Should you water trees in winter? If so, what are the best tree watering tips for winter weather? Winter impacts everyone, and that includes the trees in your yard. Most people believe that since trees remain dormant during the winter season, the cold and dry conditions do not impact them. But that is far from the truth. The reality is that trees also experience the stress of the harsh winter season. You may not be able to witness the impact of winter on trees, but internally they are impacted unless you take proper steps to provide them relief. Editor’s Note: Keeping your trees healthy can involve more than proper watering. Dead tree branches should be removed to maintain optimum tree health. A battery-powered chainsaw is a handy tool to have in your tool shed! Protect Trees in Winter When it comes to providing relief, you must first know how the trees are affected by winter. Most people do not realize that if trees head into winter with dry roots, it can … [Read more...] about Should You Water Trees in Winter?
water
Water Bath Canning for Beginners
Water bath canning for beginners is growing in popularity. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people have discovered (or rediscovered) backyard gardening. The result is more gardeners growing more fruits and vegetables. With a bounty of new homegrown produce, these new gardeners now want to know how to preserve their harvests. Preserving fresh fruits and vegetables is commonly known as “canning.” Most people do their canning in glass jars, such as the canning jars from companies such as Ball and Mason. The most familiar type of canning is what is known as a water bath canning. Water bath canning for beginners starts with cooking the fruits or vegetables according to USDA directions. The put the cooked produce in canning jars and process it in a water bath. It sounds a bit complicated, but it really isn’t at all. When I was growing up, the produce from the garden was harvested. Then my mother and grandmother spent days cutting up the fruits and vegetables. Next, the … [Read more...] about Water Bath Canning for Beginners
Creating Your Ideal Garden Space
Whether you have a large lawned garden with fruit trees or a small shady backyard, you want to make the most of your outdoor space. But how do you turn it into the ideal garden space for you, and how do you keep it looking good? Even if you’re not an experienced gardener, you can still create your perfect outdoor space. Hiring expert help and adding new features to your garden will make a big difference. Here’s some quick tips to help you do that. How to find the right gardener First, it’s wise to hire someone local to help create your ideal garden space. The quickest and easiest way to find a gardener is to search on the internet for a gardener near me. But before you start handing over your money, you need to make sure you know what you want doing, how much it’s likely to cost, and whether the gardener can deliver the service you need. Make a shortlist of local gardeners, then give them a call and find out if they are taking on new clients and what sort of prices … [Read more...] about Creating Your Ideal Garden Space
Soil Testing for Beginners
Soil testing and examining the soil is crucial to growing healthy plants. Quite simply, plants won't survive without good, healthy soil. Good soil can support plant growth because it contains the right amounts of nutrients plants need. Also, healthy soil has the right consistency to support root health and development. When the roots are growing rapidly, healthily, and happily, you can grow the healthiest plants. That’s why soil testing is so important. Soil testing is checking for all the qualities of good soil: structure, compaction, ease of use or workability, the presence of natural organisms, plant development, water infiltration, and soil pH. Here are some practical soil testing techniques. Soil Testing for Structure You can't tell if your garden soil is dry or wet just by looking at the surface. Dig a small hole about 10 inches deep and place the soil in a small tray. Try to take an intact soil sample and break it apart with your hands. Check if the soil is … [Read more...] about Soil Testing for Beginners
How to Make Your Own Terrarium
When you make your own terrarium, you create a miniature garden for your home or office. It’s easy, and you will enjoy it for years. You can make your own DIY (do-it-yourself) terrarium using basic gardening supplies and materials from around the house. If you are not familiar with terrariums, think of it as a miniature contained garden. A terrarium is sort of like an aquarium, but for plants! A terrarium is a great addition to any indoor space. It makes a wonderful gift, too. Plus, making your own DIY miniature garden is a fun indoor gardening project when the weather turns cold. What is a Terrarium? A terrarium is a simple garden enclosed in glass or plastic. One benefit of growing plants inside a terrarium is the ability to control the growing environment and adapt it to specific plant materials. A closed terrarium allows you to maintain a humid atmosphere for plants like ferns, polka dot plant, and Venus flytrap. You can also use your DIY terrarium to start … [Read more...] about How to Make Your Own Terrarium
