Tips And Advice For Gardeners – Find out about the latest trends and what you need to know to become a successful gardener.

By Jimmy – Professional Landscaper

When you step into a beautiful garden, the most captivating element is often the trees. Whether you’re after lush shade, year-round privacy, or a stunning display of color, choosing the right tree for your landscape can completely transform your outdoor space. As a professional landscaper, I’ve seen firsthand how carefully selected trees bring comfort, style, and value to any property.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the best trees to plant for shade, privacy, and beauty—plus some insider tips to ensure they thrive for years to come.

Why Trees Matter in the Landscape

Trees are much more than just green backdrops. They offer vital environmental benefits by cooling our yards, supporting wildlife, and improving air quality. In urban settings, they act as natural air conditioners, lower noise, and even increase property values. But for homeowners, trees provide three primary landscaping functions:

Shade: Creating cool retreats in the hottest months.
Privacy: Screening out neighbors or unsightly views.
Beauty: Adding interest with foliage, flowers, and seasonal changes.

The trick is to choose the right species for your location, climate, and landscape goals.

The Best Trees for Shade

1. Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)

With its spectacular purple blooms in late spring and delicate, fern-like foliage, the Jacaranda is a favourite across Australia. Its broad, spreading canopy provides excellent shade, making it ideal for large backyards and street plantings.

2. Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)

Fast-growing and drought-tolerant, the Chinese Elm offers dense, cool shade through its wide, arching branches. Its attractive bark and lush green leaves make it a top choice for suburban gardens.

3. Lilly Pilly (Syzygium smithii and cultivars)

While often grown as a hedge, Lilly Pillies can develop into small, shady trees. Their evergreen foliage and fluffy white flowers followed by colourful berries bring year-round interest to your garden.

4. Plane Tree (Platanus x acerifolia)

Commonly used in parks and along boulevards, Plane Trees offer a broad canopy and are well-suited to larger properties. Their resilience to pollution and urban stress makes them a reliable shade option.

The Best Trees for Privacy

1. Magnolia ‘Little Gem’ (Magnolia grandiflora)

This compact evergreen magnolia is perfect for creating privacy screens. Its glossy leaves and large white flowers provide both a barrier and a beautiful garden focal point.

2. Photinia (Photinia robusta)

A fast-growing evergreen with striking red new growth, Photinia makes an excellent screening tree. Plant them close together for a dense hedge that provides both privacy and colour.

3. Bay Tree (Laurus nobilis)

Ideal for smaller spaces, the Bay Tree is easy to shape and maintain as a tall hedge or small tree. It also gives you fragrant leaves for cooking!

4. Water Gum (Tristaniopsis laurina)

Native to Australia, the Water Gum is a hardy, evergreen tree with attractive bark and shiny leaves. It’s well-suited for privacy planting along boundaries.

The Best Trees for Beauty

1. Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

Known for its stunning summer flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white, Crepe Myrtle also boasts beautiful bark and autumn foliage. It’s a show-stopper in any garden.

2. Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia)

One of Australia’s most striking native trees, the Flowering Gum dazzles with bold red, orange, or pink blooms that attract birds and pollinators.

3. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

Loved for its delicate, lacy leaves and vibrant autumn colours, the Japanese Maple is perfect for small gardens or as a focal point in shaded areas.

4. Golden Robinia (Robinia pseudoacacia ‘Frisia’)

This tree’s lime-green foliage turns a brilliant gold, creating a stunning contrast in any garden. It’s also fast-growing and hardy.

Tips for Planting and Growing Healthy Trees

Pick the Right Spot: Consider the mature size of your chosen tree and ensure it has enough space—above and below ground.
Prepare the Soil: Good soil is essential for healthy roots. Enrich the planting area with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Mulch and Water: Keep young trees well-watered and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Feed for Growth: Support robust growth and vibrant foliage with organic fertilizers for plants. These not only nourish your trees naturally but also improve soil health and reduce chemical run-off, which is better for the environment and your garden’s ecosystem.

