文章
Abigal
2017年02月21日
Everyone loves the mason jar… it holds a sense of nostalgia and is a versatile #decorating element in any style #garden ! Here are five great ways to turn the inexpensive and easy to find mason jar into great outdoor garden lighting for your yard or patio!
Project One:
Candle Lighting
Fill mason jars one third full with sand, beans or gravel, and nestle a small candle into the sand. Hang from trees and rooftops with heavy twine. Looks best in groups hung at different heights. Great if done over a dining table under the trees!
Project Two:
Got an unused clothesline? Hang mason jars randomly along the clothesline with wire. Now string white mini lights along the clothesline, wrapping as you go. When you reach a mason jar, wrap lights down into the jar, then back out again, and continue along the clothesline. Back yard bbq’s will never be the same!
Project Three:
Mason Jar Light Cluster
Create your own pendant lights with mason jars!
Project Four:
Mason Jar Oil Lamps
These are pretty easy to make… Poke a hole in the lid of the jar with a nail or drill. Insert a wick through the hole into the bottom of the jar. Fill with non toxic burning oil. I hear even olive oil will burn! Use a fiberglass wick from the craft store for best results, but you could even use a 100% cotton strip of fabric in a pinch. Light, and enjoy!
Project Five:
Solar Mason Jar Lantern
This #DIY mason jar project is easy, and inexpensive! Simply buy those small inexpensive garden solar lights at the dollar or discount store. Take the top “light and battery” section off of the stake. Place the light into the jar. Make sure the jar is positioned so that the solar panel gets lots of sun during the day.Five easy, inexpensive mason jar outdoor lighting projects anyone can do! Enjoy your outdoors
Project One:
Candle Lighting
Fill mason jars one third full with sand, beans or gravel, and nestle a small candle into the sand. Hang from trees and rooftops with heavy twine. Looks best in groups hung at different heights. Great if done over a dining table under the trees!
Project Two:
Got an unused clothesline? Hang mason jars randomly along the clothesline with wire. Now string white mini lights along the clothesline, wrapping as you go. When you reach a mason jar, wrap lights down into the jar, then back out again, and continue along the clothesline. Back yard bbq’s will never be the same!
Project Three:
Mason Jar Light Cluster
Create your own pendant lights with mason jars!
Project Four:
Mason Jar Oil Lamps
These are pretty easy to make… Poke a hole in the lid of the jar with a nail or drill. Insert a wick through the hole into the bottom of the jar. Fill with non toxic burning oil. I hear even olive oil will burn! Use a fiberglass wick from the craft store for best results, but you could even use a 100% cotton strip of fabric in a pinch. Light, and enjoy!
Project Five:
Solar Mason Jar Lantern
This #DIY mason jar project is easy, and inexpensive! Simply buy those small inexpensive garden solar lights at the dollar or discount store. Take the top “light and battery” section off of the stake. Place the light into the jar. Make sure the jar is positioned so that the solar panel gets lots of sun during the day.Five easy, inexpensive mason jar outdoor lighting projects anyone can do! Enjoy your outdoors
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文章
Joss
2017年02月20日
Lavender blooms in many parts of the world , and there are few #flowers that are more cherished for romance, scent and form. What most gardeners don’t realize is that lavender is easy to grow and maintain, and can make a splash in your flower beds, add an old world touch to your flower gardens, or can have an entire garden design based around it, whether your style is modern, or old world. You can use the flowers for craft projects, aromatherapy, or even a relaxing tea! You don’t have to have a generous field of lavender in Provence to enjoy and appreciate all it can do for your garden. The featured photo above is from a recent trip to Vashon Island, WA. Simply gorgeous! Here are seven easy tips for growing lavender in any garden space!
1. Lavender needs one thing to grow well…good drainage. This is all fine and good if you have a naturally sandy or gravelly soil in your yard, but pretty problematic if your entire garden is pure clay! The solution? You can either grow your lavender in raised beds with good soil, or you can use containers. Regular planting mix is fine, just make sure there are plenty of drainage holes. If your lavender is yellowing, first thing to check is drainage.
2. Lavender is drought tolerant once established, but they do bloom better if they are watered as soon as the soil becomes dry one inch down.
3. Lavender are short lived plants by nature. If they are happy in their spot, they will last a bit longer, but even under the best conditions, three years is not unusual for a plant to start dying out in the center. Here’s the up side of that. Lavender volunteers show up each year in droves, so there are always new plants ready to take over the ones that have passed their prime!
4. Lavender does not need much in the way of fertilizer, making them great low maintenance plants. Give them a dose of liquid fertilizer in the spring, then leave them alone, Too much fertilizer will produce plants that are large and spindly, with fewer flowers.
5. Early each spring, make sure you cut your lavender back, and don’t be a baby about it! Cut back most lavender to one third their height to rejuvenate the plant, and make sure your plant is flowering at it’s best.
6. Lavender blooms in early to mid summer, but may be convinced to re-bloom in later summer or fall. After the first flush of bloom has been harvested or died back, use scissors or shear to give the plant a light hair cut. Give it a dose of half strength liquid fertilizer, and leave it be. Chances are you will see more lavender later in the season!
7. To harvest lavender flowers, it’s best to cut them in bunches with long stems. Choosing to cut them in early morning maximizes the oils in the flowers, which gives them the best scent. You can use them fresh in vases with other cut flowers, or easily dry bunches by tying the ends together and hanging them upside down in a protected place. Dried lavender retains much of its scent and can be used in drawers, crafts or as decorative additions to wreaths or flower arrangements.
Note: Lavender is thought to help induce sleep and relaxation, either made into a tea, or tucked into pillow cases. You can even throw a sachet of lavender through the dryer with your sheets and towels for a natural scent to your laundry!
How to Make Lavender Dryer Sachets
Lavender is easy to grow, easy to find at most nurseries, and can be found in purples, blues, roses and whites. You can choose from hardy English lavender, larger French lavender that is the form you see in photos of the French countryside, or special Spanish lavender. Keep in mind that Spanish lavender, with its flower heads that remind me of butterflies, are great in containers, but are less hardy than its cousins.
Spanish Lavender
Grow lavender. Even if the only use you ever find for it is picking flowers and foliage as you pass by, and taking the time to smell that wonderful scent, fresh from your own garden.
1. Lavender needs one thing to grow well…good drainage. This is all fine and good if you have a naturally sandy or gravelly soil in your yard, but pretty problematic if your entire garden is pure clay! The solution? You can either grow your lavender in raised beds with good soil, or you can use containers. Regular planting mix is fine, just make sure there are plenty of drainage holes. If your lavender is yellowing, first thing to check is drainage.
2. Lavender is drought tolerant once established, but they do bloom better if they are watered as soon as the soil becomes dry one inch down.
3. Lavender are short lived plants by nature. If they are happy in their spot, they will last a bit longer, but even under the best conditions, three years is not unusual for a plant to start dying out in the center. Here’s the up side of that. Lavender volunteers show up each year in droves, so there are always new plants ready to take over the ones that have passed their prime!
4. Lavender does not need much in the way of fertilizer, making them great low maintenance plants. Give them a dose of liquid fertilizer in the spring, then leave them alone, Too much fertilizer will produce plants that are large and spindly, with fewer flowers.
5. Early each spring, make sure you cut your lavender back, and don’t be a baby about it! Cut back most lavender to one third their height to rejuvenate the plant, and make sure your plant is flowering at it’s best.
6. Lavender blooms in early to mid summer, but may be convinced to re-bloom in later summer or fall. After the first flush of bloom has been harvested or died back, use scissors or shear to give the plant a light hair cut. Give it a dose of half strength liquid fertilizer, and leave it be. Chances are you will see more lavender later in the season!
