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Winter Wonderland
Posted On 2012-01-19 , 10:54 AM
 Woke up this morning to a winter wonderland. Kids are loving it they are having a snow day, school buses have been cancelled.The yard was so beautiful I couldn't help take a picture.
What to do on a snow day ... What are you going to do? My other niche besides gardening is I love to cook. So that is what I am going to do. Cook. Starting with ...
ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP
Meatballs:
½ lb. ground beef
½ lb. ground pork
1 egg ¼ cup bread crumbs
½ clove minced garlic
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Combine all ingredients together forinto ¼ inch balls place on greased cookie sheet place in oven @ 375 degrees.Cook until golden brown.
Then in large pot add
4 cups chicken broth
1 small box of frozen spinach
¼ cup parmesan cheese
1 ½ cups of orzo pasta {find inpasta aisle it is small like rice}
Combine all ingredients in cookingpot. Drain spinach well, add meatballs when cooked, and simmer until orzobecomes soft.
Then I am going to make
SWEDISH CABBAGE ROLLS
12 Large cabbage leaves 1 lb. leanground beef
1 Beaten egg 1 cup cooked rice
¼ cup milk 1 {8 ounce} can tomato sauce
¼ cup finely chopped onion 1 tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. salt 1 tbsp. lemon juice
¼ tsp. salt 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Work’s best with frozen cabbagethawed eliminating having to boil cabbage leaves. Combine egg, milk, onion,salt, pepper, beef and cooked rice. Place about ¼ cup meat mixture in center ofeach leaf; fold in sides of leaf and roll ends over meat. Place in slow cookingpot. Combine remainder of ingredients pour over top cabbage rolls. Cook on low7 to 9 hours.Or can also be cooked in baking pan@ 350 degrees for two hours.
For Dessert
MONKEYBREAD
NGREDIENTS:
½ cupgranulated sugar
1 teaspooncinnamon
2 cans(16.3 oz. each) Pillsbury® Grands!® Homestyle refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 cupchopped walnuts, if desired
½ cupraisins, if desired
1 cupfirmly packed brown sugar
¾ cupbutter or margarine, melted
DIRECTIONS :
1Heat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease 12-cup fluted tube pan with shortening or cooking spray. In large -storage plastic food bag, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
2Separate dough into 16 biscuits; cut each into quarters. Shake in bag to coat. Arrange in pan, adding walnuts and raisins among the biscuit pieces.
3In small bowl, mix brown sugar and butter; pour over biscuit pieces.
4Bake 28 to 32 minutes or until golden brown and no longer doughy in center. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Turn upside down onto serving plate; pull apart to serve. Serve warm.
PROPAGATION / SOWING OF CABBAGE:
Plant cabbage seeds ¼ inch deep. Transplant or thin smallcabbage plants to 15-18” apart in rows 32-36” apart. Cabbage Transplants can bestarted in April for May planting. Direct seed in late spring, as seedlings cantolerate a light frost. Cabbage can be direct seeded up until mid-late June fora continuous harvest. Ideal soil temperature for cabbage should be 21-26°C(70-80°F) for optimal germination in 4-7 days.
Cabbages thrive when planted with herbssuch as dill, mints, rosemary, thyme, and chamomile. Cabbage also grow wellwith other vegetables and are good companions to onions, garlic, peas, celery,potatoes, broad beans, and beets.
CARE & GROWING OF CABBAGE:
Cabbage prefers full sun, but will tolerate partshade. Prepare a rich, loose soil that holds moisture well. Cabbage is a heavyfeeder particularly during the early stages of growth. I use Raised Bed Booster Kit .To help deter Cabbage worms, use Insect Netting in the earlier part of the growing season - thiswill prevent moths from laying eggs on the plant. It also helps to manuallyremove cabbage worms if visible.
HARVESTING OF CABBAGE:
Cabbage Heads areready when firm and when the interior is dense. Heads will split when overmature; rapid growth due to excess moisture and fertility will also causesplitting. They will store will in a cool dry space. I like to freeze a fewheads for making soups and cabbage rolls.Dandeny!
 
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Exotic Elephant Ear Collection
Posted On 2012-01-06 , 10:24 AM
 
BIG, BOLD and SHOWY!
Imagine an abundance of lush, expansive foliage more than 3 feet long, arching gracefully outward on thick, sturdy stalks. Resembling an elephant�s ear, each gigantic leaf is so dense and broad, it�s easy to picture yourself in the middle of a tropical sanctuary. Then there are the exquisite colours... the greenest of greens, soft creamy accents, deep purple hues.
These exotic varieties can thrive in YOUR climate from early summer until fall frost. And the best way to make it happen is to order from Breck�s.
Breathtaking in stature. Exotic Elephant Ears are beloved for foliage that is so astonishingly immense, you can practically hide among them. Gently swaying in the summer breeze, they reveal uncommon contours and lush colours. Grow them in open areas as specimen plantings. Or position them among existing beds to add dramatic height and interesting texture.
You'll receive one each of the following varieties:
Hilo Beauty - Featuring distinctive, heart-shaped variegated leaves of green, white and yellow in a jungle-camouflage pattern, Hilo Beauty is at home both in sun and shade. A robust grower in damp soil, it generally reaches 24�36 inches tall and spreads 3�5 feet. Th is variety is a good semi-aquatic plant for a pond or border, but will also flourish in a garden throughout summer till the first frost.
Black Magic - Black Magic provides a breathtaking visual treat from summer to autumn, starting with light green, 2-foot-long foliage that transforms to a deep, dark dusty purple as the leaves absorb sunlight. Growing up to 6 feet high with a spread up to 5 feet, try it as an ornamental specimen planting for open areas or to greet guests at your door.
Persian Palm - In a container or in your garden, Persian Palm brings the look of a Jurassic-style plant to your landscape from summer until the fall frost. Mildly serrated, deep green leaves grow 42 inches long and 36 inches wide, and reach an impressive 7�12 feet high, spreading up to 6 feet. Prefers full sun but does well in partial shade.
Polly - Truly exotic from every angle! Polly features a contrasting motif of dark green, shiny, arrowhead-shaped foliage off set by prominent silvery-white veins above and striking purple leaves underneath. Th rives from early summer until fall, growing up to 18 inches tall. Excellent for containers. Dandeny!
This item ships only in the spring.
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Garden Starter Kit
Posted On 2012-01-05 , 9:59 AM
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Compact 2-Tier Garden Starter Kit
Grow your own garden plants from seed in a compact space with our Garden Starter Kit. Includes a sturdy aluminum stand, full-spectrum lights, self-watering tray, easy-to-plant Cowpots and our exclusi |
Efficient grow light stands bring the sunshine indoors
Sunlife Garden
Grow lights are perfect for indoor seedstarting. You can also use them to grow light-loving houseplants, such as orchids.
Compact 2-Tier SunLite Garden
Grow lights, such as this Compact 2-Tier SunLite Garden, are attractive enough to have in the kitchen. Our Vermont-made line of SunLite Gardens includes both standard (4 feet wide) and compact (2 feet wide) models.
The benefits of growing under lights are hard to ignore. There is simply no better way to grow an abundance of stocky, green seedlings. If you grow flowering plants indoors, such as orchids, African violets, citrus and hibiscus, lights will keep them blooming almost year-round. A wintertime harvest of herbs and salad greens can also be grown with lights.
By learning how plants use light and about the many bulb and fixture options, you can select an indoor lighting system that is right for the types of plants you want to grow.
The Right Color
Sunlight contains the complete spectrum of light including all colors of the rainbow: red through yellow to blue and violet. Plants use the full spectrum for photosynthesis, although red and blue light seem to be most critical. Red light stimulates vegetative growth and flowering, but if a plant gets too much red light, it will become tall and spindly. Blue light regulates plant growth, which makes it ideal for growing foliage plants and short, stocky seedlings.
The Right Intensity
The intensity of light that a plant receives is determined by the wattage of the bulb and by how close the plant is to the light source. Just as plants differ in their need for certain colors of light, they also differ in their need for light intensity. Typically, those plants that are native to tropical jungles or shady forests do not require as much light as plants that evolved in dry, sunny climates, such as the Mediterranean or southern Mexico.
Most flowering houseplants, such as African violets and begonias, are happy being 10 to 12 inches away from a light source. Foliage plants, such as ivy or philodendron, can be placed as much as 36 inches away from a light source. But many flowering plants, such as orchids, gardenias and citrus, as well as most vegetable plants, require a much higher light intensity to flower and produce fruit.
Growing Tips
Rotate your plants each week. The light from a fluorescent bulb is more intense at the center of the bulb than it is at the ends.
Replace fluorescent tubes when the ends darken. That means the tube is old and the light output may be less than half of a new bulb.
Clean your fluorescent bulbs each month. Dust and dirt can dramatically decrease the amount of light emitted.
Place your hand where the light hits the foliage. If you feel any warmth, the light is too close.
The Right Duration
No matter what types of plants you are growing indoors, you must be sure to give them a rest. When it's dark, plants respirate, which is an important part of their growth process. The balance of rest time to active growth time affects many biological processes, including the growth rate, and the setting of buds and fruit.
Botanists usually divide plants into three categories relating to their preferred day length: short-day, long-day or day-neutral.
Short-day plants, such as chrysanthemums, kalanchoe, azaleas and begonias, will thrive on less than 12 hours of light per day. In fact, these plants must usually go through a series of even shorter days before they will set buds and flower.
Long-day plants require at least 14 to 18 hours of light each day. Most vegetables and garden flowers are long-day plants, and when they don't receive enough light they get pale and leggy.
Day-neutral plants, including foliage plants, geraniums, coleus and African violets, are usually satisfied with 8 to 12 hours of light all year-round.
Types of Bulbs
You can choose between fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs, each of which has its own benefits. Your choice should be determined by the type of plants you want to grow, and where you plan to locate your indoor garden.
Fluorescent Bulbs
Fluorescents produce two to three times more light than incandescent bulbs for the same amount of energy. They are the most inexpensive lights for indoor gardening. The color of light produced is determined by the phosphor coating on the inside of the bulb.
Full-spectrum fluorescent bulbs produce a balance of cool and warm light that replicates the natural solar spectrum. These lights are excellent for seedlings as well as for regular houseplants, culinary herbs and other plants. SunLite full-spectrum fluorescent bulbs are some of the best full-spectrum bulbs on the market, replicating 98% of the solar spectrum. T-12 SunLite bulbs may be used in any standard 4-foot fluorescent light fixture. SunLite bulbs are also available in a new, narrower diameter, designed to be used with a high-efficiency electronic ballast. These T-8 SunLite bulbs and T-5 SunLite bulbs use less electricity and last significantly longer than standard fluorescent bulbs. They must be used with electronic ballasts, specially designed for this new, high-efficiency bulb technology. To learn more, read Why Our SunLite Grow Lights Are Better.
Cool white bulbs are a good source of blue and yellow-green light, but are a poor source of red light. They are used for interior lighting in schools and office buildings, and are the most commonly available type of fluorescent bulb. Plants grown under cool white bulbs will be stocky or even slightly stunted.
Warm white bulbs emit plenty of orange and red light, but less light in the blue and green spectrum. If you are growing seedlings under 2-bulb fluorescent fixtures, you can usually achieve a good color balance by combining one cool white and one warm white bulb.
High Intensity Discharge Lamps
These lights are used by commercial growers and avid gardeners. They generally emit twice the amount of light (lumens) as an incandescent or fluorescent bulb for the same amount of energy. Because they are so energy-efficient, HIDs are used to light shopping malls, baseball fields, streets and gymnasiums.
The special fixtures and bulbs used in HID lighting are considerably more expensive than those needed for incandescent or fluorescent lights. They also tend to be high-wattage bulbs, so you need to consider the load on your electrical system. Some of these lights burn so brightly that they must be located in a special room and eye protection must be worn when working around them.
Metal halide lights emit an intense, bluish-white light that is excellent for growing plants. The foliage stays green and vigorous, and plants are usually stocky and strong. At present metal-halide are the number one choice for serious indoor gardeners.
Mercury vapor lamps emit an intense bluish light. These lamps produce a relatively well-balanced, high-intensity light.
High-pressure sodium bulbs are usually used to promote flowering and fruiting. Their yellow-orange hue makes plants think that fall is coming, which stimulates flower and fruit production.Dandeny!
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Azalea Plants
Posted On 2011-12-13 , 2:31 PM
 