Creating Your Ideal Garden Retreat

Adding the right tree can change the feel of your whole garden—whether you want a cool, shady spot to relax, a leafy green screen for privacy, or a burst of seasonal colour that draws the eye. As with all landscaping, a little planning goes a long way. Think about what you want from your outdoor space and choose trees that suit your climate, soil, and lifestyle.…

Water-Wise Gardening Tips for Australian Gardens

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Australia’s climate can be hot and dry, making it essential to create a water-wise garden. Water-wise gardening reduces water use while keeping your plants healthy. Here are some practical tips to help you create a water-efficient garden.

1. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants

Drought-tolerant plants need less water to thrive. Choose native plants that are adapted to Australia’s climate. These plants can survive with minimal water and will reduce your overall water use.

2. Use Mulch

Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil. It keeps the soil cool and reduces evaporation. Apply a thick layer of mulch around your plants to keep them hydrated for longer.

3. Water Early in the Morning

Water your plants early in the morning to minimize evaporation. This allows the water to soak into the soil before the heat of the day. Avoid watering in the afternoon or evening, as this can promote fungal growth.

4. Install Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the roots of your plants. This method is more efficient than sprinklers, as it reduces water waste. Set your irrigation system to water slowly and deeply to encourage deep root growth.

5. Group Plants by Water Needs

Plant species with similar water requirements together. This way, you can water each group more efficiently, without over-watering some plants and under-watering others.

6. Improve Soil Quality

Healthy soil retains moisture better. Add organic matter, like compost, to improve your soil’s ability to hold water. Well-drained soil also prevents waterlogging, which can damage your plants.

7. Choose the Right Lawn

Lawns use a lot of water, especially in hot climates. If you want a lawn, choose drought-resistant grass varieties. Alternatively, consider replacing some or all of your lawn with ground covers that need less water.

8. Harvest Rainwater

Collect rainwater using a rainwater tank. This water is free and can be used to irrigate your garden. Installing a rainwater harvesting system helps reduce your reliance on tap water.

9. Shade Plants with Garden Structures

Use garden structures like pergolas or shade cloth to protect plants from the harsh sun. This can reduce water loss and help keep plants hydrated.

10. Monitor Your Watering

Check your garden regularly to ensure it isn’t overwatered or underwatered. Adjust your watering schedule according to the weather conditions. During cooler months, you may not need to water as much.

By implementing these water-wise gardening tips, you can create a more sustainable garden that thrives in Australia’s climate. Not only will this reduce your water usage, but it will also help your garden stay healthy and vibrant.

…

Green Grass Goals: Tackling Dry Patches in Your Lawn

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Are dry, unsightly patches ruining the lush green look of your lawn?

We explore the common causes of dry patches in your lawn, including lack of water, soil compaction, nutrient deficiency, and thatch build-up.
Learn how to identify these problem areas through discolouration, wilting, and slow growth.
Discover preventive measures such as proper watering techniques, aeration, fertilisation, and thatch removal.
Find out how to repair dry patches by overseeding, topdressing, and amending soil.

With tips on maintaining a healthy lawn through regular maintenance, proper mowing techniques, and consistent watering, you’ll soon be on your way to achieving your green grass goals.

What Causes Dry Patches in Your Lawn?

Various factors, including insufficient water, soil compaction, nutrient deficiency, and the accumulation of thatch, can contribute to dry patches in your lawn. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective lawn care and maintenance.

When your lawn lacks water, it can lead to dry patches due to dehydration of the grass. This affects the health of the grass by stunting its growth and making it more susceptible to diseases.

Soil compaction, on the other hand, restricts root growth and water absorption, resulting in uneven moisture distribution and creating dry spots.

Nutrient deficiency can manifest as yellowing or browning of the grass, weakening its overall structure and resilience.

Thatch build-up inhibits water penetration and air circulation, causing drought stress in certain areas. By recognising these signs and addressing the underlying issues promptly, you can restore the vitality and lushness of your lawn.

Lack of Water

One of the primary reasons for dry patches in your lawn is the lack of adequate water supply. Insufficient watering can lead to dehydration of the grass, resulting in patchy areas and stunted growth.

Proper watering practices are crucial in maintaining a lush and healthy lawn. To identify signs of water deficiency, look for grass blades turning dull bluish-green, wilting, or curling at the edges.

