Bee balm (Monarda), is also known as Oswego tea, horsemint, and bergamot. It’s a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and a versatile perennial plant. The plant attracts pollinators, and is a good addition to homemade potpourris and lotions. Bee balm flowers are so … [Read more...]
Keeping Squash Bugs Out of the Garden
Photo found on Flickr, courtesy of ILoveButter. Squash bugs are destructive feeders that attack members of the cucurbit (gourd or squash) family, especially pumpkins and squash. The insects suck on the underside of the foliage, causing leaves to wilt and eventually appear … [Read more...]
Controlling Blossom End Rot in the Garden
Photo found on Flickr.com, courtesy of mrpbps. Blossom end rot is a disease of fruiting crops--including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and cucurbits--that can result in serious damage to the crops. In fact, gardeners and farmers may lose half of their crop to blossom end … [Read more...]
Five Steps to Get Your Food Garden Started Now!
Photo found on Flickr, courtesy of Souther Foodways Alliance. Your neighbors are doing it. People with small patios are doing it. They are starting their own small food garden. You can, too. Now is the time to learn. You can get started quickly and cheaply. Here are the five … [Read more...]
Growing Berries in the Kitchen Garden
Being able to go out and pick your own berries is a summertime treat. Berries not only taste good, but also have important nutrients for a healthy diet such as vitamin C and anti-oxidants. Preparing most berries for eating is as simple as rinsing them under running … [Read more...]