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10 Tips for Growing Strawberries at Home

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Strawberries are one of the easiest fruits to grow at home and you can save yourself a lot of money on produce! In this blog article, you’ll find 10 easy steps that will help you get your berry patch going.

10 Tips for Growing Strawberries at Home

Start with a Healthy Soil:

Make sure your soil is healthy before planting strawberries. A good rule of thumb is to have 3 inches of organic matter in the soil. Strawberries need a lot of nutrients to grow well, so adding some organic matter will help to ensure that they are getting what they need.

Plant Strawberries Early in the Spring:

When strawberries are planted, they should be placed in full sun and well-drained soil. Spring is the best time to plant strawberries because they can take advantage of early warmth and sunlight.

Mulch Strawberries:

Mulching is a great way to protect your plants from wind and rain damage, as well as from pests and diseases. Apply a layer of straw, woodchips, or leaves around the strawberry plants every fall season. This will help to keep the soil moist and cool, which will help the plants to thrive.

Provide Fruit Trees with Proper Tending:

Give your fruit trees regular watering and fertilizing – strawberries are no exception! Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, starting at first light in the morning until dark each day. Watering should be done thoroughly but slowly – do not water regularly. Mulch with straw or peat moss to help retain soil moisture and protect the roots from drying out.

Create a Protective Barrier:

Construct an outdoor greenhouse, covering it with plastic sheeting and stakes made of wood to make it completely opaque for a few months each year (while you are growing strawberries outdoors). Be sure to allow at least one inch between the plastic and the strawberry plants, so that the plastic doesn’t leach chemicals into the soil.

Provide Proper Care:

To grow strawberries at home, it is important to provide the proper care. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Provide Enough Water:
Make sure to give your strawberries enough water every day to keep them healthy and hydrated. Over-watering will cause your plants to become weak and susceptible to diseases.

Fertilize Regularly:
Sprinkle a little bit of fertilizer every time you water your plants to help them grow strong and healthy berries.

By following these simple tips, you can start growing strawberries at home!

Preventive Control:

To ensure a successful strawberry growing season, it is important to take preventive measures. One of the most important things you can do is to prevent pests and diseases from attacking your strawberries. Here are some tips for doing just that:

Posts:

Prevent pest problems by keeping your strawberry plants healthy and free of pests. Remove any dead or diseased leaves, flowers, or berries from your plants. Plant strawberries in well-drained soil and water them regularly. Use a high-quality organic fertilizer if you want to increase strawberry yields.

Diseases:

Prevent disease problems by following these guidelines: wash your hands thoroughly before working with strawberries, avoid picking strawberries when they are wet, and store them in a cool, dry place. Make sure the air around your strawberries is clean by using a bacterial spray or vinegar solution regularly.

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6 Reasons You Should Scatter Eggshells All Over Your Garden

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In this article, you can find 6 best reasons why you should use eggshells in your garden.

Holidays have a way of dredging up old memories, for example, my Swedish grandmother’s method of putting a dried, crushed eggshell into her old percolator along with the coffee grounds. My grandmother’s people came from the north of Sweden where nothing is wasted but did putting eggshells in the coffee make it better?

Actually, it probably did. Eggshells are made up orimarily of calcium, which readily leaches into warm, acidic liquids like coffee, which has a pH between 4 and 5. Like a low dose of lime, the eggshells probably raised the pH slightly and mellowed its flavor. They also probably enriched the coffee with dietary calcium, which Grandma Ruth would have loved had she known about it.

Indeed, recent research has shown that consuming eggshell powder as a dietary supplement increases the formation of both cartilage and bone in people with osteoporosis, and can significantly strengthen bthe ones of post-menopausal women.

