Plants and Gardening Tips

Gardening is a popular hobby in which many people participate, and for good reason.  It is relaxing, relatively inexpensive and instills pride and a sense of accomplishment.  There are as many different ways to care for your garden as there are styles, but the same tips and tricks apply to just about any garden.

• Move plants and flowers from the pots from the store by moistening the soil thoroughly before attempting to remove the plant.  If the soil is wet, it will be more likely to slide right out of the pot when turned upside down.  Also, water the hole in which the plant will be placed before putting it in.


• Place some spinach in a bag or plastic container, add a little water and set in the refrigerator for several days.  As the spinach begins to break down, the chlorophyll from the spinach will turn the water green and add beneficial nutrients to it.  Use this water to fertilize plants that are not getting much water.


• Water the roots using a deep watering method.  Till up the top layer of soil to allow for better water penetration, and add mulch on top of the soil around the plants.  The mulch will hold water and keep the soil wet longer.  Point the nozzle under the plant and water the soil directly below the plant for several minutes, soaking the ground.  You will not have to water again for several days.


• Consider adding decorations or earthenware to add color and a touch of personality to your garden.  Adding things other than plants to your garden is known as hardscaping.  Water gardens and fountains add a beautiful element to any garden, but keep in mind that they require more maintenance.


• Plant flowers that are known to attract bees and butterflies in your garden to keep pests at bay.  Bees and butterflies eat many common garden pests and do not usually harm plants.


• Mix some neem oil with a little cayenne pepper and apply to leaves and flowers.  Neem is a natural insecticide, and cayenne pepper deters bugs from being attracted to your plants.