tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65466672024-03-12T20:58:46.594-07:00The Garden's GiftAn informational website dedicated to the zen of gardeningNancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.comBlogger180125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-8715041604915723512015-09-25T13:40:00.002-07:002015-09-25T13:45:54.306-07:00I'm back...sort ofWell, it's been a few years since I've written anything, actually it's been 7 years. Much has happened during that time. I lost my Dad in 2008 and my Mom in 2012. And we started a non-profit for people and their pets, <a href="http://forpawshospice.org/" target="_blank">For Paws Hospice</a>, based on our experience with hospice care for my parents.<br />
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So, what peaked my interest in coming back to The Gardens Gift? A request came in from Jon Leger asking to have his site linked to my links page. It's all about <a href="http://cabbageroses.net/" target="_blank">cabbage roses</a> and offers some good how to grow tips. The pictures are gorgeous and brought back memories of the rose beds my Mom had when I was a kid. She was crazy over her roses and had several flower beds chock full of gorgeous roses of all kinds. I tried, but I never quite got the rose green thumb.<br />
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I'm not sure how frequently you'll hear from me, but this is a good start. Jon, thanks for the encouragement and bringing back some fantastic memories for me. Your wonderful site is now included on my Links page. Happy Gardening.<br />
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<br />Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-77207936839393753872008-07-06T12:53:00.000-07:002008-07-06T13:05:39.422-07:00More linksMore fantastic links for your browsing enjoyment:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.howtodothings.com/home-and-garden/c111-gardening--landscaping.html" target="_blank">How to do things</a> has a gardening and landscaping section with great info on how to grow blueberries, prune tomatoes or creating hanging baskets to name a few. Is that tomatoes or tomatos?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.gardensupermart.com/store/rain-barrels.php" target="_blank">Gardensupermart</a> is now carrying rain barrels and not the usual run-of-the-mill kind normally seen. These are very much like works of art made in Canada. Check these out as well as the other products offered on this site.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-13396793191046468772008-05-23T08:22:00.000-07:002008-05-29T10:09:21.012-07:00Plantopia<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCY85aRt0qVSt5I5akalsibJra5G6zHhGSnBQohdDItNveQin17aaNysGm0AETzfm9A-LK3yXkeTM8Bcs5_GaZkGTAIau9VBxUk8U92DiEhNO1nNCHzh_Is0mKiJU0eZK4B9P6jA/s1600-h/plantopia.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCY85aRt0qVSt5I5akalsibJra5G6zHhGSnBQohdDItNveQin17aaNysGm0AETzfm9A-LK3yXkeTM8Bcs5_GaZkGTAIau9VBxUk8U92DiEhNO1nNCHzh_Is0mKiJU0eZK4B9P6jA/s320/plantopia.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202111543584179618" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.plantopiagifts.com/" target="_blank">Plantopia </a> All natural soaps, bath salts and stationary. Plantopia, Inc. is proud to contribute to the Trees Across America Campaign and is committed to planting one tree every time three bars of their soap are sold. I was lucky enough to come across the owner of Plantopia at a recent Earth Day event. I purchased several of her soaps and I have to tell you they are everything advertised and more. I particularly like the Morning Mint since it smells so refreshing, although my husband prefers Bar None with zero fragrance. Check out their products and, as long as you're buying, get three so another tree can be planted. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-18899367368106962732008-05-19T11:05:00.000-07:002008-05-19T08:05:52.145-07:00More great links<p>With everything that's been going on lately I've been stockpiling emails with some great links. Be sure to go visit when you get a chance - they are all worth the time. </p><br /><ul><br /><li><a href="http://www.lawncareguide.org/" target="_blank">Lawn Care Guide</a>. It's everything lawn related - lawn care, maintenance, mowers and equipment. You can sign up for a monthly lawn maintenance reminder as well as money saving coupons.</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.flowerwindowboxes.com/Home_Page.html" target="_blank">Flower Window Boxes</a>. There's just something about a window box that makes me think of the south. This site offers a nice selection of window boxes that are made of PVC material. They look fantastic and best of all they won't rot away over time. This company will even make them to custom sizes to fit your windows.</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.gardenboutique.co.uk/" target="_blank">Garden Boutique</a>. Located in the UK, this company offers garden attire, pots and window boxes, and "the pretties" - gorgeous garden accessories. Check out the composting bins, and the wildlife attractors.</li><br /><li><a href="http://cdmplanning.hypermart.net/" target="_blank">Clyde's Vegetable Planting Slide Chart</a>. A sliding chart developed to help you learn the best time for planting veggies in your area.