When you need to get out on a trail but don’t want to drive, I have an idea for you. Behind gate 116 in the Auburn State Recreation area is Ranch Trail. This trail is enjoyed predominantly by mountain bike riders. It runs alongside the Mammot…
What is it about gardens that invites us in? What allures us to dig in the soil, to sow seeds, to carefully tend tiny seedlings as we would tiny children? The essence of gardening is likely different for each individual. For some, the idea of…
Growing houseplants when curious cats are in the house can be challenging. We want our cats to be safe and happy while keeping our houseplants intact. You can accomplish both with a few simple strategies.
Whether you want to create a tropical oasis indoors or dress up your décor, plants are the answer. A few plants set on the floor, hanging from the ceiling, or displayed on a table can beautify any room, boost your mood, and reduce stress.
Keep gardening longer with less muscle strain and fatigue with these pain-free gardening techniques. You’ll not only keep your garden looking its best but also make it a more enjoyable experience.
A stroll around the yard on this cool late-January day, it is surprising to see some colorful blooming plants amidst the still leafless deciduous trees, and the now greening grasses coming up in the fields. One striking plant is the red-hot p…
We’ve been blessed with lots of rain this year, though, sadly, it was far too much for many areas to handle. Precious lives have been lost, as well as property.
Boost the flavor and nutritional value of winter meals by growing a container of greens indoors. Plant, tend and harvest greens for garden-fresh flavor now and throughout the year.
The sun is shining, and it is very tempting to get out in the garden – especially after being inside during the recent torrential rain we have had. But, however inviting it may be, it is wise to wait a week or so for things to dry out a littl…
It’s no surprise that succulents, including cacti, are popular. These easy-care houseplants come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes making them perfect for any home.
It’s a new year, and an appropriate time to share this quote by Josephine Neuse, author of The Country Garden (1970) – “Anyone who thinks gardening starts in the spring and ends in the fall is missing the best part of the whole year; for gard…
It’s never too early to start planning new additions to this year’s gardens and containers. Start compiling your list now so you are ready to place your seed order or buy plants early when the selection is the greatest.
Fight the post-holiday blues with a bit of indoor gardening. Keeping your houseplants healthy and looking their best with a bit of grooming this winter is sure to lift your spirits.
Start your New Year with a bit of luck and nutritious eating. Try a few of these food-related traditions and then plan on growing a few of your own to enjoy.
Long ago when I started gardening, I learned that you want to feed the soil, not the plant. I took this to heart and it steered my approach to gardening. The idea was to foster good soil biology and let the soil organisms (microbes) do their …
Winter has many birds searching for food. Lend a helping hand by starting, continuing, or expanding your bird-feeding efforts.
Wreaths, door swags, garlands, and containers filled with evergreens have long been part of winter celebrations and displays. Keep them fresh and looking their best throughout the holidays with minimal effort.
Grow your own burn ointment by adding Aloe vera to your indoor plant collection. This succulent has been used for centuries to treat superficial burns, cuts, sunburns, and more.
The hunt for the perfect tree is oftentimes an important part of family tradition. Buy local whenever possible by supporting local Christmas tree growers. Purchasing locally grown trees also reduces the risk of spreading unwanted…
What an extraordinary fall. With leaf colors popping all over our county, fairly warm days, cold nights (think chill hours for fruit trees), and some welcome rain to start the fall-winter season, this has been…
When leaves turn color and drop to the ground in fall, they’re going dormant. We think of them as going to sleep. But unless the soil is frozen solid — something that doesn’t happen here…
Garden centers, florists and grocery stores are filling their shelves with a variety of holiday plants; a sure sign the holidays are approaching. This is the time of year to give, receive or fill your…
With the falling rain, the garden is resting, but not for long. Blueberries and cane berries (black berries and raspberries) grow well in our area, although some planning and soil preparation will yield better results.
Nothing says the holidays like a poinsettia. This year, try some new ways to display this festive plant.
Give a gift that helps your favorite gardeners enjoy the flavors of their garden well past the end of the growing season. Both new and experienced gardeners often spend their gardening budget on plants and…
Boost your spirits and winter décor with new shapes and colors of amaryllis. Today there are many beautiful options beyond the traditional red.
Since Halloween is a few days away, I thought I’d revisit an article from October 2020 (which was a horrifying year in and of itself) in which I highlighted some rather odd, unusual, and sometimes…
To help native bees and other pollinators we can plant flowers for nectar they need for energy and pollen for protein and other nutrients they need for egg laying and feeding their young. But equally…
As you transition your gardens from fall to winter, you may be contemplating a bit of garden clean up. Before reaching for the pruners and rakes, consider all the benefits and beauty of leaving healthy…
Brighten your indoor décor, patio, deck, or balcony by forcing a few spring flowering bulbs into bloom. Just plant, give them a chill and enjoy a few extra daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, crocus and grape hyacinths…
As fall progresses, we have had lovely weather to get out in the garden. Some of my garden tasks this October include re-working a few of my raised beds that developed some issues over the…
Whether your indoor garden has outgrown its location or you are looking to expand your garden, a bit of pinching, pruning or propagating may be the answer. Grooming houseplants keeps your indoor garden looking its…
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