Category: Gardening Tips & Advice

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Gardening Tips & Advice

It grows everywhere, but most people don’t know its name or its importance in the world

Nature is a treasure trove of hidden wonders, and one such marvel is the yarrowway herb. Despite its widespread presence, this unassuming plant often goes unnoticed by many. Yet, its significance in various aspects of human life, from traditional medicine to ecological stability, cannot be overstated.
In this article, we will explore what yarrowway herb is, where it is found, how to use it, and its importance to both humans and the environment.
What is Yarrowway Herb?
Yarrowway herb, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also commonly referred to as common yarrow, soldier’s woundwort, or milfoil. The plant is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, forests, and even along roadsides.
Identification of Yarrowway Herb
Yarrowway herb typically grows to a height of 10 to 80 centimeters (4 to 31 inches) and has feathery, fern-like leaves that are deeply divided into numerous segments. The plant’s flowers are small and typically white or pale pink, arranged in flat-topped clusters at the top of its stems. Yarrowway is known for its pleasant, aromatic scent.
Where is Yarrowway Herb Found?
Yarrowway herb is an incredibly adaptable plant and can be found in a variety of environments across the world. It is native to regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, and it has been introduced to other parts of the world as well. You can encounter yarrowway herb in the following locations:
Meadows and Grasslands: Yarrowway often thrives in open grassy areas, where its white or pink blooms add a touch of beauty to the landscape.
Roadsides and Disturbed Areas: Due to its resilience and ability to tolerate different soil conditions, yarrowway frequently grows along roadsides and in areas that have been disturbed by human activity.
Gardens: Gardeners sometimes cultivate yarrowway for its ornamental value, as it can be an attractive addition to flower beds and borders.
Forest Clearings: Yarrowway herb can also be found in forest clearings and woodland edges.
How to Use Yarrowway Herb
Yarrowway herb has a long history of use in traditional medicine and various other applications. Here are some ways in which yarrowway can be used:
Medicinal Uses:
Wound Healing: Yarrowway herb has astringent and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating minor cuts, wounds, and bruises. It can be applied topically as a poultice or added to salves and ointments.
Anti-Inflammatory: Yarrowway can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain when used as a poultice or applied in a compress.
Digestive Aid: Yarrowway has been used to soothe digestive discomfort and promote healthy digestion when brewed into a tea.
Fever Reduction: It is believed to have fever-reducing properties and is used in traditional remedies for fever.
Culinary Uses:
Yarrowway leaves and flowers are edible and can be used as a flavoring agent in salads, soups, and stews. They have a slightly bitter taste and can add depth to dishes.
Ecological Significance:
Yarrowway herb plays a vital role in the ecosystem as it supports pollinators like bees and butterflies by providing nectar and pollen. Its presence can contribute to increased biodiversity in natural areas.
Ornamental Uses:
Yarrowway’s attractive, feathery leaves and delicate flowers make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add beauty to their landscapes.
Conclusion
Yarrowway herb, often overlooked despite its widespread presence, holds immense significance in various aspects of human life and ecological stability. From its historical use in traditional medicine to its role in supporting pollinators and enhancing biodiversity, this unassuming plant is an essential part of our natural world. So, the next time you come across a cluster of yarrowway blooms, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and importance of this humble yet remarkable herb.
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Gardening Tips & Advice

Take a lantern and chicken wire and create the prettiest planter for your garden

Succulents are the hot-houseplant of the moment. These petite and pretty plants are adored for their cartoon-like shape, variety of colors, and their ease to care for.
These plants are perfect accents for your desk, dining room table, or your outdoor table set this summer. We’ve seen succulents displayed in pretty little pots all over the web, but there’s more creative ways to show them off and we’ve gathered some of the easiest, and cutest DIY’s out there.
1. Succulent lantern
Have an old lantern lying around? One with already broken glass, or maybe a busted door? This it the perfect DIY to upscale it.
This craft idea by Fun Farm Living is going to add a chic, and funky vibe to your home – plus, it’s fun and easy to put together. Use it as an accent on your outdoor dining set, place it on the front steps, or even a window of your home.
2. Driftwood succulent planter
This is the DIY all the upscale design shops don’t want you to know. You’ve probably seen this stunning centerpiece grace magazines and high end design websites – but now you can make it yourself.
In an E-how post, Lucy Akins has put together a simple DIY so you can create it at a fraction of the price.
3. Chair succulent garden
We all have an old chair that we don’t really know what to do with. Maybe it doesn’t match your set, or you picked it up on the side of the road because it was too pretty to pass up. Either way, it’s sitting around collecting dust.
Your Great Finds has an incredible DIY that’s going to help you transform that chair into a beautiful addition to your garden or patio.
4. Hanging succulent ball
These succulent balls are a versatile craft you can use all over the home. Hang them under the umbrella of your outdoor dining set, outside your front door, and as replacements for holly-balls during the holidays.
It’s a fun and easy DIY put together by Lowe’s that also makes a great present.
5. Vintage tea tin succulent planters
We’ve seen succulents in pretty pots before – but reusing vintage, and modern tea tins is a fun spin on the trend. In this DIY by The Sarah Johnson you’re both upscaling something you’d normally trash, and giving these pretty succulents a cute new planter you can show off around the house.
Ready to get creative with succulents? Share this with friends who would love these DIY’s too on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Gardening Tips & Advice

