Grow Chili Pepper Plants From Seed

Grow Chili Pepper Plants From Seed
By Aaron Hickey

Once you decide what kind of peppers you want to grow, you need to get some seeds. You can find a variety at the supermarket in the spring time or the gardening section of any home repair store. If you want to grow an exotic species, you may have to buy your seeds online. An easy way to gather your seeds is to buy the type of chilies you want to grow at the supermarket. You can scrape out the seeds and grow them. Rinse them off and lay them on paper towels to dry. Be sure to wear protective gloves when handling hot peppers and wash your hands thoroughly when done harvesting the seeds.

Before planting, you will need to germinate your seeds. The main requirements for the seed to germinate are heat, moisture and oxygen. Start the process by layering them between moist, not wet, paper towels and placing them in a plastic bag. Seal the bag and place it in a warm location, the top of the refrigerator works well. Germinating first helps to speed up the growing process. Keep the seeds moist and in the plastic until they start to swell or sprout. This process should only take a day or two.

Conditions need to be right in order for the seedlings to grow. Chile peppers grow best in warm sunny climates. The perfect temperature is 23-30 degrees Celsius (about 73-86 degrees Fahrenheit). They need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, but more is even better. All peppers originally come from tropical locations so you should try to create that type of environment for them.

If you live in a warm climate, you can plant the germinated seeds directly into the ground. If you live in a cool region, you can start the plants indoors. When all danger of frost has past, transplant the sprouts outside. Do not start with a large container as this will encourage more root growth and less growth in the stems and leaves.

Plant your starters in small containers filled with potting soil. Fill your pot � full of soil then add the sprout, cover with a � inch of soil and water. Do not over water as you just want the soil to be moist at this stage. Cover the containers with plastic wrap. Doing this will help your sprouts to grow faster. The plastic wrap will hold in the heat and moisture, and you will not need to water them as often. Place the covered pots in a warm, sunny place, like a windowsill.

Following these guidelines will produce strong, hardy sprouts. During the germination stage and the first planting, your chilies do not require a lot of time or attention. All you need to do is check them about every other day to make sure they are moist and warm. The sprouting time will vary depending on the type of pepper you selected, usually between 2-4 weeks. When the plants begin to show above the soil, you will be ready to start the next phase of growing your chili peppers.

You have grown your chili seeds into sprouts, what comes next? During the next stage, your plants will require a little more care and attention. You do not have to be a garden guru to be successful. Your sprouts will need more direct light at this stage. A windowsill or outdoor greenhouse is perfect. Here are some tips to get your sprouts from starters to fruit bearing plants.

Once the seedlings appear above the soil, remove the plastic covering. Your baby chilies will grow two sets of starter leaves. The seed leaves and the true leaves. Pepper plants usually grow their leaves in pairs. When the first set grows in, go ahead and clip them off. These leaves are not necessary and only take away from the energy your plants need to grow. Keep the soil moist, not wet, and continue to give the sprouts plenty of light, at least 6 hours a day.

When the true leaves appear, it is time to re-pot the sprouts. Keep the containers small, no bigger than 4-6 inches in diameter. Fill the pots about half full of fresh soil. Gently pull the sprouts from the starter pots and place in the new soil. Add soil around the stems until the pots are about � full. Water just enough to moisten them and place in a well-lit area. Your plants will need to be watered more frequently at this stage. Check the soil every other day. If the leaves start to turn brown around the edges, they are getting too much water.

Your will need to transplant your peppers one more time. You need to re-pot them when the roots start to grow through the drainage holes in the containers. If you are going to grow them in an outside garden make sure, all danger of frost has past. Peppers also do well in container gardens either indoors or out. Get the plants ready to move outdoors by placing them outside, in the sun, for a few hours every day.

At this stage, you can begin fertilizing your chilies. Choose a fertilizer that has the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Tomato food works well for peppers. Buy the liquid fertilizer and mix half what the directions call for with water. Feed your plants every other watering and they will produce more peppers. The plants will be susceptible to insects, like aphids, during this time. You can use a mild insecticide as needed.

With proper care, your plants will soon start to grow flowers. These flowers are the first stage of the pepper pods. How long this takes, depends on the type of chili you planted. The flowers are usually white or yellow in color and not very large. Pollination is the process that turns the flowers into chili pods.

If your plants are outdoors, bees will pollinate the chilies naturally. When growing them indoors, you will need to pollinate them yourself. You can do this by using the end of your pinky finger and gently rubbing it on the flowers. Another way is to use a small paint brush. Either method will work and ensure that your plants will bear fruit.

As the pod develops, you will notice the center of the flowers turning green and swelling. Soon the flowers will fall off, and you will see the chili pods developing. Continue to care and nurture your plants. Water and feed them as necessary and make sure they get plenty of light. In no time, you will be able to harvest and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Hey guys, my name is Aaron and I love growing chili plants. Come visit my blog at http://growchilipepper.com for more great information. Here you will find absolutely everything you'll ever need to know to how to growing chili pepper plants and feel positive about starting a hobby incredibly fast. You'll have fresh peppers in weeks, experience the satisfaction of growing your own.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aaron_Hickey
http://EzineArticles.com/?Grow-Chili-Pepper-Plants-From-Seed&id=8766032

My Kitchen Garden

My Kitchen Garden
By Deekshikka Ashok

A day in my garden has always been beautiful and quiet. I have always been a nature lover and will always be so for the rest of my life. God's prettiest creations are here only for us to enjoy and get the most out of it. To me, nature and its beauty start right from our kitchen garden!

To make it more pleasant and healthy, human beings should start cultivating more and more of healthy fruits and vegetable sin their own kitchen garden. So that, they can reap the maximum benefits out of it.

To start off with, the basic necessity vegetables like onions, tomatoes, coriander and curry leaves should be cultivated. Making gardening as a hobby rather than a passion is important for Indians. We must start loving plants and be friendly to nature right from our kitchen garden. Only this will prevent people from going for deforestation and things like that.

By cultivating more plants in our garden, we can not only use it for our daily cooking but also, inspire many of our neighbors to do the same and thus help the country being kept green. This is also very important to make sure that our next generation lives happily and healthy without any water scarcity. Planting is not only a hobby for most of the women, but it is also a very good physical exercise as it involves huge efforts.

Watering plants will also make sure your mind is active and aware that the plants wait for you every day in the morning and evening. There are people who even talk to plants and nurture them. Some even say plants react to people's emotions. According to me, your garden is the most soulful place in your house. It has emotions, feelings, soul and happiness.

Birds flock together every day at your garden and chirp at your trees and take back the waste you throw back at your kitchen as their food. You start watering plants and keep them fresh, so the birds also get a life from your garden. They stay and build nests and fertile their gender. This brings the utmost joy for one self. What more will you need when there is healthy and calm surrounding with greener life around you. You can make sure; you stay fit and healthy only with these signs of nurture.

With this note, I think I have made myself clear that all of us, should start planting trees and make our environment a better place to stay in. So do not wait anymore, start cultivating this habit and teach your children to follow the same.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Deekshikka_Ashok
http://EzineArticles.com/?My-Kitchen-Garden&id=8776304

Health Benefits of Indoor Gardening

Health Benefits of Indoor Gardening
By Diane M Gove

Indoor plants are good for you, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes indoor gardening is your only option. Whether it's wintertime or you live in a place where you have no outside plot, only having indoor space is just fine for you to get your hands dirty and happy. It will also be beneficial to your health.

If you have never gardened before explore the options for a way that appeals to you. There are herb gardens, terrariums, water gardens, container plants, and other creative ideas available.

There are many reasons indoor gardening can benefit you. Digging in the soil can really boost your serotonin levels. There is a strain of bacterium in soil that triggers it's release. The serotonin increases your mood and decreases your stress and anxiety. Therefore, there IS true pleasure in your puttering around the garden.

Indoor plants can greatly improve the air quality by filtering out VOC's (volatile organic compounds) which are chemicals that emit scents and odors that can be dangerous to us and the environment. They are not severely toxic, but can have long-term health effects. Most man-made VOC's come from solvents, raw gasoline, and car exhaust.

Asthma, bronchitis, and COPD can be aggravated by these VOC's. Plants will not only improve the air quality by giving off oxygen and filtering air toxins, they can lower your blood pressure, and decrease your stress. That, in turn, increases the body's ability to handle these chronic diseases easier.

Some indoor plants that can help immensely by filtering these VOC's are:

*Aloe Vera - easy to grow and the gel inside can also be used to aid in the healing of cuts and burns. This nice, sunny, window-sill plant helps clear up paint and other chemical fumes.

*Spider Plant - easy to grow and hard to kill. Safe around children and pets. This is a great plant that helps with many of the VOC's including carbon monoxide, and printing chemicals.

*Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) - gorgeous vine that will grow quickly and doesn't need much light. Good garage plant to help with exhaust.

*Gerber Daisy - this beautiful flowering plant likes lots of light. It does well to clear the chemicals from dry-cleaning. It would certainly brighten up a laundry room nicely.

*Snake Plant - one of the best plants for the formaldehyde problem that toilet paper, personal products, and cleaning products carry. This plant would love to make an amazing statement in your steamy bathroom. It wouldn't even mind low light conditions.

Other plants that will help in filtering the VOC's are:

Chrysanthemums - like bright light,

Red-eyed dracena - grows tall, easy to grow

Weeping Fig(aka ficus) - livingroom plant to help clear carpet fumes

Azalea(flowering shrub) - likes cooler temperatures. A wonderfully pretty basement plant if there's lots of light

Also the English Ivy, Bamboo(reed) palm, and the Peace Lily.

Most people are happier when they have something to tend and nurture. It not only gives your life a sense of purpose and meaning, it helps you feel more empathetic and compassionate.

Someone who is disabled, housebound, or in a wheelchair, can still be able to garden. It can give you emotional enjoyment and physical therapy.

If an herb garden is the way for you, know that these fresh kitchen growths are much healthier for you. Foods grown without pesticides and chemicals are becoming a part of a healthier lifestyle.

Indoor gardening gives you a healthier environment in which to live. It also can be your quiet personal time well-spent with a feeling of satisfaction in the growth you see.

Diane Gove is searching and sharing many ways to improve your state of mind. She would like you to come find your happy spot at http://www.thehappyaverage.com. There are many simple ways to help yourself become a happier person.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_M_Gove
http://EzineArticles.com/?Health-Benefits-of-Indoor-Gardening&id=8780948

Plant Fall Flowers To Brighten Cool November

Plant Fall Flowers To Brighten Cool November
By Bill Camarillo

November in southern California usually ushers in cooler temperatures and possibly rain, which means gardeners can take a break from constant care and watering of plants and trees and instead focus on adding color and fall vegetables to their gardens.

Plant Hearty Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums love fall. They are annuals that need very little care. Plant them in bloom and expect the flowers to look healthy for over a month. Once the flowers begin to fade, cut plants back to only a few inches above the ground. They will be dormant in winter but will grow quickly in spring and produce another round of flowers.

Move Plants to Better Locations: Some plants do not do well despite our best efforts. The cause could be their location (not enough sun, too much sun), soil conditions or nearby plants sapping the nutrients they need. Fall is a good time for a change in scenery. Cooler weather means most plants can tolerate transplanting. Select a site that receives the right amount of sunlight. Prepare the soil with the proper amendments. Once transplanted, keep the ground consistently moist (but not over saturated) for the first month so roots can take hold.

Keep Lawns Green: Most lawns can remain green throughout winter. For an added boost, mow lawns so blades are about 1 inch tall. Then scatter grass seed over the lawn, especially in bare spots. Sprinkle a light covering of soil amendment and water daily or as needed until new blades appears.

Time to Plant Onions: It's time to plant onion seeds. The seed will need well-draining soil. If you have clay soil, add amendments to break up the chunks of clay. Plant seeds where they will get full sun. Leave plenty of space between the seeds so the bulbs will not crowd each other. Since onions have shallow roots, soil should be kept moist. Onion bulbs will be ready to harvest in spring-when the tops of the plants brown and easily bend. Dig up the bulbs and let them cure in a sunny location for several days and then in a cool dry place for two weeks.

Plant Annuals: Brighten up flowerbeds with cool season flowers including pansies, calendula, snapdragons, stock and sweet alyssum. In addition, continue planting perennials, groundcovers, herbs and roses.

Plant Wildflowers From Seed: Planting native wildflowers is easy. Select seed packets of the popular California poppies, and not so well known globe gilia grand linanthus and meadowfoam. Scatter the seeds in a flowerbed, gently tamp down and water.

Bill Camarillo is CEO of Agromin, an Oxnard, California-based manufacturer of premium soil products and the composter for cities throughout Southern California. Each month, Agromin receives more than 30,000 tons of organic material and then uses a safe, natural and sustainable process to transform the material into premium soil products. The results are more vigorous and healthier plants and gardens, and on the conservation side, the opportunity to close the recycling loop, allow more room in landfills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. http://www.agromin.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Camarillo
http://EzineArticles.com/?Plant-Fall-Flowers-To-Brighten-Cool-November&id=8790791

Decorate Your Garden Without Breaking Your Bank

Decorate Your Garden Without Breaking Your Bank
By Adel Alhajhussain

Have an Idea in Mind

It helps to have an idea of the theme or motif that you want to create before you begin to shop. Gardening magazines and websites are a great place to begin, but don't be afraid to step out on your own and be creative. Do you want your garden to reflect your artistic side? Maybe you are looking for a more romantic touch. Whatever your tastes, here are some novel ways to spruce up your garden without spending a fortune to do it.

Flea Markets and Thrift Stores

You can find a wealth of ideas for your garden by scoping out your local thrift stores and flea markets. Look for old things to make new again. A child's wagon is a playful and fun planter for flowers and perennials. A little bit of ingenuity can change the face of old fixtures like an old claw foot bath-tub into unique and artistic accent pieces for your garden.

Small boxes and containers can be reawakened with some arts and crafts supplies that you can hang in your trees and convert into bird feeders. Even old bottles and jars can be given new life and add a little magic to your garden.

Find Free Bricks and Stones

Create walk ways and borders for your flower and plant beds by looking through classifieds for curbside treasures. Always be careful, and go with a friend, but surplus bricks are often given away at deeply discounted prices or even for free. Ask the foreman at a construction site what they plan on doing with their left-over bricks. Selling them to you at a discount saves them from having to clan them up!

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Natural beauty can be found anywhere there is a beach or pathway through the woods. Driftwood that has been sanded and polished by the ocean can be shaped into tables and chairs, or be used to hang planters from. Polished glass and stones are great for use in mosaics, and also add flair and color to your flower beds.

Don't Forget the Side of the Road

Remember that old tractor tire that you have driven past every day on your way to work? Not only are they great as the classic tire swing, they can also be used to create different levels in your flower beds (when stacked) as an interesting and artistic planter. Give your tire a good soapy hosing let it dry in the sun. Have some fun with some paint and then let it form a ring around a flower bed.

Check Your Garage and Attic for Buried Treasure

Convert your 'garbage' into art and liven up your garden! Old furniture, containers and found objects can be converted into unique and whimsical accent pieces. Recreate dresser drawers into plant boxes and drizzle some of those maria-gras beads in the branches of your trees,

Your imagination is the only limit to what you can accomplish in your back yard. Decorating your garden on a budget is not only do-able, it can be lots of fun! New concepts and ideas can be found almost anywhere you look.

http://www.salequick.com/decoration-ideas-for-your-garden/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adel_Alhajhussain
http://EzineArticles.com/?Decorate-Your-Garden-Without-Breaking-Your-Bank&id=8786456

Say It Easily and Effectively With Flowers

Say It Easily and Effectively With Flowers
By Satvik Mittal

Life comes with plenty of things to celebrate. They include graduations, anniversaries, weddings and birthdays. Valentine's Day and other occasions also call for celebration and there is nothing that says how much you care better than flowers. The right flowers can easily pass your message of love to a loved one whether they are celebrating the happy events and occasions or going through challenging patches in life. Flowers can be sent to an ailing person to wish them quick recovery and can also be sent as simple messages of condolences to a person who has lost a loved one. They have a way of lifting the spirit and making life look brighter hence the reason why most people settle for them even during such trying periods when no words can be enough to convey the messages of sympathy.

Choosing the Right Flowers

The truth is that there are plenty of flower types out there and different flowers have their symbolic meaning. This means, therefore that there are flowers that are best suited for certain specific occasions and celebrations. For instance:

• Roses symbolize love and they can therefore be given in all sorts of occasions, even during times when a loved one is going through challenging times. They come in different colors and each color tends to have a meaning to it with red roses being the true symbol of love.
• Zinnias, geraniums and irises on the other hand have traditionally been used to symbolize friendship. They can be suitable for different occasions too for a loved one with whom friendship is most important.
• Poinsettias are most suitable for Christmas even though they can also be grouped with other flowers to make a creative bouquet for a loved one or even for your home.
• When it comes to weddings, orchids, roses, daisies, daffodils and carnations make the best choices. The best thing about the flowers is that they can be selected according to their colors to work with the wedding theme getting a colorful look in the end. You can settle for one kind of flower in one color or have several to match with your individual preferences.
• Carnations, lilies, roses, chrysanthemums and gladioli make the perfect sympathy flowers.