Azalea plants may be kept indoors for as long as the flowers are colourful. Place the plants in a location which has bright but indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist at all times, but never waterlogged. Azalea plants which are grown in pots are frequently in a root-bound condition, and may need to be watered fairly often. Don't allow the plants to sit in a water-filled saucer, or the roots may be damaged. Azaleas benefit from regular misting with water to increase the humidity around them.
Once the blooms have faded, caring for azalea plants is easiest if they are planted outdoors. Choose a bright location which is out of direct sunlight. Dig a hole at least twice as wide and deep as the plant's root ball. Add a generous amount of peat moss to the soil, which will increase the organic content and raise the acidity to a level preferred by azaleas. Refill the hole about two-thirds deep slightly mounding it at the center. Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen up the root ball, cutting through it with a knife if necessary, so as to encourage new roots to grow into the surrounding earth. Place the plant on top of the mounded soil in the hole and spread the roots around. Fill in around the plant with the remaining soil mixture and water generously to help settle the plant.
Azaleas grow slowly and rarely need pruning. To maintain them at a certain size or to increase the density of their growth, azaleas may be pruned immediately after they've completed flowering, just as the new growth is being produced. These shrubs bloom each spring on the previous season's growth, having formed buds by summer's end, so don't prune them after early summer .
Properly caring for azalea plants includes regular feeding to promote healthy growth and copious flowers. Choose a fertilizer which has been specially formulated for acid-loving plants, such as camellias, hollies, and rhododendrons, and apply according to the manufacturer's directions during the growing season.
With just a little tender loving care, your azalea plants will flourish for generations, rewarding you each spring with bouquets of lovely flowers to grace your landscape or garden.Dandeny!
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Star of Bethlem
Posted On 2011-10-26 , 9:53 AM
  Star of Bethlehem in Cachepot
Star of Bethlehem is a member of the lily family native to the Holy Land, where its six-petaled flowers carpet the fields each spring. We've planted 30 bulbs in a decorative pressed tin container. The bulbs arrive sprouted and ready to bloom just 2-3 weeks after arrival.
A lovely, meaningful Christmas gift
Elegant embossed tin cachepot
Shipping begins 11/22
Faster shipping is not available for this item
In Spring Bring it Outside!
 Star of Bethlehem flowers, or Ornithogalum umbellatum, is a perennial with small, delicate white flowers. It's native to parts of the Middle East and Eastern Europe, but grows well in many areas The plant is generally 6 to 12 inches in height and it blooms in the spring.
Plant Star of Bethlehem flowers in full sun to partial shade. The plant may have fewer flowers or grow slower if placed in an area that is too shady. It can be planted in zones 4 through 10.
Water the plants regularly, but do not overwater. The Star of Bethlehem is generally low maintenance, but you do want well drained soil. If water is still puddling around the plant after several hours, you may want to move the plant to another location.
Propagate Star of Bethlehem flowers by dividing the bulbs. Star of Bethlehem grows well in both flower beds and in pots. Space the new plants about 5 to 6 inches apart.
Watch for invasive growth by the Star of Bethlehem flowers. This species can spread easily and overtake nearby lawn and other flowers. The waxy leaves are also resistant to herbicides so getting rid of this plant in unwanted areas can be a challenge. Digging up the bulbs is one solution but because it can propagate rapidly, you may need to stick with this over time.
Recognize that the Star of Bethlehem can be poisonous to livestock and other animals. The foliage and bulbs can make animals sick . Plant with care in areas where dogs, cats or other animals may be tempted to sample the leaves.Dandeny!
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Emergency Essentials Garden Seeds
Posted On 2011-10-21 , 11:45 AM
 
Emergency Essaentials Testimonial
Pratice Pratice Pratice...
Reviewed By: C. Wheeler
I bought these seeds last winter and promptly threw them into the freezer until spring. I believe in praticing with what I intend to use, so I opened the can and proceeded to plant my spring garden. To make a long story short my garden was outstanding. I managed to produce every type of seed except the corn as I'm saving that for later. Germination rates were quite high and I would have to say these "seeds in a can" are quite the value! I still have enough seeds left over from each seed type to plant 4-5 more full 2000sqft gardens not including the seeds I harvested from the veggies themselves. Long story short I couldn't be happier with my results. I plan on buying another can or two for my long term storage.
Great Deal !
Reviewed By: Steve (Dallas, Texas)
Great product at a great price. I tried to buy a similar quanity of seeds at the store and it would have cost 3x more - and that is without being specially prepared for storage.
Read more reviews @ Emergency Essentials
These Garden Seeds include an 8-page instruction booklet. Get started now with this complete garden in a can. With the contents of this garden seed can you can grow a garden the size of 2 basketball courts. These Garden Seeds includes peas, radishes, onions, spinach, cabbage, swiss chard, beets, carrots, lettuce, beans, corn, cucumbers, zucchini squash, peppers, winter squash, and tomatoes. These garden seeds are non-hybrid seed hermetically sealed in E-Z Lock Reusable Triple-Layered Foil Bags. These special non-hybrid seeds allow you to harvest your own seeds for future plantings. Non-Hybrid seeds produce true to variety seeds to replant for future harvests. Adequately dried seeds sealed in moisture barrier containers can be stored safely for 4 years at 65-70° temperature and much longer at lower temperatures. Each 6° drop in storage temperature may double the storage life of most seeds. Critical factors are temperature and moisture content. Store as cool as possible. Can should remain sealed until ready to use. For best results store unopened can in a refrigerator or freezer. Keep out of sunlight. Dandeny!
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Amarylis Planting
Posted On 2011-10-13 , 10:57 AM
 
Planting Period: October until the end of April.
Flowering Period: Late December until the end of June.
Flowering time is 7-10 weeks.
Larger bulbs produce more flowers.
Always store un-planted bulbs in a cool place between 40-50 deg. F.
Of all flowering bulbs, amaryllis are the easiest to bring to bloom. Indoors or out, and over an extended period of time. The large flowers and ease with which they can be brought to bloom make amaryllis popular and in demand worldwide. The amaryllis comes in many beautiful varieties including various shades of red, white, pink, salmon and orange. There are also many striped and multicoloured varieties, usually combining shades of pink or red with white.
The base and roots of the bulb should be placed in lukewarm water for a few hours. Remember, if you cannot plant the bulbs immediately after receiving them, store them at a cool temperature between 40-50 degrees F.
Plant bulbs in potting compost, many are available pre-mixed. Plant the bulb up to its neck in the potting compost, being careful not to damage the roots. Press the soil down firmly to set the bulb securely in place after planting.
Plant the bulb, or place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68 to 70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then, as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth.
Bulbs will flower in 7-10 weeks. In winter the flowering time will be longer than in spring. Set up your planting schedule between October and April with this in mind. To achieve continuous bloom, plant at intervals of 2 weeks for stunning color in your home or garden.
After-Flowering. After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering, and when the stem starts to sag, cut it back to the top of the bulb.
Leaf Growth and Development. Continue to water and fertilize as normal all summer, or for at least 5-6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop and grow. When the leaves begin to yellow cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb and remove the bulb from the soil.
Bulb Storage. Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 deg. F), dark place such as the crisper of your refrigerator for a minimum of 6 weeks. Store the bulbs for a minimum of 6 weeks.
Plant Again. After 6 weeks you may remove bulbs whenever you would like to plant them. Plant bulbs 8 weeks before you would like them to bloom.
Dandeny!
 
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It's not too late! Benefit from fall planting
Posted On 2011-09-28 , 4:29 PM
 
