Peppers produce some of the biggest flavors in a vegetable garden. Their vibrant colors can be quite ornamental. Growing peppers is very similar to growing tomatoes, making it easy to grow the two plants together. Proper planning is essential when growing peppers. The first step is to decide what types of peppers you want to grow. There are many varieties of peppers, in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. Peppers have a number of uses from fresh eating, frying, stuffing, pickling, and more! Types and Varieties of Peppers Sweet Pepper Types Sweet pepper varieties come in a variety […]
Author: Jaclyn Johnsen
Shade Trees – Planting and Growing Guide
Trees are one of the most important and beneficial living organisms on our planet. They provide oxygen, food, and shelter for many species. There are many benefits to planting trees. April 24, 2020, celebrates Arbor Day. It is celebrated all over the world however Arbor Day was originally celebrated in 1872 in Nebraska. It is a day to celebrate by nurturing and planting trees, we all promote cleaner air, enhance wildlife by building better habitats, and generally improve our personal home environments. Trees create calming, peaceful energy around your home while also cleaning the air and creating benefits for your […]
15 Best Plants for Pollinators
This year Earth Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Every year on April 22nd people get together to plan a better future for the planet. Every small change can have a significant impact on how successfully our ecosystem continues to function. Adding plants to a garden that attracts pollinators will ensure that you get to enjoy the beauty of bees, birds, and butterflies. They play a crucial part in food supply and vegetation around the world. What is a pollinator? These are the birds, bees, beetles, butterflies, wasps, ants, flies, moths, and even mosquitos. A pollinator is the carrier of […]
How to Create a Bird-Friendly Garden
One of the joys of having a home garden is that you can attract some nature friends like birds. They make a garden more pleasant to be in and are a wonderful natural insect repellent. Various bird species feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. A few enhancements and considerations will increase the likelihood that your avian friends will be attracted to your garden or even make it their home. Birds play an integral role in the ecosystem as well because they are also seed dispersers. Creating your own happy garden can actually create happy unintentional gardens for your neighbors as […]
14 Fast Growing Vegetables
If you’re interested in gardening and are looking for some of the fastest-growing veggies to get you started, there are plenty of options. For any number of reasons, you may not be able to wait for your vegetables to mature. Maybe you don’t have much time left in your growing season or you just want as quick a return on your time investment as possible. Here are some quick growing vegetables that can go from seed to table in 90 days or less. Arugula Arugula is an easy-to-grow leafy green that comes in a range of forms and flavors. It’s […]
How to Care for Bare Root Plants and Tips for Planting
Revised on April 3, 2024 Bare root plants are perennial plants that are dug up and stored while dormant, or in the resting phase which is the period during the plant’s life cycle with minimal growth activity. They’re stored without soil, therefore, leaving the roots exposed or bare. Storing shrubs and trees this way has some distinct advantages that make bare root items an excellent option when buying woody plants. Benefits of Bare Root Plants When to Plant Bare Root Plants Bare root plants become available in late winter and early spring. Bare root trees and shrubs can be planted […]
12 Fun Garden Activities To Do With Your Kids
The kids are out of school now, for maybe more time than we planned. These bonus spring break weeks can offer a great way to spend quality time with your family and to find some new and exciting activities for the kids. This is a fantastic time to find ways to keep our minds off of Coronavirus news and get those little busybodies moving, learning, and growing. Whether you’re in a home with a huge yard for growing or in an apartment with only a window sill for your mini garden, there are tons of ways to start turning those […]
Squash and Pumpkin – Growing Tips
Squash and pumpkins are North American native vegetables. There are a large number of different types of squash, and different varieties vary significantly in fruit shape and color, as well as plant habit. Many types are attractive enough to be used for fall decorating and displays. Varieties of Squash Winter squash varieties are grown for their mature fruit, which can be stored for use during fall and winter. The Butterscotch Hybrid Squash is an AAS Winner that has an exceptionally sweet flavor. With compact vines, they are great for small spaces. Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that […]
Transplanting Seedlings
If the plant’s roots have become so large they fill all the space in the pot, they can become stressed and won’t perform well, when it’s time to move them into the garden. To maintain proper growth and health for your plants, their roots require good air circulation and sufficient moisture for proper nutrient uptake. Before they become root-bound, make a plan for transplanting your plants into larger individual pots. Choose pots that are 2″ to 4″ in diameter and height or use the general rule that their new pots should offer about 25% more root space than it presently […]
Seed Starting FAQ
Many types of seeds are easy to grow, but some may require specific temperature, light, or darkness. Detailed germination information is included on our seed packets, and carefully following these instructions is recommended. If no light requirements are stated, light does not play an important role in germination. Remember to plan ahead. It takes 2½ to 4 months for most annuals to bloom from seed. Seedlings are ready to set out in about 8 to 10 weeks. It’s a good idea to keep a garden journal. Keeping track of start dates, growing conditions, and transplant dates is always helpful for […]