#Wintering The Garden Tips

[askwhatsforlunch]

Wintering The Garden

As the days are getting colder and colder, and it is frequently freezing at night, Wintering The Garden becomes essential, if you want to see it beautifully abloom come Spring. Now is the ideal time to feed and enrich your soil, too; next year's harvest will reward your efforts!

Leaf Mould 

Lasagna Garden (Update One) (Update Two) (Update Three) (Update Four)

Wintering Camellias 

Mulching 

Wintering Geraniums 

Pruning Fruit Trees 

Pruning Hydrangeas 

Wintering Peonies 

[eepybogboy]

did a round of eye swaps this weekend! it's the most ive done all at once, and i gotta say, i do not recommend it. by the time i got new eyes in these four, my hands were begging me to stop, so poor Priscilla sat eyeless for a while. but I'm really happy with the results!

let me walk you through the process a bit.

i used this guide to help decide which eyes i wanted to use.

this all started because i wanted Daria's eyes for Zooey.

Daria's eyes don't match her color scheme at all, and this has always bothered me about her. they stand out too much, and its jarring. but that minty blue and pale pink are Zooey's colors exactly, it would complete her alien vibe perfectly.

but, unfortunately, Zooey and Daria have different eye chips. Daria has the Twins eye chip, which has four pegs to keep it in place in the socket, and Zooey has the newer B2 chip, which has only two prongs. i was worried that Daria's eyes wouldnt fit in Zooey's head, so i prepared a backup donor: Simone.

Simone has the CNY eye chip, first introduced in Lily Cheng, the Special Edition doll for the Chinese New Year in 2022. this eye mold is more similar to the B2 eyes since it also has only two prongs, so if Daria's eyes didnt sit right in Zooey, these might be a better fit. the colors arent as perfect, but it could work.

except that Darias eyes fit Zooey perfectly. she looks so cute! now her eyebrows are even more out of place, but I'll get to that later.

i had already taken out Simone's eyes to compare the two, so she was given Zooey's eyes.

i was blown away by how incredible she looks! so soft and sweet. i was fond of her before, but she's crawled up into my top ten faves with this one alteration.

now, i was going to give those eyes to Daria, but they obviously belong to Simone now. Daria still needs brown eyes though, so i brought out a more fitting donor for her: Priscilla. she has the same color eyes as Zooey, but in the Twins eye chip.

perfect for ms. Daria, much more natural. it's just what she needed.

now, i wasn't intending to bring Minnie into this, but her eyes are a bit unusually dark, and i had Simone's eyes sitting there.. and well. i already had the hair dryer out.

honestly? a serve. she has B2 eyes originally, like Zooey, so the lashes are Just under her eyelid but they still fit her sculpt pretty well.

at this point, my hands were aching, and i had worn a blister into my thumb, so i had to take a break. Pris was going into the stock box anyway, so there was no pressure to finish her, but the next day i came back and gave her Minnie's eyes for safekeeping.

she looks a little sleepy, but overall pretty cute. she probably won't stay this way because she's going into the potential custom pile, but its fine for now.

look at these four and how perfect they are!! Zooey and Daria came out exactly how i planned, but i am still so shook by how beautiful Simone is now. i just cant stop looking at her.

I'll be reblogging to add more photos, including side by side comparisons to the stock photos since tungle will only let me post 10 pictures at a time

[ohmytomatoe]

PIZZA TIME 🍕

[housingconcierge]

Protecting Your Plants from Winter’s Chill: Essential Tips for Cold Weather Care

Protect your plants this winter! Water, mulch, cover garden beds, and move container plants to keep them safe from the cold. #GardeningTips #WinterCare

As temperatures drop, your garden needs extra protection to survive the harsh winter weather. Cold temperatures, frost, and snow can be damaging to plants, especially those that are not frost-tolerant. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help your plants weather the cold. Here are some essential tips for protecting your plants during the colder months: 1. Water Before a…

[robertleechestateagents]

A Garden for All Seasons

Many of us, if we’re honest, enjoy a spot of spontaneous plant shopping. And we’re most likely to do this when the weather is good and we want to be outside. As a result, gardens tend to be well stocked with spring and summer flowering herbaceous plants but…come winter, none are in flower and most have dropped their leaves or even died right back to ground level, leaving a rather stark space. You may not be sitting in your garden now but it’s going to be your view for several months so it’s worth planning for.