It's not too late to plant perennials, trees, shrubs and other hardy plants. Fall is actually the best time to get many hardy plants into the ground. Starting a new garden bed or missed getting those trees in last spring, you can still do so any time between mid-August and about six weeks before the first killing frost that means well into October and November. An added bonus: you can take full advantage of the fall plant sales and eco raised garden beds instead of paying full price in spring. I am extending one of my garden beds this week. Next week I am preparing another 4 X 12 ft. one along side of house , I want one just for tomatoes and cucumber’s next year. Then I will have more room in raised garden bed for other organic produce.
Gardeners are used to doing most of their planting in spring because of tradition. Back when the average flower bed was filled with annuals, this was the norm, as annuals are tender plants that only live for only one season. Yet most perennials (as well as many shrubs and trees) do best planted in fall; when plants go into the ground in spring, they're faced with cool soil that slows down their rooting, but soon have to cope with warm air temperatures that stimulate leaf growth and flowering. Then come the summer droughts, this hinders root formation. As a result, many spring-planted hardy plants fail to root properly and spend their first summer looking stressed and scrawny. Fall-planting ables them to go into warm soil at a time of year when rainfall is abundant and evaporation is low. This combination of warm soil and even moisture is ideal for root growth, which continues long into the season, well after the above the soil surface parts of the plant are dormant.
A fall-planted perennial will reach its full size the first summer, while a spring-planted one can take two or three summers to become well established. Though the difference is less dramatic, the same holds true for many trees, shrubs and conifers.
It's often said that fall-flowering perennials are best planted in spring, but that's only partially true. If installed when they're in bud or bloom, their root systems may fail to properly develop (if they are blooming ,rarely they have enough energy left for good root growth), leaving them more susceptible to winter damage. The solution is to simply shear the plants back by half to eliminate their bloom. They'll then settle in and root well.
And there you have it: planting in the fall is not only perfectly acceptable, it's the best time of year to get most plants into the ground. So pull out your shovel, do some digging and enjoy the fruits of your labour come spring. Dandeny!
Top Fall Perenials
Aster’s
In shades of pink, purple, blue and white, these delicate daisy-like blossoms start popping open in late August and continue on until frost. Pinching in the early summer turns these Asters into mounds with dozens of flower buds.
Asters will tend to creep throughout your garden, but their airiness allows them to blend particularly well with other flowers
Blue Mist Shrub
This is a sub-shrub that is often grown in the perennial garden. It slowly blossoms in August with dazzling blue flower clusters. Just try and keep the butterflies and bees away. Cut back in early spring, like a Buddleia, and the gray-green foliage is attractive all season.
Chelone (Turtlehead)
Nick-named for their blossoms shaped like turtles heads, Chelone is a carefree fall blooming perennial whose only real dislike is excessive dry heat. Chelone behaves itself, growing in a dense clump with attractive foliage and red, pink or white blooms
Chrysanthemum
There are many varieties of mums, not all particularly hardy. The plants sold in the fall as 'Hardy Mums' should have been sold to us in the spring, to be reliably hardy in the north. However we wouldn't have had the patience to plant them and wait. Mums and pumpkins are the flag bearers of fall. Try and get your potted mums in the ground ASAP. Keep them well watered and mulch once the ground freezes and you'll stand your best chance of having truly hardy mums.
Eupatorium (Joe Pye Weed)
Joe Pye is one of those native plants we take for granted because we see it by the side of the road, but it makes a wonderful backdrop to a garden border. The newer Eupatoriums have been bred shorter and less weedy but the dense mop heads of mauve flowers still blend in beautifully in the fall garden.
Helenium (Sneezeweed)
Helenium is making a resurgence in gardens. They look like small russet-toned coneflowers, in reds, yellows and oranges. Many helenium can grow quite tall and will need to be staked or pinched. Like clematis, they like cool feet and hot heads. Helenium is also a good choice for poorly drained areas
Helianthus (Perennial Sunflower)
Helianthus is a good natured, jolly plant, branching and flopping on its neighbors. The brilliant gold fluffy daisy-like flowers make an instant focal point and attract butterflies and birds. Helianthus tend to be sterile and can be reproduced by division.
Heliopsis (False Sunflower)
Heliopsis is very similar to Helianthus. Heliopsis tends to begin blooming earlier in the season and stays on for 8 or more weeks. Newer varieties have been bred smaller and sturdier, for less flopping.
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum 'Autumn Joy' comes as close to perfection as any plant can. It looks good all year, requires minimal attention and attracts few problems. It's only drawback is that it is not deer resistant. 'Autumn Joy' has been joined in the garden by a growing number of fall wonders like: 'Bertram Anderson, 'Brilliant' and 'Matrona'. No fall garden is complete without sedum.
Solidago (Goldenrod)
Goldenrod is finally getting the respect it deserves, especially with introductions like 'Fireworks' and 'Golden Fleece'. Unlike the native solidagos that spread everywhere and never stood up on their own, these newer varieties are sturdy and chock full of fall blooms.
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Snow Pansies Unbelievable Cold Weather Bloomer
Posted On 2011-09-27 , 12:18 PM
   
I purchased Icicle Pansies last fall and planted them. They bloomed until right before Christmas. THEN, they started blooming in March and I STILL have them blooming ..unbelievable. My neighbours’ have stopped to tell me how beautiful and colourful they are. I am going next week to buy more for the next season. They are incredibly hardy and pretty. After that experience, I decided to use Icicle Pansies in all my gardens. I just can't believe they have flowers blooming in March. Truly you can have a four season garden.
The name 'pansy' and 'viola' are often used interchangeable. Some cultivars within the Viola and most of them are hybrids of the same handful of species, so there are a lot of similarities . Gardener’s knows pansies as cool weather flowers with almost heart-shaped, overlapping petals in bright colors or bi-colors and often with face-like center markings.
Pansies the most popular and recognizable cool weather annuals. Breeding has produced pansies that are better able to stand up to the cold, but there hasn’t been much luck producing more heat tolerant varieties. Many pansies are bicoloured, making them striking plants for their small size. Although delicate, they are surprisingly hardy.
For the first time most beginning gardener’s hear of pansies and that you can plant them in the Fall to grow and bloom through Winter and into Spring . People can't understand how a flowering annual plant that looks as tender as a pansy can withstand the cold.
Pansies are winter wonders. Where winters are colder one can colour up the landscape. Pansies are one of a few if not the only flowering annual that will not only survive the winter but bloom through it as well! Severe cold might wither individual blooms, however, during warmer days the plants will continue to produce buds. In early Spring pansies go absolutely wild producing flowers that cover the foliage.
  Pansies come in a wide variety of colors and bloom types and sizes. Some are bicolour; while others are solid in color. Some produce smaller but more blooms while others, such as the majestic Giants, produce large blooms. While yellow, white and purple are traditionally the most popular colors modern hybridizing has expanded the colour array to cover nearly every shade. Pastel shades of pink, peach, lavender and rose are also available now, and oranges as well as many vivid bicolours.
Pansies are edible...yes, this means you can eat them! Try mixing the flowers in a salad for a tasty addition. Some varieties have a pleasant scent as well. They're a non-toxic plant that are child and pet safe.
Pansy Companion Plants
other plants that will thrive in the outdoor landscape during the winter months...and many of these are perfect for combining in beds or pots with pansies.
Ornamental / Flowering Vegetables - Perhaps the most popular pansy companions are t flowering cabbage and flowering kale, which are two among many colourful cool-season vegetables plants. These "flowering" vegetable plants can be used ornamentally in the garden and make perfect accents or centerpieces in combination raised beds or containers.
Evergreen Ornamentals - Evergreen conifers, such as the conical-shape Golden Arborvitae, Hetzi Column Juniper, the silver foliage Carolina Sapphire Cypress, Leyland Cypress and many others, make excellent centerpieces or backdrops for pansy plantings. These conifers make perfect little Christmas trees that can be lit during the Christmas season.
Hyacinths and other spring-flowering bulbs can be planted at proper depths beneath pansies in garden beds or container plantings. In the Spring, foliage and flowers from these bulb plants will rise above or be nestled among your pansy flowers.
To add fragrance to a pansy combination plant Rosemary or Tea Olive - both of which are evergreen and flower during the cool season.
Cool season flowering annual and perennial plants, such as Dianthus, Diascia and Snapdragons provide a different texture and flower-look in pansy combination plantings.
Pansies are a low nutrient plant meaning they do not require much fertilizer. At time of planting fertilize with a timed-release plant food to feed your pansies over many months. Water your pansies only when necessary and during the morning hours. Watering in the late evening or at night may cause fungus development.
Enjoy flowers all year long. Dandeny!
Eliminate clutter in your garage or tool shed with our durable peg board Gardening Center Kit! Hooks hold rakes, shovels, spades, extension cords and more, while the smaller hooks hold clippers and hand-held gardening tools. The shelf accessory is perfect… more »
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Orchard Racks
Posted On 2011-09-26 , 3:23 PM
  An Orchard Rack is the Time-Tested Way to Store Your Harvest
Years ago, people stored "keeper" crops such as apples, winter squash, onions and potatoes on rustic wooden racks like this one. The drawers are slatted to ensure good air circulation, and they slide out for easy access. For best results, the rack should be located in a cool, dark cellar or shed.
Store your garden harvest for months of enjoyment
Ideal for keeping apples, squash, potatoes and more
Perfect for drying herbs, too Dandeny!
Vintage Style Wire Storage Stand
This handy stand provides instant storage and keeps items organized and accessible. Measuring just 15" square, it takes up little floor space yet holds a remarkable amount. Store apples, pears and squash in the pantry — the open wire provides good airflow to prolong storage life. In your mudroom, organize hats and gloves, sporting equipment and school gear. Each basket holds 10 pounds. The unique jute liners (sold separately) contain small items and keep stored potatoes and onions in darkness to prevent discoloration and sprouting.
Extra-sturdy stand is a handy solution for storing extra fruits and vegetables
Ideal for organizing household clutter
Use in the pantry, kitchen, mudroom, crafts room or toy room
 
  Window Herb Pots
Have fresh herbs at hand year 'round with these four terra cotta pots nested in a woven reed basket, handmade in Thailand by skilled artisans. Create a culinary herb garden in a sunny window
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Planting and Harvesting Garlic
Posted On 2011-09-19 , 2:05 PM
 
Planting
The bigger the clove you plant, the bigger the head you'll harvest. If you're replanting garlic from your own stock, choose the biggest and best heads from last summer's harvest. And also use up any heads with cloves that are starting to separate. Garlic Grow Bag: You can also grow garlic in a specially designed fabric bag.
Colorful Garlic Grow Bag
Grow garlic anywhere! Like our other Grow Bags, we designed the Garlic Grow Bag so you can get the maximum harvest from the minimum of space. Plant each bag with 18 to 20 cloves in fall and you'l
Harvesting
This bed of garlic is ready to harvest. Some leaves are beginning to yellow. You could leave them a bit longer, but if the soil is wet, you risk having the papery wraps around the cloves begin to deteriorate.
Determining when garlic is ready to harvest is one of the trickiest parts about growing it. If you harvest too soon the cloves will be small and underdeveloped (certainly usable but not as big and plump as possible). If you wait too long, as the heads dry the cloves will begin to separate and the head won’t be tight and firm (also not a disaster, but the cloves will be more vulnerable to decay and drying out so they won't store as long).
Though it depends somewhat on the growing season and where you live, garlic is usually ready to harvest in late July. Dandeny!
 