To prevent dry patches, aim to water deeply but infrequently, encouraging deep root growth. Early mornings provide the optimal window for watering your lawn, allowing the grass to absorb moisture before daytime heat evaporates it. It’s important to avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and related issues.

Soil Compaction

Soil compaction can restrict root growth and limit the grass’s absorption of essential nutrients and water, leading to the formation of dry patches. Addressing soil compaction is vital for maintaining a healthy lawn.

Aeration is a key technique for alleviating soil compaction and promoting healthy grass growth. By perforating the soil with small holes, aeration allows roots to access nutrients, water, and air more effectively.

Overseeding can help fill in bare spots caused by dry patches, promoting a denser and healthier lawn. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can enhance its structure and alleviate compaction, ensuring your lawn maintains its lushness and vibrancy throughout the growing season.

Nutrient Deficiency

Nutrient deficiency, especially in essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to dry patches. Proper fertilisation is key to addressing this issue.

Nitrogen is crucial for leafy growth, while phosphorus aids in root development, and potassium fortifies the plant against diseases and stress. When selecting fertilisers, consider options like slow-release or organic varieties for a steady nutrient supply. Apply fertilisers in the early spring to kickstart growth and again in late spring to sustain it through summer. Conduct soil tests to determine nutrient deficiencies and adjust fertiliser application rates to ensure optimal nutrient levels for a lush, vibrant green lawn.

Thatch Build-up

Thatch build-up, a layer of dead grass and roots, can impede water, air, and nutrients from reaching the soil and grassroots, resulting in dry patches. Regular thatch removal is essential for maintaining a green and healthy lawn.

When thatch accumulates excessively, it can create a thick barrier that hinders water penetration, leading to shallow root systems and increased vulnerability to drought stress. Over time, this can contribute to the formation of unsightly dry patches on the lawn.

To identify thatch build-up, look for spongy areas between the grass blades and soil and difficulty absorbing water. To prevent thatch accumulation, aerating the soil regularly and scarifying using specialised tools can help improve nutrient intake and promote healthier grass growth. Ensuring proper watering and mowing practices can also help prevent thatch build-up and maintain a lush green lawn.

How to Identify Dry Patches in Your Lawn?

Identifying dry patches in your lawn is crucial for timely intervention and effective restoration. Common signs include discolouration, wilting, and slow growth in specific grass areas.

These dry patches can manifest in various forms, such as brown or yellowish spots, thinner grass coverage, or areas that feel dry to the touch compared to the rest of the lawn. Factors like inadequate watering, compacted soil, excessive thatch build-up, or poor drainage often cause these issues.

To address dry patches, solutions may involve:

Adjusting your watering schedule.
Aerating the soil to improve airflow.
Scarifying to allow better water penetration.
Even overseeing the affected areas for grass rejuvenation.

Discolouration

Discolouration, such …

Organic Liquid fertilisers: What You Need to Know

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What are organic liquid fertilisers?

Organic liquid fertilisers are made from natural, organic materials that can be easily broken down and absorbed by plants. They provide a range of nutrients that are essential for plant growth and can be used on a variety of plants.

Organic liquid fertilisers are an excellent way to give your plants the nutrients they need without using synthetic chemicals. They are also more environmentally friendly than synthetic fertilisers, as they do not release harmful toxins into the soil or water.

There are many different types of organic liquid fertilisers available, so you can find one that is best suited for your plants. You can also make your own organic liquid fertilizer at home using simple ingredients like manure, compost, and water.

What are the types of organic liquid fertilisers?

Organic liquid fertilizer can be made from a variety of sources, including manure, compost, and plant extracts. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Manure: Manure is a great source of organic matter and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for liquid fertilizer.

2. Compost: Compost can also be used to make liquid fertilizer. It is a great source of nutrients and organic matter, and can help improve soil health.

3. Plant Extracts: Plant extracts, such as alfalfa extract or kelp extract, are also good sources of nutrients and organic matter.

4. Worm Castings: Worm castings are an excellent source of nutrients and organic matter, and can be used to make liquid fertilizer.