When choosing flowers to give to a loved one, consider the message that you wish to convey. You can also take into account the individual preferences of the recipient. When you know what he or she likes most, you do not have to worry about the occasion or event or the purpose as long as they end up lifting the spirit of the person in whichever situation he or she is in. A good online florist can help you in making the right decision.

To make an unforgettable impact, how about using the flower delivery service? This is something that you can easily do especially when are purchasing the flowers online and don't have time to spare to deliver them on time. This is especially an amazing idea for birthdays and occasions such as Valentine 's Day.

A reliable Singapore florist can get you all the flowers that you need and even help you with combinations to make the perfect bouquet for a loved one. You can easily buy flower you love most for you or a loved one thanks to online florists.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Satvik_Mittal
http://EzineArticles.com/?Say-It-Easily-and-Effectively-With-Flowers&id=8795687

Garden Design for Dry Shady Gardens Plus Tips for Dry Shady Planting

Garden Design for Dry Shady Gardens Plus Tips for Dry Shady Planting
By Andrew Staib

Garden Design for Dry and Shady Areas

Especially in urban gardens, where space is at a premium, you may well have to resign yourself to dealing with shady, dry areas. But that doesn't mean your garden design has to be boring, or that there's nothing you can do with these sorts of spaces. Far from it. You can still create something that's diverse and beautiful.

As gardens get smaller, these conditions are likely to get more common. Equally, bear in mind that north or east-facing gardens tend to be shady and cool for large parts of the year.

Think about whether the shade is constant or whether there is sunlight at some times. Or is the shade really only there in the winter months? Is the shade cause by a tree? Could (and should?) the tree be removed?

While walls cast a light shade and don't draw moisture from the soil, but tree boughs can sometimes create more challenging conditions.

Whatever your own situation, design your space so that it actively thrives in dry shade. Choose flowering shrubs, annuals, perennials and ferns which can adapt to these conditions and your garden will be full of interest as well as easy to care for.

Because shade can make everything look smaller, redress the balance by being bold in your designs for shady areas. Be generous with paved areas, make borders deep, have containers as big as physically possible. More than with other types of garden, shady, dry ones need to be given a lot of personality.

Containers

Allow room in your design for the biggest containers possible. Not only will these look great, but will need to be watered less frequently. Create an illusion of space with tubs with mirrored panels. Terracotta adds warmth and plants grow well in it. Pots are a good idea in dry conditions; plant them with well-watered soil that's nice and damp.

Good container choices include:

• Begonia
• Polyanthus
• Arum lily

Lighting

Keep everything quite low down, and have a lot of small light sources instead just a few bigger ones, to enhance atmosphere. Think about having thick candles in hurricane jars or stringing up fairy lights.

Climbers

Climbing plants invariably soften a building, but sun-lovers will look odd as they strive for the light so choose varieties that don't mind a bit of shade, such as camellias and clematis and hydrangea. Trellis pyramids will add height to your design.

Boundaries

Brick walls can be painted, while fences could be covered with trellises, which are always versatile, affordable and easy to install. Consider it a kind of urban wallpaper that has the power to transform sunless places. A trellis can also give a feeling that there is more space than there actually is.

Planting

Arrange plants so that the tallest are at the back of the garden, and bear in mind that you may have to settle for interesting foliage in shady areas, rather than colourful flower blooms.

Among the plants that go well under trees are ivy, Christmas box, holly and stinking iris. A number of shrubs and perennials can also succeed, as can some bulbs.
Despite the challenges, even the dullest area can be enriched with some carefully chose shade-tolerant plants, and there are more of these to choose from than you may have realised.

Lawns

Choose shade-tolerant grass mixes, such as fescue grasses, which cope better with drought and shade and poorer nutrient levels. (However, even shade-tolerant grasses need some light.) You may even want to think about taking away some trees to increase the amount of light. If that's not possible, prune back branches.

Mow lawns in shade less often than you would normally cut grass, and always get rid of the clippings. Water frequently and heavily, and feed shady lawns particularly in the autumn and early spring, with high potassium feeds.

The important thing is not to get too downcast if your garden has a lot of dry or shady areas. You can still do a lot with these spaces.

Here at http://www.gloriousgardenssussex.co.uk we design the most beautiful gardens possible for you that enhance your house and look spectacular out of any window or when you walk though it. We thoroughly research plants, soils and materials to make sure your design will last and delight you for years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Staib
http://EzineArticles.com/?Garden-Design-for-Dry-Shady-Gardens-Plus-Tips-for-Dry-Shady-Planting&id=8792459

Garden Design for Chalk Gardens - Finding Plants That Will Thrive on Chalk

Garden Design for Chalk Gardens - Finding Plants That Will Thrive on Chalk
By Andrew Staib

Garden Design for Chalk Soils

Alkaline soil is common across Britain, especially in areas like the South Downs, and is mainly derived from limestone or chalk, so the soil is known as chalky. It generally has a pH factor of 7.1 or above. And, in fact, it's something that millions of British gardeners have to contend with.

These soils tend to be shallow, free draining and stony, so gardening this type of land is not without its challenges. What's more, if you add organic matter to the soil it can decompose rapidly, so that it is hard to keep fertile.

However, there are many examples of wonderful gardens made on chalky soil, such as the University Botanic Gardens at Cambridge, or the Hidcote Manor National Trust property at Chipping Camden, Gloucestershire.

And it's not all bad news. Flooding is rare, given the porosity of this kind of soil, and it warms up quickly in springtime compared with kinds of ground. Equally, with a good quality fertiliser, and manure, you will be able to grow a wide range of plants. (Dig in lots of organic matter, and use mulch wherever possible.)

When creating your design, bear in mind that smaller plants will establish themselves more rapidly than species which are more mature. Plan to have plants which grow well in chalky soils. These include Mediterranean and prairie plants.

If you want camellias, rhododendrons and other plants, which tend to prefer an acidic soil, plan your design to have them in containers.

Here are some other ideas to include in garden designs for chalk soils:

Bulbs

The white Madonna lily loves chalk as do tulips and spring anemones.

Perennials

Peonies thrive in this type of soil, but other ideas include euphorbia characias and oriental poppies.

Many of these, once they have flowered, die quite quickly. You will need to be prepared to shear them and fit in other plants to fill in the gap. An ornamental clover or perennial pea will do the job.
Leguminous plants also love chalk, as does the borage family.

Shrubs

When it comes to shrubs, you have plenty to work with planning out your design. Think lilacs, elders, or buddleia, while the Moroccan Pineapple Broom flowers against a warm walk in chalk soil.

In terms of a colour scheme, grey and silver leaved plants appear to adore chalky soil. Equally, many aromatic shrubs love the ideal drainage and warmth of chalk, so you can create a fragrant space.

Climbers

Old Men's Beard, or wild clematis, will thrive in alkaline soil - just make sure there is enough humus at the roots.

Trees

Flowering cherries and crab apples do well in soil with a high chalk content - indeed they probably do best in such conditions. Field maple is wonderful in autumn, when its leaves turn gold, while the Judas tree, or Cercis, flowers magnificently.

Vegetables

Especially if you add a lot of compost and manure, vegetables are excellent for chalky conditions, so you should get superb crops, year after year. (See our article about designing a vegetable garden.)

The key thing is that you work with the soil. Don't try and fight it. Garden plants are very adaptable, and the soil will be more fertile the longer you work it, but you have to understand how chalky soil works, and how to look after it.

Here at http://www.gloriousgardenssussex.co.uk we design the most beautiful gardens possible for you that enhance your house and look spectacular out of any window or when you walk though it. We thoroughly research plants, soils and materials to make sure your design will last and delight you for years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Staib
http://EzineArticles.com/?Garden-Design-for-Chalk-Gardens---Finding-Plants-That-Will-Thrive-on-Chalk&id=8792471

Grow Your Own Vegetables From Seed: It's Fascinating

Grow Your Own Vegetables From Seed: It's Fascinating
By Margaret E

If you've never grown your own vegetables you won't have experienced the joy and pride of pulling fresh carrots from the ground with soil still clinging to them, or cutting a crisp and tasty lettuce for your salad. And if you have grown a vegetable garden, have you ever grown your plants from garden seeds?

Your forebears would undoubtedly have answered the question with a resounding 'yes' but nowadays retailers have a bewildering array of seedlings to tempt the aspiring gardener. In this article I'm trying to show you that sowing seed is a worthwhile and even exciting way to grow your garden.

The Fascination
As a child, did you have your own garden plot or work in the garden at school? In the science lab did you ever watch eagerly for beans or corn, pinned to absorbent paper, to send out roots and stems? If so, can you remember the eagerness with which you waited for the first sign of growth?

