DAHLIAS     

Want to add some real color to your garden? Let this article  by Nicki Goff whet your appetite.

 

Dahlias For the Home          Landscape

By Nicki Goff

Dahlias, with their summer blast of colors, range of bloom types 
and varied heights are a boon for your landscape. Blooming into 
fall, these diverse plants give you the choice of low border plants 
to stately background plants that can reach to 6 feet. With 
blossoms from 2 to 12 inches, and colors in everything but blues, 
these blooms are garden favorites.

Dahlias can be started from seed, but most are grown from tuberous roots. Since dahlias are hybrids, they do not come true when grown from seed. The tender tuberous roots must be dug up each fall in zones below USDA 7, and stored, divided and replanted each spring. But the work is well worth the glorious color your garden will have.

Color ranges for dahlias range from white to yellow, orange, pink, red, purple and maroon. Some flowers are striped, others tipped with a different color. Others will be one color as they open, and fade to a more pastel shade as the flowers mature. With the thousands of available cultivars, you will have no trouble finding ones that appeal to you.

Classification of dahlias is by flower shape and arrangement of the petals. Single flowering dahlias have one row of petals, and are generally smaller, with smaller blossoms. Double flowering types have multiple rows of petals, and generally are the taller, larger blossomed varieties.

Double flowered ones are also classified by the flower shape. Cactus dahlias have tubular shaped petals that curve backward for most of their length. Incurved cactus varieties have petals that curve towards the center of the flower. Formal decorative dahlias have broad regulary arranged petals that tend to curve back towards the stem, while informal decoratives have long irregularly arranged and shaped petals. There are ball dahlias, pompom dahlias, both aptly named.

In planting dahlia tubers, select a sunny location, away from winds. Growing best in deep fertile and well-drained soil, dahlias should be planted when frost danger has passed. Space the tubers according to the size of the full grown plant. Large plants may need 3 to 4 feet between plants, while smaller ones can be spaced 2 feet apart.

Dig a hole 10 inches deep, wide enough to accommodate the tuber. Replace loosened soil in the hole, and set the root atop it, with the eyes pointing up. If your dahlias are tall, this is the time to insert a stake for future support. Cover the tuber with 2 to 3 inches of soil, adding more soil to level up the ground as the stems grow. Dahlias are heavy feeders and need regular water.

As the weather warms, apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help conserve water. Each root will produce several shoots, and by thinning the shoots you will have higher quality flowers. When the plant is about a foot tall, pinch out the terminal shoot to encourage branching. Support the tall stems of tall types to prevent the heavy flowers from bending and breaking the plant. Remove the lateral buds to increase the flower size, or leave them on for more smaller blooms. Remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

After the first killing frost, cut back the foliage to about 4 inches. Allow the plant about a week or ten days to form new buds, and then lift each clump separately, digging a foot away from the plant's center to avoid cutting or spearing the tubers. Brush off the loose soil and gently wash the clump to get rid of all the soil. Allow the clumps to cure in a well-ventilated and shaded spot for a few days.

Before you store the tubers, divide the clump into individual tubers, each with at least one eye. Pack them in a ventilated box with damp vermiculite or peat moss. Keep the roots in a spot that does not freeze, or does not get warmer that about 50F. Check them over the winter, and if they are starting to shrivel, re-moisten the material they are stored in.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicki_Goff

For an excellent range of dahlia bulbs go to www.directgardening.com

DAISIES

Here's a helpful little article about growing daisies which I thought you would enjoy.

                                                                                                                                                            Daisies Are the Simplest Plants                          By Cheryl Hanlon

Daisies happen to be one of the best simple plants. They often grow on their own, but they are nice to have in the backyard for some color and also for simplicity. Often, you'll see these flowers thrown in a nice bouquet of flowers. They are simple and easy to grow, and that is why they are among the least expensive flower to purchase. You'll want to consider that the daisy looks good in a bed of flowers, but it is also a flower that can stand alone. They are wonderful in the gardens, but can make a huge difference to the décor of any room.

