http://greatbigplantsblog.com Great Big Plants Blog about gardening and plant care Wed, 19 Nov 2008 19:35:57 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en A great way to extend your garden into the fall and winter is by planting ornamental grasses. These ornamental grasses can be used for borders and to break up your landscaping and add a more exotic look to your outdoor view. Ornamental grasses can be grouped into two categories.  There are the warm season ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/11/19/garden-grasses/ What is a Cybister Amaryllis and is it a plant worth having? Reading organic gardener today I came across a short piece on Cybister Amaryllis. The article mentions that it is easy to grow in the winter and gives you a tropical, exotic feel with its sidery-pedals and bright colors. In many cases, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/11/19/cybister-amaryllis/ 3 Keys to Healthy Plants 3 things missing from every popular fertilizer: Carbon Microbes Trace minerals   3 things that every farmer knows … and you should too! Carbon Cycle. The most influential element that effects plant productivity is carbon in soil. The carbon cycle describes the exchange of carbon between living organisms and the environment. Plants directly ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/10/23/grow-healthy-plants/ How to grow vegetables - planning your garden is essectial for successfully growing a great harvest of vegetables. First, consider what you use in cooking.  There is no reason to grow venegtables if you cannot and will not cook with them. Second, what grows well in your climate?  You can talk to ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/10/23/how-to-grow-vegetables/ What are the elements that make up a garden? Natural Garden Elements Garden Soil Rocks Light Air Quality Wind Plant materials Man made garden elements paths Deck, patio, terrace Lighting Raised beds Sculptures Pools, fountains To read more about gardens, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garden http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/10/22/garden-elements/ As water gets scarcer and scarcer in dry climates and in not so dry climates, we gardeners have got to find ways of reducing the water consumption of the garden. In practice this means amongst other measures, that lawns have to be seriously reduced in size. In some instances there ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/10/21/ground-cover-plants-for-dry-climate-garden/ Late Fall and early Spring are the best times to test soil.  It gives you time to adjust the soil in your garden before planting season.  Here are some tips on testing your soil and preparing your Garden. 1. Do a garden pH test — A pH test and determines how ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/10/08/test-soil-today/ Image via WikipediaGood garden design - Why is it important. Why go to all the trouble of planting a garden if you are not going to get all the great benefits.  Good garden design can mean the difference between a utilitarian organic garden and a great enhancement to your property. The difference ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/09/29/garden-design/ People become organic gardeners for many reasons.  Here are the reasons I can think of for doing organic gardening.  Leave a comment and let us know why you chose organic gardening as a hobby. Health - Organic gardening ensures you eat more healthy, organic products that you are sure meet your ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/09/23/why-are-you-an-organic-gardener/ Have you look around your favorites blogs this month? September is Garden Bloggers Bloom Day and it's your time to shine and show what you got in your garden.  What flowers are blooming now? Do you have a favorite?  This month is a colorful and inspirational month for all gardeners.  it's ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/09/19/september-is-garden-bloggers-bloom-day/ How to Grow Hers Indoors In colder climates, you can still garden year round by growing herbs indoors. Many herbs will grow year round if you keep them warn and well lit. To begin with, you can purchase your herb seeds for growing your indoor herb garden from a local department store ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/09/15/growing-herbs-indoors/ Gardeners often wonder what Organic Gardening really means. Sure, the obvious answer is that organic gardening is gardening done without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides on the plants. Does that mean you do not treat the soil?  No, it just means you need an organically certified product like ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/28/what-is-organic-gardening/ Gardening with your kids is a great activity.   It will let your children be outdoors exploring and enjoying nature. Children also need vitamin D for healthy bone development, what a better way for them to get this essential nutrient than from sunlight while gardening? Gardening for my family is ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/24/gardening-with-kids/ I was wondering what types are gardens there are, and I went to wikipedia - gardening to find this: Residential gardening takes place near the home, in a space referred to as the garden. Although a garden typically is located on the land near a residence, it may also be ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/18/types-of-gardens/ Garden pests are a big problem with organic gardening.  Here are some tips to help you avoid common pests and get better organic results. Organic gardening is going to have bugs and other pests.  Some of the common pests that are probably in your garden right now are: Slugs Snails Beetles Army Worms Ants Aphids Grasshoppers Thrips Cabbage Worms and ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/18/organic-garden-pest-control/ If you want to start an organic garden, you need to start with organic gardening fertilizer.  This is the base for your organic garden success. Purchasing organic fertilizer can be costly and you are unlikely to order it online, unless you go with a condensed product. The best solution is an ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/14/organic-gardening-fertilizer/ I love salad.  