10+ fall wreath ideas that cost under $10 to make

It’s almost autumn, and you probably can’t wait for it to begin. Chilly fall evenings are the perfect time to put on a cozy sweater, make a cup of hot tea and retreat indoors to do some crafting.
The colors of the autumn leaves are endlessly inspiring, and it’s possible to fill your house with marvelous fall decorations no matter what your budget might be. Welcome the season into your home by making one of these gorgeous, inexpensive wreaths.
Barbed wire wreath
When it comes to adding a decorative wreath to the wall, barbed wire may not be the first material that comes to mind for creating the perfect accent piece. While this material is often viewed as difficult to handle, a barbed wire wreath is very possible to make with the right tools and a little time. Options to add decorative floral stems to the arrangement make for a texturized final product that combines the best of dramatic edges and petal-soft lines. Get the full tutorial here.
Dollar store leaf wreath
Believe it or not, everything used to make this beautiful wreath was purchased from the dollar store. It takes a bit of time to trim and glue the leaves, but the results are well worth it. Get the full tutorial here.
Orange wreath with Styrofoam balls
Add some Florida warmth to any room in the house with this realistic and bright wreath featuring Styrofoam balls painted to look like oranges. Hang this simple wreath on a wall in the living room, hallway, foyer or kitchen. Get the full tutorial here.
Simple wheat wreath
If your decoration style tends to be more on the neutral side, this natural-looking wheat wreath is the way to go. You could easily customize the inner flags to say anything you’d like. Get the full tutorial here.
Pine cone wreath
Hang a wreath anywhere in a room for a colorful conversation piece. Add leaves for a fall wreath or pastel flower blooms for a spring decoration. When Halloween comes around, paint the pine-cone ends bright green or orange and hang small plastic spiders in lieu of berries. Get the full tutorial here.
Grapevine wreath with felt rosettes
Flowers are usually found on springtime and summer decorations, but this colorful fall wreath proves you don’t have to limit fall decorations to leaves and pumpkins. The felt rosettes are much easier to make than they look. Get the full tutorial here.
Monogrammed burlap rosette wreath
This beautiful monogrammed wreath is the perfect blend of modern and rustic. Get the full tutorial here.
Pumpkin wreath
Mini pumpkins are just size for myriad crafts, including a wreath with autumnal colors. Add a few fake fall leaves, and this project will bring the season right to your door. Get the full tutorial here.
Log slice wreath
A wreath made from wood slices is a nice way to accentuate the decor of a rustic home, especially for autumn. Hobby shops and craft stores have various sizes of slices available, but you also can use slices cut from fallen branches. Just make sure they are free of insects before you bring them into the home. Get the full tutorial here.
Simple burlap wreath
You can’t get simpler and more cost effective than this burlap wreath. This wreath instantly adds fall vibes to the door of your house!
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Gardening Tips & Advice

5 best methods for freezing herbs

 