7. To harvest lavender flowers, it’s best to cut them in bunches with long stems. Choosing to cut them in early morning maximizes the oils in the flowers, which gives them the best scent. You can use them fresh in vases with other cut flowers, or easily dry bunches by tying the ends together and hanging them upside down in a protected place. Dried lavender retains much of its scent and can be used in drawers, crafts or as decorative additions to wreaths or flower arrangements.
Note: Lavender is thought to help induce sleep and relaxation, either made into a tea, or tucked into pillow cases. You can even throw a sachet of lavender through the dryer with your sheets and towels for a natural scent to your laundry!
How to Make Lavender Dryer Sachets
Lavender is easy to grow, easy to find at most nurseries, and can be found in purples, blues, roses and whites. You can choose from hardy English lavender, larger French lavender that is the form you see in photos of the French countryside, or special Spanish lavender. Keep in mind that Spanish lavender, with its flower heads that remind me of butterflies, are great in containers, but are less hardy than its cousins.
Spanish Lavender
Grow lavender. Even if the only use you ever find for it is picking flowers and foliage as you pass by, and taking the time to smell that wonderful scent, fresh from your own garden.
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文章
Joss
2017年02月20日
Enticing butterflies to your garden is fun and simple too. Butterflies are easy to attract to your garden if you plant a garden where the caterpillar (pupa step) has plants to eat and then the butterfly has flowers from which to sip nectar. Butterfly gardens are simple to plant and will provide you and your friends and family a chance to peek butterflies in their natural environment.
The basics are an open space with tons of sunshine and a location that is not windy. Choose a spot with lots of sunlight with a few rocks or stones that can warm up on which the butterflies will bask in the afternoon sun. Strive to locate your #garden close to hedges or shrubs that will aid in shielding them from the hardy winds. If it is too windy, the butterflies won’t stay around for any length of time. The hedge or shrub needs to develop food for the caterpillar. You can find out what the caterpillar likes best from your Nursery Garden Center.
Butterflies relish mud puddles where they can drink the water and soak up minerals. A patch of moist soil will make them joyful. Most urgent of all is that the garden be pesticide free. Some gardeners like to utilize pesticides to chase away unwanted pests, unfortunately it will keep the butterflies from visiting your garden too. Plant your butterfly garden in a cranny where it will be free of chemical pesticides. Worthier still, ask your Garden Headquarters about organic gardening.
Flowers with nectar are a need for a butterfly garden. When planting these nectar sources try to put in plants that will provide nectar throughout the growing season since these are the origin of subsistence for the butterflies. Don’t discount shrubs and wildflowers. Roses, geraniums and lilies have no nectar so plant them somewhere else. Have your garden assorted to allure a the greater quantity of butterflies. Another ingredient for the butterfly garden is a source for larva food. The caterpillar needs food to develop into a butterfly. If there is no food present they will die. Plant some herbs for both of you. They love parsley, dill, and fennel for their meal. What herbs they don’t eat you can collect for home cooking with fresh herbs.
A butterfly garden can also be planted in containers. Purchase some elegant pots and plant them with flowers that retain a magnificent bouquet as well as vivid pretty colors (available at your Garden Center). Petunias, daylilies or sweet alyssum will do the trick. Of course the butterfly bushes are a given, or plant some hanging baskets with Impatients (shade will be necessary).
Some gardeners like to fashion there own feeder and solution. And it is easy to do. Put 4 parts water to 1 part sugar in a pot, bring it to a boil and cook it until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to room temperature. Use a container that is somewhat shallow, drench a paper towel with the solution and position it in the garden receptacle. Deposit a stone in the garden container so the butterflies have a seat to rest on while they are feeding.
This would be a great project for the kids. Have them maintain a diary of each of the various species that stop by your butterfly garden. Let them look up the butterflies on the computer to understand all about each special butterfly and it becomes not only enjoyable, but a learning experience besides.
Because there are so many growing zones in the United States you will want to speak with your Nursery Headquarters for suggestions of what plants to utilize for attracting butterflies in your individual zone.
There is an ancient American Indian Fable about butterflies:
“To have a dream come true you must seize a butterfly. Whisper to the butterfly what your request is and then set it free. This tiny messenger will carry your wish to the Great Spirit in the sky and it will become true.”
What a great folktale.
Happy Gardening!
The basics are an open space with tons of sunshine and a location that is not windy. Choose a spot with lots of sunlight with a few rocks or stones that can warm up on which the butterflies will bask in the afternoon sun. Strive to locate your #garden close to hedges or shrubs that will aid in shielding them from the hardy winds. If it is too windy, the butterflies won’t stay around for any length of time. The hedge or shrub needs to develop food for the caterpillar. You can find out what the caterpillar likes best from your Nursery Garden Center.
Butterflies relish mud puddles where they can drink the water and soak up minerals. A patch of moist soil will make them joyful. Most urgent of all is that the garden be pesticide free. Some gardeners like to utilize pesticides to chase away unwanted pests, unfortunately it will keep the butterflies from visiting your garden too. Plant your butterfly garden in a cranny where it will be free of chemical pesticides. Worthier still, ask your Garden Headquarters about organic gardening.
Flowers with nectar are a need for a butterfly garden. When planting these nectar sources try to put in plants that will provide nectar throughout the growing season since these are the origin of subsistence for the butterflies. Don’t discount shrubs and wildflowers. Roses, geraniums and lilies have no nectar so plant them somewhere else. Have your garden assorted to allure a the greater quantity of butterflies. Another ingredient for the butterfly garden is a source for larva food. The caterpillar needs food to develop into a butterfly. If there is no food present they will die. Plant some herbs for both of you. They love parsley, dill, and fennel for their meal. What herbs they don’t eat you can collect for home cooking with fresh herbs.
A butterfly garden can also be planted in containers. Purchase some elegant pots and plant them with flowers that retain a magnificent bouquet as well as vivid pretty colors (available at your Garden Center). Petunias, daylilies or sweet alyssum will do the trick. Of course the butterfly bushes are a given, or plant some hanging baskets with Impatients (shade will be necessary).
Some gardeners like to fashion there own feeder and solution. And it is easy to do. Put 4 parts water to 1 part sugar in a pot, bring it to a boil and cook it until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to room temperature. Use a container that is somewhat shallow, drench a paper towel with the solution and position it in the garden receptacle. Deposit a stone in the garden container so the butterflies have a seat to rest on while they are feeding.
This would be a great project for the kids. Have them maintain a diary of each of the various species that stop by your butterfly garden. Let them look up the butterflies on the computer to understand all about each special butterfly and it becomes not only enjoyable, but a learning experience besides.
Because there are so many growing zones in the United States you will want to speak with your Nursery Headquarters for suggestions of what plants to utilize for attracting butterflies in your individual zone.
There is an ancient American Indian Fable about butterflies:
“To have a dream come true you must seize a butterfly. Whisper to the butterfly what your request is and then set it free. This tiny messenger will carry your wish to the Great Spirit in the sky and it will become true.”
What a great folktale.
Happy Gardening!
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文章
Joss
2017年02月18日
If you are gardening on a budget, have we got the plant for you! How can a plant choice help you spend less and garden more? Well if you grow Butterfly Bush, (Buddleia) its easy… here’s why.
Butterfly Bush is one of the easiest shrubs to grow. It is low maintenance, requiring little in the way of fertilizer, and is resistant to pests and disease. So you spend less on upkeep. Say that about a rose bush! The gray green leaves are the perfect backdrop for any garden, and they have a fine texture and arching shape that many gardens lack.
It grows fast. And we mean FAST.