However you want to fix it - lettuce is my favorite staple for lunch and dinner - especially in the summer months.  I was pleased to find an article about growing lettuce even during the month of August by using a high tunnel and plenty of shade. Barbara ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/12/growing-lettuce-in-the-hot-summer-sun/ Tis the season for flying insects and unwanted critters messing with the harmony retreat you've created in your yard.  How do you discourage unwanted visitors from your yard?   I recently came across a lively discussion on the benefits of hanging a bag of water from your trees to discourage bugs.  If ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/08/05/keeping-bugs-out-of-your-yard/ The county fairs are just around the corner - it isn't too late to add a secret ingredient to your prized plants! Just a little plug for our favorite energy drink:  Great Big Plants.  If you haven't tried it, this summer is the perfect time.  For prizing winning entrees, add 4 ounces of Great ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/27/grow-prizing-winning-vegetables-and-flowers/ Add some interest to your border garden with a handmade fence or trellis you can construct from twigs and branches you collect.  Mother Earth News has a wonderful article with complete instructions for how you can transform branches into a wattle fence like the one pictured above. If you are interested in ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/25/create-your-own-unique-garden-fence/ We all know about the honey bee and pollination - the age old story of the birds and the bees - right?  But there other insects that can be good for our plants?   Garden Guides has put together a reference guide that lists the beneficial insects and how you might use ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/23/garden-bugs-are-there-any-good-insects/ August is right around the corner and although it seems we've had adequate rain this summer, some plants are already showing signs of fading in the summer sun.  What can you do?    I'd invite you to read a post Hans wrote awhile back that does a great job of explaining what ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/21/thirsty-plants-reviving-plants-from-intense-heat/ We just talked about giving gifts to your favorite gardener, but what about the gifts you can give FROM your garden. As our fruits and vegetables ripen the obvious gifts are the fruits of our labor: the extra tomatoes, radishes, etc. But what about clippings from your favorite plants to help a ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/11/gifts-from-your-garden/ Looking for a unique gift to give your gardening loved one?  Clean Air gardening put together a listing of gardening gifts for the men and women in your life who love to till the land.  They have tools and pots and garden gnomes but the one I thought was cool was the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/07/christmas-in-july-gifts-for-your-favorite-gardener/ Sometimes I think we tend to assume people know all the basics of gardening, but what about the person just starting out?  You purchase a home and for the first time have a little bit of dirt and dream of planting flowers?  Now what? iVillage Garden Web has compiled a list ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/07/03/just-starting-gardening-what-to-avoid/ Remember the old days before television?  No?  Well, maybe you've heard stories of how the family would huddle around the radio and listen to the Shadow or the Burns/Allen radio shows.  It was a simpler time.  I just returned from a seminar on podcasting - the modern version of those good ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/30/gardening-podcasts/ Are you always on the look out for the latest trends in garden designs, tools and plants?  Todd Goulding recently compiled a list of the hottest and not-so-hot trends for 2008 in gardening.  Hot Trends:  I was not surprised to see Hummingbirds and hanging baskets with coconut liners on the list ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/29/garden-trends-whats-hot/ As the summer sun beats down and the rain continues to fall the weeds appear to flourish more than the vegetables and flowers. If you are just designing your garden then prepare to prevent with sheets of polypropylene and plenty of mulch (2-4"), but for the rest of us - the back breaking, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/27/dealing-with-weeds/ On Martha's Stewart show today she featured gardens and in particular the beauty and simplicity of creating a water garden.  Martha says: Not only will a water garden enhance your landscape, but you'll also soon notice new wildlife that will be attracted to it. You'll be delighted by the number of birds, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/23/create-a-water-garden-for-your-home/ The rising price of gas is effecting everything in our life from airline ticket prices to the price of food in the grocery store.  Perhaps it is time to go back to the way of our grandmothers and look to our garden to feed our families.  I have fond memories ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/20/recipes-from-your-garden/ The age old question - do you trim before the bloom or after; spring or fall?  Pettiti Garden centers located in Northeast Ohio have an incredible garden directory of articles all available for free to visitors.  The topic of trimming and pruning has always been one that I hesitate on ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/19/when-is-the-right-time-to-prune-bushes-or-trees/ We love our gardens, but why just have the beauty of flowers in the yard?  Bring your favorite flower colors and designs indoors.  In a special edition of Your Good House, there was an article about floral fabrics and designs.  They featured Wendy's garden pillows - the new Hatteras design ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/17/bringing-the-garden-indoor-floral-decorating/ I recently read about a woman who created a 5-Senses garden.  I was intrigued and so did a little research on the subject.  