Small space gardening is all the rage and rightly so! It is amazing how many types of veggies you can grow in a very little space when you grow them upwards. While many plants are naturally inclined to trail – others need a little coaxing at first, but will happily comply as long as they have great soil, plenty of sunlight, enough water, and a good support system.
If you live virtually anywhere in North America, you’ve likely heard of, and been irritated by pigweed. This green, unassuming weed has long been considered a severe nuisance since every single plant can produce nearly 100,000 seeds each season. If you’ve ever looked into healthy grain alternatives, you’ve probably come across something known as amaranth. A “super grain,” gluten-free, pseudocereal that is prized for its notable health benefits. Believe it or not, these two plants are actually one and the same. Read on as we delve into the truth behind pigweed and set the record straight once and for all.
Most gardeners tend to stay in their comfort zone, growing a collection of traditional fruits and veggies such as tomatoes, blueberries, and potatoes. However, there is a whole other world of exciting, intriguing edible plants out there just waiting to be discovered. Many of these exotic plants are not only delicious but incredibly eye-catching, as well. If you’re ready to take on a new challenge and try something adventurous, these strange fruits and veggies may just plants for you.
When you think of food preservation, the first thing that probably comes to mind is canning. What you might not know is that there are numerous ways, some old, some new, to store your fresh garden harvest and other foods through the winter and beyond. Knowing which preservation methods work best for certain foods will help ensure the best and freshest flavor.
If you love spicy things, you have to love peppery tasting horseradish ( Amoracia rusticana). This hardy clumping perennial herb dates back over 3000 years and is harvested for its roots that add a zip to a variety of dishes, including roast beef and cocktail sauce. The leaves of the plant are also edible when they are young, but take care not to allow animals to eat them as they are mildly toxic.
Do you have a pear tree in your yard that is just a little overwhelming at the peak harvest time? If so, your kitchen is likely overflowing with rapidly ripening pears that you don’t know what to do with. Try these easy ideas to take advantage of your bounty and enjoy the sweet, subtle flavor of this delicious fruit.
There’s nothing like the crisp crunch of fresh, homegrown lettuce in a healthy, vibrant salad. If you’re tired of only being able to grow lettuce in the temperature spring and fall months, it’s time to utilize the power of the cold frame and double the growing season of this yummy veggie. Before you grab some nails and a hammer and get to work, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here’s all you need to know to set up and use a cold frame for growing lettuce all winter long.
While indoor plants for decor are undoubtedly beautiful, there’s something to be said for plants that are pretty and functional. If you love to cook, want easy access to fragrant herbs for drying or tea making, or simply have an empty kitchen windowsill that you want to fill, consider planting an indoor herb garden. Don’t worry, it’s not as hard as you think, and if you follow these simple tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, free herbs all year long.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but if you don’t live in a tropical environment, that lemon tree you planted oh-so-hopefully in your garden isn’t going to make it through winter. There is a sliver lining; however. With a little patience and persistence, you can grow your very own lemon tree indoors. Fresh lemons await! Here’s what you need to do to get started.
It’s always a sad day when that temperamental wind races through your garden and dislodges unripe tomatoes from the vine. Not to worry! You can turn those tomatoes into yummy pickles with just a few simple steps. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy green tomatoes and give you a delightful snack throughout the winter months.
Life can get busy very quickly, especially in the prime gardening months of the spring and summer, and it can be hard to chisel out time from your tight schedule to spend in the garden. If you find yourself searching for ways to maximize your precious garden time and become more efficient, then these tips are for you. Read on to find out more.
Susan has been nurturing her gardening tips and advice for over 00 years, it’s fair to say she knows her beans. She’ll be sharing her knowledge from tried and tested methods.
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