Environment | Home Grown

Planning Your Garden Redesign

Image via Wikipedia

When you plan to redesign your flower garden, the first thing you need to consider is how and where you will be putting the plants. There are a number of reasons that a gardener may want to redesign a garden such getting rid of old flower beds or to prevent overcrowding. Moving plants that have already taken root is very similar to transplanting a seedling that began indoors then was transferred to an outside garden. Sometimes gardeners have to deal with the added expense of redesigning a garden. When extra cash is not available, using a prepaid credit card can be helpful to ensure all the supplies are available.

There are times when an old garden bed that has been constructed of wood may begin rotting or a plastic, cement or brick flower bed begins to crack or crumble. During these times, take the opportunity to redesign your garden and also save portions of your old flower bed in order to make a new one. You should also make sure you have adequate amounts of healthy soil which means if you haven’t practiced changing your soil or compost annually with a completely new supply, do so now.

After you have removed the plants that you plan to keep, removed unwanted plants, above-ground level soil, and bed structures, you can take apart your wooden flower beds and save the nails for reuse with your new bed later. You can also reuse cement blocks and bricks and any plastic bedding structure from an old bed, then dispose of broken or rotting materials. Your new bed can be made of new materials as well as old materials. If you are adding an in-ground flower bed, you can use a wagon wheel for added structure.

Filed Under: Environment, Gardening Tagged With: Garden, Plant, Soil

Adding Koi to Your Water Garden

Thinking of a adding a flashy garnish to your backyard water garden?

Consider adding a companion that will make your backyard the talk of the neighborhood. Adding Koi to your pond provides a flashy and interesting addition to water gardens with the added bonus of giving your pond a low maintenance pet. Koi are a variety of carp that were originally found in Asia. The fish are know for their color and distinctive markings.

Koi are distinguished by their color, patterns and scales. While traditional Koi varieties have been around for centuries breeders are coming up with new hybrids every year. Koi have been developed for centuries to become more visually appealing. The ghost variety of Koi became popular in the 1980s.

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Despite all of the cross breeding meant to produce a more picturesque fish, the species remains durable. Koi are sturdy cold weather fish that adapt well to shifts in temperate. Even though Koi are tough it take properly constructed ponds to keep the fish alive through harsh winters. Koi almost entirely shut down during winter and eat next to nothing.

Ponds need to be deep enough for fish to retreat to in the winter. Covering the pond and providing the fish with a heat source also help. With a certain amount of care Koi will be companions for a long time. Koi can live for centuries. One famous Koi lived for more than 200 years.

Low maintenance, longevity and their nature beauty make Koi an ideal addition to a backyard water garden. Just keep them in your yard, Koi revert back to carp and are considered invasive if released into the wild.

Filed Under: Environment, Gardening Tagged With: Koi, Pond, Water garden

Nudging the Nosey Neighbor Out of Your Life

Unless you live in a remote area of the world, you probably have to deal with nosey or annoying neighbors. While the majority of the time you can ignore that rude or nosey neighbor, it is especially hard to ignore them when they ambush you while you are working on a gardening project and complain about anything from the position of your fence to the smell of your compost pile. It seems that these types of neighbors know that they have a captive audience and that you cannot get away from their complaining. If you are currently in a situation like this, there are a few things that you can do to try to ease the situation and improve your relationship with your neighbor.

The first solution to solving the problem with your neighbor is to try to appease them by doing what they ask. If your neighbor complains that they can smell the compost pile, try moving it to another section of the yard. If they complain about the tree branches, try trimming them off the neighbor’s yard. While it might not help your relationship, it will ease the tension a little.

Another solution to solve your complaining neighbor problem is to try to win them over with kindness. If you notice that your neighbor seems to complain a lot about your compost pile, consider offering to show them what they can do with the compost pile. Offer to give them a little of the compost so that they can see how well their plants will grow. This will allow them to see why you engage in the activities that you do and could help ease any tension that was growing.

If appeasement and winning them over with kindness don’t work, the only other solution to the problem is to start looking at moving quotes and find a new home with friendlier neighbors!