Growing seeds in your garden can have that same element of anticipation. I've been growing plants from seed for maybe forty years but I've never quite lost the child-like wonder at the miracle of growth that is so profoundly displayed when seeds germinate and seedlings appear: the uninspiring, dry-looking contents of the packet turn into an abundance of living plants.

Something Extra
You probably bought your first seeds from a local retailer. Did you have difficulty deciding which variety to buy? The range would, in fact, have been very limited, consisting of a mixture of a few old favourites and some new releases.

What you may not have known is that there's a wealth of seed varieties available if only you know where to look. The internet is a great place to start. Many sites sell heirloom seeds, and that's where you'll be offered a mouth-watering array of vegetables: varieties your ancestors grew, seeds that were grown fifty, a hundred, maybe two hundred years ago.

The seeds come in an unbelievable range of shapes, sizes, colours (orange, red, yellow, purple and white carrots, for example), and best of all, the true flavour of the vegetable. Nowadays some vegetables, especially tomatoes, have been bred to last longer on the shop shelf and flavour has been lost along the way.

I couldn't hope to find and list all the producers of these marvellous seeds. Besides it's fun to go to your favourite search engine and type in 'vegetable seeds' or, if I've convinced you, 'heirloom vegetable seeds'. If a site offers to send you a catalogue, spoil yourself and order one.

Growing vegetables from seed is exciting and the crops are abundant. Somehow, the plants are more personal than those grown from purchased seedlings. Make it even more interesting by trying at least one new variety each year for comparison with your favorites.

Are you eager to improve your knowledge of gardening? Would you like more information on easy ways to grow vegetables and save yourself work in the garden? At http://abundantgarden.net you'll find helpful ideas, a chance to comment or ask questions and, if you wish, you can sign up for emails (we won't flood your mailbox) to keep you up to date with what's new at the site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_E
http://EzineArticles.com/?Grow-Your-Own-Vegetables-From-Seed:-Its-Fascinating&id=8799032

Tomato Care From Seed To Planting: An Easy Step-By-Step Guide

Tomato Care From Seed To Planting: An Easy Step-By-Step Guide
By Margaret E

Growing tomatoes from seed is fascinating as you follow their growth from germination to the stage where the young plants are ready to grow outdoors. Unless you live in a frost free area you will need to start the plants indoors. You can plant the seeds indoors four to six weeks before the last frost is expected.

1. Choice of potting mix
A loose mix that will allow the roots to develop well is best. Commercial seed-raising mix is readily available but I prefer to use coir and potting mix in about a 2:1 ratio. Another recommended mix is 1/3 peat, 1/3 compost and 1/3 coarse vermiculite.The soil needs to stay moist but not soggy and be loose enough to let air through.

2. Plant the seeds
Fill your container (e.g. yoghurt pot with drainage holes added), with moist potting mix, press it down lightly and spread your seeds so that they are 1 cm (0.5 in) apart. Press them gently so that they make contact with the soil and cover with 5mm (0.2 in) of mix. Label the seeds.

3. Early care
Place the container in a warm place (an airing cupboard is good). A piece of bubble wrap cut to size and placed over the top of the container helps to retain moisture or you can place the container in a plastic bag. After a few days check for germination and ensure that the moisture is adequate. Don't over water. Tomato seed germination usually takes 5 - 10 days.

4. Care after germination
Once several seeds have germinated, remove the container to a warm place in bright light but not direct sun. Continue to check water requirements. Once the seedlings have true leaves, start feeding them. Any good liquid fertilizer can be used once a week. Liquid blood and bone, seaweed or fish manure are organic choices. Dilute it to half the dose recommended label.

5. Repotting tomato seedlings
When the seedlings are about 5 cm (2 in) tall it is time to move them to larger containers. Pots that are 7 cm - 10 cm (3 - 4 in) across the top are a good choice. Plant each seedling a little deeper than it was previously. If it is tall and straggly it can be planted deeply, up to the first leaves. Firm the soil gently around the seedling and water in with a small amount of water.

6. Hardening
When the weather is warm enough you can put the pots outside in a sheltered place during the day, taking them indoors again by late afternoon. Once the risk of frost is over, leave the seedlings outside day and night. Make sure they get enough water.

The plants will be ready for planting outdoors a week or two after the frosts stop.

Gardening is not meant to be a chore. Would you like more information on easy ways to grow vegetables and save yourself work in the garden? At http://abundantgarden.net you'll find helpful ideas, a chance to comment or ask questions and, if you wish, you can sign up for emails (we won't flood your mailbox) to keep you up to date with what's new at the site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_E
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tomato-Care-From-Seed-To-Planting:-An-Easy-Step-By-Step-Guide&id=8799407

Arborists and Why You Need to Hire Them

Arborists and Why You Need to Hire Them
By Davids James

The overall care and maintenance of your garden can be quite essential to increase the appeal and attractiveness of the house, but as your plants grow bigger their care can become difficult and at times dangerous also. We tend to underestimate the risk of injury and damage that is posed by the sudden collapse of a tree branch even from a relatively short height.

This risk persists while trimming these branches as well. This is why arborists are hired to take care of your garden. They are highly trained and know a lot more about tree care than the average Joe. It is also true that house owners cannot do everything with perfection.

However, if you hire a level 5 arborist you can rest assured that your garden is in good hands. There is a huge risk involved in pruning trees, even to those who are skilled in their jobs and who use all the safety equipment and tools. So it might be wise to stay far away from the dead or decaying parts of a tree.

That is where professional tree service providers can actually help you. They are meant to complete their work professionally and while observing the highest standards of safety and cleanliness. Moreover, they can tell you a number of tips and techniques to keep your garden healthy.

In addition, your garden might be home to a number of older trees which have branches that hang over your home directly. These branches need to be monitored constantly or even trimmed lest they become a threat to your life and property. Only tree surgeons can carry out pruning or trimming without affecting the nearby vegetation. In addition, they will also take on the task of spreading pesticides and insecticides to prevent the outbreak of disease.

In addition, they can also make your garden look so appealing that you can always be proud of it. However, the work of the arborist does not end here. They give you timely progress reports for the health of your garden and what they are doing. Thus, by reading them you can know the current condition of your garden.

However, in order for all this to happen you must first hire the best company in this field. You can always use the web to find service providers that are close to you. There are many companies that offer their services in this field. Shortlist some and do your homework. That will allow you to choose the best one. Furthermore, when you are finding any tree service providers makes sure that you take all the details about them to avoid confusion later. Given your garden and maintenance work only to professionals.

Looking to improve the health of your trees? You should consider approaching level 5 arborists who know what is best for your trees.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Davids_James
http://EzineArticles.com/?Arborists-and-Why-You-Need-to-Hire-Them&id=8807188

Gardening Tips For Complete Beginners

Gardening Tips For Complete Beginners
By Kent Swigg

Vegetable gardening can be a wonderful hobby that anyone can start regardless of age. Usually when people start this hobby they quickly get hooked on to it. Even though it is simple, there are a lot of things which you have to learn if you want to take on gardening seriously. You should take steps to educate yourself and increase your knowledge of becoming a good gardener. Thankfully there are many ways available now through which you can acquire the necessary knowledge.

In this article, we shall discuss a few key points when you are just starting out with vegetable gardening. I shall also mention a few other sources where you can get additional information.

1. Decide what vegetables want to grow. You need warm weather for some vegetables while others need colder climates. So the place where you stay and the season can play an important role in selecting the vegetables you want to grow. Cabbage, lettuce and peas need cooler climates. These vegetable plants should get sufficient amount of time to mature before the weather becomes warm otherwise they may die or seed prematurely. On the other hand, tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet corn grow well in warm climates. They need average temperatures between 60-95 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. When you have selected a vegetable, the next step is to research the soil quality in your home where you want to plant the vegetable. You have to make sure that the soil is really suitable for the vegetable you are trying to grow.

3. After confirming the soil condition, the next step would be to decide on a suitable spot in your garden. The spot you choose for planting the vegetables should be such that it should not cause disturbance or inconvenience to you or other family members.

Secondly, the spot should receive a good amount of sunshine and adequate wind. The garden should ideally receive 6-8 hours of sunlight every day. Sunlight provides energy to plants to convert carbon dioxide into sugar which they use for food. If the plants do not receive sufficient sunlight, they may not give fruits even if the plants look green and healthy. Carrots, tomatoes, radishes and beets need at least 6-8 hours of direct light every day. Plants such as lettuce, which are grown just for their leaves, can grow nicely in the shade and don't need direct light from the sun. In fact they may need some protection if the sun is too bright and shiny.

4. When you start a garden and try to maintain it, you may encounter various difficulties from time to time. You have to acquire knowledge of how to maintain your garden and what steps are needed to prevent the plants from damage. If you know someone who has experience in gardening, you can take the help of that person. If not, you have to do the research yourself. Google can be your best friend when you are looking for a solution to a specific problem.

