Copyright (c) 2013 VegetableGardener.com en-us Vegetable Gardener - ChrisMcLaughlin's posts http://www.vegetablegardener.com/profile/ChrisMcLaughlin Sat, 18 May 2013 14:13:31 -0500 Vegetable Gardener - ChrisMcLaughlin's posts http://www.vegetablegardener.com/assets/images/cs_logo_sm.jpg http://www.vegetablegardener.com/profile/ChrisMcLaughlin Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:45:26 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13619/plant-pink-heirloom-tomatoes http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13619/plant-pink-heirloom-tomatoes Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
One of my favorite things about heirloom and open-pollinated vegetables is discovering the amazing array of color variation. And heirloom tomatoes have beautiful hues in spades. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13619/plant-pink-heirloom-tomatoes Mon, 29 Apr 2013 23:06:50 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13615/5-tips-for-transplanting-vegetable-seedlings http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13615/5-tips-for-transplanting-vegetable-seedlings Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Successfully transplant your seedlings into the garden bed with five simple steps. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13615/5-tips-for-transplanting-vegetable-seedlings Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:00:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13610/dwarf-citrus-trees-for-the-small-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13610/dwarf-citrus-trees-for-the-small-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you haven't done any citrus gardening yet (but would like to), consider foregoing the giant standards and planting their dwarf cousins instead. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13610/dwarf-citrus-trees-for-the-small-garden Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:58:36 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13350/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13350/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You may have heard that worm castings make an excellent addition to the soil in your garden beds. But what's the scoop on worm poop? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13350/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment Thu, 31 Jan 2013 23:09:06 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13237/how-to-grow-your-own-potatoes http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13237/how-to-grow-your-own-potatoes Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Harvest home grown potatoes easily and inexpensively. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13237/how-to-grow-your-own-potatoes Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:14:43 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13228/herbs-that-attract-pollinating-insects http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13228/herbs-that-attract-pollinating-insects Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Complement your vegetable garden with pollinator-seducing herbs. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13228/herbs-that-attract-pollinating-insects Mon, 28 Jan 2013 23:20:43 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13212/rain-barrels-rainwater-irrigation http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13212/rain-barrels-rainwater-irrigation Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I think rain barrels are one of the best irrigation systems ever. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13212/rain-barrels-rainwater-irrigation Mon, 31 Dec 2012 19:07:18 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13130/how-to-harden-off-seedlings http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13130/how-to-harden-off-seedlings Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Give your baby plants a great head start by acclimating them to the great outdoors before transplanting them in their permanent garden bed. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13130/how-to-harden-off-seedlings Fri, 30 Nov 2012 21:39:36 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13011/using-compost-and-manure-teas-in-the-home-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13011/using-compost-and-manure-teas-in-the-home-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Have you tried feeding your plants naturally with compost or manure teas? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13011/using-compost-and-manure-teas-in-the-home-garden Wed, 28 Nov 2012 23:34:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12998/forcing-branches-to-bloom-indoors-during-the-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12998/forcing-branches-to-bloom-indoors-during-the-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Tricking tree and shrub branches into thinking it's spring and encouraging their blossoms to burst is easier than you think. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12998/forcing-branches-to-bloom-indoors-during-the-winter Tue, 27 Nov 2012 22:20:08 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12993/the-vanilla-bean-orchid http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12993/the-vanilla-bean-orchid Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The only commercially cultivated orchid grown for its delicious beans. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12993/the-vanilla-bean-orchid Mon, 26 Nov 2012 23:34:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12982/how-to-plant-and-grow-garlic-bulbs http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12982/how-to-plant-and-grow-garlic-bulbs Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Garlic is a must-have in the kitchen and an easy crop to grow in your home garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12982/how-to-plant-and-grow-garlic-bulbs Wed, 31 Oct 2012 16:30:05 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12909/growing-spinach-in-the-home-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12909/growing-spinach-in-the-home-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Spinach is a cool-season, annual crop that's east to grow. Make space for it in your fall or winter garden! ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12909/growing-spinach-in-the-home-garden Tue, 30 Oct 2012 22:42:50 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12905/what-not-to-add-to-the-compost-pile http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12905/what-not-to-add-to-the-compost-pile Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Should all types of organic matter be tossed into your compost pile? Certainly not. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12905/what-not-to-add-to-the-compost-pile Wed, 24 Oct 2012 22:19:58 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12875/top-composting-myths-debunked http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12875/top-composting-myths-debunked Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Composting is the original earth (and garden) friendly practice, yet false information can be hard to kill. Let's put the top misconceptions to rest once and for all, shall we? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12875/top-composting-myths-debunked Fri, 19 Oct 2012 19:17:31 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12876/crop-rotation-technique-2-rotating-for-soil-fertility http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12876/crop-rotation-technique-2-rotating-for-soil-fertility Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Rotating plants by nutritional needs is another way to utilize crop rotation in the home vegetable garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12876/crop-rotation-technique-2-rotating-for-soil-fertility Fri, 21 Sep 2012 22:13:27 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12768/crop-rotation-technique-1-rotating-plant-families http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12768/crop-rotation-technique-1-rotating-plant-families Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Try this simple and effective technique an an organic control of pests and diseases in the vegetable garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12768/crop-rotation-technique-1-rotating-plant-families Fri, 31 Aug 2012 22:26:25 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12686/build-a-compost-pile-to-suit-your-style http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12686/build-a-compost-pile-to-suit-your-style Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
There's a composting method to suit everyone's lifestyle. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12686/build-a-compost-pile-to-suit-your-style Wed, 22 Aug 2012 22:40:19 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12652/summer-savory-in-the-kitchen-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12652/summer-savory-in-the-kitchen-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Versatile summer savory is undemanding in the garden, makes a delicate food seasoning, and attracts pollinating insects. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12652/summer-savory-in-the-kitchen-garden Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:46:54 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12565/discover-and-grow-tomatoes-in-surprising-colors http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12565/discover-and-grow-tomatoes-in-surprising-colors Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Colorful heirloom and open-pollinated tomato varieties are unique in the home garden and delicious on the table. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12565/discover-and-grow-tomatoes-in-surprising-colors Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:24:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12541/california-state-fair-and-its-amazing-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12541/california-state-fair-and-its-amazing-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
California shows off one of its best sides -- agriculture, in this monstrous home vegetable and fruit garden at the California State Fair. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12541/california-state-fair-and-its-amazing-vegetable-garden Thu, 31 May 2012 23:54:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12318/top-10-safety-precautions-for-garden-construction-projects http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12318/top-10-safety-precautions-for-garden-construction-projects Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
A gentle reminder about safety precautions we should take before tackling construction projects in the garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12318/top-10-safety-precautions-for-garden-construction-projects Sat, 26 May 2012 18:44:06 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12278/5-great-reasons-to-grow-vegetables-vertically http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12278/5-great-reasons-to-grow-vegetables-vertically Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You can grow plenty of food to supplement your family's groceries. You just have to get in the habit of letting your mind wander up instead of out. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12278/5-great-reasons-to-grow-vegetables-vertically Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:46:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12159/prolific-pole-beans http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12159/prolific-pole-beans Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Pole bean varieties are tender, flavorful, prolific, and easy to grow. They're the perfect vegetable crop for the home garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/12159/prolific-pole-beans Tue, 20 Mar 2012 20:57:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11989/the-difference-between-hot-cold-and-warm-compost-piles http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11989/the-difference-between-hot-cold-and-warm-compost-piles Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
No matter how much time you have (or the length of your attention span), there's a composting style for everybody. How to do hot, cold, and warm composting. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11989/the-difference-between-hot-cold-and-warm-compost-piles Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:55:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11911/using-your-fence-for-growing-vertical-vegetables http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11911/using-your-fence-for-growing-vertical-vegetables Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Fencing that you already have on your property is fair game as a support for vertical vegetables. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11911/using-your-fence-for-growing-vertical-vegetables Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:32:26 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11814/growing-oregano-in-the-kitchen-herb-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11814/growing-oregano-in-the-kitchen-herb-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Oregano requires very little attention and happily produces many pungent, aromatic leaves with the most basic care. Pots or containers make a perfect home for oregano, which makes it handy for back porches or those with limited garden space. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11814/growing-oregano-in-the-kitchen-herb-garden Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:44:26 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11781/grow-heirloom-sweet-and-hot-peppers-in-your-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11781/grow-heirloom-sweet-and-hot-peppers-in-your-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Just like all of the other vegetables out there, when you choose to grow heirloom sweet or bell peppers, a whole new world is opened up to you. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11781/grow-heirloom-sweet-and-hot-peppers-in-your-vegetable-garden Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:41:31 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11774/caging-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetable-varieties http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11774/caging-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetable-varieties Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Caging is one type of physical barrier technique that allows heirlooms and open-pollinated plants to produce pure seed. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11774/caging-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetable-varieties Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:03:03 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11771/bagging-plants-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetables http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11771/bagging-plants-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetables Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Keep your vegetable seeds pure by preventing cross-pollination with the bagging technique. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11771/bagging-plants-to-prevent-cross-pollination-of-vegetables Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:45:05 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11684/indoor-seed-starting-materials-list http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11684/indoor-seed-starting-materials-list Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
