What is a Crabapple?

Crabapples are hardy, fragrant trees that offer stunning fall colors. Not only are they attractive to birds and great landscape additions, they can grow to 15 feet. One variety worth noting is the Pink Spires Flowering Crabapple which produces flowers in shades of pink, rose, orange, and bronze. Crab apples make for an easy snack …

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Enhancing Your Los Altos Landscape: A Guide to Fertilizers and Soil Amendments

Introduction Lush, healthy landscapes are the pride of Los Altos, California, where homeowners and businesses alike invest in maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces. Central to the success of any landscape project is the soil beneath it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of fertilizers and soil amendments, helping you make informed decisions about …

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How Much Cat Grass Is Too Much?

Grass can provide cats with essential trace minerals, micronutrients and folic acid. Furthermore, grass helps clear out their digestive systems by encouraging them to vomit up hair balls or any debris accumulated inside. But, if your cat eats large amounts of grass, this could indicate an underlying medical condition and should be assessed by a …

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What is the Best Soil Test Kit?

Soil test kits come in various forms. There are chemical kits that require you to mix soil samples with reagents in order to determine what nutrients exist; and digital metering technology. There are kits available that offer laboratory analysis of your samples; which option best meets your needs will depend on what’s important to you. …

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How Close to Plant Tomatoes

Tomatoes require plenty of space in which they can establish strong roots and flourish. A layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture while protecting the plants from disease-causing splashes of water that might harm them. optimal plant spacing promotes air circulation, helping prevent diseases from spreading between tomato plants and decreasing bug infestations while simultaneously …

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How to Ripen Tomatoes Quickly

If your tomatoes are still green or beginning to turn, there are ways you can expedite their ripening quickly using ethylene gas released as they mature. To help your tomatoes ripen more quickly and capture this ethylene gas, place them in an airtight container such as a paper bag or cardboard box. This can help …

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Fertilizer Burn: Tips for Avoidance and Treatment

Every farmer, from the novice to the expert, understands the indispensable role of fertilizers in the growth and health of plants. They are, after all, nutrient powerhouses that ensure the crops get all the essential elements they require. Yet, it is imperative for cultivators to recognize that an overzealous application of these compounds can result …

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How to Get Rid of Black Aphids

Aphids feed on chlorophyll found in plants, causing them to wither and die off quickly if left unchecked. Fast action must be taken in order to stop these damaging pests’ devastating impact. Wear gardening gloves and use your fingers to knock aphids off stems, leaves and flower buds into a bucket of soapy water to …

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What is the Difference Between Perlite and Vermiculite?

Perlite and vermiculite are lightweight granular materials that add air to soil, providing airflow necessary for seed starting, propagation, transplants, containers and hydroponic systems. Perlite can quickly drain away excess moisture, which makes it ideal for plants that prefer to dry out between waterings, such as cacti. Furthermore, perlite improves drainage and aerates garden soil, …

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