How to create Paradise on your porch, using Permaculture
“…a few strategies that you can employ no matter where you are, (as long as you have a good nearby outdoor space). I call this approach “Porch Permaculture””…
-
-
Important things people wish they’d known as beginning gardeners
We only recommend products and services we wholeheartedly endorse. This post may contain special links through which we earn a small commission if you make a purchase (though your price is the same). Cultivating beginner mind Over the past 25 years or so, I have been a beginner at many things, as both a teacher…
-
Creating a meadow out of the mundane
What I learned turning my typical mundane Virginia front lawn into a meadow Recently I decided that mowing a lawn was a waste of my time. I had admittedly decided that on several other (yearly) occasions before. I was finally attempting to change the parameters of my typical lawn care in a neighborhood situation. I was…
-
The best seed catalogs for Virginia gardeners
In years past, late January was for sitting by the woodstove, snowed in (as we usually have our first big snow fall in Virginia the third week of January) seed catalogs spread out before me. I felt warmer from just dreaming of eating fresh food straight from verdant lush gardens in July. Following are the…
-
Be the Best Host: plant for Pollinators
Many years ago, I edited a newsletter for the Master Gardeners in Virginia Beach called ‘Gleanings’. I often asked other gardeners for submissions. Because assembling a newsletter was new to me, as well as growing things, I needed their support. Occasionally, generous people obliged me, which is how I learned of an excellent idea for…
-
Growing shiitakes in a Virginia garden
Mushrooms on pizza do not excite me. And happening upon a mushroom when I’d much rather find a fried sweet potato or cauliflower in my tempura is always unwelcome. But one Portobello burger can go a long way. Next thing you know, you are looking at seed catalogs and ordering what is known in shiitake farmer’s language…
-
Top ten books for gardeners in your life
I promised to share my ten books for the gardeners in my life. Woohoo! Books are always helpful for gardeners, and any garden-related gift is timely, because gardens (for gardeners and everyone else) are gifts that keep. on. giving!!! We only recommend products and services we wholeheartedly endorse. This post may contain special links through…
-
Free (or almost-free) natural garden fertilizers
Whether you live 45 minutes from the nearest store or within driving distance to three of our garden centers, chances are you appreciate free things. In this particular article, I will share with you at least 7 things you likely have in and around your home that you can use as free (or almost free)…
-
The wonderful world of worm bins
What is a vermicomposting worm bin? Vermicomposting is also known as gardening or composting with worm bins. I’ve assembled bins before, and I will again. I have to say it’s much more fun to build with others, instead of by yourself. A long time ago, I made one with my young kids. They were 4,…
-
Helping pets and wildlife coexist in the garden
Hosting pets, livestock and wildlife animals in your garden Hosting animals (pets, livestock or wildlife) brings joy to a garden. For the plants, animals and people, you can create a garden that welcomes all. The best part? The animals you invite will help you do it. Read on to find out how! Chickens Almost everyone…