Filed Under: Environment, Home Improvement Tagged With: Compost, Garden, Home

Reduce Your Grocery bill with Active Gardening

If you’ve ever gone to the grocery store and been disappointed when the checker rings up the total, you have three options. Stop Eating, switch grocery stores or supplement your food supply with fruits and vegetables that you created through active gardening.

While switching grocery stores might help a little, not eating is out of the question so that leaves gardening.

If you’re a new homeowner, one of the first things you have to determine is what kinds of trees you are going to plant. Planting several cherry and apple trees might seem like a waste of time, they take at least ten years to bear fruit in some cases, but your family will be saving money when the fruit trees pays dividends. Who doesn’t like a fresh apple from the tree or the cherry or apple desserts that come with fruit trees?

Most homeowners cherish the space they have in their back yards. Even a 12 x 12 foot garden doesn’t take up that much space from the yard and the amount of vegetables produced can save the average family hundreds of dollars, especially during the summertime.

If you’re one of those non green thumbs that feel like you just can’t keep the house plants alive, gardening is usually pretty simple. Till a piece of land, make sure it is relatively free of weeds and grasses and start planting.

Some of the easiest vegetables to maintain are those that have already been started at the local store. Tomatoes that are six inches high, as opposed to planting from seeds, are likely to do better and reach fruit bearing state quicker. Carrots, cabbage, green beans, zucchini and radishes are all relatively easy to grow from seeds.

If the high price of fresh vegetables and fruits has you pinching pennies it’s time to do something about it. Many internet sites have tips that can be extremely helpful for the beginning gardener.

Filed Under: Environment Tagged With: Garden, Grocery store

Earning a Degree in Ecology

I’ve become so moved by the green movement that I’m thinking about doing more than just recycling my newspapers and aluminum cans. Can you believe, at my age, I’m thinking about going back to school? My job doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, and I’ve been reading about all the latest opportunities in all the new environmentally-friendly industries. With a degree in Ecology, I could finally have a job that I love and believe in! Who knows? I might even end up becoming a rich entrepreneur with my own business! I’ve really wanted to start designing rooftop gardens or building my own aquatic water garden. An Ecology degree will fit right in.

The only thing holding me back right now is my family. Of course, they support my goals, but it’s not like I can just quit my job and go to school full time. If I did, it wouldn’t take long before our savings would be gone. After all, just because I’m gong to school, it doesn’t mean we don’t have to pay the mortgage or put food on the table. With a full-time job, it’s just not going to be possible for me to go to a regular college.

I’ve been looking around on the Internet for a part-time program with night or weekend hours, and there’s just not much out there. I could take one, or maybe two, classes a semester and be about a million years old when I graduate. By then, I’d be ready for retirement. One thing I did find was this site that explains all about online degree programs. I’m pretty sure it was called earnmydegree.com. Anyway, it listed all kinds of programs that I can actually afford. The online classes would work out perfectly because I can study when it’s good for me! I’m still looking, but I really think this is what I’ll be doing this fall!

Filed Under: Environment, General Tagged With: Colleges and Universities, E-learning, Education, Full-time, Gardens, online degree programs, Roof garden, Student

The art of saving seeds

ContentFinished with that tomato? Don’t throw it away, save its seed. In light of the recent recession many individuals have resorted to the practice of seed saving which consists of taking the seeds from full-grown crop and re-planting them at the proper time. Seed saving allows the individual to purchase one package of seeds and enjoy a lifetime harvest.

In order to properly save a seed one must first take one from fully-grown fruits and vegetables. After erecting the seed, the fibers attached must be thoroughly rinsed, and the seed must be placed on a screen or plate to dry. The drying process usually takes a month, so it is important to save the seed with the harvesting schedule of the plant in mind. One should not save a fall harvesting-seed at the end of the fall season because the seed may go bad before its harvest time rolls around again which defeats the point in saving the seed to begin with.

After they have completely dried, the seed should be place in a dry, cool, and dark place. The seeds should not be planted immediately unless it is harvest time. Ignoring such rule can lead to disastrous results involving poor crop, and the plant could ultimately die.

