--Home Gardening Guides--My favorite bird photograph--Home Gardening Blog --

I think (hope?) you'll agree this is a pretty amazing photograph. It was a case of being in the right place at the right time.

I was walking through a park one summer's day. As I passed a large flower bed filled with daylilies, I heard a couple of rustling sounds.

I froze in my tracks, craned my neck and saw several tiny California quail chicks. They were poking about in the soil and wandering here and there.

Fortunately, I had my new camera (a Canon PowerShot SX50) along with me so I was excited at the chance to get some photos of these tiny fluff balls. The camera has a "vari-angle" LCD screen so I could hold the camera up high while seeing the scene I was trying to frame.

I'd shot a few pictures when something amazing happened:

The papa quail suddenly appeared in the middle of all of the chick activity and stood holding his wings out. I thought, "what in the world is he doing?" because I'd never seen them do that before.

The next thing I knew, all of the babies came a-running and stood under his wings! Soon I saw a couple of them dozing on their feet. I finally realized what was happening: it was nap time and the dad was providing them with protection from the sun and predators. How cool is that?!

So there I stood, taking image after image while saying to myself "Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! I can't believe I'm getting pictures of this!"

And that's my story. As I said above, I was in the right place at the right time. And I had my camera along with me -- thank heavens for that. It also pays to be really observant of what's going on around you. Before that happened, I had no idea there were quail in that bed or what was about to take place.

I'm very lucky.

December 2015 - Hello Friend gunderson-assessment,In the article you read this time with the title December 2015,we have prepared well for this article you read and download the information therein . hopefully fill posts we write this you can understand. Well, happy reading.

Judul : --Home Gardening Guides--My favorite bird photograph--Home Gardening Blog --
link : --Home Gardening Guides--My favorite bird photograph--Home Gardening Blog --

December 2015

I think (hope?) you'll agree this is a pretty amazing photograph. It was a case of being in the right place at the right time.

I was walking through a park one summer's day. As I passed a large flower bed filled with daylilies, I heard a couple of rustling sounds.

I froze in my tracks, craned my neck and saw several tiny California quail chicks. They were poking about in the soil and wandering here and there.

Fortunately, I had my new camera (a Canon PowerShot SX50) along with me so I was excited at the chance to get some photos of these tiny fluff balls. The camera has a "vari-angle" LCD screen so I could hold the camera up high while seeing the scene I was trying to frame.

I'd shot a few pictures when something amazing happened:

The papa quail suddenly appeared in the middle of all of the chick activity and stood holding his wings out. I thought, "what in the world is he doing?" because I'd never seen them do that before.

The next thing I knew, all of the babies came a-running and stood under his wings! Soon I saw a couple of them dozing on their feet. I finally realized what was happening: it was nap time and the dad was providing them with protection from the sun and predators. How cool is that?!

So there I stood, taking image after image while saying to myself "Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! I can't believe I'm getting pictures of this!"

And that's my story. As I said above, I was in the right place at the right time. And I had my camera along with me -- thank heavens for that. It also pays to be really observant of what's going on around you. Before that happened, I had no idea there were quail in that bed or what was about to take place.

I'm very lucky.

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--Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering geraniums: 1-month check-up--Home Gardening Blog --

I always find it a little scary opening up the box that I'm overwintering my geraniums in after the first month has passed.

That's because the beautifully-vibrant plants I first put in there are now the picture of death and destruction! I'm talking dead leaves and what initially appeared like lifeless plants.

But, on closer examination, I discovered they're doing exactly what they should be doing.

When you're overwintering geraniums, the three things you're checking for each month are mold, shriveled branches and tiny new leaves.

Did I see any mold? Nope.

Shriveled branches? Nope again.

Tiny, new leaves? Yes indeed! If you look closely in this photo, you'll see small, pale leaves emerging from the stems. That's a very good sign.

If I'd seen any mold, I would have clipped that off a plant, or -- if it was spreading throughout the plant -- I would have thrown it out. So always watch for that when you do your monthly updates.

I didn't see any shriveled branches, but last year about 2/3 of the way through the winter, I noticed one plant's branches had started shriveling up. I decided to take it out of the box, lightly mist it with some water and then return it to the box. I was sure I was going to lose the plant so figured it was worth a try. It turns out, the plant perked right up and grew beautifully through the whole garden season. Another good reason to check your plants once a month through the winter!

OK, see you back here in a month...

December 2015 - Hello Friend gunderson-assessment,In the article you read this time with the title December 2015,we have prepared well for this article you read and download the information therein . hopefully fill posts we write this you can understand. Well, happy reading.