For those who are looking to become gardeners, but have not had much experience or success in the past, you'll want to pick the daisy. The daisy is one of the easiest flowers to plant and grow. Daisies are often planted by seed, but you can get many of the bigger daisies at the local nursery. Daisies will continue to multiple and grow each year. You may want to take your garden of daisies and separate some of the seedlings, because this will allow you to keep control of the growth. You'll also find that these plants will multiple at such a rate that it can begin to crowd the other plants and offspring. You'll need to separate the daisies, eventually.

As for the soil, you'll find that a good, well drained soil is needed and lots of sunshine. They look wonderful in the middle of the year, but they also make great borders. Often you'll see a sidewalk lined with daisies. Keep in mind that the seeds are easy and it's hard to kill them. They easily adapt and are great flowers to start with. It is very important that you understand that these flowers are not finicky and they do not need a lot of attention. This is why a lot of first-time gardeners will use these flowers as their main plant.

The best part of daisies is the colors that they come in. Often you'll get a few seed packets that are basically colored daisies. Keep in mind that there is nothing like keeping the landscaping of a beautiful home simple. Preferring the basic, white daisy, you would be able to bring both life and simplicity to your yard and into your home.

Daisies are one of the most sought out flowers, because they are classic and timeless. Although, they compare nothing to a rose, they make a great gift for welcomes and open houses. They also make a great flower for birthday's and other celebrations.

Cheryl Hanlon freelance garden and greenhouse writer. 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cheryl_Hanlon

For a great range of daisies and other delightful flowering plants go to www.directgardening.com

SOLAR POWERED BIRD BATHS

Here's an interesting little article for anyone considering installing a bird bath in their garden.

 

Solar Powered Bird Baths

By Anna Price

A bird bath is a lovely addition to a bird friendly garden and will
attract birds who use it for both drinking and bathing. Providing 
water is particularly important in the winter when natural sources 
may be frozen and on hot summer days birds will appreciate being 
able to cool down.

Birds are attracted to moving water so having a bird bath with a fountain will encourage them to return to your garden again and again. Use solar panels to circulate the water and not only are you being eco-friendly but there are no operating costs associated with it.

Another of the benefits of using solar panels rather than electricity to power the fountain is that you can be more flexible where you position your bath.

It is not recommended to use chemicals to thaw water as they can be harmful to birds and as solar powered bird baths often contain a heating element they will prevent the water from freezing in the winter.

The solar panels are either integrated in the bath or there is a separate panel that you place a short distance away. The solar panels soak up energy during the day and use it to pump the fountain or store it in a battery pack for later use.

If you choose a self-contained bath then you will need to place it in direct sunlight and you will have to check on the water regularly to make sure it has not evaporated. However if you choose a solar bath with separate panels then you can be more flexible and put the bird bath in shade as long as the panels are in direct sunlight.

Running water in a bird bath also helps with hygiene. In most types of bird bath the water can become stagnant and they can become breeding grounds for all sorts of bacteria and some insects. A dirty bath can spread disease and birds how use it may become ill.

Algae can still grow in a solar bath so you will need to clean it as you would any bird bath. Use a mild solution of bleach or disinfectant and rinse it thoroughly in clean water before letting birds use it again. You will also need to clean the solar panels and check them for damage and be aware that they may need replacing eventually.

Although a solar bird bath may be more expensive initially than a regular bath the moving water will encourage more birds to visit as well as making an attractive feature in your garden so it is an investment that is well worth making.

The author is a keen gardener and amateur bird watcher.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Price