For those of us living in a region that has rather mild winters, the seed starting party is only 4-5 weeks away. For some it's a little farther out. But make no mistake, it's going to be here before you know it. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11684/indoor-seed-starting-materials-list Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:12:04 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11665/the-heirloom-life-gardener-book-review http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11665/the-heirloom-life-gardener-book-review Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This holiday season, I've become wrapped up in a book that's tailor-made for my reading pleasure: The Heirloom Life Gardener. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11665/the-heirloom-life-gardener-book-review Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:46:34 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11656/for-crying-out-loud-tips-for-no-tear-onion-cutting http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11656/for-crying-out-loud-tips-for-no-tear-onion-cutting Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
So why all the tears? Well, once you take your knife to the onion, enzymes and Amino acid sulfoxides come together to create a volatile sulfur compound (in the form of a gas). This is what turns on the water works. Your eyes are attempting to wash away the offending gases. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11656/for-crying-out-loud-tips-for-no-tear-onion-cutting Sun, 27 Nov 2011 23:23:38 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11644/collection-of-successful-organic-controls http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11644/collection-of-successful-organic-controls Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
All seasoned gardeners have organic gardening hints that they swear-on-a-stack-of-Bibles will work to repel pests, cure disease, and deter weeds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11644/collection-of-successful-organic-controls Thu, 24 Nov 2011 03:56:02 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11628/thoughts-on-organic-gardening http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11628/thoughts-on-organic-gardening Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
"Organic gardening" is a term that's gone from hip buzzword to nearly completely invisible in a sentence simply because the term feels overused. This is a shame because organic gardening really does make a difference no matter how lack-luster the phrase sounds today. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11628/thoughts-on-organic-gardening Mon, 31 Oct 2011 20:52:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11590/grow-grapes-in-your-home-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11590/grow-grapes-in-your-home-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you're a grape fan, rest assured that you don't need a formal vineyard to have a few vines planted in your home garden or landscape. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11590/grow-grapes-in-your-home-garden Sat, 29 Oct 2011 19:08:11 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11570/your-farm-in-the-city-book-review http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11570/your-farm-in-the-city-book-review Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Let's start with the obvious which is the physical presence of the book which is, in this case, worth discussing. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11570/your-farm-in-the-city-book-review Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:45:38 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11557/everyone-has-room-for-a-greenhouse http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11557/everyone-has-room-for-a-greenhouse Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Let's move past the house-of-dreams, and get on to what we can afford in terms of both space and money. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11557/everyone-has-room-for-a-greenhouse Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:25:22 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11514/damn-you-my-deer http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11514/damn-you-my-deer Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Even though the deer stepped silently into the yard and devoured a container rose bush all in one night, I remained optimistic for a bit longer. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11514/damn-you-my-deer Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:32:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11442/storing-your-bountiful-harvest-the-trash-can-root-cellar http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11442/storing-your-bountiful-harvest-the-trash-can-root-cellar Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
As the fall-come-winter weather creeps up, those of us who never set a foot inside a honest-to-goodness root cellar a day in our lives are looking for nooks, crannies, cupboards, and hallways trying to find the perfect place to store what we worked so hard to grow. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11442/storing-your-bountiful-harvest-the-trash-can-root-cellar Wed, 31 Aug 2011 21:33:57 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11381/a-second-round-of-broccoli-for-fall http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11381/a-second-round-of-broccoli-for-fall Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I want to thank my Italian ancestors for introducing broccoli to America as it's hands-down one of my favorite vegetables. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11381/a-second-round-of-broccoli-for-fall Tue, 30 Aug 2011 17:26:53 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11371/got-plant-pests-try-insecticidal-soap http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11371/got-plant-pests-try-insecticidal-soap Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Backyard gardeners everywhere are doing their part to push pesticides out of the gardening picture for good and insecticidal soaps are helping them do just that. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11371/got-plant-pests-try-insecticidal-soap Sun, 28 Aug 2011 00:19:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11365/plant-a-fall-lettuce-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11365/plant-a-fall-lettuce-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This annual plant that belongs to the sunflower family and that fact alone makes me feel cheery inside. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11365/plant-a-fall-lettuce-garden Mon, 01 Aug 2011 22:03:15 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11244/seasonal-recipes-from-the-garden-by-p-allen-smith http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11244/seasonal-recipes-from-the-garden-by-p-allen-smith Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Your search has ended. We've got your summer garden-bounty recipe book right here. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11244/seasonal-recipes-from-the-garden-by-p-allen-smith Fri, 08 Jul 2011 19:27:47 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11167/interplanting-crops-in-the-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11167/interplanting-crops-in-the-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Small-space vegetable garden? Make the most of it by interplanting. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11167/interplanting-crops-in-the-vegetable-garden Fri, 24 Jun 2011 21:38:31 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11116/i-garden-urban-style-book-review http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11116/i-garden-urban-style-book-review Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Down-to-Earth, practical, whimsical, and beautiful. If you like gardens, you need this book. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11116/i-garden-urban-style-book-review Mon, 30 May 2011 13:34:14 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10972/sweet-and-sour-soil-testing-your-soils-ph-levels http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10972/sweet-and-sour-soil-testing-your-soils-ph-levels Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Understanding what soil pH is and where your specific soil falls on the pH scale gives clues as to which plants will naturally thrive in your garden. This knowledge also allows you to add the appropriate amendments to your soil. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10972/sweet-and-sour-soil-testing-your-soils-ph-levels Wed, 25 May 2011 17:59:56 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10936/effective-old-fashioned-weed-pulling http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10936/effective-old-fashioned-weed-pulling Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
No matter how great the gardening advances, sometimes nothing compares with good, old-fashioned manual labor. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10936/effective-old-fashioned-weed-pulling Sun, 08 May 2011 17:25:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10844/should-you-take-out-all-or-some-of-your-lawn http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10844/should-you-take-out-all-or-some-of-your-lawn Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The truth is that it depends. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10844/should-you-take-out-all-or-some-of-your-lawn Fri, 22 Apr 2011 14:34:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10771/multi-grafted-fruit-trees-are-perfect-for-small-gardens http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10771/multi-grafted-fruit-trees-are-perfect-for-small-gardens Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
We small-space gardeners are indebted to those that pioneered these trees and we're prepared to take full advantage. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10771/multi-grafted-fruit-trees-are-perfect-for-small-gardens Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:59:39 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10658/have-a-small-space-garden-try-dwarf-vegetable-varieties http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10658/have-a-small-space-garden-try-dwarf-vegetable-varieties Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I just happen to have handy some dwarf-sized vegetable suggestions. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10658/have-a-small-space-garden-try-dwarf-vegetable-varieties Sat, 26 Mar 2011 19:53:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10607/raised-beds-for-your-garden-framing-materials http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10607/raised-beds-for-your-garden-framing-materials Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
There are many ways to go about framing a raised bed and material ideas are endless. There's only a couple of things that deserve some consideration before you put one or two together this spring. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10607/raised-beds-for-your-garden-framing-materials Sat, 12 Mar 2011 18:13:56 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10556/what-are-microclimates http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10556/what-are-microclimates Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you think that the numbers on the USDA zone map have the last word on your garden - think again. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10556/what-are-microclimates Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:36:51 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10542/your-vegetable-garden-will-thrive-with-compost http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10542/your-vegetable-garden-will-thrive-with-compost Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Beloved compost, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10542/your-vegetable-garden-will-thrive-with-compost Fri, 18 Feb 2011 18:29:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10481/legal-guerrilla-gardening http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10481/legal-guerrilla-gardening Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Personally, I don't find it at all amazing that the practice caught on like wildfire. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10481/legal-guerrilla-gardening Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:17:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10460/should-you-grow-determinate-or-indeterminate-tomato-plants http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10460/should-you-grow-determinate-or-indeterminate-tomato-plants Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Among the tons of veggies started this winter, probably the majority of those will be tomato seeds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10460/should-you-grow-determinate-or-indeterminate-tomato-plants Fri, 28 Jan 2011 19:48:14 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10419/how-to-share-open-pollinated-and-heirloom-vegetable-seeds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10419/how-to-share-open-pollinated-and-heirloom-vegetable-seeds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You'll find that many people aren't growing heirlooms or open-pollinated veggies simply because they haven't been introduced to them. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10419/how-to-share-open-pollinated-and-heirloom-vegetable-seeds Thu, 20 Jan 2011 20:21:15 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10398/remember-to-rotate-your-crops http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10398/remember-to-rotate-your-crops Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
