Mark asks…
How to start a Vegetable Garden?
Hey! I plan on starting a vegetable garden soon, I’ve never done any gardening before. Would an experience gardener like to offer some advice? I’ve got a few basic questions!
1) Do you test pH levels of the dirt in your garden? If so, can you have different pH levels in each row of plants?
2) I read that you can’t plant strawberries close to peppers because they spread diseases. Have you tried this before? Is it better to have 2 gardens?
3) What do I need to do to the soil beforehand? Obviously I need to loosen it up a bit, maybe get some nice healthy dirt in there. Make it moist. Anything else?
4) What tools should I buy to start off with? I’m thinking a shovel, a trowel, some gloves, and a cultivator.Would you suggest anything else?
5) I know I’m a bit late on the spring season. What are good items to plant at this time? (I live in Tallahassee, FL) I would really like peppers, strawberries, spinach, and butternut squash (or pumpkin). Possibly blueberries or raspberries. Are these ok to plant at this time of the year?
6) Where is a good, local, informative place to shop for plants, seeds, tools, etc? I’d like an organic garden.
Any other advice you’d like to offer? Thanks a bunch for any help!!! I really appreciate it!!!
Any other advice???
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Veggies need at least 6 hours of sun per day. And lots and lots of water everyday if you do not get rain.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about home gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com (vegetables and flowers)
http://www.burpee.com (vegetables and flowers)
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com (pests and insects)
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You can grow vegetables in large containers too.
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Vegetable potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for veggies, OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
William asks…
I want to plant a flower garden im SE Missouri.?
I just need some help picking the best ones to stay around all spring and into fall… Are there any like that? Or you can just tell me some good flowers for SouthEast Missouri.
GardenersCardiff answers:
Checkout Springhill Nurseries. Their catalogs have “planned gardens” that are designed to compliment each other in color and bloom, with plants that bloom continually with plants that bloom at different times.
I don’t know if their website offers the same feature — but they’ll be more than happy to send you a catalog and a discount coupon.
These planned gardens — some for shade, some for sun, some for around a fence, next to the house, etc. Etc., will give you lots of info and inspiration. The catalog — as well as the site — will indicate the zone-hardiness for the plants they sell.
Your local garden center will also be helpful, as they will carry plants that are suitable for your locale.
Perennials will offer blooms only once, unfortunately. Annuals will continue to bloom through a season. The ideal is to create a garden with a mix of perennials and easy-to-deal-with annuals. The “exception” to this rule are roses. Hybrid bush roses will bloom intermittently from early summer to the first frost, but rarely will they have blooms continually.
All that aside, look into Columbines. They are billed as “biennials,” but are actually perennials — blooming their second or third year after planting from seed. You can get mature plants from the garden center, and they will reseed themselves, often creating offspring of unusual color. Generally, Columbines start blooming early-to-mid-May and continue through mid-to-late June. Columbines are beautiful, graceful, medium tall, and attract butterflies and humming birds, so I am always eager to suggest a gardener to get a few established in their yard.
Good luck and happy gardening.
ADDED: Laney made a good suggestion, but they are called Purple Cone Flowers, otherwise known as Echinacea. They are perennials, medium tall, and bloom from mid-summer to mid-to-late fall, so they do have a long blooming season. Another is bee balm. This is a perennial that spreads rapidly and comes in various purple to red flowers, is very aromatic, and true to its name, attracts bees and often hummingbirds. This also blooms from early-to-mid summer to late-fall. (Makes great potpourri also).
Http://springhillnursery.com/default.asp?t=xx&eid=081506&sid=411065&gclid=CNTH0aKUxZECFQUolgodJDiJ3Q
Chris asks…
where can i buy some decollete snails for my garden ?
GardenersCardiff answers:
Http://gardeningzone.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=64&osCsid=2dbabafdee18f0c0b17cccea0265601c
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Joseph asks…
Do you think I can be a catalog model?
I’m 15, not exactly tall so theres no way I can do runway. I’m in decent shape. 5’2”.
Here are a few images:
http://i53.tinypic.com/140au4k.jpg
theres a shard of glass because we celebrated halloween today at my school, haha.
http://i54.tinypic.com/2zylsvl.jpg
sorry both the pictures are edited but effect and sharpness only. I didn’t do any retouching. Thanks for your opinion!
haha, this one was just for fun
http://i53.tinypic.com/rud1mf.jpg
no edit.
