What to Grow in Your Plant in March?

Plant salad greens, tomatoes, lettuce, and cauliflower in a covered area. Peas, carrots, beets, summer and fall cabbage, herbs, spinach, spring onions, beans can all be sown outside. Starting to plant potatoes, onions and garlic is also a smart idea.

Repot Houseplants

Before growth starts, make sure to carefully remove the plant from its pot and move it into the next bigger-sized pot to make room for growth. While repotting, make sure to untangle any tangled roots and shake off all the remaining soil from the old pot to make sure the roots are ready to anchor into the new potting mix. Replant in MahaGro Organic Potting mix which has all the nutrients required and also retains moisture.

Get Pruning

Light pruning will do the job of keeping the shrubs and trees in shape and within their space. Apart from this, pruning is also beneficial for the strong and healthy growth of the plant. When you remove all the dead and diseased branches, the plant’s energy doesn’t get wasted on them and is instead channeled into new, healthy growth. Another tip is to remove all the downward-pointing branches that will eventually get damaged when they make contact with the ground.

Clear the Flowerbeds

Clear out all the weeds and unwanted plants from the flowerbed to make room for the new, desired plants. Most weeds and small plants don’t require herbicides or any chemicals for removal. You can easily pull them out of the ground by using your hands. However, make sure to wear gloves for this task. Remove the weed from the roots itself so that there is no chance of it growing back again in 4 days.

For dead and decaying plants, you can use a spade or shovel to dig them out of the ground. But first, loosen up the ground by adding some water to it to make your work easier. Make sure the roots are completely removed. Then use these dug-up plants as fertilizers and add them to the soil along with manure to make it healthy and ready for newcomers.

Use Potting Mix Heavily

After you are done clearing up the flowerbed, start mulching with the help of cocopeat potting mix like MahaGro Potting Mix. Potting Mix helps in controlling weed growth, retaining moisture in the soil, and enriching it with nutrients. Make sure you have 2-3 inches of potting mix on top of normal soil to avoid weed growth.

Protect Your Garden

With the changing warm weather come irritating insects hungry for plants. To keep out the critters, here are some things you can do:

• Pick out all the bigger bugs like slugs from the plants and remove them from the garden.

• Throw out the sickly plants that attract bugs like a honey traps.

• Place beneficial insects that love to munch on harmful bugs such as ladybugs, honeybees and dragonflies.

• Use organic insecticides like garlic spray and salt spray to drive out the smaller bugs.

• You can even consider netting your plants for better security.

 

February gardening is also known as spring gardening. The outside atmosphere is cold, but some plants can be grown outdoors and some in greenhouse atmosphere or indoors. Here is the list of all the fruits, vegetables, and flowers that can be sown & grown in the month of February.

February is the end month of winters. There are plenty of fruits, vegetables and flowers that grow in this month. February gardening is also known as spring gardening. Outside atmosphere is cold, but some plants can be grown outdoors and some in green house atmosphere or indoors.

Here is the list of all the fruits, vegetables and flowers that can be sown & grown in the month of February.

Vegetables to be sown in February

Here is the list of vegetable crops to be sown in the February month-

1. Broad beans, carrots, early beetroots, lettuce, green salad onions, peas, radish, spinach, summer cabbage are some of the crops that can be grown under cloches in February month.

2. Garlic, Shallots. Hardy board beans are some crops that can be grown outdoors in the month of February, but make sure that the soil is not frozen.

3. Early potatoes, cucumber, tomato seeds, peas, basil, brassicas, cauliflower, sweet peppers are some vegetables and crops that can be grown in the month of February in Green house conditions or indoors.

Fruits to be Grown in the Month of February

Here is the list of fruits that can be grown in the month of February.

1. Raspberry canes, red-currants, white-currants, black-currants and blackberries can be planted in the month of February, but make sure the soil is not frozen.

2. Bare-root strawberry, stone fruits such as apricots, peaches, nectarines, and gooseberries can be grown in the month of February.

3. Rhubarb crowns can be grown in the month of February in sunny position.

Flowers to be Grown in the Month of February

Here is the list of flowers that can be grown in the month of February.

1. Lilies, allium bulbs can be grown in both autumn and spring. So February is the best month to plant lilies and allium bulbs outdoors.

