gardeners have been http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=348 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=348 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Community gardens have a long and rich history in our country. Originating in the nineteenth century to help feed jobless people and alleviate poverty, community gardens have been used for the last 150 year during times of economic crisis to help feed people and put them back to work. Today, they play a key role in inner city revitalization and have enjoyed a resurgence of interest during the recession. Community gardens can be used in the classroom to teach kids about history, math, and local food systems. Here are some ways to explore community gardens with kids: Describe the history of community http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=336 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=336 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners that live out in rural areas are encountering unique challenges when it comes to landscaping their yards-they either inherited a septic field when they bought their house, or had a septic system installed, and a septic field comes with a very specific list of dos and don'ts. Landscaping incorrectly in septic areas can damage your septic system, leading to untold inconvenience and costing you thousands of dollars in repairs.You can avoid such problems by following these guidelines, but always check with your septic company for their specific recommendations for your area. Do plant in your septic field, even if http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=347 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=347 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT Parts of our country seem to be inundated with a growing deer population-yes, they're cute, especially the fawns, but they can do a lot of damage in the landscape. Plants pulled out by their roots, a plethora of deer tracks through your new perennial garden, and plants chewed down to the nubs are just a few of the problems many gardeners face on a daily basis. Do you need to give up your vision of a beautiful garden if you have deer in your area? Not even close! But there are considerations to take into account when planning your deer-populated http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=346 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=346 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT It won't be too long before the first strawberries will be growing, flowering, and fruiting. While most gardeners are familiar with the June-bearing strawberries common in farm stands, grocery stores, and farmers' markets, there are other types of strawberries that are ideal for small-space gardeners. Some of my favorites are the alpine strawberries. Diminutive alpine strawberries are perfect for the space-starved gardener. They grow well in the front of flower borders, in herb gardens, in raised vegetable garden beds, and in containers. Since they grow only 1 foot tall and wide, they can fit into almost any sunny or partly sunny http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=335 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=335 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT There are many challenges that I face as a landscape designer-planning around munching deer or digging dogs, finding plants that will work in deep shade, and dealing with temperatures that soar over 100 degrees F. But the biggest challenge I face on every project is soil health-more specifically, drainage. It's not the most glamorous or fun part of gardening, but if you want your plants to grow and thrive, start with great soil. We have to become soil detectives if we want our gardens to grow well, and here are a list of clues that I look for when http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=345 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=345 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT While northern areas are still looking at snow on the ground, gardeners in the west and south are thinking planting. Bare-root roses are available now and can be planted in warmer areas. Gardeners in northern areas might do a little more research to find the best rose variety for their gardens before planting in a month or so. Generally, wait until all threat of cold weather has passed and the ground has thawed and dried out before planting. Bare-root roses are shipped to retail outlets in a dormant state and are only available for a month or so in late winter http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=328 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=328 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you live in a very cold part of the country, you might be getting tired of twiddling your thumbs while you wait for the weather to warm up! Even gardeners who live in mild climates might be getting a wee bit bored because they're not doing any "real" gardening. But gardening is so much more than putting plants in the ground and watching them grow. Winter is the perfect time to review your garden and take stock of what you have, so follow this list to be sure you are staying on top of all your garden chores. Conduct http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=339 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=339 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT I can vaguely remember when I first heard about hostas. I wasn't really into gardening then, but my mother was singing their praises and it made an impression on me. Years later, I had some hostas of my own and I then knew why she loved having them in her gardens. This versatile plant is one of the easiest to grow in perennial gardens and borders, with most hostas performing best in dappled-shade areas. But there are some that tolerate sun too, such as 'Sun Power', 'Krossa Regal', and 'Halcyon', although we're talking a northern sun-Zone 6 and north. Generally, the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=341 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=341 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT We've had a love affair with the lawn for decades in this country-that broad expanse of soft, lush green growth underneath our feet is simply luxurious. Although there's some movement for homeowners to go "lawnless"-and in certain cases, it may make sense-many neighborhoods require some lawn at least in the front yard. Here are some quick tips to ensure your 2011 lawn is the best it can be. Know when to start over. If your lawn is more than 60 percent weeds, it might make more sense to start over http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=338 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=338 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Gardening can be used to teach kids many academic subjects. One of the best ways to teach reading is to create a children's story garden. Young kids love story books and there are many related to gardening. Help your children choose a favorite book that has plant references in it. Then design a children's story garden together that can be planted this summer. Here are some tips: Select a story or stories to create a garden around this summer. Some good examples are Jack in the Bean Stalk, The Secret Garden, Tops and Bottoms, and City Green. Depending on the reading http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=327 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=327 Sat, 26 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT If there's a single beloved garden vegetable, it's the tomato. And those who grow them are as passionate about growing them as many are about eating them. If you've never grown your own tomatoes before, it can be a bit intimidating to choose seeds or plants for your garden. Employees where plants are sold are your friends and will be able to help you select the best varieties for your needs, but here are a few things you may want to know before you go: Determinate versus Indeterminate Determinate tomato plants grow, produce fruit all at once, then start to go downhill. The http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=342 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=342 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's February. You're sick and tired of the cold, ice, and snow. You're done with down coats, fur-lined boots, and wearing three layers to bed. The problem is that winter isn't quite over yet. Even in some of the warmest areas of the country, we still have a good month left before we can put away our mittens. But all is not lost-there are things you can do to bring spring on a little more quickly, such as forcing branches to bloom indoors. "Forcing" simply means taking cuttings of spring-flowering trees and shrubs, and bringing them indoors to bloom early. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=337 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=337 Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Spring is a great time to plant trees and shrubs. They're just breaking dormancy and the ground is soft from spring rains, allowing the roots to grow and spread more readily. But those spring rains may also show the low and wet spots in your landscaping. Take this opportunity to notice these areas and plant trees and shrubs that appreciate the moisture. Many trees and shrubs will drown in soggy soil, but there are some that thrive in it. Rain gardens are a popular way to deal with such areas. A little research into which trees and shrubs are native to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=340 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=340 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's time to start planting seeds indoors for the spring garden, and this annual ritual is a great opportunity to teach kids about seed germination. While kids may be familiar with common garden seeds such as green beans, they may be surprised to learn that the corn, rice, and nuts they eat are actually seeds too. Here's how to help kids learn about, germinate, and observe different types of seeds. (These directions are for students in a class, but you can also do this project with your own children at home.) Explain and discuss what seeds need to germinate: water, the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=320 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=320 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Some edible plants are difficult to grow if a gardener doesn't have enough space, sun, soil depth, or warm weather. But herbs are much more forgiving, accepting a variety of conditions while still offering you their herby goodness. If you'd like to grow herbs but assumed your area was too cold in the winter, it's time to reconsider! Refer to this list for suggestions for perennial herbs, but as always, check with your county extension service for more specific recommendations. Lavender: There are numerous lavender varities, featuring different foliage textures, heights, and levels of cold hardiness. The most cold-hardy varieties (to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=333 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=333 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT We're not all that far off from planting seeds in our gardens for the cool-season vegetables. And if you haven't yet planned your vegetable garden, this is a great time to do it. That wall of seed packets can be overwhelming! It makes sense to grow the veggies you like to eat, although I try to grow at least one new thing each year. There are several vegetables that need the cool, early spring temperatures to grow well, so consider this when deciding what veggies to grow and when to start them. Considered growing these cool-season vegetables: Lettuce: Lettuce has been known to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=329 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=329 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT I hear you. You love tropical plants with their huge leaves, exotic flowers, and boisterous colors, but you live in Boise, Idaho, or Eden Prairie, Minnesota. I'm not going to lie to you-you can't change your area's weather patterns or soil conditions, but there are things you can do to bring some of the tropics into your space. Here are some easy guidelines for growing tropical plants in your cold-weather area: Know the Plants: There are actually very cold-hardy palm trees (windmill palms and pindo palms) and succulents (agaves and yuccas) that will survive under snow and ice. Others will collapse http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=331 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=331 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Fava or broad beans are popular in England and Europe, but haven't really caught on in America yet. That's too bad, because fava beans are easy to grow from seed, produce tasty beans for months (and even through the winter in milder climates), are attractive plants, and help build the soil. They're the all-purpose vegetable garden plant. Fava beans love cool soil and air temperatures, so plant them in spring around the time you'll be planting peas. They also make an excellent fall and winter crop when planted in late summer. Mature plants can survive temperatures into the low 20s F. To http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=319 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=319 Sat, 19 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT What if you could enjoy the flowers from your summer garden all year round? Sure, you can take pictures of them and enjoy looking back on the explosion of color in June at the height of your garden's glory. But wouldn't it be nice if you could have the actual flowers to enjoy during the colder winter months and beyond? When planning for your 2011 garden, as surely you're doing now, make it a point to grow some flowers called everlastings. As the name implies, this group of flowers lends itself particularly well to being preserved indefinitely. Here are some everlastings http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=334 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=334 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT While some of the country is under a deep freeze from November until February, gardeners in many regions grow annuals, perennials, and even edibles during the winter months. But even these areas can experience sudden cold snaps, freezing rain, or light snow. If you are used to a mild climate, cold weather can send you into a tailspin of confusion and garden anxiety. What plants need to be covered? Will my plants be killed in a light freeze? How do I know if a plant has died in an unusual hard freeze? Here are some handy tips for getting you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=330 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=330 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Some plants that grow well in the north would wilt in southern heat, while tropical plants that thrive in the south would downright freeze to death in the north. The hellebore, one of my favorite late winter, early spring bloomers, can be grown in both the north and the south (generally, Zones 4-9), and no matter when their intricate blooms emerge, they are a welcome sight. The flowers come in colors like green, ivory, pink, burgundy, purple, and yellow and may be solid, speckled, shaded, or bicolored, and have single or double blooms. Hellebores are often promoted as shade plants, but http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=332 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=332 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Who says you can't grow food indoors in the middle of winter? Sprouting seeds to eat is an easy way to get kids involved in food growing without having to leave home or the classroom. Sprouts are a common item in grocery stores and restaurant salad bars, but kids may not realize how easy they are to grow. Set up a sprout factory in your home or classroom and try out many different types of seeds for sprouting. Have kids observe which seeds sprout fastest, how the sprouts taste at different stages of growth, and which sprouts are their favorites http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=312 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=312 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Here's a little-known fact about succulents: not all of them require the year-round mild climate of Southern California. In fact, some succulents will do quite well in freezing conditions and even under snow! There is actually a wide range of growing conditions for succulents, so you should be able to find several that you love for your garden, whether you live in Wisconsin or Pennsylvania. A note before we get going: all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. Cacti are succulents with spines, so this list will include cacti as well. Agaves: Agaves are those wonderful http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=324 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=324 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Today is Valentine's Day, a big holiday for the floral industry. It's not the biggest-Christmas and Hanukkah are bigger, with Mother's Day coming in second-but make no mistake, there will be an incredible number of flowers purchased today. Roses make up the bulk of Valentine's Day floral purchases. I've often thought of having a theme garden centered around Valentine's Day so I can celebrate hearts and love all year round - with flowers. There are moon gardens that contain all white flowers, so why not a valentine garden? There certainly is no shortage of plants that would fit that theme. The first http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=326 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=326 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT The perfectly green, weed-free, manicured lawn has been a hallmark of the American landscape since the 1930s, but in recent years homeowners have begun to reconsider the lawn altogether. The high cost of watering and fertilizing, combined with the environmental costs of water waste, gas emissions from mowing, and fertilizers that leach into groundwater supplies have convinced many people to consider other options. But what are these other options? Removing or reducing a lawn is a big step, but these ideas can help you make the leap: Plant groundcovers. Some groundcovers will still need to be http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=323 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=323 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Trees and shrubs can provide the bones or structure of a garden. They can add beautiful flowers, interesting bark, attractive leaves, and fruits for wildlife. Selecting the right tree or shrub for your yard involves finding a plant that is hardy in your area, has an ultimate size that will fit in your location, and is not invasive or hard to care for. While new varieties of trees and shrubs aren't as ubiquitous as new varieties of vegetables or flowers, each year some interesting new selections are released by nurseries. Look for some of these this spring: 'Shiloh Splash' River Birch (Betula http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=311 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=311 Sat, 12 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Though most of my houseplants slow down their growth in my Zone 5 winter due to fewer daylight hours, they don't come to a screeching halt like their outside counterparts. Those that thrive in moderate to low light conditions handle the darker winters especially well. By this time of the year, as we are getting ready to usher in spring, I notice that several houseplants could benefit from a little pruning to improve their appearance. The vining plants, in particular, need to be trimmed. Besides giving the plants a better look, selective pruning is an opportunity to create new plants from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=325 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=325 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Trees are a precious resource in every ecosystem, providing shade, wildlife habitats, and oxygen, and improving air quality. Some neighborhoods even have tree ordinances requiring another tree to be planted for every one that is cut down, or protecting certain valuable species like oaks. So deciding when to remove a tree is serious business. Sometimes all that's necessary is a good pruning at the right time of year, but there are situations in which it's best to remove the tree altogether. Before reaching for your chainsaw, check out this list of hazardous tree situations: Trees planted http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=322 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=322 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT There are numerous reasons to grow your own food. Some are obvious, such as how much better they taste. There's nothing like straight-from-the-garden freshness when it comes to flavor. Your discerning taste buds prefer tart over sweet? The selection of seeds is vast in number and you can grow the varieties you prefer. As consumers, today we're more aware of complex health issues than ever before. But even common sense tells us that fruits and vegetables that are grown on a large scale are likely to be contaminated with pesticides. As a child, I remember being told to wash an apple http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=321 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=321 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT While the forest looks bleak and dead in winter, there's a lot kids can learn from deciduous trees. Winter is a good time to explore the forest with your class or family, noticing the different types of trees and discussing how they grow and live. The first step is to find a cut-down tree or cut a dead tree branch yourself. This will reveal the tree rings, which tell the life story of a tree. You can teach kids about the meaning of tree rings and show them how to identify the years in the tree's life when there was http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=304 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=304 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Roses have gotten a bit of a bad rap over the years for being fussy flowers. It's true that some rose varieties are higher-maintenance garden guests than others, but for the most part, roses have just a few simple requirements. February is the perfect time to tend to your roses; follow this rose-care checklist to make sure you have the best growing season ever. 1. Prune. In many areas of the country, Valentine's Day is a great time to prune roses. Try to remove about one-half to two-thirds of the height of the current bush. Prune all dead canes, any cane http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=315 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=315 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT It can be so confusing. What can you prune when? And when you do prune, what kind of pruner should you use? In the past, I either didn't prune at all or I sort of winged it. Neither was the ideal way to do things, but I didn't know any better. I've learned a bit about pruning since those days, and it's made all the difference in my garden. When to Prune Most spring-blooming shrubs will have already formed their flowering buds the previous autumn. These include lilacs, bigleaf hydrangeas, magnolias, and forsythia. If you prune these in the winter or spring, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=318 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=318 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Well, you might be neither old nor a MacDonald, but you might be considering a more self-sufficient lifestyle. If you count yourself among the growing number of people who want to grow their own food and live closer to the land, backyard farming could be for you. But "backyard farming" sounds a bit overwhelming, doesn't it? Does it mean you have to grow all your food, or have a bunch of animals or several acres? Not necessarily. Many gardeners with average suburban lots have successfully created minifarms according to their needs. Check out this list of possibilities for your backyard, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=314 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=314 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're looking for something a little different to grow as a houseplant this winter, why not try air plants? Air plants (Tillandsia) are unique plants in the Bromeliad family that are native to Central and South America. While most other plants need soil to grow their roots, air plants grow seemingly suspended in air. In the wild they hang from trees, using their roots only as anchors. Air plants are epiphytic, which means they get all the nutrients and water they need from the atmosphere. The most familiar air plant, Spanish moss, hangs from live oaks in the South. In http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=303 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=303 Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Vertical gardening is "all the rage" these days and though it's always been an option, it's being done in creative new ways. Using a trellis is just one way to grow "up" and is a great method for growing more in smaller spaces. If you understand which plants are climbers and like growing on a trellis, you'll likely find it easy to create a simple trellis for them. Easy plants to grow on trellises include morning glories, sweet peas, clematis, cucumbers, honeysuckle, cardinal climber vine, cypress vine, pole beans, climbing hydrangea, and wisteria. Last summer I made a simple teepee trellis from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=317 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=317 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT Remember that pond you painstakingly built last year in your garden? Although you may be enjoying the sound of bubbling or running water, if you didn't tuck in a few water plants, it might seem a bit bare to you now. And while water plants add to the natural, organic feel of any water feature, they also provide practical services to the water gardener. Here's a rundown of some different types of water plants, and why they're important for your pond: Floating Plants: These plants float freely on the surface of the water. Because they grow fairly quickly and can spread http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=313 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=313 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT When you think of perennial gardens, do you have visions of colorful flowers running through your mind? It seems that the flowers get all the attention, and all the glory, but in recent years, I've come to appreciate a great bed of foliage. In fact, if I had to choose-flowers or foliage-I'd choose the latter. Many times I've chosen a plant strictly for its foliage, and you likely have too. Oh, it may have beautiful blooms, but when you think about the number of days it flaunts its flowers versus the time spent arrayed in gorgeous green, it's clear which one http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=316 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=316 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT History is not an exciting topic in class for many kids. I remember being bored with the memorization of dates, people, and places. But history can come alive for kids if it's taught with a little imagination. One way to engage kids is by creating a historic garden. Gardens can be used to teach about many facets of a past culture. They're a jumping-off place for discussions about food, clothing, cultural traditions, and many other aspects of life. One of the best gardens to grow is an early American or colonial garden. Here's how to help kids design a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=296 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=296 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the most challenging tasks I face as a landscape designer is ensuring that every garden I create has evergreen "bones" so that during the winter, when other plants are dormant, there is some kind of structure to the garden. But not all of my clients like the traditional formal shrubs that many gardens have; they prefer plants that are more freeform and unclipped. So what plants do I turn to? I have three favorite evergreens that sneak their way into many of the gardens I design-I'm sure you'll find one that will work for you too! Rosemary: This is, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=309 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=309 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you grow plants indoors, whether in your house or in a greenhouse, no matter how careful you are, you'll eventually experience a pest problem of some sort. The first one I ever encountered was the little annoying fungus gnat. They're tiny and black, and they fly around the house like they own it. Once I got over my overwatering issue, the fungus gnat problem pretty much went away. But another pest eventually showed up for the party. When I first saw a mealybug, I didn't recognize it. I'd purchased an orchid and was dazzled by the magenta blooms. Orchids http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=310 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=310 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Container gardening is really on the rise, both indoors and out! For people who have limited space, have no ground to garden in, or just enjoy the daily ritual of caring for container plants, this type of gardening is the perfect choice. But with so many different kinds of containers to choose from, it can get downright confusing. Here's the skinny on what type of pot will work best for your