Precious Water

The Lord honored His Word, and no harm came to any of our property.

However, we are dealing with the aftermath…

Helen DeBellJune 27, 2019

Cut Back Fall Mums in July

Often we see fall mums trying to bloom in the summer time. However, the summer heat will prevent the blossoms from opening completely. Allowing them to bloom in the summer only depletes them of energy.

Benjamin DeBellJune 25, 2014

Plants Need a Haircut Too

As the growing season progresses plants like Verbena (shown) and petunias begin to look leggy. Cut the stems of the plant back by approximately one third.

Helen DeBellJune 23, 2014

Shade Tree Decision, A Tale Of Two Maples

Over the years I have met many people looking for a fast growing tree for their yard. We all dream about sitting under the shade of a majestic tree and sipping a glass of cool ice tea.

Helen DeBellJune 11, 2014

Going Organic Basics

We hear about organic gardening in virtually every garden magazine or gardening program today. At times we have such an overload of information that we tend to gravitate away from the subject.

Benjamin DeBellMay 29, 2014

New Flower Bed 101

In early spring I started a new flower bed. The trees in the back yard had matured so much that my sun loving perennials were reaching for light. The location I selected had an established lawn.

Helen DeBellMay 21, 2014

Container Size Matters

When I transplanted my geranium (Pelargonium) seedlings this spring I decided to conduct an experiment.

Helen DeBellMay 14, 2014

Burlap for Lining Wire Planters

Use burlap or old gunny sacks as an inexpensive alternative to line wire planters instead of coco liners or messy sphagnum moss.

Helen DeBellMay 2, 2014

Tomato Planting Basics

The time to plant tomato plants is fast approaching. Some of us can begin planting anytime after the middle of April. Before you begin let’s cover some basics:

Helen DeBellApril 24, 2014

Garden Labels From Old Mini Blinds

Don’t buy plant labels for your garden this year. Make your own from the things that you probably already have sitting around your house. We used the 2” wide faux wood blinds for this project.

Helen DeBellApril 22, 2014

How Do You Spell Fitness?

Virtually every time I turn on the radio I hear at least one advertisement for gym memberships or weight loss programs. It is true that our grandparents had active life styles out of sheer necessity to survive.

Helen DeBellApril 10, 2014

To my fellow frugal gardener

Many times over the years I’ve been asked if old potting mix can be reused. I base my answer to this question on my personal experience.

Helen DeBellApril 10, 2014

How much are you really saving?

I purchased a bag of Caladium bulbs at a big box store. They were priced 5 bulbs for $2.98 (a little under 60 cents each.) Then, I went to a “real” garden center. You know; the people that sell plants for a living.

Helen DeBellApril 5, 2014

Is there a difference in Seed?

Have you ever noticed along the back edge of a seed packet there is a sell by or packed for date? How about a lot number? What do these mean?

Helen DeBellMarch 20, 2014

Starting Geraniums From Seed.

Geraniums (Pelargonium) are easily started from seed by following these simple steps: Geraniums will bloom 12-15 weeks from the day the seed is sown.

Benjamin DeBellJanuary 30, 2014

Curse of the Mulch Volcano

We hear a lot about applying mulch around plants, shrubs, and trees to aid in moisture retention and deter weed growth. We have all driven past beautiful landscapes that are manicured to perfection.

Helen DeBellJanuary 29, 2014

The Beauty of Windbreak Plantings

Windbreaks are plantings of multiple rows of trees or shrubs for environmental purposes. Their purpose is to protect or shelter areas from strong winds.

Helen DeBellJanuary 28, 2014