I’m only asking again because I didn’t get very many responses to my previous post. Sorry.
GardenersCardiff answers:
Catalog models have even stricter requirements than runway models. You MUST be 5’7″ – 5’9″ with a 34-35″ inseam and measurements between 34-24-34 and 36-26-36 — no exceptions unless it’s for something like a toy or gardening catalog that doesn’t feature clothing.
And for petite catalogs, you must be 5’5″ – 5’6″ with a 32-33″ inseam and measurements within 1″of 34-24-34
A catalog model needs to fit perfectly into production samples without any alterations. Unlike runway where the clothes are one of a kind pieces that can be fit to a specific model, catalog shoots do not have a seamstress on the set – they need people who can put on the clothes and have them fit perfectly as they come off the hanger
You are cute and could do commercial print work but not catalogs
Sandra asks…
Gardening – Do you have a green thumb?
Going on my first spring/summer season in my new home and I would like to make a nice little garden in the back yard with both some flowers and veggies.
Is it better to start your seeds inside in like a makeshift greenhouse (out of egg cartons, for example)?
I live in the Chicagoland/NW Indiana area. What are the best flowers and veggies to grow?
Around when should I start preparing?
Any other thoughts or tips?
Thanks.
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more. You do not have to buy from them:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Ken asks…
How to Start a Garden?
I’ve had a garden behind my house for the past 2 years, the ground is cleared and everything. I’ve never shown much of an interest in it though, and my parents usually took care of it.
Now, I’m a freshman, and I took some science classes on agriculture, and I really want to test everything I know by growing food in the garden behind my house.
So, how do I get started with that? If I want to start this weekend, what food should I grow? How much? What seeds should I buy for this time of year? How do I make sure my plants grows well?
Any and all advice will be greatly appreciated!
GardenersCardiff answers:
Instructions
1.
* 1
Grow only those vegetables you enjoy eating. Give priority to those prized for incredible flavor when eaten fresh from the garden: sweet corn, beans and peas, tomatoes and young spinach, among others.
* 2
Prepare a plot of flat ground that gets full sun nearly all day. Break up and turn the soil and add compost or other organic material (See How to Buy Soil Amendments). A full day of blazing sunshine is especially important if you grow vegetables in the cool weather of early spring, early fall or winter.
*
Sponsored Links
o Free Samples In Your Mail
Request Samples of Brand Products. Absolutely Free.
Www.freeflys.com
* 3
Figure out how much growing space you have and plant accordingly. Lettuce, for example, can be grown in a solid mat, but tomatoes need to be spaced about 2 feet (60 cm) apart. Give pumpkins at least 4 feet (120 cm) of growing room. Growing requirements are provided on seed packets, in catalogs, and on nursery tags, as well as in books on growing vegetables.
* 4
Choose crops that require less room if you have a small vegetable garden or grow vegetables in a container. Lettuce is a great pot plant, and ‘Patio’ or ‘Tumbler’ tomatoes will grow well in a hanging basket. Plants that climb and vine, such as cucumbers and pole beans, can be trained up a trellis to take up less room horizontally. Tuck herbs and parsley into flower beds.
* 5
Schedule plantings around the two main growing seasons which vary by region: cool (spring and fall) and warm (summer). Common cool-season vegetables include beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, lettuce, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach and turnips. Warm-season crops include beans, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, peppers, pumpkins, squash and tomatoes.
* 6
Sow some seeds directly in the ground as they grow best that way: beans, beets, carrots, chard, corn, lettuce, melons, peas, pumpkins, squash and turnips. Starting seeds is, of course, much less expensive than planting seedlings sold in flats, packs and pots.
* 7
Start with nursery seedlings of certain other crops unless you are an experienced vegetable grower. These plants tend to do better when set out in the garden as seedlings: eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. Squash and cucumbers are among a few you can plant just as effectively as either seeds or seedlings.
* 8
Buy seeds at nurseries or by mail order starting just after the New Year, when the selection is freshest. Look for seed packets marked as having been packed for the current year.
* 9
Buy vegetables online and from mail-order seed companies for a far greater selection than you’ll find at neighborhood nurseries. Burpee (burpee.com), Johnny’s Selected Seeds (johnnyseeds .com), Park Seed Company (parkseed.com) and Thompson and Morgan (thompson-morgan.com) are a few long-established sources.