Butterfly Bush will fill a corner, create a hedge or become the background of a large planting bed in one season. It grows 5-10 feet high and as wide, so it can make fast impact on your yard for little cash. Don’t bother with the $40 ten gallon size from the nursery. Buy them in four inch pots for $3, wait one season and have full size bushes!
It attracts, of all things, butterflies!
And occasionally hummingbirds, and the finches love to hang out there too. Forget a butterfly feeder, plant this shrub.
It has beautiful flowers perfect for cutting, and lots of them all summer long.
Butterfly Bush produces panicles of pretty flowers that range from a few inches to over a foot long depending on variety. The most common colors are pink and purple, but there are also blue, white and a yellow variety. The yellow happens to be fragrant as well, although the flower panicles are smaller. These all make great cut flowers on long stems, and bloom from June to September.
Drought Resistant means it saves water (and money!) too!
Butterfly Bush Growing Basics
Butterfly Bush will grow in poor soil, although prefers a mid range loam. Do not fertilize much as that will produce too much green growth, and make it lanky with few flowers.
Give them room…ten feet across is not uncommon.
Water well the first year to develop a good root system, and they are moderately drought resistant after that.
Cut back to 12-18 inches from the ground in early spring. That may sound severe, but this will create a more dense uniform plant with larger flowers. Trust us, it will rebound to its large size by June. This is the secret to attractive shrubs that make your garden look like a prize winning spot!
Don’t be in a hurry in the spring to see new growth, as Butterfly Bush is a late sleeper. It will put out new leaves a little later than a lot of other shrubs, so be patient, it catches up fast.
They do well down to Zone 5, and can be semi evergreen in areas that do not freeze. They are deciduous in colder areas, but since you cut it back to the ground in early spring anyway, it doesn’t matter.
Be aware, some varieties can be invasive. If you have that problem in your area, look for “sterile” varieties that do not self seed.
Our Fav Varieties!
Tried and True, “Pink Delight” is still the industry standard, with uniform growth and large, deep pink flowers. Other pink varieties we love” “Miss Molly” and “Royal Red”.
If you love fragrance, try “Honeycomb”. Yellow flowers and a delicious scent.
A dwarf variety that is suitable for large containers is “Blue Chip” This is also a sterile variety.
“Purple Emperor” is a fantastic deep purple with long panicles of flowers, and for a sparkling white variety, try “White Ball” or “White Profusion”
There are dozens of varieties from local and online nurseries, even selections with variegated foliage!
If you garden on a budget, Butterfly Bush is a proven winner that will quickly establish an attractive, full garden for little money, and basic upkeep. Already have it growing in your garden? Whats your experience with it?
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文章
Lisa
2017年02月18日
Many gardeners believe that no garden is complete without a lush green #lawn . If maintained greatly it gives a soft velvety touch to a garden, plus a most favorite site to leap and lie down for pets and children.
Making a lawn is easy but its maintenance and care is difficult. To make this green space more greener and refreshing than before, imply these 16 effective tips.
1. Don’t go for fancy stuff, always plant grass that is native and local and perfectly adapted to your climate. Examine your place perfectly to find out the hours of sunshine, temperature, growing conditions and soil type to choose a grass type you should grow.
2. What’s your soil pH? For lawns, pH level around 6 to 7.2 is required. Test your soil pH, if it’s not around the required level, amend your soil type.
3. Don’t plant lawns in completely shady area and avoid planting it on the slopes and anomalous spots of your yard.
4. Grass in shady part of your lawn requires less watering and fertilizer as it doesn’t receive full sun, you can’t perk up its growth by over watering and over fertilizing. The simple formula is to fertilize and water it half than the sunny spot.
5. Mow your lawn before grass reaches high to avoid sunburnt lawn, mowing tall grasses can shock their roots and dull the blades of mower, too.
6. Find out the mowing height of the grass you’re growing and cut according to it. For example, you should cut buffalo grass 2-3 inches and hybrid Bermudagrass around 1 inch. Read this post to find out ideal mowing height of your grass variety.
7. How you’ll know that your lawn needs mowing and it’s reaching height? The rule is simple, when it reaches the one third or more of the suggested mowing height, cut it. If you cut grass after 2 inch, then its mowing time is when it will reach 3 inch height.
8. Healthy growth of grass doesn’t let the weeds grow. If you want effective weed control in your lawn, grow a variety of tall grass, it’ll cover up the space for weeds and cut off their sun light.
9. Use edgings in your lawn, edgings restrict grasses from out bounding the lawn and give it a sheer look. You can use plastic edging or timber, concrete or brick edging.
10. Walking over the lawn and trampling it for years, tighten the soil and take all the air out from the area, that’s why you should aerate your lawn twice a year in both spring and fall. Aerating helps the root system and soil by providing the air and water. It also improves nutrients penetration. Aerating is the secret of happy green lawns.
11. Morning time is right for watering, as the water evaporates less. If your lawn is new you need to water more to let your plants establish.
12. Water your lawn 5-6 inches deep and let it dry up before another watering session. A lawn watered deeply doesn’t dry out quickly, best way to measure the level of water absorbed by the soil is to poke a rod or stick in the soil after watering.
13. The more you feed nitrogen rich fertilizer and water regularly, the more it will grow quickly and the more you’ll need to mow it. It’s good to make a balance for a lush lawn.
14. Best time to fertilize your lawn is in its growing season every 6 week.
15. Lack of calcium in soil provides prosperous thriving condition to common weeds. Spread lime using spreader if your soil doesn’t have calcium to magnesium ratio of 7 to 1.
16. You can feed your lawn with compost or manure, as manures are rich in nitrogen they are a better organic option than chemical fertilizers. Cow manure is best for lawns. Read this post to learn how to add manure to your lawn.
Making a lawn is easy but its maintenance and care is difficult. To make this green space more greener and refreshing than before, imply these 16 effective tips.
1. Don’t go for fancy stuff, always plant grass that is native and local and perfectly adapted to your climate. Examine your place perfectly to find out the hours of sunshine, temperature, growing conditions and soil type to choose a grass type you should grow.
2. What’s your soil pH? For lawns, pH level around 6 to 7.2 is required. Test your soil pH, if it’s not around the required level, amend your soil type.
3. Don’t plant lawns in completely shady area and avoid planting it on the slopes and anomalous spots of your yard.
4. Grass in shady part of your lawn requires less watering and fertilizer as it doesn’t receive full sun, you can’t perk up its growth by over watering and over fertilizing. The simple formula is to fertilize and water it half than the sunny spot.
5. Mow your lawn before grass reaches high to avoid sunburnt lawn, mowing tall grasses can shock their roots and dull the blades of mower, too.
6. Find out the mowing height of the grass you’re growing and cut according to it. For example, you should cut buffalo grass 2-3 inches and hybrid Bermudagrass around 1 inch. Read this post to find out ideal mowing height of your grass variety.
7. How you’ll know that your lawn needs mowing and it’s reaching height? The rule is simple, when it reaches the one third or more of the suggested mowing height, cut it. If you cut grass after 2 inch, then its mowing time is when it will reach 3 inch height.
8. Healthy growth of grass doesn’t let the weeds grow. If you want effective weed control in your lawn, grow a variety of tall grass, it’ll cover up the space for weeds and cut off their sun light.
9. Use edgings in your lawn, edgings restrict grasses from out bounding the lawn and give it a sheer look. You can use plastic edging or timber, concrete or brick edging.
10. Walking over the lawn and trampling it for years, tighten the soil and take all the air out from the area, that’s why you should aerate your lawn twice a year in both spring and fall. Aerating helps the root system and soil by providing the air and water. It also improves nutrients penetration. Aerating is the secret of happy green lawns.
11. Morning time is right for watering, as the water evaporates less. If your lawn is new you need to water more to let your plants establish.