When properly practices, saving seeds can save an immeasurable amount of money. Individuals who take part in the practice often comment on how it has afforded them the opportunity to purchase a plant one time and reap the benefits for years to come. Imagine the idea of being able to purchase a bag of tomato seeds at Farmers Market on January 2011, and harvesting crop from that one bag through December 2021! A simple act of saving one seed per tomato may turn this imagination into reality.

If money is a factor in the gardening experience, then saving seeds is the way to go.

Filed Under: Environment Tagged With: Crop, Farmers' market, Harvest, Plant, Proper time, Seed, Seed saving, Tomato

Tree survival: What makes those green things thrive?

ContentTrees beautify the yard, and provide shade to millions of individuals each day. While most trees are desirable to the average gardener, some trees cannot survive under certain weather conditions. Before purchasing another tree, it is essential to be aware of the elements that make five of the most popular trees thrive.

Although not always acknowledged by name, the Chamaecypans Lawsoniana Ellwoodi tree looks like a full pine tree and makes a real mess in the yard, leaving the gardener with hours of work. In addition to requiring the gardener’s attention for cleanup, the Ellwoodi also requires the sun’s attention. In contrast to some plants that can be placed anywhere in the garden, the Elwoodi must be in a place where the sun is beaming directly on it in order to reach its 15 foot mark.

Since it requires immense exposure to the sun, the Ellwoodi should not be placed near the Amaryllis; the plant that is commonly identified as a white tulip. Like the Ellwoodi, this plant also requires central attraction, and must be in a place where it can be recognized and admired. The Amaryllis also requires moisture, but not wetness, to thrive.

In complete contrast to both the Amaryllis and Ellwoodi, the Italian Stone Pine and Rosemary Bush shaped like a tree do not come with special survival directions. The Rosemary Bush can easily survive drought and the Italian Stone Pine grows up to 80 feet with little maintenance involved. The Stone Pine may also be used as a Christmas tree, and the Rosemary Bush shaped like a tree may grow wild. The only major warning that comes with a Rosemary Bush is that of excess water; over water the plant, and it dies.

Among the five popular trees, the Ice Punch Poinsettia, looks like a red flower plant, is the weakest link with its poor survival rate and dire need of tender-loving-care.

Filed Under: Environment Tagged With: Agriculture and Forestry, Christmas tree, Gardens, Horticulture, Ornamentals, Plant, Tree, Trees and Shrubs

Raising Chickens at Home

: Image via Wikipedia

The trend of having chickens at home is becoming increasingly popular among people. Although the idea of raising chickens at home is bit strange as they are usually kept at poultry farms where the basic purpose is not to love them but to keep them to get their eggs or to ultimately kill them to be eaten in our curries and grilled foods. By raising chickens at home people not only get closer to this beautiful creature but can get many other benefits.

Getting organic eggs is one of the biggest advantages of raising chickens at home. The eggs that we usually buy from supermarkets are not organic. Even if the stores are selling organic eggs; they are so expensive that we are left with no option to buy inorganic eggs. The inorganic eggs are not a healthy option of course as the chickens that have produced those eggs are fed special chicken food that itself is inorganic and contains hormones to make the chickens to lay more eggs. The inorganic eggs contain the traces of the hormones that are fed to the chickens and hence are accountable for many health disorders and hormonal changes in humans themselves.

By raising chickens at home, you not only give them a chance to get raised naturally but can also get organic eggs depending upon the food that you select to feed your chickens. The best idea is to raise them naturally on organic food and to give them all the rights that any living creature deserves.

To raise chickens you might need one or many chicken coops depending upon the number of chickens that you are looking to raise. If you want to raise few chickens then you need a small place and a small chicken coop. However, if you are looking to raise a large number of chickens then you must have a large place, more specifically a poultry farm and as many coops as you need.

Although raising chickens at home is not effortless but doing so you’ll feel closer to that beautiful species of birds while getting their love in turn i.e. organic eggs.

Filed Under: Environment, Technique Tagged With: Chicken coop

Choose a Water Garden

: Image by brewbooks via Flickr

Tropical or Rain Garden?

