Heating cables are a resourceful way to sprout stubborn seedlings. Many plants hatch better in warm soil, but a space heater doesn't heat the soil to the indicated temperature right away. The right cables depend upon how much soil area you need to heat. Measure the area of the bottom part of the soil--multiply the length times the width. For areas of 1.5 square feet, a small six-foot cable should do fine--for three square feet, use a 12-foot cable. Anything over six square feet requires a cable at least 24 feet in length. For anything greater than this, you'll probably want more than one cable, or try laying down several larg

The perception of nature is different in the Japanese culture from that of the European one. Instead of viewing nature only as something to be subjugated and transformed according to men-made ideal of beauty, Japanese developed a close connection to nature, considering it sacred, an ally in putting food on the table and an ideal of beauty in itself. That is why the Japanese gardens are the synthesis of nature in miniature instead of correction of nature as with European gardens.

When installing a cold frame greenhouse in your yard choose an area with southern or southeastern exposure. Also be sure there is proper drainage. In extreme conditions you’ll need to take extra steps to protect your plants. Professionals recommend stacking leaves and or straw on top of the structure during the night. This will protect your greenhouse garden from freezing.

Perennials actually have a life cycle that extends past a single growing season and usually into three, four, or five years.

Mantis Tiller Cultivator comes with patented tines to aid in cutting smoothly through hard, compacted soil. It is perfect for preparing vegetable plots, flower beds, etc. It also helps in thatching, aerating and cleaning moss. It also comes with a free border edger.

After planting your water plants in plastic tubs or clay pots, pack the fertilizer- and chemical-free soil down tightly, and load the container down with pea gravel. This keeps soil from floating away. Place your plant into your pond at the necessary depth and you’re on your way.

Many people focus on the brightly colored flowers – the reds, yellows, and oranges, but they overlook what a simple green can do for the garden. The next time you go to the greenhouse to pick out flowers for your garden, take a moment and consider this. It’s important because the garden – and your whole house – should reflect your personality. If you are the nurturer, let the green come out and show the neighborhood that this is your sanctuary.

Overwatering kills most houseplants. Looks can be deceptive, so to see if your soil is dry enough to water, try the finger test. Insert your index finger up to the first joint into the soil. If the soil is damp, don't water it.

The style of your home must be taken into account. If you have a rural cottage, formal gardens surrounding it will look out of place. Think also about your lifestyle. Do you want to spend hours caring for many beds of annuals or pruning beds of roses? If so, go ahead and plant them, but if you'd rather spend your free time at the beach, then go for an easy-care garden and landscape.

Stunted or malformed young canes: Known as powdery mildew, this is a fungal disease that covers leaves, stems and buds with wind spread white powder. It makes the leaves curl and turn purple. Spray with Funginex or Benomyl to treat this fungal disease.

Blistered underside of leaves: Known as rust, this disease is characterized by orange-red blisters that turn black in fall. It can survive the winter and will then attack new sprouts in the spring. Collect and discard leaves that are infected in fall. a Benomyl or Funginex spray every 7-10 days may help.