Discover our expert tips for a thriving garden—pest control, lawn care, composting, seasonal tasks, and sustainable gardening. Plus, get clever DIY hacks and tools to make your gardening easier and more efficient.
For busy gardeners, the division of summer-flowering perennials in early spring presents an excellent opportunity to multiply blooms while enhancing garden beauty. This process not only promotes new growth but also allows for the creation of free plants, making it a practical choice for those with limited time. Following essential guidelines and employing proper techniques, … Read more
Embracing the concept of garden resilience, this guide explores sustainable methods for managing pests while enhancing biodiversity. By employing natural defences and strategic planting, gardeners can create a balanced ecosystem that discourages harmful insects without relying on harsh chemicals. Incorporating beneficial insects and utilizing effective plants, such as garlic and basil, further supports a vibrant … Read more
Aphids are small yet destructive pests that can severely damage both indoor and outdoor plants. Identifying these soft-bodied insects is crucial, as they often cluster on tender shoots and leaves, leading to signs of stress such as yellowing foliage. Effective removal methods include hand-picking, commercial sprays, and encouraging natural predators, while prevention strategies focus on … Read more
Investing in tree care is a strategic move that not only enhances the beauty of your property but also significantly increases its value, potentially by up to 20%. Healthy, mature trees provide essential shade that can lead to lower energy costs, making them highly sought after by homebuyers. Moreover, understanding the fundamentals of tree health, … Read more
The Agapanthus, or African lily, is a captivating perennial known for its striking blue or white flower clusters that flourish in various garden settings. To enhance its beauty and promote new blooms, gardeners are encouraged to practice deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers to conserve energy and prevent disease. While deadheading offers numerous benefits, leaving … Read more
The complex world of ants reveals their remarkable ability to communicate through pheromones, which alert colonies to dangers and signal food availability. Killing ants can inadvertently escalate problems, as alarm pheromones attract more ants and disrupt the delicate balance of their social structure. Effective management of ant populations requires a nuanced understanding of their behavior, … Read more
The challenge of protecting gardens from deer is significant, especially for popular plants like hydrangeas, which are particularly susceptible to grazing. Gardeners can employ a variety of strategies, including physical barriers, companion planting, and deer-repellent sprays, to safeguard their floral displays. Additionally, incorporating deer-resistant plants and providing alternative food sources can help divert these herbivores, … Read more
April emerges as a dynamic month for gardeners, filled with opportunities for planting and nurturing a diverse array of flora. Key activities include sowing vegetables, transplanting young plants, and enhancing garden ponds to support biodiversity. Gardeners can also focus on perennials and summer bulbs, ensuring a vibrant display throughout the season. With diligent care and … Read more
Ants are essential contributors to ecosystem health, engaging in vital processes like decomposition and pest control. As natural recyclers, they enhance soil fertility and support biodiversity through their activities. To manage their populations humanely, various non-lethal methods can be employed, including sealing entry points, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and utilizing natural scent repellents. Recognizing the numerous … Read more
Homeowners must be aware of the implications of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) as they can face hefty fines for unauthorized tree work, as illustrated by the case of Martin Fielding in Stockport. These legal protections are critical for maintaining the ecological balance and aesthetic value provided by mature trees, which contribute significantly to the environment. … Read more
