Most gardeners face pest issues from time to time, with some not being able to identify or salvage the problem. There are many plant-loving insects, but some do more damage than good. We have a few ideas on how to identify and deal with these pests. Understanding garden pests For insects to be deemed pests, they need to do significant damage to your plant. Although a lot of insects eat plants, most of them do not cause any particular damage. These pests may not be life-threatening but they may ruin the aesthetic of the plant. As a gardener, you need to understand that gardens are a complex eco ..read more

Winter in bloom! Get creative and plant up a winter hanging basket to lift your spirits as temperatures drop. This fun and easy D.I.Y winter hanging baskets are a great addition to your space and makes for a great way to keep busy indoors. Fill your home with blooming D.I.Y Winter hanging baskets Steps: Select a hanging basket that is the appropriate size for the number of plants you want to grow. It should have drainage holes and a hook or chain for hanging. Choose winter annuals that have similar light and water requirements to plant in the same container. Good options for winter hanging ba ..read more

Neem oil might just be the green thumb’s best friend. Made from the seeds of the neem tree, this natural pesticide packs a punch against over 200 types of insect pests and various plant diseases. Let’s dive into what neem oil is all about and how you can use it to keep your garden thriving. What is neem oil? Neem oil is a natural pesticide made from oil that is pressed from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica). It’s like a superhero, combating garden pests and diseases while also serving medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Plus, it’s eco-friendly! How neem oil works The secret weapon i ..read more

Choosing the right harvest season is very important when harvesting oranges. These citrus fruits are usually best ripe and perfect in the winter months. Choose the right time to harvest Winter is often associated with citrus fruits, which provide a sweet, vitamin C-packed snack. If you live in a temperate climate where oranges can grow, you may even be able to pick your oranges from your backyard! However, before you begin harvesting, the fruit must be ripe. Oranges only ripen on the tree, so picking them too early can result in unripe fruit that won’t continue to ripen once picked. Image Cre ..read more

Winter propagation does take a bit longer than they do in summer. If you’re propagating in winter, your cuttings will need protection from the elements and some moisture. When deciding to propagate, keep the cuttings well-lit and frost-free. We have a simple guide to follow for winter propagation. Plants to propagate in winter Arborvitae Trees The Arborvitae Tree can be successfully rooted over the winter but the rooting tends to be slower. The advantage of propagating the arborvitae tree in winter is that they need less maintenance. However, y ..read more

The emergence of mushrooms can often add a whimsical touch to your garden. Yet, beneath their charming facade, mushrooms on trees can sometimes signify trouble. While mushrooms sprouting in lawns might signal healthy soil teeming with organic richness, their appearance at the base of trees may narrate a different story altogether. Understanding which mushrooms signal bad news Before we delve into the nuances, let’s decipher the language of these fungal inhabitants. Not all mushrooms are harbingers of doom; some merely coexist with vibrant roots but certain varieties, like the honey fungus, can ..read more

Houseplants bring freshness and vitality to any home, but droopy leaves and unhappy stems can be a real downer. Even if you’re doing everything by the book—adjusting sunlight, timing waterings—your plants might still be suffering because of the soil. There’s a big difference between potting soil and potting mix, and getting it right can be the key to your plant’s happiness. What exactly is potting soil? Potting soil is what you might picture when you think of traditional soil—it’s heavy, dense, and meant for outdoor use. It’s packed with all the nutrients plants need, but it’s not great at dra ..read more

Neem, also known as Azadirachta indica is a versatile plant, native to tropical nations and is valued for its many benefits and uses. Take advantage of its widely appreciated use. Why not grow your one in your garden? Image Credit: Pexels Growing your neem tree Although neem trees thrive in hot, arid tropical climates, they can also be grown in pots. Preparing neem seeds for planting is a straightforward process that doesn’t require much effort. Whether you choose to grow the plant from seeds or cuttings, it’s essential to maintain the temperature at around 20 degree ..read more

1. Know Your Climate Zone Understanding your climate zone is pivotal when learning how to choose the right plants for your garden. This knowledge dictates which plants are likely to thrive in your geographical area. Always check plant tags for zone information to guide your selections effectively. Pexels 2. Evaluate Sun Exposure The amount of sunlight your garden receives is critical to plant health. Assess whether your garden gets full, partial, or full sun, and choose plants that will thrive under these conditions. Full sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight Partial shade: 3-6 hours of direct su ..read more

Gardening is more than just a way to beautify your outdoor space; it’s an opportunity to create a personal retreat where you can relax and reconnect with nature. However, a budget-friendly garden makeover doesn’t have to involve extravagant expenses. With a little ingenuity and some do-it-yourself spirit, you can revitalize your garden affordably. From repurposing old materials to introducing strategic planting, each step can significantly enhance your garden’s appeal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to organize, build, or simply spruce up your garden, here are ten budget-frie ..read more