</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.composters.com/" target="_blank">GreenCulture</a>. Everything you wanted to know about composting is on this site. They even gave a composter to Oprah for Earth Day. The best part is that all products on their site are made from 100% recycled materials. </li><br /><li><a href="http://www.aquascapeinc.com/" target="_blank">Aquascape Water Gardens</a>. If you've ever considered having a gorgeous healthy pond with fish check them out. Aquascape is located in St. Charles, IL which was recently declared “The Water Garden Capital of the World”!</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.thegiftandgarden.com/" target="_blank">The Gift and Garden Store</a>. A new site offering everything garden related as gifts along with candles and jewelry.</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.circlecfarmsinc.com/" target="_blank">Circle C Farms</a>. Coming back to those lawn lovers, here's a great place to purchase the lawn of your dreams. You can get either turf grass or even ornamental grasses from this Florida company.</li><br /><li><a href="http://www.waterkeeper.org/" target="_blank">Waterkeeper Alliance</a>. This group is dedicated to clean and healthy waterways. They support and encourage gardeners to stop using cypress mulch, the clear-cutting of which destroys the coastal wetland forests. </li></ul>Happy Gardening.<br /><p><br /></p>Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-82858687810613860192008-05-11T13:51:00.000-07:002008-05-11T14:15:18.148-07:00Happy Mother's Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJe_Itn1fX1fp5pMD3Tk4nEuAbiAExlZCOIGo2GIMyG3GOs4b_KcjZXvajNGuXlxAtEwQBo5enVjSqjRIMwXTC9lVXMK99VO7ctAKDpyaZecfQS8zWnWTTmc7eKPgYGmKOjayZw/s1600-h/mom.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJe_Itn1fX1fp5pMD3Tk4nEuAbiAExlZCOIGo2GIMyG3GOs4b_KcjZXvajNGuXlxAtEwQBo5enVjSqjRIMwXTC9lVXMK99VO7ctAKDpyaZecfQS8zWnWTTmc7eKPgYGmKOjayZw/s320/mom.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199231750832342418" /></a><br />Today is Mother's Day. I was wondering frankly if I was going to be able to celebrate this day with my mom after the last few months we've had. My mother had a heart attack. She was just bouncing back when she had a stroke. The harshest words I've ever heard in my life came from her doctor the day after her hospitalization with stroke. "Your mother is dying. It may be within the next few months or the next few years but her body is shutting down." With those words all kinds of thoughts flooded through my brain. She's 87 and all of her siblings have died around this age from heart related ailments. I don't know what it's like not to have my mom around, for good or for bad she's here. What will it be like? I'm getting older and now I must face my own mortality. <br /><br />I had a dream roughly two years ago that she had died. Was my mind telling me to prepare or was it just one of those things that go away when we awake. I've never forgotten the feeling of devastation I experienced in that dream and I know there will be a day I will feel it again for real. So where are we now? My mother is very much alive and well. She has a little loss of memory but still very sharp for her age. I sent her roses for Mother's Day. She called to tell me she had never received long stemmed roses in her entire life - it took her 87 years to get them and she would never ever forget how beautiful they were. You know what else? I took her to church today for the first time in over 6 months. When we walked into church I told her not to worry about all the standing up and sitting down throughout the mass. Although it clearly was a trial for her she did it anyway. When I asked her why her response was, "Because I have to. I have to keep moving."<br /><br />So, we'll see what happens within the next year or two or hopefully many more than that. I pray she proves the doctor wrong for a long time to come. But in the meantime, I still have my mom and we still have Mother's Day every day. <br /><br />Sufficed to say that's why there have been no posts on this blog for several months. I'm not going to promise to write something regularly because I don't know if I will. Right now my mom has my free time and my heart. But I'll write as I can and keep you updated on her progress. Happy Gardening and for every Mom, Happy Mother's Day. You are loved.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-76543792016403614412008-01-05T06:09:00.000-08:002008-01-05T06:19:42.532-08:00Palm trees<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIU3d6OhYlSq3IahjZw94qveKS367Mh2UsAEcitaySwqomEv9dgA9t9a3O1DqxNZI-QlboFF-dfqxD9B3i5-Zao7R_NxyxFOz4B8klrWVGry9S9GvHDo8oEz7jr0UH3OkpxT5kEA/s1600-h/palm.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIU3d6OhYlSq3IahjZw94qveKS367Mh2UsAEcitaySwqomEv9dgA9t9a3O1DqxNZI-QlboFF-dfqxD9B3i5-Zao7R_NxyxFOz4B8klrWVGry9S9GvHDo8oEz7jr0UH3OkpxT5kEA/s320/palm.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5151996938089244690" /></a><br />Interested in all things palm tree? Corey has the website for you. <a href="http://palm-trees.org/" target="_blank">Palm Trees</a> shows you everything you needed to know about palm trees, cycads, bromeliads and other tropical plants. There are pictures to view along with plant care information. You can also purchase palm trees and seeds by clicking on the links at the bottom of the site. There are also several links to visit from Corey's links page, and there's even a forum in which to participate. All great stuff. Go visit when you get the chance. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-82681643465161076332007-12-31T05:59:00.000-08:002007-12-31T07:06:09.195-08:00More new links<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtH7b6rssBIMFIQzixwxTv7AZKyDdSaRFUelzVcCJdYIteZ4cF5ZGqqHiDEW80RCm4_SZvAeJtvcQFka0DTwX2yAUB59eggg4IqeCk5oEMR1XGOiACmZ-D1zxSWAOm6C3AADPBPQ/s1600-h/Forest.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtH7b6rssBIMFIQzixwxTv7AZKyDdSaRFUelzVcCJdYIteZ4cF5ZGqqHiDEW80RCm4_SZvAeJtvcQFka0DTwX2yAUB59eggg4IqeCk5oEMR1XGOiACmZ-D1zxSWAOm6C3AADPBPQ/s320/Forest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150153482291226594" /></a><br /><br />I've been on hiatus lately. It seems like time just sneaked up on me over the last couple of months and I never got around to adding anything to my blogs. I think I've also hit a writing snag that has contributed to the lack of posts. But, since it is the last day of 2007 I thought it only fitting to at least tell everyone about a few new links to visit in the coming year. <ul><li><a href="http://www.gardenoutfitters.com/" target="_blank">Garden Outfitters</a> has everything for your garden from arbors to furniture to sundials. This company is an offshoot of <a href="http://www.outdoorfence.com/" target="_blank">Outdoor Fence Company</a>, in business since 1974. Looks like they are a one stop shop for all of your yard and garden needs.</li><li><a href="http://www.perfectionlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Perfection Landscaping </a>provides a variety of professional landscaping services for residential properties including landscape lighting, irrigation systems, lawn sprinkler system, driveway installation, patio installation, & residential landscape design. Give them a call or visit them online for more information.</li><li><a href="http://www.earthstonestudio.com" target="_blank">Earthstone Studio </a> offers high end natural stone fountains, statues and planters. Their products are beautiful and worth a look.</li><li><a href="http://www.windchimespavilion.com" target="_blank">Wind Chimes Pavillion</a> carries what else? Wind chimes of course. They have a gorgeous variety worth taking a look at. There's nothing like the sound of chimes in the garden breezes.</li><li>Last but not least, <a href="http://www.urbangardenwholesale.com/servlet/StoreFront" target="_blank">Urban Garden Wholesale </a>is dedicated to providing gardeners, growers and plant enthusiasts with gardening supplies. They have lots of products and information for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Visit their website when you get a chance but be sure to put your feet up since you'll be there for awhile.</li></ul> Happy Gardening. I wish everyone a very happy and healthy 2008.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-60436668104100353332007-10-15T08:58:00.000-07:002007-12-31T07:09:37.919-08:00Blog Action Day-My contributionHow does gardening affect environmental conservation? Earth-friendly gardening makes the difference between polluting the air, ground, and water around you and your loved ones including pets and wildlife. How you ask? Here are just a few examples:<br /><br /><br /><li><a href="http://thegardensgift.blogspot.com/2006/05/lets-make-compost.html" target="_blank">Compost</a> - using compost rather than fertilizers add nutrients to your soil without contamination. If you can't build a compost area outside, <a href="http://one-change.com/blog/?p=55" target="_blank">Mindy </a>provides tips on creating a non-smelly version inside.<br /><li>Mulch - using renewable resource mulch protects the eco-system. Rather than <a href="http://suncoast.fnpschapters.org/pdffiles/mulch.pdf" target="_blank">cypress</a> mulch, try <a href="http://www.originalmulchblock.com/products.html" target="_blank">coir</a>. The fibers come from the husk and inside layers of the cocunut. It is free from bacteria, is environmentally friendly and renewable. Other choices include pine straw and the leaves fallen on the ground from your own trees. Mulch keeps weeds under control and preserves moisture limiting water use.<br /><li><a href="http://www.eartheasy.com/grow_nat_pest_cntrl.htm" target="_blank">Natural pest control</a> - prevents leaching of chemicals into the ground and water and eliminates exposure to humans and animals. Mixtures of baking soda and water or soap and water will control bugs such as aphids, mealybugs as well as fungus and powdery mildew. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs will do the same thing.<br /><li><a href="http://www.mge.com/home/appliances/mowers.htm" target="_blank">Lawn mowers</a> - choosing a push reel, cordless or electric mower prevents air pollution and the reliance on petroleum products all the while giving you great exercise.<br /><li><a href="http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard/watercon.html" target="_blank">Limit water use</a> - planting drought tolerant plants and mulching conserves water, protects the environment, and saves you some hard earned dollars.<br /><br />To read many, many more examples of protecting our environment contributed by bloggers around the world, go to <a href="http://blogactionday.org" target="_blank"> Blog Action Day </a>. <br /><br />It's important for all of us. Happy Gardening. </p>Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-41269020195999371532007-10-14T08:18:00.000-07:002007-10-14T08:46:17.029-07:00Speaking of bees<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3i01jxzGOe4sUIPLV7G-L1gCyNCTqpGjhr4Lg_V5k5ydujz_O-l__MkxvSD2t4pY9JO_8Uawri35KWN0ztSGz7PG1L82EoKv012mWYqj2mHDPpjxCjeGbr1NWvgo01DsgfyKLA/s1600-h/leafcutter.