Category: by Season

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Why Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil?

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil

Pest control is the secret battleground of the green-thumbed community. A battleground where effectiveness meets environmental responsibility. Enter Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil, a product that, in my personal experience, epitomizes this balance brilliantly. In a world where the echo of ‘organic’ and ‘eco-friendly’ sometimes drowns out actual impact, this oil stands as a safe and effective pioneer in safeguarding our gardens and homes without compromising on health or environmental ethos.

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil

The first time I used Bonide’s Neem Oil, I was skeptical. My garden was besieged by aphids, and the promise of a natural solution seemed too good to be true. Yet, as I followed the instructions and sprayed the affected flora, the results were astonishing. Within days, the otherwise bustling colony of aphids had vanished, leaving my roses to bloom unharmed. My skepticism was not just quenched; it was replaced with admiration for a product that delivered on its promise, naturally.

What sets neem oil apart is its source—direct from the seeds of the Neem tree, an emblem of ecological harmony. This isn’t just any pesticide; it’s a biodegradable substance documented to have minimal impact on non-target organisms. The safety it assures translates into peace of mind for the user. It doesn’t form a toxic cloud that lingers in the air, unlike its chemical counterparts, and when I use it, I’m not just protecting my plants, but my family, too.

Beyond The Garden: A Promise to Behold

Imagine a world where the traces of a pesticide used today don’t haunt our water systems tomorrow. That’s what neem oil offers—a futuristic approach in the present. It’s more than just a dream for sustainability enthusiasts; it’s a momentous stride towards it. I find solace in knowing that each application of Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil upholds the sanctity of our ecosystem. The bees continue to buzz, the earth stays fertile, and my garden thrives organically.

Traditional pesticides have their place, but when held against Bonide’s Captain Jack’s Neem Oil, they falter in the scales of safety. Synthetic pesticides, while potent, can cast a long shadow of potential harm. In contrast, neem oil is the embodiment of a long-term solution; it strikes the perfect chord between the now and the future of gardening practices. It invites gardeners to take a stand—quite literally— against the tide of harmful practices and opt for a more sustainable choice.

Unleash Neem Oil

In a market saturated with options, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. However, Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil stands out as a beacon of safety, efficacy, and sustainability. My call to action is simple—give it a try. In using this product, you don’t just make a purchase; you become a part of the paradigm shift away from toxic residues and towards a greener, healthier environment. Give your trust to a product that has earnt mine a thousand times over. Your garden, and the world, will surely thank you for it.

Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil isn’t merely a pest control option; it’s a philosophy and a statement. It’s a pathway to an ecologically brighter future, available for application today. For those mindful of their garden’s health and the planet’s, it’s a no-brainer.

Remember, in every drop of Captain Jack’s Neem Oil lies a story—an anecdote of greenness, and a testament to our pledge to nurture nature. Try it. And watch how one small choice can lead to a garden, and a world, brimming with life. After all, isn’t that what gardening is all about?

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Fall Decorating Ideas for Your Outdoor Space

Seasonal fall holiday decorating. Front door autumn decor.

Fall is a time for cozy fires, pumpkin spice everything, and of course, beautiful decorations. If you’re looking to add some autumn flair to your outdoor space, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll share some ideas for decorating your porch, patio, or yard in preparation for the fall season. So read on and get inspired to create a warm and inviting outdoor space for all to enjoy!

Decorating with Garden Mums, Hay Bales and Corn Stalks

Garden mums are beautiful flowers come in a variety of colors, and can be used to create stunning arrangements indoors or out. So if you’re looking for some easy and affordable ways to add some autumn flair to your décor, look no further than garden mums!

Hay bales can be used to create a warm and inviting outdoor space for all to enjoy. You can use them as seating, decoration, or even as part of your landscaping! So read on to learn more about how you can use hay bales to decorate your yard this fall. Check the hay bales for ants and other critters before loading them in the car.

Corn stalks are a classic fall decoration, and can be used in a variety of ways. You can use them as part of your landscaping, or as an accent in your décor. There are many different ways to incorporate corn stalks into your fall décor, so get creative and have fun!

Enjoy a Patio Firepit or Fireplace

Seasonal fall holiday decorating. Front door autumn decor.
Seasonal fall holiday decorating. Front door autumn decor.

Patio fire pits are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while staying warm. They can be used for cooking, warmth, or just to enjoy the flames. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for using a patio fire pit, and we’ll also provide some ideas for how to decorate your outdoor space with one. So read on and learn more about how you can enjoy a cozy fire this fall!

