To protect our precious plants and our environment we look for safe and natural ways to garden. Oil-based pesticides are an effective and ecologically friendly way to handle many insect pests and even some diseases. Various oils have been used for centuries. They remain an important tool to manage certain pest problems (e.g. scales, aphids, … Read more
March 20th. That seems hard to believe doesn’t it? But here it comes and it’s time to get ready! Although it’s too soon to start most seeds, there are a few exceptions. One of my early starts is caladiums. They take so long to get going because they like warm soil, so that’s what I … Read more
Although we hope winter is on the wane, several more inches of snow are possible. Believe it or not, we should be grateful for snow! It not only insulates plants from cold but also from early warmth that could trick them into growing too soon. Consider it a down jacket for your precious plants. We … Read more
Christmas trees can be put to good use after the holidays. Here are some tips for repurposing a tree. Begin by removing all decorations, including tinsel. And of course, don’t do this with an artificial tree! The first thing is to get it out of the house. Dragging a no-longer-fresh Christmas tree outside after the … Read more
Buying poinsettias Never buy a poinsettia found next to a set of automatic doors that open every 30 seconds because it will have been damaged by the exposure to drafts or temperatures below 50°F which will cause the poinsettia to drop its leaves soon after being brought home. A healthy poinsettia plant will have … Read more
There is an old Mexican legend about how Poinsettias and Christmas come together. In the 1500’s, there was once a poor Mexican girl called Pepita who was sad because she had no gift to give the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services. Her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her up, saying “I’m sure that … Read more
Poinsettias, holly, ivy, rosemary, mistletoe, evergreen trees—-there are so many plants associated with Christmas. Did you ever wonder why? Here’s a little history lesson… Greenery was used in ancient times to celebrate the Winter Solstice by warding off evil spirits. When Christianity came to Europe, the greenery was kept but given Christian meanings. Holly’s prickly … Read more
Milkweed seeds can be started in the winter and basically left alone until they’re almost ready to transplant. For us, late January or February planting should give plenty of time for cold stratification. You will need containers. Gallon milk jugs or distilled water jugs work great, but you can also use 2 liter soda bottles … Read more