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Garden Fundamentals

How to Test Seeds For Germination (Paper Towel Test)

Published on July 6, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Testing seeds for viability and germination rates.

Want to know if seeds will germinate without going to the trouble of sowing them? This easy paper towel test shows which seeds will sprout and along with the expected germination rates. For seed … [Read more...]

How to Write Botanical Plant Names (Tips For Gardeners)

Published on July 1, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Flowers in the garden.

This beginner’s guide to botanical names shares the basics for gardeners wanting to get comfortable using the scientific names for plants. Once you understand the conventions for how the names are … [Read more...]

How to Know Which Vegetable & Fruit Crops Need Pollinators

Published on June 29, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Crops that do and do not require pollinators to produce fruit.

How can you tell which garden vegetables or fruits require pollination to produce crops? Use these tips to know which crops require exposure to pollinators like bees or birds and those that can … [Read more...]

Table Salt as a Weed Killer: Why It’s More Harm Than Help

Published on June 21, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Pouring salt on dandelion.

We hear advice to use table salt as a weed killer and see it recommended in recipes for diy weed treatments. But it's not that simple. Even though salt is "natural," it is not harmless. Excess salt … [Read more...]

How To Use Fall Leaves To Improve Your Garden

Published on June 9, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Dry leaves in the fall garden.

Leave the leaves! Use fall foliage as mulch, winter plant insulation, in compost, and to provide vital food and shelter for wildlife in your garden. Be sure to get your free Fall Garden … [Read more...]

Breaking the Eggshell Myth in Gardening

Published on June 8, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Carton of brown eggs.

Are eggshells good for plant growth? A beneficial source of calcium? Can they deter slugs? Let's look at what's known about eggshells as a fertilizer and pest deterrent in the garden. A lot of … [Read more...]

Which Animal Manure is Best For Home Gardens?

Published on June 1, 2023 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Wheelbarrow full of composted animal manure in the garden.

Animal manures are an excellent source of nutrients for our gardens and help improve soil structure. But which ones are best? Cattle? Sheep? Horse? Chicken? Alpaca? Also, find out why manure should be … [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).
Join me as I share creative + frugal home & garden ideas with a dash of humor.
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