12. Water your lawn 5-6 inches deep and let it dry up before another watering session. A lawn watered deeply doesn’t dry out quickly, best way to measure the level of water absorbed by the soil is to poke a rod or stick in the soil after watering.
13. The more you feed nitrogen rich fertilizer and water regularly, the more it will grow quickly and the more you’ll need to mow it. It’s good to make a balance for a lush lawn.
14. Best time to fertilize your lawn is in its growing season every 6 week.
15. Lack of calcium in soil provides prosperous thriving condition to common weeds. Spread lime using spreader if your soil doesn’t have calcium to magnesium ratio of 7 to 1.
16. You can feed your lawn with compost or manure, as manures are rich in nitrogen they are a better organic option than chemical fertilizers. Cow manure is best for lawns. Read this post to learn how to add manure to your lawn.
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文章
Martha
2017年02月17日
Learn how to grow #peanuts in this article. Growing Peanuts in containers is fun as well as easy to do and somewhat similar to #potatoes .
Difficulty— Easy
Other Names— Arachis hypogaea (Scientific Name), Groundnut
Soil pH— 6 – 6.5
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is an annual plant belonging to the Fabaceae family, a legume. It is a hardy plant that requires minimal attention. Peanut, which is also called groundnut contains many trace elements like copper, zinc, manganese and vitamin B and is very nutritious.
How to Grow Peanuts in ContainersPropagation and Planting Peanuts in containers
Fill the seed tray or container with potting soil or potting mix. Sow seeds at the depth of 3 cm. Cover them up with a thin layer of soil. Also note that peanut seeds you obtain for sowing must remain in their shell and you should open them just before planting.
For proper germination and maximum yield, temperature must be above 70 F (21 ° C), 80 F is optimum. After a week or two, the seeds will germinate.
Let the seedlings grow a bit and replant them in individual pots.
If you’re growing peanuts in cooler zone you should remember that peanuts require at least 100 frost free days to mature. You’ll need to start the seeds indoors, earlier, at least 30 days before the final frost date in the spring.
Choosing Containers
Peanut develops its pod from 5 to 10 cm under the ground. So select pot at least 30 cm deep and 40 – 50 cm. wide (1 feet deep and 1 – 2 feet wide). Make sure the pots have sufficient drainage holes. You can grow 2 – 3 plants in such a pot.
Requirements for Growing Peanuts in ContainersPosition
Peanut is a tropical plant, it loves to grow in slightly humid and warm conditions. When growing peanuts in containers place them in the sunniest but less windy spot of your balcony or terrace. The plant does not survive below 32 F (0 ° C). It flowers and fruits at a temperature between 70 – 95 F (20 to 35 ° C).
Soil
For growing peanuts in containers fertile and light soil is required, which is neutral in pH and well-drained. Best to buy a good quality organic potting mix or make your own.
Watering
When growing peanuts in pots, keep the soil slightly moist. During early growth and flowering period, increase watering. However, the plant tolerates short dry periods.
Peanut Plant CareEarthing up
The base of the peanut plant should be covered with soil to increase production. Once the plant reaches 10 inches of height earthen up the soil around the base, as is the case of potatoes, so as to favor the development of the pods.
Fertilizer
Initially it will not need any type of fertilization, but when you see the first yellow flowers forming, it is then useful to help the plant with the organic fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium as peanuts are legumes and form their own nitrogen you don’t need to fertilize them with additional nitrogen fertilizer.
Pests and Diseases
The most common diseases in addition to molds and fungi are leaf spots. In pests it is attacked by aphids, potato leafhopper and spider mites.
Harvesting PeanutsWhen and How to Harvest Peanuts?
Difficulty— Easy
Other Names— Arachis hypogaea (Scientific Name), Groundnut
Soil pH— 6 – 6.5
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is an annual plant belonging to the Fabaceae family, a legume. It is a hardy plant that requires minimal attention. Peanut, which is also called groundnut contains many trace elements like copper, zinc, manganese and vitamin B and is very nutritious.
How to Grow Peanuts in ContainersPropagation and Planting Peanuts in containers
Fill the seed tray or container with potting soil or potting mix. Sow seeds at the depth of 3 cm. Cover them up with a thin layer of soil. Also note that peanut seeds you obtain for sowing must remain in their shell and you should open them just before planting.
For proper germination and maximum yield, temperature must be above 70 F (21 ° C), 80 F is optimum. After a week or two, the seeds will germinate.
Let the seedlings grow a bit and replant them in individual pots.
If you’re growing peanuts in cooler zone you should remember that peanuts require at least 100 frost free days to mature. You’ll need to start the seeds indoors, earlier, at least 30 days before the final frost date in the spring.
Choosing Containers
Peanut develops its pod from 5 to 10 cm under the ground. So select pot at least 30 cm deep and 40 – 50 cm. wide (1 feet deep and 1 – 2 feet wide). Make sure the pots have sufficient drainage holes. You can grow 2 – 3 plants in such a pot.
Requirements for Growing Peanuts in ContainersPosition
Peanut is a tropical plant, it loves to grow in slightly humid and warm conditions. When growing peanuts in containers place them in the sunniest but less windy spot of your balcony or terrace. The plant does not survive below 32 F (0 ° C). It flowers and fruits at a temperature between 70 – 95 F (20 to 35 ° C).
Soil
For growing peanuts in containers fertile and light soil is required, which is neutral in pH and well-drained. Best to buy a good quality organic potting mix or make your own.
Watering
When growing peanuts in pots, keep the soil slightly moist. During early growth and flowering period, increase watering. However, the plant tolerates short dry periods.
Peanut Plant CareEarthing up
The base of the peanut plant should be covered with soil to increase production. Once the plant reaches 10 inches of height earthen up the soil around the base, as is the case of potatoes, so as to favor the development of the pods.
Fertilizer
Initially it will not need any type of fertilization, but when you see the first yellow flowers forming, it is then useful to help the plant with the organic fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium as peanuts are legumes and form their own nitrogen you don’t need to fertilize them with additional nitrogen fertilizer.
Pests and Diseases
The most common diseases in addition to molds and fungi are leaf spots. In pests it is attacked by aphids, potato leafhopper and spider mites.
Harvesting PeanutsWhen and How to Harvest Peanuts?
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1
文章
Andrea
2017年02月17日
If you want a great #vegetable #garden you need to use raised garden beds. Raised beds are great for growing healthy, productive vegetables and flowers and they’re easy to make.
Making a raised bed is a simple bit of carpentry that anyone should be able to do. The easiest way to buy some 2×12 lumber and screw them together in the shape of a rectangle. You can make them as long as you like but you should limit the width to 3 or 4 feet so you can easily reach in the bed to plant seeds, pull weeds or to harvest crops.
The next question you’re probably asking is what kind of wood do I use to build raised beds. The whole pressure treated vs. non issue is a complicated one. Does pressure treated wood leach chemicals into the soil? Well the answers are yes and maybe.
The old pressure treated lumber (CCA) is preserved with a process that uses arsenic. Obviously you don’t want arsenic anywhere near something you’re going to eat even in the small amounts that might be present in a raised bed vegetable garden. CCA wood isn’t too readily available anymore so you probably don’t have to worry about coming across it. The new improved pressure treated wood (ACQ) replace CCA pressure treated wood a few years ago. The lumber industry says it safer to handle and use but guess what? It eats through normal galvanized screws and fasteners. You have to use stainless steel screws with ACQ wood. I’m not an expert with lumber or chemicals but that sounds like something that shouldn’t be near my vegetables.
I think I’ll avoid all pressure treated wood until some long term studies are done.
Naturally rot resistant woods like cedar and redwood are great for building raised beds. But cedar and redwood are expensive. You could also use regular non-pressure treated lumber but just be aware that the wood will probably rot in a few years. It’s inexpensive enough that it shouldn’t be an issue.