2. Bare root roses, some winter flowering shrubs including daphane, witch hazel, dawn can be planted in February.

3. Begonia tubers, antirrhinums, dahlia tubers, geraniums, chrysanthemum plants can be grown in February month in greenhouse conditions or indoors.

Good news, these plants can help purify the air in your home!

Raise your hand if you’ve a) casually referred to yourself as a plantita; b) bought at least one potted plant throughout the pandemic; and/or c) you’ve seriously considered buying a plant, you just haven’t yet. If you were able to relate to at least one description above, well, you’re definitely not alone—and that’s a good thing!

Buying and taking care of plants is definitely a top Trend That Started During the COVID-19.

Sometimes caring for your plants feels like a full time job. There's so much to remember, from feeding your plants to making sure they get enough sunlight. To make it just a little bit easier for you, we try to break down exactly when you should water the most common houseplants. But first, here are a few general rules to remember.

Think of soil like a dry sponge, it repels water at first rather than immediately absorbing it. "If you’ve ever watered a plant, and the water immediately came through the bottom, then you have not watered that plant. The water went around the soil, not into it, and for many plants, it’s wise to have drainage, because you can soak them to be sure that they are absorbing the water.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the amount of water your little green baby needs depends on its size. Smaller plants need more attention and frequent waterings than larger plants. Additionally, plants that get more sunlight also need to be watered more frequently. As a general rule, "the amount of water to use is always about ¼ to ⅓ the pot’s volume of water." And if after all that you're still confused, here are a few parting words of wisdom for you: "When in doubt, feel the soil!"

 

Peace lilies are one of the most common houseplants because they’re easy to grow and beautiful, too! Here’s everything you need to know about caring for a peace lily in your home.

ABOUT PEACE LILIES

Peace lilies are tropical, evergreen plants that thrive on the forest floor, where they receive dappled sunlight and consistent moisture. Replicating these conditions in the home is the key to getting your peace lily to be happy and healthy.

With enough light, peace lilies may produce white to off-white flowers in the early summer and continue to bloom throughout the year. 

Most household varieties of peace lily grow up to 16 inches tall, but larger outdoor cultivars can reach 6 feet in height. Peace lilies are not cold-hardy plants, so they may only be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates.

IS THE PEACE LILY PLANT POISONOUS?

Yes. All parts of the peace lily plant contain calcium oxalate—a substance that may cause stomach and respiratory irritation if ingested in large amounts. Keep peace lilies out of reach of small children and pets.

Ad: Best gardening soil for your plants @ ₹699 only

 

PLANTING

CARE

HOW TO CARE FOR A PEACE LILY

• Keep the soil moist, but do not over water. Peace lilies can tolerate short periods of dry soil, but their leaves will start to brown if neglected for too long.
• Peace lilies are sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, such as fluoride, which may cause brown leaf tips. Use filtered, room-temperature water, if possible. 
• Peace lilies enjoy high humidity. Misting their leaves or placing their pot atop a moistened tray of gravel can help to increase humidity. 
• Peace lilies are not heavy feeders, so fertilize only occasionally. To encourage spring and summer growth, fertilize every 6 weeks or so with a balanced houseplant fertilizer starting in late winter.
• Peace lilies are a tropical plant, so keep them in temperatures above 16°C and away from cold, drafty windows. They do best in temperatures upwards of 21°C.
• Keep these plants out of direct afternoon sunlight, but in a well-lit area. An east-facing window is ideal, as they will be exposed to the warmth of the morning sun but avoid the intensity of mid-day rays. 

HOW TO GET PEACE LILIES TO FLOWER

• Most often, if no flowers are appearing, the plant is not getting enough light. Peace lilies are very tolerant of low light, but low light does not mean no light! To encourage flowering, move the plant to a brighter location, where it will receive bright, indirect light.
• Green flowers, weak-looking flowers, or a general lack of flowers can be caused by improper fertilizing. In the case of green flowers, cut back on fertilizing. In the case of weak-looking flowers or a lack of flowers, try switching to a fertilizer made for flowering plants. This type of fertilizer will have a higher amount of phosphorous, which plants need for blooming. 

Ad: Best gardening soil for your plants @ ₹699 only

PESTS/DISEASES

RECOMMENDED VARIETIES

WIT & WISDOM

1. Seasonal plants endure the weather better

Watermelons make for great summer plants. 