No worries. If you forget to rotate your crops no one will take away your birthday. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10398/remember-to-rotate-your-crops Wed, 12 Jan 2011 19:33:27 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10380/seed-banks-and-seed-lending-libraries http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10380/seed-banks-and-seed-lending-libraries Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Both seed banks and seed lending libraries can go a long way in preserving our history, genetic variety, and feeding people. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10380/seed-banks-and-seed-lending-libraries Sat, 08 Jan 2011 23:24:44 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10369/host-a-seedling-swap-party-in-late-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10369/host-a-seedling-swap-party-in-late-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Okay, there is one last window of opportunity to get a fabulous pre-garden party on... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10369/host-a-seedling-swap-party-in-late-winter Fri, 31 Dec 2010 12:39:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10340/question-does-your-compost-pile-smell http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10340/question-does-your-compost-pile-smell Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Answer: It shouldn't. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10340/question-does-your-compost-pile-smell Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:03:05 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10338/should-weeds-be-added-to-the-compost-pile http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10338/should-weeds-be-added-to-the-compost-pile Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I'm determined to have their short, weedy lives have some meaning. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10338/should-weeds-be-added-to-the-compost-pile Fri, 24 Dec 2010 11:58:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10324/why-are-you-planting-a-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10324/why-are-you-planting-a-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
What are your vegetable gardening goals? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10324/why-are-you-planting-a-vegetable-garden Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:22:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10322/do-you-need-more-garden-space http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10322/do-you-need-more-garden-space Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Find more garden space this spring. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10322/do-you-need-more-garden-space Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:43:41 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10296/pre-sprouting-as-spring-weed-control http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10296/pre-sprouting-as-spring-weed-control Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The good news is that weeds can be outsmarted. Ve have our vays. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10296/pre-sprouting-as-spring-weed-control Sun, 12 Dec 2010 22:42:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10170/winter-gardening-with-bare-root-trees-and-shrubs http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10170/winter-gardening-with-bare-root-trees-and-shrubs Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The first advantage is that they're cheaper - usually much cheaper. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10170/winter-gardening-with-bare-root-trees-and-shrubs Sat, 11 Dec 2010 22:44:20 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10168/prune-fruit-trees-and-shrubs-at-the-right-time http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10168/prune-fruit-trees-and-shrubs-at-the-right-time Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
No, it's not always the act of pruning that can get tricky, but rather the timing and the type of pruning. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10168/prune-fruit-trees-and-shrubs-at-the-right-time Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:26:45 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10141/using-moon-phases-as-a-planting-guide http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10141/using-moon-phases-as-a-planting-guide Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
At first glance, this gardening technique may not look like much more than luck and a prayer. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10141/using-moon-phases-as-a-planting-guide Sat, 04 Dec 2010 23:10:30 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10125/rosemary-plants-as-miniature-christmas-trees http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10125/rosemary-plants-as-miniature-christmas-trees Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Personally, I don't have any problem with shaping rosemary bushes into topiaries of any kind. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10125/rosemary-plants-as-miniature-christmas-trees Sat, 27 Nov 2010 23:35:46 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10110/the-winter-pomegranate-harvest http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10110/the-winter-pomegranate-harvest Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Remember back in grade school when pomegranates would make our lunch sacks heavy? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10110/the-winter-pomegranate-harvest Wed, 24 Nov 2010 23:19:45 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10101/how-to-protect-your-garden-plants-from-frost http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10101/how-to-protect-your-garden-plants-from-frost Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
By throwing down just one hard frost, Old Man Winter can kill all but the hardiest of vegetables. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10101/how-to-protect-your-garden-plants-from-frost Tue, 23 Nov 2010 19:44:53 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10091/jack-frost-in-the-winter-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10091/jack-frost-in-the-winter-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Those of us enjoying the harvest from out fall and early winter vegetable gardens be forewarned; Jack Frost takes no prisoners. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10091/jack-frost-in-the-winter-vegetable-garden Sun, 21 Nov 2010 00:05:30 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10089/pruning-terms-defined http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10089/pruning-terms-defined Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Knowing the definition of pruning terms won't automatically make you a pruning rock star. But, you'll probably know more than your neighbor. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10089/pruning-terms-defined Sat, 13 Nov 2010 20:51:20 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10048/how-to-use-mulch-in-your-garden-or-landscape http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10048/how-to-use-mulch-in-your-garden-or-landscape Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Think "artist", not "scientist" when spreading your mulch. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10048/how-to-use-mulch-in-your-garden-or-landscape Fri, 12 Nov 2010 22:51:57 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10046/the-best-time-to-mulch http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10046/the-best-time-to-mulch Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
For me, this is a first-class practice as far as recycling goes. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10046/the-best-time-to-mulch Sat, 06 Nov 2010 20:10:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10021/chives-for-the-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10021/chives-for-the-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
There's not may things that I won't sprinkle my onion-y snippets over. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10021/chives-for-the-winter Fri, 05 Nov 2010 19:09:56 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10017/rain-barrels-for-christmas http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10017/rain-barrels-for-christmas Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I'm sorry that I had to resort to using the "C" word, but it got your attention, am I right? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/10017/rain-barrels-for-christmas Sat, 30 Oct 2010 11:05:22 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9977/the-purple-striped-chesnok-red-garlic http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9977/the-purple-striped-chesnok-red-garlic Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I'm a garlic freak so you'll forgive me if I pass on growing that impostor, Elephant Garlic. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9977/the-purple-striped-chesnok-red-garlic Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:23:47 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9973/your-easiest-vegetable-garden-ever-and-other-things http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9973/your-easiest-vegetable-garden-ever-and-other-things Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I have some random thoughts for you on fall and winter crops. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9973/your-easiest-vegetable-garden-ever-and-other-things Sat, 23 Oct 2010 20:15:53 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9950/perfect-fall-gardening-tasks http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9950/perfect-fall-gardening-tasks Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Don't snuggle up by the fire in your over-stuffed chair just yet. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9950/perfect-fall-gardening-tasks Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:07:28 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9927/winter-tomatoes http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9927/winter-tomatoes Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I think I'm going to be sorry that I didn't use my Earthbox for this little experiment. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9927/winter-tomatoes Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:58:51 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9921/bright-lights-swiss-chard http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9921/bright-lights-swiss-chard Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I know, I know who hasn't grown 'Bright Lights' Swiss Chard, am I right? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9921/bright-lights-swiss-chard Fri, 15 Oct 2010 18:10:21 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9901/keep-rabbits-out-of-your-fall-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9901/keep-rabbits-out-of-your-fall-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Ever planted a "Peace Offering Rabbit Border"? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9901/keep-rabbits-out-of-your-fall-garden Sat, 09 Oct 2010 00:51:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9884/asian-daikon-radishes-for-the-winter-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9884/asian-daikon-radishes-for-the-winter-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
They're the perfect radish for fall and winter gardens. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9884/asian-daikon-radishes-for-the-winter-garden Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:32:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9870/roast-some-healthy-pumpkin-seeds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9870/roast-some-healthy-pumpkin-seeds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Inside a pumpkin near you is a delicious and healthy snack. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9870/roast-some-healthy-pumpkin-seeds Fri, 01 Oct 2010 22:33:47 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9865/borrow-a-goat-for-your-fall-yard-cleanup http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9865/borrow-a-goat-for-your-fall-yard-cleanup Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The truth is that they'll actually do a better job than you. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9865/borrow-a-goat-for-your-fall-yard-cleanup Sat, 25 Sep 2010 23:26:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9827/cabbage-in-the-fall-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9827/cabbage-in-the-fall-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Want your garden to look like that uber-staged Garden of Eden from the movie, "It's Complicated"? Grow cabbages. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9827/cabbage-in-the-fall-garden Thu, 23 Sep 2010 15:37:20 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9817/time-to-plant-a-cover-crop http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9817/time-to-plant-a-cover-crop Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Okay, raise your hand if you're planting vetch this fall! ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9817/time-to-plant-a-cover-crop Sun, 19 Sep 2010 00:34:05 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9796/how-hot-are-thai-dragon-peppers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9796/how-hot-are-thai-dragon-peppers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Yesterday my son discovered a new level of hot. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9796/how-hot-are-thai-dragon-peppers Wed, 15 Sep 2010 23:13:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9780/time-to-plant-handy-kitchen-vegetables-onions-and-garlic http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9780/time-to-plant-handy-kitchen-vegetables-onions-and-garlic Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I don't know what you're doing in your garden right now, but I hope it involves planting garlic and onions. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9780/time-to-plant-handy-kitchen-vegetables-onions-and-garlic Fri, 10 Sep 2010 18:27:43 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9740/here-comes-honeycrisp-apple-season http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9740/here-comes-honeycrisp-apple-season Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It may seem like a small window on the calendar. But oh, how they're worth the wait. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9740/here-comes-honeycrisp-apple-season Tue, 07 Sep 2010 22:47:01 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9691/eat-your-dandelions http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9691/eat-your-dandelions Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Serve up a little poetic justice. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9691/eat-your-dandelions Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:56:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9682/compost-sandwiches-grow-awesome-vegetables http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9682/compost-sandwiches-grow-awesome-vegetables Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I'm so thrilled with the outcome of my compost sandwiches that I almost forgive the chiweenies for trampling every one of my heirloom bush beans to death. Almost. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9682/compost-sandwiches-grow-awesome-vegetables Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:58:52 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9615/get-a-head-start-on-your-cilantro http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9615/get-a-head-start-on-your-cilantro Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I love cilantro in the garden, but it's the fastest bolting herb I've ever come across. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9615/get-a-head-start-on-your-cilantro Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:55:38 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9588/all-we-need-is-our-lemon-cucumbers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9588/all-we-need-is-our-lemon-cucumbers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Every year since I can remember, we've over-planted cucumbers. This year, we ended the cuke parade. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9588/all-we-need-is-our-lemon-cucumbers Sun, 22 Aug 2010 00:14:31 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9579/an-easy-way-to-dry-chili-peppers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9579/an-easy-way-to-dry-chili-peppers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
