Category Archives: Gardening

Gardening to-do list for August

About.com Gardening says, “For many gardeners the month of August begins the downhill slide into off season. Warm climate gardeners have a second chance, but some don’t have a second wind after summer’s heat. Your garden is hardier than you think and there are plenty of gardening tasks for August that will keep your flower and vegetable gardens going longer, as well as opportunities to get a head start on next year’s garden plans.” Here’s a Garden To-Do List for the sultry month of August.

Some Hints for June Home Maintenance

  • Check central air-conditioning units according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Replace filters in forced-air systems. Clean debris from outside condensers or heat pump units.
  • Reset thermostats and automatic sprinkler systems.
  • Wash windows, inside and out (try a solution of three tablespoons non-sudsy ammonia to a gallon of water). To prevent streaking, don’t work in direct sunlight.
  • Clean and inspect gutters. Ensure clips, straps and spikes are tight. Flush debris from downspouts with hose. Make sure downspouts and splash blocks direct water at least three feet away from the foundation.
  • Clean mineral deposits from faucet aerators and shower heads by soaking parts in white vinegar and scrubbing with an old toothbrush.
  • Dust ceiling fan blades.
  • Coat outdoor metal patio furniture with auto polish.
  • If appropriate, have swimming pools cleaned. Inspect and service pool liners and filters.

Greenhouse inspection

A greenhouse is a transparent structure used to grow plants within. The primary purpose of a greenhouse is to trap light and heat, which allow plants to survive and thrive in climates where they would otherwise die. Greenhouses encourage the germination of new seedlings, extend the growing season for mature plants, and allow tropical plant species to grow in temperate climate zones. Commercial agricultural operations and hobbyist gardeners alike take advantage of greenhouse technology. The use of greenhouses for growing vegetables dates back to the Romans. Italians used the first modern greenhouses to propagate tropical species of plants that were brought back by early explorers.

Greenhouses vary in strength and durability, and are usually constructed with glass or polycarbonate walls and roofs.  Here are some basic types:

  • Cold-frame greenhouses are those that do not supply supplementary heating or cooling systems.
  • Lean-to designs are “half-greenhouses” that stand up against and are attached to the side of an existing building. They require less space than a free-standing unit, and may be assembled and disassembled seasonally.
  • Free-standing greenhouses may come as a kit or may be assembled in a do-it-yourself manner. Most units have a base, a wooden or metal frame, and glass or polycarbonate panels. A hoop-shaped design is preferred for many beginning users.

How do greenhouses work?

The walls and roofs of greenhouses are transparent and allow light from the sun to penetrate into the structure. Plants and soil on the inside absorb the solar radiation and re-radiate it, trapping it inside. Some heat is lost but, overall, more is gained and, consequently, the indoor temperature is higher than the outdoor temperature in colder climates. Greenhouse structures heat up slowly and tend to maintain their warm temperatures for longer periods than the outside air. Some greenhouses are very basic and offer little in terms of environmental controls. Others utilize high-tech, automated gauges, timers and computers to maintain proper conditions.

Maintaining the proper temperature is important in encouraging seed germination and plant survival. Dark-colored barrels of water may sit on the greenhouse floor. These drums absorb daytime solar heat and release it slowly at night. Electrical space heaters may also be used if sufficient heating is not attained through this method. Different temperature zones may be created so as to encourage a range of plant varieties. Soil-warming trays are another electrical heating option, especially when heating the greenhouse air is not necessary. A shade cloth may be draped over the structure in times of excessive heat.

A venting system may circulate new air into the greenhouse and will also regulate temperature. This may simply be comprised of two fans:  one for bringing in new air, and the other for circulation. People may water plants by hand or they may install mechanical timers and dispensers, such as overhead spouts or booms.

Greenhouses also trap moisture. A hygrometer monitors humidity levels, and misters spray water as needed. Bees may enter the greenhouse to pollinate plant species that require it. In other instances, people may fertilize plants by hand. Plants may be transferred outdoors once colder weather warms sufficiently to suit them. Species that are not acclimatized to the particular locale may remain growing in the greenhouse indefinitely.

Advantages of Greenhouses

  • Greenhouses maintain a relatively stable interior climate, safe from harsh fluctuations in outdoor temperatures.
  • Careful regulation of all environmental factors may be accomplished within a greenhouse, as opposed to the unpredictable nature of the outdoors.
  • Greenhouses make it possible to grow vegetation in climates where it would otherwise be impossible, sometimes throughout the entire year.
  • Animals that might pose a hazard to vegetation are kept at bay.
  • Greenhouses shield plants from excess precipitation and wind.
  • Soil-warming trays minimize the cost of supplemental heating, since they deliver the necessary warmth to the plants without requiring that the entire greenhouse be heated.
  • Building a greenhouse can be relatively simple and inexpensive, especially in the case of homemade hoop designs.