plants. Terracotta: These are great pots to have around because they are readily available and relatively inexpensive. They also come in sizes ranging from the diminutive 4 inches up http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=308 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=308 Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Begonias are a diverse and amazing group of plants. The shapes, sizes, textures, and colors of the leaves make begonias showy even when not in bloom. The flower clusters add bright colors to shady spots where begonias naturally thrive. Although begonias are considered a common plant, do not be lulled to sleep by the generic wax begonias that are so readily available in spring where plants are sold. Dig a little deeper into the plant selections and you will be surprised by the tuberous begonias, rex begonias, and other species that can be grown as outdoor annuals (or perennials in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=295 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=295 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT As the winter continues, our thoughts turn to spring and we wish it would hurry up and get here. Though gardeners can work year-round in some parts of the country, others have to curb their enthusiasm until the temperatures become a bit warmer and the daylight hours increase a bit. Those who are fortunate enough to have a greenhouse have the advantage of starting seeds early. This can be done inside the house too, if you have an area you can set aside for the trays and you have the right lighting. But a cold frame is another easy way to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=307 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=307 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's easy to see why the peace lily (Spathiphyllum floribundum) is one of the most popular houseplants around-dark green glossy leaves, stunning white blooms that shoot up from the foliage, and relatively easy care. The key term here is "relatively"-although it is an easy, low-maintenance houseplant, the peace lily does have some specific requirements. Stick to them and you'll be rewarded with a gorgeous addition to your indoor garden. Soil: Peace lilies will grow in most any well-drained soil. It's best to use a high-quality commercial potting mix containing peat moss, bark, and sand. Never use regular garden soil. Light: Give these http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=306 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=306 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT As one who grew up learning to "clean your plate," I'm sensitive to the immense amount of food waste that goes on in many homes today, including my own. There's some guilt about that, made even more intense by the fact that some of the waste involves food that I've gone to great lengths to grow in my own garden. Some statistics estimate that an average of 1.5 pounds of food per person per day goes to waste. But we humans are good at justifying our actions, so perhaps there's a way to assuage the guilt. If there were an http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=305 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=305 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT All great gardens begin with a thought and a vision. Get your kids excited about gardening by linking it to one of their favorite creatures: the butterfly. Kids love the bright-colored wings and fluttering motions of butterflies. To encourage more butterflies to visit your garden, create a habitat that will attract them and keep them around. Here's how: Find a sunny location around your school, youth center, or home where a small butterfly garden can thrive. It can be as small as 100 square feet, but make sure it has a water source nearby and gets at least six hours of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=294 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=294 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Now, I don't mean the Arctic tundra, but if you live in an area that regularly sees temperatures dip below freezing in the winter, you can still have that lush tropical look that you love. Even my Zone 8a garden will often experience a hard freeze or an occasional ice storm or snowfall. Choose your palms wisely and they will add value, drama, and interest to your garden. Here are suggestions for the most cold-hardy palms around: Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei): One of the most cold-hardy palms is one of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=299 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=299 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT On the news today, it was reported that forty-nine of the fifty states had snow on the ground somewhere. Only Florida did not, and the way things are going, it's probably just a matter of time before it will join in. So cabin fever continues and is likely to get worse before it gets better, especially for those of us who like to spend time outside. Desperate times call for desperate measures, so here's a list of ways you can enjoy "gardens" while passing the time until you can take a hoe to the dirt. Digital photography has made it easy to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=302 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=302 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Most gardeners know that ladybugs are beneficial and welcome in our gardens-they lay eggs and hatch in the spring and keep those pesky aphids and mites under control. We know they're cute brightly colored bugs that everyone likes to play with, and they're great fodder for budding photographers. But did you know that they are around even in the winter? They're not very active, mind you, and don't travel around in great numbers, but they here and sometimes migrate into our homes during the cold winter months. Cause for alarm? Not at all. Although most of us don't really like having http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=298 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=298 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT In many homes the only thing green in January is the houseplants. These subtropical and tropical plants create a jungle-like atmosphere in your home at just the time you need a little green boost. But houseplants need care, especially proper watering. In my experience, the number one reason houseplants die is improper watering. They're forgiving plants, but overwatering, in particular, is a sure way to kill one off. To properly water your houseplants, you first need to know the type of plant, the location in your house, and the size of the pot. This information will help you water them correctly. Some http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=293 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=293 Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Winter. Bleah. The skies are gray, the grass is brown, and I've had quite enough of a break from the garden. But the garden still sleeps, not wanting to wake until far-off spring warms its bones a little bit. Save for the evergreens, the landscape is devoid of any signs of life-or is it? Bundled up in my scarf and heavy coat, I take just a short walk out the back door and stop to really look at these sleeping plants. There are trees and shrubs that have been hushed for the winter, but look! What's that? Buds? The pussy willow before http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=301 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=301 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT All throughout the South during the fall and winter, gardeners take leave of their senses and become lemmings. They grab their pruners and follow their neighbors and even some landscape crews that should know better, and walk right off the cliff. What's going on? They're practicing a form of pruning called "topping" on their crape myrtles, forever ruining the shape of this Southern favorite and dooming them to a life of shame amongst their fellow trees. What's "topping," you ask? Topping is a type of pruning in which all branches are cut uniformly across the top of a plant, like http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=297 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=297 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Orchids, those darlings of the tropics, have an undeserved reputation for being difficult to grow. Perhaps their exotic and intricate beauty makes you think they're fussy and impossible. And because for years they weren't easily obtainable, maybe you've assumed they're only for experienced growers and collectors. Don't believe it. To be honest, growing Phalaenopsis isn't like growing Philodendron. The latter is nearly impossible to kill if you pay any attention to it at all. But growing a moth orchid (Phalaenopsis sp.) requires only a little more attention in order for the plant to be healthy and bloom repeatedly. When you see an http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=300 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=300 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT While we often talk to kids about gardens in their yard, at school, or in their community, it's also important for children to understand that gardening is a worldwide activity. People from Australia to China to England love gardening, and their love of gardening is revealed in the gardens that grow in the diverse climates of these countries. Public gardens are also a place to preserve biological diversity. Teach kids about some great gardens from around the world and help them learn some geography at the same time. Try this fun activity: Research five famous public gardens from around the world, such http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=286 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=286 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT We know it's all the rage to have chickens in your backyard. But you're not trendy-you're just interested in having fresh free-range eggs and saving a little money. I hear you. So if you have the space and are ready to take the plunge, you need to know what the first steps are. It pays to do your homework ahead of time when you're dealing with live creatures. Here are a few simple guidelines to get you going: Check local laws and ordinances. In some cities, or in some parts of cities, having chickens in your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=290 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=290 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT The calendar says there is a little over two months until spring. But depending on where you live, the spring's actual arrival has little to do with the calendar. Here in Ohio, spring for a gardener won't be here until the first part of April. By that time, we're chomping at the bit to get into the garden. We've had enough of the frigid cold and we want to dig right in and do some real gardening. But we shouldn't overlook an opportunity to get into the garden now. Sure, the ground is frozen and may even be under several inches http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=292 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=292 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Looking for a good organic way to jazz up your landscape? Try adding some rock! I use various types of rock in projects for my clients, but over the years I've realized that my clients are not familiar with the different types. If you learn the names of different decorative rocks, you'll have an easier time locating them and figuring out how to use them. Keep in mind that within these large categories, there are many styles, types, and colors. Chop Rock: This rock is mechanically cut into rectangles or blocks of different sizes, from 4 x 6 inches all the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=288 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=288 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT With the New Year comes an opportunity to redesign your vegetable garden. While I grow some tried-and-true varieties that produce well in my Vermont garden, such as 'Big Beef' tomato, 'Envy' edamame, and 'Red Noodle' asparagus bean, I always like to try some new varieties each year. You never know when you'll find a variety that offers exceptional production, color, size, or flavor. So it's an annual ritual for me to browse through the new vegetable varieties featured by various seed companies, then make my selections. Of course, I always buy more seeds than can easily fit in my garden, but http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=285 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=285 Sat, 15 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT One of the things I found it hardest to face when I was new to gardening was the loss of plants. It seemed like no matter how diligent I was at taking care of them, sooner or later one would wither and die. It was discouraging. I say "was" because even though I still lose a plant now and then, most of the time I take a short time to mourn the loss and go on. No more guilt, unless I know I was shirking on my duties and in those cases, it served me right. Part of the fun and challenge http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=291 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=291 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT In the fascinating world of garden bugs, it's usually clear who's the Good Guy and who's the Bad Guy, and then we act accordingly. Not so with the praying mantis. These insects are so carnivorous that they're bound to snack on some of our nicer bugs as well as the pesky ones; in fact, they will even go after each other! But if we have to decide, it's generally accepted that the praying mantis is more good than bad. Depending upon the particular species, this bug can be as small as 2/5 inch in length or as gigantic as 6 inches. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=287 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=287 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT We have an ongoing feud at our house. From the time our younger daughter could phonetically express her displeasure (at around the age of one year), she did so with gusto whenever I would serve cooked carrots. Of course, I started her out on cooked ones because she didn't have a single tooth in her head until she was thirteen months old. (Yes, that's extremely late.) When she finally got enough teeth to chew raw carrots, she decided she liked those, but in all her twenty-eight years, she never learned to like them cooked. I, on the other hand, love http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=289 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=289 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Healty eating is a habit that starts in childhood. In school or at home, you can help children select healthy foods by teaching them how to read nutrition labels. You don't have to make the process complicated or confusing. By concentrating on certain key entries on a nutrition label and teaching kids about their meaning, you can teach a new generation of consumers to select the best food products for themselves and their families. Instead of looking at all the information on the standard nutrition label, focus on these words: Sodium: Although sodium is essential, most people http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=278 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=278 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT I love water in the garden-it has a cooling, soothing effect on even the hottest days, and it provides movement and life in the winter garden when all else is still and dormant. And I love how water gardening is available to gardeners with spaces of all sizes, from multiacre yards down to urban balconies. If you've always wanted a water feature in your garden, now is the perfect time to plan the location, type, and style of your feature. Here's a roundup of water garden types for you to consider: Ponds: In most cases you'll need some ground http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=281 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=281 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT With the chilly weather of winter, many of my container plants have come inside until spring. This year, I've got the advantage of a greenhouse, so many of my plants are spending the winter there. I've got tropical hibiscus, pelargoniums, brugmansias, and several others. In previous years, these plants spent the winter in our cool basement (a constant 57 degrees F) under fluorescent lighting. Many would go into a semidormant state, while others would continue to grow, with some of them even producing blooms. We keep the greenhouse temperature between 60 and 65 degreees F, and this increase of only a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=284 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=284 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT If you're lucky, you live in a mild climate where gardening is still a possibility in the winter. If you're less lucky, you're knee-deep in snow and ice, and gardening is a far-off dream. But wherever you are, all is not lost! Take these cooler, less active months to plan for future garden projects and expansions. Grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, curl up by the fireplace, and indulge in some armchair gardening. Garden Books and Magazines: There is a wealth of knowledge in garden publications. You'll find how-to tips, new plants to try, and answers to pesky garden http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=280 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=280 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT With the new year comes an abundance of new plant varieties. It's hard to know which new plants to try in your garden. They all sound beautiful and productive from their descriptions, and they look lovely online and in garden centers. You can certainly choose your plants based on your color preference or the description, but if you select plants that require less maintenance and have a strong growth habit, they will look good all summer. To help you decide what to buy, there are some nonprofit groups that conduct trials of new varieties each year to determine which are the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=276 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=276 Sat, 08 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Unless you live in an area where you can grow plants outside year-round, winter can get kind of boring when it comes to gardening. Most of us comtemplate what we will grow in our gardens in the coming year-what we'll plant in the spaces around the perennials and what sorts of edibles we'll grow. In my own garden here in Ohio, vegetable gardening doesn't truly start until April, at the earliest, unless you have the means to start some seeds indoors. The soil isn't warm enough before then to facilitate germination and the last frost date is somewhere around Mother's Day. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=283 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=283 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT The dragonfly is one lucky insect-many bugs are pesky, ugly, fearsome, or undesirable in the garden, but the dragonfly is none of these. This insect, a member of the order Odonata, is elegantly beautiful and does good garden deeds nearly year-round. Clearly, this is an insect to harbor and keep around. One of the most easily recognizable of the garden bugs, the dragonfly has large, multifaceted eyes, two pairs of transparent wings, and an elongated body. Dragonflies frequently sport opalescent jewel tones of green, blue, and yellow on their bodies, and although they have the six legs that other insects possess, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=279 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=279 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT It seems like we always want what we don't have. People born with curly hair want it straight. Those who live in the north wish winter weren't so cold (or didn't last so long). And gardeners often have a case of zone envy-they want to grow plants that can't survive year-round in their not-quite-warm-enough zone. But sometimes there's a way to have your cake and eat it too. Many tropical plants can be grown as container plants in the home. If you've got a sunny window, you can grow several types throughout the winter, and then move them outside to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=282 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=282 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Winter is a great time of year to take stock of your garden and think about planning a new one. There are many advantages to planning out your new garden now. First of all, you have the time. In most parts of the country, winter is a downtime, so it gives you extra time to research, chat with professionals, and dream of the garden you'd like to have. Also, winter is a stark time of year in the landscape. It's easier to see the bones of your yard. These are the permanent structures and features in your landscape, such http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=269 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=269 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT I used to be afraid of orchids. Not clinically speaking, of course, but they looked so exotic, so otherworldly, that I was sure I'd kill them out of ignorance. Well, I did wind up killing my first two orchids, but it was because I loved them to death. I assumed that a plant so gorgeous needed extra-special care, and I was wrong. Orchids are indeed exotic houseplants, but aside from a few easy care requirements, they are relatively low maintenance. You can keep orchids alive fairly easily, but to ensure thriving blooms, they have six requirements: Light: Orchids love bright, indirect http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=274 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=274 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT "Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme," and all that. Rosemary must be significant. It pops up in sayings and songs and on the beef roast. This herb, Rosmarinus officinalis, which means "dew of the sea," is native to the Mediterranean, but is loved the world over for the heady fragrance of its needle-like leaves and for the flavor it gives to prepared foods. I bought a rosemary plant today. It's not hard to find them throughout the holiday season. I wanted it for its fragrance. As with another herb, lavender, I love just running my hands over the plant and breathing in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=275 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=275 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT There are few things that get me going like an easy, fast garden project that requires eating. So it is with great pleasure that I offer you the Great Avocado Tree-Growing Project, where you must first consume an entire luscious avocado (a food group in its own right), and then commit to three minutes to complete the project. This sounds like a science fair project, doesn't it? Or one that your third grade teacher would have the entire class do. It doesn't matter; it's avocados and we're going to grow one. The project goes like this: eat the avocado, save and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=273 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=273 Sun, 02 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT It's the new year and a good time to resolve to eat healthier foods. While we all know that eating fresh fruits and vegetables is good for you, it's important to emphasize this with our kids. Whether it's at home or in school, encourage kids to eat a diet heavy in fruits and vegetables to keep their bodies healthy. You can teach kids to be better food consumers by using this food detective activity to show them where their fruits and vegetables come from. Have kids track what foods they eat in one day, paying particular attention to any foods containing http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=268 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=268 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CDT Winter is absolutely and definitely upon us. In the north, this means the landscape has made a definite change. Brown dominates, with some verdant shades of evergreens here and there. At times, pristine white snow covers it all. There's plenty to add some color to it all, though, if you just know what to plant. A couple of years ago, I bought three red-twig dogwood shrubs (Cornus sericea 'Cardinal', Zones 2-8). Even though they were called red-twig, it was spring and the branches were a yellow-green color. But when late fall arrived, these shrubs came alive. With the cold temperatures, they http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=270 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=270 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Gardeners everywhere know how easy it is for a garden myth to be passed on. "Top off those crape myrtles, they'll flower better!" or "It's a zero-scape; it doesn't need any water!" And gardeners here in the southern part of the United States have likely grown up hearing their granny say, "Eunice should get that ball moss out of her oaks. It's gonna kill them." Well, sorry, Granny, I'm going to rip that Band-Aid off right now: ball moss does not kill a tree. It doesn't suck the nutrients out of towering live oaks, causing their limbs to die and fall http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=272 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=272 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT The holiday season continues, with Christmas and Hanukkah behind us and the new year before us. Of course, fancy food and snacks reign supreme, as is the case with many of our celebrations. Certain foods have come to be associated with particular holidays, such as turkey for Thanksgiving and barbecue for the Fourth of July. One of the foods Americans like to eat at these end-of-the-year holidays is mincemeat pie, but the tradition originated in England. I'll admit that I've never eaten mincemeat and for years I never even knew what mincemeat was. It's a centuries-old ingredient for pastry pies, and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=271 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=271 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT While most kids think of cacti as desert plants, you can actually grow most of them indoors if you have enough light. In fact, they're great houseplants because they don't require frequent watering, they like the dry conditions indoors in winter in most homes, and they grow slowly, which means they rarely need pruning or transplanting. They're also good plants in the classroom. Cacti are unique because of their lack of woody tissue, their thick succulent stems, and their water-retaining leaves. Yes, most have thorns as protection against hungry animals, so you'll have to be careful when handling cacti. But the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=260 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=260 Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I can't even imagine a garden without some variety of ornamental grass-I love the wispy texture, the billowy lightness, and the seedheads waving in the breeze. They add a sense of untamed graciousness to a garden that is difficult to obtain with any other plant. Yet, as much as gardeners have fallen in love with these grasses, many seem perplexed by their care. Spring, summer, and fall care is easy-peasy-plant these babies, water them to get them going, and watch them grow! They're like garden Chia Pets. It's the winter care, particularly in areas with mild weather, that seems to have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=263 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=263 Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Much of the nation has been experiencing colder than normal temperatures in recent weeks, thanks to cold air coming down from Canada. Even those of us who live in the north and are used to cold winters are shivering. Have you ever wondered how plants manage to make it through these cold days? Perennials by definition are plants that live more than two years. This means that they must have a means of protection built in so that they can survive some pretty brutally cold temperatures! Not all plants are as hardy as others, which is where zone ratings come in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=266 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=266 Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I live in a great apartment community that pays lots of attention to the grounds and landscaping. We have mature palms, ornamental trees, and many evergreens that provide year-round interest. What we don't have, and what I'm sure my apartment manager never wants to have, is high-maintenance, flower-driven landscaping that is expensive to keep up. I've taken some clues from this style of designing for my clients who want a visually interesting garden but aren't terribly interested in flowers. Is this possible? Absolutely-and here's how: Choose evergreens. If you don't have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=262 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=262 Sun, 26 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT So your friends and family did it. Knowing you love gardening, they all bought you holiday potted plants for gifts. Now you have a jungle of cyclamens, amaryllis, azaleas, hydrangeas, and potted tulips. They look beautiful now, but what about in a week or a month? You can keep your holiday plants looking good with a little TLC. Here's a rundown on caring for some of the most common gift plants: Remove the pretty plastic wrappers around the pots and find a spot near a cool, sunny window to grow your gifts. Most of these plants won't get enough light perched on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=259 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=259 Sat, 25 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT It seems like everyone I know wants chickens-gardeners and nongardeners alike. I used to want chickens, too. Our neighbors have over fifty of them, and one day a few years ago, several wandered down our way and took a stroll through our yard and gardens. They were beautiful creatures, with their black-and-white feathers and red wattles. They strutted their stuff and the rooster who tagged along would crow loudly, and I thought it was the coolest thing. I imagined having some of our own and how great it would be to have fresh eggs every day. I expressed my desire for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=265 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=265 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I have a client who has three dogs: two border collies with ADD and a smaller mixed-breed with food aggression issues. My client loves her dogs like they were children, and like all of us with our kids (human or canine), she doesn't always discipline them the way she should. I've been working with her lately to install a meadow in her front yard, but I realized these three dogs are going to be very active in this garden, so I got smart and did some planning. Here are some handy tips if you want both your garden and your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=261 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=261 Thu, 23 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I was in college, several of my friends and I attempted to grow an avocado from the pit inside some we bought at the grocery store. We'd heard that it was possible-easy, even-to grow an avocado plant in this way. Though only a couple of us were successful at getting it to sprout (I wasn't one of them), the thought of being able to do this was pretty fascinating. There are a number of things you can grow using the seeds found in items you buy at the grocery. And there are a couple that you can grow using a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=267 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=267 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I have a pet peeve, and it has to do with where plants are placed. My friends and family have long tired of hearing me complain about this, but it's not just an aesthetic issue, but a safety issue. Creating tripping hazards or line-of-vision issues are nothing to laugh about, and I'm on a mission to correct these problems! Here are the top offenders, in random order: Mailboxes: Please don't plant an agave or prickly pear cactus by your mailbox; your mail carrier will think that you hate her. Or that you are antisocial and don't care about getting any mail. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=255 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=255 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT The season of ice and snow is upon us. No one likes to slip and fall on slippery ice, so chemical deicers are often used to melt ice and snow before it becomes dangerous to walk on. While these deicers work great, there is a down side. Many contain chemicals, such as chloride, that eventually leach into the nearby lawn and garden. You won't see any consequences now while everything is frozen, but in spring the lawn will be browned along the walkway and driveway, and shrubs may not leaf out as fully. Two of the most common deicers are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=258 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=258 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Northern gardeners welcome the break from active gardening that winter gives them. By fall cleanup time, many plants are done for the year and are beginning their decline. As much as we love our carrots and coneflowers, we need the respite as much as our gardens do. But once the holidays are over and behind us, and the seed catalogs have begun arriving in our mailboxes, it isn't long before our thoughts turn to the garden and we're itching to get our hands dirty again. It's too early to start those tomato seeds, and growing house plants isn't quite the same http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=256 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=256 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT About ten years ago, I bought my second house and I couldn't wait to get started putting in the garden. I ripped out the ratty nandinas that had taken over, and I trimmed up the crape myrtle. I outlined the new bed with a garden hose and began removing grass in order to make way for the new plants. But then everything came to a screeching halt. I couldn't figure out what plants to use, and suddenly the beds didn't seem to complement the house. I was stumped; in my old house, I was able to create a new garden http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=254 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=254 Sun, 19 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Gardeners just have to stay busy outside, no matter the weather. If you're itching to do something in the yard even though most common garden chores are finished for the season, there are some options. One is to take hardwood cuttings of your favorite shrubs. Hardwood cuttings of shrubs are taken from one-year-old wood while the plants are dormant. If you have a beautiful boxwood, cotoneaster, forsythia, holly, mock orange, rose, or viburnum, you can take cuttings now to root this winter and grow next year. Here's how. With a sharp knife or pruner, cut off a 1-foot-long section of a healthy http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=251 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=251 Sat, 18 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT The first time I became aware of plants whose fragrance was stronger in the evening was when I brought in several angel's trumpets (Brugmansia sp.) for the winter a few years ago. They aren't hardy in Zone 5, so we stored them in the basement, where we had a greenhouse (of sorts) set up. It is cooler in the basement, so eventually the plants kept there go dormant, but usually not before eking out a few more blooms. One evening, I went down to check on the plants and before I was halfway down the stairs, I noticed a very pleasant, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=257 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=257 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT This time of year, everyone is baking up a storm. Holiday open houses, family get-togethers, cookie swaps, your kids' class parties-all are asking you to bring a dozen or two of something sweet and irresistible. Now, you might be the kind of baker that has a particular recipe that you're famous for, and your friends would all be disappointed if you didn't make it. But what if you're snickerdoodled and sugar cookied out? I know I go through a mental checklist that goes something like this: "No, I can't bake gingersnaps; that's what I always do. They'll think I don't http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=253 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=253 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the best things about visiting family in Florida is that they live near the beach. Bradenton is on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and has some of the nicest beaches in the state. Walking one of those beaches on a nice sunny day is an experience like no other, especially when it's in the dead of winter. Another advantage of being in Bradenton is that it's the home of one of the major producers of orange juice, and the scent of fresh oranges permeates the air throughout the city. I'll bet air fresheners don't sell very well http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=252 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=252 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you're a gardener, you probably already know that the lowly earthworm is your garden's best friend. They're like ladybugs-we all know they're good and that we should protect them; we even teach our children not to kill them when they unearth them. But do we know why? It's very simple, really-as the earthworm burrows through your garden, the tunnels it makes aerate the soil, breaking up compacted soils and adding to healthy drainage. It also feeds upon decomposing matter, taking in nutrients and minerals and returning them to the soil. But what else can you do with earthworms, aside http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=246 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=246 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT It may be cold and snowy outside, but building a plant terrarium can be a fun way to engage kids in gardening activities indoors. Terrariums are great educational tools and allow kids to learn about plants, even if the kids aren't out in the garden. Plus, if you have little space for grow lights or large indoor houseplants, a terrarium is a great small-space way to have greenery indoors. Here's how to set one up. The Glass: You'll first need a container to grow plants in. An old aquarium, a glass bell jar, a large glass vase, or even a clear http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=250 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=250 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT On the way through town the other day, I noticed one of the grocery stores had a sign advertising whole pecans for seven dollars a pound. In my part of the country, that's a pretty good price, and I made a note to myself to stop and get some when I had more time. Pecans are one of my favorite nuts, in fact, my very favorite. Once, a friend from Georgia sent me a large box of fresh pecans from the trees in his backyard and I spent hours shelling those luscious nuts. For every three I shelled, one http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=248 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=248 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT We've all probably done it. I know I have. You have a tree, little or big, and you want it gone. It's shading out your sunny perennial bed, or it was planted too close to your house and you're worried about damage to your foundation. So you get out your chainsaw and cut it down; maybe you use the branches and trunk as firewood. That's all good, except for a year later, the tree stump is still there. No problem, you say? You'll get around to removing it eventually. And aside from looking a little Beverly Hillbilly-esque, it's not really hurting http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=244 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=244 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Some gardeners consider African violets old-fashioned and out of vogue, but I like them because they produce the one thing lacking in many households in winter: colorful flowers. African violets are native to east Africa and they thrive under part sun and humid conditions. They are a very forgiving houseplant, and with the right conditions, you can enjoy African violet flowers for months in the dead of winter. Some of the fun of African violets is the variety. There are single-, double-, ruffled-, and picotee-flowered varieties in almost any color of the rainbow. Some varieties have variegated leaves, while others are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=249 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=249 Sat, 11 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT A certain former president of the United States made no bones about his distaste for broccoli. No amount of coaxing was going to get him to eat it in any way, shape, or form, regardless of how healthy a food it is. I used to be that way about broccoli, too. Then I found out that I like it cooked, with butter or cheese. What changed my mind was my tasting a broccoli-cheese-rice casserole that someone brought to a family dinner. Wow, it was good! I still don't like raw broccoli, though. I'm not a lover of raw vegetables in general. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=247 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=247 Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I love a good easy houseplant, don't you? And a houseplant that will be happy outdoors on your patio or balcony is even better. So if you haven't tried the wonderful kalanchoe, now's the time! First, let's clear up the pronunciation: I have it on good authority that the correct way to pronounce this succulent is "callen-KO-wee," rather than "cah-LAN-cho." But, call it what you like, this is a plant for you to try. A native of Madagascar, the kalanchoe has varieties ranging from a few inches tall up to tree sized, but the most popular houseplant variety grows up to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=245 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=245 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT The largest part of our garden has a farm field as its backdrop. Some years it has corn, others it has wheat or soybeans. The dead furrow, which is the little ditch between our yard and the actual planted part of the field, accumulates growth throughout the season and by fall the vegetation can become quite thick and varied. Sometimes it's interesting to see just what comes up in that furrow. Last year and this year, by midsummer it was apparent that the snow-on-the-mountain annual that I grow each year had somehow made its way there. Actually, it's not surprising. Euphorbia http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=241 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=241 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the things I love about gardening is that you can always learn something new. A different variety of your beloved daylily, an improved organic method, a better pruning technique-there's no standing still in the garden world. So I suppose it serves me right that just as I was feeling fairly smug about my grub knowledge, I got knocked down a peg or two. We all know that those little grubs in the lawn and garden are bad, right? The larvae of the June bug munches on the roots of both grass and prized plants, and when we http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=236 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=236 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT With the holidays upon us, it's good to get your kids and grandkids involved in activities that celebrate the season. What better way to engage a child than with garden crafts? While many of the plants are probably gone from your garden, there are plenty of natural materials in the garden, meadow, and woods that can be used for craft projects. One of the most rewarding projects is making a garden wreath. In the classroom making wreaths is a good activity for honing kids' observation skills. You can have the children identify the different plant parts to be used for the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=243 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=243 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT I wonder what the scenario was when the first person decided to try and grow plants in pots inside his or home. Was it a cave dweller who put cacti just inside the front door to ward off intruders? Or maybe the reason was something simpler-perhaps it was the same motivation we have today-houseplants are just nice to have around. Every winter, my husband and I take care of around 175 plants in our house. About half of these are plants that live outside in the summer, but can't survive our cold Ohio winters. They look too good to allow them http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=239 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=239 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT You have to love a tree whose genus name means "fruit of the gods"-if the gods love it, it's got to be good! I love the American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) because it's one of the few trees that fruit out in late fall to early winter, and because the fruit is spectacularly delicious. There are nearly two hundred varieties of persimmon trees, many originating from different parts of Asia, but the American persimmon is native to most parts of the United States from the East Coast to central parts south of the Great Lakes. Hardy to Zone 5, these trees can http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=240 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=240 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you love orchids and have had some success growing moth orchids (Phalaenopsis), the most adaptable orchid for indoor growing, then maybe it's time to try some fragrant orchids. As beautiful as orchid flowers are, many of these decorative blooms don't have a noted fragrance. Maybe it's because their looks alone are enough to lure insects to them for pollination. But fragrant orchids are becoming more readily available, and with a little hunting you'll be able to find some of these beauties for your collection. Here are some of the best choices for indoor growing. These orchids are best adapted to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=242 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=242 Sat, 04 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I first started gardening, I had much to learn. Now that I've been at it for a while, I still do, but that's what's fun about gardening. There's always something new and challenging. Since I grew houseplants before I started growing things outside, one of the first lessons was how to repot a plant when it grew too large for its original container. I thought I could just go outside and scoop up some soil from the neighbor's field and put my plant in that. It didn't take very long for me to find out this wasn't a good http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=238 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=238 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes a gardener hears distinctly opposite garden care advice from different sources, leaving said gardener confused and anxious about choosing the wrong technique or method. Case in point? Growing vines on buildings, specifically your beloved house. Can you do it? Should you do it? Will it ruin your brick or stonework? Depending upon the source, it's either a gorgeous time-tested practice, or a treacherous ill-conceived mess. And the definitive answer is . . . both! I have actually researched this one quite thoroughly over the years; I used to be a groundskeeper for a private music venue that featured breathtaking ivy-covered http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=237 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=237 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's hard to go just about anywhere this time of the year without seeing poinsettias. Red ones, pink ones, white ones, purple ones. Wait . . . purple ones? Well, yes. It seems that you can now have poinsettias in just about any color of the rainbow, if you want to. I prefer the original colors, but there are some interesting new varieties out there. While I don't buy a poinsettia every year, I'm always tempted. Nothing really screams Christmas like they do. It's not really the flowers that grab my attention-it's the bracts. The flowers are at the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=235 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=235 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's been proven that eating more fruits and vegetables is better for your health and reduces obesity, but getting kids to eat more fruits and vegetables can be a struggle. Sometimes kids have a bias against a certain fruit or vegetable because of a bad experience eating it or even peer pressure. If all your friends hate broccoli, you might too, just to fit in. One way to get kids to try different fruits and vegetables is to have them rename the plant. As odd as it sounds, kids may be more motivated to try a vegetable if they like the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=228 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=228 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Many of my clients enlist my help several times a year to create beautiful container plantings for their decks, patios, entryways, and balconies. They love the lush plantings, the vivid flowers, the exuberant color combinations. But some of my clients don't love the maintenance or extra watering that's often necessary to keep those plantings looking amazing. So do they give up on containers? No way! They ask me to xeriscape them. You know, everything that can be planted in the ground can be planted in a pot. Plants in pots simply have slightly different requirements. If you'd like to try container http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=232 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=232 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the first plants I ever got was a really cool plant that looked sort of like a small Christmas tree. It was a houseplant and I think I got it at the no-longer-in-business national chain Frank's. It stood about 3 feet tall, pot and all, and it was the most luscious shade of deep green with feathery needled branches that hung gracefully out from the main trunk. Though the tree was called a Norfolk Island pine, I found out later that it wasn't a true pine at all. The botanical name is Auricaria heterophylla, and like the pines, it http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=234 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=234 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Ever wonder what makes a particular garden "work"? Why you try and try and just can't seem to make a part of your landscape gel? Take heart, we've all been there. Chances are good that if a garden really works or really doesn't, basic design principles are the reason. Take contrast, for example. Contrast is a tactic that successful designers employ to create interest in the garden-contrast can be in texture, color, size, or shape. Texture: This is one of my favorite ways to play with contrast, because it's more subtle. Try a spiky agave http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=231 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=231 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now that fall is upon us and those of us in colder climates have spent the last month raking leaves, the trees and shrubs are looking mighty bare. Only the evergreens are sporting green foliage and perhaps they receive more attention this time of the year because of it. This baring of the deciduous souls in our landscape reveals some things that might otherwise go unnoticed. Look up, and you can easily count the number of bird's nests that were in the trees all year. If the tree is of any size at all, more times than not, it will have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=224 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=224 Sat, 27 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT It seems like there are so many other things that go along with gardening. It's rather difficult to garden and not develop an interest in the birds, butterflies, and various kinds of wildlife. You don't have to like spiders, but it's pretty hard to ignore them when you're picking the beans. Last weekend, we had a flock of bluebirds in our yard. We last saw them in the spring, when they chose two of the three nesting boxes we put up for them (a family of wrens occupied the other). Once their families were raised, they moved on to other places. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=229 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=229 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT My brother likes his tools. Mechanical tools, technological tools, garden tools. When he gets into the garden with his tools, he turns into Edward Scissorhands without the artistry. Big hacking loppers? Check. Electric hedge clippers? Check. Those are all well and good if you need to prune an evergreen hedge, but some other plants require more finesse. I know, it's confusing-which plants can you just hack away at and they'll respond with vigorous growth? Which plants can you only prune during certain times of the year? First, let's have a plan. Understand that you are pruning for plant shape, plant health, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=230 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=230 Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Turkey, cranberry salad, pumpkins (and pies made from them!)-these make us think of Thanksgiving, and so does a cornucopia. I'm not sure my kids would know just what a cornucopia is, although I know they've seen it. They'd probably just call it a basket of fruits and vegetables. What exactly is a cornucopia anyway? Why the unusual name for an unusually shaped container of edibles? And what does it have to do with Thanksgiving? The word cornucopia is an old one, dating back to the fifth century BC. It comes from the Latin for two words: cornu means horn and copia http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=233 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=233 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT When teaching kids about soil and fertilizers, don't forget earthworms. Earthworms are nature's composting machines. There are more than one million worms in an acre of soil and they eat their weight in soil each day. They can produce more than 700 pounds of worm castings each day. Fortunately, you don't have to be outside to enjoy the miracle of worms. Indoor worm bins make raising worms in a classroom or at home a snap and give you the opportunity to show kids how these amazing creatures are essential to life. Here's how to get started. First, you need the right bin. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=219 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=219 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT I've never seen such a shift in gardening as I have this past year-people ripping out parts, if not all, of their front lawns and replacing them with edible ("victory") gardens! I think there are many reasons for this: increased awareness of lawn thirstiness, a desire to conserve water, trends toward growing your own food, a need to save money. But what is a victory garden, and how can you create one? Because many food items were rationed during World War II, the government encouraged Americans to plant their own vegetable gardens and grow their own food. So the term "victory http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=226 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=226 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now that the active growing season is finished for the year in much of the country, some of us are breathing a sigh of relief. We get a respite from the planting, weeding, and watering and we'll use the time off to think about the gardens we'll have next year. The seed catalogs will start arriving soon and we'll be making a list of our wants. But the rest of us look at late fall and winter with regret. We aren't ready to hang up our hoes and trowels. Getting our hands dirty is http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=225 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=225 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT So you took the plunge and tried your hand at herb gardening this year-good for you! But if you're thinking that your herb gardening activities are done until you can plant again in the spring, you're wrong! Take advantage of the last of your herbs by harvesting and drying them for cooking later. And while it's not as simple as clipping the herbs and tossing them on your kitchen counter, it's easy enough for the novice gardener and cook. Because the oils in your herbs are the strongest in the morning, it's best to harvest your herbs during those hours. These http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=223 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=223 Sun, 21 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners move their houseplants indoors this time of year to protect them in winter. After a summer outdoors basking in the sun and rain, most houseplants are healthy and happy. However, you may have brought other hitchhikers indoors when moving your houseplants. Aphids, mealybugs, scale, and whiteflies are just some of the pests that are on your houseplants or laid eggs on them when they were outdoors. To control these pests, quarantine the plants for a few weeks to see if any pest eggs hatch. If you have some pests, there are a few options. You can spray low-toxicity pest http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=218 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=218 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Most plants are going to sleep in November, waiting out the cold temperatures and low light levels until they can start growing again in spring. However, just because a plant is dormant doesn't mean it's not breathing. The leaves of evergreens, such as rhododendron, pieris, mountain laurel, and holly, are still taking water up from their root systems and transpiring moisture all winter long. This process helps keep the leaves green and alive. However, once the ground freezes in winter, the leaves can be starved of moisture. The first sign of moisture stress is curled leaves during cold nights. If http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=227 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=227 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT As I was growing up, it was my father who was the true gardener, toiling away in the garden and winning us "Yard of the Month" a number of times. My mother, on the other hand, was content with two plants and two plants only: roses and her beloved African violets. When I grew up and started gardening myself, I couldn't be bothered with African violets. "Granny plants," I'd scoff. And now . . . well, let's just say I've matured. African violets suddenly seem kind of retro-cool to me, so I'm giving them another shot. If you are, too, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=220 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=220 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT In the past, I'd never been a huge fan of tulips. Oh, I always enjoyed seeing them in other gardens-spring isn't spring without the lollipops of color showing up in the landscape after a dreary winter. But I never had the urge to grow them in any quantity in my own gardens. Then one year I planted a little thing called 'Lady Jane'. The bulbs were so small, not your typical tulip bulbs at all. I covered the bulbs with soil, and then I promptly forgot that I'd planted them until little green shoots started appearing the following spring. At http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=222 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=222 Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT With winter right around the corner, it's time to protect some of your landscape plants not only from the cold, but from critters as well. Young trees, such as crabapples and cherries, are prime targets for small rodents in winter. Mice and voles will hide in the tall grass or snow around the tree trunk and gnaw on the bark. In severe cases, they can gnaw all around the trunk, girdling and killing the tree. The worst part is that you may never even notice the damage until spring, and by then it's too late to do anything about it. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=211 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=211 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT We hear so much about "going green," "sustainability," and "eco-friendly," but what do these things really mean? There are people who use these words and phrases because it seems trendy, but what's really happening is a cultural shift. People are less willing to eat food from unknown origins, to spray pesticides in their home gardens, and to waste resources such as fuel and water in order to have the garden of their dreams. If you're like many who are interested and intrigued, but aren't quite sure what it all means, here are some guidelines to get you going: Use http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=221 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=221 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT What's your favorite color? Have you ever tried planting a flower bed using only plants that bloom in that color? Creating a garden with a monochromatic theme isn't anything new, but the plants that are available are always changing. New cultivars make it even easier for your garden to sport plants of a certain hue. A sweeping swath of color is always an attention ­getter, but there are ways that you can use it to its greatest potential. If, for example, I wanted to create a purple garden, I would start by making a list of plants that have purple http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=217 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=217 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT What, you never heard of sexy food before? Well, maybe it's a stretch, but anything that has a slightly spicy punch to it is sexy to me! That's why I love cilantro-it's not an overpowering herb, but it adds a bit of kick to every recipe. It's just a Mexican parsley. So here are a couple of recipes incorporating cilantro to punch up your next dinner of grilled salmon, tilapia, or chicken. If you're a bit sensitive to spice, it's easy to adjust the seasonings up or down, or omit the peppers. Citrus Salsa 3 navel oranges 2 limes 3 tablespoons chopped fresh http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=214 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=214 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's widely known that houseplants not only add a pleasant ambiance to indoor rooms, but can also help clean the air. Groundbreaking research from NASA showed that many common indoors plants, such as areca palms, rubber trees, and peace lilies, can filter out indoor pollutants. With the advent of tighter houses and buildings to save energy, many of the toxic fumes in paint, carpeting, and wood finishes stay indoors to be inhaled by everyone. This off-gassing can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, asthma, nervous system disorders, and sinus congestion. One way to lesser this toxic impact on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=210 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=210 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT As the weather cools and the holidays approach, we're likely to see the typical holiday fare in grocery stores and garden centers -amaryllis, orchids, Christmas cactus, and cyclamen. Most of the seasonal plants you see are tropical in nature, or at least can't live year-round in northern zones. I'm always drawn to the cyclamen, with their beautifully marked leaves and those upside-down blooms of red, pink, white, and magenta. They look like birds in flight. As hard as I try to resist them, one usually comes home with me to brighten up the family room when the landscape outside looks pretty http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=216 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=216 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT I'm not really a plant collector-I don't look for the most unusual agave or the rarest orchid. I don't have hundreds of one type of plant in my garden, although I have more succulents and ferns than anything else. Strange combination, I know, but I like what I like! However, I do believe I'm getting bitten by a plant bug after all these years, and I started with my first purchase last week. What plant? Tillandsias! Never heard of them? You've probably seen them but didn't know what they were called. Tillandsias are bromeliads, but not all bromeliads are tillandsias. They're http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=213 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=213 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT From the the first blooms of spring until the last glorious blooms as summer turns into fall, roses charm us and woo us with their sophisticated and beautiful flowers. For all the bad press they get-much of it undeserved-they still elicit oohs and ahs from gardeners and nongardeners alike. There are many roses today that can be grown with ease, with few of the problems usually associated with roses, such as black spot or mildew. Even the more temperamental ones can often be grown with only a little more attention, by giving them good air circulation and using good maintenance practices http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=215 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=215 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT While most gardeners have planted their spring-flowering bulbs outdoors, there's still an opportunity to plant more bulbs for indoor enjoyment. Forcing crocuses, daffodils, tulips, and other spring-flowering bulbs indoors is a fun way to jumpstart your spring-flowering season and bring some color and brightness to the drab winter days. Forcing bulbs is easy, but you'll need to start now. Most bulbs, except 'Paperwhite' narcissus and prechilled bulbs bought from garden centers, need to undergo a chilling period before they will bloom: they need twelve to sixteen weeks with temperatures between 32 and 50 degrees F. Outdoors this happens naturally with planted http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=203 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=203 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you've been paying attention to garden trends this year, you'll know that vertical gardening is all the rage. And it's not just about being trendy-it's about using all the space you have in your garden to its fullest advantage. Vertical gardening is employing different means to grow plants "up"; this is particularly smart when you have a small area and don't have as much horizontal space, but it's also a great way to add "layers" to a large area or disguise an unattractive fence. One way to garden vertically is to add vines to your garden: they'll grow up, over, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=212 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=212 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Halloween is behind us, but Thanksgiving looms large and so do the pumpkins. Can you imagine Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie? Everywhere you look, you see the orange orbs-on front porches, in the groceries, and some are still sitting in the pumpkin patch. But not all were carved as jack-o-lanterns. Not all will end up on your plate in a few weeks. Some are grown just for the sheer joy and competition of growing them. I'm talking about the quest for the largest pumpkin ever grown. This is serious business among those who grow the giants. There are seeds called 'Dill's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=209 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=209 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the best ways to get kids interested in eating more fresh fruits and vegetables is to show them how great they taste. If you had a school garden this year, you know that kids are more likely to try a fresh bean or carrot if they were involved in growing it. But how do you get kids to eat vegetables in winter in the school cafeteria, when fresh produce isn't growing outdoors? Some schools are buying vegetables from local farmers as part of their regular cafeteria offerings. But often kids may be unfamiliar with some of these vegetables http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=202 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=202 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT I looked at this plant for about a year before I decided to take the plunge and try it. I have a favorite nursery in town that has an awesome greenhouse, and Milton, the greenhouse manager, has been encouraging me for the longest time to purchase one of these incredibly exotic houseplants. "They're really easy," he says, "Trust me." Well, truth be told, I sometimes have trust issues, especially with new plants. I'm not embarrassed to admit it. But I trust Milton, so I stepped off the ledge. Seriously, though, who could blame me? This plant is so exotic, so http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=208 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=208 Sat, 06 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's great that we can grow tropical plants outside in the summer and bring many of them inside for the winter. What's not so great is that when they come in, they sometimes bring hitchhikers along in the form of insects, and not the beneficial kind. Before you bring container plants back inside for the winter, you should take the time to spray them with insecticidal soap or another organic product such as Neem oil. Both can usually be found at any garden center. What to Look For Spider Mites: These tiny creatures will be found at growth points, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=207 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=207 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Ah! I love this time of year. Evenings cool enough to sleep with the windows open, a hint of crispness in the air, and a whole slew of fresh winter plants at the nursery! Plus, I get to pull out the boots I bought at the end of the season last year, but I digress. One of the plants I can't wait to get my hands on every November is flowering cabbage or kale. Nope, not the kind you eat, but the kind you drool over because it's so incredibly textural and colorful in the winter border. Never tried it, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=206 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=206 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now that bulb-planting season is well underway, the talk around the water cooler centers on which bulbs are being planted. Invariably, there are tulips and daffodils involved. Crocuses are mentioned, as are a few that are more obscure, such as fritillaries and triteleia. Once the menu has been looked at, the next question is usually, "Do your bulbs always come up in the spring?" or "How do you plant them?" There are a few basic guidelines to follow, of course, but for the most part, bulb planting is easy and most bulbs are reliable. The general rule of thumb http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=205 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=205 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Cool fall weather has slowed the growth or even killed many plants in the garden, but that's not always a bad thing. Some plants need the shorter days and cooler temperatures to stimulate flowering in winter. A great example is the Christmas cactus. Christmas cacti will flower based not only on the weather and day length, but also on their genetics. There are actually three types of "Christmas" cactus that flower in winter. All look similar, but because of their genetics, they naturally flower at different times. The Thanksgiving cactus naturally flowers early in winter. The Christmas cactus flowers http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=191 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=191 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT Our feathered friends are gearing up to head to warmer climates for the winter and many of them left weeks ago. They physically can't endure the cold winters in the north, so they go south. Wish I could do the same! But there are many birds that tough it out and are able to withstand the cold weather. They rely on native shrubs and trees to provide shelter as well as those hybrid varieties in our own gardens. Finding reliable food sources can sometimes be a problem, so what we choose to grow in our own gardens and landscape http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=201 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=201 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT You know what's really frustrating to me about gardening sometimes? You can have years of success-your garden is the envy of the neighborhood. And then, bam! Out of the blue, your garden is chewed down to the nubs. Overnight. Leaving you weeping and gnashing your proverbial teeth. Well, if the culprit is grasshoppers, you'll know it pretty quickly. These beasts can't hide, and they'll likely jump in your face or on top of your head when you go out to investigate. Mystery solved. But what to do? First off, you might think, as I used to, that grasshoppers are only a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=204 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=204 Sun, 31 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I admit that I haven't paid too much attention to birds in the garden until recently. Until I started working at Rose's house. She's one of my new clients, a retired secretary who has turned her backyard into a bird haven and paradise. On my last visit to Rose's to finalize our landscape plans, she was pointing out her feathered friends to me. There were a male and female cardinal, a bossy blue jay, and a ton of little sparrows. A hummingbird feeder on her deck was regularly visited, although not the day I was there. And Rose said there were http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=195 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=195 Sat, 30 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Whether or not you live in Ohio-but especially if you do-the word buckeye holds many different meanings. Ohio is the Buckeye State, so named for the buckeye tree (Aesculus glabra), common throughout the state. The fruit of the deciduous tree is a nut that is somewhat round, shiny, and brown, with a tan-colored "eye" contained within a prickly capsule. The tree is soft­ wooded and is used for making artificial limbs and paper pulp. Football fans know a Buckeye is one who either plays for Ohio State University or is a fan of the team. Always a powerhouse in the world http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=197 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=197 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT The best way to help kids understand composting and why it works is to make a compost pile. For a compost pile to take organic materials such as newspaper, dried leaves, kitchen scraps, and old garden plants and turn it into soil-building humus, the pile must have a mix of "brown" carbon materials (dried leaves, hay, newspaper) and "green" nitrogen materials (kitchen scraps, weeds, manure) to make it cook. But before kids throw brown and green materials in a compost pile, they need to know which materials are high in carbon and which are high in nitrogen. You can't rely just http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=190 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=190 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I had a meeting with some new clients a few weeks ago, and they handed me a drawing done by another landscaper. "We don't like it, and we're hoping that you can come up with some better ideas," they said. When I questioned them further about what specifically they didn't like about the plan, they were hard-pressed to answer. Did they not like the plants? No, that was fine. How about the rockwork? No, they liked that, too. Aha! I though. It's the style of the garden they don't like. But, no, they insisted they liked that well enough, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=194 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=194 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT We spend a fair amount of time planning which plants to use in combination for planting our containers in the spring. Consideration is given to color, form, and growth habit. When we're successful at creating a stunning planter, it gives us joy all summer long. If you're like me, you hate it when fall comes and frost takes the life of those colorful annuals that have grown to be full and lush-it's such a shame to see them go. One of the plants I used last year in my flower boxes was Dorotheanthus bellidiformis 'Mezoo Trailing Red'. Succulent in nature, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=196 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=196 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Apples are a fruit that is almost synonymous with fall. Who doesn't love to go apple picking? But what can you do with all of those apples, since they don't stay fresh for a long period of time? They usually start to turn after a few days. You can easily preserve them by freezing them, allowing you to enjoy them much longer. Here's how you can preserve apples by freezing them: Cut the apples into slices. Larger apples should be cut into about 15 slices and smaller ones into about 10 slices. If you are going to use the apples uncooked, pack them in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=200 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=200 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's cleanup time in many school gardens. While the garden is winding down in many areas, there are still some educational opportunities available as students clean up the old vegetable plants, flowers, stakes, and planting materials. The first question is, where will all this material go? While much of our trash ends up in landfills, up to two-thirds of it can be composted. When you introduce the idea of composting to young students, you first need to help them understand what can and cannot be composted and the different types of materials that make up a compost pile. It's time to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=181 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=181 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Who comes up with these common plant names? Whoever chose this name, chose wisely: kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate (Polygonum orientale), an old favorite that was popular in cottage gardens of the past, is indeed the kind of effusive, sweetly romantic flowering vine that would wind its way around arbors, inviting would-be lovers to linger before being called in for supper. I used to see this vine all over the place in my old hometown in central Texas before I knew what it was. It's an annual vine, but don't let that scare you off. It's said to reseed freely enough to keep you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=192 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=192 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Just as certain perennial and annual flowers can withstand a light frost, there are many herbs that can do the same. In fact, the cooler weather often makes them more pungent. It's almost as if they're telling you that their favorite time of year is autumn, too. Herb growers know that the ideal time to harvest the leaves of herbs is in the morning, before the heat of day zaps the plant of some of its moisture. The oils that give them their flavor and scent are strongest then, so it just stands to reason that when the weather turns http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=193 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=193 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now is a great time to get a lot of things done in your garden. The summer is weeks behind us, so the conditions are great for getting your space ready for spring gardening. Cooler air and a decent amount of rain are conducive to quick root growth. This means that fall is a good time to plant new trees and shrubs. Here are some things you can do now to get a head start for next spring: Clean up. Yes, I know no one likes to clean up, but you and your garden will benefit from doing it now, because many http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=199 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=199 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I'm a big vegetable fan year-round, but there's something about the coziness of autumn that makes me want to start roasting everything. Marinate, add spices, stew, and roast-the fresh simplicity of our spring and summer recipes leads into the warm richness of autumn food. Here's a delicious recipe for all those bell peppers you've grown in your garden, and it's perfect as a complement to herb-roasted or baked chicken, or herbed penne pasta drizzled with olive oil. Use your parsley from the herb garden and you've prepared a harvest side dish straight from your backyard! Add a glass of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=186 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=186 Sat, 23 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT A couple of years ago, I bought a bat house to put up on our property. We live out in the country and bats are plentiful. Once the sun sets, you can see them flying around overhead, nearly silently, in search of mosquitoes to munch on. While some people might be afraid of bats, I welcome them, which is why I bought the bat house. Did you know? One bat is capable of eating one-third of its weight in insects each night. Bats fly at night so they don't have to compete with birds for food. Bats make up about 20 percent of all http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=187 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=187 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners love the large-flowered, tropical-looking hibiscus shrubs that grow in Florida, California, Texas, and other frost-free areas. These beautiful shrubs are great landscape plants, providing color for months. However, they are only hardy in these warmer climes and gardeners in the rest of the country can only grow them as houseplants. That's okay. Hibiscus grow well in large containers and can be moved outdoors in spring and back indoors in fall. You'll still get flowers, just for not as long as in a southern location. But if you live in a colder climate and crave hibiscus flowers in the garden, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=180 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=180 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I confess to formerly being afraid of bromeliads. I wonder if there's a psychiatric term for it-but it's okay, I'm over it now. It's just that they are so exotic and delicate looking that they have to be high maintenance, right? Wrong. This is where people take a left turn with bromeliads: we give them too much care because they look so special, but we end up caring them to death. So I'm going to give you the scoop on bromeliads, and you're going to become a bromeliad rock star. Ready? Bromeliads are very adaptable tropical plants, perfect for growing in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=185 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=185 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Autumn is many people's favorite season for several reasons, including cooler temperatures, beautiful leaf color, and a general break from the usual gardening chores. But there's one fact that eventually gets mentioned in the conversations lauding fall's virtues-it precedes winter. Most of us wish that autumn lasted longer and winter was shorter. What if there were a way to make winter seem to be not quite so long? As gardeners, we are on the lookout for signs of spring toward the end of a dreary, cold winter. Just the sight of green tips poking through the ground, and sometimes even through the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=183 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=183 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT With the fall being in full stride and the moisture level starting to increase, slugs are likely to be prevalent in your garden. These slimy, crawly, nasty creatures can certainly wreak some havoc in your garden and destroy your crops. Plus, they aren't very pretty things to look at. Let's talk about about how to get rid of these pests without using any toxic materials or spray. Before we do that, I want to give a little bit of background on these crawlers. Did you know that slugs are hermaphrodites? Yup. They have both male and female reproductive systems. So they can reproduce http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=198 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=198 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Kids love special play spaces in the garden that expand their imagination. All summer long, kids can be playing in sunflower houses, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches, making up games and indirectly learning about gardening. While making special places for kids in the garden is a great idea, fall is a reality that eventually turns that summer fun into a memory. But you can create outdoor play spaces using natural materials that will still be engaging year-round. The key is having kids involved in the design, location, and construction of the project. Then they will naturally want to be outside playing http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=171 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=171 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I've always been a casual gardener. There's something about the jumble of flowering perennials and swaying grasses that just gets me going. But strangely enough, I've been getting into elements with more of a formal feel lately: clipped shrubs, more structure, lots of evergreen, and topiary. Yes, topiary! I can hardly believe it myself, but there it is. I find the structure and the shapes of topiary to be very elegant and timeless, so I've been experimenting with it in my own garden this year. Topiary is, simply put, the art of pruning plants into shapes. The shapes can be geometric http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=184 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=184 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Collard greens are most widely known for their use in cooked Southern dishes. They are tough greens, so cooking break thems down a bit and makes them more palatable. However, since they are so dense, you can use them in another way as well. You can use collard greens to make a wrap instead of tortillas or bread. Because the leaf is so thick, the oil or dressing that you use will not cause the leaf to crumble and fall apart. This is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet and to use the collards that you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=178 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=178 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's autumn and leaves are falling at a steady rate now. We have nearly one hundred trees on our 1-acre property and some of them are estimated at around two hundred years old. That makes for a lot of leaves-more than most people know what to do with. But over the years we've put them to good use. Autumn means the smell of burning leaves to some people, and while I enjoy that particular fragrance myself, I know that burning those leaves releases harmful pollutants into the air. It can also create a fire hazard at a time of year when http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=182 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=182 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Those of us who enjoy container plantings are used to using lots of flowers. We even know the trick of using a focal plant in the middle, with some fill plants for color and others to spill over the edge. Hey, if we're getting really crazy, we'll plan our potted gardens out in advance and add some evergreens so we don't have to replace everything