We'll also be canning some peppers - although not many since the chiweenies trampled a ton of my plants this year. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9579/an-easy-way-to-dry-chili-peppers Sun, 15 Aug 2010 22:27:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9529/support-local-farmers-by-joining-a-csa http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9529/support-local-farmers-by-joining-a-csa Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Personally, I think this is the best thing to come along since Kleenex. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9529/support-local-farmers-by-joining-a-csa Wed, 11 Aug 2010 20:39:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9505/what-watermelon-varieties-are-you-harvesting-this-summer http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9505/what-watermelon-varieties-are-you-harvesting-this-summer Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Mark Twain once said, "When one has tasted watermelon he knows what the angels eat." You'll get no argument here. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9505/what-watermelon-varieties-are-you-harvesting-this-summer Wed, 04 Aug 2010 11:32:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9440/pollinating-insects-in-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9440/pollinating-insects-in-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Just like the predatory insects, you'll want to lure the pollinators to the garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9440/pollinating-insects-in-the-garden Mon, 02 Aug 2010 20:24:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9438/predatory-insects-in-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9438/predatory-insects-in-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Here's a handy list of the beneficial insect predators that you'll want to invite to your garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9438/predatory-insects-in-the-garden Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:36:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9364/get-ready-for-fall-lettuce http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9364/get-ready-for-fall-lettuce Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Still when I think of grocery stores, I can't help but think of iceberg lettuce. Iceberg lettuce is just the tip of the, well - iceberg. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9364/get-ready-for-fall-lettuce Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:09:25 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9329/my-one-fairy-tale-eggplant http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9329/my-one-fairy-tale-eggplant Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I've never grown Fairy Tale before and to tell you the truth I've never cooked my own eggplant ever. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9329/my-one-fairy-tale-eggplant Wed, 21 Jul 2010 01:30:56 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9313/checked-your-watering-system-lately http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9313/checked-your-watering-system-lately Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Don't panic immediately. What it could also be that your watering system is failing you. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9313/checked-your-watering-system-lately Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:34:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9294/culinary-herbs-that-grow-well-in-shade http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9294/culinary-herbs-that-grow-well-in-shade Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Let go of perfection - herbs can deal with a little shade. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9294/culinary-herbs-that-grow-well-in-shade Thu, 15 Jul 2010 23:47:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9232/my-bountiful-strawberry-harvest http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9232/my-bountiful-strawberry-harvest Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
And now I'm glad that when I planted them I put on my big girl panties, closed my eyes, and pinched off all the very first blossoms. Painful; but incredibly rewarding. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9232/my-bountiful-strawberry-harvest Fri, 09 Jul 2010 17:57:43 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9213/edible-flowers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9213/edible-flowers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
While you're harvesting your fruits and veggies this summer for the dinner table...why not keep an eye out for edible flowers, too? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9213/edible-flowers Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:48:04 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9186/garlic-bulb-types http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9186/garlic-bulb-types Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Extra Tip: If you find yourself face-to-face with a vampire (and you don't want to be), all garlic works equally well in this situation. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9186/garlic-bulb-types Tue, 06 Jul 2010 01:03:33 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9172/containing-potatoes http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9172/containing-potatoes Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I fantasized about placing it strategically on my front lawn. My crops would never be prouder and the neighbors would drool with envy. One look at the price tag and I was over it. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9172/containing-potatoes Tue, 29 Jun 2010 17:10:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5164/how-to-grow-basil http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5164/how-to-grow-basil Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
When I first fell in love with gardening, my biggest seducer was herbs. I found herbs to be not only one of the easiest types of plants to grow, but they were also the most fun to create a garden with - not to mention the most versatile group of plants out there. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5164/how-to-grow-basil Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:07:27 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9140/how-do-you-know-when-to-harvest-sweet-corn http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9140/how-do-you-know-when-to-harvest-sweet-corn Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The day will come when you'll find yourself looking up at corn stalks which are now taller than you and wondering if the time is right to snap those ears off for tonight's dinner. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9140/how-do-you-know-when-to-harvest-sweet-corn Tue, 15 Jun 2010 21:16:50 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9085/let-worms-till-your-garden-beds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9085/let-worms-till-your-garden-beds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I was chatting today about composting with a dear gardening friend when the subject of tilling came up... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9085/let-worms-till-your-garden-beds Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:03:21 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9079/the-benefits-of-raised-garden-beds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9079/the-benefits-of-raised-garden-beds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you've never grown vegetables in raised beds before, I promise that once you do, you'll be spoiled for the rest of your gardening life. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9079/the-benefits-of-raised-garden-beds Thu, 10 Jun 2010 22:39:08 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9049/another-improved-meyer-lemon-tree-in-suburbia http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9049/another-improved-meyer-lemon-tree-in-suburbia Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
While I'm not a masterful fruit grower, I manage to successfully harvest the ones in my yard. And this year, suburbia has one more Improved Meyer lemon tree. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/9049/another-improved-meyer-lemon-tree-in-suburbia Fri, 04 Jun 2010 01:51:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8977/make-room-for-moon-and-stars-and-golden-midget-watermelon http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8977/make-room-for-moon-and-stars-and-golden-midget-watermelon Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
These are the two heirloom watermelons in my garden this year. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8977/make-room-for-moon-and-stars-and-golden-midget-watermelon Mon, 31 May 2010 14:16:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8952/how-do-you-choose-which-tomato-varieties-to-grow http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8952/how-do-you-choose-which-tomato-varieties-to-grow Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
So many heirloom tomatoes; so little space. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8952/how-do-you-choose-which-tomato-varieties-to-grow Tue, 25 May 2010 22:39:53 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8926/releasing-ladybugs-into-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8926/releasing-ladybugs-into-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The idea is too keep them in the fridge for a short amount of time, not banish them to Siberia. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8926/releasing-ladybugs-into-the-garden Wed, 19 May 2010 15:30:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8880/organic-fertilizer-sources-for-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8880/organic-fertilizer-sources-for-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Here's a list of some organic fertilizers that you may want to have on hand. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8880/organic-fertilizer-sources-for-the-garden Sat, 15 May 2010 15:33:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8852/what-does-npk-mean http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8852/what-does-npk-mean Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Here's the short answer. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8852/what-does-npk-mean Fri, 14 May 2010 00:27:39 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8850/controlling-weeds-organically http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8850/controlling-weeds-organically Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
While I've heard it's an effective method, I've also heard that it won't kill the weed's roots. For me, that's a deal breaker. The reason why I haven't given this mixture a shot is that I don't see the point if I can't be sure that I've snuffed them out entirely. But then I'm lazy like that. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8850/controlling-weeds-organically Wed, 05 May 2010 20:57:38 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8802/plant-a-row-for-the-hungry-by-growing-extra-vegetables http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8802/plant-a-row-for-the-hungry-by-growing-extra-vegetables Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I rarely put on my serious voice here at Vegetable Gardener, but this is really, super-duper important. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8802/plant-a-row-for-the-hungry-by-growing-extra-vegetables Sat, 01 May 2010 22:01:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8778/sweet-bay-laurus-nobilis-the-herb-of-frankenstein http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8778/sweet-bay-laurus-nobilis-the-herb-of-frankenstein Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Truth be told, I would still describe its attitude as mild-mannered, but in a baby Godzilla sort of way. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8778/sweet-bay-laurus-nobilis-the-herb-of-frankenstein Wed, 28 Apr 2010 18:26:50 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8758/want-to-trade-veggies http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8758/want-to-trade-veggies Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Some gardeners grow 50 varieties of tomatoes, and some grow top notch green beans. Hey, we all have our gifts. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8758/want-to-trade-veggies Thu, 22 Apr 2010 12:21:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8693/grow-heirloom-peas-this-spring http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8693/grow-heirloom-peas-this-spring Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Peas are one crop that no spring garden should be without. They're one of the oldest cultivated vegetables as there's been evidence of peas found throughout Egypt, Europe, Asia and amazingly, among the ruins of Troy. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8693/grow-heirloom-peas-this-spring Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:33:13 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8673/kale-the-aristocrat-of-vegetables http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8673/kale-the-aristocrat-of-vegetables Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You'll never catch Kale tooting its own horn. Kale carries itself with so much quiet class, that you may not have even noticed it in a vegetable garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8673/kale-the-aristocrat-of-vegetables Sat, 17 Apr 2010 16:40:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8665/tips-for-small-vegetable-beds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8665/tips-for-small-vegetable-beds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
