Those first sunny days of spring are torture for gardeners in colder climates that just can’t wait to get their hands dirty. While the warm sunshine is an invitation to play in the dirt, wise gardeners know that Mother Nature can quickly take it away and replace it with more … [Read more...]
Ground Rules: Tips to Improve Garden Soil
Photo found on Flickr, courtesy of Bukowsky18. The most effective gardeners realize that soil is not inert or changeless. Soil is a living mass that changes season to season. It might be best to think of your garden soil as a living entity filled with billions of organisms … [Read more...]
How to Divide Perennial Plants
Perennial plants are favorites with most gardeners because they come back each year in greater glory than the year before. But as perennials grow and spread in your garden, there comes a time when they need to be divided. Most gardeners, particularly those new to the hobby, … [Read more...]
What Do Sun and Shade Mean in the Garden?
If you garden, you’ve heard it over and over: This plant needs full sun, or partial shade, or part sun. But what exactly does that mean? Let’s take a look at the differences between the various requirements for sun and shade. Full Sun: Six hours of sunlight each day, … [Read more...]
How to Force Bulbs in Winter
In northern climates forcing bulbs gives you the pleasure of colorful flowers in the dark of winter, plus the satisfaction of creating this indoor garden of delight yourself. Forcing can be a little tricky. It may take some trial and error, but once you get the hang of it you can … [Read more...]