Of our five senses, sight is most associated with gardening; the beauty of the flowers, ferns and vegetables that we grow provide a sense of accomplishment and ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/06/09/experience-your-garden-with-all-5-senses/ You love the look of a healthy green lawn and full, beautiful flowers and one of the most effective tools to achieving that beauty is a great fertilizer.  Why do plants need fertilizer? How Stuff Works published a great article on why fertilizer is important for our plants.   In the article they ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/05/20/its-spring-therefore-it-must-be-time-to-fertilize-our-plants-trees-and-lawn/ Several years ago I decided to forgo the annual trip to my neighborhood store for the purpose of filling my trunk with bags of mulch and order from the neighborhood boy selling truckloads of mulch as a sport fundraiser.  We had recently moved to a new home and I didn't ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/05/18/mulch-what-kind-and-how-much/ One of the most extraordinary flowers and yet thought to be one of the most difficult to grow is the orchid.  The varieties are endless - each one more delicate and lovely than the next.  Tom Krischan, botanist and garden photographer shares five guidelines to growing beautiful orchids: 1.  Get the light right ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/05/16/bring-the-delicate-beauty-of-orchids-to-life-in-your-garden/ There IS life after the long winter and storms of early Spring.  If you've headed outside you've found the trees in bloom, the bulbs budding and birds singing their joyful song.  It is the perfect time to get out the camera and capture the beauty on film.  Birds and Blooms magazine is ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/05/14/celebrate-spring-with-a-bird-and-bloom-contest/ Gardening is no longer just a hobby; a way to add beauty to your yard or an additional food resource; gardening is now gaining popularity as a source for energy savings.  The latest garden location is your rooftop!  A recent study shows that Chicago has more green roofs than any other city ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/05/08/unusual-garden-locations-providing-energy-savings/     Would you love to have a garden but the thought of tilling the land and getting a plot ready for plants is holding you back?  Not to worry.  Lee Reich has a great plan for a beautiful garden, complete with arbor and white picket fence, designed for the notive garden.  ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/25/new-to-gardening-try-this-easy-garden-plan/ I recently set my computer screen saver to rotate through the photos saved on my computer.  I found myself mesmerized by the garden photos I’d forgotten I had taken over the years; my own garden, hotel gardens, parks, estate gardens.  The romance and the beauty of a beautifully crafted garden ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/21/a-tour-of-spectacular-gardens/    Forbes has compiled a listing of the most beautiful gardens in America.  So often when we think of spectacular gardens the images of European and United Kingdom gardens come to mind and they certainly have the most historic; but the US has a few beauties of their own.  Check out Kykuit (pictured ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/17/planning-summer-vacation-consider-a-trip-to-the-most-beautiful-gardens/ As the weather warms and our lawns begin to green-up our thoughts turn to creating a healthy, beautiful lawn.  Here's a frightening statistic:  American homeowners use up to 10 times more pesticides per acre of lawn than farmers use on an acre of crops. In a recent article by Beth Huxta, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/12/how-to-have-an-organic-lawn/    My mother used to tell of how her mom would make her go in the backyard and pick dandelions for supper.  As children we’d cringe with all the appropriate sounding “ewwwww” and then quietly eat whatever vegetable she’d put in front of us.  Anything was more appealing than the thought ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/09/eating-weeds/    Organic Gardening Magazine shares a few great tips for saving money and reusing materials from your garden: Save seeds:  I have done this with my lupine.  Each year I harvest the flowers, hang them to dry and then collect the seeds from the dried pods and replant in the spring.  From ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/05/money-saving-tips-from-your-garden/    It's time once again for the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC, March 29-April 13, 2008.  If you plan to be anywhere near the DC area during this time, take a detour to view the extraordinary, delicate and beautiful cherry blossoms that surround our nation's capital.  The history of how the cherry ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/04/02/cherry-blossom-festival-in-dc/ My folks live in Arizona and just recently took the trek down to Tombstone to visit the world's largest rose bush which was planted in 1885.  Newsletter writer, DK Davis shares thoughts as he views the massive plant: Perhaps the most unique sight in town is located in the Rose Tree Inn ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/31/worlds-largest-rose-bush/ In the March/April 2008 edition of Backyard Living magazine you'll find a gardening plan for creating a beautiful haven for you and the local hummingbirds to enjoy.  The plants used are: Yellow Asiatic lily Red Bee balm Orange butterfuly weed Trumpet vine, and Zinnas Planted decoratively around a birdbath and birdfeeder, it creates an irresistible spot for ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/27/attract-hummingbirds-to-your-yard/    Daffodils are my favorite flower. Growing up in the midwest, daffodils were always a symbol that winter was coming to an end and spring was just around the corner.   I'm a Leo and there was something about their grand beauty that reminded me of the lion - the great King ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/25/daffodils-bright-sunshine-for-your-home/ We talked about growing tomatoes all year long just recently, but I just found a great article in the April edition of Organic Gardening by Jack Staub that talks about specific tomato varieties for your growing season.   