Disadvantages of Greenhouses

  • Supplemental heating and lighting systems in colder climates cause increased use of energy and associated costs.
  • Structures must be maintained and materials replaced as needed.
  • Greenhouses that require glass panels are often prohibitively expensive for small-scale gardeners. Replacing them if they crack or break can also be expensive.
  • Polycarbonate panels are less durable than glass panels and may blow down in strong wind. They are usually not designed to withstand heavy weight, which may pose a major problem in areas that receive large amounts of snow.
  • Greenhouses may attract unwanted insects and rodents.
  • Irrigation must be provided, since plants do not receive any rainfall.
  • Soil may need to be rejuvenated more regularly than in outdoor plants.

Safety and Inspection

  • Greenhouses should be built in an area of land that receives the most possible sunlight. They shouldn’t be constructed near trees, for instance, so as to avoid shading and falling branches.
  • Ventilation systems should always be installed and function properly. Stagnant, humid air may lead to the growth of hazardous fungi. Excessively high temperatures can kill plants.
  • Leaks should be promptly sealed. Holes that are unattended to may attract insects, excess moisture, fungi, pathogens, and excessively cold air.
  • Operators should regularly inspect plants for insects. In cases where pests are present, action should be taken immediately to eradicate them.
  • Extra caution should be taken when handling greywater for irrigation.
  • Make sure that electric heaters are designed specifically for the greenhouse setting and do not pose a fire hazard.
  • Structures should be as large as possible so as to capture a maximum of the sun’s rays.
  • Soil should maintain the proper balance of nutrients, depending on the plants’ needs.
  • Plants should be grouped together according to their temperature needs in greenhouses that utilize different temperature zones.
  • Areas should be sterilized and free from visitors (including pets) who might cause inadvertent contamination.
  • Pools of water should be swiftly dried up so as to avoid excess evaporation and interior humidity.
  • Containers should be placed at the bottom of walls to collect dripping water for later use.
  • Mold should be immediately cleaned off of all surfaces.
  • Safe handling practices should always be followed when using harsh chemical pesticides.
  • Greenhouse walls should be sufficiently thick, especially in colder climates.
  • If not using concrete, crushed stone or grass, make sure that the floor of the greenhouse has a dry, anti-fungal, non-skid surface.
  • Greenhouses that are lean-to styles or which use the home’s structure as one of its walls should be regularly checked for moisture buildup, errant plant growth, and other potential biological concerns that can encroach on the living area or threaten the home’s structure.
  • Greenhouses attached to homes should also be inspected for pests that may migrate from plants and soil to the home’s interior.
  • Make sure that any electrical devices in the greenhouse use the proper type of outdoor electrical receptacles, and that these have covers, which will prevent an electrical hazard caused by water.
  • Unplug and safely stow any electrical devices in the greenhouse that are not in use.
  • If children are present in the home, use a childproof latch or lock on the greenhouse door to prevent them from entering the greenhouse unattended, where electrical, chemical and water dangers lurk.
  • Check with local building ordinances or your HOA to find out how large and what type of structures are permitted in your area.
In summary, greenhouses are an excellent technology for gardeners looking to regulate the climatic growing conditions of their plants and seedlings.  Safe practices should be followed to get the most out of them.

Bug zappers

A bug zapper is a popular exterior appliance installed by a homeowner or food handler to attempt localized control of flying insect populations. Its name comes from the characteristic “zap” sound produced when an insect is electrocuted. Around homes, they are primarily used to kill biting (female) mosquitoes, which create itchy bumps and can transmit the West Nile Virus or encephalitis, malaria and yellow fever. While Popular Mechanics produced a sketch of a bug zapper as early as 1911, it wasn’t until 1934 that parasitology professor Dr. W.B. Herms introduced the electronic insect killer that became the model for all future bug zappers. (read full article on InterNACHI)

June Home Maintenance

Some Hints for June Home Maintenance

  • Check central air-conditioning units according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Replace filters in forced-air systems. Clean debris from outside condensers or heat pump units.
  • Reset thermostats and automatic sprinkler systems.
  • Wash windows, inside and out (try a solution of three tablespoons non-sudsy ammonia to a gallon of water). To prevent streaking, don’t work in direct sunlight.
  • Clean and inspect gutters. Ensure clips, straps and spikes are tight. Flush debris from downspouts with hose. Make sure downspouts and splash blocks direct water at least three feet away from the foundation.
  • Clean mineral deposits from faucet aerators and shower heads by soaking parts in white vinegar and scrubbing with an old toothbrush.
  • Dust ceiling fan blades.
  • Coat outdoor metal patio furniture with auto polish.
  • If appropriate, have swimming pools cleaned. Inspect and service pool liners and filters.

Lawn care

A healthy, rhizome-based lawn is a good barrier to choke out weeds and foreign grasses. For an established lawn, check with a local nursery for when and what to use to fertilize (usually about 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet, watered immediately) to get the fertilizer close to the roots. Depending on climate, about an inch of water per week will suffice. It’s better to water deeply and over a longer period of time than shallowly and frequently. Mowing in the spring will help bring your lawn out of dormancy. Mowing causes the grass to shift more energy to growing blades than growing roots. Never cut more than one third of the blade off when you mow. Clippings will return the nutrients and water to the soil as long as they are not so thick as to prevent sunlight from reaching the lawn below.