Deluxe Tractor Scoot with Bucket Basket, Green
Gardening is easier when you can sit, swivel and roll! Our back-saving Gardener's Supply Tractor Scoot lets you work from a seated position virtually anywhere in your yard or garden.
Retrofit Bucket Basket for Tractor Scoot, Green
Already have one of our Tractor Scoots? You might appreciate adding this newly designed Bucket Basket. It's the perfect size for a 5-gallon pail or our 3-1/2-gallon Tubtrug and provides a convenient
 
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Making Leaf Mould
Posted On 2011-09-15 , 11:55 AM
Electric Chipper Tired of wrestling with chippers that are noisy, messy, and awkward to use? We are too! That's exactly why we're so excited about this new chipper. Designed with efficiency, safety and simplicity  
Making Leaf Mold
Turn Fall Leaves Into a Soil-Enriching Mulch
Electric leaf shredder
The Electric Leaf Shredder reduces fall leaves to buckets of shreds.
By Kathy LaLiberté
In Britain, leaf mold is the connoisseur’s choice for mulching perennial gardens. It’s easy to see why this cocoa brown, sweet-smelling, moisture-retentive mulch is so popular. The curious thing about leaf mold is that so few gardeners even know what it is. That’s probably because there’s only one way to get leaf mold—you need to make it yourself!
Leaf mold is nothing more than partially decomposed leaves that are somewhere along the continuum between shredded leaves and humus. If you wonder what it looks like, next time you’re in the woods, just kneel down and push away a small area of dry leaves. Underneath, you’ll reveal a layer of leaf mold—a crumbly brown material with a pleasant, earthy scent.
The Benefits of Leaf Mold
Leaf mold has several great attributes. The first is that it can hold up to 500 percent of its own weight in water. Besides helping retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation, leaf mold also absorbs rainwater to reduce runoff, and in hot weather, it helps cool roots and foliage.
Most leaves are slightly acidic when they fall, with a pH below 6. However, as the leaves break down into leaf mold, the pH goes up into more a neutral range. Leaf mold will not correct pH problems, but will have a moderating effect.
Over time, yearly applications of leaf mold mulch can significantly improve the quality of your soil. The result will be better water-holding capacity, a more friable texture, and an increase in beneficial soil life. Though leaves are not high in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, tree roots mine calcium, magnesium and many other trace minerals from the soil and your garden will also benefit from these nutrients.
From Leaf to Leaf Mold
Unlike making regular compost, making leaf mold is a “cold” composting process. The decomposition is done primarily by fungi, rather than bacteria, and it is considerably slower. The rate of decomposition is largely determined by four key factors.
Shredded leaves
A bag of shredded leaves, ready for composting.
First is the type of leaves in your pile. Some leaves, such as oak and holly, are higher in lignin (cellulose) than others, and therefore take much longer to break down. Combining different types of leaves, like a mixed salad, is a good way to balance lignin content and also improve the quality of the finished product.
Moisture is another factor to keep in mind. Remember that fungi are doing the work, and they need a moist environment. An unattended pile of dry leaves could take three years or more to break down. Keep the pile covered and moist (not wet), and you may have ready-to-use leaf mold in a year.
Another consideration is nitrogen. Freshly fallen leaves have a carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in the range of 30 to 1, which is ideal for quick decomposition. Old leaves, including those that have been on the ground for just a few weeks, will have already lost most of their nitrogen content. If you can gather fresh leaves and get the process underway, there will still be a good amount of nitrogen to speed up the initial decomposition.
Whole or Shredded?
The easiest way to make leaf mold is to just rake your leaves into a big pile and let the pile sit there for two or three years. If you aren’t quite that patient or you don’t have enough room for three giant leaf piles, you’ll need to shred them. Leaves break down much more quickly if they’re shredded, largely because it increases the amount of surface area, which makes it easier for fungi to do their work. Shredding the leaves also prevents them from packing together into stacks that repel moisture and seal out air. It also makes it easier to fit a large quantity of leaves into a relatively small space.
The simplest way to shred leaves is to run over them with the lawn mower a few times and then rake them up. You can also rake the leaves and run them through a leaf shredder. Or use a hand-held leaf vacuum with a shredding capability.
Assembling Your Leaf Mold Pile
A leaf pile needs to be fairly substantial in size, in order to retain enough moisture and heat to get finished leaf mold within 12 months. Six feet square and five feet high seems to be an ideal size. It takes about 25 trash bags full of leaves to make a pile this large.
A second option is to pile the leaves into a wire or wood enclosure. Again, 4 or 5 feet square is ideal. Wet the pile thoroughly and cover it with a tarp. Check the moisture level several times during the year. It should be like a well wrung sponge. If you live in a dry climate, you might want to line the enclosure with cardboard or plastic to help retain moisture. If you have a minute when you’re checking the moisture content, use a fork to stir the leaves and incorporate a little fresh oxygen.
Another easy, yet very effective way to make leaf mold, is to pack the leaves into black trash bags. If the leaves are fresh and shredded, just moisten them, close up the bag, and poke a few holes in the sides of the bag. If the leaves are whole or dry, moisten them well and add a shovelful of garden soil, compost, or manure. Then just stash the bags out of the way for a year or two.
How to Use Leaf Mold
Leaf mold is ready to use when it’s soft and crumbly. Distribute it around your perennials, vegetable plants (shrubs, too if you have a lot of it), no more than about 3 inches thick. Because leaf mold retains so much moisture, be sure to keep it several inches back from the crown or base of the plant. This will help prevent pest and disease problems.
You can also incorporate leaf mold right into the soil. Unlike raw leaves, it will not steal nitrogen from the plants around it, so it’s safe to use in vegetable gardens and around annual flowers. You can also add it to new garden beds, use it instead of peat moss to lighten the soil in containers, use it to enhance the soil in a shade garden, or to improve any soil that’s too sandy or too heavy.
Someday, gardeners may catch on to the value of leaf mold. Leaves are certainly an abundant natural resource in most parts of the country. For now, they’re still free for the taking, so don’t delay. Grab a rake and start making your own super-premium, extra-fancy leaf mold mulch.
Avaliable @
  
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Lucky Bamboo
Posted On 2011-09-14 , 12:09 PM
  My lucky bamboo plant is by far the plant I have, that I am very proud of. Many people have alot of problems with these plants.I was totally ignorant on how to care for this plant. I bought it when it was about 6 inches tall. Within a year it grew a foot. I then decided to transfer it into a bigger vase. Again not knowing what I was doing, I tranfered it into a clear vase about 18 inches tall. I noticed that the way I had bought it, it was planted with round rocks no soil. So I bought some aquarium rocks, and filled the vase half full of these rocks. CAREFULLY! I placed my bamboo in the vase, making sure that the roots were straight, then I continued to fill the vase with the rest of the rocks. I also made sure that no roots were exposed at the base. I filled my vase with water and added a few jobe fertilizer sticks. Now my lucky bamboo is 4 1/2 feet tall. The only thing is that now she has out grown that vase. She is ready to be transplanted again. Lucky bamboo is another easy household plant to maintain. As long as you keep it watered to the top of the rocks of the plant, it will thrive for you. Maybe needs watering once every three months. Lucky bamboo has different meanings,it works on how many stalks you have. Mine has seven, meaning good heath. These plants can grow up to 8 1/2 feet tall. A very eco friendly hydroponic plant, Dandeny!
  
Braided Trellis Bamboo
Bring positive energy and prosperity into your home or office with this unique braided bamboo trellis.
Triple-Braided Lucky Potted Bamboo Plant
Lush greenery and good fortune are promised with the arrival of this triple-braided arrangement of bamboo.
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Kiwi Plants
Posted On 2011-09-13 , 12:55 PM
  A couple years back I decided to plant kiwi. Taking a big chance living in zone 3. Although I do baby it alot. I lay down a good foot of leaves @ her roots before winter. I planted her close to the house on the south side, so she gets alot of sun. I also cover it with burlap. It is hard to believe but she is producing fruit. Plus I find with global warming our winters are not as harsh as they use to be. This past winter the south got nailed alot harder then the south.
For many the attraction in growing kiwi vines is their foliage. As the leaves emerge in spring, they're green; but they soon pick up splotches of white. As an encore, some leaves then develop pink tips. Small white blooms appear in spring, but kiwi vines aren't grown primarily for their blooms. Kiwis are climbers of the "twining" type. The vines of kiwi plants may eventually reach a length of 15-20 feet. Indigenous to the Far East, hardy kiwis can be grown in planting zones 4-8. But like I said I took a chance in zone 3 with success and alot of care.Plant kiwi vines in a loamy, well-drained soil and be sure to provide adequate water. The plants tolerate a range of light conditions from sun to shade, but greater exposure to sun often results in superior color in the variegated leaves.
This Specialty Plant - Kiwi, Hardy Collection is Charming, tasty grape-sized 1" kiwi fruits.
Inside the unfuzzy skin, the fruit is emerald green with small black seeds. Fruit ripens on the female vine: male vine is a lovely ornamental climbing vine. Hardy kiwi are actually sweeter than regular kiwi fruits. Ripens in fall. Dandeny!
 
You don't have to live in Australia or California to grow the exotic kiwi fruit, because we've found 'Arctic Beauty,' a Russian native that is hardy to -40??. This beautiful vine loves light shade to f
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Daffodills
Posted On 2011-08-29 , 12:07 PM
 
Gardening How-To – Tips & Growing Instructions: Daffodils
A successfully naturalized daffodil field can bloom for up to 30 or even 50 years! First, choose an area with good drainage and sunlight. An area where grass can be left unmown until the foliage has matured is ideal. Hillsides are excellent spots. The edges of woods are also good, if you are planting an early-blooming variety which will have a chance to mature before the trees come into full leaf. For best impact, plant drifts of like kinds and colours. Many gardeners “arrange” their drifts simply by taking handfuls of bulbs and throwing them about for a natural-feeling distribution -- just dig where the bulbs land!
When naturalizing daffodils, you will get the best results and many years of blooms by taking the time to plant properly. For most naturalizing projects, you will be working in uncultivated soil with thick sod, so it is necessary to give each bulb a small custom-cultivated hole. Usually, this means lifting out soil with a spade. One clever way to make precise bulb holes is to use a battery-powered drill – a half-inch drill with a 3” bit usually does the job. Work up the soil from the hole with some peat moss, sand and about a tablespoon of low nitrogen fertilizer. Refill the hole to just below the planting depth with this mix. Next, add one handful of sand and then the bulb (you do not want the bulb in direct contact with the fertilizer). Then fill the hole the rest of the way with sand and replace some of the sod. With a sub-layer of rich, organic fertilized soil to send roots into, your daffodils will grow even stronger and bloom for years! Ships in Fall. Dandeny!
 
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Year Round Planter
Posted On 2011-07-15 , 10:30 AM
I planted this year round planter and it is the most stunning planter I ever planted. Everyone who sees it gives me alot of complments. I purchased a fibre stone pot, a resin pot would be good also, because it is light in weight. The pot is 3ft in diameter. Then I filled it with vermiculite potting soil, this is because it holds the moisture longer. Foxwood is my fill, meaning it is the plant that takes up the most space and is the focus plant. Celosia & Zinnia one plant of each are my thrill of the planter. To finish I put two potatoe vines one on each side of planter. These lime green plants I planted on a slant to make it grow out of pot, these lime green plants are the drama to the planter. Watered with slow release organic fertilizer that's it the planter is complete. This planter will survive in all zones very hardy planter. I only water it every other day. It will last right till first frost. Dandeny!
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How to Rid Lawn of Mushrooms
Posted On 2011-06-29 , 9:14 AM
 
What most professional and commercial landscapers do with mushrooms, is they pick them as soon as they see them appear because it helps prevent their spores from spreading to new sites. And while it is true that many spores are wind-blown long distances, and they can easily come into your lawn and yard again from neighboring areas, if the conditions are not right, they won't grow and form mushrooms.
The Good News:
Most lawn mushrooms do not harm your lawn nor cause any damage. They are simply, and quietly, decomposing organic matter and releasing nutrients that are then available for plant growth back into the soil, and that's good to know.
My Remedie Is:
Mushrooms tend to thrive in acidic soil. So I applied lime to sweeten the earth, that worked for me. Also the thicker your lawn the less weed problems you will have. Apply grass seed @ least once a month until your grass is thick and disease free. Applying corn gluetin is another alternative the only problem with that is it has to be applied in spring before you see the mushrooms. Rule of thumb spread corn gluten in fall and spring. Spread lime once a year. Dandeny!
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Straw Flowers
Posted On 2011-06-28 , 1:09 PM
 
Strawflowers are classified as a herb, they are easy to grow. Natives of Australia, Strawflowers grow up to three feet tall. These "Aussies" have big blooms that come in yellow, orange, red, rose, white, and pink. They look good in the flower bed, in vases, corsages, bouquets, and more. Once they begin to bloom in mid summer, they will reward you with bursts of color right up to frost. Strawflowers are "everlasting" flowers as they can be dried and will last a long time. They make excellent winter bouquets and are popular with crafters.
Strawflowers are easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade. They will do well in poor to average soils, and tolerate heat and drought conditions. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season for maximum plant growth, and to promote big blooms. Once your Strawflowers are established, they will grow well. They will bloom from mid-summer right up to frost. Strawflower are fairly resistant to insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic insect repellents and fungicide.
Cut Strawflowers just before full bloom. Hang upside down to dry in a dry, well ventilated area. Once they have dried up they will last a very long-time. When picking them for drying wait until all dew is gone and the flower feels dry, possibly by noon on sunny days. The flowers picked for drying should be not fully opened. They tend to open wider as they dry with the petals at times folding completely back. Depending on the look you want cut them accordingly. Cut long stems and remove all leaves. Bunch stems in small bundles, fastened with a rubber band and hang upside down out of direct sun. The sun fades the colors quickly. Dandeny!
 