One of his first comments is to start  plants indoors while the weather is ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/20/the-right-tomato-for-your-region/ Happy St. Paddy's Day!  Have you thought about growing your own four-leaf clover? White clover or trifolum repens is considered to be the original Irish Shamrock. I actually found a cute clover pot with seeds at Home Depot that I'm growing for a little fun and color this winter, but what about using ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/17/growing-irish-clover/ I started with seeds this winter, planting lavender, chives, oregano, lemon basil and thyme.  It's been fun watching them grow even as the snow and ice continues to pummel us outside.  But before long my little seedlings will be ready for a container and I found this video from About ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/13/are-your-herbs-ready-for-a-container/ My daughter's favorite author is Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of Little Princess and the Secret Garden and we just recently began reading the Secret Garden again.  It's a story that has been made into a movie a variety of times over the years.  My favorite part is when spring hits ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/10/visit-the-real-secret-garden-artist/ "In like a lion and out like a lamb."  That's the saying, but it seems more like "In like a confused chameleon."  Weather all over has been a little odd this March.  Our bulbs don't know if they should peak their heads out of their cozy dirt or not.  Well, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/03/04/top-garden-sites-of-march/ Henry Tenenbaum, reporter and host of Henry's Garden in California has compiled a listing of his favorite garden sites.  Buzz Bertolero, The Dirt Gardener  -Tips, columns, and advice from the resident sidekick of "Henry's Garden." Sunset Magazine  -The magazine of western living. Wayward Gardens - Flora for Fauna. UC Botanical Gardens - A World ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/28/henrys-favorite-garden-sites/ Imagine - your favorite fruit ripe and ready to eat all year long.  So says Mother Earth News - offering the five smart strategies and four special varieties to ensure whatever the season - it's Tomato Time! Even winter?  Yep - here's what they recommend for winter: grow cherry tomatoes indoors: Near ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/25/tomatoes-all-year-long/ I recently talked about the great way to counteract the winter blues:  planting seeds indoors.  And I started my own herb garden a few weeks back.  Sure wish I'd found this article before hand.  Backyard Living gives great advice on giving your seeds the best start in life in their ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/21/seedling-smarts/ Just getting started with your garden as Spring approaches?  Organic Gardening offers a list of the most basic tools you should have in your shed: Shovel Spading fork Leaf rake Bow rake Leather garden gloves Pruning shears Trowel Sprayer (even if it's just a hand-held, window cleaner type) Wheelbarrow A little more advanced gardener?  They also tested a number of ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/18/tools-of-the-gardening-trade/ Garden Design magazine recently featured eleven of the most spectacular gardens, complete with the design layout.  The great thing about the winners is that they are from a variety of climates and topography.  They aren't all the traditional Midwest green with azaleas - creativity and a harmony with their natural surroundings ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/15/11-of-the-best-gardens/ Have you tried blending your own tea?  Herbs for Health offer a wonderful article on the benefits of tea for refreshment, relaxation and medicinal purposes and offer these few suggestions for blending your custom tea: Use only three or four herbs in each blend. Include herbs that use the same brewing method, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/12/create-your-own-tea-from-your-garden/ What better time is there to create an indoor garden then when the ground is frozen outdoors?  Rosemary McCreary, author of Tabletop Gardens:  40 Stylish Plantscapes for Counters and Shelves, Desktops and Windowsills, wrote an article not long ago in Backyard Living.  In the article she offers four tips to ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/09/tabletop-gardens-bring-the-beauty-of-outdoors-in/ I read recently that a great way to stave off the winter blues is to plant herb seeds.  There is something about seeing seedlings grow into plants that lifts the spirits.  How timely then, is the recent article in Herb Companion about creating an All Season Herb Garden. The author, Barbara ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/02/06/year-round-herb-garden/ Are you using the cold winter days and nights to plan out your new garden design?  Whether you have moved and need to start from scratch or plan to take a section and create a new garden paradise, there are now a variety of software programs available to help the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/31/gardening-software-reviewed/ Rosemary Verey, acclaimed gardening author, as a book that is perfect for winter reading called The Garden in Winter. "If our gardens are to be more than graves commemorating summer's beauty, we must start by using our eyes," Verey urges. Working with the express purpose of getting gardeners to look at "each ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/29/great-gardening-reading/ Travel with me to the UK to visit the beautiful gardens of Dunbeath, Scotland.  The Dunbeath castle and gardens are spectacular.  The southerly walled garden was first laid out in 1860 and has a number of "make-overs" in the last 140 years. The most recent took place in 1998 when the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/28/gardening-in-the-united-kingdom/ This is an amazing photo of snow collards.  