One thing is for sure, nothing is more delightful than a small garden bed packed with gorgeous produce. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8665/tips-for-small-vegetable-beds Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:19:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8614/what-causes-bitter-cucumbers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8614/what-causes-bitter-cucumbers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Even if you apologize to them and promise never to miss another watering - it may already be too late. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8614/what-causes-bitter-cucumbers Fri, 09 Apr 2010 22:51:28 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8609/why-my-lettuce-is-in-a-hanging-basket http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8609/why-my-lettuce-is-in-a-hanging-basket Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
So, we decided to do what any born and bred suburbanite would do; transplant the surviving lettuce into containers disguised as decorative planters - complete with flowers. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8609/why-my-lettuce-is-in-a-hanging-basket Wed, 31 Mar 2010 19:48:05 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8529/why-you-should-have-radishes-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8529/why-you-should-have-radishes-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You know what I like about growing radishes? They're an instant gratification veggie. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8529/why-you-should-have-radishes-in-your-garden Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:31:39 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8517/newspaper-mulch-the-cheap-organic-weed-barrier http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8517/newspaper-mulch-the-cheap-organic-weed-barrier Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I can't  believe how handy newspaper is in the garden. I use it for bedding in my worm bins, as extra carbon for my compost pile, and as a weed barrier for my garden beds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8517/newspaper-mulch-the-cheap-organic-weed-barrier Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:22:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8500/lettuce-in-the-spring-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8500/lettuce-in-the-spring-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I think it's time to get my lettuces into the garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8500/lettuce-in-the-spring-garden Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:12:19 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8433/help-pollinate-your-tomato-plants http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8433/help-pollinate-your-tomato-plants Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This is the easiest hand-pollinating you'll ever do. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8433/help-pollinate-your-tomato-plants Sat, 13 Mar 2010 19:48:36 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8342/chives-are-a-must-have-in-the-kitchen-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8342/chives-are-a-must-have-in-the-kitchen-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I'm always looking for more ways to seduce the good guys to my garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8342/chives-are-a-must-have-in-the-kitchen-garden Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:30:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8313/vegetables-with-fun-names-for-childrens-gardens http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8313/vegetables-with-fun-names-for-childrens-gardens Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Let your kids plant Green Zebras, or Dragon's Tongues, or Painted Ponies. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8313/vegetables-with-fun-names-for-childrens-gardens Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:42:52 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8301/a-gopher-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8301/a-gopher-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
After watching these gardeners try every back-breaking, mind-numbing thing they could think of to protect their own, I've decided to throw in the towel before I ever break a sweat. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8301/a-gopher-in-your-garden Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:47:45 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8283/blueberries-as-edible-landscaping http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8283/blueberries-as-edible-landscaping Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I mean, there's like a kazillion ways to go with this gardening thing. So many plants; so little time and all that. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8283/blueberries-as-edible-landscaping Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:41:55 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8275/home-grown-potatoes http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8275/home-grown-potatoes Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
My fellow gardeners we are looking March square in the eye and I, for one, am getting itchy. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8275/home-grown-potatoes Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:56:48 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8240/grow-your-vegetables-vertically http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8240/grow-your-vegetables-vertically Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It's easy to forget about some prime growing real estate that's right before your eyes. We gardeners are usually busy looking at the horizon for growing room. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8240/grow-your-vegetables-vertically Sun, 21 Feb 2010 20:08:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8202/how-much-space-do-you-need-for-a-vegetable-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8202/how-much-space-do-you-need-for-a-vegetable-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Not much. One thing is for sure, you absolutely do not need what is referred to as "land" to plant a vegetable garden. Not even close. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8202/how-much-space-do-you-need-for-a-vegetable-garden Sun, 14 Feb 2010 21:46:46 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8161/what-is-a-food-desert http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8161/what-is-a-food-desert Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It may have never have crossed your mind that some cities don't have grocery stores. They have "convenience stores" - and that's not the same thing at all. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8161/what-is-a-food-desert Sat, 13 Feb 2010 23:23:51 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8156/rabbit-manure-in-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8156/rabbit-manure-in-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Anyone who comes within a few yards of my garden is forced to discuss rabbit poop and its many gardening benefits - whether they want to or not. I'm determined to spread the bunny-gospel. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8156/rabbit-manure-in-the-garden Sun, 07 Feb 2010 18:39:41 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8107/diatomaceous-earth-as-non-toxic-ant-killer http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8107/diatomaceous-earth-as-non-toxic-ant-killer Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Have they invaded you yet? Those million-line-soldiers that cover your floor, counters, and cat food? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8107/diatomaceous-earth-as-non-toxic-ant-killer Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:04:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8102/how-to-grow-cilantro-and-coriander http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8102/how-to-grow-cilantro-and-coriander Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Cilantro (Chinese parsley) may resemble its namesake, but it's not the wall flower that parsley is in the garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8102/how-to-grow-cilantro-and-coriander Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:36:54 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8062/broccoli-rabe-the-other-broccoli http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8062/broccoli-rabe-the-other-broccoli Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Watch for this unheralded vegetable in the coming growing season, it's one that's catching on. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8062/broccoli-rabe-the-other-broccoli Sat, 30 Jan 2010 00:12:20 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8055/start-your-compost-pile-this-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8055/start-your-compost-pile-this-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Those gardeners in gentler climates will have things going a little bit faster (and no, it's not unfair because you snow people get tulips). ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8055/start-your-compost-pile-this-winter Thu, 21 Jan 2010 23:51:53 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8018/aglio-e-olio-fried-spaghetti-with-garlic-and-oil http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8018/aglio-e-olio-fried-spaghetti-with-garlic-and-oil Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Don't get cheap on me here; buy the best olive oil that you can afford and use fresh chopped tomatoes. You get extra points if you use heirlooms. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8018/aglio-e-olio-fried-spaghetti-with-garlic-and-oil Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:42:35 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8014/tomato-trivia-your-health-and-george-clooney http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8014/tomato-trivia-your-health-and-george-clooney Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It just so happens, by happy coincidence, all three of these topics actually intersect; at least in this post. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/8014/tomato-trivia-your-health-and-george-clooney Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:54:52 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7953/growing-beautiful-food http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7953/growing-beautiful-food Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Think of growing beautiful food as foreplay to dinner. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7953/growing-beautiful-food Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:35:48 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7939/growing-avocados http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7939/growing-avocados Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you just happen to live in zones 9-11, consider growing some delicious avocados (Persea americana). Not only are they tasty, but they offer nutritional value for your heart and eyes. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7939/growing-avocados Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:50:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7914/basic-gardening-tools-101 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7914/basic-gardening-tools-101 Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If I had to wear gloves (like if a doctor said I would die a horrible death if I didn’t) I would chose those edgy gloves that fit like a second layer of skin. They come in colors that make your girlish heart sing and your hands can at least feel something. Kinda. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7914/basic-gardening-tools-101 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 12:23:57 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7856/start-keeping-a-garden-journal-today http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7856/start-keeping-a-garden-journal-today Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
There's one place where I documented in brown pencil that I planted "Mammoth" sunflowers. A few months later in red ink the section is crossed out with one line and it reads, "lost to tragedy". ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7856/start-keeping-a-garden-journal-today Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:41:06 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7850/southern-exposure-seed-exchange-saving-the-past-for-the-future http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7850/southern-exposure-seed-exchange-saving-the-past-for-the-future Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The Southern Exposure Seed Exchange is another catalog I wait for with bated breath. Like many of the seed companies I adore, they specialize in open-pollinated (mostly heirloom) seeds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7850/southern-exposure-seed-exchange-saving-the-past-for-the-future Mon, 28 Dec 2009 22:04:15 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7841/determining-your-soil-type http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7841/determining-your-soil-type Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Soil "type" is different than obtaining the specifics about minerals and nutrients found in individual soils through soil "testing". Soil type refers to the physical structure and texture of soil. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7841/determining-your-soil-type Sun, 20 Dec 2009 23:10:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7810/13-smart-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-you-start-a-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7810/13-smart-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-you-start-a-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Before you buy the jean overalls and have a dump truck of manure dropped on your driveway, it's worth it to take a day or so to think about your gardening goals. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7810/13-smart-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-you-start-a-garden Sat, 19 Dec 2009 22:40:33 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7808/the-advantages-of-growing-backyard-produce http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7808/the-advantages-of-growing-backyard-produce Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The best reason to grow your own vegetables is because you can control what goes onto and into your food; plus produce doesn't get any fresher then traveling 24 feet from the garden to the kitchen. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7808/the-advantages-of-growing-backyard-produce Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:05:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7787/ever-seen-a-baker-creek-heirloom-seeds-catalog http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7787/ever-seen-a-baker-creek-heirloom-seeds-catalog Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you can't remember, then I'm certain that you haven't. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds has hands-down the most fantastic collection of vegetable pictures I've ever seen in anywhere - much less in a catalog. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7787/ever-seen-a-baker-creek-heirloom-seeds-catalog Sun, 06 Dec 2009 16:53:22 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7715/armchair-gardening-redux http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7715/armchair-gardening-redux Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I know paper catalogs don't sound very earth-friendly. But armchair gardening is an old school practice grounded in the tactile experience. Hey, I didn't make the rules. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7715/armchair-gardening-redux Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:52:03 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7710/save-recycled-containers-for-starting-spring-seeds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7710/save-recycled-containers-for-starting-spring-seeds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