* 10
Shop for seedlings when your soil is prepared and you are ready to plant. Keep them moist and don’t let them sit around for more than three days. Buy healthy and vigorous seedlings. They should stand up straight and be stocky, not lanky, with no yellow leaves or bug holes.
* 11
Save money and get truly involved with your garden by starting seeds indoors in winter and transplanting them into the garden in spring. It’s simplest to start with complete kits, sold at garden centers and through catalogs, containing fluorescent lights, soil mix, containers and watering devices.
* 12
Sow seeds of colorful radishes or giant sunflowers to introduce children to the satisfaction and fun of growing their own food. Or lean 3 stakes together, tie them together at the top, and train pole beans up the stakes. Voila! A bean teepee.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
James asks…
Starting a garden,,,what are the easiest flowers to begin with?
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Thomas asks…
Ok is there an easy way to garden ???
Ok I want to plant a garden (never done it before) I want both Veggie and flower garden how hard is it and what is the easiest things to take care and hard to kill I am afraid I will kill everything but I love the looks and I really want to have a sucessful couple gardens (flowers and veggies)
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Sharon asks…
English Flower Garden?
I’m interested in creating an authentic English garden, and I was wondering if anyone knows of any English seed catalogs that I can order through the mail? Thanks…
I’m zone 5, and where I’m at gets a good amount of rainfall all year…
GardenersCardiff answers:
You will need Thompson and Morgan, and Sutton’s seed catalogues, they have the finest varieties (possibly too many) that you can grow. Both are English companies and will send postal. Where are you ? Climate plays are large part in the `English` garden, and if you are in any of the arrid Southern States you may need to be very selective. If you care to post again with US zone or climate description before you buy seed, I can advise.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Donald asks…
What should I plant in my garden?
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Daniel asks…
designing a garden?
are there any cd’s that will help me design a garden or is ther any free website that would help me
thanks
GardenersCardiff answers:
Try BHG.com, gardengatemagazine.com, or finegardening.com. They have garden plans as do the flower supplier catalogs like DirectGardening.com.
Helen asks…
How Many People Actually Enjoy Getting Catalogs Door-To-Door vs. How Many Do Not?
Now, no one get angry or hostile..lol. I’m not looking to annoy anyone with leaving my home decor catalogs on peoples door to door, but I did want to know how many of you have actually enjoyed a catalog left at your door, how many actually bought from that catalog, and how many threw it away. Thanks ya’ll!
GardenersCardiff answers:
I love receiving my garden catalogs. In fact I order them directly from the companies.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Nancy asks…
starting a garden?
i want to start a garden in my backyard. i’m not sure what we’re going to plant yet, but i really want a garden! are there any websites that anyone knows that is like gardening for beginners? i need to figure out how to do the soil, fertilizers, get the ground ready, basically everything to start a garden. thanks!
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
William asks…
So, who else has started to plan their garden?
I received my favorite gardening catalog in the mail the other day, and now I’m planning my garden. Are there any other gardeners out there who have started planning their gardens already? What do you plan to put in them? Just curious… :o)
Oops! I guess I should mention what I’m planting, eh? :o)
Seeds of Change is the only catalog I order from, and, boy, do they have some cool varieties this year! I may even try amaranth or quinoa if I can find space for them. Otherwise, I always plant tomatoes, potatoes, hot peppers, sweet peppers, sunflowers, squash, corn, basil, and I need to replant strawberries… that’s where I’m at, for now. I have asperagus and blueberries plus catnip, beebalm, and chives (assuming they make it through winter) already in the garden. My daughter has her own garden, though I don’t think she’s planned it, yet.. I have grapevines, but I neglected them last year. I’ll be busy trimming them and installing trellises this spring. Fun, fun, fun! :o)
GardenersCardiff answers:
Yes, that’s me 
I always plan my garden for the coming year in winter time. It’s nice to look at flower catalogs and try to match them together (growing conditions, colors, etc), it’s a good way to be active during winter.
