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Garden Fundamentals

Phenology: Using Nature’s Signs & Signals as a Gardener

Published on April 20, 2020Last updated October 6, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Robin nest with blue eggs.

Phenology is the study of plants and animals through seasonal changes. By observing and tracking these events, we gain a deeper understanding of life within our gardens. You may also enjoy seeing … [Read more...]

Why Old-Fashioned Garden Tips Don’t Always Work (But We Love Them!)

Published on April 13, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Dandelions and apple blossoms.

Have you ever heard the old gardening advice to plant beans when apple trees bloom or sow peas when daffodils flower? While these traditional tips come from experience, they arenโ€™t always reliable for … [Read more...]

Best Wood for Raised Garden Beds: What is Safe & Durable?

Published on April 12, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Wooden raised garden bed.

What is the best wood for raised garden beds? From rot-resistant cedar to budget pine, learn which materials suit your climate, safety standards, and wallet. If you are looking for designs, I have … [Read more...]

Can I Grow Plants Near a Walnut Tree?

Published on April 5, 2020Last updated October 6, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Walnuts growing on a tree.

Popular advice says not to grow plants near walnut treesโ€”they won't survive. But, despite what we're told about juglone, there are planting options if conditions are right. How do I know? My entire … [Read more...]

Hydrangea Pruning Chart For Beginner Gardeners

Published on April 5, 2020Last updated October 6, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Pruning a hydrangea in the garden.

Not all hydrangeas benefit from pruning and many will not flower if you do. Use our pruning chart to know which species can be cut back and those that should be left alone to ensure a good flowering … [Read more...]

What’s Your Soil Type? Try This Easy Test

Published on March 8, 2020Last updated October 6, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Jar with garden soil and water.

Use this simple test to determine how much sand, silt, and clay are in your garden soil. We tend to ignore this as new gardeners but understanding your soil composition is helpful for choosing plants … [Read more...]

Why Are My Bulbs Not Flowering?

Published on March 3, 2020Last updated November 18, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Flowering bulbs including daffodils.

Bulbs not flowering? If your hardy bulbs like tulips, daffodils, or hyacinth are not blooming, there may be a few reasons. Use this troubleshooting guide to figure out what went wrong and how to get … [Read more...]

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