We're going to focus on two things here. The first one is saving money on a required gardening practice - seed starting. The second one is ignoring the fact that we're heading straight for deep winter and instead, thinking about spring. We're going to deny that we have have months on end of cold weather and sleeping plants. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7710/save-recycled-containers-for-starting-spring-seeds Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7609/discover-scented-herbs http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7609/discover-scented-herbs Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Even if someone wanted to decline taking a whiff, I don't think they dared risk it while facing the crazed look in my eyes. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7609/discover-scented-herbs Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:52:11 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7612/do-it-yourself-greenhouse-insulation http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7612/do-it-yourself-greenhouse-insulation Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I've gone on and on about ideas for heating small greenhouses, but I want to share another idea for cheap insulation. Bubble wrap. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7612/do-it-yourself-greenhouse-insulation Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:06:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7601/why-you-want-redworms-and-earthworms-nightcrawlers-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7601/why-you-want-redworms-and-earthworms-nightcrawlers-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I like being a worm farmer. Like my fondness for rabbit poop, I take great pride in the rich nutrients they produce for my garden. These are natural talents we humans can't begin to duplicate. Our poop just isn't that great. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7601/why-you-want-redworms-and-earthworms-nightcrawlers-in-your-garden Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:03:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7564/plant-and-harvest-broccoli-this-winter-and-the-choppin-broccoli-song http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7564/plant-and-harvest-broccoli-this-winter-and-the-choppin-broccoli-song Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Many gardeners started their broccoli seeds several weeks ago. However, I was slow on the up-take this year and didn't start any seeds myself. I was so slow, in fact, that instead of getting to carefully choose my broccoli variety, I had had to pick up whatever was available at the nursery. Works for me; beggars can't be choosers. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7564/plant-and-harvest-broccoli-this-winter-and-the-choppin-broccoli-song Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:37:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7518/harvest-carrots-faster-in-any-type-of-soil http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7518/harvest-carrots-faster-in-any-type-of-soil Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene (converted to vitamin A in the body), Vitamins K with traces of C, B, and E. They’re a good source for potassium and manganese, as well. Whose body couldn't use that nutrition for the winter? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7518/harvest-carrots-faster-in-any-type-of-soil Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:34:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7472/my-fall-garden-to-do-list http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7472/my-fall-garden-to-do-list Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This is the beginning of the revamping and reorganizing season. It doesn't feel as fun as the active growing season, but it's a time for stepping back and taking stock. Here's some of the things I have on my list for the month of November. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7472/my-fall-garden-to-do-list Sun, 01 Nov 2009 11:08:26 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7399/growing-and-harvesting-winter-lettuce http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7399/growing-and-harvesting-winter-lettuce Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
While lettuces are predominately a cool-weather crop, there are summer varieties available that don't disappoint. They're so easy to plant, grow, and harvest that I try to have lettuces in my garden every season. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7399/growing-and-harvesting-winter-lettuce Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:57:04 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7354/cool-weather-lettuce-for-fall-and-winter-gardens http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7354/cool-weather-lettuce-for-fall-and-winter-gardens Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Any gardeners out there planning on having some home-grown lettuce on the Christmas dinner table? What varieties are you planting and where the heck are you? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7354/cool-weather-lettuce-for-fall-and-winter-gardens Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:15:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7276/grow-herbs-indoors-this-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7276/grow-herbs-indoors-this-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Some gardeners grow a fall garden outdoors, some plant an eclectic group of flowers and veggies in a heated greenhouse, and others plant an herb garden indoors. Then there are those of us die-hards that practice all of the above in determined to feed the plant addiction year-round. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7276/grow-herbs-indoors-this-winter Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:07:39 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7258/whats-the-best-way-to-heat-a-small-greenhouse http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7258/whats-the-best-way-to-heat-a-small-greenhouse Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
On a more practical note while I do want to keep the greenhouse toasty inside, I'm also interested in keeping my electric bill down to a manageable size. Which isn't as simple as it sounds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7258/whats-the-best-way-to-heat-a-small-greenhouse Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:35:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7163/the-best-of-the-fall-harvest-apples http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7163/the-best-of-the-fall-harvest-apples Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You just can't get the whole pie baking experience from the inside of a box on the freezer isle. No, the true affair of pie baking is an event. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7163/the-best-of-the-fall-harvest-apples Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:51:25 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7128/spiders-in-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7128/spiders-in-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Hollywood and Halloween have done nothing for the reputation of spiders (not to mention bats) and their true value they bring to the natural world. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7128/spiders-in-the-garden Sun, 04 Oct 2009 18:54:51 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7072/why-grow-your-own-food http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7072/why-grow-your-own-food Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Suburban and urban farming is being accomplished successfully in backyards everywhere. And it is being done with high yields on very little land. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7072/why-grow-your-own-food Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:22:03 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7037/how-to-use-integrated-pest-management-ipm http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7037/how-to-use-integrated-pest-management-ipm Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Utilizing the method of Integrated Pest Management how I garden - period. I'm probably going to get strung up by the organic gardening police for that admission; but before you set the torch afire let me say this. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7037/how-to-use-integrated-pest-management-ipm Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:27:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7019/what-is-sustainable-gardening http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7019/what-is-sustainable-gardening Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
“Sustainable gardening” is a cool term if I've ever heard one. It sounds edgy in an incredibly responsible sort of way. In suburban farmer (that would be me) speak it’s: “Do no evil.” ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/7019/what-is-sustainable-gardening Wed, 23 Sep 2009 01:18:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6948/leaf-mold-as-a-soil-conditioner http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6948/leaf-mold-as-a-soil-conditioner Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Leaf mold by itself is pretty close to pure humus and like compost, smells like the forest floor. Probably because it is the forest floor. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6948/leaf-mold-as-a-soil-conditioner Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:45:30 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6914/grasscycle-compost-and-mulch-with-grass-clippings http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6914/grasscycle-compost-and-mulch-with-grass-clippings Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I think the average homeowner over looks the many joys of grass clippings. This stuff is a valuable resource with all the versatility of duct tape. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6914/grasscycle-compost-and-mulch-with-grass-clippings Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:30:33 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6902/replacing-some-suburban-front-lawn http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6902/replacing-some-suburban-front-lawn Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It's no secret that suburbia is known for it's cookie-cutter foundation plantings and grand expansions of perfectly coiffed grass. Although, I have seen some fabulous yard make-overs where they've used plants that have made me almost slam into the car in front of me. But, I digress. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6902/replacing-some-suburban-front-lawn Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:16:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6877/grow-herbs-in-containers-for-the-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6877/grow-herbs-in-containers-for-the-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Fall is the time of year that I start getting concerned for my basil. I'm pretty lousy at calculating how much longer I'll be able to harvest before the frost nails it. Mother Nature has her own calendar no matter where we mark our frost dates. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6877/grow-herbs-in-containers-for-the-winter Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:30:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6874/start-a-new-garden-bed-with-a-compost-sandwich http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6874/start-a-new-garden-bed-with-a-compost-sandwich Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It's never too early to think about the next major planting season as far as I'm concerned. But that could be because at my age, six months isn't even close to the vicinity of long-term. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6874/start-a-new-garden-bed-with-a-compost-sandwich Sun, 06 Sep 2009 19:55:13 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6841/its-fall-garden-cleanup-time http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6841/its-fall-garden-cleanup-time Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I know we're still harvesting tomatoes, zucchini, fruit and the like but the weather and light change are hinting that another season is at an end. Forewarned is forearmed, am I right? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6841/its-fall-garden-cleanup-time Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:38:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6774/grow-sprouts-for-the-perfect-indoor-crop http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6774/grow-sprouts-for-the-perfect-indoor-crop Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Whether you're new to gardening, a budding homesteader, or a die-hard farmer there's no need to wait for nice weather to grow food crops - grow sprouts! ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6774/grow-sprouts-for-the-perfect-indoor-crop Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:07:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6731/roast-your-own-sunflower-seeds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6731/roast-your-own-sunflower-seeds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Here's how to harvest and roast your own sunflower seeds from your garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6731/roast-your-own-sunflower-seeds Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:33:55 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6715/kids-can-make-bird-feeders-out-of-sunflower-heads http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6715/kids-can-make-bird-feeders-out-of-sunflower-heads Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Sunflowers not only attract pollinating insects while they're blooming, but at season's end they become an excellent food source for wild birds. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6715/kids-can-make-bird-feeders-out-of-sunflower-heads Sat, 22 Aug 2009 23:56:24 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6675/plant-a-green-manure-or-a-cover-crop-this-fall http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6675/plant-a-green-manure-or-a-cover-crop-this-fall Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