each season. But I bet you haven't tried grasses! That's right, ornamental grasses are the hip new addition to the potted plant family, and if you want to be one of the cool kids, it's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=175 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=175 Sat, 16 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Though I've heard about school gardens for some time now and realize their popularity is growing by leaps and bounds, it wasn't until last month that I saw a genuine school garden for myself. What I'd imagined was a little different from the reality. As a parent, I tried to teach my children about the world around them. We looked at insects and flowers, and we grew vegetables that we used in preparing our meals. It takes time to do this and, with all the subjects that schools are required to teach kids, I couldn't imagine that teachers would have http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=177 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=177 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT While there are many trees and shrubs in temperate regions that have magnificent fall color, there are generally fewer perennial flower choices. Often it's easy to let Mother Nature provide the color show naturally and not get too involved in planting specific perennial flowers for fall blooming. And why not? Fields of wild aster and forests of blazing maples put on quite a show on their own. But if you're looking at your perennial flower garden and thinking that it needs some help for the end of the season, there are some choices. Certainly some of your existing perennials that flowered http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=170 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=170 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Despite my best efforts, and left to my own devices, I don't usually eat my allotment of vegetables every day. I naturally gravitate more toward fruit, even though I do enjoy squashes, broccoli, and greens. Most mornings find me making fruit-based smoothies-a healthy breakfast, but still not helping me with my veggie deficit. I think the people around me got tired of hearing me say how I "really should put some greens" into my smoothies, because last Christmas I was given a sturdy blender! No more excuses; I now had the proper equipment to move forward. If you're experiencing the same http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=174 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=174 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT When the cooler weather of fall comes around, our family's choice of foods changes right along with the season. The steamy summer temperatures don't exactly make hot and spicy dishes sound appetizing. But autumn is here and it's chili time! Of course, every family has their favorite chili recipe, but one question always comes up when discussing how to make it: beans or no beans? Though I grew up with chili containing beans, as an adult I can make it the way I like it-without beans! The issue of beans in the chili can be a source of much discussion, but I http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=176 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=176 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Fall is for planting spring-flowering bulbs. Whether it's tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses, or snowdrops, October and November is when most people across the country will be digging holes and popping these bulbs into the ground. We all love the colors and textures of spring bulbs, but often get frustrated when they don't come up or only last a few years, then peter out. This is especially true of tulips. Modern hybrid tulips come in a dizzying array of colors and bulbs shapes. From elegant peony-shaped tulips to standard Darwin tulips, it's hard not to love the variety of tulips that's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=161 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=161 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I always feel a bit badly for autumn. Spring gets so much attention with its bounty of pastel flowers and lush green grass that it's almost easy to forget the bounty of fall. Almost. Although spring has a lot going on, plants in the fall garden seems to be on fire with their unbeatable foliage and bloom. These plants often have more saturated colors-rich jewel tones and burnished earthy hues. No spring pastels for this bunch! And Mother Nature knows what she's doing, as these autumn bloomers perfectly complement the surrounding fall foliage. Take a look at these beauties and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=172 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=172 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Just one of the things we miss when winter arrives is the blooming of spring and summer's bright and colorful flowers. Even if you live in a climate that stays relatively warm throughout the winter, each bloom has its season. We can tell what month it is when we see the iris in bloom or when the black-eyed Susans sport their telltale yellow petals. Then winter comes along and our Technicolor world changes to brown, gray, and white, with a little evergreen thrown in just to remind us that life does and will go on. But there are other http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=173 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=173 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT We all know that the fall is the best time to plant trees and perennials, but if you plan to add vines to your landscape in the coming months, you need to know how to choose the right one for your setting. Not all vines are created equal-that is, they don't climb the same way. Why is this important? Well, say you have a fence or a wall you want the vines to cover and you don't plan on adding a trellis-if you don't plant the right kind of vine, you'll simply succeed in adding a nice flowering groundcover to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=164 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=164 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I remember saying this spring that surely we wouldn't have another hot and dry summer like we did the previous two years. But, in fact, that's just what we had here in many parts of the Midwest. Again. Luckily, we have no shortage of water here, but I'm really tired of walking around with a tail dragging behind me in the form of the garden hose. It's time to start gardening smarter, not harder. When I was a beginning gardener, I was so enthralled and enthusiastic that I wanted to grow it all. I even tried babying some plants rated a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=167 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=167 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT We all know that getting kids to eat a rainbow of different-colored vegetables is a good way to ensure they are receiving proper nutrition. While the concept is sound, how can you make it fun in a classroom or after-school program? The answer is to make it into a game. Create an "eat a rainbow" relay race to help kids identify all the different fruits and vegetables in the various colors. This would be great for young children (pre-K through grade two) that are just learning about different-colored vegetables. Here's how it works. Break the kids into teams. Hand out old seed http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=160 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=160 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Most of us have seen them. If you dig around in the dirt long enough, you will eventually encounter white grubs in your garden or lawn. They're the subterranean larvae that look strangely prehistoric and slightly menacing, but no worries-although they can harm your garden, they won't harm you. These beetle larvae are approximately 1 inch long with a translucent white body, brown head, and black "tail." They have six small legs just behind the head, and a mouth that has pinching parts. And you know the beetles that fly around and drive you nuts during the summer and fall? Grubs http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=163 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=163 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT When most people think of compost, they think of a huge pile of garbage with flies swarming around it and a horrible stench. So when I tell people that I compost in my apartment (my kitchen to be precise), they look at me as if I'm crazy. I certainly would have given myself that look a few years back before I got started composting. Fortunately for me, I started to think differently and began making compost in the kitchen of my NYC apartment. That information usually shoots down the "I don't have space" excuse that I hear from many people. Think about this-according http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=159 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=159 Wed, 06 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Peonies? Now? You forgot all about them, didn't you? They wowed you in the spring and you wanted to run right out and buy some more. Perhaps you did. It's not uncommon to find peonies for sale in the spring, and I've bought some myself-both bare-rooted and potted-with mixed results. I did it because I couldn't resist them, even though I knew that fall was the best time to plant peonies. The cooler temperatures of fall are perfect for peonies because they aren't planning on blooming anytime soon. They're actually pretty dormant come fall, and rather than spending their energy on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=166 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=166 Wed, 06 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT So many of us have small, awkward spaces in our gardens that we don't know what to do with-maybe you have a small terrace with limited horizontal space. Or perhaps you actually have a nicely sized courtyard, but the beds around the perimeter are only a foot deep. If you plant only small or medium-sized plants, the effect is a bit underwhelming, and yet most tall plants take up too much horizontal space. What's a gardener to do? I'll tell you- choose your plants wisely! Here is an assortment of tall but narrow plant options, appropriate for Zen, Mediterranean, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=162 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=162 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT While most of our attention in the garden is on harvesting crops before frost and storing them for winter, there is still some planting to be done. Most importantly, it's time to plant garlic. Garlic is an easy and rewarding vegetable to grow in a small home garden. Planted now, it grows in late fall and then again in spring to be harvested the following summer. While you can buy garlic year-round in the grocery store, freshly grown home garlic has some definite advantages. Home-grown garlic has a fresher taste and you can experiment with different varieties of hard- and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=150 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=150 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT With the summer officially over and the fall months ahead of us, you might have a surplus of herbs to harvest. What's one to do with all of these herbs? Surely you don't want to let all of them go to waste. Using as many of them as you can while they are fresh is best, but you might not be able to eat that much basil in one sitting! Fortunately, you can enjoy your herbs during the off-season if you preserve them by drying. There are many different methods for drying your herbs. Choose the one that works best for you. Air-Drying: http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=158 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=158 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Autumn is here and the brilliant colors many of us associate with the season have begun to appear in parts of the country. It's one of the best things about fall, whether you're a gardener or not. The colors appear in leaves in response to changes in light and moisture. In fall, the decrease in daylight hours signals the plants and trees to prepare for winter. The process of making chlorophyll stops and the green goes out of the leaves. Once the chlorophyll is gone, the remaining pigment produces the yellows and oranges that were there all along, covered up by http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=165 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=165 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I'm considered to be a plant collector and it's on a rare trip to the garden center that I actually have a shopping list with definite plants in mind. If I see something that catches my eye, I'll consult the plant tag and decide if it will work in my garden or not. That tag holds great sway in my purchase plans. Not all plant tags are the same, nor do they contain the same information, but a really great one will have these components: Zone: This is probably the first thing I look at when buying perennials and ornamentals. If it's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=146 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=146 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT I sang the song as a child. Maybe you did, too. Pickin' up pawpaws, puttin' 'em in her pockets, Pickin' up pawpaws, puttin' 'em in her pockets, Pickin' up pawpaws, puttin' 'em in her pockets, Way down yonder in the pawpaw patch. Maybe you've never even heard of a pawpaw (Asimina triloba). It's North America's largest native fruit and grows wild in nearly the entire eastern half of the United States. It is primarily an understory tree, because in the first years of its life, it requires shading. Once it is about three years old, it grows well in full sun in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=156 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=156 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT Fall is the perfect time to set up a compost bin. Many home gardeners know that composting old vegetable plants, weeds, grass trimmings, and leaves can benefit their garden soil, but composting also provides an opportunity to teach kids how to reduce the amount of garbage going to the landfill. Realistically, unless you have a large composting operation, the amount of compost you produce from your small vegetable garden and yard probably won't be enough to provide all the nutrients you need in your garden. While composting will certainly help your garden, an even better reason for composting is to recycle http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=149 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=149 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now that it's officially fall and we've hopefully gotten through the worst of the summer heat, it's time to give our gardens an extra dose of tender loving care as we prepare to put them to bed for the winter. Too early to think about winter when it's still relatively warm outside? Not at all! And remember, while some of this work is, well, work, and thereby not too much fun, your garden will reward you in the spring with more lush foliage as well as a bounty of blooms. So here's a handy checklist to help keep you and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=155 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=155 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the delightful aspects of traveling to a different part of the country, even if it's just the next state (the South has to start somewhere), is the difference in culinary tastes. Usually influenced by family and culture, people associate some dishes with certain areas. I live north of the Mason-Dixon Line, and as I write this I'm sitting in a hotel room in Berea, Kentucky. A restaurant downtown serves what is called spoon bread. I'd not heard of it before, but I bought a couple of packages of mix to take home and try for myself. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=153 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=153 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT As the days shorten and nights cool, tropical plants such as dahlias, cannas, and colocasia put on their last show before the cold temperatures shut them down for winter. Dahlias, in particular, will keep flowering right up to frost. Enjoy the flowers for as long as you can, then get ready to dig and store the tubers for winter. In all but Zone 8 and warmer areas, dahlias need to be dug in fall after a frost and stored in a dry, dark basement or protected location. They won't survive the winter in the ground in colder areas. However, if stored http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=140 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=140 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you've never grown ornamental grasses in your landscape, I urge you to take a chance and try them out this year. No other plant provides the kind of lyrical kind of movement in the garden that ornamental grasses do. Plus, there's a grass for every need, so you can feel confident that you can choose one that will complement your plantings to perfection. Ornamental grasses grow anywhere from a mere 6 inches tall up to a towering 12 feet, accept any light conditions from full sun to dappled shade, grow in a variety of soils (as http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=154 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=154 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT There is one simple reason why you should start to grow your own edible garden-because you are human. You might be scratching your head and wondering what I mean, but it's simple. As humans, growing food is what we have been doing for hundreds and thousands of years. It's only in the past one hundred to two hundred years that it has become uncommon to grow your own food. Some people tie the current health crisis in our country with the processed and chemically treated foods that we are eating. What better way to ensure that you and your family are getting http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=147 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=147 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT For me, nothing evokes that cozy, front-porch feeling like a red geranium in a clay pot. I grow several kinds of geraniums (Pelargonium, technically) each summer, and even though they're annuals where I live (Ohio), I don't buy them new each year. Annual geraniums are one of the easiest plants to save from summer to summer. There are three ways to do it and I've had success with all three. The most obvious is to bring them inside, potted up before frost, and place them in a sunny south window. If you don't provide them with enough sun, they'll grow leggy http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=151 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=151 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT One excuse that people often use for not starting their own garden is that they don't get enough sunlight. They only have access to shady areas. That's okay. It does not mean that you can't start a garden. It just means that there is a smaller selection of plants that you can grow, given your situation. Plants such as tomatoes and cucumbers require lots of sunlight, but that doesn't mean that you can't experiment with planting them in your shady areas. It's worth the effort. The general rule of thumb is that leafy vegetables are the ones that perform the best in the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=148 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=148 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Gardeners with spaces ranging from tiny balconies to large estates are all ecstatic about potted plants. Why? Because they offer a chance to personalize spaces with plantings that are creative, flexible, and movable. But what is available to the gardener who wants to go beyond the typical ceramic or terracotta pot? A lot! As long as you pay attention to potted-garden basics such as drainage and watering, potting options are nearly unlimited. Here are some creative suggestions to try if you're up to the challenge: Musical Instruments: Empty drums are fantastic to use, as well as old brass instruments such http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=143 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=143 Sat, 25 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you're fortunate enough to have the space for a large pond, here's a plant you'll want to try. A member of the Nymphaeaceae family, Victoria is the giant of the lily pads, so you truly do need to have a fairly large pond to house this one. I'll admit, when I first laid eyes on this lily pad, I thought it was fake. It looked like a gorgeous outdoor piece of art-it was that surreal. But it's real, and if you want to try this giant, here's what you need to know. The genus Victoriais named after Queen Victoria http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=157 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=157 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT It may be fall and kids are back at school, but there's certainly plenty of time to have one last garden picnic before you wrap up the garden for the season. Garden picnics are a fun way to get your kids involved in the garden and to learn about eating fresh, nutritious produce in a creative way. September is a good time to have a garden picnic because of the abundance of vegetables, fruits, and herbs still being produced. Here are some tips to keep in mind when organizing your picnic. Involve your kids from the beginning stages of planning the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=139 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=139 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Most of us who garden have resigned ourselves to the reality of weeding. I don't know many people who really enjoy this essential garden task, but few would argue that it needs to be done. So aside from pulling weeds out one by one as they pop up, is there anything a gardener can do to cut down on their proliferation? In a word: yes! Weed barrier or weed block fabric can prevent weeds from germinating in the first place. If you're starting a new landscape bed, there are steps to follow when installing this material to ensure the best http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=142 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=142 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Even though it is officially fall, it's not too late to get your fall vegetable plantings done. My favorite edibles to grow during this time of year are lettuces and greens. I especially love them because even though I am growing in containers in a small space, they are great producers. They also do really well in shaded areas if that's all the space that you have. You can grow all kinds of greens in the fall in your garden. Experiment with different kinds of lettuces. Plant a variety of leaf lettuces, some buttercrunch, and romaines. Within each of those families you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=137 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=137 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT As in many parts of the country, we've experienced extreme weather this summer here in Ohio. Watching the news, I know that people in some areas have had too much rain, even experiencing a total loss of their vegetable gardens due to flooding. Vegetables that have lain in contaminated water aren't safe to eat. At the other end of the weather spectrum lie those who haven't had enough rain. The end of summer here is always signaled by a look that suggests that the days of vibrant green and lushness are past. It has us looking forward to the cooler days http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=145 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=145 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the most common reasons people give for not starting their own garden is that they don't have the time. This is especially true when it comes to watering the garden. The solution is container gardening, but not just any kind of container gardening. I'm talking about a self-watering container garden. You might be asking yourself, what is a self-watering container? Self-watering containers look like traditional garden containers, but they are different in the way they function. With a self-watering container you pour the water into a reservoir instead of on top of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=118 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=118 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT While the weather is still warm, hummingbirds are enjoying the nectar from many fall-blooming shrubs and flowers. Kids are fascinated with these tiny birds for good reason. Hummingbirds flap their wings in a circular motion sixty to eighty times a minute, and they're the only bird that can fly backwards. They're like little fairies gracing your garden. While the hummingbirds will be migrating to warmer climates soon, fall is a good time of year to plant a hummingbird-attracting garden for next year. Often, shrubs and perennial flowers are on sale at garden centers at this time of year, so you can http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=132 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=132 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT There are few plants that can match the exuberance of croton (Codiaeum variegatum). This tropical is typically used as a houseplant, but if you live in a milder climate you can definitely consider it for your outdoor landscape. There's just something about those crazy colors melting into one another on the foliage that makes me happy. Here's what you need to know to grow it in your space. This tender perennial is hardy to Zone 10a (30 degrees) and grows up to 4 feet tall. Most plant tags will announce that it will take full sun to part shade-however, I've http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=141 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=141 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT I've had a love affair with the ice plant for several years now because this succulent groundcover fulfills my rather strict list of requirements for personal plant usage: low maintenance, low water usage, year-round interest, and fabulous flowers. I don't ask for much, do I? The ice plant doesn't seem to think so, because it more than meets me halfway, with a cheerful smile on its fuchsia face. The ice plant, or Delosperma cooperi, is a South African introduction that grows only about 6 inches high, but trails or spreads up to 2 feet or more. It features small, long, medium-green http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=152 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=152 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Kale is one of those vegetables that is used more as a garnish than a featured menu item. That's because most people don't know how to properly prepare the tough green. If you give it a massage, it will become more tender. Here are two kale salad recipes for the next time you harvest a big batch of the greens from your garden. The first massaged kale salad is a great base salad that can be built on in many ways. The second kale salad is built on a base of massaged kale. Marinated and Massaged Kale Salad 6 to 8 sun-dried tomatoes, soaked http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=138 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=138 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT As a gardener who has owned both cats and dogs, I know all too well the special problems our lovable pets can cause. Good planning with your pets in mind may head off a few of the irritations. It's not likely that we'll eliminate all bad behaviors, but there are ways that we can coexist without stressing each other out in the process. Let's look at our canine companions first. Dogs are very much creatures of habit. If you look at your yard, you'll likely see evidence of where they make their rounds. The grass may be thinner there http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=144 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=144 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT There are only a few times during the year that just beg you to decorate your garden-Christmas, Easter, possibly the Fourth of July. But what I love about autumn is that it provides the gardener with an entire season of cozy decorating. You know what I'm talking about-grocery stores and farmers' markets lure you with all their harvest-y offerings from pumpkins to gourds and ornamental corn. Now go to your favorite nursery and marvel at all the fall plants on display there, and you have everything you need to make sure your garden is dressed to the nines for the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=135 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=135 Sat, 18 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT During the summer, we come to expect beautiful blooms from our perennials and we enjoy them as they predictably flower through the warm days. Before that, the spring bulbs warmed our hearts as they brightened up our dreary gardens just waking up from a long winter's nap. Fall has its own usual color from mums and asters, heleniums and black-eyed Susans, but for some reason, I'm always surprised when the colchicums arise from the earth in all their splendid floral glory. Often called fall crocus, colchicums aren't a crocus at all. True fall crocus is a corm that is related http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=136 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=136 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT For those