If you plan on growing vegetables or flowers in your yard this year, why not try growing them in raised garden beds.
Making a raised bed is a simple bit of carpentry that anyone should be able to do. The easiest way to buy some 2×12 lumber and screw them together in the shape of a rectangle. You can make them as long as you like but you should limit the width to 3 or 4 feet so you can easily reach in the bed to plant seeds, pull weeds or to harvest crops.
The next question you’re probably asking is what kind of wood do I use to build raised beds. The whole pressure treated vs. non issue is a complicated one. Does pressure treated wood leach chemicals into the soil? Well the answers are yes and maybe.
The old pressure treated lumber (CCA) is preserved with a process that uses arsenic. Obviously you don’t want arsenic anywhere near something you’re going to eat even in the small amounts that might be present in a raised bed vegetable garden. CCA wood isn’t too readily available anymore so you probably don’t have to worry about coming across it. The new improved pressure treated wood (ACQ) replace CCA pressure treated wood a few years ago. The lumber industry says it safer to handle and use but guess what? It eats through normal galvanized screws and fasteners. You have to use stainless steel screws with ACQ wood. I’m not an expert with lumber or chemicals but that sounds like something that shouldn’t be near my vegetables.
I think I’ll avoid all pressure treated wood until some long term studies are done.
Naturally rot resistant woods like cedar and redwood are great for building raised beds. But cedar and redwood are expensive. You could also use regular non-pressure treated lumber but just be aware that the wood will probably rot in a few years. It’s inexpensive enough that it shouldn’t be an issue.
If you plan on growing vegetables or flowers in your yard this year, why not try growing them in raised garden beds.
0
0
文章
Abigal
2017年02月16日
Bringing birds to your garden is one of the great joys of any gardener. Aside form providing food, providing water is must in creating a wildlife friendly garden. Here is a quick and easy and cheap birdbath that looks elegant and can be made from items you already own or can easily get from your local garden center.
Supplies
Tall pot or urn, or even a piece of large pipe.
A large saucer
Silicone glue, if desired.
Several rough stones
Place your pot or urn in the desired place for your birdbath, depending on the shape of the vessel, you might wish to turn it upside down. I filled mine with rocks to give it weight and prevent it from blowing over in the wind.
Place the saucer on top of the pot, glue with silicone to keep in place if desired.
Place rough stones in saucer to give birds a foothold, then fill saucer with water.
Plant around the base of the birdbath to soften and add a natural effect. Use low growing plants. Or, tuck your bird bath into an already existing garden bed.
Hint: Place your birdbath in an open area such as a lawn. Birds prefer to be able to view the area for enemies, and will use your bath more often if they are not tucked back where a predator can hide. (Helps you to chase off those neighborhood predators as well!)
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文章
Andy
2017年02月15日
If you’re new to gardening and planning to grow herbs then check out these 13 easy to grow herbs. All of them are low maintenance.
Also Read: How to Make Spiral Herb Garden
Easy to Grow Herbs for a Herb Garden
1. Parsley
Parsley is a biennial herbaceous plant, although it can also be grown as an annual. It is propagated from seeds easily, place it in a sunny or shady it doesn’t mind, parsley is not picky about soil type too. However, choose soil that is not too compact. It is one of the most easy to grow herbs for containers.
2. Mint
Mint is a very aromatic, perennial herb that can be grown in pots or in garden soil.
It needs plenty of water and supply of mineral fertilizers or natural organic fertilizers to spread heavily. It grows better in partial shade. You can easily get new plants from its cuttings or by dividing the root ball.
3. Rosemary
Use it fresh or dried, rosemary is a boon to have in a kitchen garden. Growing rosemary from seeds is slightly difficult as it takes time, quicker way is to buy a potted rosemary plant and multiply it from cuttings.
4. Lavender
You can grow lavender in a variety of climates. Suitable for cool temperate or Mediterranean climates you can also grow this most beautiful herb in subtropical regions.
If you want to multiply it, do it by cuttings of 10 cm. in size in summer.
Also Read: How to Grow Lavender in Tropics
5. Thyme
An easy to grow and less demanding herb, it adapts to all types of soils and is highly resistant to drought. You only need to provide it the sun. After four or five years this low growing plant loses some of its perfume and you may need to replace the old plants. *Grow it as annual in tropics.
6. Chamomile
It likes full sun, with well-drained and permeable soil. It is resistant to drought and once bloomed in the spring, you should cut it to regain its strength. If you collect the flowers, you must do this in its fullness, dry flowers in shade to avoid the exposure to direct sunlight to avoid spoilage.
7. Sage
One of the toughest herbs that prefer full sun situations, especially if you live in a cool climate, always plant sage in a warm place. Sage can be grown in a variety of soil types, well draining and permeable soil with little organic matter is recommended. In subtropical or tropical climatic zones, grow sage in a slightly clayey soil in pots and provide shade in the afternoon. *Overwatering must be avoided.
8. Oregano
This pungent herb is most favorite of many. It is known for centuries throughout the Mediterranean and West Asia, where it grows freely. Growing oregano is not difficult, grow it from seeds, cuttings or buy a few potted plants for your garden in the spring. To ensure the quality, remove 3-4 years old plant and grow new ones.
9. Lemon Verbena
Being a subtropical herb lemon verbena needs a warm environment to thrive. Grow the plant in direct sun. In cooler zones, growing lemon verbena in pots is a better idea to protect it from frost.
10. Rue
Basically, an ornamental medicinal herb but it is also used in recipes though sparingly. It is not much popular but growing this pungent herb is a great way to repel insects from your garden. It grows in USDA Zones 4-9 and requires the sun or partial shade and protection from the wind. It prefers poor and calcareous soils.
11. Basil
Basil must be planted in full sun (6 hours minimum) in a well-drained and moist soil. Pick leaves to encourage the growth and when the plant is young pick the tips for thick bushier shape.
12. Curry Tree
Grow the pungent curry tree plant if you want to enjoy more flavor in your South East Asian delicacies and Indian curries. However, the curry tree does not tolerate frost but it is exceptionally a low maintenance, drought resistant tropical herb. You can grow it in a pot and protect it in winters, it’s easy.
Also Read: How to Grow Curry Tree
13. Bay Leaf Tree
One more small to medium sized tree in our list that is easy to grow. Grow bay leaf tree to add flavor to your soups and stews. This plant may not be hardy to cooler zones below 8 and requires protection in winter. The best way to overwinter this Mediterranean herb is to keep it indoors.
Learn how to grow laurel bay leaf tree
Also Read: How to Make Spiral Herb Garden
Easy to Grow Herbs for a Herb Garden
1. Parsley
Parsley is a biennial herbaceous plant, although it can also be grown as an annual. It is propagated from seeds easily, place it in a sunny or shady it doesn’t mind, parsley is not picky about soil type too. However, choose soil that is not too compact. It is one of the most easy to grow herbs for containers.
2. Mint
Mint is a very aromatic, perennial herb that can be grown in pots or in garden soil.
It needs plenty of water and supply of mineral fertilizers or natural organic fertilizers to spread heavily. It grows better in partial shade. You can easily get new plants from its cuttings or by dividing the root ball.
3. Rosemary
Use it fresh or dried, rosemary is a boon to have in a kitchen garden. Growing rosemary from seeds is slightly difficult as it takes time, quicker way is to buy a potted rosemary plant and multiply it from cuttings.
4. Lavender
You can grow lavender in a variety of climates. Suitable for cool temperate or Mediterranean climates you can also grow this most beautiful herb in subtropical regions.
If you want to multiply it, do it by cuttings of 10 cm. in size in summer.