5. Bloodmeal: Bloodmeal is a great source of nitrogen, making it an excellent choice for liquid fertilizer.

6. Bonemeal: Bonemeal is a great source of phosphorus, making it an excellent choice for liquid fertilizer.

7. Fish Emulsion: Fish emulsion is a great source of nitrogen and other nutrients, making it an excellent choice for liquid fertilizer.

8. Seaweed Extract: Seaweed extract is a great source of nutrients and organic matter, and can be used to make liquid fertilizer.

How to use organic liquid fertilisers properly for my plants?

Organic liquid fertilisers are an excellent way to give your plants the nutrients they need. However, it is important to use them properly in order to avoid over-fertilizing or harming your plants. Here are some tips on how and when to use organic liquid fertilisers:

Always mix the fertilizer with water according to the instructions on the package.
Apply the fertilizer to your plants at the base of the plant, taking care to avoid the leaves.
The best time to apply organic liquid fertilizer is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not as strong.
Be sure to water your plants after applying the fertilizer, as this will help the nutrients to be absorbed.
Only fertilize your plants when they are actively growing. Over-fertilizing can harm your plants.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need without harming them.

What are the benefits of organic liquid fertilisers?

Organic liquid fertilisers are a great way to improve the quality of your soil without the use of harsh chemicals. They are also more efficient in their delivery of nutrients to your plants, which results in healthier plants that are better able to withstand pests and disease. Here are just a few of the benefits of using organic liquid fertilisers:

1. Improved Soil Quality

Organic liquid fertilisers help to improve the quality of your soil by adding essential nutrients that are often lacking in traditional chemical fertilisers. This results in healthier soil that is better able to support plant growth.

2. Enhanced Plant Growth

Organic liquid fertilisers are more efficient in their delivery of nutrients to plants, which results in healthier plants that are better able to withstand pests and diseases.

3. Reduced Environmental Impact

Organic liquid fertilisers have a reduced environmental impact when compared to traditional chemical fertilisers. This is due to the fact that they do not release harmful chemicals into the environment.

4. Cost-Effective

Organic liquid fertilisers are often more cost-effective than traditional chemical fertilisers, due to the fact that they are more efficient in their delivery of nutrients. This means that you will need to use less fertilizer overall, which will save you money in the long run.

Are there risks or disadvantages to using organic liquid fertilisers?

Organic liquid fertilizer can be a great way to give your plants the nutrients they need. However, there are some disadvantages to using it.

One of the biggest disadvantages of using organic liquid fertilizer is that it can attract pests. If you’re not careful, you could end up with more pests than you started with! Another disadvantage is that organic liquid fertilizer can contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. If you use too much, it could damage your plants.

While organic liquid fertilizer has its risks, it also has some great benefits. It’s a great way to give your plants the nutrients they need without using harmful chemicals. It’s also relatively inexpensive and easy to find.

If you’re thinking about using organic liquid fertilizer, be sure to do your research first. …

How Do You Get Rid of Large Tree Branches?

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| Garden Care

There are a few different ways you can get rid of large tree branches that are causing problems. You can either cut them down yourself or hire a tree removal company to do it for you.

Preparation

Make sure you have the proper safety equipment if you decide to cut down the branches yourself. This includes gloves, goggles, and a helmet. You will also need to have a saw that is capable of cutting through thick branches.

Trimming heavy tree branches requires special care. In some cases, trimming a tree branch may interfere with the natural healing response of the tree. While this might be tricky, it is no different than trimming a dead tree.

When a wound occurs on a tree, the trees form special tissue called callous. This protects the injured area from decay and disease. If you trim too much of the tree, it can actually prevent that callous from forming and leave the tree vulnerable to decay and disease.

If possible, try to avoid cutting large branches without a professional’s help. Large branches are more difficult to cut safely, and they can fall unpredictably if not handled properly. Branch management in Newcastle is a company we can recommend. But if you do need to remove a large branch on your own, it is important that you follow proper safety precautions and use tools designed for this type of work.

The first step in removing dead limbs is assessing whether they are alive or dead. The latter is a better option if you’ve decided to save a precious tree with sentimental value. If the tree’s limbs are dead, the whole tree may be dead. If you’re not sure, consult a certified arborist. In addition to removing dead limbs, you should also remove any branches that are crossing each other.

