James Craig 
The Colorado potato beetle — and its larvae — can cause significant damage to potatoes, nightshades such as tomatoes and peppers, eggplants and more. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to control without resorting to chemical pesticides. Prevention measures against bugs in your garden include regularly cleaning it out and clearing away dead plant material, mulching …
Cold frames offer your vegetables and flowers protection during winter by creating an environment free from snow, rain, wind gusts or icy conditions while collecting sunlight and warmth for growth. Building a cold frame from virtually any material is possible; recycled products like old windows and shower doors as well as PVC are popular choices. …
A thick layer of mulch helps protect soil moisture levels while simultaneously eliminating weeds. But avoid plastic mulch; it locks away earthworms and leaches chemicals into the soil. Cardboard and newspaper can both serve as effective weed prevention methods, while wood chips from untreated lumber sources will reduce any additional chemicals entering the soil. Cardboard …
Starting seeds indoors often raises a key question for most: “How many seeds do I need to grow a plant?” Depending on their seed type and germination rate, that answer varies. Imagine an Arugula microgreens seedbed that has an expected 90% germination rate; 72 seeds planted into one starter tray will produce 57 sprouts. Germination …
Garlic is an essential ingredient, bringing zesty flavor to meals with just one dash. Used in multiple forms and stored properly to maintain freshness. Whole heads of garlic stored correctly can last up to six months when properly stored. Here are a few tried-and-tested methods of keeping garlic fresh for long term storage:. Choose the …
Miracle Grow fertilizer is an extremely popular all-purpose fertilizer designed for flowers, vegetables, trees and shrubs. However, overfertilizing can harm plants; to ensure maximum success always follow directions carefully. Water soluble, and can be applied with either a watering can or drip irrigation system for easy application to any indoor or outdoor plant. Nitrogen Miracle …
Boston Ferns thrive in warm, indirect light. They don’t do well under direct sunlight as this can damage their delicate leaves and scorch them from beneath. Water frequently during their growing season to keep soil damp yet not soggy. An ideal environment is crucial to plant health. Misting can help maintain high humidity levels. Be …
Powdery mildew is one of the most prevalent diseases affecting ornamentals. It typically manifests itself with disfigured leaves and altered growth, yet rarely leads to plant death. There are various practices that can reduce or prevent this condition such as planting resistant varieties, providing adequate plant spacing to promote good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering …
Jade plants can be propagated easily using either stem or leaf cuttings. To begin propagation, select a healthy branch between three and four inches long that has multiple nodes – this should ensure disease-free propagation. Succulents and cacti are most suited to rooting in soil over water environments; as wet environments may make them susceptible …
At each stage of marijuana plant growth, overall wattage is more crucial than its specific hue spectrum. Buy CFL bulbs that provide the highest true wattage you can afford at the lowest possible cost. Make spacers out of extra 5-gallon buckets you have purchased or assembled and use them on top of your main grow …