You can also get hold of a few good books on gardening. You can browse through hundreds of such books on Amazon. You can even read blogs on this topic where gardening experts share their tips and techniques. YouTube is another wonderful source for people who are visual learners who prefer watching instead of reading.

Head over to our website if you want information on gardening in pots. On our site you can find tons of useful information teaching you how to grow vegetables in containers and pots.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Swigg
http://EzineArticles.com/?Gardening-Tips-For-Complete-Beginners&id=8815576

Thinking Green

Thinking Green
By Shaun Swilling

Since the start of the ozone layer scare thinking green went from being an off-beat subculture to something that has now become 'cool' and in some countries is even financially rewarded. There are many examples where green thinking can help your body as well as your bank account.

A good example is where some states in the USA and some countries will reward the addition of any electricity that comes from a household. After installing expensive solar heating on a suburban roof the government will pay for any excess produced after the house has used what is required.

Thinking green can make a difference when we think back on the laws that started destroying the ozone layer. It is a perfect example of how simply changing those laws has started the repair of the ozone layer that can now be seen by observers.

It means that the decisions that our leaders make today will affect the next generation and water is now recognized as the most precious commodity we have on our planet despite the scramble for oil and gold. The experts all agree that the next world war will probably be over water.

Unfortunately thinking green has been taken out of Joe Public's hands when we think of the fracking laws that have been passed. There are currently over 160 countries that have banned fracking for natural gas because of the groundwater that it poisons.

Fracking destroys the precious underground water as they use water to extract any gas from the rock by drilling a hole and filling it with expansion material that somehow releases the gas. It is the mixture this expansion material that they mix into this water which drains down to the underground water and affects all the other water.

Handing the laws on how to treat the environment to Joe Public does not help either as my country spends millions of dollars a year trying to stop the poaching of Rhino's. My country has lost nearly 600 Rhino this year because of the relentless onslaught by the greedy poaches that will do anything for money.

At this rate the chances of our grandchildren seeing a live Rhino is very small and it is all because of money. At a price of nearly half a million dollars for one kilogram of Rhino horn there is simply no way to stop it. But some creative thinkers have offered a solution.

Most of the Rhino horns, after the rhino is slaughtered by machine gun fire from a helicopter the poacher saws off the horn before the blood is cold. The horn is then smuggled out and sold in China, Indonesia and Vietnam. There is a group of game ranches that spend a lot of money protecting their rhino's from poachers that offer an alternative.

It started with cutting off the horn of the rhino to avoid it being killed which resulted in a cache of rhino horns that keeps getting bigger. So they have suggested that rhino horn could be 'farmed' and sold to countries legally. The farming would be these cuttings that the game farmers remove from rhino they believe are threatened by poachers.

A presentation was given that said the value of this current stash of rhino horns that the game farmers have is worth millions of dollars on the black market. The argument is that these funds should be used to off-set the growing debt in keeping the rhinos safe from poachers.

But thinking green could also mean planting a food garden or have herbs growing from your kitchen roof. The consciousness of green thinking is something that can only come from education. From Rhino horns to fracking and planting a food garden the more we know about our planet the better chance we have at sustainability.

I live is South Africa and have been writing SEO articles online for 5 years. If you would like an article written on any subject please send me an email to swilling1@gmail.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shaun_Swilling
http://EzineArticles.com/?Thinking-Green&id=8814544

Beautiful and Colorful Flowers for Every Occasion

Beautiful and Colorful Flowers for Every Occasion
By Robert Unatnas

Flowers are incredible gift of nature. Bright and sweet-smelling flowers can make any event bright and cheerful. Gifting flowers to someone you admire is the expression of love and care.

Any occasion without flowers is like tea without sugar. Flowers are used for numerous events. Whether it is a propitious occasion or a farewell, flowers are the best gift. One of the amazing things is that it can add glamour to the place and make it look pleasing to the eye. Many people prefer to keep colorful flowers at their homes and workplace as it makes the place look brighter and livelier.

Flowers can be used for numerous occasions such as-

Birthday parties

Weddings

Funerals

Anniversaries

Baby Showers

Housewarming parties

Festive seasons

Thanksgiving events

Farewell party

Flowers- The Indispensable article for every occasion

Beautiful bouquets are apt for birthday parties and anniversaries. Make a wonderful combination of flowers by including various colors like red, white, pink, yellow and purple. These attractive flowers can bring smile on anyone's face.

When someone you know is promoted, you can gift them a bunch of beautiful and fresh flowers as a sign of his/her success.

If you miss someone who is away from you, then you can express your feelings by sending a bunch of splendid flowers. The fragrance of these blossoms will surely make him/her remember you.

Flowers can be a perfect gift for your ailing friend also. The vibrant and bright blossoms can relieve someone in poor health.

14th February, a big and special day for lovers. Since time immemorial, red roses are a symbol of eternal love and romance. Make your loved one feel special by gifting a bunch of colorful roses on Valentine's Day.

When someone is angry with you a bouquet of white roses can cheer up their mood.

On any occasion incorporating excellent flower work can transport your room to an enchanting zone.

Famous Top 10 Wedding Flowers

Roses (Yellow, Red, Pink)

Peonies

Freesias

Ivy

Jasmine

Hydrangeas

Calla lilies

Dahlias

Sweet peas

Lily of the valley

How to choose the best florist in your vicinity?

With numerous florists in the town, it becomes quite confusing to choose the best florist that can decorate your place into a spectacular one. Seek out for references from the people you know as word of mouth is the outstanding source of suggestion. Internet can also be the excellent place to locate a renowned florist.

Robert Unatnas is a wedding planner and he is very enthusiastic in decorating rooms with colorful and beautiful flowers. He wrote this article to provide you with innovative ideas about event flowers in Chelsea.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Unatnas
http://EzineArticles.com/?Beautiful-and-Colorful-Flowers-for-Every-Occasion&id=8816023

Winter Gardening in Southern California

Winter Gardening in Southern California
By Bill Camarillo

While December brings below freezing temperatures to many parts of the country, it is an opportunity for southern California gardeners to finish up on fall planting and undertake garden maintenance projects.

Plant Artichokes: Buying artichokes at the market can be expensive so planting these perennials can be a smart decision. Planted now, they can begin producing in summer. Don't be surprised, however, if the first crop is disappointing or non-existent. It may take two growing cycles for the plants to mature to the point of growing sizable artichokes.

Get Creative With Your Garden: Summer isn't the only time to plant vegetables. Winter gardening can be very rewarding. Think outside the box and plant vegetables that don't get the most attention. These include such cool weather vegetables as asparagus, beets, Brussel sprouts, cabbage and celery.

Ignore Roses: Trim off flowers and then let your roses "harden" for winter. No need to fertilize.

Buy (Or Rent) A Living Christmas Tree: Many families make it a tradition to purchase living Christmas trees and then plant them in their yard once the holidays are over. When purchasing a living tree to later plant, research the type of tree that would best fit your yard. Pine trees are messy, have large root systems and can grow to 40 feet or higher. They also need a significant amount of water. Pine trees that do well in the region are Afghan pine, Aleppo pine, Coast redwood and Deodar cedar. Do not keep a live tree indoors more than two weeks or it will begin to drop its needles. For another environmentally healthy alternative to purchasing a cut Christmas tree, in some parts of southern California, live Christmas trees are available for rent from The Living Christmas Company.

Move Container Plants: Place container plants next to south or west-facing walls so they will absorb reflected daytime heat and stay shielded from wind. Move cacti, succulents and potted trees under cover for protection from cold and rain.

Attend To Fruit Trees: Spray horticulture oils or lime-sulfur onto deciduous fruit trees. This will control diseases such as leaf curl caused by insects. Leaf curl can reduce the amount of fruit that is produced so spraying now will help summer production. You can also prune deciduous fruit trees this month.

Keep Lawns Healthy In Winter: Fill in bare spots with seeds, followed by soil amendment and plenty of water. Rake leaves from lawns. Mow as needed.

Bill Camarillo is CEO of Agromin, an Oxnard, California-based manufacturer of premium soil products and the composter for cities throughout Southern California. Each month, Agromin receives more than 30,000 tons of organic material and then uses a safe, natural and sustainable process to transform the material into premium soil products. The results are more vigorous and healthier plants and gardens, and on the conservation side, the opportunity to close the recycling loop, allow more room in landfills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. http://www.agromin.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Camarillo
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winter-Gardening-in-Southern-California&id=8831053

Growing Flowers and Fruit in Your Greenhouse

Growing Flowers and Fruit in Your Greenhouse
By Melissa K. Reinhart

Greenhouses offer gardening enthusiasts the ability to grow their favorite plants year-round. Though, it is often a common misconception that flowers and fruit cannot be grown in the same environment, through proper planning a greenhouse environment can be created where both flowers and fruit can thrive.