If you want to prevent a diseased tree from spreading, consider removing the entire thing. Disease can spread from tree to tree very quickly, and while professionals can help slow or stop the spread of disease, your best bet is to remove the infected trees as soon as possible.

Cutting the Branches

Ultimately, there are several different methods for getting rid of large tree branches. You may be able to do it yourself with proper safety precautions and tools, or you may need to hire a professional arborist or tree removal company to get the job done safely and effectively. No matter what approach you choose, make sure that you remain vigilant about monitoring the health of your remaining trees after the work is completed.

When cutting a tree branch, be sure to keep the area free from dirt. Remember that you must follow safety guidelines when cutting roots, as they can potentially damage the tree. For example, don’t cut more than one-third of the root mass. When cutting multiple roots, make sure to tie a rope around each one with an overhand knot and place it on top of the root. Remove as much of the root as possible.

Once you have trimmed or removed your large branches, make sure to keep an eye out for any signs of decay or disease in your tree. If you notice anything unusual, it may be time to call in a professional arborist for further evaluation and treatment.

Hiring Help

After you’ve determined the size of the branches, you can determine whether to hire a professional tree contractor. Make sure to choose a reputable contractor with a great reputation. Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and check reviews. Ask for before-and-after examples of their work. Remember that removing dead or dying trees poses certain risks to the property and structures nearby. Always ensure that the contractor is bonded and insured.

Professional tree service companies can handle all aspects of your tree removal, including tree removal. However, the process is not recommended if the tree is more than 30 feet tall or within 10 feet of power lines. You run the risk of being sued if you damage nearby property or cause injuries to passersby. Alternatively, you can cut the branches yourself and safely dispose of the debris. Just remember, always wear protective gear and have a way to dispose of all branches and debris properly.…

Raised Bed Gardening – Soil Compaction and Soaker Hoses

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| Planting a Garden

Raised bed gardening has become quite popular recently, thanks to many ideas for beginners on the market. You can start small if you so choose and grow to be a gardener much bigger than you ever dreamed possible. You can use raised bed gardening for just one plant, for a whole garden of hundreds, or everything in between.

Basics

Raised bed gardening is also a system of gardening which raises the soil to an elevated height. This is anywhere from 4 inches to a foot high with a raised bed frame made of bricks, wood, concrete, or any other recycled material. The raised bed frame is designed to hold the soil, gravel, and other organic matter. Sometimes referred to as raised garden boxes, raised bed gardening can include a frame made of iron, bricks, or other recycled material.

When you begin to plant with raised garden beds, you will have to be sure to remove all weeds and grass within reach. Weeds can take over your whole yard if you do not remove them. Use herbicides before you spread the organic matter on the raised bed. This will keep the weeds and grass under control so you do not end up spreading all the unwanted weeds and grass within your yard. If you must, you can pull the weeds out by hand and plant new ones.

Planting in raised bed gardening systems will require you to use soil suited to the plants you are planting. When you use this type of gardening system, you will want to select plants that are durable, disease-resistant, and hardy. These plants will survive the rigours of raised garden beds without deteriorating over time. Choose annuals that grow quickly and have a deep root system. Many perennial flowers and plants are also drought tolerant and will survive even when you do not water them very often.

Raised Bed Gardening Tips

When you start with raised bed gardening, you will want to have some variety among your plants so you do not become bored. You can create a beautiful vegetable garden with different size beds and heights. You may choose a sunny location for your vegetables where you can sit and enjoy the fruits of your labour. If you have a raised bed gardening system at your home, you can put your vegetables in the raised bed gardening system and then transfer them to the bottom of your garden when the weather conditions are not good for your vegetables.

It takes more work to maintain a raised bed gardening system than it does to have a traditional vegetable garden. You will need to ensure that the vegetables stay healthy by checking them often for rot or insects. It is also important to fertilize and water the plants regularly. However, you should give them a few days break between waterings so that the soil does not get too dry.