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3i01jxzGOe4sUIPLV7G-L1gCyNCTqpGjhr4Lg_V5k5ydujz_O-l__MkxvSD2t4pY9JO_8Uawri35KWN0ztSGz7PG1L82EoKv012mWYqj2mHDPpjxCjeGbr1NWvgo01DsgfyKLA/s320/leafcutter.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121217770753498354" /></a><br />Have you heard about <a href="http://creatures.ifas.ufl.edu/misc/bees/leafcutting_bees.htm" target="_blank">leafcutter bees</a>? They cut pieces of leaves to line their nests. I used to see holes missing from my rose leaves all the time when I lived up north but never knew exactly what was causing the damage. I just happened across a 3 line note in a newspaper recently and was intrigued. <br /><br />Pretty interesting fast facts about this insect:<br /><li>they do not colonize like most bees; i.e., honeybees or wasps. Female bees do all the work to create next areas and provide food for their babies<br /><li>leafcutter bees nest in areas that are easy to excavate such as soft rotted wood or pithy plants<br /><li>leafcutters don't eat the pieces of leaves they cut but carry them back to their next to use as nest cells. Each cell is then provided with a mixture of nectar and pollen. The female lays an egg and seals each cell creating a nest tunnel. Each tunnel can contain a dozen or more cells forming a tube up to 8 inches in length. The bee babies will develop in the cells and emerge in the next season.<br /><li>they are considered important pollinators of wildflowers, fruits and vegetables, and are common in the US. <br /><li>my favorite fact - leafcutter bees are not aggressive toward people and will only sting if handled. <br /><br />Bees are fascinating creatures, aren't they? Happy Gardening and special thanks to Rick at <a href="http://west-penwith.org.uk/blog/" target="_blank">Order of the Bath</a> for the picture.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-72193917072650809882007-10-09T06:33:00.000-07:002007-10-09T06:44:09.206-07:00What kind of blogger are you?<a href="http://quiz.blogactionday.org" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://quiz.blogactionday.org/images/purist-expert-undiscovered.gif" border="2"></a> Are you a blogger? Do you know what kind? To find out, take the Quiz at <a href="http://quiz.blogactionday.org/" target="_blank">Blog Action Day</a>. It's fun and free plus you get your own badge announcing to the world who are you. Here's mine. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-16607427637075718412007-09-29T06:52:00.000-07:002007-09-29T08:00:09.833-07:00National Toilet Repair MonthWhat do National Toilet Repair Month and gardening have in common? Well, it's about water conservation. In the garden we try to plant drought tolerant and native plants that require less water use. Same thing in our homes - we find ways to reduce water usage such as fixing a leaking faucet or toilet. Why you ask? Two reasons - it supports the environment and saves money, and who wouldn't want to do both?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjeO1HEVuSj6iL0KN1lISizbeaAmQTyLCWvnvruCRH-pOE5cFzWiifyJ_l6aimEDnHY909dZZiY1lX4EsbHDwUUGTju4X2ZXVR4VsLK6E-t9R2cMPq0sCees74RKC1Ai-lHbHMw/s1600-h/toilet-black-cat.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjeO1HEVuSj6iL0KN1lISizbeaAmQTyLCWvnvruCRH-pOE5cFzWiifyJ_l6aimEDnHY909dZZiY1lX4EsbHDwUUGTju4X2ZXVR4VsLK6E-t9R2cMPq0sCees74RKC1Ai-lHbHMw/s320/toilet-black-cat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115640996237810882" /></a>According to the <a href="http://www.tradeobservatory.org/headlines.cfm?refID=37318" target="_blank">IATP Trade Observatory</a>, a leaking toilet can be one of the greatest sources of water waste in the home using up to 78,000 gallons of water a year or the equivalent of enough water to fill two average- size backyard swimming pools. <a href="http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/water/simple.htm" target="_blank">The Environmental Protection Agency</a> tells us that "the typical single-family suburban household uses at least 30 percent of their water outdoors for irrigation. Some experts estimate that more than 50 percent of landscape water use goes to waste due to evaporation or runoff caused by overwatering."<br /><br />For more information about water conservation in the garden, visit the USDA's <a href="http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard/watercon.html" target="_blank">Natural Resources Conservation Service</a>. To learn more about limiting water usage in your home, visit the EPA's <a href="http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/links.htm" target="_blank">links</a> page. If it's specifically your toilet that needs repair, visit <a href="http://www.fluidmaster.com/usa.html" target="_blank">Fluidmaster</a> for the how-tos including how to find a good plumber. And, just for fun, try taking the EPA's online water <a href="http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/quiz/index.htm" target="_blank">quiz</a>. It's fun and a great way to learn more. Not to brag but I scored 765, making me a WaterSense Expert. What's your score? Happy Gardening and don't call the plumber pictured here. I don't think he'd be much help.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-32955990536005227642007-09-26T10:59:00.000-07:002007-09-26T14:32:26.898-07:00What flower are you?