My perception of cover crops and green manures is they're right in line with compost bins, vermicomposting, grasscycling, and even mulch - they're all a form of composting. In other words, they're all about turning natural resources back into nature. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6675/plant-a-green-manure-or-a-cover-crop-this-fall Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:18:51 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6634/grow-a-sunflower-house-for-kids http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6634/grow-a-sunflower-house-for-kids Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Don't let the kids keep the magic for themselves. When the morning glories begin blooming, get into that sunflower house, lie on your back and admire the glowing blue sky that you and your kids planted. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6634/grow-a-sunflower-house-for-kids Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:02:49 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6537/peas-the-cold-weather-legume http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6537/peas-the-cold-weather-legume Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Weren't we just talking about summer vegetables? Don't freak out on me, we still have plenty of lovely weather left this season and there all the summer lovelies that need harvesting for weeks yet. But, it's always nice to get a little jump on the coming planting season and at least begin to think about what we'd like to see in our fall and winter gardens. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6537/peas-the-cold-weather-legume Mon, 10 Aug 2009 06:20:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6505/growing-plants-in-greenhouses http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6505/growing-plants-in-greenhouses Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
For one, I live in Northern California where the temps can really get down there but face it, we're not Minnesota. Don't get me wrong, I have lost my share of plants due of lack of vacancies in my house for overwintering plants. I thought I'd give them gave them a shot at winter life in the greenhouse. Try not to be shocked, it's not the first time I've been wrong. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6505/growing-plants-in-greenhouses Fri, 07 Aug 2009 01:00:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6466/grow-black-tea-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6466/grow-black-tea-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you're going to have a caffeine addiction, getting the "wake up" into your blood stream by way of black tea just may be the most respectable way. According to the Order of Caffeine Addicts in America (OCAA), caffeine by way of tea is considered to be one of the classiest addictions among the whole substance-dependency lineup. You can look that up or you can just trust a group that bears the motto, "Proud to be; wired with tea." ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6466/grow-black-tea-in-your-garden Sat, 01 Aug 2009 20:46:41 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6399/grow-food-in-your-landscape http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6399/grow-food-in-your-landscape Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
"I wish I could have a vegetable garden, but we just don't have the space and everything is landscaped...sooo." I saw what looked like remorse in her eyes. Cynical me wasn't buying it. It's sad really, that people honestly think they can escape me that easily. It's so not gonna happen. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6399/grow-food-in-your-landscape Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:12:27 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6350/love-artichokes-thank-the-italians http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6350/love-artichokes-thank-the-italians Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Personally, anything to do with Italy is utterly fascinating partly because I'm Italian and partly because I've seen "Under the Tuscan Sun" several times. It doesn't really matter because everyone knows no one does it better than Italy when it comes to food and cars. Man, what Italians do for cars, am I right? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6350/love-artichokes-thank-the-italians Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:52:30 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6309/mix-it-up-and-grow-mesclun http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6309/mix-it-up-and-grow-mesclun Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It's just short of a felony to smother mesclun with anything rich or creamy. It's like pulling those tags off of pillows (just know you've been warned). My favorite dressings on these babies are the lighters ones. Raspberry or cranberry vinaigrette are tops on these flavorful salads - or try a lemon vinaigrette. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6309/mix-it-up-and-grow-mesclun Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:42:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6276/pole-beans-versus-bush-beans http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6276/pole-beans-versus-bush-beans Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Am I starting them too early? Watering them too much? Too little? Not performing the right Voo-Doo ritual standing naked over them during a full moon? Because if that's what it takes, I assure you, I've done far more for much less. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6276/pole-beans-versus-bush-beans Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:30:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6213/how-to-grow-sweet-watermelons http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6213/how-to-grow-sweet-watermelons Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I don't remember when the law started declaring the differences between fruits and veggies, but the law is the law. You can always continue to call watermelon a fruit in the privacy of your own home (I think). ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6213/how-to-grow-sweet-watermelons Wed, 15 Jul 2009 17:39:28 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5841/best-weed-cultivator-the-hoe-of-death http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5841/best-weed-cultivator-the-hoe-of-death Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Weeds o' mine, don't ask for whom the hoe comes...it comes for thee. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5841/best-weed-cultivator-the-hoe-of-death Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:09:07 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6164/hoyas-as-indoor-and-outdoor-plants http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6164/hoyas-as-indoor-and-outdoor-plants Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Most hummingbirds will end up in a 12 step program after discovering them on your back porch. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6164/hoyas-as-indoor-and-outdoor-plants Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:32:08 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6146/fragrant-night-blooming-plants http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6146/fragrant-night-blooming-plants Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Our family has been spending many nights enjoying summer evenings on the patio; sometimes eating dinner and sometimes just unwinding at the end of the day. Summer is the season of outdoor evenings. Which is why I'm on a mission to plant more fragrant night blooming plants. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/6146/fragrant-night-blooming-plants Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:10:55 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5996/tool-housing-and-husbandry http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5996/tool-housing-and-husbandry Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
The tool house is for containment of proper gardening tools, not your Halloween decorations, your college camp stove or your unused breast pump. Take good care of your gardening tools, and they will take good care of your garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5996/tool-housing-and-husbandry Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:07:41 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5984/gardening-tools-on-the-cheap http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5984/gardening-tools-on-the-cheap Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
If you’re like me, every now and again you hear the siren call of new gardening tools. If you’re like me, you take a look at the household account and figure out just how much you can skim off of the grocery money without sending up red flags. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5984/gardening-tools-on-the-cheap Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:27:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5978/hand-pollination-or-sex-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5978/hand-pollination-or-sex-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Someone has to do it. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5978/hand-pollination-or-sex-in-your-garden Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:27:50 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5971/the-gardening-month-of-june http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5971/the-gardening-month-of-june Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I love June. In June all things are possible in the garden. The radishes are ready to harvest, and I’ve already pulled a couple of tomatoes off the vine. I’m not even close to the point in the summer when I wonder if, once again, I’ve planted too many juicy varieties. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5971/the-gardening-month-of-june Sat, 20 Jun 2009 13:42:58 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5949/plant-a-garden-theme-with-herbs http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5949/plant-a-garden-theme-with-herbs Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Herbs may not have showy flowers like perennials and annuals, so using them to create a theme garden is not only a good way to explore unusual herbs and their uses; it’s the perfect way to show your other special interests. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5949/plant-a-garden-theme-with-herbs Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:29:12 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5940/nasturtiums-as-food-and-companion-plants http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5940/nasturtiums-as-food-and-companion-plants Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I’ve always loved garden nasturtiums in my flower beds. Oh, I know they’re touted as ordinary and flowers that are easy to grow often get a pretentious sniff. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5940/nasturtiums-as-food-and-companion-plants Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:16:42 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5848/the-benefits-of-joining-a-community-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5848/the-benefits-of-joining-a-community-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
One of the most endearing things about these gardens aside from the diversity of food and flowers is the fact that the majority of gardens are organic which means you’ll see butterflies and birds galore enjoying the gardens right along with you. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5848/the-benefits-of-joining-a-community-garden Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:34:38 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5809/tomato-plants-determinate-indeterminate-and-vffnta http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5809/tomato-plants-determinate-indeterminate-and-vffnta Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Choosing tomato plants isn’t necessarily tricky. Still, most people only think of two things when they consider purchasing tomato plants for their home garden. They ask themselves what size (regular or cherry)? Next, they decide how many plants to buy and that’s it. There are a couple of other factors that may guide you in how to decide what tomato plant varieties to choose. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5809/tomato-plants-determinate-indeterminate-and-vffnta Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:31:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5756/columnar-apple-trees-for-suburban-yards http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5756/columnar-apple-trees-for-suburban-yards Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
These micro-trees will produce normal-sized apples the first year you plant them! God bless the experimenters. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5756/columnar-apple-trees-for-suburban-yards Wed, 27 May 2009 01:15:31 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5540/thinning-vegetable-seedlings http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5540/thinning-vegetable-seedlings Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