Mostly I grow my plants from seeds except perennials that only available as potted plants or slow growing. I already got 12 catalogs: Burpee, Parkseed, Jungseed, etc and with that many catalogs to look at, it’s hard to choose which ones I’m gonna try
Here is my list so far:
Begonia Queen White, Petunia Avalanche, Aster Bouquet Powderpuff, Baptisia Australis, Miss Lucy (Double) Oriental Lily, Rudbeckia Prairie Sun, Echinecia Baby Swan, Laurentia and some bicolor gladiolus (Flaming Meteor, Blue Frost)
Donald asks…
i need catalog suggestions?
i shop at lilian vernon and fingerhut….but are there any other catalogs that offer that type of stuff for your home,car and garden?
GardenersCardiff answers:
Lakeside Collection has a nice variety and low, low prices on home and garden , gadgets and other stuff. I always enjoy looking through this catalog, although I don’t always buy.
Ginny’s is mostly home and garden and has an easy-to-get choose and charge plan.
Seventh Avenue is affiliated with Ginny’s and has similar items.
Collections Etc. Has a lot of fun, seasonal items, most things are less than $20.
There are tons more catalogs available but these are some of the ones that I enjoy. Google ‘catalogs’ for lots more choices.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Michael asks…
What’s an easy way to start growing my own herbs and veggies?
I am about to move and would like to start organic gardening. Any tips on composting, making beds, watering, planting times and tips? I have a dog too and am not sure how she’ll act. And i’m pretty cheap(read-broke)
GardenersCardiff answers:
I would suggest the first thing you do is read all you can on square foot gardening. You can get the book “The New Square Foot Garden” by Mel Bartholomew at your public library.
Also, look up information on the EarthBox growing system. They are self-watering containers that enable you to grow lots of produce (I’ve seen a picture of a very large tree growing in one) in a confined space. There are also knock-offs that you can build yourself with comparable results.
I would also suggest you read all you can on the internet about composting. The best time to start composting is yesterday ;o). I’ve always bought bags of compost from the store, but there’s a great amount of satisfaction you get from doing it yourself.
I don’t know how much space you’re working with, but if you have a relatively large amount of space, I would suggest you grow your own seedlings. The biggest investment you’d have to make would be buying a florescent light fixture and a rack to put your plants on. You’ll save big bucks over buying a lot of plants from the garden center. You will need to research planting times for your area. The biggest mistake people make (me included) is getting too excited and starting their plants too early.
One last comment. Check out the Gardenweb website. It’s a wonderful community of knowledgeable folks who are glad to answer whatever questions you have.
Good luck.
Ruth asks…
I am wanting to grow my own herbs. Can I do that inside or grow them outside on the apartment deck.?
I live in utah right now, so burr. I plan on growing them insdie. Where is the best place inside? Do they need sun light?
I have 2 small dogs , so the plants have to be on a counter.
Thanks Hannah
GardenersCardiff answers:
You can grow them either inside or outside depending on where you live. If you live in a hot climate you may want to consider keeping then indoors because the plants may fade or dry out. In a warm climate you can keep the herbs inside or outside although you should take them inside during foul weather. If you live in a cold climate keep them indoors so frost doesn’t kill them. If you decide to grow the herbs indoors, make sure that they are well watered and sit by a sunny window. If you decide to grow them outdoors be on the lookout for pests. Never under estimate the squirrels, they will eat anything in their path. Happy planting! Oh and you will get a longer and larger harvest (steady temperature and no pests to compete with) if you plant them inside.
Laura asks…
Can someone tell me how to grow my own basil and parsley?
Can i grow it inside or does it have to be done outside?
also if you know of any good websites that explain how to grow different fruits or veggies that would be great.
I would like to start my own garden of a few different things
thanks
GardenersCardiff answers:
I love to grow my own herbs and have learned a few things through trial and error. For example– Basil does really well in a pot, but if kept indoors, it does not seem to grow as big as its cousins outside. If you grow it inside I have found that buying plants gets me the yield I need. I have not grown parsley as often, but I found the same things to be true. Also at this late date, for immediate consumption whether indoors or out, a plant is better than seeds as I started my seeds back in February and they are just starting to be really harvestable. Another nice easy herb to grow is Rosemary and depending on where you live it can be a perenial or an annual. I have had one growing in my kitchen for 2 years now and it even thrives on neglect! In California, they use the stuff as landscape plantings so you know its got to be hardy.
Hope this helps.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Laura asks…
I need so much help with what to plan outside. I do not have a green thumb when it comes to outside plants.?
Anyway, I need some help in figuring out which shrubs I should plant to border my lower deck. the shrubs will be in a rock garden. I need a shrub that grows quickly and is hardy. Also, something that isn’t toxic to my dog. Please help!
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Jenny asks…
Why are some knives banned while others, bigger and just as sharp, are sold for kitchen use? Or garden use?
I see catalog descriptions of knives, both folding and fixed blade, various lengths and materials, there seems to be no consistency as to why some are forbidden in certain states.
GardenersCardiff answers:
The “why” might be lost to the whims of history, but there probably is some consistency. You can look up individual states’ statutes regarding knives to find the restrictions.
_
Maria asks…
Does any one know a garden center, nursey, or other place that has alot of different seeds, in Greenwood IN?
I’m starting a garden and I wanted some strawberries seeds or a little strawberry plant. My garden will have flowers and vegtables in it. I have enough flower seeds, but I want vegtables seeds too. I know that I want to grow strawberries, blue berries, lettace, tomatoes, and other vegtables. I also wanted some other vegtable plants.
GardenersCardiff answers:
You can buy seeds online. This nursery sells hundreds of different seeds: http://www.naturehills.com/catalog/Seeds.aspx
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Charles asks…
Is it very wrong to collect snails in my garden and throw them over the hedge into my neighbours neglected…
…garden?
The Drunken Fool,
You’re a cad, Sir! Throwing snails into a well-tended garden.
GardenersCardiff answers:
It’s the right and proper thing to do.If he kept his garden nice, then you wouldn’t do it. Although I would carry on, it’s much more fun!
Sharon asks…
In which countries are garden centres (and gardening) popular?
Which countries around the world have lots of gardening centres?
There are certainly plenty in my native England, because there are so many keen gardeners. Where else would I expect to see garden centres, and gardens that the householders look after?
GardenersCardiff answers:
Well, I’m sure it is impossible to say since I’ve never been everywhere, but I’d assume that although quite a few countries may not have the “Garden Center”, they do have avid gardeners. Just to name a few, the places I’m certain you can expect to find household gardens are in:
Great Britain
United States
India
China
Japan
Australia
Spain
Mexico
Holland
Germany
Russia
Canada
There are just way too many to mention, but you get the point. Gardening and the love of Gardening is not unique to any country.
Lizzie asks…
What department stores have good GARDENING DEPARTMENTS?
You know how Wal-Mart and K-Mart both have pretty big gardening departments? Well I don’t have either of those stores near me. I’m in Los Angeles, but for some reason they aren’t as big or popular here.
What other stores have good gardening departments? I don’t think Target does, as far as I know. Any others?
GardenersCardiff answers:
Lot’s of hardware stores have a section in the back that has garden stuff. I love to just browse those stores myself.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
John asks…
Will Rye and Radish seeds grow better with or without garlic powder and why?
This is my final exam for my biology class and I have no way to obtain the seeds needed, everywhere is out of lawn and garden supplies. I have told my teacher about my problem and she says it is my problem not hers. I am not sure how to go about this but I can’t fail this class, PLEASE help!
GardenersCardiff answers:
You can try some seed catalog companies:
Bupee Seed Catalog: www.Burpee.com
Parks Seed Catalog: www.parksseed.com
Henry Fields Catalog: www.Henryfields.com
Call their toll-free number and explain you problem. I’m sure they will be able to ship you the needed seeds quickly.
As far at the garlic powder is concerned, the only effect I know of is garlic powder is likely to inhibit some kinds of bacteria. As the powder is broken down it may contain some nutrients that the growing seedlings might use. I predicted that there will little difference between the treated seeds and the controls. You were planning to use the same types of seeds in the same potting soil as the treated seeds with garlic powder.
Ken asks…
We make environmentally sound products how do we reach the buyer?
We are asking what will motivate people to search out safer chemicals such as cleaners and garden supplys. Is it government regulations or are there people out there searching for these products?
GardenersCardiff answers:
I worked once for distributor that represented a small company that obtained u.s. Rights to a soil microorganism that was discovered in england and was researched by university of idaho and found significant agricultural applications to ward of soil diseases by becoming part of the plants root system. This was 11 years ago. A large chemical company and a large contributor to the university forced them to sell rights to the microorganism to their corporation west of texas, therefore giving them California. Meaning they had the most environmentally progressive and largest market. They shelved the product. Underfunded we struggled on for two years. The owner had to regretfully let us go. He is still hanging on to this day. The product is safe, i got testing started by organic farmers, nurseries, other universities, county agents, even a prison system but with little money it was to little or no avail and the product still not widely known. That is how it works.