If you have a fireplace, you can also use it to decorate your outdoor space. You can hang stockings, garland, or even lights from your mantel. Or if you don’t have a mantel, you can use the ledge of your fireplace to display fall décor. Get creative and have fun!

We hope you enjoyed these ideas for decorating your outdoor space for fall. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help!

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Planting, Growing and Caring for Alliums: The Ultimate Guide

Allium, Serendipity

Looking to add some vibrant color and texture to your garden? Alliums are the perfect plants for you! With their globe-shaped flowers and interesting foliage, they can really make a statement. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about planting, growing and caring for alliums. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, read on for tips and advice that will help you get the most out of these beautiful plants!

Types of Alliums

There are many different types of alliums. Some have flowers that are shaped like a ball and some have leaves that are interesting.

Some of the most common alliums are:

Allium schoenoprasum – This is the most common type of allium. It has a round, globe-shaped flower and interesting foliage.

Allium cepa – This allium is also known as the onion plant. It has a round, globe-shaped flower and interesting foliage.

Allium sativum – This allium is also known as garlic. It has a round, globe-shaped flower and interesting foliage.

Planting Alliums

When planting alliums, it is important to choose a location that has well-drained soil. Alliums do not like to sit in wet or soggy soil. They also prefer full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.

To plant alliums, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the bulb. Plant the bulb with the pointy end facing up. Cover with soil and water well.

Caring for Alliums

Once your alliums are planted, they will need regular watering. Water them when the soil is dry to the touch. Alliums are not drought tolerant, so make sure to keep an eye on the soil and water as needed.

Fertilize your alliums once a month with a balanced fertilizer. This will help them to grow and bloom.

Alliums are not susceptible to many pests or diseases, but they can be affected by rust. Rust is a fungus that can cause the leaves of the allium to turn yellow and eventually fall off. If you notice rust on your alliums, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.

Once your alliums have finished blooming, cut off the flower heads. This will encourage the plant to put its energy into next year’s bloom.

Alliums are beautiful plants that add color and texture to any garden. With their globe-shaped flowers and interesting foliage, they are sure to make a statement. By following the tips in this guide, you will be able to successfully plant, grow and care for alliums. So get out there and enjoy these beautiful plants!

We hope you enjoyed this guide on planting, growing and caring for alliums. For more gardening tips and advice, be sure to check out our blog. Thanks for reading!

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Outdoor Planter Boxes for Highlighting The Landscape

Outdoor planter boxes can be used for highlighting a landscape, garden, patio, balcony and the inside of your home. Outdoor planter boxes are generally used in a container garden to grow flowers, vegetables, or herbs. Most of these containers are constructed of weather resistant materials that will withstand the outdoor elements.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I6I0Q6Kp3k

Wood outdoor garden boxes that hold up to outdoor conditions are mostly made of redwood, cedar, or teak. You can find them in different shapes and sizes and can be used almost anywhere particularly a rustic outdoor setting. Many raised beds are constructed of these in the natural state or they can be painted to match any area of your garden. Raised beds are convenient for gardeners with knee or back problems and they are excellent for drainage.

PVC is a very durable material used in the construction of planter boxes. They sometimes give the appearance of beautiful wood or clay and you cannot tell the difference until pick one up and realize it is PVC. They are inexpensive lightweight containers that will last through many seasons of harsh weather and they do not need very much care. Some of these containers are so beautiful and self-watering they can be used on a front porch or door step to enhance the landscape in front of your house. Clay planter boxes are good for your plants health but the soil will dry out much quicker than other planters. They can be very heavy and are fragile so are best if used in a location where you do not have to move them around. They are also available in various sizes, shapes, and styles; you may even find some to match some of your outdoor yard decorations.

Some outdoor planter boxes are constructed of metal and are quite common. Some have decorative feet to lift them off the ground for drainage. Some may come with an inner lining or you can use a plastic liner for protection. You can find many window-boxes that are constructed of metal and are self-watering. Hanging planters are also classified as planter boxes for planting flowers that drape or hang over the side. Hanging planters can be hung from house eaves or patio covers and are available as self-watering.

Almost anything can be used as a planter box for growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers. You just need to find one large enough to handle the root system of what you intend to plant such as plastic milk containers, bushel baskets, large pressed fiber pots or even an old wheel barrow. If you want to plant tomatoes the container should be very deep but to plant radishes you only need about a 6-inch deep container. The larger the container and the more soil used will give the roots more room to spread and less watering on the gardeners’ part.

