Uncategorized

We know less about life in the earth under our feet than we do about the far side of the moon. Yet every plant and animal you can think of depends on this vast hidden ecosystem. Each shovel of soil holds more living things than all the human beings ever born. Lots of species are…

State restricts use of phosphorus in fertilizers and “weed and feed” products. A state law that limits the percentage of phosphorus in lawn fertilizers and restricts the time of year when and locations where fertilizers can be used went into effect on Jan. 1. The New York State Dishwasher Detergent and Nutrient Runoff Law was…

Gardeners interested in a more natural look for their landscapes were treated to an inspiring and insightful talk on a Sunday afternoon at Bridge Gardens in Bridgehampton by Duncan and Julia Brine. The principal designer and his wife and partner in the Pawling, New York-based Garden Large Naturalistic Landscape Design said that they believe that…

Get your garden off to a great start with these tips for sowing and transplanting. One sunny morning coming soon, you’ll feel an irresistible urge to plant your garden. Before you pick up a trowel or open a seed packet, check out these hints to help you succeed. Transplanting Seedlings Whether it’s a flat of…

There are many benefits and lessons to learn from organic gardening. Among them is how to control insects through plant diversity. When insects like bees and leafhoppers can control their own populations, there’s no need for pesticides. Insects keep themselves in natural check because some of them are natural predators of each other, says organic…

By taking a few simple steps when designing and maintaining your yard, you and your family can enjoy a unique, attractive landscape that saves water. Plants Use regionally appropriate, low water-using and native plants. Once established, these plants require little water beyond normal rainfall. Also, because native plants are adapted to local soils and climatic…

Clay or sand, sun or shade: these factors determine which plants will grow well and which will fail, so spend a little time getting to know your garden’s conditions. Testing Your Soil There are two main types of soil particles: sand and clay. Sand particles are relatively large and water drains freely through the spaces…

Enjoy healthy, tasty, organic vegetables fresh from your garden.Try these tips for success. Starting Out Right For the healthiest plants, make sure you have good growing conditions. For most vegetables, that means full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sun a day). If you have poor soil, amend it with lots of organic matter,…

How to use trees to reduce the cost of heating and cooling your home. If your home is designed for passive solar heating and cooling, its orientation on the lot is already pre-determined by the architect. This is not typical of the average home though, because lot layout and house positioning is governed by the…

Those of you that live in hot, dry climates know how much water it takes to keep a garden looking its best. If you’re tired of constantly worrying about dying plants and high water bills, then drought resistant landscaping is for you. Here are four tips to get you started. Avoid a lawn. Lawns take a…