Once you are acquainted with the pleasing qualities and subtle flavors found only in garden-fresh herbs, having your supply of at least a part of those used becomes essential. Start with the hardy perennial herbs, the beneficial ones. An excellent general rule to follow is to buy perennial plants instead of seeds. It takes too … Read more
Herbs are plants of infinite interest, inspiration, and purpose. For many centuries, herbs and man have been old friends in many lands. They have fascinated, interested, served, and delighted humanity in many ways. They are still for use and delight.” They still sustain the kitchen, refresh the palate, delight the senses, and beautify our gardens. … Read more
The blustery winds and fluctuating temperatures of March can do damage to northern gardens. There is a tendency, when the weather is fine, to uncover plants protected all winter. This could lead to disaster. Tender growth suddenly exposed to frosty winds will shrivel. If there is heavy covering, remove only a part of it, allowing … Read more
The Southern gardener is really kept busy this month! Seeds of annuals and vegetables should be sown and perennials divided and transplanted. In some areas, March is the best time for starting a lawn. And, also, the battle against insects and diseases begins in earnest this month. Protect Roses from Black Spot In most sections … Read more
The saying, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb,” must have been meant for gardeners who do most of their planting this month. Since California weather is unpredictable, it is sometimes possible to do a lot of planting during the first two weeks of March. Usually, however, it is better … Read more
March – even more than January to the Middle West should – be considered the Janus-faced creature that looks both ways. I have seen this month as mild as May. That year many vegetable gardeners planted beans at the last of that month and, strangely enough, they won. There was no freezing weather and their … Read more
The cucumber is one of our important vegetable crops for both the commercial grower and the home gardener. History tells us it has been in cultivation for thousands of years. Early American colonists grew cucumbers, and so did the American Indians before them. Ideal Soil For Cucumbers Cucumbers are a warm-season crop. Like pumpkins, melons, … Read more
It is later than you think! During thaws along the Ohio River the sap is already stirring. Starting Seeds Indoors The inexperienced gardener should not attempt to start seeds indoors unless a really sunny window is available. Poor transplants make slower progress in the garden than do seedlings sown directly where they are to grow. … Read more
Though Chilly and damp weather prevails in most of the West in many places the weather brings suspense and surprise to the garden. For example, in the favored spots such as west of the Cascades winter and spring weather are in a delicate balance. In California and the Southwest there is already a mildness in … Read more
Fertilizing Trees And Shrubs In all parts of the South trees and shrubs should be fed now. A few gardeners remember to feed the shrubs. but most neglect the trees. Fertilizer that is applied now, when most species are developing leaf buds, is taken up immediately. When applied in the fall or early winter, much … Read more