Also Read: How to Grow Lavender in Tropics
5. Thyme
An easy to grow and less demanding herb, it adapts to all types of soils and is highly resistant to drought. You only need to provide it the sun. After four or five years this low growing plant loses some of its perfume and you may need to replace the old plants. *Grow it as annual in tropics.
6. Chamomile
It likes full sun, with well-drained and permeable soil. It is resistant to drought and once bloomed in the spring, you should cut it to regain its strength. If you collect the flowers, you must do this in its fullness, dry flowers in shade to avoid the exposure to direct sunlight to avoid spoilage.
7. Sage
One of the toughest herbs that prefer full sun situations, especially if you live in a cool climate, always plant sage in a warm place. Sage can be grown in a variety of soil types, well draining and permeable soil with little organic matter is recommended. In subtropical or tropical climatic zones, grow sage in a slightly clayey soil in pots and provide shade in the afternoon. *Overwatering must be avoided.
8. Oregano
This pungent herb is most favorite of many. It is known for centuries throughout the Mediterranean and West Asia, where it grows freely. Growing oregano is not difficult, grow it from seeds, cuttings or buy a few potted plants for your garden in the spring. To ensure the quality, remove 3-4 years old plant and grow new ones.
9. Lemon Verbena
Being a subtropical herb lemon verbena needs a warm environment to thrive. Grow the plant in direct sun. In cooler zones, growing lemon verbena in pots is a better idea to protect it from frost.
10. Rue
Basically, an ornamental medicinal herb but it is also used in recipes though sparingly. It is not much popular but growing this pungent herb is a great way to repel insects from your garden. It grows in USDA Zones 4-9 and requires the sun or partial shade and protection from the wind. It prefers poor and calcareous soils.
11. Basil
Basil must be planted in full sun (6 hours minimum) in a well-drained and moist soil. Pick leaves to encourage the growth and when the plant is young pick the tips for thick bushier shape.
12. Curry Tree
Grow the pungent curry tree plant if you want to enjoy more flavor in your South East Asian delicacies and Indian curries. However, the curry tree does not tolerate frost but it is exceptionally a low maintenance, drought resistant tropical herb. You can grow it in a pot and protect it in winters, it’s easy.
Also Read: How to Grow Curry Tree
13. Bay Leaf Tree
One more small to medium sized tree in our list that is easy to grow. Grow bay leaf tree to add flavor to your soups and stews. This plant may not be hardy to cooler zones below 8 and requires protection in winter. The best way to overwinter this Mediterranean herb is to keep it indoors.
Learn how to grow laurel bay leaf tree
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1
文章
Andy
2017年02月15日
Turmeric is a superfood and has many medicinal benefits. Growing turmeric in pots is not so difficult if you follow this how-to guide.
USDA Zones— 7b – 11, below these zones grow it from spring to fall
Difficulty— Easy to Moderate
Other Names— Curcuma, Curcuma aromatica, Curcuma domestica, Curcumae longa, Curcumae Longae Rhizoma, Curcumin, Curcumine, Curcuminoid, Curcuminoïde, Curcuminoïdes, Curcuminoids, Halada, Haldi, Haridra, Indian Saffron, Nisha, Pian Jiang Huang, Racine de Curcuma, Radix Curcumae, Rajani, Rhizoma Cucurmae Longae, Safran Bourbon, Safran de Batallita, Safran des Indes, Turmeric Root, Yu Jin.
Soil pH— Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is obtained from the underground tubers or rhizomes. Originated in India, it is now cultivated throughout the tropical Asia and in smaller extent in other subtropical and tropical parts of the world.
Turmeric plants look good too, you can grow them outdoors to get a tropical look in your garden.
Where to Find the Rhizome or Turmeric Plant
As you may already know, turmeric grows from the rhizomes like ginger. The easiest way to find them is to search for fresh turmeric rhizome in organic food stores. Also, try searching for it in the local garden center or seed store. Alternatively, you can find a turmeric plant or rhizome online.
Choosing a Pot
For growing turmeric in pots, choose a large pot as this amazing herb can easily exceed the height of 1 m. Pot should be at least 12 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide so that the plant can spread its tubers freely. Plant 1 or 2 rhizomes in such a pot.
Planting Turmeric
The best season to plant turmeric is spring or summer when the temperature starts to stay above 54 F (12 C), but if you are living in tropics, it can be planted throughout the year.
After you have got the rhizome follow the steps below for planting:
Break large rhizome into small pieces, each one should have at least two or three buds.Fill a pot with rich organic soil that is moist and well-drained.Place it about 2 inches (5 cm) below the soil surface, with the buds facing up.Water the pot thoroughly.Requirements for Growing Turmeric in Containers
Growing turmeric is similar to ginger, it requires warm and humid climate to thrive. If you live in a cool temperate climate or if you’re short of space and want to grow your own turmeric rhizomes then learn how to grow turmeric in pots.
Position
The position must be sheltered from the wind. In tropics, the plant is grown in dappled shade and does not like all day long intense direct sun, considering this keep the turmeric plant in partial sun in the warmer zones (USDA Zone 9 and above). However, in temperate climates, provide it full sun for optimum growth, some shade in the afternoon would be okay.
Soil
Plant turmeric in a light and loamy soil that is rich in organic matters. Use well-drained soil otherwise the plant will suffer.
Water
Watering requirements are similar to ginger. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season from spring to fall and do not hesitate to mist the foliage in dry weather to increase the humidity level around the plant.
If growing turmeric in a warmer region, keep watering the plant to maintain moist soil in winters too.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for growing turmeric is between 68-95 F (20-35 C). When the temperature drop below 50 F (10 C) the plant suffers.
Turmeric Plant Care
Overwintering
Since you are growing turmeric in a pot, move the plant inside even in low-light conditions. Because you have to only overwinter the roots. It is important that when you grow turmeric indoors maintain a constant ambient temperature of approximately 64 F (18 C).
Overwintering turmeric on ground
If you’re growing turmeric in true tropical climate then you don’t need to care about winter. But in warm temperate zones (below USDA Zones 9b and down to 7) to overwinter your turmeric plants, reduce watering around the end of fall and when the leaves begin to wilt and turn yellow due to temperature drop cut the plant back to the ground so that it can hibernate. It will perk up again in the spring.
If you want to grow turmeric in cooler areas (below zone 7) then you have to dig up the rhizomes to save them from freezing. For this, dig up the rhizomes and rinse off excess soil from them, snap off rotting pieces. Air dry them and store in a cool and dry place until spring.
Fertilizer
Fertilize turmeric every month with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Application of manure or compost also helps.
Pruning
The turmeric plant should not be pruned. It is sufficient if you remove dried leaves time to time.
Pests and Diseases
Turmeric plant is not prone to any serious disease or pests. However, red spider mites and scales can become a problem. In diseases, it only suffers from rhizome rot and leaf spot. Rot appears when the plant is grown in waterlogged soil. Therefore, it is important to grow turmeric in well-drained soil.
Harvesting
Turmeric plant takes 8 to 10 months to mature. Harvesting is done once the leaves become yellow and stems start to dry. Harvesting turmeric is not difficult, simply dig up the plant entirely, including the roots.
Cut the required amount and then replant the remaining part again to get a new plant growing.
After you cut the rhizome, follow the steps below to process it:
Boil the rhizomes.Carefully remove the skin from rhizomes.Place the bare rhizomes in a tray.Dry them by exposing to sunlight.
When the rhizomes are dry, grind them and store your homemade organic fresh turmeric powder in an air tight container.
