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Tips Techniques

Fig Tree: Ornamental and Edible

Two fig tree fans enumerate the attributes of this notable tree. We learn the optimum growing conditions, and they share their favorite variety.

Propagating native plants

Columbine, Virginia bluebell, Major Wheeler honeysuckle, and dwarf crested iris are a few of the native plants discussed. Highlighted is how each plant contributes to wildlife sustainability, and how they are propagated. Several methods are demonstrated.

Winter-time seed sowing

Want to feed your gardening soul during the bleak winter months, and save money? Annette Shrader gets a lesson on starting seeds at home on a large scale. Some go in the soil as early as January.

Protecting Plants during Winter

Whether it's a tender perennial, an herbaceous perennial, or a sub-tropical like dahlias, April Moore explains how to protect plants over winter so they'll be good to go next growing season.

Winter Blooms for Indoor Spaces

Troy Marden shares his experience and some growing tips for plants that offer blooms during the winter months. Holiday cactus, poinsettias, and spring bulbs - including paperwhites, are highlighted.

Growing Cherry Tomatoes for Market

Jeff Poppen learns the methods necessary for growing a successful crop of cherry tomatoes in a market garden greenhouse. Bloomsbury Farm in Smyrna TN uses mulched leaves as compost to improve the soil structure. They use the Florida weave trellising system for some varieties, while with others the Lower and Lean Method is used.

Freshening garden containers mid-summer

It's the middle of summer, and those garden containers that were lovely and full in the spring are showing signs of fatigue and stress. Good news! You don't have to completely start over to get it through the remainder of the growing season. Annette Shrader guides us through several examples of how to go about rejuvenating the plants, and the overall look.

Seed Collection/Storage

Seed collecting costs nothing, and you'll find you have plenty to share. April Moore explains what plants are suitable, the best time to harvest, how to separate the seed from plant debris, and also how to store seeds to keep them viable.

The allure of daylilies

Since the early 1930s, hybridizers have made great improvements in daylilies. From the color range, to the patterns, to the form, there's a lot to love. Annette Shrader visits Bluebird Springs Farm where the daylilies are blooming, and taking center stage.

Mosquito bucket of doom

Here's a tip on how to eliminate mosquitoes from the yard without the use of harmful chemicals. It targets mosquitoes in a larval stage.

Success growing lupines

The showy spires of lupines are not an easy flower to grow in the South, but this gardener accepted the challenge. And boy, did she achieve. Troy Marden is eager to learn about her methods that have her garden bed graced with these beauties.

Toxic outdoor plants

There are many commonly used garden plants that can cause harm to pets or young children if ingested. For instance, lilies can cause kidney failure in cats. Marty DeHart shares valuable information on several potentially dangerous plants that may surprise you.