Asparagus is one of the first harvestable vegetable crops each spring. It also happens to be one of only a handful of perennial vegetables, returning to the garden each year, with yields bigger and better than the season before. While asparagus plants are productive for many, many years, it can be somewhat of a challenge to get them established. For the best asparagus harvest possible, you’ll need to understand the stages of asparagus growth and follow a few simple guidelines for variety selection, planting, harvesting and maintenance. In this article, I’ll share some of my best asparagus growing secrets from my time as an organic market farmer.
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How to prune dill for bushier plants, summer dishes, and drying
Dill is among my favorite herbs I grow in my raised beds, not only because of the delicious harvest, but also because it’s a host plant for black swallowtail caterpillars. Every year, without fail, they make an appearance!. Because I grow so much dill—or rather, because I let so much dill go to seed—I don’t mind the caterpillars eating it because there is lots to go around. In this article, I’m going to share some tips on how to prune dill for bushier plants (scroll down and you’ll also find a video), to harvest for eating or drying, to delay flowering, and what to do with the seed heads.
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How to harden off tomato plants: Insider secrets from a pro
Are you wondering how to harden off tomato plants? Is it really necessary to do? How long does it take to harden off the plants? I’ve got answers to all of your hardening off questions below, but the short response is yes, you do need to harden off indoor-grown seedlings before you move them outdoors. It isn’t hard to do and takes about a week. Keep reading to learn how to harden off tomato plants using my simple seven day schedule.
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Drought tolerant shade plants: Options for dry, shady gardens
When I think of shady spots in a garden, I think of more woodland-like conditions where the soil is a bit damp, and moisture-loving wildflowers and moss thrive. But there are shady garden areas around a home where the soil may be quite dry. These areas could be under established trees or near the foundation of a home where the rain doesn’t quite reach. In this article I’m going to share some drought tolerant shade plants that you may consider for those dry areas of the garden that don’t get much attention from the sun.
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Plant covers to protect the garden from pests and weather
Plant covers are a simple solution to so many of the problems that plague the garden. They keep insect pests from damaging plant foliage, prevent deer and rabbits from nibbling on leaves, and shield plants from sun and frost. Have you discovered the ease and convenience of these protective structures? They make gardening so much simpler! In this article, I’ll introduce you to a handful of the plant covers I use in my own garden.
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Are hydrangeas deer-resistant? Tips and strategies for reducing deer damage
Are hydrangeas deer-resistant? The short answer is no. Deer love to graze on the leaves, flowers, and tender tips of hydrangeas. That said, there are strategies that hydrangea-loving gardeners like me can use to reduce deer damage. First, plant the most resistant types of hydrangeas. Next, use a barrier to keep deer away from your plants. Finally, spray deer repellent to stop grazing. Keep reading to learn more about growing hydrangeas in deer country.
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