All of your seed planting efforts have come to fruition and you are finally witnessing your success as little seedlings pop through the soil and reach for the sky. They’re tiny things and still so fragile. You hover over them as if they were toddlers and with watering can in hand, whisper good morning as you gently shower them. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5540/thinning-vegetable-seedlings Mon, 25 May 2009 23:50:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5474/grow-everlastings-for-dried-flowers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5474/grow-everlastings-for-dried-flowers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Just when you thought the gardening season couldn't last forever, along comes a group of flowers romantically dubbed "everlastings”. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5474/grow-everlastings-for-dried-flowers Thu, 21 May 2009 16:13:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5452/12-natural-bee-sting-remedies http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5452/12-natural-bee-sting-remedies Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
These natural bee sting treatments will help remove the itching, swelling, and pain associated with bee stings. Try one the next time you get stung and let us know what works for you. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5452/12-natural-bee-sting-remedies Sat, 16 May 2009 20:51:09 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5376/how-to-make-fruit-water http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5376/how-to-make-fruit-water Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This party drink isn't your average glass of water. It's water wearing a prom dress. Serving fruit water at your next party or barbecue is refreshing, healthy, and elegant. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5376/how-to-make-fruit-water Fri, 15 May 2009 00:14:11 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5346/buying-produce-at-farmers-markets http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5346/buying-produce-at-farmers-markets Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I love farmer’s markets. There’s something so authentic and Old World about them. While I’m loitering around at one, I can’t think of any other place I’d rather be and I’d like to give you some great reasons to loiter around at one, too. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5346/buying-produce-at-farmers-markets Sun, 10 May 2009 02:25:17 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5235/meet-the-aloe-vera-plant-aloe-barbadensis http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5235/meet-the-aloe-vera-plant-aloe-barbadensis Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
It's said that Cleopatra claimed aloe vera as one of her greatest beauty secrets. Who am I to argue with Cleopatra? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5235/meet-the-aloe-vera-plant-aloe-barbadensis Tue, 05 May 2009 20:32:52 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5183/suburban-backyard-chickens http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5183/suburban-backyard-chickens Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
One can only have so many animals in a suburban backyard and suburbia isn’t overly conducive to farm animals…or is it? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5183/suburban-backyard-chickens Sat, 25 Apr 2009 16:39:48 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5074/grow-birdhouse-gourds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5074/grow-birdhouse-gourds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
While you're planting food and flowers in your garden, why not plant a garden craft, as well? Birdhouse gourds or bottle gourds are one of the thick-skinned gourds that are mainly grown for crafts or decoration. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5074/grow-birdhouse-gourds Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:18:44 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5048/garlic-as-an-herbal-medicine http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5048/garlic-as-an-herbal-medicine Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Garlic has a more practical side that you may not be aware of and it just might be the information you need to push you over the proverbial edge to plant some in your garden this year. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5048/garlic-as-an-herbal-medicine Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:01:33 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5008/organic-and-inorganic-mulches-in-the-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5008/organic-and-inorganic-mulches-in-the-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Whether you choose organic or inorganic mulch depends on what your growing and personal preference. But all mulches can be counted on for water retention and as weed-suppressors. Less weeding is, quite frankly, what perked my interest in mulches to begin with. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/5008/organic-and-inorganic-mulches-in-the-garden Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:04:16 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4924/strawberry-growing-basics http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4924/strawberry-growing-basics Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
After years of attempting to force my palate to conform to the masses, I finally gave up trying to understand why no one else was talking about the little seeds that became embedded in my molars. I realized that maybe the world was silently cringing just like me to get to the sweet nectar of the strawberry. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4924/strawberry-growing-basics Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:45:32 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4896/vegetable-gardens-for-children http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4896/vegetable-gardens-for-children Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
For more years of my life than not, I’ve been raising children. My husband and I have four kids and one sugar baby – I might as well be a Pez dispenser. I haven’t even managed to keep my children out of my bathroom, much less my gardens. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4896/vegetable-gardens-for-children Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:26:56 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4715/the-definition-of-companion-planting http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4715/the-definition-of-companion-planting Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Companion planting by definition is simply any plant that is purposefully planted next to another to enhance growth, beauty or flavor. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4715/the-definition-of-companion-planting Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:12:58 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4695/meet-the-magnificent-marigold http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4695/meet-the-magnificent-marigold Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Nature does the coolest things. How fantastic that this simple-to-grow flower can also be one of the most adaptable, versatile and incredibly useful plants anywhere? ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4695/meet-the-magnificent-marigold Fri, 27 Mar 2009 16:58:22 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4635/bring-on-the-beneficial-insects http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4635/bring-on-the-beneficial-insects Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Not all insects are created equal. Some bugs, such as aphids and snails, think of your garden plants as dinner - they're the bad guys; the enemy. The other guys are known as the “beneficial insects,” and they are your cavalry. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4635/bring-on-the-beneficial-insects Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:32:23 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4568/worm-farming http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4568/worm-farming Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Here's some pictures of our worms and their homes. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4568/worm-farming Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:45:03 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4563/let-worms-compost-your-kitchen-scraps http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4563/let-worms-compost-your-kitchen-scraps Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Worm composting (vermicomposting) has to be one of my favorite gardening topics in the world. There are so many good reasons to keep red wigglers in the kitchen or by the back door, munching and crunching on your kitchen scraps that it’s hard to know where to begin. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4563/let-worms-compost-your-kitchen-scraps Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:01:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4529/controlling-aphids-in-your-garden http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4529/controlling-aphids-in-your-garden Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Aphids are those little pear-shaped gals that congregate around the undersides of leaves or the terminal buds on your rose bushes. You won’t be bothered by them in numbers of two or three, but when the situation resembles a Rolling Stones concert – that’s when you’ll sit up and take notice. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4529/controlling-aphids-in-your-garden Mon, 16 Mar 2009 19:22:10 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4400/the-benefits-of-growing-potatoes-in-containers http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4400/the-benefits-of-growing-potatoes-in-containers Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
There's any number of reasons that we gardeners might prefer to grow things up as opposed to out. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4400/the-benefits-of-growing-potatoes-in-containers Sat, 14 Mar 2009 14:37:01 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4398/soil-bag-planting http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4398/soil-bag-planting Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This is the fastest planting method in town. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4398/soil-bag-planting Sat, 14 Mar 2009 14:10:08 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4396/try-soil-bag-planting-for-no-dig-beds http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4396/try-soil-bag-planting-for-no-dig-beds Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Is anyone out there in a hurry? Are you working three jobs, have seven children, or on your way to a fire? This no-dig planting method is the fastest way to a vegetable garden – a soil bag can... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4396/try-soil-bag-planting-for-no-dig-beds Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:05:16 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4291/friendly-blue-mason-bees-are-perfect-pollinators http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4291/friendly-blue-mason-bees-are-perfect-pollinators Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
You'll want to encourage these docile, no-sting, super pollinators into your garden. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4291/friendly-blue-mason-bees-are-perfect-pollinators Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:58:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4207/how-to-start-tomato-plants-from-cuttings http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4207/how-to-start-tomato-plants-from-cuttings Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Starting tomato plants from cuttings is a fast and easy project that even beginners can do blindfolded. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4207/how-to-start-tomato-plants-from-cuttings Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:51:59 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4116/our-cold-frame-this-winter http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4116/our-cold-frame-this-winter Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
We've been eating fresh salad this winter! ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4116/our-cold-frame-this-winter Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:30:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4083/extend-the-seasons-with-a-cold-frame http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4083/extend-the-seasons-with-a-cold-frame Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Cold frames are basically very short greenhouses sans the heat. They are mostly used for extending the season in one direction or the other. They are one of the handiest tools around for helping... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4083/extend-the-seasons-with-a-cold-frame Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:38:22 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3995/how-to-win-the-snail-battle http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3995/how-to-win-the-snail-battle Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
I have been fighting this battle in my gardens for thirty years and have given great effort to abide by the live-and-let-live philosophy. I have tried barriers - which worked fairly well, still more... ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3995/how-to-win-the-snail-battle Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:26:27 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3903/felcos http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3903/felcos Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Felcos ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3903/felcos Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:44:16 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3887/organic-butterhead-lettuce http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3887/organic-butterhead-lettuce Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Organic means 100% food ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3887/organic-butterhead-lettuce Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:42:13 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3885/carrots http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3885/carrots Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
Organic carrots ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3885/carrots Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:15:25 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3881/the-enemy http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3881/the-enemy Posted by ChrisMcLaughlin
This is the evil snail. ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/3881/the-enemy Wed, 28 Feb 2007 12:05:00 -0500 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13351/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13351/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment ChrisMcLaughlin
jjj ]]> http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/13351/vermicompost-as-a-soil-amendment