Using Eggshells in the Garden

The calcium from eggshells is also welcome in garden soil, where it moderates soil acidity while providing nutrients for plants. Eggshells contain such an abundance of calcium that they can be used almost like lime, though you would need a lot of eggshells to make a measurable impact. By the time they are well ground, it takes 150 eggshells to make a cup of coarse eggshell powder. I should know. I make precious pulverized eggshells and use them as a dietary supplement for selected plants. Tomatoes that have a handful of eggshell meal worked into the planting site are not likely to develop blossom end rot, and plenty of soil calcium reduces tip burn in cabbage, too.

I have heard ten thousand times that eggshells placed on the soil’s surface deter slugs, but when I tried it the slugs just laughed. When some Oregon slug slayers set up two actual tests, they found that a ring of eggshells stimulated slug feeding rather than stopping it (see photo at right). It is a myth that eggshells deter slugs.

Yet eggshells are quite useful in adding calcium to homemade fertilizers, or you can simply make calcium water by steeping dried eggshells in water for a couple of days, and then using the strained water for your plants, including houseplants. Plants that haven’t been repotted for some time often perk up quickly when given a good drench of eggshell water.

Here are 6 ways you can use eggshells in your garden:

1. Natural Fertilizer

Using eggshell fertilizer is especially important if you plan to grow peppers or tomatoes. These plants are most likely affected wbycalcium deficiency. Your garden will surely benefit from eggshells, and if you don’t want to use them right away, you can clean them up and place them in storage.

2. Seed Starter Pots

To use eggshells as starter pots you shouldn’t break them, just make a hole at the bottom of the shell when you plan on using the eggs. When empty, make a drainageholee to the eggshells and place them on a carton. Then, start filling each one with potting soil and prepare the seeds for the soil. Once the seedlings outgrow the eggshells, transplant them.

3. Pest Control

The sharp edges of the shells will deter the snails, slugs, and other pests. The shells will serve as the barrier and these pests and will scare insects and pests away from your garden!

4. Used In Mulching

Improve your soil by using eggshells! Apply a thick layer of shells to help deter weeds. The eggshell fertilizer will  oisturize the soil and will also improve fertility among the plants.

5. Repel Deer

Deer are amazing, but they can make a huge mess out of your garden if they come near it! The good thing is they hate the smell of eggs. So, scatter the eggshells all over those plants that the deer love. Placing eggshells in your garden will sure tcare them away.

6. Add In Compost

Eggshells are great for compost. The shells break down very easily and the calcium from eggshells can help to make the soil even healthier.

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Fruits and Vegetables

How To Grow A Meyer Lemon Tree In Your Home

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Meyer Lemons are a citrus fruit that has a sweeter taste and is more frost resistant than regular lemons. The Meyer lemon tree is usually grown outdoors, but can be grown inside as well. Growing this tree indoors is the perfect way to enjoy the fruit in any season!

Growing Meyer Lemons Indoors

If you live in a climate that doesn’t allow for outdoor Meyer lemon trees, don’t despair! It is possible to grow these lovely citrus trees indoors. Here are some tips to get you started:

Choose a dwarf or self-pollinating Meyer lemon tree for indoor growing. These varieties are smaller and require less space than regular Meyer lemon trees.

Place your tree in a sunny spot near a window where it will receive at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If possible, rotate the tree occasionally so that all sides receive equal amounts of light.

Water your Meyer lemon tree regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out between watering.

Feed your tree with a high-quality citrus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the directions on the fertilizer package for proper dosage.

Prune your tree regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Cut off any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Water and sunlight

If you want your Meyer lemon tree to thrive, it’s important to give it plenty of water and sunlight. Water the tree whenever the soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure to give it at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Meyer lemon trees are also relatively sensitive to cold weather, so if you live in an area with chilly winters, you’ll need to take steps to protect your tree.

Soil and Fertilizer

When it comes to growing a Meyer lemon tree, the most important thing to remember is that the tree needs well-drained soil. The roots of the tree will not tolerate sitting in water, so make sure to plant it in an area where the water will quickly drain away. You can improve drainage by mixing some sand into the planting hole.

As for fertilizer, Meyer lemon trees need a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can either apply a granular fertilizer around the base of the tree or use a slow-release fertilizer that will last for several months. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.