Turmeric Uses and Benefits
Turmeric powder has many medicinal properties that have long been known in the India and China. Turmeric is termed as ‘Super Food‘ probably the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It is used as an anti-depressant and plays a protective role against Alzheimer’s disease and against different types of cancers. Turmeric powder is the most prominent ingredient in almost all kind of curry recipes, a pinch of it is used to provide pretty orange color. Its leaves are also useful. Young shoots and flowers are used in Thai cuisines while the leaves are used to flavor the fish in Indonesia.
One thing you did not know and surprise you is the addition of pepper in a diet as it contains piperine helps in the absorption of turmeric. Especially the black pepper, it can tenfold the benefits of this superfood.
USDA Zones— 7b – 11, below these zones grow it from spring to fall
Difficulty— Easy to Moderate
Other Names— Curcuma, Curcuma aromatica, Curcuma domestica, Curcumae longa, Curcumae Longae Rhizoma, Curcumin, Curcumine, Curcuminoid, Curcuminoïde, Curcuminoïdes, Curcuminoids, Halada, Haldi, Haridra, Indian Saffron, Nisha, Pian Jiang Huang, Racine de Curcuma, Radix Curcumae, Rajani, Rhizoma Cucurmae Longae, Safran Bourbon, Safran de Batallita, Safran des Indes, Turmeric Root, Yu Jin.
Soil pH— Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is obtained from the underground tubers or rhizomes. Originated in India, it is now cultivated throughout the tropical Asia and in smaller extent in other subtropical and tropical parts of the world.
Turmeric plants look good too, you can grow them outdoors to get a tropical look in your garden.
Where to Find the Rhizome or Turmeric Plant
As you may already know, turmeric grows from the rhizomes like ginger. The easiest way to find them is to search for fresh turmeric rhizome in organic food stores. Also, try searching for it in the local garden center or seed store. Alternatively, you can find a turmeric plant or rhizome online.
Choosing a Pot
For growing turmeric in pots, choose a large pot as this amazing herb can easily exceed the height of 1 m. Pot should be at least 12 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide so that the plant can spread its tubers freely. Plant 1 or 2 rhizomes in such a pot.
Planting Turmeric
The best season to plant turmeric is spring or summer when the temperature starts to stay above 54 F (12 C), but if you are living in tropics, it can be planted throughout the year.
After you have got the rhizome follow the steps below for planting:
Break large rhizome into small pieces, each one should have at least two or three buds.Fill a pot with rich organic soil that is moist and well-drained.Place it about 2 inches (5 cm) below the soil surface, with the buds facing up.Water the pot thoroughly.Requirements for Growing Turmeric in Containers
Growing turmeric is similar to ginger, it requires warm and humid climate to thrive. If you live in a cool temperate climate or if you’re short of space and want to grow your own turmeric rhizomes then learn how to grow turmeric in pots.
Position
The position must be sheltered from the wind. In tropics, the plant is grown in dappled shade and does not like all day long intense direct sun, considering this keep the turmeric plant in partial sun in the warmer zones (USDA Zone 9 and above). However, in temperate climates, provide it full sun for optimum growth, some shade in the afternoon would be okay.
Soil
Plant turmeric in a light and loamy soil that is rich in organic matters. Use well-drained soil otherwise the plant will suffer.
Water
Watering requirements are similar to ginger. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season from spring to fall and do not hesitate to mist the foliage in dry weather to increase the humidity level around the plant.
If growing turmeric in a warmer region, keep watering the plant to maintain moist soil in winters too.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for growing turmeric is between 68-95 F (20-35 C). When the temperature drop below 50 F (10 C) the plant suffers.
Turmeric Plant Care
Overwintering
Since you are growing turmeric in a pot, move the plant inside even in low-light conditions. Because you have to only overwinter the roots. It is important that when you grow turmeric indoors maintain a constant ambient temperature of approximately 64 F (18 C).
Overwintering turmeric on ground
If you’re growing turmeric in true tropical climate then you don’t need to care about winter. But in warm temperate zones (below USDA Zones 9b and down to 7) to overwinter your turmeric plants, reduce watering around the end of fall and when the leaves begin to wilt and turn yellow due to temperature drop cut the plant back to the ground so that it can hibernate. It will perk up again in the spring.
If you want to grow turmeric in cooler areas (below zone 7) then you have to dig up the rhizomes to save them from freezing. For this, dig up the rhizomes and rinse off excess soil from them, snap off rotting pieces. Air dry them and store in a cool and dry place until spring.
Fertilizer
Fertilize turmeric every month with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Application of manure or compost also helps.
Pruning
The turmeric plant should not be pruned. It is sufficient if you remove dried leaves time to time.
Pests and Diseases
Turmeric plant is not prone to any serious disease or pests. However, red spider mites and scales can become a problem. In diseases, it only suffers from rhizome rot and leaf spot. Rot appears when the plant is grown in waterlogged soil. Therefore, it is important to grow turmeric in well-drained soil.
Harvesting
Turmeric plant takes 8 to 10 months to mature. Harvesting is done once the leaves become yellow and stems start to dry. Harvesting turmeric is not difficult, simply dig up the plant entirely, including the roots.
Cut the required amount and then replant the remaining part again to get a new plant growing.
After you cut the rhizome, follow the steps below to process it:
Boil the rhizomes.Carefully remove the skin from rhizomes.Place the bare rhizomes in a tray.Dry them by exposing to sunlight.
When the rhizomes are dry, grind them and store your homemade organic fresh turmeric powder in an air tight container.
Turmeric Uses and Benefits
Turmeric powder has many medicinal properties that have long been known in the India and China. Turmeric is termed as ‘Super Food‘ probably the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It is used as an anti-depressant and plays a protective role against Alzheimer’s disease and against different types of cancers. Turmeric powder is the most prominent ingredient in almost all kind of curry recipes, a pinch of it is used to provide pretty orange color. Its leaves are also useful. Young shoots and flowers are used in Thai cuisines while the leaves are used to flavor the fish in Indonesia.
One thing you did not know and surprise you is the addition of pepper in a diet as it contains piperine helps in the absorption of turmeric. Especially the black pepper, it can tenfold the benefits of this superfood.
4
1
文章
Andy
2017年02月15日
Fragrant, fast-growing, and one of the most used culinary herbs– Mint can be grown indoors. Growing mint indoors is easy and doesn’t require many efforts!
Herbs can be grown indoors and mint is one of them. However, mint (or any other herb) growing indoors can’t grow as vigorously as outdoors. Still, you can enjoy those freshly picked leaves year-round, even in winters!
Growing Mint in Water
It is also possible, to grow mint in water all you need to do is to take tip cuttings of about 5-6 inches length from an established mint plant. Remove the bottom leaves and place the cuttings in a water-filled glass or bottle. Keep the bottle in a cool spot that is bright and receives indirect light. Keep changing the water every other day. The cutting will develop a few leaves and last for several days, you can either plant it in a container filled with soil or use it.
Requirements For Growing Mint Indoors
Growing mint indoors is rewarding, it complements vegetables, salads, yogurt, and meat and freshly picked leaves taste so great. Also, if you want to make an Indoor Herb Garden, mint is the best herb, to begin with.
There are about 600 mint species to choose from, grow which one you like most!
There are a few simple needs you need to care about– use a medium sized pot (2-3 gallon would be fine) when growing mint in containers, a wide planter is good as mint spread through runners and it’ll give space to plant to cover.
Location
Mint can tolerate some shade outside but it needs a minimum 3-4 hour of direct sunlight to grow well. Choose a location where this can receive that much sun and proper air circulation. Near a window or door, if you can keep it on a windowsill or on a balcony it would be best!