Be sure the containers you use have ample holes for drainage; they can be on the bottom or on the sides. The excess water needs to drain out so the roots do not get waterlogged. Most large containers have the holes on the bottom so elevating them on blocks or bricks will give the water a place to go. The larger the container the more drainage holes it will need. A well-aerated soil will not need any stones in the bottom because you want as much room as possible for the roots of the plant.

You need to check your containers a couple times a day, especially during the hotter days of summer, for moisture if you do not have self-watering planters or are not using a drip watering system. Your large containers can use a layer of mulch to help retain some of the moisture. You need to use outside water that has not been through a water softener; the salts used in a softener can be toxic to your plants. Collected rainwater is the best and cheapest water that can be used for your outdoor planter boxes.

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Garden Shrubs for Different Seasons of the Year

Shrubs are a useful asset to any garden. They add height and architectural interest. Evergreen shrubs added to herbaceous borders can give substance to a border and hold interest during winter months when most perennials die down. For the most part they are hardy and easy to maintain, requiring little pruning, and long lived. Here is a guide to a few of my favorite shrubs which will add interest to a garden at different times of the year.

Shrubs for a winter garden

Hamamelis or Witch Hazel has to be a favorite to add winter interest to any garden. It is a winter flowering shrub with spidery flowers and a spicy scent. Flowers come in shades of yellow, orange and reds. Witch Hazel will thrive in any garden but an open sunny position is best. It is quite a large shrub and can grow up to 4m in height. They require little pruning, especially if you have the room to let them grow to their full potential. Just remove any dead or diseased wood. They also have few problems with disease, but look out for honey fungus and vine weevil larvae amongst those grown in containers. Particularly good varieties include Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Barmstedt Gold’ with bright yellow flowers and Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’ with its rich red spidery flowers.

Daphne is one of the best shrubs you can buy for winter scent. It flowers in January/February and has scented pink or white flowers. This shrub is very hardy and can grow up to 2m in height. They grow very well in borders and also in semi-woodland areas. Place them near to paths where their fragrance can be easily enjoyed. But beware, once planted they do not like to be moved. Daphne prefers a well-drained lime-free soil in a sunny spot, although it will tolerate semi-shade. They have few problems, but watch out for aphids and leaf spot. Two lovely varieties include Daphne bholua which has high scent pinkish white flowers, and Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’ which has pretty evergreen leaves and fragrant white flowers.

There are some shrubby climbers you can buy to add winter color to deciduous trees. Lonicera standishii ‘Budapest’ is one such example. Semi-evergreen this shrubby honeysuckle has many scented pink-tinged white flowers in mid-winter, followed by red berries. It will grow up to 2m in height and prefers a sheltered position.

Shrubs for spring

Camellias are probably one of the most popular shrubs for early spring flowers. They can be problematic as they need acidic soil, but they can easily be grown in containers in the right compost. Because Camellias are native woodland plants, they grow best in shade or semi-shade. They prefer free-draining conditions with plenty of organic matter and can grow up to 3m in height. Perhaps the main problem for Camellias is frost which can damage flowers. A Good variety is Camellia x williamsii ‘Saint Ewe’ which has rose-pink flowers from January to April and seems to be quite resistant to frost. Azaleas are beautiful spring flowering shrubs. Growing in sun or shade in well-drained soil, varieties can grow up to 15ft and have flowers ranging from white to deep purple/pink. Azalea ‘Adonis’ has gorgeous white flowers in May and grows up to 75cm. Azalea ‘Aladdin’ also flowers in May but has strong red flowers. You just can’t ignore the gorgeous yellow flowers of Forsythia in early spring. It can be grown as a stand-alone specimen or as part of a border and is a useful shrub for hedging. It likes moist but well-drained soil but will grow well anywhere. Forsythia x intermedia ‘Spectabilis’ is a vigorous variety which has deep yellow flowers from mid to late spring and grows up to 300cm in height. Kerria Japonica or Japanese Yellow Rose is another spring flowering shrub with sunny yellow flowers. Varieties can have either single or double flowers. It is suitable for a border or a woodland garden and grows to around 2m in height. Pieris Japonica is an all-year-round shrub, with attractive foliage in summer and slightly fragrant clusters of bell-shaped white, pink or red flowers in early spring. They can be grown in a shrub border but are just as at home in garden planters. ‘Mountain Fire’ has particularly attractive glossy red leaves.