Have a look at a selection of solar bird baths at  www.serenityhealth.com

      ALOES

ALOES - SURPRISING SUCCULENTS

By Maxina D Williams

Aloes are surprisingly easy to grow. They are water-wise and an essential for every garden. They are incredibly hardy but their hardiness is just part of their charm. This species is treasured not only for its dramatic flowers but also for its sculptured form. They can create a spectacular and dramatic effect in any situation.
Aloes are a genus of the succulent family and are native to Africa, Madagascar, the Arabian peninsular and various African islands but it is in South Africa where they are most prolific. They can be grown in a variety of regions but they require good sunshine and excellent drainage.
They can be quite susceptible to root rot, which is most aggressive in humid, cloudy or wet weather. They are therefore best suited to sandy, gravelly soil which provides the good drainage needed for a happy plant. If your soil is predominately clay based, you should sweeten it with a product such as gypsum and work in a quantity of sand and gravel.
Aloes also make good potted specimens and can enhance your patio or outdoor living area but there are a few things to watch out for with a potted aloe. It is best to use a terracotta (clay) pot rather than a plastic one as terracotta doesn't retain water the way plastic does and therefore allows for better drainage. Another no-no is to stand the pot in a saucer. It is also advisable to raise it off the ground with pot feet to make sure that the drainage hole doesn't become blocked. Avoid leaving your potted aloe out in the open during extended wet weather; it is best to keep it under the eaves or some other shelter.Unlike a lot of other potted plants, aloes don't mind being slightly pot-bound, which can actually prevent overwatering. They should be re-potted after their annual flowering.
Aloe Vera is the best known of the species for its healing qualities but there are over 300 different species of aloes and many hybrids, ranging from toothed to almost smooth and from bright green to blue and gray. There are also variegated varieties which are highly collectible. Many aloes have long stemmed spikes of bell-shaped flowers in a variety of colors and, as the flower spike ages, they can change color, thus adding further interest. They can bloom annually from an early age and then just get better and better with each flowering.
Another benefit in growing aloes is their attraction for the birds and bees. Not only does their sweet nectar lure our feathered friends and pollinating bees into your garden but their leaves also collect rain, thus providing a supply of water for your visitors.
The earliest known evidence of the healing qualities of Aloe Vera dates back to approximately 3500 BC in ancient Egypt.
The aloe is a most interesting and exciting plant to have in your garden and one that will give you a lot of pleasure.

Maxina Williams loves anything to do with gardening and outdoor living.
http://www.gardenswings-n-things.blogspot.com
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/GardenThings
Twitter:            https://twitter.com/#!/gardenswings

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maxina_D_Williams

CREATING A GARDEN

                                                                     

THE JOY OF CREATING A GARDEN

                                                By Maxina Williams

There are many things in life which bring you joy. Establishing a garden is one of them.

The absolute pleasure in seeing a bare piece of ground transformed into a thing of beauty is unsurpassed.

There are countless numbers of reference books available on how to create a garden and you will get lots of good ideas from them. You may even find a design which is just right for you. There are also plenty of garden designers out there with unlimited ideas and just waiting to be let loose at your place but there two things against this: 1. the cost (These guys don’t come cheap) and 2. the absence of the personal satisfaction you will get from doing it yourself.

A garden designer, also known as a landscaper, will work out a plan to start with and you can also do the same but it’s quite a lot of fun to plan it as you go,”on the run” so to speak, where one idea can lead to another and great ideas can grow from being adventurous.

However, you do need to have a basic idea of what you are trying to achieve before you start in with your pick and shovel, or even something bigger. For instance, are you wanting to create a privacy screen between you and the street or potentially nosey neighbours; do you want a garden full of flowering trees and shrubs that will attract birds and other wildlife; do you want to have your own cut flowers to enhance your home; are you looking for low maintenance, or would you like something that combines all of these?

Transforming an existing garden in a house you’ve just bought can also be an exciting challenge. When we moved into our current house three years ago there were lots of existing flowers and shrubs we simply didn’t like and we’ve systematically replaced them, with spectacular results. We now have lots of birds entertaining us every day and we have a regular supply of cut flowers. We also installed a bird bath for our feathered guests and it’s fun to watch the different bathing antics of the various species.

Deciding on the type of garden edging to use can be a challenge. You need to stick to a theme. I personally like using bush rocks and logs for a more natural look but you may prefer timber, concrete or even bricks. We recently did an attractive edging at an historic cottage in our town by using old house bricks set in against each other on a 45 degree angle. It looks just right for a cottage garden and was simple to do.

So, no matter what choices you make, be sure to have fun doing it!

Maxina Williams loves anything to do with gardening and outdoor living.

Article source: gardenswings-n-things.blogspot.com

WELLINGTON BOOTS

The History of Wellington Boots

By Sami Brown

Wellington boots originated from Hessian boots that were commonly used

 by the military in the 18th century. The footwear developed in the 19th 

century when they were regularly worn by the 1st Duke of Wellington who

 gained recognition for wearing them which made them popular among

 British upper classes. Since this time, Wellington boots have become

 increasingly popular among all social classes and used for a whole host of

 different occasions.

