How to Plant Bare Root Perennials? To plant bare root perennials, start by examining the plants upon arrival to ensure the roots are not completely dry or soft and mushy. If the roots are damaged, snip them off. If they are very dry, mist them lightly and store them in a bag with peat moss…
How to Save Okra Seeds? To save okra seeds, allow some pods to fully mature and dry out on the plant. Harvest the pods when they start to dry out and crack. You can break open the pods with your fingers or use garden shears to cut them open. Store the seeds in an airtight…
How Do I Grow Giant Pumpkins? To grow giant pumpkins, there are several key steps to follow. First, choose a large patch with well-draining soil and no shaded areas. Plant the seeds in peat pots in late April and transplant the seedlings outdoors after 14 days. Protect the seedlings from late spring frost using a…
What Month Do Crepe Myrtles Bloom? Crepe myrtles bloom from May to July, with some varieties blooming as late as fall. The bloom time and abundance can be affected by factors such as pruning, care, and sunlight exposure. It’s recommended to lightly prune crape myrtles in late winter or early spring to stimulate new growth….
How to Prune Elderberry? To prune elderberry bushes, it is important to first let them grow wild for the first two to three years, while pruning out any dead or damaged canes. After this initial period, regular pruning is necessary to create space for younger, vigorous canes. It is best to remove canes over three…
Why Are My Peppers Turning Black? Peppers can turn black due to several reasons. One possibility is that it is a natural part of the ripening process, especially for certain varieties like jalapenos and bell peppers. Excessive sunlight exposure or cold temperatures can also cause black or dark purple discoloration. However, peppers with partially purple…
How to Plant Bell Peppers? To plant bell peppers, start by choosing a sunny, well-drained spot in your garden. Wait until a week or two after the last frost to plant the seedlings and make sure the weather is warm and settled. Keep the seedlings indoors at night and move them outdoors during the day…
Can You Grow Rhubarb From a Stalk? No, it is almost impossible to grow rhubarb from a stalk. Rhubarb dries out quickly after harvest unless it is kept submerged in water or wrapped in plastic. The easiest way to grow a new rhubarb plant is by planting a section taken from the root crown of…
How to Grow a Chia Pet? To grow a Chia Pet, start by soaking the empty terracotta pot in water for 24 hours. Then, soak 2 teaspoons of chia seeds in ¼ cup of water for another 24 hours. Next, fill the soaked pot with fresh water and spread the seeds evenly over the grooves…
What Is a Gerbera? A Gerbera is a genus of plants in the Asteraceae family. Named after German botanist Traugott Gerber, there are 22 accepted species of Gerbera. These plants are native to tropical regions of Africa but have been introduced to Latin America and Southeast Asia. Gerberas are popular as decorative garden plants and…
What Does Green Thumb Mean? The term “green thumb” refers to someone who has a natural talent or skill for gardening and cultivating plants. It describes individuals who are able to successfully care for plants and help them flourish. Often, a green thumb is associated with having a strong instinct and knowledge of plant care,…
Can You Transplant Root Vegetables? Yes, root vegetables such as carrots, beets, turnips, and radishes can be transplanted as seedlings. Transplanting root vegetables offers advantages such as the ability to select seed varieties, a head start on the season, and the opportunity for succession planting. However, it is important to transplant carefully to avoid root…
What Is Zoysia Grass? Zoysia grass is a low-maintenance turf grass that is known for its ability to tolerate drought and resist weeds, insects, and diseases. It can handle variations in sunlight, water, and temperature, and can be mowed long or short depending on preference. Zoysia grass requires less edging around gardens, recovers quickly after…
How Does Sod Work? Sod works by providing an instant and established layer of grass with roots and soil attached. To lay sod, the old grass needs to be removed and the soil prepared. The sod is then laid and the edges neatened. It is important to water the sod frequently until it takes root…
Can Lavender Grow in Shade? No, lavender cannot grow well in shade. Lavenders require full sun and drier conditions to thrive. While some varieties claim to tolerate some shade, sacrificing flowers and fragrance is likely. Lavenders that receive less than 6 hours of sun produce fewer flowers, experience poor growth, and can even die. They…