To solve your naked garden woes, here are my 6 top tips for the Winter Garden.

1) Evergreens – Evergreen shrubs, plants, climbers and trees should form the structure of your garden. Some popular, hardy choices include: yew, bay, climbing jasmine (trachylospermum jasminoides), holly, hebe, photinia and box (but this is currently very prone to disease so try ilex crenata).

2) Grasses – No, not a large clump of pampas (this is not the 70s!) but try one of the many other varieties such as miscanthus sinensis morning light or miscanthus zebrinus and repeat for stunning effect. The grasses reflect light beautifully, move with the wind and create beautiful displays when covered in frost.

3) Red Stems – Some plants are grown especially for the intense colour of their red stems which are revealed when their leaves fall. Some ideas to get you started include the acer palmatum and cornus sanguinea (midwinter fire).

4) Plants with decorative seed heads – Many plants don’t need to be pruned until late Jan / Feb. Their seed heads can create fabulous architectural interest and movement in winter. I’m particularly fond of mop head hydrangeas and verbena bonariensis.

5) Garden Structures – If you invest in beautiful plant supports such as wooden or wrought iron obelisks, rose baskets, lobster pots or arches they will take on a new lease of life when the plants they support die back. Some are quite beautiful sculptures in their own right.

6) Lighting – Naturally you can have great fun with Christmas lights but it may also be worth getting a professional installation of permanent lighting to highlight particular garden features. On short winter days you can enjoy the display from inside your home and on balmy summer evenings you can sit out til late.

So, simply get to know your soil type and garden environment, select structural plants that like these conditions and you’re well on your way to creating a beautiful garden for all seasons.

Laura’s Gardens

For more ideas please visit my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/laurasgardensuk/ or www.laurasgardens.com

Laura’s Gardens is a Reigate garden design service run by Laura Bedell-Pearce. Laura specialises in small garden redesigns, border makeovers and container planting.

Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/a-garden-for-all-seasons/

[usabuisnesskeeper]

How to Grow Auto Seeds in Winter: A Complete Guide

It may seem like a challenge to grow auto seeds in winter. However, with the proper knowledge and setup, it’s possible to cultivate healthy and beautiful plants. Auto or auto-flowering seeds have become very popular among growers. They’re hardy with fast growth cycles and can grow in almost any environment. Here is a complete tutorial on navigating you successfully through the art of auto-seed cultivation during cold seasons.

Understanding Auto Seeds  

What’s so special about Autoflowering seeds is that they don’t have to wait for an appropriate light cycle to flower. Auto seeds do not like photoperiod plants, as they need certain light conditions to bloom, and auto starts automatically from vegetative growth to flowering, following their genetic timeline. This characteristic makes them an excellent choice for winter cultivation, meaning they can be grown indoors under strictly controlled lights.

Why Auto Seeds Make Great Plants for Winter?  

Winter cultivation has its own set of advantages:

1. Controlled Environment: When growing indoors in winter, you can control the temperature, humidity and light your plants receive.

2. Less Pest Pressure: Common pests and moulds are less active in cold weather, making plants more likely to do well.

3. Year-Round Harvest: If you have auto-flowering seeds, you can have 2 to 3 harvests per season, including winter.

Readying Your Winter Grow Space  

The success of your auto seeds in winter depends on the ideal environment. Here’s what you’ll need:  

1. Temperature Control  

Temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C–29°C) are ideal for auto seeds. Grab a small space heater or heat mat in the winter to ensure your growing area retains warmth.  

2. Lighting  

While auto seeds don’t depend on particular light schedules, growing with 18–20 hours of light daily results in rapid growth. Some diligent friends have discovered that LED grow lights are energy efficient and work great indoors if you have to light up the place during winter.  

3. Ventilation

Mold and mildew are prevented with proper air circulation, and particularly during winter, the humidity levels can vary, so it becomes essential. In the beginning, install some fans, and make sure your grow room or tent is well-ventilated.  

4. Humidity Levels

Maintain a humidity between 40% and 60%. Adjust moisture levels with a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.  

5. Soil and Nutrients  

Select good soil that is high in organic matter. Balanced nutrients are required during the autoflower’s lifecycle, with nitrogen heavily leaning towards the vegetative stage and phosphorus and potassium to flower.  

Choosing your winter auto seeds right.  

Auto seeds are not all the same. Colder strains work better. Strains that are hardy and have a shorter flower time will be better for winter cultivation, so keep an eye out for those. According to trusted seed banks’ research and recommendations, find strains that will meet your needs.

