Gardening can be an extremely relaxing hobby, and one of the best things about it is that it is easy on the wallet. Family and friends can spend an enjoyable afternoon together, working in the garden. If you have kids, you will see that they will be fascinated by how seeds grow into flowers and vegetables. In short, gardening is a good way to get in touch with nature and spend more time outside. This article will help you create a functional garden, then let others in on the fun of planting and cultivating the crops you grow.
Do not mow your lawn too short. If you leave your grass a bit longer, the roots can grow deeper. This results in a lawn that is stronger and less likely to dry out. When grass is cut too low the roots will not grow as deep, and your lawn may suffer from brown patches.
Some annuals do much better during the cold winter months. You can keep these types of plants looking great by pruning them back when they become too leggy. After a couple of weeks you can expect the annuals to bloom again and when they do, they look stunning when contrasted to the color of the winter foliage. Annuals that do best in cool weather include snapdragons, petunias and dianthus.
Don’t forget to use a good fertilizer in your garden. Manure is a great garden additive, but it is important that you choose a manure that has been composted commercially so that there is less of a risk of pathogens. Choosing a specific type of fertilizer is not particularly critical; as long as you’re using fertilizer, you’re improving your soil.
You don’t have to plant just for spring and summer. Consider what are often beautiful colors in the fall. Fall, though, can still be an interesting time for trees. The foliage of autumn makes for perhaps the most colorful season of the year. Maple trees come in a variety of fall colors ranging from yellow to deep crimson, as do Beech trees and Dogwood. Some vibrant shrubs include hydrangea, barberry, and cotoneaster.
Mint Leaves
If you find yourself in love with mint leaves, but not with how they dominate a garden, read on. You can control the growth of the mint leaves by growing them in a large container rather than in your garden. You can even plant the container in the ground. That way, the roots won’t be able to escape the container, and the plant won’t overrun your garden.
You can keep your dog away from your garden by spraying perfume or aftershave in the grass. This can help mask any scents which attract animals so pets will now avoid the garden.
Plant some perennials in your garden that repel slugs. Slugs and snails can decimate a plant in one night. These pests prefer plants with thin smooth leaves. Plant some helleborus or euphorbias along with your other perennials. Certain perennials are unappetizing to slugs and snails, especially those with tough, hairy leaves or an unappetizing taste. Good choices in this category are plants such as achillea, campanula, and euphorbia. Heuchera and helleborus also work well.
Make sure that your sod is laid properly. Before laying sod, you have to make sure the soil is accurately prepared. Remove weeds and break your soil until all the clumps are gone. Lightly, but firmly compress the soil, making certain it is flat. Thoroughly moisten the soil. Then lay the sod in staggered rows so the joints are offset. Firm sod until there is an even, flat surface; fill in gaps with soil. Sod must be watered every day for about two weeks, and then it will have rooted and be completely ready to be walked on.
Stink bugs can damage your garden, especially if you garden in the fall. They like beans, peppers, tomatoes and many fruits. If you do not keep them under control, the damage can be excessive, so keep an eye out for them.
If you work with clay soil, you have probably found using a shovel very frustrating and exhausting. Get better results in clay by rubbing car wax or floor wax onto the shovel, then buff off and dig. This will keep the soil from sticking, and prevent rusting of the tool.
Gardening is a great activity that you can do on your own, or share with others. Regardless, the advice in this article can be helpful. Horticulture can become a treasured family activity. You can even invite your friends! Regardless of whether you garden alone or in the company of others, these tips are sure to be a valued part of your horticulture technique.