of us lucky enough to live in mild climates that allow year-round planting, winter annuals offer us a multitude of garden options. Although many of these annuals can actually be planted in early spring, they can also thrive throughout the colder months of December, January, and February as well. Here's a rundown of some colorful options for your garden, along with some easy-care tips to keep them looking their best. Pansies and Violas: Popular flowers for both bedding and container plantings, these bloomers can take quite a bit of frost and still look gorgeous. They tend to prefer part-shade http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=134 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=134 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT The fresh produce season is running amuck with droves of tomatoes, squash, beans, carrots, and potatoes being harvested from the garden. But this time of year my attention always goes to the winter months ahead and ways to keep the harvest to enjoy when the garden is no longer producing. I do plant a large fall garden every year filled with frost-tolerant crops such as carrots, beets, leeks, Brussels sprouts, and kale, but what about storing the excess harvest? Certainly, canning and freezing are good ways to put by the extra produce. But you can also store vegetables fresh in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=131 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=131 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT I read on Grist.org that "if some sort of natural disaster or terrorist attack were to shut down New York City's food supply chain, our supermarket shelves would reportedly be picked clean within three days. Other U.S. cities aren't any better prepared for such emergencies, thanks to our fuelish dependence on a globalized food system." That is a pretty scary thought, considering that most of us are dependent on that food system. But a system that requires food to travel over 1,500 miles to get to our http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=128 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=128 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Soon we'll see pumpkins appearing in the grocery stores, farmers' markets, and garden centers. Fall is their time and I, for one, am happy to see them, whether they're carved into cute jack-o'-lantern faces or simply left natural. I love to eat pumpkin, too. I like pumpkin bread, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin soup, and pumpkin pie. It's one of those vegetables that can be made into delicious desserts that are actually somewhat good for you, as far as desserts go. Pumpkin has a lot of beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. In fact, 1 cup of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=130 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=130 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Late summer is a great time in the herb garden. Many herbs are flowering, bees are enjoying the late burst of nectar, and leaves are abundant for making pestos, drying, and freezing. But those living in cold-winter areas know that in a month or so, cold weather will hit and the joy of cooking with fresh herbs will become a memory. You can grow herbs indoors under lights for winter cooking, but an easier way to enjoy the fresh taste of herbs during the cold season is to bring some plants indoors. Rosemary and parsley are two of my favorite herbs http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=121 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=121 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT We've all been frustrated to tears over garden pests that are almost impossible to get rid of-leaf-footed bugs or spotted cucumber beetles, for example. You try your best, yet these pests resist all your organic and sometimes inorganic attempts to control them. Well, here's a bug that is so relatively easy to control, it will give you a sense of instant garden gratification: the tomato hornworm. First up: identification. The hornworm is a member of the Manduca genus, and it's easy to spot because of its size. One of the largest caterpillars to be found in the garden, it can grow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=133 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=133 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's natural to think that when you see an insect in your garden, there is a problem. You may assume that any insect is likely there to eat your crops and destroy your garden. However, that is not true at all. There are some insects, called beneficial insects, that serve as predators and eat the "bad" insects. This is the natural rhythm of nature and part of the food chain. Where there is an insect eating a plant, surely there is another insect that will have no interest in the plant, but will http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=127 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=127 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Front-yard vegetable gardens have grown in popularity and one of the considerations in deciding whether or not to plant one is what to grow. There are so many vegetables to choose from, just as there are many choices for a perennial bed. Personal preference is certainly a factor, as are growing conditions. One of my friends decided to grow veggies in her front yard because it was the only sunny spot on her property. When she told me her plan, I'll admit that I was skeptical. I'd grown vegetables for years and I knew that they definitely had http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=129 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=129 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT In the eight years that I've been a landscaper, I've yet to have a client allow me to plant prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp.) in his or her garden. I can't figure it out-I love this plant! What's not to love? The awesome textures, the pads that root almost instantaneously after falling to the ground, the prehistoric-looking flowers, the drought-tolerance . . . Is my plant crush showing yet? Perhaps people have a picture in their mind of the ratty prickly pears they've seen on the side of the road growing wild, or the common prickly pears whose spines are bigger http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=124 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=124 Sat, 11 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's hard to believe that fall is just around the corner already. The heat that much of the country has experienced in recent weeks has taken its toll both on the garden and the gardener. Lack of rain in some areas has only added to the stress that many plants are experiencing now. My own garden looks, well … ratty. Only those plants that are drought tolerant are still looking somewhat attractive. Zinnias, marigolds, and cosmos keep trudging right along, providing bright color among the annuals, while blanketflowers and black-eyed Susan types do it for the perennials. Hot weather and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=126 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=126 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Kids are back in school. While academics mostly happen in classrooms, the garden can be a fun place to learn important subjects, too. Math, science, and English can all be taught using plants, soil, and wildlife to illustrate important topics. While gardens indirectly support classroom learning, here's a new garden I found that allows kids to directly practice English. It's called a word garden. The first word garden, to my knowledge, was built this summer at St. Michael's College in Colchester, Vermont. Resembling a Zen garden, it is a 60-foot-diameter circular gravel bed surrounded by a stone wall. Inside are small http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=120 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=120 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT I know, I've been there. Wandering around the nursery, see a cool new plant. Look at the plant label. Label says, "Shade to part-shade." Think, "Hmm. Maybe it would work in that corner garden under the tree. But…" You're not quite sure if you should take the risk; after all, that little corner garden gets a wee bit of sun, but just in the morning. What to do? Maybe you're like me: I'll plant things in places where I'm not all at sure they'll survive. I'll plant when I know darn well I shouldn't. I'll wait an extra day to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=122 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=122 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Ornamental grasses are huge right now, some of them literally! If I've noticed one thing about them in the last five years when I've visited garden centers, it's that I've got a lot more to choose from now than I did then. And it can be confusing! Some of them can get very tall and it's important to read the tags or talk to the folks at the garden center about their growth habits. Most grasses grow best in full sun with good drainage, and they will take up more real estate with each passing year. Giving http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=125 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=125 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Most varieties of sweet corn are on their last legs. It's been a great sweet corn season, but now you have rows of old cornstalks, leaves, tassels, and ears. Certainly you can shred up the stalks and put them in the compost pile. But a more fun and educational activity is to use the old cornstalks for engaging projects with your kids. The first task is to set your kids loose in the corn patch. Have them collect old corn ears, silks, tassels, and some leaves. Kids are great at using their imagination to create craft projects. Given these materials, a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=109 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=109 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT You know it's difficult to treat a bug infestation when you can't really tell it's a bug infestation! That's right, we're talking about scale. See, it doesn't even sound like a bug, does it? But it is, and it can be a confusing and difficult one to control. Adding to the confusion are the different types of scale, with different appearances, habits, and treatments to go along with them. So listen up, class-this is a lesson you can't afford to miss! First up is identification. There are two main types of scale: soft and armored. Soft scales will http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=119 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=119 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT In August 2010 there was an article on Grist.org titled, "The history of urban agriculture should inspire its future" by Tom Philpott. It takes a look back at the history of urban agriculture and farming and points out that the trend is not a new one, but one that is just repeating itself. Philpott declares, "...urban agriculture likely dates to the birth of cities. And its revival might just be the key to sustainable cities of the future." Until the 1970s, cities and urban areas were filled with factories. The factories started to relocate to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=117 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=117 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Canning season began some time ago and continues, with late summer produce coming in. Tomatoes seem to be the most prolific at the moment, with various squashes giving them a run for their money. I'll confess: I'm not an expert canner or preserver, by any means, but even I have managed to put up several things for eating later this winter. Grapes are ripening too and I know people think we grow them because we want to make wine, but that's not the case. Ever since I made wild grape jelly for the first time three years ago, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=123 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=123 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Have you ever noticed how difficult it is to keep your grass looking great around the perimeter of your front yard? Those areas up against the curb seem to be so much more susceptible to sunburn, water runoff, and out-of-control weeds, don't they? Well, I say, "Don't fight it!" You can still have your grass, but consider turning the spaces closest to the curb into a gorgeous, drought-tolerant garden. Here are some ideas and guidelines to get you going: Remove existing grass and weeds. Rent a sod cutter and scalp out unwanted grass, or kill off your grass by laying http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=115 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=115 Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT I know, you think you've tried them all. Zucchini bread, zucchini brownies, zucchini cake, fried zucchini, zucchini muffins, grilled zucchini, zucchini stir-fry, and zucchini à la mode. Okay, maybe not that last one, but by this time in the zucchini season, you've exhausted your list of ways in which you can use this prolific vegetable, right? Not quite. Take a look at what I've found to be a deliciously different way to use zucchini. I don't remember where I found this recipe, but I've been making it for a couple of years now. And while I don't actually care that much http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=116 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=116 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT As the calendar turns to September, your vegetable, herb, and annual flower containers might be looking a little ratty. Even with diligent watering and fertilizing, the long hot summer can take a toll on annual plants. With some plants, such as trailing annuals of verbena, petunia, and scaevola, you can cut them back by one-third and they will revive to send out new flower stems and blooms right until frost. However, with containers filled with combinations of annual flowers, vegetables, or herbs, it might be better to start over. Here are some suggestions for extending the flower color and http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=110 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=110 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT I remember a lecture on weed control during my master gardener training ten years ago-the instructor said, only partially joking, "It's only a weed if you don't want it there." Meaning, of course, that there are many plants that a lot of people would consider weeds-oxalis, for example-but others would happily garden around because, after all, the plants sport flowers. Now, I'm an equal-opportunity gardener. If you're a weed and you sprout up in my garden but you don't take over and you're kind of cute, you can stay. But if you decide to choke out my preferable groundcover or http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=114 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=114 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT When you look at Will Allen, you wouldn't think that he is a farmer. He stands at 6 feet 9 inches and weighs over 200 pounds. However, the former basketball player is in the forefront of the urban farming movement in this country. He started his Growing Power Inc in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to allow low-income families access to fresh, locally grown, chemical-free produce. "Everybody, regardless of their economic means, should have access to the same healthy, safe, affordable food that is grown naturally," Allen told Time magazine. The headquarters is about 2 acres, or the size of a small grocery store. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=83 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=83 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Ah, caladiums. Even years before I was a real gardener, those beautiful, colorful, gigantic leaves-more beautiful than a lot of flowers I know -held me under their spell. Red, white, pink, green, spotted, mottled, ruffled, and all of the above at once. And they do it all in the shade! It can be difficult to find flowers or foliage plants that provide color for shady areas and even harder to find something that does it throughout the entire growing season. But caladiums fill the bill. Florida is the state that comes to mind when I think of where caladiums grow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=112 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=112 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT Edible flowers are a good way to introduce gardening to kids. The uniqueness of eating something so beautiful holds a fascination for young children. With some help and guidance, kids can fearlessly nosh on some pansy flowers and become adventurous eaters the rest of their lives. My twenty-year-old daughter Elena is a great example. Ever since she was young, I've shown her the tastiest and safest flowers to eat. Over the years she has learned to identify a handful of tasty edible flowers and still doesn't shy away from them at a meal. It's fun for her now to introduce http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=105 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=105 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT So you say you want a flowering perennial that blooms for three seasons, is very drought tolerant, and is deer resistant? And you want the option of a small sprawling plant on up to a 4-foot-tall shrub? Oh, and you want to choose from a number of different flower colors? Well, then, hop on over to your local nursery and pick up some lantana! Lantana spp. is one of those slightly incredible plants that fit almost any requirement you can think of-and then some. Now, I admit to not having used much lantana in the past two years or so. I http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=113 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=113 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Cabbage worms, also known as cabbage loopers, are one of the biggest pests for gardeners in the southwestern United States. Some who grow their own food refuse to grow certain crops, like cabbage, because they don't want to have to battle with the cabbage worms. Generally they are about ½ to 1 inch long and green. You can find them on the underside of plant leaves and might notice huge chunks of your plant leaves missing. That usually means that you have cabbage worms, so be sure to check the underside of your plants regularly. Another sign of cabbage worms is their http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=82 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=82 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT I've always been fascinated by the different words people give to the same objects, depending on their locale. For instance, where I live, here in Ohio, we call that thing from which people drink water a drinking fountain. In Wisconsin, you might hear it called a bubbler. Is it a bag or a sack? A spigot or a faucet? And then there's the whole pop versus soda controversy. (It's pop for me, by the way.) There is no right or wrong to any of it; it's what makes us so diverse and interesting. I love http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=111 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=111 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Is there a plant that you try to grow every couple of years, just to remind yourself why you don't use it? Or a plant that all the reading material you can find says is "easy to grow" and "carefree" but everyone you know kills it? I think string of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) fits these scenarios-until you figure out its requirements, it can be a major source of succulent frustration. So does it merit its fussy reputation, or is it the perennially misunderstood charmer? I've always, and I mean always, killed this plant, and killed it pronto. I had http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=108 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=108 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT As the summer comes to a close, there are plenty of flowers still blooming in our gardens, but there are many that are wrapping it up for the year. We try to keep them going for as long as we can by deadheading, but even those reach their blooming limit. The shortening days and cooling temperatures send signals to them that they'd better be making seeds if they want to produce more plants. This is a great trait for gardeners that want more of those plants and a not-so-welcome one for those that don't. If you want more http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=103 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=103 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT If there's one thing I've learned about home gardeners, it's that they love home remedies for pests. I must admit that I have a fascination with home remedies, too. Maybe it's my frugality, but there's something appealing about opening your kitchen cupboard and using a household item to control a pest or disease. While there are many home remedies out there, such as spraying soapy water to control aphids or using hot pepper to deter deer, not all household pest control measures work equally well. I always like to test the spray out on a few leaves before spraying the whole http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=104 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=104 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT I can't tell you how many times I have talked with clients about turning their landscape into a xeriscape, only to have them respond, "But I don't like that desert look!" Somehow, xeriscaping has become synonymous in our minds with sand, prickly pear cactus, and austere environments, when all it really means is using gardening practices to conserve water. If you like that "desert" look, xeriscaping has you covered, but what if you prefer the look of an English cottage garden or the feel of a lush tropical landscape? Are you destined to high water bills and higher maintenance? http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=107 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=107 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT There really isn't much like picking a nice ripe tomato off from your garden and eating it. If you can hold off just a few minutes, then you might enjoy your homegrown tomatoes in one of these recipes that require no cooking. Spicy Sunflower and Tomato Dressing ½ cup sunflower seeds, soaked for 2 to 3 hours 1 large tomato Handful of onion pieces 1 clove garlic Hot pepper to desired taste Machine use: Food processor Add all the ingredients to the food processor and blend until smooth. Blend until the desired consistency is reached, adding water http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=81 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=81 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT You know how people sometimes say, "If you don't bother bees, they won't bother you"? I try to live by that, especially since I'm allergic to bee stings. But no one really sets out to bother bees; it's generally an accident, and one that normally doesn't have a good outcome for you or the bee. There are the usual hangouts where we're cautious, such as flowers where bees gather nectar and pollen. We don't walk barefoot in the yard when the clover is in bloom. But once in a while, they surprise us. I was talking with a friend the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=102 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=102 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT My daughter has grown up around gardens her whole life. But as in many families, the kids tend to go their own way in terms of hobbies and interests. Even though I encouraged and cajoled her to help in the garden when she was younger, the only activity she really connected with, and still helps me do, is harvesting potatoes. When you think about it, for a kid, harvesting potatoes is like a giant treasure hunt. There's something large and mysterious underground and you have to find it! If you're gardening with young kids or just introducing the idea of gardening http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=94 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=94 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you've been gardening for a while, you know how important mulch is. Mulch helps keeps soil moisture constant, holds down weeds, and provides a wonderful finishing touch for the garden. There's nothing I love better as a landscaper than to see that layer of mulch being spread, setting the plants off to perfection. But there can be some confusion about the use of mulch: What kind should you use? How thickly do you apply it? How often do you need to refresh it? Let's go over the basics. Mulch Types: This can be the most confusing aspect of mulching for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=106 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=106 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT From an econonmic standpoint, I think that herbs are one of the smartest things you can grow. How many times does a recipe call for a sprig of parlsey or a teaspoon of fresh dill? There would be nothing wrong with that if you could buy herbs by the sprig or teaspooon, but you can't. When you go to the grocery store, you have to buy a bushel of it for $2 to $3 just to get that small sprig. The rest usually ends up being tossed (hopefully into your compost) after sitting and rotting in your fridge for a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=80 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=80 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT There are Asiatic lilies, oriental lilies, water lilies, surprise lilies, orienpet lilies, trumpet lilies, trout lilies, and daylilies. Can you stand yet another kind of lily? Some are true lilies and some are not. I pretty much love them all, but my favorite is one that isn't really a lily. In fact, it looks more like an orchid, which may be part of its charm for me. Members of the Tricyrtis genus go by the unattractive common name of toad lily, but this plant is of the best things happening in my late summer and fall garden. And these http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=101 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=101 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT About six months ago, my older son completed his Eagle Scout project at our local food bank and because it was a gardening project, I, of course, helped out. He guided a dozen or so other scouts and adults in building compost bins, installing a rainwater collection system, and creating two raised garden beds. I had previously done these types of projects myself with one exception: my son's raised beds were designed to be used for square foot gardening. And, of course, this was the very project my son wanted me to supervise. So I asked some questions and got http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=97 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=97 Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Summer is moving right along, coming to a close, and the garden is still pouring forth its bounty. We've canned the tomatoes, frozen the sweet corn, pickled the beets and cucumbers, harvested the onions and garlic, and dug the potatoes, and we're still picking the green beans. The carrots are starting to be a nice size for digging as well. Doesn't that sound like a good recipe for vegetable soup? It's great that we can eat from the garden both now and later, with canning and freezing available to us. What can be better than to make a nutritious, tasty meal http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=100 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=100 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Making pesto from our basil plants is an annual summer ritual. Not only do I love making and eating pesto fresh from the garden, but freezing it for winter is a great way to bring those flavors back in the cold of winter. While I make batches of pesto from a variety of unusual greens in my garden such as parsley, arugula, spinach, and even kale, basil is still king. Living in a cold climate, I've learned a few tricks for getting the most from my basil plants. When harvesting basil, it's best to remove individual branches on the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=93 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=93 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT I have a strict rule at my garden party: the guest plants that reside there can't just be a pretty face or just be decked out in pretty clothes. If they're fussy or complain too much, their invitation is swiftly revoked. If you have a similar rule, you should considering extending an invitation to the purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)-its strong color palette combined with a long bloom time and general reliability make it a favorite plant guest at many garden parties across the country. This popular flowering perennial grows up to 2½ feet tall and has a slow clumping pattern. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=96 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=96 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Goldenrod gets a bad rap. As we walked down the country road on which we live the other night, my husband, who is plagued with a plethora of allergies, remarked, "The goldenrod is blooming. That must be why I'm sneezing." Before I became a gardener and grew it in my own garden, I might have agreed with him. I've since learned that while goldenrod (Solidago sp.) commonly gets blamed for itchy eyes and runny noses, it's usually other plants that are in bloom at the same time that are the cause of most allergic reactions. Ragweed blooms when http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=99 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=99 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) are some of the most versatile, valuable plants you can use in your garden. These incredible plants take any kind of beating you can dream up-good or poor soil, full sun to some shade, lots of water to drought conditions-and they keep producing for you, year after year. But have you noticed that one sago produces something a bit different from its neighboring sago? Ah! You, my friend, have both a male and a female sago palm. In late spring, males produce a long golden cone that can reach 2 feet, while their female counterparts produce a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=59 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=59 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT There's nothing brighter, cheerier, and more fun than a sunflower. Maybe that's why kids are so drawn to them. The yellow heads seem to float above the garden almost miraculously perched on the tall stalk. With the advent of newer varieties, you can grow sunflowers that range from 18 inches to 12 feet tall and ones that produce multiple heads per stalk. And the flower colors aren't restricted to yellow any longer. They come in colors ranging from white to burgundy. While adults may love the beauty of sunflowers, kids just want to eat them. The best varieties for saving sunflower http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=90 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=90 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you grow asparagus, broad beans, eggplants, potatoes, certain fruit trees, tomatoes, peas, squash, corn, cucumbers, potatoes, fruits, and melons, you should probably read up on the spotted cucumber beetle. (Actually, my first sentence could have been shorter if I had begun this blog by simply saying, "If you grow anything but rutabagas, then you should probably read up on the spotted cucumber beetle.") This pest is a far-reaching and very damaging insect for most vegetable gardeners, so let's prepare for battle and protect our veggies! These bugs are about ¼ inch long and have yellow-green bodies with black dots on http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=95 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=95 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Aphids are one of the most common garden insects. There are over four thousand different species of aphids known in the United States and you are pretty much sure to encounter one of them at some point. These tiny little plant-sucking insects can be hard to spot, but the damage will be noticeable. You'll want to check the underside of your plant leaves for them. Some telltale signs of aphids are small holes in the leaves of your plants because aphids suck the juice (and life) out of them. Aphids are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=78 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=78 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT What can be written about zucchini that hasn't been written before? Well, probably nothing, but let me tell you about my zucchini. (Sounds a bit like someone talking about their grandchildren, doesn't it?) In the past, I've grown zucchini and had more squash than any two people with two hungry kids could ever possibly want. You know the joke about not leaving your windows down in July and August when parking your car, don't you? You're likely to return to your car and find it overflowing with zucchini that people wanted to get rid of. Zucchini rivals rabbits when it http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=98 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=98 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT There has been a real surge in school gardens in recent years, and with good reason. If you have a school-aged child and enjoy gardening, you know what a wonderfully interactive environment gardens provide for children. The practical skills of gardening alone are worth cultivating, but the life lessons are even more precious. So if you or your child's school is interested in creating a garden and don't quite know where to start, a butterfly garden can be the perfect solution. Butterfly gardening provides a unique educational opportunity for school-aged children to observe the complete cycle of life http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=53 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=53 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT You don't have to grow up on a farm to learn to love gardening as a kid. In my mom's hometown, a children's garden has plenty to pique kids' interest in learning about growing flowers and their own food. There is an ABC garden that features plants whose names begin with each letter of the alphabet. B is for broccoli, L is for lily, and so on. This can be done at home, too, on a smaller scale. How fun would it be to grow a personalized garden with plants whose names begin with the letters in your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=89 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=89 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT When my now-sixteen-year-old son was in first grade, his elementary school had a wonderful buddy system for special needs students. Many of the higher-functioning children were paired with students from my son's class while they went about their day, sharing activities such as show-and-tell, art, and music as well as learning basic skills together like counting and the ABC's. Our particular school didn't have a garden, and while I can think of the possibilities that a school garden could offer children of all abilities, I can only imagine the profound experience it could provide special needs students. If your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=64 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=64 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Although summer is in full swing, soon the weather will turn cooler and fall crops will start to shine. One of the favorite fall vegetables for kids is the pumpkin. Not only does the pumpkin symbolize trick-or-treating and Halloween, but decorating pumpkins is a great way to include your child in the celebration of the harvest. While most people go to a farm stand and buy a pumpkin to decorate, you can also grow your own pumpkin patch and let your kids personalize their fruit of choice. An engaging way to get kids involved in the pumpkin patch is to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=91 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=91 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT It seems like the lastest trend across the country is urban farming; from New York City to Los Angeles, urban farms are popping up everywhere. Here's a look at some of the most well-known urban farms. BKFarmYards: Located in Brooklyn, BK FarmYards is run by Stacey Murphy. It connects people with backyards and space that they aren't utilizing with farmers that can work the land. The food is split among the farmers, the owners of the land, and the community. Eagle Street Rooftop Farm: Another Brooklyn-based urban farm is located in Greenpoint on a 6,000-square-foot rooftop. The food grown is sold to http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=77 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=77 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT August is a time in the garden when many things have started to wind down in both the vegetable garden and the perennial garden. If you compost, the peas have already been cleaned out. The strawberry beds (unless they're everbearing) have finished producing and can be trimmed back. The dying potato and onion foliage can be tossed into the compost bin. Many perennials have finished their first or second flush of blooms and can do with a cutting back in preparation for fall, when they will experience fresh new growth in response to the cooler temperatures. Unless the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=85 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=85 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT You may be like me in that you've been afraid to experiment too much with roses-after all, they have somewhat of a bad rap for being fussy, fragile members of our garden party. But I'm here to spread the word about a new breed of rose that will knock your socks off! And you can trust my word on this-I am about as unfussy as gardeners come. If a plant requires too much attention from me and doesn't deliver the goods, it will eventually wind up in my compost pile and won't find its way into my garden again. The http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=65 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=65 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT When people ask me what they should grow when they are starting to grow their own food, my answer is usually always lettuce or some type of green. My reasons for this are simple. The first reason is that if you are transplanting lettuce, it will mature and be ready for harvest in a few weeks, so it's instant gratification. You can harvest the baby leaves for your meal and watch them grow back in a few weeks for another round. If you are growing in a small space, you are likely to be http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=74 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=74 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT We are in the midst of salad days and the gardens are producing almost faster than we can harvest their fruit. Depending on where you live, the heat and rain have coupled to cause an abundance of growth and edible vegetables. Take cucumbers, for instance. I tried something different this year when it came to planting my cucumbers. Cucumbers aren't a vegetable that I've had great luck with in the past, so when my mother handed down her EarthBox to me, I thought I'd try growing the cucumbers in that. The EarthBox is basically a "water from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=84 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=84 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT I was at one of my favorite local nurseries the other day when Tom, a veteran staff member, asked me if I wanted to see the larvae of the Eastern black swallowtail, which had been happily munching on the supply of rue, parsley, and fennel. One of the reasons this nursery is a favorite of mine is that its staff is not only knowledgeable, but committed to organic and eco-friendly methods. The staff members allow some of their herb crop to be eaten by this caterpillar because they understand the benefits. And unless your livelihood comes only from growing parsley, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=66 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=66 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT There are plants that like it dry and plants that like it wet. They grow in the ground or they grow in the water. But some are happy to grow and bloom in both locations. Maybe some are your favorites, but you didn't know how versatile they were! When I was growing up, my mom was the gardener in the family, but every year my dad planted a circular bed of beautiful red cannas. They were glorious in full bloom! To this day, I can't look at cannas without thinking of my dad. Last summer, we were visiting Cantigny Gardens http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=76 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=76 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT When you were a kid, catching a ladybug used to be a sign of good luck. You'd catch her, then let her crawl around your hands while you attempted to count the black dots to see how old she was. You will now be rewarded with the luck bestowed by catching ladybugs: when you introduce them into your garden, these insects will help keep your plants healthy and pest free. In fact, ladybugs are one of the most widley used beneficial insects in home and commercial gardens. One of their favorite things to munch on are aphids; this preference can help save http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=79 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=79 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT It seems like just yesterday we were planting seeds, with the hope of later days when we would harvest what we'd sown, and now that's just what we're doing. Baskets full of green beans, arms full of ears of sweet corn, and hands clutching bunches of beets. Is there a better time in the garden than this? One of the things I enjoy growing in my garden is garlic. I choose to grow the hardneck type for two reasons. First, and most obviously, it provides wonderful cloves of fresh garlic for use in cooking. But it's also a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=73 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=73 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT When you take the time to dig out grass, pound in edging, add soil, and arrange plants to show off their shapes and textures, do you think you'd forget to mulch? Not on your life! Experienced gardeners know the merits of a good layer of mulch: it holds in soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and adds that last finishing touch that shows off your plants to perfection. So why do we forget to "mulch" our potted plants? Think about it: Potted plants can get weeds. They dry out faster than their in-ground counterparts. And they are often the focus of decks, patios, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=86 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=86 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Imagine your horror at strolling out to your garden one morning to witness your squash vines suddenly wilted, and no amount of water will perk them up. What's up? Yesterday they were perfectly healthy! Unfortunately, you probably have squash vine borers, and if they've gotten to your squash plants enough to make them wilt, your options are limited. The good news is that once you've finished reading this post, you'll be better armed to prevent them in the first place. Here's the circle of life with this pest: the larvae overwinter in cocoons, and when the 1-inch black moths with red http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=87 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=87 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT You have to wonder about a cactus that has the common name of "mother-in-law's cushion." I'm not sure what anyone's mother-in-law ever did to deserve sitting on hundreds of sharp spines, but I'm thinking that's another post. What I do know is that golden barrel cactus, or Echinocactus grusonii, is one of my favorite cacti varieties, mostly because of its shape and the many uses it has in the contemporary landscape. This gorgeous cactus is a spine-lined globe of a plant. Found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, it's hardy to 20 degrees. Although typically smaller, it can actually grow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=88 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=88 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT I was reminded this week of how difficult it can be for new gardeners to know if, when, and how to prune their plants. I mean, one false move could scar it for life, right? Fortunately, most shrubs and perennials are much more forgiving than you think, and the problem is usually not enough cutting, rather than too much. My reminder was Coprosma repens 'Evening Glow.' On a job this week, I encountered two of them-they had shot up like startled hares and had woody stems and small leaves. No lush, shiny foliage http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=75 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=75 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's the old curly hair versus straight hair thing-we want what we don't have. The gardening version of this is known as "zone envy." I live in Zone 5, but there are a number of plants I'd love to grow in my garden that are only hardy to Zone 6 or higher. And you can bet there are gardeners in Zone 4 who wish they could grow some of the things I do. Such is life. But what if you really could grow a plant and have it winter over successfully in your garden, even though it's http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=71 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=71 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's that time of year. The bees are a-buzzin', the butterfly is on the wing, and the garden phlox is turning gray. Phlox isn't supposed to turn gray, but when the weather turns hot and humid and gardens are lush with growth, you may see a whitish gray powder form on the leaves of some plants. Like most mildews, powdery mildew affects plants during times of high heat and humidity. The fungus is present everywhere and most healthy plants are resistant to it, but there are several that are especially susceptible to attack. Common varieties that have been http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=41 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=41 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT Many of us who enjoy container gardening have probably heard of a general rule of thumb when composing a planting: use thrillers, fillers, and spillers. The thrillers are those plants that take center stage and are often more upright in form, the fillers are the usually flowering compact plants at the base of the thrillers, and the spillers are those that fall out and trail over the edge of the container, softening the entire arrangement. I have a secret obsession with these trailing plants; I'm always looking for the varieties with the fullest and longest trailers-some have flowers, some http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=67 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=67 Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT By now, we've harvested several crops in the home garden and we continue to do so as they keep producing. Green beans will keep producing beans if you keep picking them until late into summer. But not all vegetables are indeterminate like green beans. Once they produce their crop, they're done. Here in Ohio, in Zone 5, we're pulling onions and beets, and the sweet corn is at the height of its glorious, tasty goodness. Once the onions and beets are out of the ground and nothing remains of the corn but the stalks, we can make http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=58 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=58 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT So you've got a garden and you've got kids, and you'd like to get the two intermingling a bit more. Great idea! Kids that grow up in gardens have a better understanding of the world around them and develop an ability to care for and cultivate their surroundings. But before you decide on a project or create a list of plants to add with your child, take a few moments to consider what your child is capable of doing at his or her particular age. Having a thorough understanding of where your child is developmentally will help you both enjoy http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=61 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=61 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Though kids are naturally curious and generally love helping out in gardens, especially ones that they've created, it still doesn't hurt to try and make it as interesting and fun as possible. Come to think of it, we adults want it that way, too. One of the reasons gardens are planted at schools is to give kids the personal experience of growing their own food. But gardens can also be useful in showing them firsthand the principles they've learned in science class. Take the process of the uptake of water by plants, for example. We know that nearly all http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=57 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=57 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT We've all seen potted plants that elicit an immediate gasp or an audible "Wow!" And we've also seen potted plants that we barely notice before we keep on going. Worse yet are the ones that make us grimace and wonder, "What were they thinking?" So what makes the difference? Choosing the right pot for the plant makes the difference between a stunning creation and one that is barely noticed. Here are some design considerations to get you going: Contrast: You can achieve contrast in several ways. Contrast the pot with the color of the plant, the texture of the plant, or http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=62 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=62 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Though I grew up in a rural community and still live just three miles from my hometown, and despite the fact that my mom is a gourmet cook and always grew a garden, I don't enjoy cooking. It's not that I can't do it, because I can. I can follow a recipe and I get my fair share of compliments on my culinary creations, but if it takes too long or makes too big of a mess, I'm just not interested. And that, my friends is why I love red beets. Specifically, pickled beets. If you haven't http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=56 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=56 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Container planting is wildly popular these days-it's perfect for people with small spaces, but even those with larger landscapes find container planting a great addition to their in-ground garden. We all know that good drainage is paramount in container gardening, but is there such a thing as too much drainage? Yes! You know those gorgeous open-work metal hanging baskets we all love? They're typically lined with coco mats that allow water to drain freely for good plant health. However, I've noticed that, depending on the age and thickness of the coco liner, water can run right through these baskets, from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=60 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=60 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Picture this: you're admiring your beautiful vegetable garden that you've been tending for months, and anxiously awaiting your first harvest. Fresh broccoli, vine-ripened tomatoes, perfect squashes . . . Yikes! What's that on your broccoli leaves? There are little holes all over, like on Swiss cheese. If you notice these holes on your cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, chances are good that you are the host of a garden visitor called the cabbage worm. Let's ID it first, then move on to treatment, because if you've got this pest in your garden, you'll need to act quickly-the cabbage worm can http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=63 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=63 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT It took me fifty years to make my first jelly. But it took me almost that long to come to gardening! If I'd known it was so much fun, I would have been digging in the dirt way before 2005. I've been making up for lost time and I keep hoping that dirt under the fingernails becomes a fashion statement. The first year I made jelly, it was an accident. My husband and I were walking along the creek that runs behind our house and I noticed some clusters of berries hanging from vines strung from tree to tree. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=51 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=51 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Well, snails are mollusks actually, but if your intention is to avoid killing creatures or using poisons in your garden, your resolve can be sorely tested when the first warm days of spring bring the ravenous hordes. The temptation to destroy in defense of our gardens can be strong. But before you reach for the snail bait, please consider some peaceful alternatives. Barriers: They can't eat what they can't reach. Some "organic" barriers such as diatomaceous earth are still insecticides-they kill by cutting and/or dehydrating. Snails will always take the smoothest route, so dry or gritty substances like gravel can slow http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=52 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=52 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT I like to call these days of midsummer "the salad days." The reason is probably obvious, although the best time to grow salad greens is during the cooler days of spring. Lettuce and spinach do much better then and they have a better flavor, too. Vegetables like those tend to get bitter when they're maturing in the hot weather, if they even manage to mature before they bolt (set seed). But there are other fruits and veggies that are doing just fine, thank you very much. I can almost see the melons grow while I'm standing over them, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=50 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=50 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Summer arrived weeks ago and we're feeling its full effects in the garden now. The complaints du jour are that the weather is too hot and we're not receiving enough rain, yet the weeds are finding no problem staying mean and green. Plants are just beginning to look a little stressed from the heat unless they're made to take it and are drought tolerant. Every season has its challenges, doesn't it? Here are some tips for handling some of summer's challenges: Watering your garden. Even if you've vowed to let only the strong survive and not do any supplemental http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=49 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=49 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT As a garden designer I have developed a favorite palette of plants over the years: reliable friends that demand little, thrive for years, and play well together. Within that palette are an almost infinite number of of combinations. The combo du jour is a great example of mixing different forms and textures within a limited color range, in this case soft shades of gold and green. Please meet the players: Pittosporum 'Cream de Mint' (Zone 8): Probably my favorite little evergreen shrub, 'Cream de Mint' is a dwarf variegated Pittosporum that stays a tidy 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=48 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=48 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Green Cloud sage, or Leucophyllum frutescens, is one of those plants that can literally make people pull their cars over to the side of the road when it's loaded with flowers-it's that showy. The list of this plant's attributes is long, so get comfortable and pull up a chair. Although it's classified as a compact sage, it can actually grow up to 6 feet tall and is hardy to Zone 9. Native to both Texas and Mexico, this evergreen shrub is tolerant of a wide variety of soils from limestone to sand and clay, as long as they are well drained http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=54 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=54 Sat, 17 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Actually, dill never really was just for dips. Some clever person figured out that it added flavor to sour cream and a really good chip dip was born. But way before that, dill served a higher purpose. While we humans have lots of yummy things to eat, black swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes) caterpillars only eat a few plants. Their favorites are dill, parsley, fennel, carrots, and rue. Do you see a pattern? The foliage on these plants is fernlike or lacy. But in my garden, they clearly prefer chowing down on the dill. Dill is easy to grow from http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=44 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=44 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I first started gardening, I was young and broke and thought I'd save a little money by using garden soil in my potted plants. That was one of the first of many gardening mistakes I've made over the years. Soil, whether it's in the ground or in a pot, is the basic building block of any successful garden, but all soils are not created equal. If you want to create a good potted garden, start with good potting soil. First, don't use regular garden soil-it's much too heavy and dense for typical potted plants. When it's put into pots, planted, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=55 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=55 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now here's a strange one. Last summer, I was watering some annuals in the butterfly garden-Asclepias (milkweed) to be exact-and I noticed some orange stringy stuff vining its way around the base of some of the plants. I got down a little closer to inspect things, and though I could see what was going on a little bit better, I was no closer to knowing just what it was. The orange tendrils were winding their way around the stems and leaves of each plant and they looked like they were strangling the plants. I tried to untangle them http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=42 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=42 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT It came as quite a surprise to me the day I found out that the red geraniums in the terra cotta pots that I've loved my whole life were not true geraniums. If they weren't geraniums, what were they? Those annuals are actually Pelargoniums, and true geraniums are another thing altogether-they are even perennials! Commonly known as cranesbill geraniums, due to their seedpods' resemblance to a crane's bill, these plants are great for the beginning gardener because of their hardiness (Zones 4-8, generally) and ease of care. They're