Gardening Advice

Argh! How DO you keep squirrels out of potted plants? If these mischievous critters dig in the container soil, they also destroy your plants. Here are six DIY methods to keep squirrels out of the flower pots.We have a giant oak tree in our backyard, which I love for its shade. However, it also provides a ton of acorns, which draw squirrels from far and wide. They love digging in my potted…

Native plants are the best choice for both a low-maintenance and sustainable landscape. Get a list of common plants that are native to the United States and Canada, and learn the secrets of landscaping with native plants.What Is a Native Plant?So, what makes a plant native? Native Plant Trust defines a native plant as “one that was growing in North America before European…

By using organic soil amendments, you can turn poor garden soil into a nutrient-rich paradise. What do we mean by “soil amendments”? What are some great soil amendments? Here is a brief overview listing some of the best amendments for your garden!Which Nutrients Do Plants Need?Just like humans, plants need a wide range of nutrients to keep them growing healthy and strong. Soil…

Don’t be tempted to start planting too soon! Average spring frosts are just a rough guide. Springcasting is a way to predict and track the progress of spring across the continent—as defined by plants. See when spring “officially” makes it to your neck of the woods.During an unusually warm stretch of weather in March, I was greatly tempted to start planting. Thankfully, I did…

Goodness, there are some gorgeous purple flowers! In ancient times, purple dye was so rare that it was only used by the rich and powerful. Luckily, nowadays, purple is available for all of us to use in our landscapes. See 20 purple-flowering plants to add to your garden.Purple, a symbol of royalty and wealth, adds richness and depth to a flowerbed or container. A mix of blue and red, purple…

I have two indoor cats that are curious kittens. They like to knock over pots, uproot my plants, and drag them around the house. Now that they are older, these incidents happen less often, but they still like to nibble on the leaves, often to the detriment of their tummies. Here are tips on keeping your cats out of your houseplants!I’ve also written about how I keep my cats away from the outdoor…

Got allergies? It helps to know which are the best plants and worst plants for allergies—plus, here are six smart practices to cut down on allergic reactions.Depending on what triggers your allergic reactions—tree pollen, dust, mold spores, grasses, weeds, or strongly scented flowers—there are irritants present from early spring until hard frost. As hard as we try to eliminate the offending…

For years, gardeners have used peat-based soilless mixes to get those seeds off to a good start, but as with many aspects of gardening that are proving to not be sustainable or good for the planet, we need to give peat a second look. Many of us are trying out alternatives with good success. Learn more about peat and peat alternatives.What Is Peat Moss?Peat moss or “peat” is made of…

Propagating roses may seem like something only an experienced gardener could do, but it is actually rather easy. If you have a cherished rose bush and want to create more of it for yourself or to share with friends and family, it is easy to do by taking cuttings. Just follow this simple step-by-step guide.When to Take Rose CuttingsTo “propagate” a rose means starting a young rose plant…

Grow a garden that looks—and tastes—great by mixing flowers with herbs and vegetables! It’s only been in recent times that we have developed this urge to separate ornamentals from edibles. Discover what we call “edible landscaping” to make your yard more of a livable retreat.What is Edible Landscaping?Edible landscaping incorporates fruit-bearing plants, culinary herbs, vegetables, and…

In the past several years, victory gardening has seen a dramatic resurgence as more people discovered the practical benefits of growing food and self-reliance! Find out why we call it a victory garden, what’s planted in a victory garden, and how to start a victory garden in modern times!What is a Victory Garden?The name comes from the Victory Gardens that were planted across the…

How long do garden seeds last? How do you tell if your old seeds are still good? Let’s find out!Wintertime is the season when these questions matter. The gorgeous seed catalogs arrive in the mail, tempting you with beautiful photographs.But before you go crazy, it’s time to inventory your leftover seeds to avoid duplication and determine viability.How Long Do Vegetable…