There are many species of wild grape in my area and the grapes they produce are small, few, and not very tasty. Their leaves, however, are large, abundant, and delicious. I like to gather them in late spring and early summer over the course of a few weeks and then ferment them in brine to […]
Read MoreGarlic mustard is an invasive species that can be found throughout the US. It enjoys moist, shady areas but can grow just about anywhere, displacing native species. It is one of the first plants to appear after winter and it may release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. Finding and Identifying Garlic Mustard […]
Read MoreIf you’ve started some plants from seed or purchased some from your garden center, you’re probably eager to get them in the ground. If you want to get them off to the best start possible, however, it pays to take a few days to get them ready. What is Hardening Off Hardening off is the […]
Read MoreThis is just a little chart to give you an idea of how much you’ll need to plant of each different type in your garden. Plant recommendations are Per Person you are feeding. If you are only growing for in-season eating, select the number from the “eat fresh” column and multiply it by the number […]
Read MoreThis year was to be the year of the pepper. I am afraid I am not very good at peppers. Our local weather conditions aren’t the best for flavorful peppers. We just don’t get a lot of heat out of them. My research suggests that I water them too much and that our weather is […]
Read MoreI tried a variety of tomatoes in our Great Lakes region garden this year. Here are the best and the worst.
Read MoreGardening can be intimidating and, for those of us who do not have our own patch of dirt to tend, it can seem nearly impossible. But growing and using your own herbs is quite satisfying and can only improve our magical relationship with them. And if you don’t have your own patch of dirt, many […]
Read MoreTomatoes are among the most popular garden plants. Store bought tomatoes cannot compare to the flavor and texture of fresh, homegrown tomatoes, still warm from the sun and there are few vegetables (fruits!) more versatile in the kitchen. While tomatoes are a popular plant for beginners, they can present challenges if conditions aren’t just right. […]
Read MoreA few years ago, I planted three celery plants I bought at the garden center in my herb garden and basically treated them like my herbs. They grew lots of nice leaves, but no stalks. They were good in soup and the rabbits liked them, but I wasn’t really excited. Last year, I decided to make […]
Read MoreIf you’re as bummed about the end of the gardening season as I am, you may be thinking of ways to brighten up your indoor surroundings and nothing says springtime like some green. Live plants instantly lift the energy in your home and some can also bring specific magical energy into your space. And if […]
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