compost

Most people think plants love summer – but that’s not exactly true.  Summer can mean more bugs, too much sun, too little water, and too high heat, and some plants handle these hurdles a little better than others.  Even for plants that don’t thrive in the throes of summer, there are things you, the gardener, can do to help them get through the heat.  Here’s a list of 11 essential tips for every summer gardener.

Tip 1: Place birdbaths throughout your garden.

The kitchen has become more than just a space in which to prepare the next meal. Today (unlike in the past, when the kitchen was more functional than for entertaining), the kitchen is central to the home; a gathering place. And likewise, the kitchen is an expression of one’s style and values. Some folks love a sleek design, others a more country kitchen style.

Garden planning can be exciting, fun, and challenging all at the same time. It requires us to map out and strategize the what, where, when and how of our garden.  When done correctly, the process can help us yield an awesome harvest. Whether you are designing a simple flowerbed or a complex veggie garden, here are 10 important tips that will help make your garden planning a little easier.

I know it’s cliché, but the phrase “there are starving children in ____” is repeated over and over with good intentions. There are starving children everywhere, but your momma was just trying to help teach you a lesson about being grateful for what you have. It’s impossible for some kids to appreciate food security simply because they have not experienced it; not everyone always has food waiting for them on a dinner plate like many of us do.

The first time I saw a seed bomb it was in a Facebook video. Literally, I’ve been obsessed ever since. They are just the cutest things, so easy to make, and the best way to safely refurbish vacant lots. You can make a bunch of them and toss them in areas that really need more plants without having to worry about someone seeing. Since they decompose on their own, nature will take care of the rest. Unfortunately, you never know what is or isn't private property, so seed bombs are the ultimate discreet way of planting something (without spending much money or leaving any evidence).

We often hear about tea being used for its many health qualities for the body, but did you know that tea can be beneficial for your home garden as well? It’s called compost tea, and here are six great gardening benefits you can gain from using it!

As winter approaches there is a lot of work that has to be done in order to prepare. I usually start with the garden.

Depending on where you live and if the regulations within your area permit, you may want to consider owning organic livestock. Livestock can be anything from smaller animals such as poultry  or rabbits to larger animals like goats, cows, pigs, and sheep. Having livestock actually yields many benefits for growing plants.  Here are 5 advantages to having your own organic livestock for your home garden.  

Sustainable gardening is a green-gardening practice that is quickly increasing in modern popularity. The whole concept wrapped around the idea of sustainable gardening is eco-harmony. Sustainable gardening means working with nature and the environment, and not against it. By being conscious of how you impact the environment and preserve our earth’s resources when gardening, you are greatly contributing to the harmony and balance of this planet.

I’ve said it before; I’ll say it again. Having healthy soil is essential to a successful garden. It is always wise to regularly test the pH levels and check which nutrients you be missing in your soil. This can be done by utilizing a soil-testing kit. If your soil does require a health-adjustment, rest assured there are many organic, natural ways to better your gardening soil.  Here are 10 ways to help you improve your garden’s soil.