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The Water Resources of Earth
Posted On 2011-06-21 , 8:53 AM
 Over 70% of our Earth's surface is covered by water. Although water is seemingly abundant, the real issue is the amount of fresh water available. 97.5% of all water on Earth is salt water, leaving only 2.5% as fresh water
Nearly 70% of that fresh water is frozen in the icecaps of Antarctica and Greenland; most of the remainder is present as soil moisture, or lies in deep underground aquifers as groundwater not accessible to human use.
< 1% of the world's fresh water (~0.007% of all water on earth) is accessible for direct human uses. This is the water found in lakes, rivers, reservoirs and those underground sources that are shallow enough to be tapped at an affordable cost. Only this amount is regularly renewed by rain and snowfall, and available on a sustainable basis.
EcoloBlue Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) produce unlimited, pure, delicious drinking water from just the humidity in the air
EcoloBlue Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) produce unlimited, pure, delicious drinking water from just the humidity in the air. Our machines utilize a cutting-edge, proprietary technology –the most efficient, and energy conscious condensers available today– to extract more moisture from the atmosphere, quicker and more efficiently than any comparable machine.
Yes, it is really the humidity
Believe it or not, Earth's atmosphere contains more water than it's vast oceans. 8 miles straight-up of untapped atmosphere just waiting to contribute to life on Earth. Until now, it was a mere fantasy to harness that unlimited, and renewable natural resource. EcoloBlue AWGs bring the previously unfathomable idea of limitless, sustainable, and portable hydration to the masses.
Turns out the best water on earth, isn’t on earth @ all.
 Lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40% of total household water use during the summer. A rain barrel collects water and stores it for when you need it most -- during periods of drought -- to water plants, wash your car, or to top a swimming pool. It provides an ample supply of free "soft water" to homeown ers, containing no chlorine, lime or calcium making it ideal for gardens, flower pots, and car and window washing. A rain barrel will save most homeowners about 1,300 gallons of water during the peak summer months. Sav ing water not only helps protect the environment, it saves you money and energy. Diverting water from storm drains also decreases the impact of runoff to streams. Therefore, a rain barrel is an easy way for you to have a consistent supply of clean, fresh water for outdoor use,
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Bee Balm
Posted On 2011-05-04 , 1:18 PM
 Bee Balm is a stunning perennial with bright red, violet, pink or white tubular flowers, square stems and mint- or citrus-scented foliage is one of the few herbs with really showy blossoms
Apart from the Bee Balms aesthetic value, their leaves and flowers are used to make tea. Bee Balms which have red blossoms are commonly known as Oswego tea. The fragrant oil of the Bee Balm is used to treat skin eruptions, rashes and infections. It can also be used for relief from fever, nausea, headaches and sore throat. Also, the pulverized leaves of the Bee Balm are used to treat bee sting wounds. That's how the plant got it’s name. This is a wonderful tea herb. To make a cup of tea, simply place tablespoon of fresh or one teaspoon of dried Bee Balm leaves and/or flowers in a tea strainer or tea spoon and pour one cup of boiling water over it. Allow it to steep for ten minutes and bring the tea out. Sweeten if you wish and enjoy.
The flowers make excellent cut flowers. Be sure to cut the stems at an angle so they can take up water.
Culinary. Chop the leaves and flowers and add to fruit salads for extra flavour. Garnish any type of salad with the leaves and flowers.
Propagation is easy just divide plants or take cuttings of the stolons. Plants will self-seed.
Bee balm should be dug up, divided and replanted every three or four years in early spring or fall to keep plants healthy.
On top of all these qualities, it is a hardy perennial herb that will grow in all zones. Bee Balm requires full sun or light shade and fertile, light and moist soil.
Bee Balm is so pretty it should be included in your flower beds. It will attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. I know it's hard to welcome bees into the garden, but remember that we need them to pollinate our plants. Good partners for Bee Balm are Purple Coneflower Black Eyed Susan ,Phlox, Lilies, Hardy Geraniums, and Lavender .
Deer will not eat bee balm. When dried, its aromatic leaves are excellent in potpourri and sachets.
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Orchids
Posted On 2011-04-18 , 6:57 PM
  Orchids can be among the showiest and most exotic of all garden or patio plants.Orchids generally come from environments where light is the norm. The hotter the sun, the more midday shade is required. In humid climates, more sun can be given. The required amount of light will also dictate your selection of plants.
Cattleya Alliance Hybrids: are hybrids with Laelia anceps in their ancestry; half sun, temperature-tolerant.
Cymbidiums: Only in areas with cool summer nights
Dendrobiums: Among the many choices half sun, temperature-tolerant.
Encyclia Species and Hybrids: Half sun, very temperature-tolerant.
Epidendrums: Especially the brilliant reed-stem types; need almost full sun, temperature-tolerant.
Oncidiums: Mexican species, or higher-elevation types; bright shade to half sun.
Paphiopedilums: Lady's-slipper orchids are for the shaded garden.
Phaius: The nun orchid, with broad leaves and tall spikes; shade to half sun, keep moist.
Spathoglottis: Broad, palmlike leaves and spikes of purple and yellow flowers; shade to half sun.
Orchids in every part of the world face dangers from pollution, habitat destruction, and global warming. Do everything you can to stop these threats. We are already losing many of these wondrous plants forever. Reduce what you use and recycle. Take action to stop rainforests from being cut down or burned. Daadeny!
 
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Coleus
Posted On 2011-04-17 , 10:59 AM
  Coleus grows nearly everywhere very easy to grow- in bright sun or deep shade, indoors or out - but for best results give it moisture and filtered shade. It’s colour is affected by light intensity. This attractive foliage plant is great for containers or planting underneath. Coleus will usually survive in sun, the color of the leaves is enhanced in the shade. Small, insignificant flowers will appear late summer. Pinch off blooms and growing shoots of young plants to encourage bushier foliage Coleus are one of the easiest plants to propagate from cuttings and over winter indoors. Over winter coleus indoors and by early next summer you can have huge plants that will be the envy of the neighbourhood. The good news is you need very little to propagate coleus. One of the easiest annuals to grow from cuttings.
Start with a good healthy coleus with healthy foliage and many stems. Clip a few stems for propagation. The clippings should be at least four or five inches long. Remove a couple leaf nodes from the bottom of the stem. Place the stems in fresh water, in a clear vase or jar. Give the clipping about three weeks in jar to grow strong healthy roots, changing the water periodically. After three weeks gently remove the stems and separate the roots between stems with your fingers. Each clipping should have a nice root ball. The new roots will be white in color. Plant the new rooted clipping in some good potting soil. Water it. Place the pot in a sunny window and water regularly but allow to dry out between watering. Maintain your new coleus on a window sill throughout the winter. Plant outdoors after all risk of frost has past ,start the process over again. Dandeny!
    
 "Coleus, Chocolate Mint 1 Pkt. (25 seeds)"
"Coleus, Wizard Mixed Colors 1 Pkt. (50 seeds)"
"Caladiums, Tropical Mix 12 Plants"
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Lupines'
Posted On 2011-04-16 , 7:34 PM
Lupines’ can be hardy annuals, half hardy annuals or hardy perennials.They reach from 30cm to 1.5 m in height depending upon species and variety. They have stiff erect spikes that carry pea like flowers. Lupine flowers are a variety of colours including purple, blue, pink, white and yellow. The perennial varieties of lupines’ come into bloom in the summer, annual varieties will flower about two months after being sown. Common names for Lupines’ include Lupin, Lupine, Bluebonnet and Texas Bluebonnet. Lupine, is a tall perennial with spiky flowers that add grace to any garden. It grows wild in many parts of the world. Lupines’ are easily recognized, with a distinctive leaf consisting of many narrow, pointed leaflets, and a tall spike with many individual flowers around the central stem. Even without the spiky blooms , the pal mated foliage and plants look like a small group of miniature palm trees
Lupines’ prefer to be in full sun but will grow in part shade. It is no good growing them under dark, dank trees in deep shade or waterlogged sites. Very chalky soils are not recommended, but anything else is acceptable. Lupin flowers at their best in May and June. A second flush can be encouraged by not allowing the first flowers to set seed and cut them as son as they have flowered. The tall 2’6″ spikes can be very striking in colours from white, deep purple through reds and yellows to various bi-coloured varieties.
Lupin plants grow well from seed which is hard and round like a small pea. I soak my seeds for a couple hours before planting them to a cell plastic pots, but fibre pots may be better to avoid root disturbance. Direct sowing or taking cuttings from new growth early in the year are other ways of propagating. Dandeny!
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Stella de Oro Daylilies
Posted On 2011-04-12 , 12:43 PM
 Stella de Oro daylilies are herbaceous root plants.Stella de Oro daylily is a compact plant and early bloomer, reaching a height of just 12" with a similar spread. Its ability to re-bloom over a long period, along with its adaptability to a wide range of planting zones and conditions, makes Stella de Oro daylily perhaps the most popular of the daylilies.Stella de Oro daylily will bloom beautifully if grown in full sun, however it will tolerate light shade, You can separate your Stella d'Oro day lilies in the spring after the last frost or in the fall about 30 days before the first frost. Gently lift the rhizomes out of the soil and gently work them apart. They separate quite easily and you should do this anyway every three years so the plants don't get overcrowded. Overcrowding reduces blooming and facilitates disease.Stella d’Oro was one of the first award-winning dwarf day lilies. You cannot beat the performance and adaptability of this plant! This will be not only one of the most rewarding plants in your garden, but will also provide you with beautiful and buttery yellow color for years to come.
Dig a hole deep enough for the root and bulb to be completely under the soil while leaving all of the stem above ground. Make it several inches wider than the root system to allow room for the roots to spread with becoming overcrowded.Place the root system into the hole, and re-cover with soil. Water deeply enough to dampen the soil several inches down. Dandeny!
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Vertical Garden
Posted On 2011-04-08 , 9:15 AM
Verticle Gardens: What can I say they speak for themselves. Beautiful accent to any patio, deck or flower bed. Small Space Gardening has become popular for gardeners with small backyards and those with small balconies. Gardener's are continuously coming up with concepts for implementing and maintaining functional vertical gardens, roof gardens with small space gardening solutions.Even if you have plenty of room, vertical gardening will help keep plants up off the ground. They can also be used to define garden areas, by creating interesting focal points and eye-pleasing boundaries. Dandeny!
       