<table width="145"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" style="border: 2px solid #006600;color:#ffffff;padding-top:5px;padding-bottom:5px;"> <p style="font-size:15px;font-family:Georgia,Serif;color:#000000;font-weight: bold;"><br /> I am a<br />Snapdragon <a href="http://www.thisgardenisillegal.com/flower-quiz.htm" style="font-size:15px;font-family:Georgia,Serif;color:#0000FF;" target="_blank"><br /> <br /><img src="http://thisgardenisillegal.com/quiz/snapdragon.jpg" width="140" height="200" border="0" /><br />What Flower <br />Are You?</a><br /><br /> </td></tr></table><br /><br />Well, the only way to find out is to take the quiz at Hanna's blog, <a href="http://www.thisgardenisillegal.com/" target="_blank">This Garden is Illegal</a>. While you're out there read her posts - she shares some great info and pictures. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-28173969938037202462007-09-25T13:02:00.000-07:002007-09-25T13:07:09.879-07:00Blog Action Day - October 15On October 15th, bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone’s mind - the environment. Everyone participating will write about what relates to them and their vision of how to make a better future. Visit <a href="http://blogactionday.org/" target="_blank">Blog Action Day</a> for more information. I plan to join in, how about you? Happy Gardening.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogactionday.org" target="_blank"> <img src="http://blogactionday.org/images/action_234x60.jpg"> </a>Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-25253535369773962642007-09-24T10:49:00.000-07:002007-09-29T10:07:14.029-07:00Bees - not just for honey anymore<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFFdmpyqS-kaikd8Ah4l_6sLzLzWCGrQ0aoCWImYfLLs2GyScFE8N8dOFyZAYY-q37hHJwoTa8NU8o1o7hMPjLsYoBX6CKCzSc6GOWbp7QtLbfujI-6fl1bcb3MHUyli9vNNLjQ/s1600-h/honeybee.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFFdmpyqS-kaikd8Ah4l_6sLzLzWCGrQ0aoCWImYfLLs2GyScFE8N8dOFyZAYY-q37hHJwoTa8NU8o1o7hMPjLsYoBX6CKCzSc6GOWbp7QtLbfujI-6fl1bcb3MHUyli9vNNLjQ/s320/honeybee.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113837857297800338" /></a><br />Did you know that honeybees can be trained to sniff out explosives? It's true. In a study published last year, <a href="http://www.lanl.gov/news/index.php/fuseaction/home.story/story_id/9460/view/print" target="_blank">Los Alamos National Laboratory</a> has proven that honeybees can be trained to find explosives. Apparently bees have a better sense of smell than dogs and have successfully smelled explosures in thousands of trials. The Department of Defense does not plan to use the bees for military purposes, but the study's leader, Timothy Haarmann, thinks it might make sense for other uses such as at airports or borders. <br /><br />On another bee-related note, the honeybee population has been dropping significantly. Roughly 50% of hives have disappeared, and <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/04/070426100117.htm" target="_blank">scientists</a> are beginning to hone in on the culprit. They now believe it is a combination of a virus and a parasite. Losing huge numbers of honeybees could have a disastrous impact since they pollinate so many of our crops. <br /><br />Finally, is it honeybee or honey bee? Either is correct. Entomologists use it as two words, most folks show it as one. For more honeybee information, visit the <a href="http://www.backyardbeekeepers.com/facts.html" target="_blank">Backyard Beekeepers </a>site. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-58483825917086440012007-09-01T05:37:00.000-07:002007-09-04T10:44:39.371-07:00Growing wintergreen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4TAl43VHUZk7K4nF3wrNt73LwsjoLbiAF9gc9p2mxYFDlJuLTgBFcJAwi9bRmHrnlyrq1nv2Hpo-snih_Q3NnnQD5yrmUvQlROAVKU09n0uNdvVuiSF-Cv5rQtEm4n_UAoucsQ/s1600-h/wintergreen.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106404443438060562" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4TAl43VHUZk7K4nF3wrNt73LwsjoLbiAF9gc9p2mxYFDlJuLTgBFcJAwi9bRmHrnlyrq1nv2Hpo-snih_Q3NnnQD5yrmUvQlROAVKU09n0uNdvVuiSF-Cv5rQtEm4n_UAoucsQ/s320/wintergreen.jpg" border="2" /></a><br />I recently read a short article about how rodents (rats, raccoons, mice, etc.) dislike the smell of wintergreen. It went on to mention trash bags folks can purchase that are impregnated with the natural oils of wintergreen and eucalyptus. Apparently, this deters rodents from feasting on your garbage. This started me thinking if you could use the trash bags you already had and, when full, spray them with the oils mentioned. That led me to ask myself if a person could grow wintergreen and I had to question whether I had ever seen wintergreen as a nursery or garden center selection.<br /><br />I let my fingers do the walking and found several sites offering wintergreen including <a href="http://www.hartmannsplantcompany.com/plants_groundcover.htm" target="_blank">Hartmann's</a>, <a href="http://springhillnursery.com/search.asp?ss=wintergreen" target="_blank">Spring Hill Nursery</a>,<a href="http://www.groundcover.com/info/gaultheria.html" target="_blank"> Seedland</a>, and <a href="http://www.waysidegardens.