Garden Fundamentals

Using Wood Ash in the Garden: Pros & Cons

Published on February 21, 2021Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Is wood ash good for the garden? For centuries, people tossed fireplace ashes in their yards, but its impact on plants and soil depends on various factors. If you're interested in alternative soil … [Read more...]

Using Biochar as a Soil Amendment (Pros and Cons)

Published on February 14, 2021Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Let's have a look at biochar as a soil amendment to find out whether we should use it in our home gardens. There are various pros and cons and suitability will depend on various factors including your … [Read more...]

5 Science-based Companion Planting Tips for Growing Vegetables

Published on December 28, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Do carrots really love tomatoes? We've been hearing companion planting advice for years and at last the new book Plant Partners by Jessica Walliser looks at the research to understand which plant … [Read more...]

Growing Vegetables: Weekly Indoor & Outdoor Seed Sowing Plan (Ebook)

Published on December 21, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Take the stress out of vegetable gardening with this weekly plan for sowing seeds indoors and outdoors from spring to fall. With some simple organization you can ensure your veggie garden is timed … [Read more...]

How to Grow Hollyhocks (Alcea) & Rust-Resistant Varieties

Published on November 30, 2020Last updated October 9, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Use these tips to grow hollyhocks in your garden and find out which varieties offer some rust-resistance. These old-fashioned flowers have been popular for generations. Delphiniums are another … [Read more...]

The Problem with Diatomaceous Earth as a Pesticide

Published on September 29, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Diatomaceous earth is often recommended as a pesticide, but it has drawbacks: it's non-selective, stops working when wet, and can affect mammals too. If you want to know more debunked garden tips … [Read more...]

40 Shrubs and Vines to Root from Hardwood Cuttings (Tutorial)

Published on September 3, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Starting new plants from hardwood cuttings is a slow but reliable way to grow free plants from many deciduous shrubs and vines. This step-by-step tutorial includes a plant list so you can propagate … [Read more...]