Your plants will need certain amounts of fertilizer. If you are using hardy plants, you should follow the manufacturer’s direction in the amounts you need to add. For example, if you are growing tomatoes, you should add about a teaspoon of compost to every gallon of water. Then you should add three to four drops of liquid fertilizer to the top of the soaker hoses. Be sure to always use a high-pressure sprayer when applying fertilizer. High-pressure sprayers ensure that the fertilizer goes into the soil deeply.

Proper soil drainage is important for raised bed gardening. Soils that are well-drained will dry faster and maintain a healthy root system for your plants. This allows the roots to absorb the nutrients from the soil. When the roots are well established you will notice a big difference in your garden soil. Your soil compaction will be reduced, your weeds will be killed and your flowers and vegetables will grow better.…

Houseplant Light Requirements

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| Houseplants

So what are the requirements if you want to grow low-light houseplants? Well, first of all, the light spectrum your houseplant needs to grow in depends on whether it is annual or a perennial. Annuals need only bright light for growth while perennials need full sunlight. Annuals such as ferns and houseplants do not need any artificial light at all in the winter since they grow in the natural light coming from the sun. However, if your houseplants are going to stay outside all year long, then you must provide them with some form of artificial lighting them.

What are some other considerations for houseplants? The moisture level in the soil is important. Most houseplants require constant moisture if you want them to grow healthily and remain attractive. The type of root system that a plant has is also important. Some houseplants do not need roots to develop and grow horizontally; these are known as epiphytes. You need to check the size of your yard to determine which types of houseplants you can grow.

Basic Requirements

If you have many different houseplants, you will have to determine what they each need in terms of light. For instance, some plants only need direct sunlight while others may only need partial shade. Some houseplants cannot survive in full sun but need indirect light because of their water needs. Knowing what each houseplant needs will help you choose what plants are best suited for your environment.

You also need to think about what time of day your houseplants are going to be in the most light. Some plants are more sensitive to the sun and need more light during the day while others are better for fading in the sunlight. Again, you should look at what time of year it is where your houseplants will live the longest. Houseplants need to have a good amount of light throughout the day so they will grow healthier and longer.

Sunlight

How much sunlight does your houseplant get? This is a major concern if you’re growing plants in your home. The amount of light each plant needs will depend on what part of your house they are placed in. Some houseplants such as ferns can thrive with minimal exposure to sunlight. Others such as cactuses and houseplants such as azaleas need a lot of light. They sometimes require full sunlight so intense lighting should not be used.

If you are planning to use low-voltage light, then you can adjust the amount of light your houseplants receive to make sure they are healthy. When using low-voltage lights, you may also have to keep the lights covered or place them in a location away from the front of the house. One thing to note is that some houseplants are sensitive to extreme temperatures. If you are using a heater or an indoor greenhouse, you may need to adjust the temperature of the room your houseplants are in to accommodate their needs.

If you are not knowledgeable about houseplants, then it’s best to consult a local gardener or your local nursery to gain an understanding of the types of houseplants available and the light they require. If you have the space available, it’s best to purchase your houseplants in a group. This way you know what type of houseplant you want ahead of time and can ask for advice when you visit the store. Buying houseplants this way will allow you to see each plant in person and inspect its growth condition. This may be more difficult to do if you buy houseplants piece by piece.…

Planting a Fall Garden – What Plants Will Be Perfect For Your Fall Garden

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Planting a fall garden can be difficult at first if you are not sure where to begin. However, after you have a few fall garden ideas under your belt, you will find the entire process much easier. Here, you will learn some essentials for planting and maintaining a beautiful fall garden. With a little planning, you will have a beautiful garden in no time.

Planning

You should begin getting your fall garden started in mid-summer. Start your seeds, start filling in all the empty spaces in your backyard, or pull the existing spring plants out of your garden and replace them with new ones. You can find some good fall vegetable seeds online or at a local nursery. When you buy seeds, choose those that are resistant to frost, diseases, and bugs. You can also find some pests and disease-resistant seeds at most nurseries.

There are hundreds of different vegetables, herbs, and flowers that can make beautiful fall displays. Beginners can choose to plant vegetables, herbs, and fruits that can grow throughout the year.

