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Garden Fundamentals

What is Neem Oil? Insecticide Pros and (Mostly) Cons

Published on May 3, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Bottle of neem oil and a plant with bite marks from insects.

Neem oil, often suggested for pest control, has big drawbacks: it is not selective and can harm beneficial insects and Lepidoptera including butterflies and moths. For these reasons (and more), it is … [Read more...]

The Trouble With Anecdotal Garden Tips (but it worked for me!)

Published on May 1, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Eggshells and tomatoes growing on the vine.

Many garden tips are anecdotal, not science-based. Stay curious but lean on tested knowledge when you're aiming for reliable results. If this topic interests you, you will also enjoy Popular Garden … [Read more...]

How to Transplant Raspberries and Grow More Fruit

Published on April 20, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Raspberries ready for picking on the bush.

Transplant raspberry canes in spring or fall for better growth. A sunny spot with good air flow and well-draining soil can lead to bigger, healthier harvests. To grow fruit in planters, see 12 … [Read more...]

Got Acidic Soil (Low pH)? These Plants Won’t Mind

Published on April 19, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Magnolia bloom, blueberries, and mushroom.

Most plants prefer neutral soil, but many thrive in acidic conditions too. Explore this list of trees, shrubs, perennials, fruits, and more for low-pH gardens. For a beginnerโ€™s guide, also see What … [Read more...]

What is Soil pH and How to Work With It

Published on April 19, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Pink and purple foxgloves growing in the garden.

We hear a lot about ways to alter our soil pH to suit certain plants, but what is soil pH and we should be messing with it? Dive in to learn the basics about how your soil pH level affects your … [Read more...]

10 Garden Mistakes That Waste Money

Published on March 30, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Purple pansies, seed starting containers, and summer squashes growing in the garden.

These money-saving tips come from experienced gardeners. Learn how to grow the garden of your dreams by focusing on the big pictures and using your budget wisely. You can also save money with these … [Read more...]

Seed Starting for Beginners: Sow Inside Grow Outside

Published on February 27, 2021Last updated November 18, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Collage with milkweed, monarch butterfly, and cover of Seed Starting for Beginners ebook.

Indoor Seed Starting for Beginners | Sow Indoors Grow Outdoors is a complete, easy-to-follow guide for new gardeners who want to start seeds indoors to grow outdoor plants. Dig in and learn how to … [Read more...]

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I’m Melissa J. Will a.k.a. the Empress of Dirt (Ontario, Canada).
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