deer resistant, grow well in full sun to full shade, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=40 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=40 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT I've read that the dawn redwood tree looks a bit like Charlie Brown's Christmas tree until it grows up a little. Having two of our own in our yard, I can say this is a pretty good description. The branches are impressionable when they're young and even the prevailing winds have their way with the shaping of these ancient trees. But this just adds to their character and conversational appeal. I get asked about mine all the time. Known to have grown millions of years ago, the dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) was thought to be extinct until a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=43 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=43 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the things I love about container gardening is that it can be done by anyone in any space, large or small. However, in smaller spaces there are unique considerations to be aware of, as well as ways to make the most of the space you have. Whether you have a patio, courtyard, balcony, or deck to garden on, one of these ideas is bound to be a creative solution to your space dilemma. Stack Your Pots: I've used this idea in large courtyards to create a sense of drama, as well as in tight spots where you can only http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=45 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=45 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Nothing says summer eats to me like watermelon. I can remember sitting on the water cistern at my grandparents' farm, eating a big ol' slice of watermelon and seeing how far I could spit the seeds. I don't remember winning too many of those seed-spitting contests, but I can recall in an instant the juicy good taste of that watermelon. Now that I'm an adult and I have my own garden, I love that I can grow my own watermelons. No, they aren't the gigantic green monsters you can get at the grocery store, but bigger isn't always http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=39 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=39 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Mexican feathergrass (Nasella tenuissima) is one of the most valuable grasses for homeowners today, and with good reason. It's a manageable size, combines well with a variety of other plants, and demands very little in terms of tender loving care. Here's a rundown of the features: Size: While many grasses measure 3 to 4 feet and taller, Mexican feathergrass grows 18 to 24 inches, making it a very versatile lower-size to midsize grass. And while each grass keeps its own manageable form, it does reseed a bit freely, so unless you are going for a naturalized meadow, you'll have to remove http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=46 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=46 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you've gardened for a while, chances are you've encountered powdery mildew on both your ornamental and edible plants. It looks like a talcum-powder dusting, usually on the top sides of leaves, and it's more prevalent in warm climates and on new growth. This is a very damaging disease because if it's not prevented or caught and treated early, it can wipe out the plant and move to other nearby plants. Despite a popular misconception, powdery mildew is not caused by water, but by humidity of 90 percent or more. Plants that are crowded in dry, shaded areas seem susceptible, so http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=34 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=34 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT Many gardeners love to attract butterflies to their gardens, so they choose specific plants to grow in them. While many adult butterflies will sip nectar from any number of different flowers, when it comes to choosing a location to lay their eggs, they can be mighty picky. This is because in their caterpillar (larval) form, many will eat one type of plant exclusively. For example, the monarch butterfly, one of the easiest to raise inside your home, will feed only on plants in the Asclepias family. These include all types of milkweed-swamp, common, showy, and one known simply as http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=33 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=33 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the best reasons-and there are many-to add silver- or gray-leafed plants to your garden is that these are typically some of the toughest plants around. These plants have evolved to develop the silver color, which reflects the sun's heat, keeping the plant cooler and allowing it to hold on to precious moisture. So if you're dedicated to xeriscaping-using plants and garden practices to conserve water-these plants should have a starring role in your garden. Plants with silver or gray leaves also add a wonderful counterpoint to flower colors like orange and blue, as well as a visual pop amongst http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=35 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=35 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I first started gardening, I didn't even know about deadheading. I let the garden do its thing, and boy, did it. I soon learned that not only would cutting the spent flower heads off give my garden a fresher, cleaner appearance, but in some cases, it would also spur the plants to flower again. But what to do with all that stuff I cut off? At first, I just threw everything over the back fence into the farmer's field, for him to plow under or for it to decompose on its own, just lying there. I http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=32 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=32 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Our daughter and her husband live in a typical small Midwestern town with tree-lined sidewalks, though you're just as likely to see people walking down the street as on the walks. It's a modest, quiet neighborhood where elaborate landscaping isn't common. But one house, across the street from our daughter's, has a beautiful burgundy maple tree with feathery leaves. This tree stands out from the others, even from other dark maple trees. Its form is graceful, and though the rest of the landscaping is less than ordinary, in a quiet, elegant way, the maple tree elevates the character http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=31 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=31 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT There's nothing fresher to me than the scent of lemons! But when you add that lemon scent to culinary herbs, you get an intoxicating one-two punch that's hard to beat. Lemony herbs all love an abundance of sun and loose, well-drained soil, but although they're easy to grow, they're not always readily available in freshly cut bunches at the grocery store. It's definitely worth it to grow your own; here are my top four to get you started: Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus): This is probably my favorite herb, as it's not only ornamental and easily interplanted with annuals, but it also http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=36 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=36 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Who doesn't love April, with its burst of color from spring bulbs such as crocus, tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths? My winter blahs just melt away as each appears, one by one, until the garden is screaming, "It's spring!" Oh, wait. That was me! Each spring, when I see these flowers in all their glory, I get greedy. I want more. I vow to make a list of places where I want bulbs to go and a list of those to buy in the fall when it's time to plant them. I always want more of the usuals-tulips, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=2 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=2 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT If you are searching for a new, fresh look for either your container garden or your overall landscape, consider tropical plants for some drama. Perhaps you just put in a new pool or spa, recently went on vacation to Hawaii, or have a little patio that needs updating-tropical plants could be just what you're looking for this year. What makes the tropical look so hot? Here are some tips: Large Leaves: There's something a bit otherworldly about plants with gigantic or oversize foliage. We're talking elephant ears, cannas, ginger, palms, aralia, and philodendron. These can be the backbone of your http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=37 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=37 Sat, 26 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT I was probably the last person on earth to find out what pesto is. I'd heard of it, but not being all that adventurous when it comes to trying new things to eat, I coasted through life without bothering to ask about pesto. Then I became a gardener. When you're a gardener, you find yourself involved in conversations about things you never thought you would discuss. "Do you stake your tomatoes or do you use cages?" Cages. "How do you get rid of slugs in your garden?" Beer traps. "How do you make your pesto?" Busted! Just in case you're a http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=30 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=30 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I first began gardening, I wasn't too tuned in to pest management and organic methods. All I really wanted were some pretty flowers and good fresh vegetables to eat. It didn't take me long to realize that if you garden long enough, you will have some creatures that view your garden as a fine-dining menu, and you will have to make some decisions about how to handle them. One of the most difficult pests that I've experienced so far is the obnoxious leaffooted bug. Why is it so difficult? Because it attacks a variety of edibles and ornamentals, is hard http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=38 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=38 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Now that our gardens are in full swing and many plants have experienced their first flush of blooms, we smile every time we walk outside and see all that color. Annuals tend to provide blooms nearly all summer, which is one big reason why we plant them. Even though they can't survive freezing temperatures, they give us a big bang for our buck, making them worth buying every year. Think about the petunia. You plant it in a hot, sunny location, you water it, and then it does its thing. All summer long. You can even http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=29 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=29 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT In early spring the amazing hellebores that started flowering in winter continue to produce their colorful blooms in shades of pink, magenta, white, and green, as well as fresh new leaves, creating a lush carpet under deciduous shrubs like witch hazels, viburnums, evergreen rhododendrons, and native azaleas. Another early bloomer that appears almost magically is Virginia bluebell, Mertensia virginica. This woodland charmer has light green leaves and flowers that start out pink in bud and open to pink or blue. It looks good when paired with the yellow flowers of wood poppy, Stylophorum diphyllum. Once the summer heat arrives, Virginia http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=21 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=21 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Most of us grow vegetables and fruits in our gardens for the purpose of eating what we grow. It's not that the plants aren't pretty to look at, because most of them are, but good taste and filling our tummies is why those tomatoes and beans are there. The usual fare is green beans, carrots, tomatoes, and lettuce, with maybe some beets on the side. But those are only the tip of the iceberg! And yes, you can grow an "iceberg" in your garden, too. It's a type of lettuce, of course. In addition to the commonly eaten parts of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=28 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=28 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes it just so happens that fruits or vegetables ripen in the garden at the same time and they make good companions when they get to the kitchen. As June rolls around, one of the first pleasures that comes to mind is the strawberries. Though there are ever-bearing types that produce fruit most of the summer, it's the June-bearers that seem to get the most attention and some believe those to have the best flavor. There are so many tasty things you can do with strawberries. Shortcake is always good, but so is cheesecake topped with fresh berries. Then http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=26 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=26 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the advantages of gardening in pots is that you can easily monitor and adjust the soil type as well as the water and fertilizer. You can also add a product called water grabbers (they are sold under different names) to the soil to help it conserve moisture. Some bagged soil mixes already contain this water-saving product. Read the label for how much to use. Container gardening also provides freedom to experiment, allowing you to combine plants such as tropicals and exotics for which you might not want to allocate space in your landscape. A single boxwood or Japanese maple in http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=22 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=22 Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT The hydrangeas begin to bloom here in Ohio in June. There's nothing like the big, frilly balls of bloom on the mophead types, unless it's the graceful lacecaps. I used to think I liked the lacecaps best, because they were a little out of the ordinary, but then I discovered yet another bloom type-the paniculatas, whose blooms are towers of beauty. The mopheads are likely the most familiar to gardeners, with 'Nikko' common in many gardens. A newer variety is 'Incrediball,' with its gigantic round heads of bloom. 'Invincibelle' is another; its large pink balls are out of http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=25 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=25 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Annual vines afford an easy way to jazz up the landscape without committing to a particular plant or style beyond one growing season. They offer the opportunity to experiment with color, fragrance, and texture. Many bloom from late spring until frost, providing a long season of color. Vines such as the Mexican flame vine add bold color (bright orange-red daisylike blooms) and will happily mix and mingle with other plants, while mandevilla needs only a mailbox or post to make a statement all of its own. Allamanda is a tropical vine with large golden trumpets and glossy http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=5 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=5 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Remember the little jade plant you had in the windowsill of your dorm room at college? It was your first "home away from home" and while you wanted a plant to make it seem a little more domestic, you didn't really want to have to take care of it much. A jade was perfect-a sunny window and a little water now and then and it was happy. The undemanding jade plant made you look like you actually could grow something. It's still like that, this jade plant (Crassula ovata). Maybe you still have the one you grew http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=27 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=27 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Ferns provide interesting forms and textures in the shade garden, and many are long-lived and easy to cultivate. While they may look graceful and delicate, they can be tenacious too. While it's hard for me to choose one favorite fern, there are a few that I especially like. The Christmas fern, Polystichum acrostichoides, is one of the least fussy ferns I know of. Its evergreen fronds are 1 to 2 feet long and form lovely dark green clumps. This native likes a moist woodland but does equally well in a dry or rocky spot. When I have hiked through http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=6 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=6 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT The monarch butterflies have returned from their overwintering sites for the summer. If they are from the eastern two-thirds of the United States, each year they will travel hundreds of miles to a specific site in Mexico, where they spend the winter. The monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains will fly to sites in California. Now that they are back, the monarchs will spend the summer feeding and breeding, producing a first, second, and third generation of offspring. They'll do this in natural habitats such as open fields and roadside ditches, and if you're lucky, your garden. There are http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=24 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=24 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Taking advantage of vertical space is one of the easiest ways to add interest to your garden. And if you don't have a trellis, wall, or fence for vines to grow on, you can train them up a tree or over a hedge, as long as you choose the right plant for the right place. Because they are so aggressive, some hardy vines, although ornamental, should be planted with caution. Included in this group is Akebia quinata, fiveleaf akebia, twining 15 to 20 feet or higher. This hardy vine is perfect where fast cover is needed on a larger arbor, chainlink http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=9 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=9 Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT I love rhubarb cherry ice cream. When my rhubarb is starting to fill in, I know that soon I'll harvest pounds and pounds of the red-ribbed stalks. Toward the end of rhubarb season (by late May to early June), the cherries are ready for harvest. Fortunately, I freeze cherries from the previous year's harvest, and can whip up some of this delicious ice cream as soon as the rhubarb is ready. Rhubarb-Cherry Mixture 4 to 5 stalks of rhubarb, chopped 1 cup pitted cherries 1 cup sugar, to taste, depending upon the sweetness of the cherries Splash of water Pinch of salt Combine the rhubarb, cherries, sugar, http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=4 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=4 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT I still remember when I developed an aversion to variegated plants. I was in high school living with my parents in Bethesda, Maryland. Our lackluster landscape included evergreens with yellow flecks at the front door, which never looked quite right. There always seemed to be at least some percentage of leaves with black tips, and overall these shrubs did little to enhance the scene. I now know that my dislike of this variegated aucuba, Aucuba japonica 'Variegata' (commonly called the gold dust plant) had more to do with the fact that it was poorly sited and struggling http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=7 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=7 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT When I first heard the term heirloom bandied about when talking about seeds (mostly tomatoes), I thought I knew what it meant. But if I had to explain it to someone, I wasn't really sure I could and get it right. So I looked it up. Think of it like this. Most of us understand what a family heirloom is-an article that has been handed down from one generation to the next for a long time, such as a ring or a vase. With seeds, it's much the same. Heirloom seeds are those that have been saved year after year from plants http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=1 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=1 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Don't let the prospect of hot, humid summer days keep you from enjoying your garden. Now is the perfect time to plan ahead and add summer annuals that will thrive even with soaring temperatures. One of my new favorites is Euphorbia 'Diamond Frost.' White baby's breath-like flowers cover this tough guy from late spring until frost, making it a great filler in the border or containers. When it comes to deer-proof plants, some claim that narrow-leaf Zinnia angustifolia (linearis), with its small daisy-like flowers, is a winner. Look for 'Crystal Orange,' 'Crystal White,' or the recent http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=8 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=8 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT "It's dead," or, "I lost it over the winter," are common comments this time of the year. Spring brings an explosion of green growth from perennials that went dormant through the cold winter. Gardeners wait with bated breath to see what kind of losses they might have, particularly if the winter was especially harsh. Of course, plant loss is a fact of life when you garden. Plants perish for numerous reasons, some of which you may never know. The plant tag says they're hardy to your zone, yet they disappear the following spring, never to be seen again. If you've experienced loss http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=23 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=23 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT With so many spring-flowering shrubs to choose from, I take time to consider the whole plant, not just its flowers, before I select a particular variety. Evergreen or deciduous, fine-textured or coarse-textured, these qualities all contribute to the overall effect of the shrub. What follows are some random thoughts and suggestions of shrubs for spring, addressing their blooms and growth habits as well as their overall appearance-for example, are they tidy, messy, delicate, bulky, or compact? Abelia x grandiflora , glossy abelia, has been grown in gardens for generations. While it may not be a show stopper, it thrives http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=10 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=10 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT You say CLEM-uh-tiss, I say Cluh-MATT-us. Let's call the whole thing a very pretty vine. But clematis is so much more than that! Undoubtedly, the most well-known cultivar of this hardy perennial is 'Jackmanii.' That's the luscious deep purple one that blooms in early summer and if you're lucky, does a bit of a rebloom later in the season. It falls into a particular class of clematis, of which there are three: Flowers on new wood (present year's growth) Flowers on old wood (last year's growth) Flowers on both new and old wood It helps to know which type you have so that you http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=11 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=11 Sun, 06 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT It's springtime and I've already seen my first butteflies. There is something magical about these winged beauties, and creating a garden to attract them is relatively easy. One of the main requirements is a sunny location-an area that receives four to six hours of direct sun every day. Butterflies also need a source of shallow water; a mud puddle or a saucer with wet sand or mud will do the trick. If you can provide some shelter from strong winds and a few stones where they can sum themselves, even better still. If you want to provide a haven for http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=13 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=13 Sat, 05 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Roses have captured the fancy of people for hundreds of years, and there's probably no one flower that has graced the gardens of so many. The exquisite and varied blooms and fragrances mean there's a rose for everyone. If you've never grown roses and are intimidated by their often-undeserved reputation for being difficult, try miniature roses. These little beauties have all the charm of their larger siblings and then some. Whether you plant them in the ground or grow them as a container plant, they are pretty fuss-free. My first miniature rose was one that I won at a college class reunion. http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=12 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=12 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT When you design your garden, think about grouping plants of similar colors (both foliage and flowers). This will go a long way toward creating a cohesive feel. You can apply the same principles when planting your containers. Once the color scheme is determined, adding plants that contrast or complement the scene will keep it dynamic and interesting. In my own garden and in some of the many gardens I have visited over the years, I have discovered, through trial and error, combinations that are effective color echoes. I tend to group plants according to their season of bloom, combining those http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=14 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=14 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT One of the loveliest fragrances in the garden is that of the lilac. It's a much-beloved plant that usually grows in shrub form, although some are more treelike. The lilac is one of the first plants I learned to identify as a child, probably because they're so commonly found in home landscapes,, especially older ones. I remember my grandma telling me that people used to plant lilacs near their doors so when visitors came and knocked on the door, they had a nice fragrance to enjoy while they were waiting. They liked to plant them near a window for the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=17 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=17 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT Spiky or fuzzy, rough or smooth, large or small, foliage can enrich your garden as much as flowers and create interest throughout the growing season. Combining leaves of different shapes, sizes, and colors provides interest that lasts for months. Perennial delights like lamb's ears, with its soft gray leaves, or the silver spiky cardoon, Cynara cardunculus (it is also grown for its edible stalks), are two examples of plants with distinctive foliage. Cardoon is really a biennial, but it usually sends up baby plants every year, so you always have a crop. The various colors of sweet potato http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=16 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=16 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT I like to have fun in the garden. Growing the same things year after year would just be boring, so each year I try to grow something new or something unusual. A couple of years ago, things in the vegetable garden took on a decidedly purple hue. There is that usual purple veggie-eggplant-but it was the purple beans that caught my eye and sparked the idea of growing as many purple vegetables as space in our garden allowed. We already grew red beets, and lots of them. Pickled beets is a family favorite and we love them so much that we don't http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=18 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=18 Mon, 31 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT Springtime offers a host of fragrant possibilities including bulbs, vines, shrubs, and trees. Fortunately, many of the spring-blooming beauties that offer scented flowers or foliage also make handsome specimens in the garden. My suggestions are based on scents that I have enjoyed over the years. Like color, perfume that pleases is a matter of personal taste. Bulbs such as old-fashioned hyacinth, and some tulips, offer sweet scent, and there are countless types of Narcissus (daffodils) I have grown that delight my nose. All are easy to grow provided they get plenty of light and well-drained soil. One of the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=20 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=20 Sun, 30 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT Before I became a gardener, I was a dental hygienist. Now I'm both, and while enjoying both my profession and my favorite pastime, I wear gloves. It wasn't always that way. When I graduated from college, it wasn't a requirement for dental professionals to wear gloves while working and almost no one did. Then OSHA came along and told us we had to. Though it was for our own good, most of us grumbled about it, with the biggest reason being that we couldn't feel what we were doing as well. But not much time passed before we went from complaining about http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=19 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=19 Sat, 29 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT Sometimes it's easy to try and cut corners to save on expenses, but sometimes that's a crime and it doesn't pay. I can be as thrifty as the next person, but there's one thing in the garden that I don't scrimp on and that's mulch. Mulch is important in my garden for a multitude of reasons, which I'll get to shortly, but first let's talk about the kinds of mulch available. When I hear the word mulch, I think of brown or black shredded hardwood, but there's so much more! Each type has its advantages, depending on the http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=3 http://www.digplantgrow.com/blogs/blog.php?id=3 Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT