Fertilizers are added to the soil to supply elements essential to the growth of plants. These elements include the major nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur, as well as the trace elements such as iron, zinc, and magnesium. Organic fertilizers are made from materials derived from living things. Animal manures, compost, bonemeal and … Continue reading Fertilizer: Organic vs. Inorganic
Category Archives: Snippets
Prevent Deer Damage to Hostas
The following suggestion was received from AOL Garden Message Boards contributor “Mary”: “Beat two eggs and mix well with a gallon of water. Spray or pour over the hostas. I think the eggs spoil and smell; and the deer will not touch. I have used it to good results. It works!”” ….Mary (061298) Editorial Note: … Continue reading Prevent Deer Damage to Hostas
De-icing Chemicals vs. Sand
Resist the urge to use de-icing chemicals on icy sidewalks and driveways. Damp sand, spread lightly, will form a gritty, non-slip surface that can be swept up in spring. De-icers often damage nearby grass and shrubbery…. Deborah Brown (Deborah Brown hails from St. Paul, Minnesota and is a former professor of horticulture at the University … Continue reading De-icing Chemicals vs. Sand
Houseplant Care During Vacation
By Phyllis Van Horn The bathtub routine has worked great for me. Was once gone for ten days, and all my plants did fine. I put several layers of bath towels in the bottom of the bathtub. Then I watered all the plants thoroughly and left some water in the bottom of the tub, with … Continue reading Houseplant Care During Vacation
Poinsettia Care After the Holidays
Many people like to keep their poinsettias “going” long after the holidays. I especially like the ones with white or pink bracts (not really flowers), more so than the red ones. But whatever color you have, the following are some tips from the University of Minnesota Extension Service Calendar, a holiday gift from my dear … Continue reading Poinsettia Care After the Holidays