Summer flowering shrubs

Hydrangea is a deciduous shrub that can suit any type of garden. There are many varieties that are divided up into two main groups. ‘Lacecaps’ that have flattened flower heads, and ‘Hortensias’ that have spherical flower heads of large flowers. Flower colors range from pinks to blues. He more acidic the soil, the bluer the flower will be. Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ is a spectacular variety, with large conical blooms from July to September which open in a soft shade of pea green and gradually change to cream and finally a delicate soft pink as they mature. It will grow to up to 250cm. Hibiscus syriacus, also called Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous flowering shrub that can reach a height of around 4m. It likes very warm conditions in full sun where it displays an abundance of attractive white, pink, red, lavender, or purple flowers. It is an easy plant to grow as it develops quickly once planted and doesn’t mind being moved. Buddleja’s are also very easy to grow. They like well drained soil and plenty of sunshine. Their flowers of pink to blue/purple provide a summer spectacle in August when they are covered in butterflies which feed on their nectar. They do require hard pruning in spring to encourage plenty of new growth. ‘Pink Delight’ has conical spikes of claret buds opening to produce lovely, orange-eyed flowers in a strong pink.

Shrubs for autumn interest

Euonymus can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, often with fine autumn color. The leaves of Euonymus alatus turn a beautiful rosy-crimson in autumn. It is very hardy and grows up to 2.5m in height and spread. Cotinus or Smoke Tree is a true delight. They are large deciduous shrubs or small trees whose leaves produce wonderful autumn color from yellow to deep reds. Very hardy, they have a bushy habit and can grow up to 8m in height. Berberis can also be large deciduous shrubs or small trees with spiny shoots bearing tiny leaves. Berberis thunbergii has leaves that turn a deep orange/red in autumn followed by red fruit. It has an ultimate height and spread of around 1.5m and is therefore suitable form most gardens.

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Planting A Fall Vegetable Garden

If you’re like most gardeners, you probably consider August to be the tail end of the growing season. The truth of the matter is that it’s a great time to start your fall garden.

A fall garden can produce excellent vegetables and extend your crops long after your spring planted garden is finished. The vegetables you harvest from the fall garden are often sweeter and milder than those grown over the summer.

What type of vegetable plants you plant in your fall garden will depend on the space you have, as well as the types of vegetables you like. Be sure that you plant vegetables with the shortest growing season, this will increase the chances they will be full grown and harvested before the hard frost sets in. Starting your seeds indoors the first week of July will also give you a good head start.

Most seed packages will be labeled “early season”, or you can find the seeds that are labeled with the fewest days to harvest.  Since seeds are not usually kept in stock towards the end of summer, you will probably need to purchase seeds for your fall garden in the spring. You can also find them easily online.

Even vegetables that like the heat of summer, like tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and peppers, will produce nicely until harder frosts hit, which can be fairly late in the year in certain areas.

There are certain vegetable plants that normally stop producing towards the end of summer. These include snap-beans, summer squash, and cucumbers. Even these, if planted in the middle of summer, can produce nicely until the first frosts arrive. Many hardy vegetables will grow with temperatures as low as 20 degrees.

If you have root plants such as beets, carrots or radishes, that have the tops killed by a freeze, you can save them by applying a heavy layer of mulch.

For fall gardening you need to know approximately when the first hard frost normally hits your particular area.  The Farmer’s Almanac is a great resource for this type of information.  It will give you specific dates and is fairly accurate most of the time.  You also need to know approximately how long your plants will take to mature. As I said, this is available by reading the individual seed packets.

To prepare the soil for your fall garden, the first thing you will need to do is clear out leftover summer crops and weeds.  If you leave the leftover vines and plant debris from your summer crops, bacteria and diseases can develop from these leftover remnants.  If your spring plants were not fertilized heavily, you may want to spread a few inches of compost over the garden next.

Once that is done you will need to till the soil and wet it down. Now simply wait 24 hours and your ready to plant.

All too often gardeners will shy away from planting a fall garden, to avoid dealing with frosts. I can tell you from experience that sturdy and healthy vegetables can stand up to a few frosty nights, while producing wonderfully tasting produce.

Fall gardening is not for everyone, but why not give it a try? It can provide you with the opportunity to enjoy garden fresh vegetables for a little while longer each year.