Judul : --Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering geraniums: 1-month check-up--Home Gardening Blog --
link : --Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering geraniums: 1-month check-up--Home Gardening Blog --

December 2015

I always find it a little scary opening up the box that I'm overwintering my geraniums in after the first month has passed.

That's because the beautifully-vibrant plants I first put in there are now the picture of death and destruction! I'm talking dead leaves and what initially appeared like lifeless plants.

But, on closer examination, I discovered they're doing exactly what they should be doing.

When you're overwintering geraniums, the three things you're checking for each month are mold, shriveled branches and tiny new leaves.

Did I see any mold? Nope.

Shriveled branches? Nope again.

Tiny, new leaves? Yes indeed! If you look closely in this photo, you'll see small, pale leaves emerging from the stems. That's a very good sign.

If I'd seen any mold, I would have clipped that off a plant, or -- if it was spreading throughout the plant -- I would have thrown it out. So always watch for that when you do your monthly updates.

I didn't see any shriveled branches, but last year about 2/3 of the way through the winter, I noticed one plant's branches had started shriveling up. I decided to take it out of the box, lightly mist it with some water and then return it to the box. I was sure I was going to lose the plant so figured it was worth a try. It turns out, the plant perked right up and grew beautifully through the whole garden season. Another good reason to check your plants once a month through the winter!

OK, see you back here in a month...

Read More

--Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering canna lily bulbs: Update #1--Home Gardening Blog --

This fall, for the very first time, I decided to learn how to overwinter canna lily bulbs. After all, I grow them most years in my deck pots but at the end of the season, out they go to the compost pile. (yes, I'm ashamed to admit this)

While I went through the steps, I shot a video on how to overwinter them. Here's a link to the video on my YouTube channel, in case you missed it.

I'm storing the bulbs in paper grocery sacks filled with shredded paper. It's important to check on the bulbs once a month over the winter to make sure they're not shriveling up or developing mold.

This morning, I did the first bulb check and am pleased to report they're looking good. I didn't see any mold and, as you can see from the photos, the bulbs are plump (that's a botanical term, right?) and there are even some new tips growing. Hooray!


If you are also overwintering cannas for the first time, be sure to mark your calendar to check them each month. That way, if there's a problem going on with one of the bulbs, you're right on top of it before it spreads to the other bulbs.

I'll do another update in January. Happy gardening!

December 2015 - Hello Friend gunderson-assessment,In the article you read this time with the title December 2015,we have prepared well for this article you read and download the information therein . hopefully fill posts we write this you can understand. Well, happy reading.

Judul : --Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering canna lily bulbs: Update #1--Home Gardening Blog --
link : --Home Gardening Guides--Overwintering canna lily bulbs: Update #1--Home Gardening Blog --

December 2015

This fall, for the very first time, I decided to learn how to overwinter canna lily bulbs. After all, I grow them most years in my deck pots but at the end of the season, out they go to the compost pile. (yes, I'm ashamed to admit this)

While I went through the steps, I shot a video on how to overwinter them. Here's a link to the video on my YouTube channel, in case you missed it.

I'm storing the bulbs in paper grocery sacks filled with shredded paper. It's important to check on the bulbs once a month over the winter to make sure they're not shriveling up or developing mold.

This morning, I did the first bulb check and am pleased to report they're looking good. I didn't see any mold and, as you can see from the photos, the bulbs are plump (that's a botanical term, right?) and there are even some new tips growing. Hooray!


If you are also overwintering cannas for the first time, be sure to mark your calendar to check them each month. That way, if there's a problem going on with one of the bulbs, you're right on top of it before it spreads to the other bulbs.

I'll do another update in January. Happy gardening!

Read More

--Home Gardening Guides--Natural holiday wreaths--Home Gardening Blog --

'Tis the season for lovely holiday decorations, right? Each year, I make a holiday wreath using natural materials from my garden.

I made this wreath a few days ago and it includes spruce, fir and pine branches, sprigs of arbor vitae and then I added a little bit of "bling" for some color. I used a grapevine wreath for the base because they're really easy to poke materials into. The wreaths are very quick and easy to make. If you listen to Christmas music while doing it, and thrown in some cookies and hot spiced cider, you've really turned it into an enjoyable process!

I've written about making natural wreaths on my blog before because I think it's a great way to personalize your holiday decorations. Here's a link to the post: Make your own Christmas wreath. I have also made a video showing the process on my YouTube channel: How to make a holiday wreath.

And here's a little album of wreaths I've made over the past few years: (you can click on any of the photos to view a larger image)

And here's a photo of some wreaths my friends and I made way back in 2008 during a wreath-making party! If you've never hosted one, I heartily encourage you to do it next year.

December 2015 - Hello Friend gunderson-assessment,In the article you read this time with the title December 2015,we have prepared well for this article you read and download the information therein . hopefully fill posts we write this you can understand. Well, happy reading.

