Here is an assortment of perfect gifts for gardeners and homeowners on your holiday shopping list. Let’s face it. The colder months of the holiday season do not lend themselves to gardening in most climates. But that doesn’t mean gardening is completely out of mind. Avid gardeners and homeowners who must keep their yards neat and tidy appreciate garden-related gifts during “the most wonderful time of the year.” It is actually quite easy to find great gifts for gardeners and homeowners. These folks always need something to satisfy their green thumbs, finish a DIY project, or add one more personal touch to the property. That’s why the editors of Home, Garden and Homestead have put together their annual list of the best gifts for gardeners this holiday season. Heck, you might even want to give some of these gifts to yourself. Gifts for Gardeners: Yard Decor Solar Wind Spinner Wind spinners have been a popular yard decoration for many years. But … [Read more...] about Gifts For Gardeners This Holiday Season
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How to Grow and Harvest Garlic
It’s easy to grow and harvest garlic if you follow a few basic steps. Garlic, with its pungent aroma and distinct flavor, has been a staple ingredient in culinary traditions across the globe for centuries. To grow and harvest garlic in your garden, start by learning the nuances of the growing process. With a little planning and knowledge, you can cultivate a thriving garlic patch that will reward you with bountiful yields. The Benefits of Garlic There are many reasons to add garlic to your garden. For example, garlic has many medicinal benefits. Garlic has a rich concentration of organosulfur compounds. These compounds, including allicin, have been linked to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In addition, the act of gardening in itself is a gentle form of exercise and an activity that can improve memory and concentration. Keeping track of your plants' needs is a good way to improve your cognitive skills. Plus, being outdoors is good for your overall health, and … [Read more...] about How to Grow and Harvest Garlic
How to Plant an Apple Tree
Plant an Apple Tree Using these Step-by-Step Instructions. Planting an apple tree involves a combination of art and science. It begins with understanding your local conditions and ends with ongoing tree care. In this story, we will provide step-by-step instructions and photos showing the mechanics of how to plant an apple tree. Container-grown trees can be planted in the spring or fall. Bare root trees can be planted in the spring or fall when the trees are dormant. For more information about selecting the specific variety of apple tree that’s best for you, please read Chose the Right Variety of Apple Tree. Before You Go to the Tree Nursery Before you buy an apple tree, make sure there is enough space in your yard to accommodate a mature tree. Standard (full-sized) apple trees can reach 30-40 feet tall and can have a spread (width) of 30-40 feet. A semi-dwarf apple tree can grow to 14-20 feet tall and wide. A dwarf apple tree at maturity will typically reach 6-12 feet … [Read more...] about How to Plant an Apple Tree
Best Garden Pruners and Pruning Shears
Owning a pair of best garden pruners or pruning shears is essential for any gardener and homeowner. It doesn’t matter if you call them garden pruners or pruning shears. Those are simply two names for a handheld pair of garden clippers. But whatever you call them, owning a pair of the best garden pruners or pruning shears is essential for every gardener. Five Things to Look for in the Best Garden Pruners So, what should you look for when shopping for the best garden pruners? We’ve been using garden pruners for years, and these are the five things that qualify pair of pruning shears for the title of “best garden pruners.” Using these five criteria, we have tested pruning shears to determine those that qualify as best garden pruners for most gardeners. All of the garden pruners described below are available online from Amazon. Home Garden and Homestead is an Amazon affiliate, and we earn a small commission generated by the links in this story. Thanks for supporting this … [Read more...] about Best Garden Pruners and Pruning Shears
How to Grow Swiss Chard
Grow Swiss chard in your garden and enjoy fresh greens throughout the summer. Swiss chard is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be grown easily in a home garden. With its colorful stems and large, tender leaves, Swiss chard is a delicious and beautiful addition to any garden. This versatile plant can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and stir-fries. Here are some tips on how to grow Swiss chard, along with descriptions of some popular varieties. Grow Swiss Chard: Introduction Swiss chard can be grown in most regions and is best planted in the spring or fall. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Swiss chard can be grown in full sun or partial shade, but it does best with at least six hours of sunlight per day. To plant Swiss chard, sow seeds directly into the soil, about ½ inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water gently. Swiss chard seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days, depending on … [Read more...] about How to Grow Swiss Chard
