The Science of Healthy Soil: What Your Spring Garden Needs to Thrive

The Science of Healthy Soil: What Your Spring Garden Needs to Thrive

If you’ve ever planted a spring garden only to find that it didn’t do as well as it had the year before, chances are high that your soil is the problem. Even if you faithfully add compost to your garden beds and use no-till methods, you may still find that your garden suffers from lackluster growth, or that your vegetables are prone to diseases and pest infestations.

Read More

DIY vs. Pre-Made Garden Beds: Which One Is Best for Your Garden?

DIY vs. Pre-Made Garden Beds: Which One Is Best for Your Garden?

Raised garden beds are a fantastic way to boost your gardening game, helping you improve soil quality and drainage and ease the strain on your back. But before you start planting fresh veggies and colorful flowers, you've got a big question to answer:

Should you build your own raised bed or buy one pre-made?

Read More

Gardening for Beginners: 15 Simple Tips to Start Your Food Garden with Confidence

Gardening for Beginners: 15 Simple Tips to Start Your Food Garden with Confidence

Have you been thinking about starting your very first food garden? You’re in good company. More people are starting to grow at least some of their own food. There are many reasons for it, but among them is a growing realization that gardening has physical and mental health benefits, and a desire to have access to fresh, organic food without having to spend a lot for it. Growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs is one of the most satisfying ways to eat healthier, save money, and enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and moderate exercise while you’re at it.

Read More

What Plants Grow Best in an Indoor Kratky Hydroponic System?

What Plants Grow Best in an Indoor Kratky Hydroponic System?

If you’re anything like me, you’re eagerly anticipating the start of the spring planting season. Normally I’m out in the cold tending to the half-frozen plants in my raised beds and unheated greenhouse, but this year I decided to start a Kratky hydroponic growing system indoors in my basement. The Kratky system is one of the best ways to grow indoors during the cold season, and it’s a great method for beginners and for those who don’t have a lot of resources to spend on gardening. With a few simple tools you can grow a lot of food inside your home, garage, or shed, and best of all, you don’t have to deal with most of the problems that gardeners face when growing plants outdoors, including pests and unpredictable weather conditions.

Read More

The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Growing Your Own Food

The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Growing Your Own Food

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your physical and mental health, reduce stress, and eat healthier, take a look at your own backyard (or windowsill, deck, or sunny room). Gardening is not just a fun and rewarding hobby—it’s a scientifically proven way to improve your well-being. From boosting immunity to providing essential exercise, growing your own food offers a number of health benefits that make it worth the effort.

Read More

Seed Catalogs and Garden Journals: Your Keys to a Productive Harvest

Seed Catalogs and Garden Journals: Your Keys to a Productive Harvest

Did you know that winter is a perfect time to begin planning your garden? A healthy, thriving garden begins with a good plan of action. While the ground may be resting, your preparations right now can set the stage for a productive and thriving garden this spring. Being able to achieve an abundant harvest needs well-thought-out plan. Two tools stand out as must-have essentials for every gardener who wants to be able to enjoy fresh-picked produce from early in the growing season until its end: seed catalogs and garden journals.

Read More

A Beginner’s Guide to Winter Indoor Gardening with Hydroponics

A Beginner’s Guide to Winter Indoor Gardening with Hydroponics

Winter gardening often feels like an uphill battle. Shorter days, unpredictable weather, and freezing temperatures can leave even the most dedicated gardeners feeling limited in their options. Traditional outdoor gardening during the cold season demands careful planning, the right tools, and often a considerable investment in cold-weather infrastructure like greenhouses or row covers. For many growers, it’s just not feasible—but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on harvesting fresh, homegrown produce.

Read More

Sustainable Farming with Plant Biostimulants: What You Need to Know

Sustainable Farming with Plant Biostimulants: What You Need to Know

Plant biostimulants have gained considerable attention in modern agriculture for their ability to enhance plant growth and productivity. As farmers and agricultural experts seek sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, biostimulants are becoming a key component in the quest for higher yields and healthier crops. This article explores the concept of plant biostimulant products, their benefits, and their role in agriculture.

Read More

The Therapeutic Benefits of Planting a Fall Vegetable Garden

The Therapeutic Benefits of Planting a Fall Vegetable Garden

Gardening is increasingly recognized not just as a hobby but also as a therapeutic practice that can have significant health benefits. According to a 2017 study published in the journal Preventative Medicine Reports, engaging in regular gardening activities encourages physical exercise, promotes mental well-being, and provides opportunities for social interaction—all of which contribute to overall health.

Read More

Preparing Your Garden for Fall: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Preparing Your Garden for Fall: Tips for a Smooth Transition

As the seasons change and fall approaches, it's time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. The changing of the seasons brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities for gardeners. Transitioning from summer to fall might seem daunting, but it’s the perfect time to ensure your garden remains healthy and productive. Whether you're putting your plants to bed, readying the soil for the next growing cycle, or strategizing for productive winter planting, each step lays the groundwork for a thriving garden come spring.

Read More

Maximizing Your Harvest: Succession Planting in Container Gardens

Maximizing Your Harvest: Succession Planting in Container Gardens

If you love growing your own food but feel like you should be getting more from your harvest, succession planting may be the answer. Succession planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different crops in the same space throughout the growing season to maximize your harvest. This method is particularly useful for container gardens, where space may be limited but getting a continuous harvest over time is important.

Read More

7 Effective Erosion Control Techniques for Sustainable Farming

7 Effective Erosion Control Techniques for Sustainable Farming

Soil erosion is a silent thief, gradually stealing the fertility of our farmlands and threatening the sustainability of agriculture worldwide. For farmers striving to maintain productive and resilient farms, combating erosion is not just an option—it's a necessity.

Fortunately, numerous effective techniques can be employed to prevent this natural degradation. This article explores seven proven methods farmers can adopt to combat erosion and promote sustainable farming practices.

Read More

Outdoor Therapy: Transforming Your Garden into a Sanctuary

Outdoor Therapy: Transforming Your Garden into a Sanctuary

In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and tranquility can be a challenge. One way to cultivate a sense of calm and rejuvenation is through spending time in nature. Transforming your garden into a sanctuary can provide you with a therapeutic outdoor space where you can relax, unwind, and connect with the natural world.

Read More