Judul : --Home Gardening Guides--Natural holiday wreaths--Home Gardening Blog --
link : --Home Gardening Guides--Natural holiday wreaths--Home Gardening Blog --

December 2015

'Tis the season for lovely holiday decorations, right? Each year, I make a holiday wreath using natural materials from my garden.

I made this wreath a few days ago and it includes spruce, fir and pine branches, sprigs of arbor vitae and then I added a little bit of "bling" for some color. I used a grapevine wreath for the base because they're really easy to poke materials into. The wreaths are very quick and easy to make. If you listen to Christmas music while doing it, and thrown in some cookies and hot spiced cider, you've really turned it into an enjoyable process!

I've written about making natural wreaths on my blog before because I think it's a great way to personalize your holiday decorations. Here's a link to the post: Make your own Christmas wreath. I have also made a video showing the process on my YouTube channel: How to make a holiday wreath.

And here's a little album of wreaths I've made over the past few years: (you can click on any of the photos to view a larger image)

And here's a photo of some wreaths my friends and I made way back in 2008 during a wreath-making party! If you've never hosted one, I heartily encourage you to do it next year.

Read More

--Home Gardening Guides--Holiday Gift Guide for Gardeners--Home Gardening Blog --

With the holidays fast approaching, you are probably trying to figure out what to give your family members and friends.

As someone who is passionate about gardening, I think I'm very easy to shop for: anything having to do with gardening or attracting birds to the garden, and I'm a happy camper!

I've assembled a gift guide for gardeners below, with items selected to both delight and accommodate any budget. To make it simple, all are available at Gardener's Supply. I've been a customer of theirs for years and love their products! Just looking through their catalogs is great fun. They carry everything you could imagine for gardening: tools, seed-starting supplies, planters, garden art, birdhouses and feeders, raised bed kits, plant supports and much more.

I have listed the following items from lowest to highest in cost. All of the photos below were graciously provided by Gardener's Supply. Remember that you can click on any photo to view a larger image of it. Each item has a link to more information on their website. (I am not receiving any benefit from listing these products, by the way.)

1. Nitrile Gloves _ You might think this is a very simple gift but what gardener wouldn't appreciate a comfortable pair or two of garden gloves? And the recipient can make a fashion statement while they're gardening because these gloves come in six different colors. Wouldn't coral, pink or green be fun? Nitrile gloves are great because they fit like, well, a glove! You can feel what you're doing while keeping your hands protected. Cost: $5.95 or $5.00 for two or more pairs.




2. Twine Gift Pack _ Twine is something we all can use in the garden (and for other tasks, for that matter). What makes this item special is that you get eight spools of twine in different colors. Again, it's your (or your recipient's) chance to bring some extra color to the garden! Cost: $9.95.

3. APS 24 Seed-Starting Kit _ I've used this kit for ages and it is fantastic. No worries about forgetting to water your seedlings because of the reservoir and water-wicking system. I can attest to the fact that my seed-starting skills improved dramatically once I started using the APS kits. A kit includes the planting tray, reservoir, capillary mat and greenhouse cover. Cost: $19.15. Other sizes are available as well.




4. Mixed Seed Globe Cage _ Gardeners and non-gardeners alike would love having a bird feeder like this! This feeder is both attractive and will keep the squirrels away from your seed. Cost: $29.95.

5. Edwardian Bird Feeder _This is another attractive bird feeder. Wouldn't it look lovely in your garden? This one also will keep squirrels and larger pest birds away from the seeds, which your feathered friends will appreciate. Cost: $39.95.





6. Viva Self-Watering Balcony Railing Planter _ No garden? No problem! These colorful pots rest on a balcony, bringing flowers and nature closer to you. I love the colors they come in: red, blue, black, white, purple and turquoise. And being self-watering containers means the plants will be non-stressed and you won't have to water as often. Cost: $39.95.

7. Garden Hod _ Here's something both useful and attractive. These garden hods make it easy to carry produce you've harvested from your garden. Because they have a wire bottom, you can easily rinse off your veggies before bringing them into the kitchen. The hods come in both small and large sizes. Cost: $44.95 to $49.95.







8. 3-Tube Finch Feeder _ This bird feeder is high on my wish list! ("Oh, honey...!") There are so many finches in our garden (my favorites are the Goldfinches). I know they would love having feeders with so many perches on them (24, to be precise!). This item will bring flocks of finches to your garden, too. Each feeder is 24" tall and holds a pound of niger thistle seed, a finch's favorite treat. Cost: $44.95.



