  |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Providing good drainage is one of the most important gardening mantras next to "add compost". Most plants suffer in soggy, wet soils. Even plants we associate with moist soil will fail to thrive with waterlogged roots. Roots need oxygen too. Planting in raised beds can provide the drainage plants need. Controlling fungal diseases is important during this time of year as well. Choose plants adapted to your area and that have excellent disease resistance. Also prepare soil properly before planting, paying attention to drainage, watering and fertilizing. Extended rainy spells can be too much for some plants, as leaf spots appear and squash fruit rot. The fungus powdery mildew loves warm, humid conditions. Research has shown that both sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and potassium bicarbonate are quite effective as sprays against mildew and certain other diseases. Some new, labeled products based on these ingredients are now available. Other low-toxicity options based on natural and elemental ingredients are appearing on the market to help us control diseases with minimal damage to the environment. Giving plants some space will help too. Crowding plants reduces air circulation, which means that foliage stays wet longer. Proper spacing of plants can mean the difference between a major disease problem and a minor one. Frequent watering also keeps foliage wet more of the time and increases the likelihood of disease problems. Whenever possible, avoid wetting foliage at all. Installing drip irrigation will reduce foliage diseases and offer some savings on water bills as well. Pick up your seed catalogue, and start planning for the coming growing season. Even just planning your gardening activities will help dispell the winter blues. Add on top of that, a little retail therapy in the form of a shopping spree, and you'll be on your way to a bright, sunfilled spring. Perhaps this is the year to add that water feature you've been thinking about. A Koi pond might be nice...maybe some water lilies too. Try to think of projects that not only interest you, but also enhance the appearance of your yard or garden, and will also increase the value of your home as well. Porches, arbors, ponds, enclosed patios...all of these can add beauty, and value to your home, while providing an outdoor environment that you will enjoy for years to come, when you're stuck inside on a dreary winter's day. Didn't find what you were looking for? Try searching the web. |
Healthy Nutrition Growing Herbs Recipes |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||