A Step By Step Guide to Growing Auto Seeds in Winter  

1. Germination

First, start germinating your seeds indoors. Plant directly into moist soil or use the paper towel method. Germination is best done at room temperatures around 75°F (24°C).  

2. Seedling Stage  

Under grow lights, get your seedlings enough light but not too hot. Temperature should be kept constant, and humidity levels should be closely watched.  

3. Vegetative Growth

When vegetative, your plants will be straining and concentrating on strong stems and leaves. Provide them with nitrogen-rich nitrogen-rich nutrients and a light schedule of 18–20 hours of the day.  

4. Flowering Stage

The auto seeds will naturally revert to the flowering stage with no change in the light schedule. Switch to using bloom nutrients with higher P and K levels. Humidity is on your radar, and airflow is good, so mould isn’t a problem.  

5. Harvesting  

The exact time of your auto plants’ harvest depends on the strain. 8–12 weeks should do it. Look for signs such as amber trichomes and pistils that darken to determine the perfect harvest time.  

Winter Tips: how to successfully cultivate the winter flowers

Insulate Your Grow Space: Reflective material to line your grow tent or room keeps all the heat and lighting.  

Monitor Daily: Be aware that with winter conditions, plants can go from situations that seem OK one day to adverse conditions the next. Be sure to check your plants daily for any stress.  

Choose Compact Strains: Autoflowers are smaller by nature. However, compact strains are even better for small indoor spaces.  

Avoid Overwatering: In winter, plants need less water. Root rot and other problems can be caused by overwatering.  

Growing Auto Seeds in Winter: What to Consider  

While winter cultivation has its perks, it also comes with some challenges:  

Temperature Drops: Cold snaps, as do sudden temperature drops, stress your plants. Make sure that your grow space is insulated.  

Limited Space: They can be restricted indoors. Maximize your area by using space-saving techniques such as vertical growing.  

Energy Costs: During winter, electricity bills can skyrocket due to heating and lighting issues. Choose energy-saving equipment to cut costs.  

Finally, we'll add to our list of controversial auto-flowering cannabis strains that are highly coveted by growers in winter.  

If you’re unsure which strains to grow, here are some popular options:  

1. Northern Lights Auto: A resilient and quick flowering variety.  

2. White Widow Auto: A high-yielding, compact strain with good cold resistance.  

3. Blueberry Auto: A great-tasting strain that works well in all conditions.  

Advantages of Getting Auto Seeds During Winter  

Winter growing auto seeds ensures you have gardening in the year. As they only have a short lifecycle, are adaptable and generally don’t require light cycles, auto flowers are optimal for indoor growers wishing to bypass the seasonal constraints.

Conclusion  

Your growing season doesn’t have to end just because it is winter. With the proper care and preparation, auto seeds can be grown in the coldest months. With the right strains, providing the most suitable indoor environment, and paying attention to best practices, you will have no problem hitting home runs.

So, get geared up to grow through wintry days with winter gardening and the review of potential auto seed winter cultivation now!

[floristusa]

Winter Flowers: Types and Tips to Grow and Care

The reason why winter flowers are so awesome is because they grow at a time when all conditions are adverse. This signifies the fighting spirit. Winter gardens are among the most unrealistic views you will see. They remind you of some Disney fantasy world with their vibrant flowers. They act as a contrast to the otherwise dull surroundings. According to Geneva Florist, winter gardens are hard to maintain because growing flowers in the off-season is difficult. If taken care of properly, winter flowers can bloom for the whole season.

[landtechscenery]

Top 10 Winter Garden Maintenance Tips

Winter garden maintenance is crucial for a healthy outdoor space. Though it may seem like a time to relax, taking steps like protecting plants from frost and ensuring proper drainage can greatly enhance your garden's health. For more tips, see our top ten winter maintenance tips.