9. GardenEase Kneeler _ Many of you probably remember that I have this kneeler and use it constantly in my garden. I wrote a review of it on this blog back in April after being so amazed by how comfortable it is for my knees. If you have sore, tired knees, you'll love this! The ergonomically-designed handles are easy on the wrists and make it a breeze to get up and down during gardening activities. Cost: $59.89 (note: it usually costs $69.95 but is on sale right now).

I hope this has given you some ideas for your shopping list... as well as items to put on your own wish list  (make sure Santa reads this). Happy holidays!

December 2015 - Hello Friend gunderson-assessment,In the article you read this time with the title December 2015,we have prepared well for this article you read and download the information therein . hopefully fill posts we write this you can understand. Well, happy reading.

Judul : --Home Gardening Guides--Holiday Gift Guide for Gardeners--Home Gardening Blog --
link : --Home Gardening Guides--Holiday Gift Guide for Gardeners--Home Gardening Blog --

December 2015

With the holidays fast approaching, you are probably trying to figure out what to give your family members and friends.

As someone who is passionate about gardening, I think I'm very easy to shop for: anything having to do with gardening or attracting birds to the garden, and I'm a happy camper!

I've assembled a gift guide for gardeners below, with items selected to both delight and accommodate any budget. To make it simple, all are available at Gardener's Supply. I've been a customer of theirs for years and love their products! Just looking through their catalogs is great fun. They carry everything you could imagine for gardening: tools, seed-starting supplies, planters, garden art, birdhouses and feeders, raised bed kits, plant supports and much more.

I have listed the following items from lowest to highest in cost. All of the photos below were graciously provided by Gardener's Supply. Remember that you can click on any photo to view a larger image of it. Each item has a link to more information on their website. (I am not receiving any benefit from listing these products, by the way.)

1. Nitrile Gloves _ You might think this is a very simple gift but what gardener wouldn't appreciate a comfortable pair or two of garden gloves? And the recipient can make a fashion statement while they're gardening because these gloves come in six different colors. Wouldn't coral, pink or green be fun? Nitrile gloves are great because they fit like, well, a glove! You can feel what you're doing while keeping your hands protected. Cost: $5.95 or $5.00 for two or more pairs.




2. Twine Gift Pack _ Twine is something we all can use in the garden (and for other tasks, for that matter). What makes this item special is that you get eight spools of twine in different colors. Again, it's your (or your recipient's) chance to bring some extra color to the garden! Cost: $9.95.

3. APS 24 Seed-Starting Kit _ I've used this kit for ages and it is fantastic. No worries about forgetting to water your seedlings because of the reservoir and water-wicking system. I can attest to the fact that my seed-starting skills improved dramatically once I started using the APS kits. A kit includes the planting tray, reservoir, capillary mat and greenhouse cover. Cost: $19.15. Other sizes are available as well.




4. Mixed Seed Globe Cage _ Gardeners and non-gardeners alike would love having a bird feeder like this! This feeder is both attractive and will keep the squirrels away from your seed. Cost: $29.95.

5. Edwardian Bird Feeder _This is another attractive bird feeder. Wouldn't it look lovely in your garden? This one also will keep squirrels and larger pest birds away from the seeds, which your feathered friends will appreciate. Cost: $39.95.





6. Viva Self-Watering Balcony Railing Planter _ No garden? No problem! These colorful pots rest on a balcony, bringing flowers and nature closer to you. I love the colors they come in: red, blue, black, white, purple and turquoise. And being self-watering containers means the plants will be non-stressed and you won't have to water as often. Cost: $39.95.

7. Garden Hod _ Here's something both useful and attractive. These garden hods make it easy to carry produce you've harvested from your garden. Because they have a wire bottom, you can easily rinse off your veggies before bringing them into the kitchen. The hods come in both small and large sizes. Cost: $44.95 to $49.95.







8. 3-Tube Finch Feeder _ This bird feeder is high on my wish list! ("Oh, honey...!") There are so many finches in our garden (my favorites are the Goldfinches). I know they would love having feeders with so many perches on them (24, to be precise!). This item will bring flocks of finches to your garden, too. Each feeder is 24" tall and holds a pound of niger thistle seed, a finch's favorite treat. Cost: $44.95.



9. GardenEase Kneeler _ Many of you probably remember that I have this kneeler and use it constantly in my garden. I wrote a review of it on this blog back in April after being so amazed by how comfortable it is for my knees. If you have sore, tired knees, you'll love this! The ergonomically-designed handles are easy on the wrists and make it a breeze to get up and down during gardening activities. Cost: $59.89 (note: it usually costs $69.95 but is on sale right now).

I hope this has given you some ideas for your shopping list... as well as items to put on your own wish list  (make sure Santa reads this). Happy holidays!

Read More