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Who Else Would Like To Increase Their Backyard Harvest? |
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Contributed by Tom B Johnson
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 Backyard Harvest
1. Deadheading.
Attempt to keep each of your plants free from dead flowers and withered leaves by deadheading. All this means is the removal of limp flower heads and dried up leaves, this simple job will induce your plants to grow more flowers for longer periods of time. There aren't many plants that don't benefit from having spent flowers removed... they will smile and so will you.
2. Nip out your tops.
Most leafy plants will react favorably to having their tops pinched out, it encourages them to be more prolific and dense. Some flower producing plants such as Fuchsias are inclined to turn leggy unless they are pinched out. So the rule of the green thumb is - if it's looking thin and leggy, nip out the tops and notice it bush out.
3. Use minimal fertilizer.
A minimal amount of fertilizer will assist in further aiding the development of your precious plants. However if you water your garden often, you will be required to fertilize more often because water depletes the nutrients. An supply of liquid fertilizer incorporating seaweed every two weeks is regarded more valuable than granulated fertilizer as it is more readily taken up by the roots and leaves. Container plants will reward you with a hearty grin if a fifty fifty solution of the same liquid fertilizer is applied frequently.
4. Get the weeds out.
One of the finest ways to intensify the attractiveness of your garden by the yard is to do a regular weed patrol. The fact is, weeds rival all your other plants for both nutrients and moisture. My particular approach is to get rid of weeds completely, don't use them for compost or mulch because you are at risk of re-infection. If you feel you need to use a weedkiller, attempt to get the type with a wick applicator, rather than any type of spray. This will safeguard your best plants from spray-drift.
5. Water them well.
One excellent tip is to give your garden a complete soaking once a week rather than shallow watering more often, always making sure that you don't permit run-off which will lead to erosion. This deep watering will encourage the growth of healthier, deeper roots that will be more able to tolerate any dry spells of weather.
6. Take a stand against chemicals.
Chemicals are very hazardous to pets, humans and will kill most, if not all, the natural predators of the pests in your garden, so do not use them if possible and only use them sparingly as a last resort. A small amount of research will show there are many organic options that work equally as well and are much better for the environment.
These six basic tips are useful advice to keep your garden by the yard in top condition and make it the envy of your friends and neighbors.
Tom Johnson is a keen home gardener with a desire to help others see what joy and fulfillment gardening can bring to their lives. For more tips and tricks get our FREE Report.
Article Source: articledashboard.com |
