Bees. They pollinate wildflowers and crops, contributing to biodiversity as well as human food supplies, and produce the sweet honey we love to stir into tea or drizzle on warm buttermilk biscuits. Although we may fear their sting, there is far more to love about bees. The Republic of Slovenia recognized the importance of bees …
Gardening
Every year, the arrival of spring whispers a promise of warmer days and greener gardens. However, there is always one last late-season cold snap that threatens to ruin all of your hard work in the garden overnight. The key to avoiding this as much as you can is to understand your region’s last frost date. …
Although citrus trees seem reserved for the southern part of the U.S., where temperatures remain mild throughout the winter, even those who see snow in the colder months can grow a lemon tree. All it takes is a large pot and proper care. And with Plant a Lemon Tree Day today (May 17), now is …
As the ground starts warming up in the bright spring sunshine, it is time to prepare your garden plot. Early spring preparations are the foundation for a long and bountiful growing season. While getting your garden ready for spring may be backbreaking, these steps will help produce a healthy garden. As a long-time gardener, I’ve …
As winter fades and spring peeks around the corner, many gardeners feel the itch to get planting. But before you rush out and start filling every available space with seedlings, take a breath. As TikTok gardener Chloe Plumstead wisely reminds us, “It’s not a race, and you don’t have to be in a rush.” March …
Winter sowing is a delightful and efficient way to jump-start your garden, even when snow blankets the ground. In a recent video, MegGrowsPlants demonstrates how easy it is to create a snug environment for seeds to sprout, giving gardeners a head start on cold-tolerant plants. Understanding Winter Sowing Winter sowing involves planting seeds outdoors during …
Winter can be brutal on plants that aren’t built for the cold. But what about those unexpected cold snaps in early fall or late spring? A sudden drop in temperature can catch gardeners off guard, damaging plants that aren’t ready for freezing conditions. If you have perennials, young shrubs, or delicate flowers that don’t handle …
Plants need water to survive, but did you know there are ways to garden where you might not need so much of it? If you’re conscious about conserving water, especially if you live in an area prone to droughts where every drop counts, maximizing absorption is key. But how does one go about that? With …
Have you ever looked at your plants in horror and thought, “What is THAT?” Chances are, it’s some sort of pest. But not all pests are created equal. Understanding the heroes and villains of your garden is essential to the well-being of your crops, plants, and garden as a whole. As such, it’s important to know …
Ferry-Morse, one of the world’s largest seed companies, has recently released a new collection of bulk flower and wildflower mixes just in time for spring. This line features 50 varieties of 1-pound bags containing seed mixes of enchanting wildflowers and grass alternatives. “Whether you’re looking for a tranquil oasis or a lively burst of color, …