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.
The growing trend of wellness and slow living is driving many to engage in home vegetable gardening, fostering a connection with nature and enhancing mindfulness. However, protecting crops from various pests such as insects, rodents, and larger animals poses significant challenges for gardeners. Implementing effective protection strategies, including physical barriers, natural repellents, and encouraging predators, … Read more
In the world of gardening, prioritising quality over price in tool selection is essential for enhancing both efficiency and enjoyment. Emphasising simplicity, gardeners are encouraged to invest in a few high-quality, versatile tools while maintaining them through regular care. Understanding the specific functions of tools, such as the differences between shovels and spades, or the … Read more
Post-bloom care for daffodil bulbs is crucial for their health and future growth, emphasising the importance of allowing foliage to remain intact for 4-6 weeks after blooming. This period enables the bulbs to store vital nutrients, while timely fertilisation in spring and autumn further supports robust development. Additionally, bulb division every 4-5 years helps prevent … Read more
Achieving a healthy lawn is a key goal for homeowners, enhancing both curb appeal and property value. Essential maintenance practices such as mowing, fertilising, and aeration are crucial for promoting grass vitality. Aeration, in particular, alleviates soil compaction, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots, thus fostering stronger growth. Proper timing and follow-up … Read more
Pruning and dividing ornamental grasses during late winter to early spring is essential for promoting robust growth and enhancing garden aesthetics. Retaining grasses over winter provides winter interest and a protective habitat for wildlife. The proper techniques, including cutting back to ground level and dividing clumps every 3 to 5 years, ensure the health and … Read more
The use of chemical solutions for pest control can inadvertently harm plants by stripping away their protective waxy cuticles, leading to increased water loss and potential plant death. Gardening expert Chris Ware advocates for natural pest control methods, such as homemade garlic spray, which is effective against pests like aphids and maintains plant health without … Read more
Maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem requires an understanding of the balance between beneficial insects and garden pests. While pests like aphids, rabbits, and deer can inflict serious damage to crops, employing non-lethal deterrence methods such as barriers and natural predators can effectively protect plants. By embracing biodiversity and ethical wildlife management, gardeners can safeguard their … Read more
The phenomenon of lawn browning can result from a combination of environmental factors, biological issues, and user error. Seasonal changes greatly influence lawn health, with different grass types responding variably to temperature fluctuations. Effective management strategies include proper watering, disease prevention, and addressing soil compaction, while also recognising the signs of dormancy versus death in … Read more
Proper watering is essential for the health of tomato plants, as they require a careful balance of moisture to thrive. Overwatering can lead to problems such as root rot and nutrient deficiencies, which manifest as symptoms like yellowing leaves and cracked fruit. Maintaining soil moisture levels between 40-80% and employing techniques such as deep watering … Read more
April marks the beginning of a vibrant gardening season, offering the perfect opportunity to sow seeds, plant flowers, and establish soft fruits. Gardeners must remain mindful of late frosts and employ protective measures to ensure young plants flourish. This month is also ideal for nurturing tender plants indoors and engaging in container gardening, making it … Read more