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StoreCatalogDisplay?storeId=10151&catalogId=10151&langId=-1&SearchText=wintergreen&mainPage=textsearchresults&RequestType=NewRequest" target="_blank">Wayside Gardens</a> to name a few. It is grown as a ground cover typically in zones 3-8. <em>Gaultheria procumbens</em> prefers shade but will grow in sun once well established. The plant forms white bell-shaped flowers in the summer becoming bright red berries in late fall, lasting until June of the following year. The berries contain the wintergreen oil as do the leaves. The leaves make a tea and the berries are edible. A word of caution, however. According to the <a href="http://www.prairienet.org/herbsociety/hotm/wintergreen.html" target="_blank">CU Herb Society</a> wintergreen oil is poisonous in large amounts and can actually be fatal to young children who drink it. They say the oil can also burn the skin although I assume you would have to slather it on like a sunscreen for that to happen.<br /><br />Mystery solved - you can grow wintergreen and it's widely available in more northern climes. For us down in the south, do you think wintergreen gum in the trash bag will accomplish the same thing? Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-31287547596459202452007-08-27T12:25:00.000-07:002007-08-30T15:21:18.017-07:00Rainbow<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6vIvSeT4mIahg1TNMtf1oUwzq2bPjP9YSQAAa-jEitG180biEOEyi8qEyjy8N0chvegrWQdFvmCAmkPjJ1HPJW6EI_bhDl8-cNPvsucqIaG-O5Qm1830gxj1BMpqXvNDjRx3Gg/s1600-h/rainbow2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6vIvSeT4mIahg1TNMtf1oUwzq2bPjP9YSQAAa-jEitG180biEOEyi8qEyjy8N0chvegrWQdFvmCAmkPjJ1HPJW6EI_bhDl8-cNPvsucqIaG-O5Qm1830gxj1BMpqXvNDjRx3Gg/s320/rainbow2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5103464336460485634" /></a><br />My <a href="http://mindwormsetc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">sister</a> sent me this picture she took after a recent rainstorm. As she put it "just another example of the joys of FLA living." I absolutely agree - it almost takes my breath away. They say there's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow - I say it ends exactly where we live and Ozona/Palm Harbor is our pot of gold. Enjoy and Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-13733014628501098112007-08-19T11:04:00.001-07:002007-08-19T11:26:24.058-07:00Weeding by example...That's exactly what this young man is doing. A victim of Hurricane Katrina, Jack McShane wanted to help bring back his hometown. Unfortunately, everyone said he was just too young to get involved. Well Jack decided he wasn't and now he not only participates in the clean up of a local park but has started mow-rons.org to support his mowing group. <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-08-15-neworleans-teen_N.htm?csp=34" target="_blank">USA Today </a>recently featured Jack - it is an inspiring story for all ages.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9MbUtjPR5ykI4t611JRv9JaRVcbnm4jOkkPxPARa4o0Rw1omjegrOOPp7vhEqJ3WTbGzwIMrm3l0qDFkiWWpnP2MwbKZUUAOIrNm4gv8L07sj0gGqcxzcs61BB_0jcahVb67Vw/s1600-h/NO-City-Park.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9MbUtjPR5ykI4t611JRv9JaRVcbnm4jOkkPxPARa4o0Rw1omjegrOOPp7vhEqJ3WTbGzwIMrm3l0qDFkiWWpnP2MwbKZUUAOIrNm4gv8L07sj0gGqcxzcs61BB_0jcahVb67Vw/s320/NO-City-Park.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5100479514578391970" /></a><br /><br />The group is 7 people strong with Jack as the youngest. Every Saturday these folks are at City Park keeping the area around the museum and bandstands cleaned up. Jack has stayed involved since the Fall of 2006 and never misses a weekend. He is truly "weeding by example". For more information about the group or how to donate, visit <a href="http://www.mow-rons.org/Home.html" target="_blank">mow-rons.org</a>. For more information about what is deemed "one of the largest urban greenbelts in the US, visit <a href="http://neworleanscitypark.com/" target="_blank">neworleanscitypark.com</a>. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-91070800556702949312007-08-11T11:33:00.001-07:002007-08-11T12:51:13.853-07:00More interesting linksPeter sent a note asking about tips on drought tolerant gardening. I mentioned native plants and xeriscaping and gave him a few links to follow for more information. As I replied to his email I noticed his url <a href="http://findthatgiftforhim.com/" target="_blank">Find That Gift for Him</a> and thought I would pass it on. If you're looking for a gift for your husband, father, brother, friend, etc. here's some good information to follow. And Peter, I hope you're successful with your drought tolerant gardening.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o7HtWt2vvWwTYgJXr3YwhvD3bgOOg5kwkm6s0_dMLsPY-yL0uylbe2F6gznplMAh3NUuhu0s01pkIrwvbk0x6zL1pH7uBpB3uPyjxrK29_LSSWFEst8B_x5AwR5O7ZYV801twg/s1600-h/squirrel-door.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3o7HtWt2vvWwTYgJXr3YwhvD3bgOOg5kwkm6s0_dMLsPY-yL0uylbe2F6gznplMAh3NUuhu0s01pkIrwvbk0x6zL1pH7uBpB3uPyjxrK29_LSSWFEst8B_x5AwR5O7ZYV801twg/s320/squirrel-door.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097525677099731634" /></a>Better Homes & Gardens dropped me a note asking if I'd like to let folks know about their new online tool <a href="http://www.bhg.com/bhg/story.jsp?storyid=/templatedata/bhg/story/data/planagardenhome_03022002.xml" target="_blank">Plan-A-Garden</a>. I haven't used it yet myself. So far it's been rated 3 stars out of 5 - some like it and some appear frustrated by the software. Overall I'd say it's worth a try.<br /><br /><a href="http://ilonasgarden.com/" target="_blank">Ilona</a> has a garden in central Ohio and wants to share her expertise with you. She has lots of information at her site so be sure to visit her.