Also Read: Windowsill Herb Garden
Soil
Quality potting mix that is light and soilless is what you need to grow mint indoors. You can also make it yourself:
Combine 4-6 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite and 1 part vermiculite. If adding nutrients, blend 1/2 cup each bone meal, oyster shell lime (raises pH) and cottonseed meal/canola meal per 8 gallons of potting mix.ORFollow this basic recipe– Add 1 part peat moss or coco peat, 1 part perlite (sand if you don’t have access to perlite), 1 part compost, 1 part sterile garden soil (optional).Water
Mint loves moist soil, remember, moist soil not overly wet. You should be careful (especially in winter) with watering and don’t soak the plant both in the morning and evening to pamper it. Just keep the plant well watered and slightly moist. Both underwatering and overwatering should be avoided.
Fertilizer
Herbs growing indoors or anywhere shouldn’t be fertilized heavily or else they lose flavor. Feeding the mint plant occasionally using water-soluble all-purpose fertilizer should be enough. You can also mulch the top layer of the pot with compost or manure.
How to Care for Indoor Mint Plant
Pinching and Pruning
Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage the plant to grow more branches and become bushier. Prune off the lanky, spindly and dried branches time to time to keep the plant in shape.
Temperature
Mint loves moderate temperature, it should be saved from cold drafts in temperates. If you live in a warm tropical climate keep it away from hot and dry air, also, you’ll need to water the plant regularly. The indoor temperature should be around at least 65-70 F (18-21 C) in day and 55-60 F (13-15 C) in the night.
Harvest
Harvesting mint is easy. The best method is picking when you need. Pick off the sprigs or leaves just when you need whether you’re using them for dessert or lunch. Never let the flowers bloom and pinch off once you see them.
Herbs can be grown indoors and mint is one of them. However, mint (or any other herb) growing indoors can’t grow as vigorously as outdoors. Still, you can enjoy those freshly picked leaves year-round, even in winters!
Growing Mint in Water
It is also possible, to grow mint in water all you need to do is to take tip cuttings of about 5-6 inches length from an established mint plant. Remove the bottom leaves and place the cuttings in a water-filled glass or bottle. Keep the bottle in a cool spot that is bright and receives indirect light. Keep changing the water every other day. The cutting will develop a few leaves and last for several days, you can either plant it in a container filled with soil or use it.
Requirements For Growing Mint Indoors
Growing mint indoors is rewarding, it complements vegetables, salads, yogurt, and meat and freshly picked leaves taste so great. Also, if you want to make an Indoor Herb Garden, mint is the best herb, to begin with.
There are about 600 mint species to choose from, grow which one you like most!
There are a few simple needs you need to care about– use a medium sized pot (2-3 gallon would be fine) when growing mint in containers, a wide planter is good as mint spread through runners and it’ll give space to plant to cover.
Location
Mint can tolerate some shade outside but it needs a minimum 3-4 hour of direct sunlight to grow well. Choose a location where this can receive that much sun and proper air circulation. Near a window or door, if you can keep it on a windowsill or on a balcony it would be best!
Also Read: Windowsill Herb Garden
Soil
Quality potting mix that is light and soilless is what you need to grow mint indoors. You can also make it yourself:
Combine 4-6 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite and 1 part vermiculite. If adding nutrients, blend 1/2 cup each bone meal, oyster shell lime (raises pH) and cottonseed meal/canola meal per 8 gallons of potting mix.ORFollow this basic recipe– Add 1 part peat moss or coco peat, 1 part perlite (sand if you don’t have access to perlite), 1 part compost, 1 part sterile garden soil (optional).Water
Mint loves moist soil, remember, moist soil not overly wet. You should be careful (especially in winter) with watering and don’t soak the plant both in the morning and evening to pamper it. Just keep the plant well watered and slightly moist. Both underwatering and overwatering should be avoided.
Fertilizer
Herbs growing indoors or anywhere shouldn’t be fertilized heavily or else they lose flavor. Feeding the mint plant occasionally using water-soluble all-purpose fertilizer should be enough. You can also mulch the top layer of the pot with compost or manure.
How to Care for Indoor Mint Plant
Pinching and Pruning
Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage the plant to grow more branches and become bushier. Prune off the lanky, spindly and dried branches time to time to keep the plant in shape.
Temperature
Mint loves moderate temperature, it should be saved from cold drafts in temperates. If you live in a warm tropical climate keep it away from hot and dry air, also, you’ll need to water the plant regularly. The indoor temperature should be around at least 65-70 F (18-21 C) in day and 55-60 F (13-15 C) in the night.
Harvest
Harvesting mint is easy. The best method is picking when you need. Pick off the sprigs or leaves just when you need whether you’re using them for dessert or lunch. Never let the flowers bloom and pinch off once you see them.
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Andy：@Katie Marie Thank you for reading my article!😃
Katie Marie：take two
文章
stone
2016年12月29日
#suncculents #winter Succulents are such a popular and easy to care for plant these days.However, a freeze thaw / climate and snow generally is not a succulents best friend.
1. Watering
Pour water into the top of the succulent container until it drains out the bottom. Water the succulents deeply but less often in the winter. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
2. Sunlight
Succulents survive with indirect light during the winter.Place the dormant succulent in an area with at least three to four hours of bright light.Usually try to do this a couple of days a week during winter.
3. Temperature
When the temperature outdoors starts to cool below 60 degrees Fahrenheit start tapering off with watering.Bring your succulents inside when outside temps hit 40 degrees. Keep the temperature of the room the succulents are in around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter. Many succulents such as aeoniums and living stones do not tolerate colder temperatures.
4. Check frequently for bugs
I've heard through other gardeners that 3 parts rubbing alcohol and 1 part water can be wiped onto any succulent that may develop aphids over winter.
You can use a cotton ball or a soft paper towel to apply it and make sure to check underneath the leaves. Also make sure to separate that plant from others until the aphids are completely gone.
5. Feeding
Feed the succulents one last time at the end of summer. Succulents only need diluted fertilizer while they are actively growing. Stop feeding when the plants stop growing for the year and go dormant, which occurs when the temperatures drop and the light level falls. Too much fertilizer causes succulents to develop soft leaves, which are prone to rot.
1. Watering
Pour water into the top of the succulent container until it drains out the bottom. Water the succulents deeply but less often in the winter. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
2. Sunlight
Succulents survive with indirect light during the winter.Place the dormant succulent in an area with at least three to four hours of bright light.Usually try to do this a couple of days a week during winter.
3. Temperature
When the temperature outdoors starts to cool below 60 degrees Fahrenheit start tapering off with watering.Bring your succulents inside when outside temps hit 40 degrees. Keep the temperature of the room the succulents are in around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter. Many succulents such as aeoniums and living stones do not tolerate colder temperatures.
4. Check frequently for bugs
I've heard through other gardeners that 3 parts rubbing alcohol and 1 part water can be wiped onto any succulent that may develop aphids over winter.
You can use a cotton ball or a soft paper towel to apply it and make sure to check underneath the leaves. Also make sure to separate that plant from others until the aphids are completely gone.
5. Feeding
Feed the succulents one last time at the end of summer. Succulents only need diluted fertilizer while they are actively growing. Stop feeding when the plants stop growing for the year and go dormant, which occurs when the temperatures drop and the light level falls. Too much fertilizer causes succulents to develop soft leaves, which are prone to rot.
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成长记
Plants Encyclopdias
2016年08月17日
Name: Bulbous Air Plant
Latin: Tillandsia bulbosa
Origin: South America
Plant height: 5 - 15 cm
Reproduction: #Layering
Difficulty level: #Easy
Tags: #SouthAmerica #Tillandsiabulbosa
Latin: Tillandsia bulbosa
Origin: South America
Plant height: 5 - 15 cm
Reproduction: #Layering
Difficulty level: #Easy
Tags: #SouthAmerica #Tillandsiabulbosa
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