When your plant list is longer than the available gardening space, it’s time to expand your planting options. Create new gardening space by adding raised bed gardens, elevated planters and containers wherever space allows. Convert the end of the drive or edge of the patio into raised bed gardens. Just use a raised bed liner […]
Melinda Myers
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released “Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition” and “Small Space Gardening.” She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and is commissioned by different brands for her expertise to write these articles.
Posted inGardeners Corner
Designing a Wildlife-Friendly Landscape
We love watching the bunnies hopping across the lawn or ground squirrels scurrying away with a cheek full of seeds. That is, until they dine on our favorite shrub or take just one bite out of each red, ripe tomato in the garden. Finding a way to coexist is critical for wildlife struggling to survive […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Tips for Seed Starting Success
You created your wish list, ordered some or all of the seeds you will need, and they are beginning to arrive. Make the most of your investment with a bit of planning. Starting seeds at the proper time, indoors or directly in the garden, ensures a good start to the growing season. Check the back of […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Low Light, Low Maintenance Houseplants
Don’t let a lack of brightly lit windows stop you from gardening indoors. Include some low-maintenance, low-light houseplants and maintenance strategies to boost your success. Low-maintenance gardening starts with proper plant selection. Match the plant to the growing conditions and your gardening style. ZZ plant is a favorite low-light, low-maintenance plant. You will see it […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Trend-Setting Daffodils for Gardens and Bouquets
Daffodils are having their day. Floral designers are opening our eyes to a world of gorgeous daffodils that extends far beyond the iconic yellow trumpets. These unexpected varieties include doubles, bi-colors and split cups, in colors such as creamy white, peach, pink, gold and orange. Grow some of these spring beauties in your garden and […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Plant Now for a Colorful Spring Display
It’s time to think spring. Fall is the time to plant tulips, daffodils, crocus and other spring flowering bulbs. Use these early bloomers to welcome spring to your landscape. You’ll appreciate the color and cheery blooms after another long winter passes. Extend your enjoyment by including early-blooming bulbs like snowdrops, squills and winter aconites. Add […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Preserve Your Garden Produce for Delicious Winter Meals
All your hard work is paying off with a bountiful harvest. Fresh produce is filling your garden, countertops and refrigerator while the garden keeps producing more. Preserve some of your harvest to enjoy throughout the winter with some tried-and-true or updated variation of food preservation techniques. Hanging bundles of herbs to dry is a longtime […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Boost Your Landscape’s Curb Appeal in One Weekend
Create a front garden that is sure to boost your mood and welcome visitors all year round. All you need is one weekend and a bit of paint, flowers, décor and edging material to boost your landscape’s curb appeal. The Front Door Add a splash of color by painting your front door. Look for colors that […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Get Maximum Yield from Minimal Garden Space
Growing on a deck or balcony is a great way to bring the garden to your backdoor. You can attract butterflies and hummingbirds into easy view and grow edibles within close reach when cooking. For some, it may be the only available space to garden. Make the most of every square foot by growing vertically. […]