Whoever said that winter gardens can't be beautiful has never viewed them through the lens of a camera.  I'm sure you've taken photos of your favorite plants, your new landscaped garden or a particularily beautiful bloom.  Now you can share them with ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/21/share-your-garden-pictures/ A cold frame is an outdoor garden protected from the elements.  They can be complex and expensive to set up.  However, Joe Gardner offers suggestions on how to use a few bales of hay, a couple left over windows and a big stick to create a servicable cold frame.  Check out his ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/20/create-a-cold-frame-for-your-winter-gardening/ Have the cooler temperatures driven you indoors.  Do you look longingly at your patio from the warmth of your kitchen?  Now you can learn how to transform your patio into a haven of rest even when the temperatures drop.  Sunset magazine offers ten ways to enjoy your patio in the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/16/making-a-retreat-out-of-your-winter-patio/ Looking for a biodegradable way to transplant your seedlings?  There is now a seedling pot made entirely from cow manure called the Cowpot.   Plants thrive in these award-winning biodegradable transplant pots. Cowpots™ are the patent-pending invention of Matt and Ben Freund, two Connecticut dairy farmers who were looking for an ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/13/transplant-your-seedlings-with-cowpots/ There is something so regal about the daffodil; its golden color, the trumpet shape and the fact that it is only in bloom such a short time of the year.  It is truly my favorite perennial.  And now, health officials say there is another reason to love the flower.  Evidently ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2008/01/11/daffoldils-modern-medicine/ Forget dreaming of a white Christmas - how about dreaming about a new garden this spring?  Better Homes and Gardens has the most amazing list of garden plans - select by color, type, size.  BHG has the listing of plants and placement - start with one of their cookie-cutter plans ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/30/im-dreaming-of-a-pink-garden/ The winter chill has set in and for those who love to plant and nuture seeds into life, this can be a long cold season.  But there are some vegetables that actually grow in the cold of winter:  Food2GRo offers this information on winter vegetables: Winter Veggies Check out the plant characteristics of winter ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/28/does-anything-grow-in-the-winter/ Now what?  The decorations will soon be packed away for another year - what do you do with the tree besides the obvious:  drag it to the curb. Here are a few bloggers with ideas you might be interested in: Matthew Chappell, a horticulturist with the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/26/christmas-is-over-what-to-do-with-the-tree/ Ever wonder about the traditions surrounding mistletoe?  Who started the whole kissing ritual? There are several stories in history that mention mistletoe; The ancient Celtic priests and sorceres burned mistletoe as a sacrifice to the gods.  The Romans decorated their homes with mistletoe boughs during their pagan festivals.  The French and Swedes ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/20/the-mysteries-of-mistletoe/ Want to decorate your tree like they do at the Biltmore?  The Biltmore opened its doors to visitors in the late 1800s and have been welcoming families at the holiday time ever since.  Located in Asheville, NC, the Biltmore uses miles of garland and hundreds of poinsettias to decorate.  Here ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/13/decorating-your-holiday-trees/ I talked briefly last month about tips for picking a holiday tree and have since found a few more interesting facts.  With the purchase of "fake" trees on the rise, one of the main reasons I hear for continuing to decorate with a live tree is the smell.  The fragrance ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/10/more-on-picking-the-right-christmas-tree/ Decorating can be expensive, but a recent edition of Sunset magazine offers clever instructions for using branches from your evergreen trees to create ornaments, window decorations and greenery for the dining room chairs.  They used Douglas fir springs and eucalyptus buds and pods with silvery dusty miller to create these ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/10/holiday-decorating-with-evergreen/ I found a great site for garden pots, bamboo, garden supplies and baskets for spotlighting your plants indoors and out.  They also have an incredible selection of holiday decorations, crystal garland and beaded ornaments.  Jamali Garden is an online store with a wide variety.  Bring the garden colors of Spring ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/12/07/decorating-this-holiday-season-jamali-garden-can-help/ As the weather cools, pets are indoors more often and looking for great play toys.  If you don't want your ferns, African Violets and holiday plants to become the toy of the day - consider this spray recipe from Marc Morrone of the Martha Stewart Show: Make Pepper and Garlic Spray Tools and ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/28/saving-your-plants-from-your-pets/ Thanksgiving has come and gone and many have begun the process of bringing out decorations and preparing for selecting their holiday tree.  I don't know about your family, but each year we went out to pick a tree and after the decorating was complete my mom would say the same thing: ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/27/picking-the-perfect-holiday-tree/ The temperatures have dropped and winter is finally here.  Just because the leaves are bare and some of us have our first dusting of snow is no reason to neglect your outdoor plants.  Great Big Plants is the perfect beverage for your garden plants to ensure they not only survive ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/24/plant-protection-this-winter/ Looking for ways to share your love of gardening with those most in need?  