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Hyacinths
Posted On 2011-04-05 , 7:28 PM
  Hyacinths are one of the bulbs in gardening interest, these extremely fragrant spring flowering bulbs are worthy of a place in your bulb garden. This bulb is popular because it is easy to grow, is extremely fragrant and comes in a wide range of colours. A member of the Lilly family, bright and bold Hyacinths are quite the travellers. We commonly think of Hyacinths as Dutch Bulbs originating in the Netherlands
Plant in a sunny location, in well drained soils. Excessive water will rot this bulb out. Plant the bottom of the bulb approximately 6 to 7 inches deep Plant 5 to 6 inches apart in clumps for a marvelous display.The bulb will grow in light shade, for example morning shade or late evening shade. If you grow them in the shadier sections of your garden, the individual blooms will last longer on the bulbs in the spring as the hot sun does tend to shorten the bloom time. The downside to this is that the bulb itself will not thrive in the shade and will die out. If you need flowers for a special spring event, mass plant them anywhere you like and treat this bulb as an annual flower. Grow as you would any spring flowering bulb, give lots of compost, do not water during the summer and allow the leaves to fully yellow and wither before you do any cultivating or cutting them back.
When making your bulb selections look for a solid, fat bulb. Avoid mushy bulbs or ones with any soft spots. Also check for a rotten smell. To make a nice area of hyacinths you should buy about a dozen bulbs. After they bloom in the spring, allow the plants to grow until the leaves die off. They need time after blooming to store energy in the bulbs for next year. To remove the dead plant, either snip them off at the base, or twist the leaves while pulling lightly. I love Hyacinths especially at the main entrance to your home. People who visit cannot hesitate to stop and smell the Hyacinths. I love them so much, my daughters middle name is Hyacinth. Dandeny!
Blue Festival Hyacinths
Giant Hyacinth Mixture
Giant Hyacinth Mixture
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Beneficial Bugs
Posted On 2011-03-31 , 7:01 PM
 
Some insects like the Ladybug and the Green Lacewing are called beneficial bugs because they are the good bugs who are on the hunt for the bad bugs that are feeding on your plants.
Green Lacewings are an all purpose beneficial insect that feed on insects such as aphids and other insects that will come and feed on your plants. Green Lacewings are perfect for a backyard garden, larger garden, or a greenhouse. The most popular beneficial insect are beetles they eat Aphids and Spider-mites and can be purchased readily in most nurseries. Don’t discount their black, alligator like larvae which eat up to a hundred aphids a day!
Minute Pirate Bug eat Trips‘, Corn Earworms, Aphids and Spider-mites. Though be careful not to pick these guys up as they have a nasty bite.
Predatory Mites feed on Trips and Pest mites.
Praying Mantis eat a lot of beneficial insects, so they are not recommended for your garden.
Rove Beetles feed on soil-dwelling insects like Root maggot eggs, larvae and pupae, especially those of Cabbage maggots and Onion Maggots. They also eat slug and snail eggs.
Soldier Beetles eat Aphids, Caterpillars, Corn Rootworms, Cucumber Beetles and Grasshopper eggs.
Spined Soldier Bugs eat the Larvae of Colorado Potato Beetles, Sawflies, Cabbage Loopers and Tent Caterpillars.
Tachinid Fly eat Caterpillars, Armyworms, Cornborers, Cutworms and Stinkbugs.
Tiger Beetle eat various soil-dwelling larvae.
Yellow Jackets feed the larvae of flies, Caterpillars and Grasshoppers to their young. Most of these beneficial insects can be purchased in a nursery or through mail order.
Dandeny!
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What is Eating My Lilies?
Posted On 2011-03-30 , 6:59 PM
 The biggest problem with lilies and insects is aphids. Aphids are a particular problem with potted lilies, probably because there aren't as many ladybugs inside. Ladybugs eat aphids and naturally reduce aphid populations.
Aphids feed on plant material and can cause holes in your lilies, but this isn't the only problem. If ladybugs are not available, there are multiple products on the market targeted at reducing aphid populations. People who have lilies think the it is the ladybug eating the lily, the fact is the aphid is the source of the problem. Lilies were probably purchased with the aphids on them. Frequent watering, or spraying with Neem oil will get rid of the problem. Sometimes a mild dish detergent containing lemon oil will also work. Companion gardening your lilies with cone flower [ Echinacea] will also work. Neither aphids or lady bugs tolerate the unique oils and scents this plant produces.
In any case, for years people have been right in their belief that ladybugs were good creatures. But what many gardeners know is that ladybugs are a great addition to both flower and vegetable gardens. They chow on aphids and whiteflies like a large family at a buffet! That's right: if you have scale insects in your garden, all you need is ladybugs.
The next avenue for attracting ladybugs is actually to just go get some. You could call around to nurseries or you could even order some ladybugs online. They are cheap and easy to introduce to the garden. Plan on setting them out there on a cool night, in fact you can refrigerate the bugs for a couple hours to slow them down before setting them out. Keep the plants wet for a few days in order to stop your ladybugs from migrating and to encourage them to make their home in your garden.
Ladybugs are predatory beetles that eat a large number of aphids and other harmful bugs. Even in the larval stage, ladybugs will normally consume hundreds of aphids and will grow into adults that may eat up to 5,000 aphids in a lifetime. This greatly reduces the population of harmful insects that will otherwise destroy your plants.Because ladybugs eat many of the insects that cause damage to garden plants, a good population of the beetles will prevent the need for harmful pesticides.
One of the qualities of a ladybug is its appearance. The deep orange to red shell with black dots, tiny black heads and wiry antennae make this beetle look like a piece of art. Ladybugs are among the best-dressed bugs in the garden. While having slugs drag slime across the garden floor may be a bit disgusting, having ladybugs crawl across the leaves of your roses or lilies just adds to the visual appeal.Dandeny!
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Oriental and Asiatic Lilies
Posted On 2011-03-29 , 8:38 AM
Oriental and Asiatic lilies are beautiful showy garden flowers, the Orien  tal Lily varieties are the showiest of them all. Of the species in the lily family, Oriental Lilies were selected for their most fragrant flowers. Oriental Lilies are native to China and Japan and are related to asparagus, lily-of-the-valley, daylily and hyacinth.Oriental Lilies are large, showy and fragrant flowers making them an excellent choice for fresh flower arrangements and popular wedding bouquet flowers.There are many Oriental Lily cultivars in a wide range of colours and patterned petals. The flowers are flattish and can be up to 10 inches across, pointing out or up from the stems. The fragrance of the Oriental Lily has been described as “heavenly”, “intoxicating” and “unforgettable”. Plant your bulbs in early spring, after the ground thaws, or fall before the ground freezes. Dig holes about 12 inches apart for each bulb. The top of your bulb should be 4 to 6 inches below the soil surface.
Growing Oriental Lilies
Fertilize lightly in the spring to ensure that there are plenty of nutrients in the soil for your lilies to feed on.
Water regularly throughout the spring and summer, as Oriental lilies grow best in a slightly moist environment.
Provide shade for your lilies if they receive several hours of hot, intense sun per day.
Spray your lilies carefully with a garden hose to remove insects such as aphids.
Stake the lilies if they grow very tall and cannot support their own weight. Place the stake firmly into the ground next to the plant.
Attach the plant to the stake using string, coated wire or specially made plant ties.
Dandeny!
Lilies on FloraFlora.com
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Top Selling Product: 100 Blooms of Peruvian Lilies
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Eucalyptus Plants & Trees
Posted On 2011-03-22 , 11:37 AM
  There are many of species of Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus can thrive in the harshest of environments, from the snow-covered mountains to the dry deserts. In Australia, the Eucalyptus is used as a food source for the Koala bear, as well as decorative pieces in floral arrangements.
Growing Eucalyptus requires choosing the variety that will grow well in your climate. The fast growing Eucalyptus is considered a cool-weather tree which will thrive in winters that stay above 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Smaller plants can be planted as houseplants after a couple years most people discard of them because they outgrow their environment.Indoor Eucalyptus plants should be placed in bright light but kept in a cool to warm environment. Indoor plants should be watered regularly with less watering during the winter months.
Outdoor Eucalyptus will have other factors that growers should consider. Most importantly, the tree or plant needs to be planted as soon as possible after purchasing. For climates that are prone to hot-dry summers, plant the Eucalyptus during the rainy season to early autumn.The Eucalyptus can adapt to almost any soil type. Outdoor Eucalyptus should be planted in a sunny location with plenty of room to expand. Some varieties do not require full sun but a majority of species of Eucalyptus do. Water the tree fully before and after planting. Water regularly after planting and you should not let the tree completely dry. . The Eucalyptus needs to grow a strong trunk system if it is to survive in windy conditions. After the tree has become established, it will require very little care.Growers who prune their Eucalyptus know that this tree will sprout new growth on the larger limbs when it is cut. However, it is extremely important to not prune Eucalyptus in the fall months if your area is prone to cold weather. The limbs that are pruned need time to heal as frost can damage the cut site which can kill the entire tree. Remove the lower limbs of the tree only after they have died naturally. The Eucalyptus is known to be top heavy and needs the lower limbs to keep it stable. Gardeners are shocked on how well the Eucalyptus tree adapts to different climate zones. The aroma of the leaves is enjoyed in floral arrangements and can be added to essential oils. The leaves are commonly used as a natural flea repellant in homes that have pets. Because of their beauty, the many uses and fast growth, the Eucalyptus tree is becoming one of the most popular trees among homeowners.
Eucalyptus has a variety of benefits here are a few:
Respiratory Problems: Eucalyptus essential oil is effective for treating a number of respiratory problems including cold, cough, running nose, sore throat, asthma, nasal congestion, bronchitis and sinusitis. Patients suffering from non-bacterial sinusitis showed faster improvement when given medicines containing eucalyptus oil. Gargles of eucalyptus oil mixed with warm water are effective on treating sore throat.
Wounds: Eucalyptus essential oil is a good antiseptic owing to its germicidal properties. Eucalyptus oil is used for healing wounds, ulcers, burns, cuts, abrasions and sores. It is also effective on insect bites and stings.
Muscle Pain: During muscle and joint pains, massaging eucalyptus oil on the skin surface helps in getting relief from the pain.The oil is massaged in circular motion on affected areas.
Dental Care: Eucalyptus essential oil is very effective against cavities, dental plaques, gingivitis and other dental infections due to its germicidal properties.
Skin Care: Eucalyptus oil is often applied topically to treat skin infections.
Fever: It is also used for treating fever and reducing the body temperature. Therefore it is also called fever oil.
Room Freshener: The antiseptic and deodorant nature of eucalyptus oil makes it a perfect room freshener for hospitals and sickbed atmosphere. It also kills bacteria and germs in the air and hence keeps the room environment clean.
Soaps: Eucalyptus oil has applications in soaps, detergents and household cleaners as well.
Mouth Wash: As mentioned above, the oil is a prime ingredient in many mouthwashes and toothpastes.
Sauna: Many people add eucalyptus oil to baths, spas and saunas due to its refreshing and antiseptic effect.
Bug Repellant: Half a teaspoon of eucalyptus oil mixed with a half litre or quart of water makes for a good bug repellent for spraying on plants.Dandeny!
 