Now that you’ve decided to install a water garden into your outdoor living space, it’s time to choose what type of plants you desire. There are a variety of gardens that all require anywhere from light gardening to time consuming gardening. From King Tut bog plants that grow deep roots in your pond to stabilize the floating flowers above, to the waterlilies and lotus blooms that gently glide on top of the water. A rain garden requires a great deal of water, as does a tropical garden, so consider your regions abundance of water before making your choice.

Have a Plan and get Help

A good plan is to visit your local do-it-yourself home center where knowledgeable help and a range of fountains, ponds and waterfalls will be found. Consider the size of the space available and make sure to pick a bright, sunny spot with no trees that will drop their leaves into the pond. Once you install the components, you’re ready to set your plants into the water and surrounding soil. Colorful blooms will entice hummingbirds, butterflies and birds to your sanctuary, so try a variety around the pond. When you’re ready, turn on the water to gently flow and trickle across the stones of your waterfall. Now breathe in the sweet fragrance.

Enjoy the Butterflies and Fragrance

Now’s the time to invite friends, family and neighbors over–you’ll never tire of their excitement and desire to have an oasis of their own. Just send them to the home center to chose their own waterfall, pond and lovely flowers. You may consider adding ornamental fish or other water creatures, but check with your new friends at the home center for a filter and water conditions first. You’ve done such a good job, who needs a vacation–just step outside and experience the wonder of nature.

Tropical or Rain Garden?
Now that you’ve decided to install a water garden into your outdoor living space, it’s time to choose what type of plants you desire. There are a variety of gardens that all require anywhere from light gardening to time consuming gardening. From King Tut bog plants that grow deep roots in your pond to stabilize the floating flowers above, to the waterlilies and lotus blooms that gently glide on top of the water. A rain garden requires a great deal of water, as does a tropical garden, so consider your regions abundance of water before making your choice.
Have a Plan and get Help
A good plan is to visit your local do-it-yourself home center where knowledgeable help and a range of fountains, ponds and waterfalls will be found. Consider the size of the space available and make sure to pick a bright, sunny spot with no trees that will drop their leaves into the pond. Once you install the components, you’re ready to set your plants into the water and surrounding soil. Colorful blooms will entice hummingbirds, butterflies and birds to your sanctuary, so try a variety around the pond. When you’re ready, turn on the water to gently flow and trickle across the stones of your waterfall. Now breathe in the sweet fragrance.
Enjoy the Butterflies and Fragrance
Now’s the time to invite friends, family and neighbors over–you’ll never tire of their excitement and desire to have an oasis of their own. Just send them to the home center to chose their own waterfall, pond and lovely flowers. You may consider adding ornamental fish or other water creatures, but check with your new friends at the home center for a filter and water conditions first. You’ve done such a good job, who needs a vacation–just step outside and experience the wonder of nature.

Filed Under: DIY, Environment, Gardening, Landscaping Tagged With: Home, Pond, Water garden

Making Money With Your Garden

: Image by Getty Images via @daylife

Having a garden is a great way to relax and spend some time with nature now and then. However, most people don’t realize that having a garden can also be an additional revenue stream. You can grow your own plants and vegetables in your garden and sell them locally. In fact, there are a number of ways you can make money from your garden.

If you grow your own vegetables, you can grow a selection and sell that at your local market. People love fresh, home made produce and selling your vegetables is a great way to make money. If you grow certain types of fruit you could even make smoothies out of them and serve it as a refreshing drink. Who knows—after a few years of running a market stall you might have enough customers to start your own company!

To make some real money, you really need to plant perennials. These are plants which that live for longer than two years and can be split up and divided in order to increase your product. Once you have split the plant up into smaller flowering plants, you are free to sell them. You can do this on the Internet or again at your local markets. Make sure you check the prices of the competition at garden centers and other retailers to ensure that you are not pricing yourself out of the market.

If you find that your business is thriving and you decide you might want to make gardening your full time career, why not take a course to learn more? There are many courses you can take to improve your gardening knowledge, such as a course in landscape gardening or business management to ensure you can handle the accounts. You can use services like those at educationforadults.com to find a suitable degree that will help your new business grow.

Filed Under: DIY, Environment, Gardening, Home Improvement, Technique Tagged With: Garden, Home, Plant, Vegetable