There are a lot of pests and diseases—even nutrient deficiencies–just waiting to pounce on our vegetables/flowers/trees/shrubs. It can be overwhelming to know what to do. So here are some things to keep in mind. Identify the problem If you are not 100% sure what the problem is, bring a sample to a reputable garden center … Read more
I’ve already had several questions about how to avoid problems in vegetable gardens, so thought it seemed timely to repost this blog on preventing and/or treating problems. Our garden vegetables are prone to certain diseases. Our best defense is knowledge and good cultural practices. Diseases are opportunistic—tending to attack stressed plants. Starting with healthy organic-rich … Read more
I’ve enjoyed writing blogs for The Great Big Greenhouse for the past few years. One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is learning new and interesting facts. I thought I’d share with you 12 of the most fun and interesting things I’ve learned so far: There are several species of fireflies native to Virginia. Most … Read more
We got in some beautiful Dragon Wing begonia hanging baskets and I bought one and hung it by the front door last week. Two days later, as I was walking in the door from work. I saw a few bits of debris on the ground. I sighed, knowing what I was going to find—the beginnings … Read more
Okay, so I’ve got all my veggies planted. I can put up my feet and relax now, right? Not exactly. Here’s what I need to do now: Stay on top of weeds Right now, weed seedlings are already popping up in my freshly planted raised beds. If I slack off, they can quickly get out … Read more
Considering the number of customers I’ve had looking for plants to repel mosquitoes, I thought I’d repost this blog from a couple of years ago… Swirling cloaks, spooky music, and a voice with a Hungarian accent saying “Good E-e-e-vening.” Or incredibly annoying little insects buzzing around your face and feasting on every square inch of … Read more
There are so many peppers to choose from that it can be overwhelming to pick one. What are the differences? Sweet peppers have a nice earthy flavor but no heat. Traditionally called green peppers or bell peppers, they usually mature to a totally different color. Green pepper is basically an unripe bell pepper. If you … Read more
Tis the season—to plant tomatoes Tomatoes are native to the Americas, like peppers, and were grown by the Aztecs who called the fruits “tomatl”—meaning “plump thing with navel.” Tomatoes are botanically berries, believe it or not! So which one is the best? Well, I can only tell you my favorites because there are tiny nuances … Read more
I have a raised bed at the front of my yard, just in front of a large maple tree. I used to grow impatiens there. They did great in the shade; however, they are thirsty little plants. By mid-summer I was having to water every single solitary day—and if it was a little on the … Read more
What vegetable is low in calories, high in fiber, a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—and tastes delicious? Asparagus, of course. And, since yesterday was April Fools Day—no fooling! Here are a few interesting facts about asparagus: Thomas Jefferson had asparagus beds at Monticello and often ate it marinated in oil, red wine vinegar, … Read more
