Welcome The Green Life
The trend back to home gardens is beginning, be ahead of the trend.
There are a variety of reasons to grow your own food.
Know where your food comes from
Know what products are used to grow and maintain it (soil, pesticides, etc)
Gives routine responsibility with visual results
Don’t have to rely on grocery stores and supply chains
North America is divided into several growing zones based on average minimum temperatures, which are used to determine what plants can survive in a particular area.
Zone 1: The coldest zone, with an average minimum temperature of -60 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is mostly uninhabitable and not suitable for plant growth.
Zone 2: Very cold, with an average minimum temperature of -40 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is mostly uninhabitable and not suitable for plant growth.
Zone 3: Cold, with an average minimum temperature of -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is not suitable for most plants, but some hardy species can survive.
Zone 4: Cool, with an average minimum temperature of -10 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is suitable for some cold-hardy plants, but not for subtropical or tropical species.
Zone 5: Mild, with an average minimum temperature of 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is suitable for many plants, including some subtropical and tropical species.
Zone 6: Warm, with an average minimum temperature of 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is suitable for a wide range of plants, including many subtropical and tropical species.
Zone 7: Hot, with an average minimum temperature of 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is suitable for a wide range of plants, including many subtropical and tropical species.
Zone 8: Very hot, with an average minimum temperature of 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This area is suitable for a wide range of plants, including many subtropical and tropical species.
Zone 9: The hottest zone, with an average minimum temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit and above. This area is suitable for a wide range of plants, including many subtropical and tropical species.
The Magic of Gardens
In your garden, you can grow your own fruits and vegetables, which can be a really rewarding and delightful experience. When you bite into a ripe, delicious tomato or cucumber that you cultivated yourself, you can be confident that it was grown without the use of any dangerous pesticides or chemicals. It will be healthier for you and better for your taste buds as well. Additionally, having your own garden can result in long-term financial savings. By growing your own food, you'll always have access to fresh fruits and veggies without having to pay more. Fresh produce can be pricey. Additionally, gardening may be a wonderful kind of exercise and a method to unwind and decompress. You're not only giving your body nutritious food, but you're also working and enjoying it!
GREENHOUSE 101: THE BENEFITS
Extended growing season: By shielding plants from adverse weather conditions like frost, wind, and persistent rain, a greenhouse can lengthen the growing season.
Increased temperature control: Growing tropical plants or starting seedlings early in the season may benefit from using a greenhouse to control temperature and humidity conditions.
Pest and disease protection: A greenhouse can act as a barrier to keep out pests and illnesses that could be present in the environment.
Water conservation: By keeping moisture inside and lowering evaporation, a greenhouse can aid in water conservation.
Greater lighting control: Using a greenhouse to boost the light available to plants might be advantageous for growing plants that need a lot of light.
Increased yield: By providing plants with a healthy environment to develop in, a greenhouse can boost a garden's output.
Space-saving: Plants can be grown in a greenhouse in a little area.
Plant education: Students and others can learn about botany, horticulture, and sustainability in a greenhouse.
Nutrient Science
Phosphorus is a vital nutrient for plants, as it is involved in many of the plant's metabolic processes. It is essential for the initiation and development of flower buds, as well as for root growth and seed production. Phosphorus also helps in the transfer of energy within the plant and is necessary for the plant to utilize other nutrients, such as nitrogen and potassium.
Potassium, also known as potash, is another important nutrient for plants. It plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Potassium also helps to strengthen the plant's overall structure, including the stem, leaves and fruit. It also helps in water regulation, disease resistance and stress tolerance.
Both nutrients are typically applied as fertilizers, either as part of a balanced fertilization program or as a targeted treatment for specific issues. It is important to use the right amount of phosphorus and potassium, as too much or too little can have negative effects on plant growth and development. An excess of Phosphorus can lead to an imbalance of other nutrients, while an excess of Potassium can lead to toxicities.
It is important to note that the soil condition, weather and the type of plants you are growing also play a role in how much of these nutrients are needed and how often they need to be applied. A soil test can help you to determine the levels of phosphorus and potassium in your soil and make recommendations on how much fertilizer to use.
Garden Projects For Your Backyard
Raised garden beds: Raised garden beds are great for growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They help to control soil quality and drainage, and they make it easier to tend to your plants. To build a raised garden bed, you'll need some wood, screws, and a level.
Composting: Composting is a great way to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. You can make your own compost bin using a variety of materials, including wood pallets, wire mesh, and plastic bins.
Rainwater harvesting: Harvesting rainwater is a great way to conserve water and reduce your water bill. You can collect rainwater in a variety of ways, including using rain barrels or building a rain garden.
Vertical gardening: Vertical gardening is a great way to maximize your gardening space. You can create a vertical garden using a variety of materials, including pallets, PVC pipes, and hanging baskets.
Garden lighting: Garden lighting is a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your garden. You can use a variety of lighting options, including string lights, solar lights, and spotlights.
Herb garden: An herb garden is a great way to add fresh herbs to your cooking. You can plant herbs in a variety of containers, including pots, hanging baskets, and raised garden beds.
Garden trellis: A garden trellis is a great way to support climbing plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peas. You can make your own trellis using wood or PVC pipes.
Butterfly garden: A butterfly garden is a great way to attract butterflies to your garden. You can plant a variety of nectar plants and host plants to create a welcoming environment for butterflies.
Garden art: Garden art is a great way to add personality and flair to your garden. You can use a variety of materials, including glass, metal, and ceramics, to create unique and beautiful pieces.
Greenhouse: A greenhouse is a great way to extend your gardening season and grow plants that wouldn't normally thrive in your climate. You can build your own greenhouse using a variety of materials, including wood, PVC pipes, and old windows.
Products To Make Your Garden Adventure Easier
Backyard Garden Inspiration
Excited about the potential of a backyard garden but don’t know where to begin? Search below for ideas, motivation, and resources for creating your own backyard garden.