Eucalyptus Essential Oil These 100% pure aromatic oils will improve your mood and clear your mind the natural way. The plant-derived fragrances are genuine, not artificial or manufactured so the scents are fresh and pure. Choose Peppermint to cheer holiday gatherings, Lavender to bring deep sleep, and Orange to freshen the air. Lemongrass enhances relaxation, Rose strengthens the heart, Eucalyptus improves mental clarity, and Rosemary relieves stress. Grapefruit is both soothing and uplifting, and Tea Tree promotes healing. 100% pure essential oil, natural and undiluted Handy built-in dropper 1/3 ounce bottles, except Rose Oil Rose Oil comes in a 1/6 ounce bottle and is 10% pure rose oil with scentless apricot kernel carrier oil Natural essential oils
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Flowers With Medicinal Purposes
Posted On 2011-03-16 , 3:47 PM
  I like flowers that look beautiful but also have a useful purpose.Nature has given us a variety of things like flowers fruits and more, that make us happy and pleasant. Flowers are one of the most beautiful things of nature. Apart from the traditional uses, flowers have medicinal uses too.
There are plants that can be used for medicinal purposes like:
Begonia Eliminate toxins, promote blood circulation, treat coughing of blood, and externally applied for trauma, burns, pain and toxic sores.
Calendula For ulcers, canker sores, menstruation pain, gum disease, sore throats, tonsillitis
Poppy Treats anxiety, sedative, nervous tension, sleeplessness, pain relief, menstrual cramps
Chrysanthemum Used to cure colds, fevers, headaches, eye inflammations and hypertensions. Good to drink in hot summer weather.
Cornflower Conjunctivitis, strained eyes
Dandelion Treats anaemia, jaundice, nervousness, blood purification
Honeysuckle The blossoms have antiviral and antibiotic properties, effective for all inflammatory conditions, sore throat. The stems and leaves are also used for arthritis.
Hyssop Eases congestion for colds and the flu, gargle for sore throats, reduces inflammation, heals cuts and bruises, herpes
Morning Glory The root can be used as a cathartic.
Nasturtium Fights bacterial infections, anti-microbial, respiratory infections, influenza, the common cold, reproductive and urinary tract infections
Plum flowers Can be used to cure cough and diarrhea. In traditional Chinese medicine, wumei (the smoked fruits) are believed to be effective against parasites, as well as in stopping ulcers and promoting a strong digestive system and heart.
Rose The petals can be used for cooling, blood circulating and anti-depressive.
Sunflower Ulcers, canker sores, menstruation pain, gum disease, sore throats, tonsillitis
Tiger Lily The bulbs are used to treat insomnia.
Valerian Relaxing, sleep aid, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, tension headaches, migraines, rheumatic pain relief, relaxes spasms, muscle and menstrual cramps
Viola Eczema, varicose veins, coughs, bronchitis, urinary problems, cystitis
Yarrow Can be used for a wide range of conditions including hangovers, externally for hemorrhage, menstrual cramps relief, colds, flu, eliminate toxins, aids digestion, cleansing, pain relief, swelling
These are just a few examples of how some flowers will aid with medicinal purposes. Mother Nature provides us with all we need we just need to learn how really kind she is to us.
Begonia
1.Use the infusion made with Begonia flowers for eliminating toxins from the body.
2.The infusion helps in promoting blood circulation.
3.Rub the flower on burns, pains and toxic sores.
Calendula
1.Use the essence of Calendula for relieving from menstruation pain, sore throats and tonsillitis.
2.Apply it on cancer sores and wounds for quick healing.
Poppy
1.It treats insomnia, nervous tension and anxiety.
2.It relieves from menstrual cramps and pain.
Chrysanthemum
1.The drink made with this flower cures cold and fevers.
2.Apply the drink with a cotton ball over the eyes for relieving the inflammations.
3.The drink relieves from headaches and hypertensions.
Corn flower
1.Rub the essence over the eyes for relieving conjunctivitis and strain.
2.Use the stem facial of this flower for facial skin eruptions and acne.
Dandelion
1.The infusion made with dandelion treats anemia, jaundice and nervousness.
2.It also purifies the blood.
Honey suckle
1.Gargling with the essence of this flower relieves sore throat.
2.It is also effective for all inflammatory conditions.
3.The blossoms are rich in antiviral and antibacterial properties.
4.The leaves and stems of this flower are useful for arthritis.
Hyssop
1.Gargling with the essence of this flower relieves sore throat and reduces inflammation.
2.It relieves from cold and flu.
3.Rubbing with the essence on cuts and bruises heals them.
Nasturtium
1.The infusion of this flower cures cold, influenza.
2.It fights against reproductive and urinary tract infections.
3.It fights against bacterial infections and respiratory infections.
Plum flowers
1.This flower is useful in curing cough and diarrhea
2.The smoke of this fruit is effective against parasites.
3.It is helpful in stopping ulcers.
Rose
1.Chew the petals for improvement in blood circulation.
2.The petals act as anti-depressive agents.
3.The petal tea cleanses the liver and gall bladder.
4.Infusion of this flower improves the efficiency of lungs.
Sunflower
1.The infusion of this flower relieves from menstruation pain and ulcers.
2.Gargling with the infusion relieves sore throat and tonsillitis.
3.It is a remedy for cancer sores.
Valerian
1.This flower relieves from anxiety and insomnia.
2.It is a remedy for migraines, tension headaches and rheumatic pains.
3.The essence of this flower relieves from muscle and menstrual cramps.
Viola
1.Apply the essence of this flower to cure eczema and varicose veins.
2.Take the infusion of this flower regularly to cure from coughs and bronchitis.
3.It is useful for urinary problems and cystic.
Yarrow
1.Use the infusion of this flower for upper respiratory phlegm.
2.Use it externally as a wash for eczema.
3.It is a remedy for cold and flu.
4.Smell this flower for hay fever and mild asthma.
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Peace Lily
Posted On 2011-03-06 , 11:06 AM
CLICK ON IMAGE GET YOURS TODAY!
 A common problem people face as Peace Lily growers is that it won't bloom. With just a few simple adjustments, you can have a Peace Lily blooming in a few weeks.
Peace Lilies are one of the most common houseplants found in homes today. Mainly because they are easy to grow, require little maintenance and have a beautiful foliage. A common problem faced by many people is that their Peace Lily doesn’t bloom or doesn’t bloom as often as they would like. Peace Lilies require certain atmosphere to produce a beautiful, healthy looking plant that will bloom often. With just a few simple adjustments, you can have a Peace Lily shooting out new spathes in just a few weeks.
The most common reason a Peace Lily doesn’t bloom is the light conditions. Peace Lilies are a tropical plant and require plenty of sun light. If your Peace Lily isn’t blooming simply move it near a window that gets bright light. A few hours of bright sunlight each day will help your Peace Lily get the energy it needs to shoot up dozens of beautiful new spathes
Irish Flowers for St Patricks Day - Also known as the peace lily; this dark leafy plant with its delicate white blossoms makes a simply elegant gift. There's nothing small about the sentiment delivered along with this pretty plant.
Dandeny Out!
Sears is going green
check it out.
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Viola Butterflies
Posted On 2011-02-17 , 8:06 PM
 Viola butterflies are of small herbaceous annuals, perennials, or small subshrubs. Many are grown in gardens for their sweet-faced flowers. Violets are found in most temperate regions of the world in a wide variety of habitats. They may be evergreen, semi-evergreen or deciduous. The leaves often appear near the ground to form rosettes, but some species have leafy stems and others creep They are variable in shape and color and may be whole, toothed or divided. A large number of species have heart-shaped leaves. They are beautifully displayed with Primroses, Auriculars, Orchids and African Violets. Dandeny!
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Bromeliads Cactus
Posted On 2011-02-04 , 2:29 PM
 Bromeliads are a beautifull houseplant, they are tolerant of low light, can be watered from overhead in their central cups, and feature beautiful flowers and foliage. Many people discard bromeliads after the bloom is complete, but with a little experience, one bromeliad can easily turn into a whole garden of these tropical plants.
Aechmea is one of the most resilient and longest-lasting of bromeliads, which might explain why it's also one of the most popular indoor bromeliads. These large, beautiful plants feature flowers and bracts that can last up to six months, and they and their offspring can be relatively easily kept for many years. Bromeliads multiply by sending up off-sets, or pups. In a natural growth cycle, a mature plant will send up a flower spike that includes small, sometimes insignificant flowers, surrounded by showy bracts. The flower bracts are often long-lasting sometimes for up to months. After the flower dies, the plant begins to die also, and over the next few months, will decline. However, the mother plant will send out one or several smaller pups at the base of the plant. These pups can be carefully cut off with snippers and potted up individually. Pups should only be potted up after they develop a few roots and begin to form the central cup characteristic to bromeliads. My bromeliad had her first new pup I am so excited it is so cute. Looks like she is going to have to more pups. The mother plant usually dies off, but this one doesn't look like she is going too. At the grocery store today they had a new shipment of these plants I was tempted to by a yellow one, but by the time I transfer my pups into their own pots I will have a bromeliad farm. Cannot wait to see how they will do outdoors.This is a very different indoor plant it is breath taking. The cacti flower is stuning. Dandeny!
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Are you ready for a emergency?
Posted On 2011-02-01 , 8:42 PM
America in Crisis Again!!!!
Just before Christmas my sister left to go to work and 5 minutes from home she hit a snow squall and was stranded for 24 hrs.. We could not get a hold of her on her cell phone, we hoped for the best. Lands out they made it to a local farm house. These people took in people in trouble all night. Like my sister was saying," What if nobody was around?" Some people were stranded in their vehicles for over 24 hrs., very scary.Truckers were stranded at Sarnia border all the way up to London, Ontario which is not very far from Detroit, that was a 40 minute backup. Wow! That is unbelievable. Are you ready if you get stranded in your car, hiking or even at home. Sometimes we have no warning on sudden storms. Emergancy Essentials Helping People Prepare…for over 20 years. Offering Food Storage, Emergency Kits, Water Filtration, First Aid, More (Meals Ready to Eat), Survival Kits, Camping Gear, disaster preparedness and more! We are committed to serving you with over 900 products! WE NEED TO BE MORE PREPARED!! Emergency help sometimes takes a long time to get to you. Don't let your family do without. Take Care Every one. God Bless Us All. In Our Time fo Need. Dandeny!
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Wild Birds
Posted On 2011-01-25 , 1:42 PM
I love birds, they are so beautiful and are nice accent to your garden. I have alot of birds on my property. Cardinals, King Fishers, Humming birds the list goes on. The humming birds are my favourite. It is amazing how they hover in one spot. In the spring I love to see the mothers with their chicks. Nature is surely a beautiful thing. I especially feel bad for them during the winter, they have hardly no feed. It is amazing how they can survive in the harsh weather. What would we do if we could not hear birds sing?
Dandeny!
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Aero Garden
Posted On 2011-01-21 , 3:05 PM
AeroGarden Extra Elite
AeroGrow International, Inc. is the creator, manufacturer and marketer of the AeroGarden line of indoor gardens for consumers. The AeroGarden no-dirt, no-mess Plug & Grow system makes gardening fun, easy, and foolproof. The AeroGarden is extremely popular for people that like to cook with fresh herbs or vegetables, gardeners that want to grow in the winter season and anyone that likes fresh flowers, herbs or vegetables year round. Also, the AeroGarden makes the perfect gift!
Aero Grow is also an excellant way for elderly who would like to enjoy fresh produce but cannot garden anymore. They can enjoy fresh vegetables plus it is an excellant hobby and pastime. Excellant way to teach children about gardening. They can start seedlings indoors an later transfer them outside.This is also beneficial for handy cap people who like to garden but cannot go outdoors . They'll take pride in planting their own vegetables with no fertilizers, insecticides or GMO's. Also excellant way to plant vegetable's and flowers for people who live in apartments. Aero Garden is for people who are not able to garden outdoors.
Save Up to 40% off Plus Free Shipping
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Money Tree
Posted On 2011-01-09 , 3:11 PM
 