Plants are essentially seasonal beings. Some plants are best grown in winter, while others thrive in the sunny days. With proper hydration and manure, chillies, cucumbers, brinjals and watermelon are ideal plants for the season and can even be grown in pots.

2. A ‘shade’ in time saves nine

A garden shade.

Invest in a shade cloth for your plants, easily available in online stores and horticultural dealerships. The fabric thickness may vary; choose the fabric according to the plants of your garden. Install it over the trees and/or partially on the sides.

3. Water plants at the right hour

The best time to water your plants during summer is early morning or evening. The water is cooler during these hours. The best time to put on your gardening cap? Before 10am or post 4pm.

4. Shower your plants in small doses

Water sprinklers, or buckets and mugs, make for efficient watering tools. 

Eschew the water hose for sprinklers or mugs. Summers are accompanied by dry spells — with growing water scarcity, it’s important to use the most economical means of watering plants.

5. Plants can be friends too

Bigger, sturdier plants can often help to provide shade for smaller and more delicate greens. Consider it a buddy system for your garden, and plan the arrangement of trees with this strategy in mind.

6. Keep tab on soil moisture

There is such a thing as too much water for your plants. Before you turn on the sprinkler, check to see if the soil is moist under the surface. Wait till the soil is somewhat drier, or simply sprinkle water on the leaves and branches.

Also read: Benefits of Using Citrus Peel in Your Garden

7. Still waters run deep

Prevent water from stagnating, whether on the soil or pots and trays. Standing water can pave the way for a mosquito infestation in addition to giving your beloved plants an H2O overdose.

8. A splash of colour

Bougainvilleas love summer. 

Flowering plants will help add some colour to a summer garden. Zinnia, bougainvillea, marigold and roses are some of the blooms that will keep your terrace garden lively through the heat.

9. Light and shade

While most plants benefit from sunlight, the rising heat in cities can do our terrace gardens more harm than good. If you have potted plants, try moving them to an area with balanced light and shade.

10. Soil goes a long way

Along with watering the plants, potting mix helps to keep your plants — especially fruit-bearing and flowering ones — hydrated and healthy. 

11. A spot of sun for indoor plants

Though indoor plants do not require a lot of sunlight, placing them next to windows will help them thrive.

Also read: Top 10 summer flowers in India

12. Potting mix for healthy plants

The other summer must-have is potting mix, to keep it cool, prevent weeds and aid hydration. 

13. Ignore your lawn

Unfortunately, summer is no time for indulgent gardening. While plants need their hydration, big lawns will drain your home of too much water. Minimise watering and trimming during these months.

14. Snip, snip, snip

Trimming can do wonders for our hair — turns out, it can have a positive impact on plants too. Gently snip away withering or dried branches, twigs and blossoms from your plants once a week.

15. Rooftop gardening can cool you down

If you are a novice gardener, or don’t have a ready garden yet, start with planting on the rooftop. The soil will cool your home naturally, and using plastic sheets as a base will help to prevent seepage.

 Whether you live in a tiny apartment or on a large bungalow, gardening in containers is a way to add color and the beauty of nature to your surroundings.

The three main elements of creating successful containers gardens are:

1. Choosing the pots
2. Getting the right planting medium
3. Selecting the plants

In all of these elements, the key is to create a healthy growing environment for the plant roots. For a healthy root system, water must be able to pass quickly through the soil. As the water drains out, air replaces it in the soil and an exchange of carbon dioxide is made with the plant roots. This movement of water and air is essential to a healthy plant.

Also read: Homemade Organic Rose Fertilizers for Your Rose Garden

Here are some tips to help you choose from the dizzying array of pots, troughs and boxes:

A few points to consider:

Financial Cost: There are lots of options on the market if you are looking to buy – from cheap and cheerful to decorative and expensive.

Product Life: Think about the longevity of the pot you require. Is it for a short term project? If so, looks may not be important. Or is it something you’re prepared to invest in, as a design feature? Extended durability can mean less consumption of resources.

Environmental Impact: Some planter materials and construction processes drain our natural resources. Others have a smaller environmental footprint using less resources. Processes used in manufacture and transport often require significant use of fossil fuels. As a ‘conscious consumer,’ is this important to you? If so, consider making your own pots where possible. Choose pots made from sustainable materials or reuse containers creatively to grow your plants.