<br /><br />Looking for a unique screen door? Visit Suzana at <a href="http://www.funhousedesign.com/" target="_blank">Fun House Designs</a>. Her site specializes in whimsical, decorative, maintenance free porch brackets and screen doors in dozens of fun and interesting designs for your home, cottage or cabin. My favorite is the squirrel sitting on the tree limb!<br /><br />Derek wrote to tell me about his online Tree Nursery <a href="http://www.kingco.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank">King & Co</a> located in the UK. You can find an impressive selection of large, semi mature trees,specimen shrubs and large evergreens for your garden. Go check it out when you get the chance.<br /><br />Oops - I almost forgot two more. <a href="http://www.backyardbirdwatcher.com/" target="_blank" >Backyard Bird Watcher</a> is your source for backyard bird feeding supplies, home and garden, water garden and pond supplies and great gifts or the backyard enthusiast. They sure have a wide variety of items on their site.<br /><br /><a href="www.iloveplants.com/" target="_blank">iloveplants</a> is an online source for regional garden links, garden bargains and the best garden and plant-related website on the internet. There's lots of links to choose from on this site so go take a look. <br /><br /><br />Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-66182250558417505132007-07-29T09:56:00.000-07:002007-07-29T10:13:18.712-07:00Argiope aurantia<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPsh01_Yu45koq_zYwcNG5Ktz0wStQSu37PRY5GMH613dCAaXQLGn37jhDXKJvb5eJhyhN-dZkn0HsbG5WUBfoP1ClgWzevnB5FXy_Ia2PcrmR4gIayLg7r8aUJ_J32L7XMbNNw/s1600-h/leopard-spider2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPsh01_Yu45koq_zYwcNG5Ktz0wStQSu37PRY5GMH613dCAaXQLGn37jhDXKJvb5eJhyhN-dZkn0HsbG5WUBfoP1ClgWzevnB5FXy_Ia2PcrmR4gIayLg7r8aUJ_J32L7XMbNNw/s320/leopard-spider2.jpg" border="0" alt="Argiope"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092666999641098898" /></a><br />The web this spider weaves is fascinating, isn't it? Apparently the spider eats and then reforms it every night. I've never seen anything like it. <br /> <br /><a href="http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Argiope_aurantia.html" target="_blank">Black and yellow argiope</a> are found throughout the US and Canada and are not considered harmful to humans. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1176588929916930942007-04-14T14:42:00.000-07:002007-04-14T15:17:09.310-07:00Starting your seeds?It's that time of year and if you're anything like me you've already ordered your seeds. When they arrive, or just before, you check out your peat pots and starter soil to see if you have enough to get the seeds planted. Rather than using peat pots, try making starter pots out of newspaper. Why? Because it's<br /><ul><br /><li>a resource you probably already have in your home and receive every day<br /><li>a great way to recycle<br /><li>prevents support of peat bog erosion<br /><li>you can plant the pot and seedlings directly into the ground without disturbing the roots<br /></ul><br /><br />So how do you do it? You can follow these simple <a href="http://www.eco-artware.com/newsletter/newsletter_02_02.shtml#plants" target="_blank">directions</a>. This article suggests using a Potmaker, but any small can will work just as easily. <br /><br />If you don't have enough newspaper, try toilet paper rolls. Everybody has toilet paper rolls! The rolls are just the right size, you can fold the ends in to make the bottom of the pot, add soil and plant your seeds. Give it a try - you have nothing to lose. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1175962461609901882007-04-07T08:57:00.000-07:002007-04-07T09:18:45.713-07:00It's Gardening time...and here are more links for your enjoyment. <br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.toadlyfrogs.com/" target="_blank">Toadly Frogs</a> carries a variety of what else? frog stuff. There are froggy collectables, frames, jewelry, kitchen frogs, holiday frogs...the list goes on and on. And of course they carry garden frogs-chimes, thermometers, rain gauges, and my favorite the frog doorbell. We have one just like it that brightens up our front doorway.<br /><li>In the market for a new mailbox? Check out <a href="http://www.mailboxixchange.com/" target="_blank">Mailboxixchange</a> for wall mount or curbside options. They also offer among other things doormats, weathervanes, and address plaques. <br /><li>Do you have bamboo in your yard and don't know how to keep it from spreading? Visit <a href="http://www.bamboohabitat.com/" target="_blank">Bamboo Habitat</a> for rhizome barrier. You can also find mats, stakes, fencing and more.<br /><li>Garden accessories galore can be located at <a href="http://www.heaveninearth.com.au/" target="_blank">Heaven in Earth</a>. Have you ever heard of a dibber? It's for planting seeds and bulbs and is available in two sizes. I liked the plant labels made from slate and copper as well as the recycled tyre tub - great idea for recycling.<br /><li>Last but not least is a new garden blogger in Minnesota. Written by Jocelyn, <a href="http://gardencorner.net/" target="_blank">The Garden Corner</a> promises to offer lots of photographs and gardening advice as she moves through her experiences. Go check it out. <br /></ul><br />It's April. Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather even if you are getting some of those unexpected snow flurries. It's still great fresh air after all those months of being cooped up. Happy Gardening and Happy Easter.