Planting

Fall is a wonderful time to plant a herb garden. You and your family can enjoy fresh herbs while preparing meals. You will be able to enjoy the many benefits of a fall garden including the following: you will be able to save money on fresh herbs because they are less expensive during the year; you will not have to purchase garden pesticides; you will not have to worry about weeds; you will be able to enjoy the fresh air; and, it can be fun sowing and harvesting the crops.

Do not forget about planting bulbs. The fall planting of bulbs is especially beneficial because you can get twice the production of what you can get from the spring planting. Bulbs come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. If you prefer a certain colour then try planting a fall mixture of peonies, grapes, and bluebells in a border of orange, pink, and purple. Summer heat and rain do not affect the colour of these bulbs.

Choosing the Plants

Next, think about planting some vegetables and fruits that will survive the frost. If you live in a place where there is a regular freeze then you might want to avoid planting some of your hardiest annuals and perennials like tomatoes, cabbage, broccoli, and peppers. Some of these plants may even become edible when they are in the fall season. If you live in a place where there are very mild winters then there are some vegetables and fruits that you can consider. One of the best plants to have in the fall or winter is the squash, but if you want to be adventurous then you can grow anything.

Many people choose to plant vegetables and fruits that have been sown in the fall garden rather than planting seeds. If you have chosen to do this then you will want to make sure that you purchase the seeds that are for the variety of plants that you are planning to grow. If you are buying the seeds be sure that they are certified seeds. Be sure that the variety that you have purchased has some foliage on it; if it does not have any foliage then it is not a good variety to start with because it will take many falls to sprout new foliage on it.

It is also very important to follow the directions on the seed packets for what kind of soil and temperature to plant your seeds in. You should make sure that you purchase the seeds from a reputable source so that you can be assured that it is a quality product. It is always better to be safe than sorry and if you are growing a vegetable or fruit that needs to have a warmer environment then go ahead and purchase seeds for those specific temperatures. Fall is a wonderful time of year to be outside and enjoy the cool crisp air.…

Best Tips on Garden Care

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| Garden Care

A good set of garden care equipment and some well-chosen seeds are all you need to have a garden that blooms year-round. Weeding your garden is an important part of garden care, but can become a daunting task with the multitude of garden care products available today. With a little planning and the right tools, anyone can enjoy their garden and enjoy it in style. Here are some garden care tips for beginners:

Mulching – The first garden care tip for beginners is mulching. After planting your seeds, add organic mulch to help maintain the soil, keep the weeds down, retain moisture, and will also decompose and add nutrients back to your soil through composting. To begin, choose a medium, such as hardy garden care plastic mulch; however, do not go too thick or it will become slippery when wet. Beginners may also use bags of commercial loose-leaf fertilizer at this time. Once your garden beds have been planted, begin to water them regularly. Misting with a garden hose is helpful, especially if the bed has clay or sandy soil.
Weeding – Weeds are another common problem for garden care beginners. They often do not realize that the best time to weeding is in the spring after the growing season. Weeds need nutrients to grow, so they need to be weeded in the spring. Weeds will also die in the fall, so this is a great time to cut them back to size.
Deadheading – Another garden care tip for beginners is deadheading. Deadheading is the process of removing unwanted growths from plants. Deadheading usually involves trimming back green plants to reduce the amount of light absorbed by the foliage. Sometimes, depending on the type of plant, this step can require more than one cutting. The most common plants that are deadheaded include hibiscus, crocus, and crabgrass.

Pest control – Beginner gardeners must understand how to properly deal with pests. Different pests have different methods of attack, so it is important to learn which pests you are dealing with, and how to control their populations. The black spot, which is a fungus, damages green vegetables. Aphids, leafhoppers, and spider mites all attack fruit and leafy vegetables. Vine snails can damage grapevines, and slugs will gnaw away at roots and produce unsightly holes in your vegetables.
Summer frosts – When garden care beginners are considering how to prevent frosts, they should consider their equipment. The majority of gardeners use a spray attachment for pesticides, but some people use their bare hands. When choosing a pesticide, however, it is important to test the soil first to see if it is safe to use in your particular garden. Some pesticides are safer for children or pets than others. A frosts guide can be very helpful. It will inform you of the best choice of pesticides depending on the target species, and how much is needed to eliminate the threat.
Weed control – This is another issue that is frequently overlooked by gardeners. Some common weed killers are unnecessarily harsh for the environment. Weeds not only feed garden pests, but they can also harm people. Regular care for weeds includes weeding, planting cover crops, and trimming overgrown shrubs.
There are many products on the market that can help control weeds, and a gardener can create his blend of products. For example, some companies make products that repel aphids. Others repel leafhoppers, a great way to control pesky pests. Butcher’s broom, when used in conjunction with some other control methods, is also a very effective method of controlling weeds. Gardeners should experiment with different products to find the products that work best for them.