[umangharyana]

सर्दियों में अदरक का फायदा: घर पर कैसे उगाएं ताजा अदरक, जानें आसान तरीका

How to Grow Ginger at Home : सर्दियों का मौसम आते ही अदरक (Ginger) का सेवन हमारे घरों में बढ़ जाता है। चाहे चाय हो, काढ़ा हो या फिर खाना बनाने का मसाला, अदरक हर जगह अपनी खास जगह बना चुका है। इसके औषधीय गुण न केवल हमारी इम्यूनिटी को मजबूत बनाते हैं, बल्कि सर्दियों में शरीर को गर्म भी रखते हैं। अगर आप भी घर पर ताजा और केमिकल-फ्री अदरक उगाना चाहते हैं, तो यह लेख आपके लिए है। यहां हम आपको बताएंगे…

[yourdreamboyyy]

I have recently bought this Dark red rose plant ( english rose ) on the auspicious day of Deepawali. I wish i may take good care of my plants and i could buy more. I remember my dad used to plant a lot of vegetables and flower plants at my home when i was a kid. Mom and dad both loves plants though due to some reasons i can't really buy a lot of plants. Well here i am sharing a picture of this beautiful rose... if my plant will survive then i will share few more snaps 🤭🤭

Let's see if my cute red rose will get some love over tumblr 👀 🌹

[backyardgardenguru]

Top 10 Recommendations for the Best-Tasting Winter Squash: A Guide to Flavorful and Nutritious Varieties

Winter squash is a delicious and versatile vegetable that comes in many shapes, sizes, and flavors. From sweet and creamy to nutty and rich, the best-tasting winter squash varieties can transform your soups, casseroles, or roasted vegetable dishes.

They’re also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to our top 10 winter squash varieties known for their outstanding flavor and texture.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to growing squash, these recommendations will help you enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious winter squash this season.

1. Butternut Squash

Description: Butternut squash is one of the most popular and widely grown varieties, known for its smooth, sweet, and nutty flavor. Its creamy texture makes it ideal for roasting, pureeing into soups, or using in baked dishes.

Growing Tips: Butternut squash thrives in warm weather with full sun. Be sure to plant in well-drained soil and give the vines plenty of space to spread.

2. Delicata Squash

Description: Delicata squash has a sweet, honey-like flavor and a tender texture. It’s often referred to as "sweet potato squash" because of its rich taste. The skin is thin and edible, making it easy to prepare for roasting or stuffing.

Growing Tips: Delicata squash grows best in warm soil and sunny conditions. Water regularly and provide good air circulation to avoid mildew.

3. Acorn Squash

Description: Acorn squash is slightly sweet with a nutty flavor, and it’s known for its small, ribbed shape. It’s great for roasting, baking, or stuffing, and its flesh is moist and flavorful when cooked.

Growing Tips: Acorn squash is relatively easy to grow, preferring warm soil and regular watering. It’s a compact plant, making it suitable for smaller gardens.

4. Kabocha Squash

Description: Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin, has a rich, sweet flavor and a dense, starchy texture. Its flavor is often compared to sweet potato or chestnut, making it perfect for soups, stews, or roasting.

Growing Tips: Kabocha squash grows best in warm, well-drained soil. Give it plenty of space to sprawl and water consistently for optimal growth.

5. Hubbard Squash

Description: Hubbard squash is known for its large size and sweet, slightly nutty flavor. It’s often used in pies, soups, and purees. Its dense flesh holds up well in long cooking processes, making it perfect for hearty winter meals.

Growing Tips: Hubbard squash plants need plenty of space to grow, so plant in an area where the vines can spread. Ensure consistent watering and full sun exposure.

6. Sweet Dumpling Squash

Description: Sweet Dumpling squash is a small, personal-sized squash with a mild, sweet flavor. Its tender flesh is perfect for roasting or baking, and its small size makes it ideal for single-serving dishes.

Growing Tips: Sweet Dumpling squash grows well in warm, sunny locations. It’s a smaller vine, so it can be grown in more compact spaces with regular watering.

7. Buttercup Squash

Description: Buttercup squash has a rich, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor with a creamy texture. Its deep orange flesh is ideal for soups, purees, and casseroles. It’s a great choice if you prefer a squash with a denser texture.

Growing Tips: Buttercup squash plants prefer warm soil and need ample space to grow. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps the plants healthy.

8. Spaghetti Squash

Description: Spaghetti squash is unique in that its flesh separates into strands resembling spaghetti when cooked. It has a mild flavor, making it an excellent low-carb substitute for pasta. It’s often served with sauces or in casseroles.

Growing Tips: Spaghetti squash grows best in warm, well-drained soil with full sun. Support the vines as they grow, and water consistently.

9. Red Kuri Squash

Description: Red Kuri squash, also known as Hokkaido squash, has a sweet, chestnut-like flavor and a creamy texture. Its bright red-orange skin adds color to your garden, and it’s perfect for soups, stews, and roasting.