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of growing a lush herb garden, tending to each plant with care and witnessing it flourish. The beauty of homegrown herbs, however, comes with a catch – an abundance that can be challenging to use up before they start to wither away. Fortunately, freezing methods come to the rescue, allowing us to preserve the vibrant tastes and aromas of our freshly harvested herbs throughout the seasons.
Freezing herbs offers a range of benefits, including an extended shelf life, retained freshness, and the convenience of having a stash of ready-to-use herbs at our fingertips. In this article, we will explore the best methods for freezing herbs straight from the garden, ensuring that every ounce of their natural goodness is retained, ready to grace our recipes with an unmatched freshness.
Flash Freezing:
Flash freezing is a simple yet effective method to freeze herbs individually, ensuring they retain their texture and taste. To do this, start by washing the herbs gently and patting them dry with paper towels. Lay the herbs in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray lined with parchment paper. Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours until the herbs are fully frozen. Once frozen, transfer the herbs into labeled freezer bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible. Flash freezing prevents the herbs from sticking together, allowing you to take out the required amount without defrosting the entire batch.
Herb Vinegar:
Herb vinegar is an innovative way to preserve the flavors of your favorite herbs. Start by thoroughly cleaning and drying the herbs. Fill a sterilized glass bottle with the herbs and then pour in your choice of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Seal the bottle tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for several weeks, allowing the herbs to infuse the vinegar. After the infusion period, strain the vinegar to remove the herbs and transfer the flavored vinegar to a clean bottle or jar. Keep the herb vinegar in the refrigerator for up to six months, using it to add a delightful herbal tang to salads and marinades.
Herb Oil Cubes:
Herb-infused oil cubes are a fantastic way to infuse dishes with the essence of fresh herbs while keeping them handy in the freezer. Finely chop the herbs of your choice and place them into the compartments of an ice cube tray. Fill each section with olive oil or your preferred oil, ensuring the herbs are well-submerged. Freeze the tray until the cubes are solid. Once frozen, transfer the herb oil cubes to a resealable freezer bag, labeled with the herb type and date. Use these cubes to add instant flavor to sauces, sautés, and roasted vegetables.
Herb Purées:
For delicate herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley, turning them into herb purées before freezing is a fantastic option. Wash and thoroughly dry the herbs before blending them with a little oil or water until you get a smooth consistency. Pour the purée into ice cube trays or small containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing. Once frozen, transfer the cubes or portions to labeled freezer-safe bags or containers. These herb purées are perfect for soups, stews, and salad dressings, providing a burst of fresh herb flavor.
Herb Butter:
Herb butter is a delicious and versatile way to freeze and preserve herbs. Finely chop your chosen herbs and mix them thoroughly with softened butter. Shape the herb butter into a log or press it into small molds before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper. Place the wrapped herb butter in a labeled resealable bag or airtight container before storing it in the freezer. When needed, slice a piece of the herb butter and let it melt over grilled meats, fish, or steamed vegetables, adding a luscious herbal twist to your dishes.
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Gardening Tips & Advice

The ultimate guide to when to plant vegetables and why

 

Planting vegetables at the right time is crucial for a successful harvest. Knowing the best times to plant will ensure that your plants have optimal growing conditions, leading to healthy and productive growth. Understanding the climate, soil conditions, and individual growing requirements of each vegetable will help you make informed decisions on when to plant and how to care for your plants.
By planting at the right time, you can also extend your growing season, allowing you to enjoy fresh, home-grown produce for longer. In addition, planting at the right time can help prevent problems such as disease and insect infestations, which can greatly affect the health and yield of your plants. With the right information and a little planning, you can have a productive and successful vegetable garden.
Tomatoes
Best planted in late spring (May to June) to early summer (June to July), after the last frost date. They need warm soil and sunny conditions to grow. Harvest when the tomatoes are fully ripe and have reached their desired size, usually in late summer (August to September) or early fall.
Onions
Onions are a versatile and widely used vegetable that can be grown in various regions. They are typically planted in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September) and prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Onions form bulbs underground, and their green tops, known as scallions or green onions, can be harvested at any stage of growth. For mature onions, they are ready to be harvested when the tops start to yellow and fall over. This usually occurs in late summer (August to September) or early fall. Once harvested, onions should be cured by drying them in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area to promote storage and improve their flavor. Onions are a staple ingredient in numerous cuisines and add flavor and depth to a wide range of dishes, making them an essential vegetable for both culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs.
Peppers
Also best planted in late spring (May to June) to early summer (June to July), after the last frost date. Peppers also need warm soil and full sun. Harvest when the peppers have turned their mature color and have reached the desired size, usually in late summer (August to September) or early fall.
Squash
Summer squash, such as zucchini, are best planted in late spring (May to June) to early summer (June to July). Winter squash, such as pumpkin, can be planted in late summer (July to August) for a fall harvest. Harvest summer squash when they are still young and tender, usually in mid to late summer (July to August). Harvest winter squash when the skin has hardened and can’t be easily punctured with a fingernail, usually in late fall (September to October).
Carrots
Carrots can be planted in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September), when the soil is cool. They grow best in well-drained soil and full sun. Harvest carrots when they have reached the desired size and color, usually around 60 to 80 days after planting, depending on the variety. For spring-planted carrots, harvest in late spring to early summer (May to June), and for late summer-planted carrots, harvest in late fall (October to November) or early winter.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-season crop and can be planted in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September). It grows best in moderate temperatures and partial shade. Harvest broccoli when the heads are firm and compact, but before the yellow flowers open. This is usually around 60 to 80 days after planting. For spring-planted broccoli, harvest in late spring to early summer (May to June), and for late summer-planted broccoli, harvest in late fall (October to November) or early winter.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a warm-season crop and can be planted in late spring (May to June), after the last frost date. They need full sun and well-drained soil to grow. Harvest cucumbers when they have reached the desired size and are still firm and green. This is usually around 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety. Harvest throughout the summer (June to August) until the vines start to decline.
Lettuce
Lettuce can be planted in early spring (March to April) or fall (September to October), when the soil is cool. It grows best in moderate temperatures and partial shade. Harvest lettuce when the leaves are large enough to use, but before they become bitter or start to bolt. This is usually around 30 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety. For spring-planted lettuce, harvest in late spring to early summer (May to June), and for fall-planted lettuce, harvest in late fall (October to November) or early winter.
Beans
Beans are a warm-season crop and can be planted in late spring (May to June), after the last frost date. They need full sun and well-drained soil to grow. Harvest green beans when the pods are young, tender, and before the seeds inside have fully developed. This is usually around 50 to 60 days after planting. Harvest throughout the summer (July to August) until the plants stop producing.
Radishes
Radishes are a cool-season crop and can be planted in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September). They grow best in cool soil and full sun. Harvest radishes when the roots have reached the desired size and are firm and crisp. This is usually around 20 to 30 days after planting. For spring-planted radishes, harvest in late spring to early summer (May to June), and for late summer-planted radishes, harvest in late summer (September to October) or early fall.
Beets
Beets can be planted in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September), when the soil is cool. They grow best in well-drained soil and full sun. Harvest beets when the roots have reached the desired size and are firm and tender. This is usually around 50 to 70 days after planting. For spring-planted beets, harvest in late spring to early summer (May to June), and for late summer-planted beets, harvest in late fall (October to November) or early winter.
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Gardening Tips & Advice