Growing both flowers and fruit may be as simple as designating a set of benches for flowers and another set for fruit trees, or as complex as creating independent zones in your greenhouse. The designation of greenhouse zones should take place during the greenhouse planning phase to prevent complications in the future. Zones are areas within a greenhouse that have their own specific temperature and climate; they are created by using interior walls to form sections in the greenhouse. Various temperature and humidity levels can be maintained by an automatic control system.

The use of grow lights can assist in the propagation of both flower and fruiting plants. For example, strawberries thrive when grown under a grow light; just be sure to utilize the "everbearing" strand, as "June bearing" strawberries will not grow indoors. High pressure sodium (HPS) grow lights are ideal for both fruits and flowering plants, and provide a high efficiency yellow glow with a life expectancy of approximately five years or 24,000 hours.

Every plant has its own growing requirements; some key factors to take into consideration when growing both flowers and fruit in your greenhouse include: lighting, humidity, and temperature. Lighting requirements for plants can range from full sunlight to heavily shaded environments. Some fruit, such as strawberries, need direct sunlight to grow while flowers, such as begonias, do well in shaded areas.

The level of humidity required by plants can differ greatly throughout the year. At first glance, growing calla lilies and tomatoes in the same area may seem like a good idea because they both require a similar humidity range of 80 to 90 percent, but a second look shows that tomatoes require a lower humidity level (65 to 75 percent) at night in order to thrive. Temperature range should also be taken into consideration. Most fruits will grow best in the warmer temperature ranges, while flowers can flourish in cooler temperatures.

Flowers and fruit can be grown together successfully with proper planning; including lighting, humidity, and temperature ranges. Contact a greenhouse expert for more information about how you can grow both flowers and fruits in your greenhouse.

If you are interested in more information on Solar Innovations, Inc.'s product line, please contact the marketing department at skylight@solarinnovations.com or by calling 800-618-0669.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_K._Reinhart
http://EzineArticles.com/?Growing-Flowers-and-Fruit-in-Your-Greenhouse&id=8835302

Silk Orchids: A Bit About The "Real" Models Part 2: Dendrobium, Cymbidium, and Cattleya Orchids

Silk Orchids: A Bit About The "Real" Models Part 2: Dendrobium, Cymbidium, and Cattleya Orchids
By Rikki Lee

Really? I'm supposed to remember these names, where they grow, how they grow, and which silk orchids I might want to put in my silk flower arrangements? This memorizing is not my cup of tea, you're thinking.

That's fine, the main things to walk away with from this two part series are 1) silk orchids are modeled after real live orchids that live incredible lives in incredible places, and 2) when you place your lovely silk orchid arrangements in just the right place, remember the "reals" that have miraculously thrived in just the right place for those perfect conditions to produce unbelievably fabulous flowers that now are beautifully recreated in your own silk orchids. Enjoy the joy.

With over 1200 species, Dendrobium is the largest and most diverse orchid genus. With huge variety of colors (a silk orchid lover's dream) Den's grow in diverse habitats from the high altitudes in the Himalayan mountains to lowland tropical forests and deserts of Australia. From less than half an inch long to hovering around 10 feet, Dendrobiums are native to China, Japan, India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Guinea, Vietnam, and many islands of the Pacific. Papua, New Guinea has more than 500 species of Dendrobium orchids. They are primarily epiphytic (grow on trees) with some lithophytic (grow on rocks) varieties (see part 1 for additional explanations of these terms). Some Dendrobium orchids are grown for their medicinal uses. Silk flower arrangements include many different Dendrobium silk orchid varieties, and seem to be a favorite in the popular Thai restaurants today.

Cymbidiums, more easily remembered as Boat Orchids (shwew, I think I can remember this one) have been depicted in drawings and poetry for over two thousand years. They grow native in tropical and subtropical Asia and northern Australia. Boat orchids can be grown outdoors in the warmer climate states of the United States. Although many bloom only once a year, the massive explosion of flowers is well worth the wait. These orchids also come in a huge variety of showy colors and last a long time, 2 to 3 months, in cut flower arrangements. Cymbidium's popularity stems from the terrific show put on with up to 30 blooms on one stem, and from their numerous culinary uses (only certain varieties) such as in curries and stews. Often found in lovely pots as silk flower arrangements, Cymbidium silk orchids are among some of the most popular.

The Cattleya orchid is the one that often comes to mind when we think of the traditional special corsage; a lovely large long lasting flower often white, lavender, and other various shades of purple. Now domestically grown in many colors and sizes, Cattleyas are often used as a benchmark for how to grow other orchid varieties. They are native to tropical Central and South America. Cattleyas are rarely mentioned without their interesting domestic beginnings. Apparently, a moss and lichen collector in Brazil grabbed some random sturdy leaves as packing material to ship his collection back to England. William Cattley received this mass of sickly plant and nursed it back to health. When it bloomed a few years later, it stirred up quite a rage world 'round and was named Cattleya after the man with amazing patience. Many lovely Cattleyas can be found in numerous silk flower arrangements.

With around 700 genera, 25,000 species, and over 100,000 hybrids, there are plenty of striking models for our silk orchids today. Stated in this 2 part series are only 6 different varieties of orchids that are commonly found in silk flower arrangements. Hopefully you are inspired to learn even more about the remarkable "reals" your silk orchids are modeled after and expand your collection to include many of these fabulous orchid varieties. And again, enjoy the joy.

Find these and other silk orchids and silk flower arrangements at http://silkflowerarrangementsonline.com/. We have great prices and silk flower arrangements you have to walk up and touch to believe they're not real. No fuss, no muss, go silk today! http://silkflowerarrangementsonline.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rikki_Lee
http://EzineArticles.com/?Silk-Orchids:-A-Bit-About-The-Real-Models-Part-2:-Dendrobium,-Cymbidium,-and-Cattleya-Orchids&id=8834267

The Best Plants for a Small Garden

The Best Plants for a Small Garden
By Todd Wessel

When it comes to any new landscape planting, especially a small garden, it's crucial to fully understand the conditions your plants will encounter on a daily basis.

All plants have specific needs for sun, shade, water etc. but small gardens can exacerbate these needs because of the restricted design of the layout.

With limited space for growth, drainage, airflow etc., small gardens can create micro climates that cause;

- increased wind and dry out plants faster
- decreased airflow greatly increasing humidity and disease
- drainage problems keeping soil wet and drowning plants

Before you go out and purchase any plants, take some time to observe your garden at different times of the day and read up on the plants you like.

It's important to know;

• when your plants will get sun or shade during the day... it makes a Big difference; morning sun is a cooler sun and a great spot for partial shade to shade loving plants, on the other hand,afternoon sun is a hot sun and plants here must be able to withstand intense heat

• what is your soil type- clay soil -stays wet longer, requires much less watering and is the main culprit in the many sickly, yellow leaf plantings seen in many landscapes), loam or sand (drains quicker and requires more monitoring and water)

• do you have wet areas or any drainage issues... where do your roof gutters drain; shady areas especially will remain wet longer and require less watering

• if you have large trees shading beds, blocking rain or have plants that are installed in a trees root zone; plants here will need more water and fertilizer, 2-3 times as much

• if you have wind issues... fences can increase wind and quickly dry out plants

Once you understand the different situations your garden may present over time, you can begin choosing the plants that will flourish with you over time. Strive for a low maintenance
gardening experience by installing plants that mature slow and fill in over time. Do not over plant! Space out for growth.

Adding plants like Butterfly Bush, Spirea or Knock Out Rose not only greatly increase seasonal color but also helps keep your landscape more manageable because these plants are cut back or rejuvenated every spring, reducing clutter.

By following the low maintenance planting above, 95% of your yearly gardening is completed during your spring cleanup and the rest of the summer is freed up for you to enjoy the outdoors.

With that said, I recommend shrubs and perennials not to exceed 4-5 feet tall/ 3-4 feet wide and trees no taller than 15 feet. I also avoid any quick growing shrubs, (i.e. Manhattan Euonymus, Privet) that will involve any type of maintenance pruning during the season.

The plantings below are mostly insect and disease free, require very little moisture once established and need very little maintenance during the year. All will bring years of enjoyment toyou and your garden when placed in the environment mentioned.