Growing Tips: Red Kuri squash prefers warm temperatures and plenty of sun. Regular watering and mulching will help keep the plants healthy.

10. Carnival Squash

Description: Carnival squash is a colorful, festive-looking variety with a mild, sweet flavor. It’s similar to acorn squash but with more vibrant skin. Its tender flesh is great for roasting, baking, or stuffing.

Growing Tips: Carnival squash grows well in sunny, warm locations with regular watering. It’s a compact plant, making it suitable for smaller gardens or containers.

Tips for Growing Flavorful Winter Squash

- Choose the Right Variety: Selecting the best-tasting varieties suited to your climate and growing conditions will help ensure a successful harvest.

- Plant in Full Sun: Winter squash needs plenty of sunlight to develop rich flavors and strong plants.

- Water Regularly: Consistent watering is essential for producing flavorful squash. Make sure the soil is evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging.

- Fertilize: Squash plants are heavy feeders, so use a balanced fertilizer or compost to keep them healthy throughout the growing season.

- Harvest at Peak Ripeness: For the best flavor, wait until the squash has fully matured before harvesting. The skin should be hard, and the color should be vibrant.

Final Thoughts for the Best-Tasting Winter Squash

Growing winter squash is rewarding not only for the vibrant flavors but also for the variety of textures and culinary uses they offer. With so many delicious varieties to choose from, you can enjoy a diverse harvest that adds warmth and nutrition to your meals throughout the fall and winter months.

Ready to start growing the best-tasting winter squash and enjoy a bountiful, flavorful harvest?

[dunsterhouseblogs]

As the colder months creep in, it's time to take proactive steps to protect your plants. Here are some tips for protecting your plants from frost, so they can survive the cold weather and thrive into spring.

[miamibeachbroker]

Home Maintenance Checklist

Get your home ready for the upcoming season with our tailored home maintenance checklist! Whether you're bracing for a cold winter or enjoying the cooler weather in South Florida, these essential tips will help you prepare your home!

Tips & Tricks from a Professional Realtor for Winter Preparation—No Matter Where You Live! As a professional realtor with experience in both cold climates and warm regions like South Florida, I understand that winter means different things depending on where you live. Whether you’re bracing for snow or finally ready to enjoy your backyard without the summer heat, it’s crucial to get your home in…

[ohmytomatoe]

Today became a day I needed it to become.

STEAK TIPS 🥩🌶️ Mini bell peppers, jalapeño, onions, garlic, artichokes and spices.

PEPPER BOOB OR BUTT?

[housingconcierge]

Composting and Soil Health: Why Winter is the Best Time to Start

Winter is the perfect time to start composting! Improve your soil health and prepare for spring with these helpful composting tips for colder months. #Composting #WinterGarden

Winter often gets a bad rap as the “off-season” for gardeners and farmers. The cold weather makes it seem like the growing season is over, but it’s actually the perfect time to work on improving your soil health—particularly through composting. While your garden might be dormant for the season, your soil doesn’t have to be. The Importance of Soil Health Healthy soil is the foundation of a…

[askwhatsforlunch]

Gardening: Leaf Mould

Making Leaf Mould, sometimes referred to as "gardeners' gold", is the easiest thing. All you need is a good rake, and patience (something gardening teaches you, anyway!) And then, fungi will do the work of decomposing and breaking down fallen tree leaves into a rich, dark brown mixture that's wonderful for Mulching and feed you plants and sows good nutrients.

There is one job you have to do, though! On a crisp rather than sodden day in late Autumn or early Winter, arm yourself with a rake, and gather fallen leaves into heaps in your garden.

Fill large bags --garden sacks or Ikea shopping bags, which work very well- with Autumn leaves. The bags shoudn't be packed as the air needs to circulate to allow fungi to develop.

Place the bag in a hidden spot if you prefer, but not sheltered from the rain and elements, and wait.

After a year, perhaps earlier depending on which tree the leaves came from, some take longer to decompose, you should have a beautifully rich and dark Leaf Mould.

Scoop it into large basins or buckets, and allow to dry in a garden shed or garage if it has rained a lot and it is wet.

Then, your Leaf Mould is ready to use, to feed your soil before sowing seeds or planting seeds, to amend it once your vegetables are growing, or to use as Mulching /to protect your budding tulip bulbs on a cold ad snowy day like today! Happy gardening, friends!