Don’t toss out the old cement block. Here are 10 fantastic ways to use them in your garden

Cement blocks are often underrated. These heavy, bland pieces of concrete can be a bit cumbersome to lug around, so people tend to overlook them or purposely skip over them in favor of items that are a little easier to use. After you check out how the blocks can be used in a garden, you might rethink their utility.
Cement blocks are readily available at most home improvement stores for about $1 apiece, making this versatile material affordable as well.
1. Raised garden beds
One of the most popular uses for cinder blocks in the garden is to create a raised garden bed. Dozens of cool designs exist for this use (explore options at Off Grid World), and because cinder blocks are sturdy, they’ll likely last several years. When cinder blocks break down (and they will over time), they can leach lime into the soil. To avoid this, line the inside of the garden bed with plastic.
2. Planters
Instead of building an entire garden, use the individual blocks as flower planters. You can place them sideways on the ground or build them into a small wall with Liquid Nails. Try painting the blocks different colors for a fun look or leave them natural.
3. Create a seating area
Create an amazing seating area in the backyard by stacking two or three levels of blocks (depending on how tall you want it). Top with a long bench cushion and decorative pillows.
4. Build a firepit
Create your own backyard firepit on a budget (less than $100) by stacking cement blocks on a concrete pad. Check out how easy this project is with tips from HGTV.
5. Build a garden wall
Create a functional garden wall with a little creativity and a lot of cinder blocks. A plus is that the next windstorm probably won’t blow it over. Watch the complete DIY video from DIY Network. ​.
6. Patio bench
If you like the idea of using cinder blocks for a bench but want something a little lighter, try standing several blocks on end (you’ll need six for each end) and slide wooden 4-by-4s through the holes to form a seating area. Add color and pillows, including a bench cushion, to brighten it up.
7. Create a decorative tower
Does your garden need a tall punch of color? Try stacking cement blocks into a tower. (You’ll want to make sure they’re stable and cemented together.) Decorate the tower with paint, cutouts and beads.
8. Build a garden fence
Use stacked blocks to create a fence around the garden. You can create wider or narrower spaces in the fence by strategically placing the posts through the holes.
9. Stairs
Add simple stairs to the backyard by stacking cinder blocks down an incline. You’ll need to measure and plan, but you will still save a lot of time if you don’t have to make traditional stairs. Fill the inside with colorful stones. Check out how to create these stairs at Step by Step.
10. Create a garden border
Keep the soil or rocks in your garden and off the rest of your yard by using cement blocks to create a unique garden edge. The results can be quite charming, especially if you decide to grow other plants inside the blocks.
Have you tried any of these ideas? Share the tips with your friends on Facebook to show just how versatile a cinder block can be.