Patience is Key

If you’re thinking about growing a Meyer lemon tree in your home, the first thing you need to know is that patience is key. It can take up to 10 years for a Meyer lemon tree to reach its full potential, so you need to be prepared for the long haul.

That being said, there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice, and the process of watching your tree grow and produce fruit is incredibly rewarding. If you’re up for the challenge, here’s what you need to know about growing a Meyer lemon tree in your home.

Conclusion

Meyer lemon trees are a great way to add some freshness to your home. They are easy to care for and can provide you with an abundance of delicious lemons. With a little bit of patience and the proper care, you can have a Meyer lemon tree that will provide you with fruit for years to come.

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Fruits and Vegetables

How to Grow Radishes In Pots

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Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables. Patio and small space gardeners may wonder, “Can radishes grow in containers?” The answer is yes. Planting radish seeds in pots produces food quickly and with minimum effort. Start your garden early when you learn how to grow radishes in pots.

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Not many vegetables can be harvested in under four weeks, but some radish cultivars reach harvest size 23 days after planting seeds. If you don’t have garden beds, you can try growing radishes in pots; they aren’t picky.

Whether you have a large homestead garden or an urban container garden, everyone should try growing radishes.

You might be surprised at the wide range of colors and sizes available. There are purple, pink, red, white, yellow, and rainbow radishes and all of them can grow in pots.

When to Plant Radishes

Start your radish seeds in spring when the soil temperature is above 40 F (5 C), and the weather starts to warm up. Even if the weather is not favorable, you can easily plant the radish seeds indoors in early spring and continue to do so every other week for a regular harvest. Keep growing radishes till early summer and stop. Then, again, begin planting from late summer or early fall (autumn) till early winter.

If you’re not living in a hot subtropical and tropical climate, growing radishes in pots in summer is also possible. Sow seeds of summer varieties and take advantage of the microclimate you can create by container gardening. Water summer radishes more often and change location to save them from the intense afternoon sunlight.

In hot, frost-free climates, begin planting radishes in containers from late fall or early winter and continue planting successively throughout the winter.

How to Grow Radishes in Pots

Container gardening radishes require a wide gallon (4 L.) pot and well-drained soil with rich organic amendments. Use a vegetable starter mix, or make your own with a combination of compost and peat mixed with a small amount of sand or other grit. Mix in a vegetable fertilizer before planting to jump-start root growth after radish seed germination.

Ensure that the pot you choose has a good drainage hole and use unglazed pots that encourage the evaporation of excess moisture. If you use a saucer, make sure it is not filled with water constantly.

How to Plant Radishes in Pots

Radish seeds are tiny, so you may scatter the seeds over the prepared soil or use a special seeding tool to individually place the seeds. After germination, you can thin seedlings to ½ to 2 inches (1-5 cm.) apart, depending on the variety. For best results, brush a ¼ inch (6 mm.) of soil over the surface of the seeds.

Keep the pot evenly moist and place it where it is sheltered from high wind and gets at least six hours of sunlight.

Caring for Radishes

As soon as the seeds are in the pot, begin watering to maintain damp but not overly saturated soil. So long as your pot has adequate drainage and you are not using a saucer, you shouldn’t have to worry about the soil getting too soggy.

Shallow pots are at a greater risk of over-drying than those with more soil volume. Be sure to check your soil daily and water as needed.

Fertilizer is typically not necessary with radishes.

These root veggies mature quickly and thus don’t require a lot of added nutrients. Adding extra fertilizer can even hinder the root growth process by encouraging leaf development over bulb growth.

Pests and Diseases

Container-grown radishes have no major pests or diseases problem. But aphids and flea beetles might irk you. Wash aphids with a blast of water or use insecticidal soap.

In diseases, downy mildew can affect your plants. To avoid this, provide proper air circulation and don’t keep the foliage wet.