Plants for full sun - afternoon sun or hot sun;

• Red Twig Dogwood
• Knockout Rose
• Barberry Crimson Pygmy
• Boxwood Winter Gem
• Butterfly Bush
• Dwarf Burford Holly
• Hoogendorn Holly
• Nandina Varieties
• Repanden Yew
• Lavender
• Nepeta or Catmint
• Liriope varieties
• Calamagrastis Ornamental Grasses
• Pennesetum Ornamental Grasses
• Itea
• Hydrangea Panniculata or Oakleaf
• Sedum varieties
• Clethra- very fragrant
• Coreopsis Zagreb
• Cone Flower-Echinacea varieties
• Perennial Geranium varieties

Plants for morning sun and afternoon shade or cooler sun

• Acuba varieties
• Astilbe varieties
• Caryopteris- Blue Mist Shrub
• Dwarf Burford Holly
• Hydrangea (Macro Phylla)
• Lilac- Meyer Palbin- fragrant
• Repanden Yew
• Variegated Liriope
• Hosta Varieties- some fragrant
• Gumpo Azalea
• Heuchera Varieties
• Nandina Varieties
• Heleborus Lenten Rose

This is a great list to start from with many evergreen and flowering varieties.

Peace and good growing

Todd

twscapes@gmail.com

Todd Wessel
Certified Professional Horticulturist
Certified Landscape Technician
Certified Maryland Pesticide Applicator
e-mail-twscapes@gmail.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Wessel
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Best-Plants-for-a-Small-Garden&id=8847539

Artificial Plants for When You Have a Location That Is Not Conductive to Live Plants

Artificial Plants for When You Have a Location That Is Not Conductive to Live Plants
By Kenneth Nel

There are many situations where you will require having flowers and plants. However, it is not always possible to have foliage that is real. You need to discover why artificial plants are the best choice when you have a location that is not conducive to live plants.

Although the amazing scents of fresh flowers is always welcoming it is not always possible to have them in certain locations. This is due to the maintenance that comes along with them. This is why in many offices and restaurants they are now starting to use artificial plants. This is partly due to the fact that fresh plants require a lot of care. On top of that they do not last forever and will need to be replaced regularly. This will end up costing you a lot of money. Many people choose fresh flowers over fake because they believe that they are more sophisticated and look better. However, this is no longer the case. Artificial plants are now rivalling their counterparts. They are being made with only the best materials and the flowers are more often than not getting made from silk. In some cases it is not even possible to tell that the plant is in fact fake unless you physically go up to it and touch it.

The reality is that you cannot always have fresh flowers in some environments. This is especially true when it comes to restaurants. Fresh flowers will attract bugs that will end up annoying your guests. The last thing you want is for your guests to be sitting down enjoying a meal and having flies and bees floating around their heads. The other issues that occurs with fresh plants is pollen. The pollen can end up getting all over the place and in some cases it can even end up staining services. This is why it is better to have artificial plants in a restaurant setting. You can enjoy the beauty of the plants without having to worry about the maintenance that goes along with them. All that you will need to do to, to maintain their original look is to give them a dust every now and then.

How artificial plants can add life to even the smallest spaces

Apart from being used in offices and restaurants, they are now being used to give life to peoples small apartments. It is not always possible to buy a starter apartment that includes a garden or even balcony. You can liven up your space by simply creating an artificial garden paradise. Choose between both exotic and local foliage as you won't need to worry about them not being available all year round. Instead of staring at grey concrete blocks around, you can now transport your home to a tropical paradise.

To get your hands on the best artificial plants you need to come to us at Creations Elegance. We have a number of options available that are suitable for both personal and professional use. Visit our website http://www.creationselegance.co.za today to find out more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_Nel
http://EzineArticles.com/?Artificial-Plants-for-When-You-Have-a-Location-That-Is-Not-Conductive-to-Live-Plants&id=8853284

Invasive Plants of Sedona

Invasive Plants of Sedona
By John Stuart Leslie

There are two species of plants in the Sedona area that top the list for invasive species and they are the Tree of Heaven and Vinca which is a ground cover. The difference is that nobody deliberately plants Tree of Heaven, however Vinca is widely available at nurseries and is planted often.

Plants that grow out of control or spring up in unwanted spaces are a nuisance to the average gardener. Na�ve homeowners who plant these species in the first place unknowingly are creating a potential maintenance headache. Some of these invasive species are so difficult to eradicate completely, that only containment is possible.

The Tree of Heaven or Alianthus is one of the worst culprits to fit the category of invasive plants of Sedona. It is also invasive across the entire United States and is extremely difficult to kill, let alone keep under control. It spreads from seeds that are so prolific and blow through an area, easily germinating in almost any conditions. Once it takes hold, it starts what is called a "colony."

There are chemicals that are used to both spray the foliage as well as to inject or spray into a wedge cut into the trunk. Personally, I have tried using RoundUp on some small seedlings, but all that does it cause the leaves to wither and not really kill it down to the root. Best way to control young Tree of Heaven is to remove the entire plant. Knowing what these look like is important so if one pops up in your yard, you should remove it right away.

Vinca major, also called Periwinkle is an evergreen ground cover that likes shady areas and can be seen all over Oak Creek canyon under the shade of the Sycamores and Pines that line the canyon. In a garden, it can quickly take over by sending out new runners and rooting along the way. The good thing is the roots are not that difficult to remove and a patch out of control can be removed or contained provided you pay attention and spend the time to do it.

Another invasive plant of Sedona that I see much of is the Trumpet Creeper. Having an orange tubular flower in spring and summer, it is a popular deciduous vine that clings to walls. The problem is it seems to like to spread underground as well. It spreads like it has rhizomes for a root system. Fortunately, Trumpet Creeper does respond to RoundUp. I would not plant this plant in the first place though. It is perhaps better used as a container plant against a fence or wall.

Bamboo Horror Stories

Bamboo is a type of grass spreading by rhizomes that stem out from the mother root rhizome mass. Some are considered "clumping" while others are "running" types. For a thick screen, many people opt to plant the running kind because it will spread and fill in gaps better than the clumping varieties. The problem with the running bamboo is when a shoot comes up in a spot you don't want it to. But it can be controlled by simply cutting the rhizome. Enough space must be given to allow the running bamboo to spread. The problem is not understanding how bamboo rhizomes grow and not paying attention.

Typically, the only bamboo you will see for sale in the Sedona area is Golden Bamboo or Phyllostachus aurea which does well in our Zone 7 climate. Bamboo is usually planted to create a screen. Golden bamboo typically reaches about 12 feet high. Planted along a property line or fence can be risky if it is not contained with a rhizome barrier. You wouldn't want it popping up in your neighbor's yard and answer to their complaints. Therefore, it is best to be prudent and do provide some kind of containment or barrier to the boundaries that you would like the bamboo to spread and cover. Thick plastic material that comes is rolls 24" wide is available specifically for the purpose of containing bamboo or other root systems. The key is to not ignore the growth of your bamboo, rather keep an eye on it so that you will notice any new shoots popping up where you don't want them and then can easily cut the rhizome. The reason bamboo is feared is that most people plant it and forget about it until it is too late to be easily controlled.

Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica) is an alternative that does not spread and would have to be planted fairly close together to provide a screening effect. If you like bamboo because of its Asian theme, consider planting it in containers in groups, otherwise do use a rhizome barrier and keep an eye on it.

Research Before you Buy

Many homeowners may the common mistake of buying the pretty plant at the nursery because of its flower and general form whether it's a shrub, ground cover, vine or tree. Think about this: why would a vendor selling a plant at a retail nursery put a description on the plant label that it is invasive? Of course it would put up a red flag and discourage the sale. Descriptions about the characteristics of plant growth are best researched online or in a good gardening book such as Sunset Western Gardening. There you will find objective useful information whether a plant is considered invasive or not.

John Stuart Leslie holds a Master's degree in Landscape Architecture and has been a landscape designer and contractor since 1982. His website, http://www.jsllandscape.com is filled with pictures and ideas about landscape and garden design for all levels of project needs.

For homeowners tips, insights and education, follow his blog at http://sedonalandscapedesign.com where you wont get generic gardening information, but wisdom from someone with over 20 years experience in the industry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Stuart_Leslie
http://EzineArticles.com/?Invasive-Plants-of-Sedona&id=8850914

Winterizing Roses

Winterizing Roses
By Adolf Moser

Winter protection for roses starts in late summer early fall.

About six weeks ahead of the first frost date in your region you have to stop encouraging your roses to grow.

Otherwise, new tender, soft shoots are caught by the frost and will easily be killed.

To slow down growth in late summer, you can do that in two ways

• Stop feeding your roses six weeks before the first frost date
• Stop deadheading the roses and let hips develop

These actions slow growth and encourage dormancy. The plants will start to prepare for hibernation.

Winter Care For Roses

When temperatures reach 10�F or less, most of the roses need some kind of winter protection. The harsher your winters, the more you have to think about it. Choosing and planting roses in a proper way will protect your flowers upfront.