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How to Preserve Your Gardening Tools

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| Gardening Tools

There’s purpose and planning with everything that comes along in the gardening season. One of the most significant gardening tasks other than tending to the garden is cleaning and caring for tools. With proper storage, garden tools may last a lifetime. When deciding how to store garden tools, several basic factors must be considered.

Most garden tools are used for shaping, tilling and working the soil. Gardeners use knives, spades, hoes to till the soil, sculpt the land and dig up the roots of the plants. Gardeners usually have a variety of tools on hand, depending on their needs and availability. It’s good to have several tools on hand so that you don’t have to run back and forth to the shed to get just the right tool for the job.

Storage

To begin storing garden tools in their appropriate storage containers, think of what each tool will be used for before acquiring it. Do you need a blade for cutting grass, weeds and small shrubs? You may want to consider acquiring garden shears or a rake. Will you be raking clumps of leaves and adding fertilizer? A garden rake or shears would be appropriate.

To store garden tools, always wrap the handles in plastic to protect them from moisture. To add protection, you should also wrap the entire handle in aluminium foil. It is important to keep the handles in an upright position when not in use to ensure that they do not bend.

Gardening is fun but it can be difficult at times. That’s why it’s important to take the necessary precautions to maintain your garden tools, garden shears, and other equipment. Proper storage, maintenance, and protection is important to ensure prolonged use and maximize their use. If you want to learn more about how to store your garden tools, visit my website for more information.

To save space and reduce clutter, you can consider plastic totes or boxes to store your tools in. Totes or boxes can be easily stored in the corners of greenhouses, garages, or sheds. This allows you to create more space and keep your plants away from the damaging effects of moisture and sunlight.

Taking Care of Your Tools

If you’re interested in learning how to remove rust from metal garden tools, you’ll find helpful hints here as well. Always remember that if you put rust removing compounds on your metal tools, they will leach into your soil and damage the grass, plants and flowers in your area. To remove rust from metal tools, you should rub them with steel wool or a soft abrasive pad, then clean them with acetone and water. Never spray the metal with oxygen bleach to clean it because this would also damage the metal’s internal parts and prolong the inevitable rusting.

The most toxic thing you can put on your garden tools is nail polish remover or hairspray. When these chemicals touch a metal surface, they can severely corrode and break down the material. This can ruin your garden equipment such as lawnmowers and tillers. Instead of using harsh chemicals to clean your garden tools, use mild cleaners or mild soap. This will not damage the metal but will prevent further corrosion.

Using shears is an essential part of gardening so you should always have a sharp tool for gardening. However, if you are serious about your gardening hobby, you must protect your garden shears and other garden tools against dirt, moisture, and sunlight damage. To protect your gardening tools, you should store them in a protective bag or box to ensure proper storage and protect them from damage.

Rinsing your tools after each use is very important. If you do not thoroughly rinse your tools before storing them, you will risk germs and harmful bacteria from mixing with the soil. To save yourself the hassle of rinsing, try washing them in hot water with a mild detergent. Washing your tools by hand can be time-consuming as well as messy. Instead of running to the kitchen to rinse, you should consider using a garden hose to dry and rinse your tools.

Using an organic rust treatment on rusty blades is important for prolonging the lifespan of your gardening tool. You can buy organic rust removers at your local hardware store, but if you want the best results, you should take care of the problem yourself. You can apply organic rust treatment easily and safely in just minutes. Just spray the rust remover on the blade and wipe it with a rag or a paper towel.…