March 31, 2007
Early Spring
Palm trees are an important part of Florida’s tropical appearance. Favorable climatic conditions allow for the successful culture of many different species. They come in many sizes and shapes, varying from large majestic trees to small …
Source: unknown
For me, the appearance of blooming roses, confirms that spring really is here. The sight of beautiful red roses uplifts your spirit, no matter what kind of day you are having. It gives you a moment of tranquility, to stop to look at and …
Source: Rose
Spring looks like it may finally be making an appearance in Toronto and I have been thinking green flowery sorts of thoughts. And so, apparently, have these folks…. They are a band of Guerrilla Gardeners (not Gorilla Gardeners, …
Source: unknown
Question: I brought petunias inside late September, and here it is, March, and they are still blooming–although a bit "leggy". Would pinching back improve their appearance? Do you think they will continue to survive indoors until I can …
Source: unknown
Maples come in a variety of sub-species, but all of them make beautiful bonsai trees. Slightly more difficult to care for, they are nonetheless greatly in demand by bonsai enthusiasts. Their leafy appearance is attractive, …
Source: Jennifer
[Pictures, from top: Crocus, Primrose, Erica carnea ‘Shneekuppe’ Heath, Erica carnea ‘Vivelli’ Heath]. Spring is here and the garden is finally coming to life. The Crocus are in full bloom and some Primrose are making an appearance. …
Source: Neegle
Hi everyone
Welcome to this edition of your Gardening Weekly, today's edition is entitled:
Frost Damaged Plants
QUOTE: If seeds in the black earth can turn into such beautiful roses, what might not the heart of man become in its long journey toward the stars?
- G.K. Chesterton
The appearance of wilting leaves, and leaves that have a water logged look can be a sign that your plant is suffering from frost damage.
Another sign of frost damage can be the appearance of brown patches on the leaves. Other signs are shown when the shoot tips on your plants start to die back. If the flowers on the plant don't open fully or they become discolored and then start to die off, then these are also signs that frost damage might have occurred.
Website Of Interest. Check out the following:
http://blog.mygardeninghome.com/plants.html
There is no treatment for frost damage other than to remove the damaged portions of the plant in an effort to make it look a little healthier. Provided the damage hasn't been too severe you might not lose the plant.
Sometimes frost damage is not noticeable for a few days after a frost has occurred and this is particularly so if the frost was a very light one.
The best way to protect against frost damage, or to reduce the effect that frost might have on your garden is to choose the best plants for your climate conditions. If you are living in an area that is susceptible to frosts then your best course of action is to choose plants that are frost-tolerant.
By planting in areas that are exposed or where frosts occur more frequently you will increase the chances of losing plants to frosts so it is wise to plant in sheltered spots or areas other than where there are frost pockets.
You can offer some protection to your plants by wrapping them in Hessian cloth or frost cloth until after the period of frost has passed.
There will be times in such climates where it is not possible to know when there will be a frost and these out of season frosts can kill a whole plant.
Website Of Interest. Check out the following:
http://blog.mygardeninghome.com/plants.html
Thanks,
Annie
My Gardening Home Blog
Hi everyone
Welcome to this edition of your Gardening Weekly, today's edition is entitled:
Gardening Basics Every Gardener Should Know
I am quickly beginning to understand and appreciate that establishing and maintaining a garden requires a basic set of knowledge. Mother Nature insists that certain rules be followed and the gardener must work with Mother Nature to help plants grow, bloom and produce flowers, fruit etc abundantly.
Here is an overview of the gardening basics I have been learning and believe are essential for every gardener to know in order to create a beautiful garden.
The Bones of the Garden
The walkways, patios, decks and borders, along with trees, buildings and different planting areas make up the "bones" of your garden. Working with these existing elements and adding to the structure will enhance the overall appearance and practicality of your garden.
Planting Zones
Planting zones have been established using the average minimum winter temperatures in each geographical area. When choosing plants for a spot in your garden, you must know which plants will survive in that ares of your outdoor garden.
Mulch
I didn't realise before but I've come to appreaciate that mulch is much more than just a decorative dressing. Mulch protects the soil from the damaging rays of the sun, helps the soil retain moisture and helps prevent weeds. Mulch can also protect your plants from freezing. Very handy in deed!
Watering Guidelines
Something else I've come to appreciate is too much water can damage your garden just as much as too little water. Watering incorrectly can damage your plants roots and even kill tender seedlings. So, watering deeper and less often will help your plants establish deeper stronger root systems.
A Quick Overview of Fertilizers
Did you know that commercial fertilizers all contain three basic ingredients: Nitrogen for new foliage and overall plant growth, Phosphorus for a healthy root system and Potassium for the development of blooms and fruits. Well, I didn't. Also that fertilizers come in dry, soluble and time-release forms, giving you choices in how quickly the fertilizer is absorbed and a choice in the strength of the solution to be applied.
Deadheading
I used to hate deadheading, partly because I never fully understood the fulll benefits. But deadheading does more than just keep your garden looking neat and tidy. Deadheading keeps the plant from going into a reproductive mode and encourages it to put on more blooms, giving your garden more flowers throughout the season. I don't hate doing it so much now!
I've been learning a lot and the learning curve has been steep. If you take a look at our page
http://blog.mygardeninghome.com/gardening-made-easy where you will find out why that learning curve has been so steep and quick.
Watch Out For Your Next Gardening Weekly. I'm going to talk about what I've learnt about the four steps for easy and successful gardening.
Bye for now!
The My Gardening Home Blog Team