Wellington boots, made for practical purposes, are also commonly known as rain boots or 'wellies'. The footwear was originally made from leather until rubber came about which helped to protect the wearer's feet from bad weather such as rain, snow and mud, and prevent them from getting wet, dirty and cold. They often sit just below the knee but are now available in shorter lengths too; they usually have a very small heel and a good quality sole to make them practical for walking in bad weather.

This practical footwear has since been a popular choice of shoe, especially among farmers and regular walkers. They are even more popular during the winter when there is several feet of snow and boggy mud puddles from the rain. These boots were commonly available in bland shades such as black, khaki green and navy because the practical features of the boots was more important that the appearance.

Wellington boots are now a fashionable choice of footwear among young adults during festivals due to the curse of rainy weather. They are steadily becoming stylish within the younger age groups thus resulting in more appealing styles and complex designs to appeal to a wider audience. Wellington boots are now available in a wide choice of cool shades and loud prints for both men and women. Aiming for a fashion statement, 'wellies' can now be purchased with wedged heels, laces and buckles for decoration. It is inevitable that the public wish to own fashionable footwear that is versatile whilst also catering for practicality, this results in the sale of accessories made especially for this style of shoe such as welly socks and boot liners to keep your feet warmer and to change the look of your original boots.

Wellington boots can now be purchased around the world in a range of different colours and designs to suit people of all ages, both men and women. This footwear has come a long way since the creation which has helped them to transform from a practical boot into an all-round fashionable yet purpose-built pair of footwear.

Samantha Brown is an experienced author who specialises in fashion and enjoys sharing her thoughts and interests with you. The websites recommended by Samantha have been chosen by herself from her own personal experiences. 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sami_Brown

LEMON TREES

 

Growing Lemon Trees at Home

By Graeme J Olsen

If you like baking, making lemonade or simply like a slice of lemon 
in your drink at the end of a hard day, then consider growing your 
own lemon tree at home. Lemon trees are one of the many trees 
you can grow in containers at home. They are hardy and easy to 
keep, and are great at producing a vast amount of fruit. Lemon 
trees were originally native to Asia, and were grown for their 
medicinal purposes. They also have a fantastic antiseptic property, 
and were used as an antidote for many poisons.

There are several different varieties of tree available to buy, the hardiest of them being the Meyer lemon which has many varieties itself. The dwarf Meyer is a fantastic first time growing tree, it has plentiful fruits and is very low maintenance. Dwarf Meyers are very unique as their fruits are more orange shaped and sweeter than other lemons. This type of lemon tree is amazingly disease resistant and adapt to their environment very well.

Another variety to consider is the ponderosa variety, not only does this produce fantastic fruits but an amazing aroma as well. The aroma of its blooms is extremely fragrant, fresh and clean, much better than any shop bought air freshener. Lemons have many uses and are not only for baking and to drink, you can use them around the house too. Lemons are great as a cleaning product, they can be used to clean grease and bleach stains. They are also fantastic for treating wood and brightening copper, and many aromatherapy oils have lemon in them, as they enhance your mood.

When you decide to purchase your tree it will often be shipped from southern state growers. Your tree will come in a container, and be ready to start producing fruit immediately. With proper care you can expect a fruit yield, at least twice a year of up to two pounds of fruit. The first year you may not have such a yield as the tree adapts to its new environment, but after that you will have so much fruit you will be kept busy baking. Lemon trees do vary in size some remain at around 2ft where as others will grow to 8ft or more. You can feed your lemon trees plant food, it will help to encourage fruit growth, and this is advised but not essential.

These trees are ideal for first time gardeners, and are robust and take very little care. Lemon trees basically only need water and sunlight, they are best placed on your terrace or balcony and do not need to be brought inside in the winter months. The best gauge is to leave the soil until it is nearly dry and then water your tree, this is usually weekly. Mist your tree occasionally to help with humidity. Lemon trees love sunlight, and if possible allow the tree to have up to six hours of sunlight a day, in the winter months, water less frequently. Container lemon trees are an ideal present for keen gardeners; they can grow and nurture a plant, with little knowledge but great rewards.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graeme_J_OlsenN TREES