Harvesting Radishes

Radishes take as little as 23 days to reach maturity, but it does depend on what type of radishes you grow. Some do take longer, potentially up to 6 weeks. If you want to make sure yours are fast-growing, take a look at their days to maturity before harvesting.

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8 Stunning Pink Hibiscus Varieties to Brighten Up Your Garden

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Welcome to our guide on 8 stunning pink hibiscus varieties that will add a burst of color to your garden. Hibiscus plants are known for their showy flowers that come in a range of colors and sizes. Pink hibiscus varieties, in particular, are a popular choice among gardeners for their vibrant hues and delicate blooms. In this guide, we will showcase 8 different pink hibiscus varieties that will help you create a stunning garden display. From the classic single-pink flowers to the double-layered blooms, there’s a pink hibiscus variety for every garden style. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect pink hibiscus variety for your garden.

Here are 8 stunning pink hibiscus varieties that are sure to add a splash of color to your garden:

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Pink Lady’: This hibiscus variety is a classic favorite among gardeners for its striking beauty. Its large, ruffled blooms in a deep shade of pink, with a contrasting red center, make for an eye-catching display in any garden. Pink Lady is a popular choice for its resilience and ease of care. This tropical hibiscus variety can be grown as a shrub or as a standard, making it versatile for any garden design.

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Pink Swirl’: If you’re looking for a hibiscus variety that will really make a statement, Pink Swirl is an excellent choice. This stunning variety boasts pink and white striped petals, with a prominent red eye in the center, creating a dramatic and eye-catching display. It’s a showstopper in any garden and will surely impress your visitors.

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Pink Giant’: This hibiscus variety is also known as the rose of Sharon and is a deciduous shrub that produces giant, pale pink flowers with a deep red center. It blooms in late summer, adding color to your garden when other plants may be starting to fade. Pink Giant is an excellent choice for a focal point in your garden, and its fast-growing habit makes it perfect for quickly filling in empty spaces.

Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Disco Belle Pink’: This hibiscus variety is a playful addition to any garden, with its frilly, bright pink blooms with a prominent yellow center. It’s a hardy perennial that blooms in mid to late summer and is a great choice for gardeners looking for a low maintenance, long-blooming plant.

Hibiscus ‘Pink Chiffon’: This hybrid hibiscus variety is a showstopper, with its double, light pink blooms and ruffled edges. Pink Chiffon is a relatively new introduction to the hibiscus world, and it’s already a favorite among gardeners for its soft and elegant appearance. It blooms from mid to late summer and is a perfect choice for adding a touch of luxury to your garden.

Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’: This hibiscus variety produces deep pink, semi-double blooms with a bright red center, making for a bold and striking display. It’s a compact plant that grows to around 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or container planting. It blooms in mid to late summer and is a great choice for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.

Hibiscus acetosella ‘Red Shield Pink’: This tropical hibiscus variety is grown for its stunning foliage as well as its flowers. Red Shield Pink produces beautiful, deep pink blooms with delicate, fern-like foliage. It’s a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 6 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for a privacy screen or backdrop for other plants in your garden.

Hibiscus mutabilis ‘Rubra’: This hibiscus variety is a Chinese hibiscus that produces large, single blooms that change color throughout the day. The flowers start off a deep pink in the morning, transition to a pale pink or white in the afternoon, and then turn deep red in the evening. This stunning display of color change makes it a favorite among gardeners. It blooms from midsummer to fall and is an excellent choice for adding interest to your garden throughout the growing season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pink hibiscus varieties are an excellent choice for adding vibrant color and beauty to your garden. From classic favorites like Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Pink Lady’ to newer introductions like Hibiscus ‘Pink Chiffon’, there’s a pink hibiscus variety to suit any garden design. Whether you’re looking for a bold and striking display or a soft and elegant addition to your garden, these eight stunning pink hibiscus varieties are sure to brighten up your outdoor space. With their easy care and resilience, they are a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike. So, add some pink hibiscus to your garden and enjoy their stunning blooms for years to come.

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