Kiva International is an organization that connects entrepreneurs from around the world in need of financial assistance with regular people like us who just want to reach out a helping hand.  Unlike donations - this is a ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/21/giving-back-this-thanksgiving-season/ Did you plant an amaryllis bulb this fall?  Mine has just begun to emerge from the bulb.  A sure sign that winter is close at hand.  Although they are one of the easiest ways to add color indoors - there are a few tips for even greater success: 1.  Use a ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/19/amazing-amaryllis/  Looking for a few unique gift ideas this holiday season?  Something beautiful like the Christmas Cactus and the Amaryllis but different?  Charlie Nardozzi offers a few suggestions for your gift giving list this season: Miniature Roses.  This is the gift that keeps giving.  Indoors, it will flower for weeks on end, but ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/09/holiday-gift-ideas-unusual-plant-gifts/ This is the last weekend for Drawing from Life exhibit at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.  If you are going to be near the area - it looks to be a wonderful exhibit: Drawing From Life features the work of 14 women artists who have painted plants at BBG, from the first ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/09/gardens-in-art-last-weekend/ The temps are falling, the clocks have rolled back and it's time to plant bulbs for springtime color.  The daffodil is my very favorite bulb flower and the more there are, the more spectacular the view.  This photo is of Daffodil Hill, in Northern California. This famous garden started with plantings from ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/11/06/its-november-time-to-start-thinking-about-spring/ Trying to "keep up with the Jones?"  Having the best looking lawn in the neighborhood is a goal many men and women have stressed over for years.  There's nothing worse that having a yard just a little less lush then your next door neighbors.  In our last house we lived ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/28/51/ Fall is the best time to plant a tree and what better way to leave a legacy then to plant a tree.  When I was a child I moved into a well established neighborhood where the trees towered over the bungalow homes. I soon made a friend and one afternoon as ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/23/planting-a-legacy/ Looking for a creative way to display your plants?  Friendship Gardens has the coolest looking plant stand that either sits on the surface or can be hung from a tree in your yard.    It looks like it will fall over any minute, but is constructed in such a way that ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/18/unique-looks-for-your-potted-plants/ I've participated in cookie swaps and recipe swaps, even pattern swaps with my sewing group but the newest swap is a plant swap.  Are you aware of them? You don't have to be a member of the local Garden Club to participate in a plant swap, you just need to enjoy ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/16/its-a-garden-party-plant-swap/   It’s hay fever season again and the ragweed is in full bloom.  The western ragweed is a perennial so how do you keep it under control?  Certainly they can be controlled by pulling or hoeing out before they set seeds. However, since western ragweed is a perennial make sure you ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/06/the-perennial-you-love-to-hate/ Fall is the perfect time for propating hardwoods such as , red-twigged dogwoods, boxwood, hollies, willow, arborvitaes or false cypress. Adam Wheeler, of the Broken Arrow Nursery in Hamden, CT, offers three simple steps for success propagation: CUT.  Clip a branch within the “cone of juvenility” and remove the new growth at ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/10/02/propagate-your-hardwoods/   You love your Rose of Sharon, it’s beautiful, it offers privacy and grows quickly with a beautiful flower.  But now you need to move your Rose of Sharon.  When is the best time?  According to Garden Gate Magazine, the best time is right after it’s dropped its leaves in the fall ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/30/when-is-the-best-time-to-move-a-rose-of-sharon/ As the weather begins to change thoughts turn to digging up cannas and caladiums and storing for the winter months.  Horticulture Magazine was recently asked that very question.   They replied: Caladiums are very intolerant of cold earth and will begin to show signs of decline as the soil cools. When they begin ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/27/preserving-and-storing-your-cannas-and-caladiums-for-winter/ Every fall we marvel at the colors and textures of the changing leaves.  If you haven’t been to New England, I would suggest taking a trip through Vermont or northern New Hampshire to see the fall colors at their best.   This month’s edition of Yankee Magazine offers two different back road ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/24/leaf-peeping/   There's nothing like that moist, odiferous smell of fresh manure on a garden bed.  The nutrients alone are well worth enduring the smell.  But most neighborhoods frown on having a cow in your backyard so here is an alternative solution to manure for your yard from Herb Quarterly: Take your grass ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/19/manure-alternative-for-your-garden/ Do you have an herb garden?  There's nothing more delightful than to walk into your yard and select fresh herbs for your evening meal. As the fall approaches I will begin the process of making holiday gifts from the garden and I wanted to share a few recipes from Jim Long that I ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/16/harvesting-herbs-for-heavenly-recipes/ I've never been much of a bird watcher; can't tell you one from another except by their color, but I love watching the birds at our birdfeeders.  Birds bring a beautiful garden to life. I enjoy the fact that a wide variety of birds can peacefully co-mingle on the edges of ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/13/affordable-live-entertainment-in-your-yard/   Labor Day has come and gone.  