• Selecting winter hardy roses will reduce frost damage even in very cold regions
• Planting roses with bud unions 2 inches beneath the soil level will protect the roots and the bud union
• Securing roses against cold and wet winds will protect them against rocking loose
• Mounding soil, mulch or other insulating materials over the base of the plants will protect them from freezing

In areas with dependable snow cover less winter protection can be used than in areas with less snowfall. Snow is a superb insulator.

Winter Protection For Roses

Mounding soil may be too much work for some gardeners. That is why we should talk about some other methods of winterizing roses.

Winter rose collar: One of the best winter protection for roses is to use a winter rose collar. It eliminates die back by drying out of the canes, is easy to install and can be used season after season.

Landscaping blankets, frost covers: Frost covers are installed in seconds and stow easily. They come with several different sizes and are perfect to protect tender shrubs and hybrid teas.

Other methods to protect your plants would be to apply sawdust, pinewood-spray or Styrofoam cones on the base of the plants. Personally, I prefer the easy rose gardening way and use a winter rose collar or frost covers.

Dormant oil spray: I recommend spraying the rose canes with an organic dormant oil spray. This will kill pests and diseases. Otherwise they will overwinter with your roses and bother your plants in spring again.

Hope I could help a little bit with my easy rose gardening tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adolf_Moser
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winterizing-Roses&id=8837498

Choosing Your Growing Structure

Choosing Your Growing Structure
By Richard Bogdanowicz

We are now in late fall, approaching early winter and if you're like me and many other farmers/growers in this part of the world, you're ordering your seeds to start them for the ever-so-near growing season. To ensure the success of a growing season, many farmers, I included, have invested in outdoor plant-growing structures such as greenhouses, hoop houses, polytunnels, and geodesic domes. If you are someone looking to maybe switch your current growing structure for a different type, or a beginner looking to choose their first, or even someone just curious about the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of greenhouses, hoop houses, polytunnels, or geodesic domes, this article will hopefully enlighten you and help you come to a decision.

Greenhouses

Arguably the most famous and well-known type of growing structure-the greenhouse, is wonderful for out-of-season growing. Yes, I'm talking about fresh tomatoes in February! A greenhouse is typically a rectangular or square shaped building (some variations in shape are possible of course) made of either polyethylene or glass walls. A major disadvantage of a greenhouse, which is shared with the geodesic domes, is the cost. Choice in structure such as either polyethylene or glass walls, high tech or lo tech ventilation and heating, and other fine details determine the price which can be up to $20,000 (at $7.56 per square foot) or below.

Of course, there are ways to lower the price though. For one, building it yourself is going to save A LOT of money opposed to hiring a company to build it. Then, consider the exterior covering: Polyethylene or Glass. Polyethylene is the cheaper option and it's double layers makes it less expensive to heat than a glasshouse, BUT on the downside, the use of polyethylene leads to reduced light conditions in the winter and increased humidity in the summer. (As an added note, humidity equals fungus which equals dead plants.) Finally, when considering cost, it is in your best interest to make sure you know that you can more than earn back what you have invested through the profit made off of the crops grown in the greenhouse.

I think the obvious disadvantage here is the $$$ (for building and heating). Keeping that in mind, there are MANY advantages to using a greenhouse to more than counter the negative aspects. The biggest advantage here is that with a greenhouse, you can grow plants virtually year-round! Other advantages here include that they are relatively simple to assemble, they protect plants from the elements (wind, rain, hail) and soil-borne diseases, plants in a greenhouse generally have a higher yield, and there is great versatility/freedom in the growing techniques used within a greenhouse. Greenhouses can be placed on an exposed ground for in-ground soil culture or placed on a concrete slab or even over gravel! Then to add to this greenhouse conundrum, watering methods and planting methods change with each setting variation.

Polytunnels

If you are a grower looking for a structure to use for growing A LOT of produce, this is probably your best option (unless you live in a really windy area, but I will get to that later). A polytunnel is what it sounds like-a tunnel of polyethylene. Very similar to a hoop house, a polytunnel is a metal framed semi-circular tunnel that captures a lot of air space which has its advantages in that it stays warmer longer than a greenhouse. Variations on its structure can be made through using Bubble-Wrap insulation in the winter to ensure a frost-free winter, a source of heating, and the type of ventilation you decide to install.

Disadvantages are as plentiful as the advantages but it all depends on what you're looking for and your location. First of all, when I think of a long tunnel, the first thing that pops in my mind is "SPACE." Simply put, if you do not have the space, this will not work for you (a hoop house may make a better alternative if shorter). Also, it does not look too aesthetically appealing... it is a metal framed tube of plastic... BUT if looks are a concern of yours, consider a glass greenhouse or a geodesic dome. Location matters because wind will take a toll on your polytunnel. If you and a friend have ever stretched out a tarp facing the wind and had it ripped right from your hands, well that is the same effect strong wind has on a polytunnel. Long story short, it will rip itself from the ground and fly to who-knows-where. Lastly, a major disadvantage is that polyethylene is vulnerable and not easy to fix, in fact, you can use all the duct tape you want to fix that hole in your polytunnel, but that hole will eventually open back up and tear further.

To add some sunshine to the dark clouds over the disadvantages of polytunnels, there are plenty of advantages. The obvious ones here are that it extends the growing season and adds to the variation in crops to be planted within by adding more space. A huge plus is the cost, which is much cheaper and affordable than a greenhouse or geodesic dome. Crop rotation, if planting in the ground, is commonly known as essential to the prevention of plant disease and with a polytunnel, you can simply move it to a new area being that it is not as permanent as the other types of growing structures discussed. My family and I have had plenty of experience with hoop houses (a close relative of the polytunnel) and we could tell you that it has been a tremendous help in that it ensures a longer growing season and excellent protection for the plants despite its simplicity and lo-tech structure.

Geodesic Dome Greenhouses

A personal favorite of mine-- geodesic dome greenhouses are so innovative and functional that some people actually use the geodesic dome structure for houses! A geodesic dome is basically a half sphere structured by a bunch of triangular supports. They truly are unique in their appearance which is more than just aesthetically appealing, but efficient as well. They are a lot like greenhouses in the sense of materials, for example, you can use either a plastic or more glass-like exterior (polyethylene or polycarbonate glazed panels).

There are many advantages to using a geodesic dome as a growing structure, most of which correlate with that of the greenhouses. For example, they are highly efficient, less at risk of temperature changes, and attract maximum light. To supersede the advantages of a typical greenhouse though, a geodesic dome has a shape that allows wind to flow around it, snow easily slides off, less surface area allows for less escaping of heat, more space for tall plants, and overall there is a maximum space enclosed with the minimum materials used.

Sadly, these structures are not as frequently used as typical greenhouses, hoop houses or polytunnels are. Why? For one, they can be VERY expensive. Also, they are not that easy to assemble. This is not a growing structure for beginners. Just like with the regular greenhouses, you will want to make sure you have a plan and near sure-fire way to earn back what you put in by using the dome-house. Fortunately, a lot of different planting techniques can be used within a geodesic dome greenhouse. Hydroponics, the popular growing method for dome-houses seem to do real well in them. After some research, I've found that concentric circles of growing hydroponic beds are popular and a great use of the space. Planting horizontally or vertically is not really an efficient way to grow in a geodesic dome greenhouse, so you must learn to adapt with the shape. As an added note, Geodesic Dome Greenhouses are mostly intended to be placed on gravel or a concrete slab.

There is a growing structure out there for everyone! You just have to know what you're looking for, how much you're willing to spend on it, and most importantly, make sure you invest in one you are completely happy with opposed to spending thousands of dollars on something you intend on being short term.

Greenhouses vs. Polytunnels vs. Geodesic Dome Greenhouses (The Breakdown):

Greenhouses (typical)

-YEAR ROUND growing season

-EASY to assemble

-PROTECTS plants from the elements and soil borne diseases

-FLEXIBLE to your planting techniques

-EXPENSIVE to build and heat

-Glass vs. Polyethylene

Polytunnels (close relative to the hoop house)

-EXTENDED growing season

-VARIETY of crops

-CHEAPER option

-EASIER to assemble

-MOVEABLE for crop rotation

-MORE space

-ASTHETICALLY unappealing

-CHALLENGING to heat and ventilate

-VULNERABLE to the elements and people

Geodesic Domes (greenhouse)

-ASTHETICALLY appealing

-HIGHLY efficient

-LESS SUSCEPTIBLE to temperature fluctuations

-EVEN heat distribution

-MORE space for tall plants

-SAFE from the elements

-EXPENSIVE to build

-Polycarbonate Glazed Panels vs. Greenhouse Plastic

-DIFFICULT to assemble

"Homesteading at Rustic Farms" Learn how we built our hoop house and grow produce all year-round!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Bogdanowicz
http://EzineArticles.com/?Choosing-Your-Growing-Structure&id=8855642