Create a space to spark children’s imagination Story and Photos by Cindy Shapton Children seem to have a natural love of the outdoors, a connection if you will. As parents and grandparents, we can nurture that love by spending time and providing opportunities to experience what nature has to offer. One way is to incorporate …
Don’t be afraid to get bare root plants! Story by Helen Newling Lawson You’ve finally tracked down that plant your local nurseries don’t carry, and at a great price to boot! But the description says, “Ships bare root.” Not sure what that means? Or are you afraid of getting a bunch of dead-looking roots that …
The basics of harvesting and preserving herbs Story and Photos by Rebecca Stoner Kirts Fall is one of my favorite times in the herb garden. It is the time to gather the fruits of your labor so you can enjoy these amazing plants all winter long. Many years ago, I was visiting one of my …
Decorating with fruits and vegetables Story and Photos by Loretta Gillespie Decorating your table with fruits and vegetables is fun and easy. And it’s not only prettier than a floral centerpiece, but it’s more economical – you can eat it! In the summer you can turn a simple watermelon or honeydew into a stunning vase …
Keep your landscape dressed to impress with these large flowers Story and Photos by Keri Byrum Taking photos of flowers in your garden is easier than ever. Big, bold blooms are a joy to share with friends and family and a fun way to showcase your garden. These tips will help you grow plants with …
Pruning your Knock Out roses Story and Photos by Bob Westerfield If you have had any interest in flowering ornamental plants over the last decade, you are surely familiar with Knock Out roses. They came onto the scene in a big way, promising to be prolific bloomers, virtually disease free, and above all, low maintenance. …
How to build a mason bee house Story by Sue Hughes The Problem If you’re like me, you’ve entertained the idea of beekeeping – until the over-$100 starter kits, ridiculous outfits, and the prospects of a sticky, syrupy harvest caused that thought to make a beeline right out of your head. Yes, I want to …
How to make your own garden markers Story and Photos by Sue Hughes Every spring I struggle with how to identify what I’ve planted. Part of the problem is that I demand my plant markers have the following attributes: • Inexpensive, if not free • Durable enough to last all season, if not multiple seasons …
How to build a raised bed from discarded shipping pallets Story and Photos by Sue Hughes Planting a garden in raised beds has several advantages: • Warms up faster in the spring • Easier to weed and maintain • Better control over the soil mixture (since you add it yourself) • Improved drainage • Prevents …
How to use neem oil Story and Photography by Brittany May Neem oil is created by pressing the seeds and fruits of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is native to South Asia and India. Pure neem oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is also a major ingredient in many …