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1173836150022427832007-03-13T19:20:00.000-07:002007-03-14T06:57:25.063-07:00Remembering Vali<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/2110/215/1600/773686/Mr-Vali.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/2110/215/320/439799/Mr-Vali.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Vali died last week. He was absolutely the best boy in the entire world and we miss him dearly. Valentino came to us 16 years ago. He was a gangly little puppy who had escaped from his yard. My husband saw him and tried to make friends, but Vali was very shy. It took several hot dogs and lots of pets before he decided it was ok to give in and get in the car. <br /><br />My husband called to tell me he had found a little black dog and wanted to bring him home. I was picturing a pure black terrier weighing about 10 pounds - what I saw was a brown and black German Shepherd/Chow mix weighing in at 35 pounds. The vet swore he wouldn't get much bigger, but a year later brought an additional 30 pounds. We weren't sure what we were going to name him, but I took one look at those gorgeous brown eyes and said it had to be Valentino. And so it was.<br /><br />Vali had a wonderful temperament. He loved life and loved his family. He protected us but was always friendly with others. And he got along well with all of his brothers as each little rescue joined our brood. Well over a year ago Vali developed cancer. The doctor felt he would probably be with us for just a short period of time. But to our amazement and pleasure Vali proved him wrong and stayed with us until a few days ago. We were so blessed to have had him in our lives and we will never forget him. While he was still able to navigate the yard fairly well, he discovered the "jungle". This was a garden area that had been previously fenced off from the backyard, but when we put the new fence in we pushed it forward to allow this additional area for the boys to enjoy. It was one of Vali's favorite places to nose around in every chance he got. It was only fitting that we placed him there along with his brother <a href="http://thegardensgift.blogspot.com/2006/03/remembering-beau.html" title="permanent link" target="_blank">Beau</a> who left us just about the same time last year. We love you Vali and we'll look for you in the jungle. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1169908371656218032007-01-27T06:13:00.000-08:002007-01-27T06:32:52.386-08:00More linksHere are more links for you to peruse: <br /><ul><li>Interested in teak patio furniture? Check out <a href="http://www.shaantrading.com/index.html" target="_blank">Shaan Trading</a> in Java, Indonesia. They are a teak furniture supplier of quality patio and teak garden furniture serving businesses. <br /><li>Want to learn more about houseplant care? Visit <a href="http://houseplants-care.blogspot.com" target="_blank">houseplants-care</a> to find care tips on common houseplants including Yucca's, Bromeliad's, Palms, Croton plants and more.<br /><li>Thinking about redesigning your landscape? Visit <a href="http://www.landarchinc.com/" target="_blank">landarchinc.com</a> specializing in custom high-end residential landscape and aquatic design.<br /><li>Considering a patio set? Take a look at <a href="http://www.allweatherwicker.co.uk/" target="_blank">allweatherwicker</a>. This UK company offers The Cube set - stylish outdoor garden furniture, completely weatherproof, and tucks away for easy storage.<br /></ul><br />When it's this cold outside, it sure is fun to get a nice cup of hot chocolate and let your fingers do the scrolling. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1167146536168363062006-12-26T07:17:00.000-08:002006-12-26T07:22:16.183-08:00Patio furniture and moreHere's another link for you - <a href="http://www.buzaar.com " target="_blank">Hampton's Buzaar</a> sells patio furniture, fire pits, solar lights, arbors, and even outdoor tvs! Yes, you read it correctly - outdoor televisions. They are a little pricey but if you want the enjoyment of sitting on your patio or around the pool and catching your favorite show, then this is just the thing for you. Personally, I'd probably be watching a gardening show. Happy Gardening.Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6546667.post-1166738859065646052006-12-21T14:07:00.000-08:002006-12-21T14:10:05.593-08:00Bringing you natural living choicesThere's a new show soon to be in town. Beginning January 4, the Discovery Health Channel will feature Sara Snow who will be sharing ideas about living naturally. "Through compelling stories and everyday examples, Sara helps people take steps toward a more natural lifestyle, while introducing her audience to real people who are leading by example and already embracing a green, fresh lifestyle. <br /><br />In each episode of GET FRESH WITH SARA SNOW, Sara visits companies and people who are forging the way and making a greener lifestyle accessible and practical. Recurring segments like “Vitaminute” provide steps toward a more natural, healthy lifestyle that could dramatically improve your personal health and wellness."<br /><br />Here's a preview of her new show. Happy Gardening and make it organic.<br /><br /><b>Get Fresh With Sara Snow</b><br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.com/v/6qyHOOUUemc"></param><embed src="http://youtube.com/v/6qyHOOUUemc" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>Nancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16065851241849546625noreply@blogger.com0