You’ve probably seen it before—your neighbor out there with a hose in hand at high noon, giving their lawn a good soaking while the sun blazes overhead. It might look productive, but here’s the truth: most people are watering their lawns, gardens, and plants at exactly the wrong time of day. And this simple mistake…
watering
The Watering Technique That Prevents Root Rot
Have you ever poured love (and way too much water) into your houseplants, only to watch them turn yellow, droopy, and—sadly—lifeless? Chances are, root rot was the culprit. It’s the silent assassin of indoor gardens everywhere, sneaking in when your watering habits go just a little too heavy-handed. But don’t toss your plant babies into…
5 Cheap Ways to Self Water Plants
Some people love the ritual of watering their plants each day. However, many of us like to simplify our schedules by setting up systems whereby plants can self water. Moreover, there might be times when you need plants to water themselves, such as when you go on vacation. It’s good to know some cheap ways…
4 Frugal DIY Drip Irrigation Systems
Buying a fancy drip irrigation system is one way to go. But it’ll cost you. Instead, consider a DIY drip irrigation system. Either way, you’ll need to spend time installing irrigation, so why not save a few bucks, too? Benefits of drip irrigation You’ve got a hose or a sprinkler, so why invest…
5 Factors That Affect Plant Growth
Many factors affect plant growth. Plants have a few basic needs. Having these needs unmet will cause them to perish. There are also factors outside of a gardener’s control that can impact how well a plant grows. While some variables are out of your control, there are things that you can influence. What affects plant growth?…
Harvesting Rainwater for the Frugal Gardener
Gardening requires quite a bit of water. For many gardeners that means an increase in their water bill during the hot summer months. Statistics show that lawn and garden watering make up at least 40% of our total household water use. Frugal gardeners, however, can take advantage of rainwater by bringing back an age-old,…
Keep the Garden Well-Watered: 5 Tried & True Tools
Years ago, when, with the help of my dad, I started my first vegetable garden, I was vaguely aware of the importance of watering plants. I watered whenever I felt like it, and whenever it seemed like my plants yearned for moisture—it turns out many of the symptoms of overwatering and under watering are shockingly…