The arrival of spring may show a vertical ‘split-like’ wound in the bark on the west or southwest side of a young or newly planted tree.  This wound, sometime called sun scald, is the result of the sun heating up…

Students at the Colorado State University studied varieties of lettuce seeds to determine which were most resistant to bolting.  Batavian lettuce varieties, a cross between leaf lettuce and head lettuce,  came out on top.  The most resistant Batavian cultivars were…

Seed packages indicate the number of weeks needed to have a seedling ready for planting out.  Add on a week for ‘hardening off’ your seedlings.  To calculate the date for starting your seeds indoors, start with the date when you…

Now is the time home gardeners are planning their vegetable gardens and ordering seeds, and some may be considering growing potatoes this year. The Ontario Ministry of Food and Agriculture (OMAFRA) has some cautions about growing potatoes in urban home…

Dust and oils can build up on the leaves of your plants, blocking light, making it difficult for them to “breathe” and increasing the risk of disease. For large, smooth-leaved plants, a wipe-down with a moist cloth works wonders. Plants…

Indoor plants should be grown in a growing medium that is formulated for potted plants.  Put the growing medium in a bucket and mix it with water.  The medium should be moist to the point that it will stay together…

Always move your houseplant up just one pot size at a time.  Your plant will not grow well if you suddenly move it from a 6 cm pot to a 12 cm pot.…

Check the soil before you water your indoor plants.  Stick your finger into the soil to a depth of about 2 cm.  If it feels dry, water it.  It is better to give your indoor plant a thorough soaking once…

Some annuals such as snapdragon, petunia, portulaca,  ageratum, and bacopa all need to be started from seed indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date.  Add on an extra week to allow time to harden off the plants…

Growing medium in terra cotta pots will dry out more quickly than in plastic pots.  If you want to use terra cotta pots, soak the pots in water for several hours before using.  If you are re-using a pot, be…