Sandra asks…
Where can I buy a porch goose in the New Orleans area?
I’m trying to find a housewarming gift for my sister. I’m headed down later this week and want to bring her a cement/concrete porch goose (very self explanatory), but don’t want to bring it with me from Ohio, where they’re pretty ubiquitous.
Does anybody know of garden supply stores in the Metairie/Kenner/Destrehan areas where I can find such a thing? Please let me know!
GardenersCardiff answers:
I dont know if they specifically have a porch goose but both are great garden centers.
Perino’s Garden Center Company
3100 Veterans Memorial Blvd , Metairie , LA , 70002-6044
Garden shop offers roses and plants at reasonable prices and offers a large selection.
Charvet’s Garden Center
4511 Clearview Pkwy , Metairie , LA , 70006-2393
This garden center’s two locations offer convenience, knowledge and professional care.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>
Joseph asks…
What are your favorite catalogs you receive in the mail during the holidays?
I’ve been getting all kinds of catalogs lately. They’re gearing up for Christmas. I look most foward to the cheese gift baskets and cool gadgets catalogs. I’m just wondering what some of your favorites are.
GardenersCardiff answers:
I like the Figis catalog, Harry & David, Lillian Vernon for personalized gifts, Bloomingdales, Sharper Image (but I don’t think they are still in business), Smith & Hawkins garden tool and stuff, Spiegel, Brylane Home and Home Decorators.
Lizzie asks…
How do I determine if the plants in my garden are weeds?
Is there an online picture gallery of weeds so that I can look at the plant in my garden and compare it with the pictures? I think I know what some weeds look like, but I don’t want to pull a good plant accidentally. Yes, I forgot what I planted in my garden.
GardenersCardiff answers:
That happens to a lot of us!
Go to this link and you will find several website to check out:
http://www.google.com/search?q=flower+photos&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-Address&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7
You can also send for free gardening catalogs:
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
William asks…
Can you give me some tips on how to keep a small garden neat, tidy and presentable?
I’m hoping to get the garden in order as we come into spring, anything you can share? I’d like to have a small vegetable plot or some flower beds but any advice would be very helpful.
Thanks a lot.
I’m certainly not a “dole dosser” as you put it Malcolm.
GardenersCardiff answers:
You are gonna love gardening, don’t try to do it all in one year. Get to know where the sun shines the most, and where the shaded areas are. Because you will need flowers for the sun areas, and flowers for the shaded areas.
Since you are a beginner, this year start your garden with plants that you get from a garden center or nursery. They are called bedding plants and come in a six pack. Look for a little tag sticking in the six pact showing directions on how to grow the plants. If the tag is not there, ask for one or buy something else. Directions are VERY important.
Seeds are not always easy to grow. And wildflowers are the hardest so don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.
Two good things to do for yourself is to call your local County Extension Service and ask for all the information that they have about gardening in your area. They usually have a packet/kit of things for the home gardener.
And number two would be to pick up a couple of beginner books. You really do need to know about soil, compost, mulch and etc.
To keep from over watering or not watering enough, buy a water analyzer from a nursery or garden center. Be sure to read the directions. This will be one of your best tools.
Send for some free gardening catalogs and get use to the different types of plants, colors, and when to plant. They are filled with good informtion and pictures. And they will keep you company during the long winter months. Here is a list of just a very few. There are hundreds more:
http://www.waysidegardens.com
http://www.dutchbulbs.com
http://www.jacksonandperkins.com (Roses)
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
Other catalogs:
http://www.leevalley.com
http://www.gardeners.com
http://www.GardensAlive.com
http://www.deerbusters.com (all types of animal control)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Container/pots/window boxes needs:
All need holes in the bottem for water drainage,
Potting soil that comes in bags,
Slow release fertilizer for flowers (not for green plants), OR liquid fertilizer that will need to be used more often-read directions,
Water crystals to be mixed into the soil for holding water,
Bedding plants or full grown plants.
Here is an excellent link to check out for color combinations and plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/recipes.html
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
]]>