The white shoes are in the closet until next Spring and it’s time to think about getting our flower and tree beds ready for winter. Here is a complete checklist for Fall, but if you want to know what to begin doing now, here is ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/10/getting-ready-for-fall/   Hearty, colorful and perennial are mums.  They are available just about everywhere; garden shops, grocery stores and discount department stores.  Plant them one year and they double the next.  Mums are a great way to add color to your front door step, patio or to introduce color around your bushes.� I ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/07/the-latest-in-fall-fashion-mums/   Following up on container gardens, here are a few ideas for window boxes. Not everyone has a large garden area in which to plant a myriad of floral treats.  That’s why window boxes are such fun.  They allow you to experiment with different plant combinations in a small, easily assessable area.  ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/09/04/window-boxes-colorfulflexiblemanageable/ Ever wanted to grow plants in a container garden? In this post, I will help you do just that. To start, lets go over some basic containers for plants: Plastic - You may want to steer clear from using plastic pots. They tend to deteriorate in a lot ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/07/19/container-gardening/ An understanding of physiological and genetic factors limiting yield and quality under high temperature, is particularly important to continued successes in your garden. Exposure of most cultivars to 30/20°C day/night temperature prevents fruit set, as little as 3 hr exposure to 40°C can cause blossom-drop in most cultivars. The essential processes ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/07/12/heat-tolerance-for-your-plants-what-can-you-do/ I was talking with my father for a while on what to do with a highly shaded area in his backyard.  His idea was to turn it into a small Japanese style garden.  My thought was to add some color to offset all of the green. His major concern was that ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/07/05/shade-plants/ I helped my parents transplant large ornamental grass over the weekend. It was easier to do than we thought but there was one big mistake we made. We were wearing short sleeves. The particular grass they have is large and has paper thin blades. Needless to say, our ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/06/25/lesson-for-transplanting-large-ornamental-grass/ It is certainly getting warm now, and some areas may be experiencing droughts. What can we do to keep our lawns healthy during this time? First off, mow your grass higher. Leave about 3 inches on average for your grass. This will ensure healthy growth. The leaves ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/06/18/lawn-care-for-droughts/ You asked for it, and now you have it!  Great Big Plants is now available in 1 Gallon bottles.  THis is great news for people who want more of this formula in a single bottle.  Visit the online shop at shop.greatbigplants.com for even more of the energy drink your plants ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/06/06/great-big-plants-now-in-1-gallon-form/ Recently, my dad and I bought two pine trees for my mom on Mother's day. I know, it's a bit much, but she's worth it. They are small now, but will grow to great heights after many years of care. What are some important things to keep ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/05/23/plant-a-pine-tree/ As we all now, composting has its benefits, but what are compost tumblers and compost bins? A compost tumbler rotates, allowing you to turn the pile easily. The advantage of these as opposed to a compost pile is that it is quicker to make compost and turning is a breeze. Some ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/05/15/making-a-compost-bin/ Maturity cannot be described by a single property. Some laboratories assign a maturity index to compost based upon germination rate, root tissue growth, and other factors. The California Compost Quality Council (CCQC) developed a numerical Maturity Index that uses standard laboratory tests to rate compost maturity. To qualify as “mature” ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/05/08/indicators-of-compost-maturity/ Marc at Garden Desk is undergoing a fun experiment using Great Big Plants.  During the course of the summer he will be using the product on a garden side-by-side another without it.  It will be exciting to see his results as the season progresses.  Follow along with him on his ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/04/30/the-great-big-experiment/ Jugalbandi wrote an excellent post about soil and organic matter on their blog.  They talk about the importance of soil organisms, taking care of organic matter and more.  They also recently received a bottle of Great Big Plants and wrote some of their thoughts on it as well.  Take a ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/04/23/know-your-dirt/ There are several million to billions of organisms, which typically require a microscope to see, that live in soil and around the roots of plants. The way these organisms interact with each other and with plants is called the Soil Food Web. There is a best balance of all the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/04/20/what-does-a-healthy-soil-look-like/ I was browsing the Internet to see what other people thought about growing tomatoes and I came across a nice informative article.  Check out the Helpful Gardener for a great, lengthy article on how to grow tomatoes, and different types of tomatoes.  It is an older article, but a good ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/04/12/i-say-tomato-you-say-tomah-to/ Spring is here, and many are already planning to grow vegetables.  There are so many options to choose from, too.  Tomatoes, greenbeans, lettuce, onions, peppers, asparagus, you name it.  The key is to study your plant choice carefully and check for its nuances.  