Helpful Hints for Successful Gardening

March 2, 2004

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    Gardening season is just over the horizon. It's time to get out the tools and pull on the gloves. Here are a few tips that are sure to keep your lawn and garden looking simply wonderful.

  • To reduce evaporation, water your lawn in the early morning or evening. Most lawns need about 1 inch of water each week, depending on the soil type. If the weather is hot, increase the amount to 1 inch of water every three days.
  • Your soil is ready for planting when you grab a handful and it crumbles. If it forms a ball, it's still too wet to start gardening.
  • Make your job easier by planting plants with the same water needs together.
  • Avoid using insecticides by planting marigolds, basil, mint, chives, onions, and chrysanthemums near or in your garden. Secretions from these and many other plants act as a natural insect repellent.
  • Use leaves, grass clippings, coffee grounds, and tea bags to form a compost pile, and use it to enrich your soil. For best results, chop elements into small pieces before adding them to the pile.
  • Try tying up your plants with old panty hose. They're nearly invisible and will stretch a little as the plant grows.
  • Plant pansies for an early spring pick-me-up. They'll withstand cold weather—even snow—and bloom steadily through the spring.
  • It’s easy to add a functional stepping stone walkway or patio to your garden. Just dig a few inches into your lawn with a shovel, pour down sand and carefully place paving stones.

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