August gardening to-do list

About.com Gardening says, “For many gardeners the month of August begins the downhill slide into off season. Warm climate gardeners have a second chance, but some don’t have a second wind after summer’s heat. Your garden is hardier than you think and there are plenty of gardening tasks for August that will keep your flower and vegetable gardens going longer, as well as opportunities to get a head start on next year’s garden plans.” Here’s a Garden To-Do List for the sultry month of August.

Creating an outdoor oasis for your home

What makes outdoor living so appealing? Being outdoors allows for a connection with nature as well as allowing homeowners to fully enjoy all of their property. It can provide an environment promoting relaxation and comfort, and even extend the useable area of a home.

To make the most of those outdoor opportunities, creating an exterior oasis can be done with some forethought and a few crucial elements. One that is often overlooked, but can really make a difference, is screening. Mesh screening stapled to the underside of the deck (if this area can be accessed) will prevent bugs fr-om crawling up through the deck’s floor. Mosquito netting or other screening around the upper portion of the deck can also provide privacy, while serving double-duty as insect prevention. Since mosquitoes and other insects can really spoil cocktail hour, here are a couple of other tricks that may keep them at bay. Strategically placing waterproof fans on the deck or outdoor patio will ‘inhibit mosquitoes for a couple of reasons. The wind stirred up by fans may make it difficult for mosquitoes to smell humans as well as making it difficult for mosquitoes to fly and maneuver. Planting flowers and other plants that are known insect repellents can also help. Some 0f these plants include basil, marigolds and lemon grass.

Comfortable seating is important, including getting rid of rickety, plastic lawn chairs. Today’s outdoor furniture is designed to be attractive, easy to lounge in a_nd weather-resistant. Adding a fire-pit is almost guaranteed to draw attention and company. Cool fall nights are nights to look forward to when there is a warm fire glowing.

There are a number of home fixes that can make the interior of the home appear to extend seamlessly to the outside. One may be the installation of sliding glass or French doors, which allows for easy entrance to the outdoor realm, as well as allow site lines that beckon outside.
Another trick is to install matching flooring from inside to the outdoors. For example, the use of the same weatherproof flooring-such as stone tile­ outside as well as indoors will unify the two spaces.

While the sun and natural light will take care of daytime lighting needs, to keep the party going into the evening requires the help of some exterior lighting. In fact, when prospective buyers are queried about outdoor features, exterior lighting is one of the most frequently mentioned requirements. Adequate outdoor lighting makes outdoor areas safer, more accessible and allows for more outdoor living. Uplighting (a bulb or light set in a cylinder or container at ground level with a beam of light directed upwards) can be used to create focal points, highlighting trees or other outdoor details. From a practical standpoint, solar or other landscape lighting will illuminate walkways, railings, stairs and doors for safe and unrestricted movement. Scones or pendants can light up patio or deck areas used for entertaining
or grilling. And strings of lights add a sense of warmth and celebration to any evening.
Finally, in an electronic age, no outdoor area can be considered finished without accommodating the needs of texters and tablet-users. To keep everyone connected, online, wireless outdoor Wi-Fi antennas can provide an extra boost of service, and solar USB charging stations will ensure all devices -as well as their owners-remain charged up. While not overtaking the market for indoor flat screens, all-weather outdoor televisions keep the games on alongside the grill.

Spring flowers: Please don’t eat the daisies (or cut the daffodils yet)

http://gty.im/157475224

Most places have had a wet, mild spring and the bulb plants are doing well. By all means enjoy the daffodils and other spring bulbs that have been blooming, and cut some flowers for spring arrangements. However, leave the foliage alone until it starts to yellow, usually in late spring or early summer (May or June in most locales). After the foliage has yellowed it can be cut to ground level. If the foliage is removed too early (for example, when the grass is mowed for the first few times), there will be fewer blooms next year. If cut back too early year after year the bulbs will gradually lose vigor and decline. This is because the foliage is making sugar through photosynthesis, and sending this sugar down to the bulb for next year’s show. This applies to daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs such as hyacinth, tulip and crocus.

Save water and money with soaker hoses

Photo credit: Steph L, Flikr Creative Commons

Photo credit: Steph L, Flikr Creative Commons

Savingwater.org says, “Soaker hoses help you save. Sprinklers waste water on overspray, runoff and evaporation. But by allowing water to seep directly into the soil, soaker hoses put water exactly where your plants need it at the root zone. So you save:

  • Time: no more moving sprinklers or hand watering in garden beds,
  • Money: using less water means smaller water bills,
  • Your Plants: they get just the right amount of water, and no spray means leaf diseases are kept in check, and
  • Our Environment: you are saving water and using a recycled product.”

This site compares soaker hoses versus drip irrigation and has a video about how to use soaker hoses properly.