Until money really does grow on trees, you can make a sound investment with a money tree that wishes prosperity to all who possess it. Lush and beautiful fresh money tree plant makes an impressive gift for the home or office Arrives in a striking ceramic pot; ceramic pot and drip tray may vary Large measures approximately 22-24"H Small measures approximately 12-14"H. My son in law has a money tree, but I trying to tell him money does not grow on tree's. Dandeny!
MONEY TREE
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Christmas Cactus Plants
Posted On 2011-01-06 , 9:15 AM
 
Every year since three years ago I treat myself to one plant that is out of norm for a household, usually. The first year I purchased my lucky bamboo, I purchased it when it was 6 inches tall now it is 4 ft. tall. The following year I purchased a Christmas cactus she doubled in size. This year I purchaced a flowering cactus. Within two weeks of purchasing the cactus she produced what I call her baby another shoot, it is now 7 inches tall. This cactus will grow quite huge so today I am moving her into a bigger pot. The bloom on this cactus is just breath taking. All of these plants are low maintenance. Lucky bamboo as long as roots are submersed in water it is happy, needs water about every six months. Christmas cactus I water once every two months. Dandeny!
"Christmas Cactus 1 Plant (Ships Now)"
Experience the wonder and excitement of a variety of plants in your own mini greenhouse. Cactus garden includes everything you need to grow your own floral cacti. Includes mini greenhouse habitat, seed planting tray, growing medium, shovel, seed packets and instruction book with activity poster.
For ages 5 and up.
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Window Herb Garden's
Posted On 2011-01-05 , 3:30 PM
During the winter months I like to do gardening projects inside. One of my favourite's is planting herbs. I get so much satisfaction in doing so. Plus the bonus is that I get fresh herbs for all my meals. I know exactly what I am eating. The prices for fresh herbs in the grocery store are over priced who can even afford to buy them. The question I always ask myself is where did they come from? How fresh are they? How long have they been packaged ect.? Atleast with my project I know exactly what I am getting.Have fresh herbs at hand year 'round with these four terra cotta pots nested in a woven reed basket, handmade by skilled artisans. Create a culinary herb garden in a sunny window Basket . Dandeny!
Windowsill Herb Pot
Self-Watering Windowsill Planter
Gourmet Herb, 6 Pod Seed Kit
Gourmet Herb, 6 Pod Seed Kit
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Christmas Preparation In Case of Emergency
Posted On 2010-12-13 , 2:24 PM
   We prepare ourselves for Christmas day. We decorate, we cook, we clean do our shopping for the big day. This is all fine but are you ready if you ever had a emergency. Well let me tell you two years ago we were not ready for a one week power outage. So do your self a favour this Christmas be prepared you never know when it will happen to you. Even when travelling you never know the weather could change on a dime. Dandeny!
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Christmas Tree's
Posted On 2010-12-12 , 1:26 PM
 I myself personally choose to use a artificial tree. The reason being is because I know and appreciate how long it takes for a mature tree to grow. It takes years. Tree's create clean air so why cut them down for one day. We need to start preserving our assets that mother nature has provided us with. Another point I have always tried to specify is if you use a artificial tree and decide you want to replace it for whatever reason try to donate it to a local school,daycare or a charity. this would eliminate it going to the landfill site. There are alot of people that cannot afford such a luxury.. Donate your tre put a smile on someone less fortunate's face. Dandeny!
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Best time for planting tree's!
Posted On 2010-10-13 , 2:02 PM
 This is the best time of the year to plant a tree. Tree's create oxygen this is why planting a tree is so important it create's clean air. Planning on helping the world go green plant a tree. Fall is also the time of the year to do any transplanting of tree's. Every year we always plant a tree. This year I planted a Colarado Blue Spruce. They grow rapidly and grow huge ensuring clean air for many years.
Many people do not have the opportunity to plant a tree. Organizations like the Wildlife Federation can help they have many plant a tree campaign's such as this jellewery collection one. Dandeny!
 
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It's Bulb Planting Time
Posted On 2010-09-21 , 9:54 AM
 First day of fall is tomorrow it is time to plant all your favourite bulbs. I learned the hard way when I first planted bulbs. I purchased my bulbs in a local department store, planted all my bulbs. I waited all winter dreaming on how beautiful it would look like. Well guess what, come spring I had the odd one come up. I was very disappointed. Now I purchase my bulbs through Dutch garden's it is not anymore costly then other store's. What I like about them is they ship them right on time for your fall planting. Now I have beautiful flourishing spring flowers. Holland is the specialist when it come's to bulb planting. So why not choose the best your garden will love you. Dandeny!
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Apple Tree's
Posted On 2010-09-17 , 7:48 AM
 Apple's Tree's are a beautiful asset to anyone's yard. In the spring they flower in many range's of colors come spring time. In the fall you end up with delicious fruit. The end of summer early fall is the time to prune your trree. Trim branch's that didn't produce apple's or trim branche's to shape the tree the way you would like it. In the spring just as first buds start to show spray tree well with dormant oil to kill any infestation that may of occured during the winter. I have one tree that is slower then the other. So far my first tree has produced many bushel's of apple's. My is ready to harvest now. I am expecting the same amount. Did you know that if you eat a apple a day the will burn off alot of fat acids in your body. Eating one apple a day can be beneficial for anyone who is trying to diet to lose weight. Apple pie's, apple sauce, cook apple's with pork chop's. Our family favourite is apple crisp. Apple's are simple to freeze just peel them cut into slice's place in freezer bag and there you go apple's for the winter. Apple's can also be kept in cold storage for most of the winter. They usually do not last very long in any household. Baked apple's with raisin's in the oven along with apple bread pudding are wonderfulwinter deserts that are healthy for you and very simple to make. At halloween candied apple's are our favorite treat. My Apple trees they are my babies I just love them. They can be trimmed all winter, if you see a branch that is bugging you cut it off. Dandeny!
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Harvest Keeping
Shop accessories to preserve home grown fruit and vegetables. Drying racks, canning equipment and more.
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Garlic Cllips
Posted On 2010-06-09 , 12:07 PM
  Deer and rabbits have a sense of smell a hundred times greater than ours, so just imagine how they react to these powerful garlic repellent clips! They're made with a concentrated garlic oil that is 1,000 times stronger than garlic juice, yet is organic and completely safe. Most garden damage is caused by just a few scoundrels: Check out our 10 Least-Wanted Pests Attach handy clips to trees and shrubs Garlic odor gets out, but rain can't get in so clips last up to six months 3-1/4 L x 1/2" diameter Set of 25 Use one clip every 1 to 2 feet, depending on the severity of the problem. Garlic is also a perfect insecticide for your organic garden. Dandeny! 
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Gladiolus Flower's
Posted On 2010-05-12 , 8:53 AM
  Glad's are a beautiful flower the will accentuate any flower when used in background .Named for the shape of their leaves, gladioli – from the Latin word “gladius,” meaning sword – have a history than spans from Africa to the Mediterranean. Symbolizing strength and moral integrity, gladioli also represents infatuation, that they pierce the giver’s heart with passion. Striking and colorful with towering stems, this August flower calls for emotions and passion. A 40th wedding anniversary flower that conveys the drama of Roman gladiators. Dandeny!
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Day Lily
Posted On 2010-05-11 , 9:24 AM
  Day lilies are a perfect choice flower for me. I have a huge flower bed in my front yard so I planted day lilies. Maintenace free is what I need. Every year they keep multiplying and are getting bigger.. What I like the most about day lilies is they start early spring and last til fall. They are true beauties Once you plant a daylily you just sit back and enjoy.every gardener's dream. Dandeny!
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Geranium's
Posted On 2010-05-04 , 12:39 PM
 Geranium's are a beautiful plant that gives me a lot of pleasure all summer long. You can buy them in a select variety of colors. My favourite color is coral. It is a very fibrant color. My mother loves geranium's I guess I inherited it from her. A trick she taught me is if you pick off a few leaves a day it will grow fuller and produce more flowers. Geranium's are nice planted with a spike behind it. Every Mother's day this is what buy my Mother a beautiful Geranium. Her favourite color is red. Geranium's enjoy a light watering on a daily basis.I like to give them a light fertilizing once every two weeks with organic miracle grow The Ivy geranium is one of the most beautiful of geranium's. Dandeny!
 
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Soil Preparation
Posted On 2010-04-29 , 12:00 PM
 To be successful when gardening all plants thrive from the soil. Soil preparation is very important to have vigorous results. When I prepare my soil I start by using my compost first, mixing it in my gardening beds. Lime and bone meal are the next ingredients I use to prepare my soil. Lime sweetens the earth meaning it controls the acid and bone meal promotes growth. Organic no fertilizers. After this I am ready to plant my organic vegetable garden along with my flower beds. This has got to be the first rule of thumb nothing will grow well if you have poor soil. Sometimes over the winter if the soil hardens I just add a little peat moss to soften the ground so roots have a better chance of rooting. Roots will struggle if soil is to hard.
Dandeny!
Bone Meal, 1 lb.
HYDRATED LIME 10#
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