Always make sure to leave some space ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/04/05/how-does-your-vegetable-garden-grow/ I was recently introduced to an interesting forum page at flowersforums.com. Here you can post tips, ask questions, or just get to know other gardeners. You can even upload pictures to your profile so others can admire your flowers. Take a moment to visit the site and ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/03/19/flower-forum/ Great Big Plants energy drink for plants has been announced for purchase for consumers.  This is exciting news because now customers can experience what lawn care and other professionals have been using for years.  Check out the full story at 1888pressrelease. http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/03/15/great-big-plants-press-release-on-1888pressrelease/ Spring time is coming soon, and it is a perfect time to start thinking about gardening. Petunias are popular in many gardens. Growing them is easy. Here are some helpful tips: Plant seeds around the last six weeks of frost indoors. If you are simply transplanting, plant in the ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/03/01/how-to-grow-petunias/ Planting and gardening is a passion for many people, but have you ever thought about getting your kids involved? You would be teaching them valuable things to take with them into adulthood such as responsibilty and hard work. Above that, you will also be spending time with your ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/02/22/getting-our-kids-involved-with-gardening/ We all know what it is, but to what extent? Let's take a moment to learn more about compost. Stability and maturity are terms often used to characterize compost, yet opinions about what these terms mean vary widely. The term “stable” typically refers to a compost that is not undergoing ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/02/13/some-interesting-facts-about-compost/ The benefits of Organic Matter are widely misunderstood. Although dairymen regard cow manure as a waste, commercial farming operations value it as a soil amendment; while many growers value it only as a fertilizer. As a source of primary nutrients, though, Organic Matter offers much less, pound for pound, than ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/02/09/facts-about-organic-matter/ Hello garden lovers! Great Big Plants has just started a Squidoo lense. Check out our lense for more helpful links on gardening. There will be more to come as time passes. If you have something you would like to add to it, let us know, we ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/02/07/great-big-plants-is-now-on-squidoo/ The winter months are definitely upon us, and if you are like me and live in the Midwest, then you are also in the wake quite a cold front. What is one gardener to do in this weather? It may seem hopeless, but you still have options! Shrubbery and ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/02/05/prepare-for-spring/ Lawn care is somethign everyone does, but are you doing it right?  Do you water your lawn enough?  Do you weed your lawn regularly?  Is your front yard a nice, lush, scene of greenery or a land of bald spots and horror?  The Lawn Surgeon writes mainly on lawn care, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/31/are-you-taking-proper-care-of-your-lawn/ There are some blogs out there that have great personality.  You Grow Girl is one of them.  Aimed at female gardeners, this site has a lot of charm and some great tips, to boot.  Even if you aren't a girl, it is still nice to look through to expand your ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/30/girl-gardeners-unite/ Winter is definitely upon us in the midwest, and while we can't tend to flowers in the snow outside, we still have our flowers indoors. Here are a few simple tips for increasing the lifespan of those wonderful house flowers. Make sure you freshly cut the stems of your ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/26/make-those-indoor-plants-thrive/ I was browsing the web and came across a great resource for gardening.  Organic Gardening Review contains a large amount of product reviews, gardening tips, and more.  Take a look! http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/18/organic-gardening-review/ A lot of people are very passionate about their gardens, but what about the tools you're using to maintain that wonderful garden of yours? It's easy to overlook this, but a little care for your tools can give them a more long-lasting quality. Here are some things you ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/12/taking-care-of-your-gardening-tools/ Many thriving gardens have one thing in common: they took advantage of composting. First off, what is compost? Compost is a combination of decomposing organic matter, such as leaves, grass clippings, plant scraps, that have decomposed over time. This is usually mixed with animal manure (such as poultry), ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/08/why-compost/ Roses are a great way to bring some color to your garden. But how do you make sure these delicate flowers grow healthy and beautiful? Here are things to know about gardening with rose bushes. Plant just before spring time. Try to plant around March and April. Keep your ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2007/01/02/10-tips-for-growing-a-rose-garden/ Carbon is the most influential element that effects plant productivity. Each growing season more carbon is depleted from the soil. Since chemical fertilizers contain no carbons, soil quickly tires and fertility declines. It's important to restore carbon content through the soil for the environment, as well. It vitalizes plants, water, ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2006/12/28/carbon-a-vital-role-in-the-soil-equation/ Welcome to Great Big Plants blog.  Here we will give you advice on how to turn any plant into a thriving, lush healthy one.  For 14 years, Great Big Plants has delivered its organic liquid compost to users in 20 different states.  Let them show you how a successful formula ... http://greatbigplantsblog.com/index.php/2006/12/22/welcome/