Perennial Herbs

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

Perennial mints, including spearmint, applemint, and peppermint, are very vigorous and can become invasive. Rather than planting them directly in the garden, grow the plants in containers, then sink the containers into the garden. This will contain the roots and limit...

Herb Zones

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

Perennial herbs that are not hardy in your region can be overwintered indoors, then brought back outdoors in the spring. For example, in USDA Zones 7 and colder, bring rosemary and lavender plants indoors in late fall. Maintain them in a cool, bright spot over the...

Mulching Annuals

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

A good mulch prevents water loss, helps control weeds, and can enhance the flower bed appearance. Grass clippings can be used but they deteriorate quickly and have to be replenished often. When lawns don’t grow, clippings will be in short supply. Avoid bright...

Morning Showers

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

It’s best to water your yard and gardens in the morning. Night watering allows the yard to stay wet too long, inviting disease.

Heavily Harvested Herbs

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

Heavily harvested herb plants can look untidy. Consider interplanting herb beds with annual flowers to camouflage the trimmed plants.

Helping Herbs

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Fruits & Vegetables, Lawn & Garden, Tips

Herbs can help repel insects in the vegetable garden, and provide important habitat for beneficial insects.