These things are perfect for summer cookouts where you need to keep insects away from a large group of people. Next time, skip the bug spray and light a candle that’ll keep the bugs at bay while making the party smell great in the process. Check out the images below to learn how you can… Read More

The month of May is a time when the weather can either turn your garden into an Eden, or a wasteland. Be aware of the weather forecasts, trends and warnings. It’s still not too late to fertilize your trees and shrubs. Use a Rhododendron or Evergreen type of plant food to feed evergreens and other acid loving… Read More

At long last, spring has arrived! (or has it?) As you look out upon your garden, does the nagging question of “where do I even begin” sound familiar? There is so much to do in every corner of the yard this month that it is difficult to know where to start. In my opinion, the first… Read More

Now summer is here and the temperature is rising high. We have to make sure our gardens and plants are well protected. Here are some great tips to get you started: KEEP YOUR POTS COOL Potted plants, especially those in terracotta pots, are vulnerable to overheating. Lightly mulch and, where possible, position them out of… Read More

Looking for a recipe to keep your potted plants well fed and growing strong all season long, indoors or out. Here’s how to make it: In a gallon milk jug, mix 1 tablespoon of 15-30-13 fertilizer, 1/4 teaspoon of instant tea granules and 1/2 teaspoon each of corn syrup, unflavored gelatin, whiskey (any kind will… Read More

Powdery mildew thrives in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees. Dry, shady conditions are ideal, as are areas with poor air circulation. Planting disease resistant cultivars and making sure you allow for good air flow are two ways to guard against powdery mildew. Inspect plants regularly during warm, dry conditions, and remove any leaves that show signs of infection.… Read More

Gnats, those tiny, pesky flying insects sometimes found indoors, can be a bit of a nuisance in numbers. These creatures are often found around houseplants, where their larvae grow within potting materials. While they only live a short time — just over a week — a female fungus gnat can lay up to 200 eggs… Read More

After working hard in the garden, it’s hard to get all that dirt off your hands. Here is a wonderful natural recipe right out of your kitchen. Give your hands a mini spa and sit down and relax for the rest of the day. Combine all of the ingredients into a jar or any airtight… Read More

Your flowers and vegetables will wake up rarin’ to grow in the spring if you give them some extra TLC in the fall. Here’s all there is to it: At the end of the growing season, cover all of your garden beds with thick layers of organic mulch. Then serve up this night cap: Mix… Read More

Houseplants need lots of humidity for good growth. So in the winter, when the heat is on and the air is dry, mist-spray your leafy plants at least every other day early in the morning. Use weak tea water, which you can make by soaking a used tea bag and 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid… Read More