July 17, 2021 - Issue #522

It is a golden maxim to cultivate the garden for the nose, and the eyes will take care of themselves. ~Robert Louis Stevenson

ARTICLES TO READ

Staying Hydrated While Working in the Gardens

Strenuous activity in extreme heat and humidity can definitely lead to serious health problems. "Remember to drink plenty of water," Mom used to say, each early morning, before my siblings and I left for high school band camp, but really, how much is enough water to stay out of the ER? 🤷

10 Dollar Greenhouse

This is my latest idea for a super cheap greenhouse but I cannot promise what it will cost in your country or area. It is made of a few common household items and store-bought supplies.

Bubbles!

My idea for recycling a left over part of a broken sola light!

Popular Houseplants

Indoor houseplant popularity is once again, so we have listed the most popular houseplants in homes and businesses across the country. Smile as you see old friends listed (houseplants are friends, too!), and browse the list looking for new acquaintances to add to your collection. There is a houseplant here for you.

Add Beneficial Fungi When Planting

Mycorrhizae are fungi that colonize plant roots, and it's estimated that 90 percent of the plant species in the world have them, including vegetables, flowers, bulbs, trees, and shrubs. Mycorrhizae offer several advantages: they help plants absorb and hold major and minor nutrients, increase tolerance to stress and drought, and inhibit disease organisms in the soil.

Apple Tree Care

Water young trees regularly, especially those on semi-dwarfing or dwarfing rootstocks, to ensure that the root system becomes well established. Renew mulch periodically, but pull it away from the tree in the fall so mice don't nest over the winter and eat the bark.

The Lowdown on Lawns: Frequently Asked Questions

10 frequently asked questions about lawns. Learn about cool-season and warm-season grasses; the best time of year to seed a new lawn; fertilizer for lawns and more!

Are You Overwatering?

Overwatering can be as damaging to plants as under watering causing stress and less than robust plants. Limiting the stress of your plants gives them a much better chance at shrugging off insects and diseases. Make sure the care you are giving your plants isn't causing undue stress.

Edible Landscaping - How to: Espalier an Apple Tree

Many gardeners would love to grow apples, pears, peaches, and other tree fruits in their yard, but don't have the room or climate to accommodate them. While there are many dwarf tree fruit varieties on the market, sometimes even these trees are too large for a small yard. Plus, if you live in a cold winter or cool summer climate, some fruits just won't grow and mature well for you. Learn how to accommodate in this article.