Time & Energy: If you have limited time, you may want to buy a planter. However, making your own by repurposing a wide range of containers into practical planters, is much easier than you think. See Repurposed Planters for loads of creative and inspiring low-cost ideas.

Pros & Cons: You may want to consider some of the advantages and disadvantages of various types of containers before you put your hand in your pocket and go shopping!

Your particular situation – there are three key factors which may also influence your decision on which kind of pot to choose.

Clay/terracotta pots are attractive and complement a wide range of foliage and flowering plants. They are the traditional potting container because, in addition to draining well, they wick moisture through their sides. This provides a drier root environment, which means less opportunity for root diseases. However, it also means more frequent watering is needed. If you tend to underwater, use terra cotta pots for only drought tolerant plants, or choose another type of container.

On the down side, clay pots can be heavy and must be protected in colder climates during the winter to prevent cracking. A glazed clay container is non-porous, creating a moisture barrier. Because this will not allow the root system to breathe, glazed pots are best used with a regular terracotta pot inside of them.

Plastic pots are inexpensive, lightweight and functional, and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours. If you don’t like the look of plastic, apply a faux finish to fool the eye, or slip the plastic pots inside other containers. With the proper soil mix and attentive watering, plants do well in plastic pots. If you tend to underwater your plants, plastic is a better choice than terra-cotta for you. However, plastic containers may need to be weighted down to stay in place on windy days.

Wood containers look good in naturalistic environments, and most plants do well in them. Wood drains better than plastic but does not have the wicking advantage of clay, and wood containers can be heavy when planted. Choose containers made of hardwood, such as redwood, cedar or cypress, which are less susceptible to rot over time. Lining wood containers with heavy-duty plastic bags will give you added protection from moisture, but you must remember to provide proper drainage.

Also read: Benefits of Using Citrus Peel in Your Garden

Metal containers can be used successfully in many modern settings. Galvanised containers are the best for planting — they won’t leach rust or chemicals into the soil. Unless the container was designed as a planter, you’ll need to add drainage holes to the bottom of the pot, or slip other pots inside it.

Quaint Accents Found items can add variety and whimsy to your container garden. If you’re going to plant directly in such items as watering cans, old boots, teapots or wheelbarrows consider drainage and air movement around the roots of the plants. Now that you chosen the perfect containers, you need to select the planting medium and the plants. Go fill your world with beautiful plants!

Location: Pick the spot for your garden first and then find a container to suit it. For example, a quaint wooden trough would not suit a modern balcony, nor would classic urn shaped pots be the best choice for an informal garden. In addition to style considerations, give attention to size and proportion issues.

Weight: Consider the weight of the container — not only empty, but filled with wet soil and plants. If there is a strong prevailing breeze across your outdoor space, the container must be heavy enough to prevent it from tipping over. On the other hand, the structure on which the containers are placed must be able to support them.

Also read: Top 10 summer flowers in India

WRAPPING UP FROM LAST MONTH

COMPOSTING INGREDIENT

Citrus peels are a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If you make your own traditional compost at home, throw them in your composting bin. Make sure to chop them into tiny bits before composting as it will degrade faster. If however, you do your own vermicomposting, it is best to avoid using peels in that, as many worms will not eat them.

PEST REPELLENT

Pests can play havoc with your plants and since you want to avoid using chemical pesticides, citrus peels offer a natural solution. Simply place the peels near the affected plant or near an affected area of the plant. Most pests like aphids strongly dislike the smell of the citrus and will vacate the plant.

(This will only work on mild infestations. You may need to use other organic options to rid yourself of larger infestations.) If you have a pet cat or dog, the peels will definitely keep them away from your plants as well.

ACIDIFY THE SOIL

Some plants like radishes and peppers love an acidic soil. If you have acid loving plants in your garden, dry the citrus peels, powder them and sprinkle them in the soil. This will increase the acidity of the soil and supply it with other nutrients as well.

GET RID OF ANTS

Ants can be a real problem in a terrace garden, especially since the tend to damage the plant roots and protect pests like aphids from getting attacked by ladybugs. Lemon peels are the natural enemies of ants and adding these to your plants is a great, non toxic way to get rid of the buggers.

SEED STARTER

If you’re in need of an organic seed starter, you can use the citrus peel as a base for your seedlings to hatch. Just poke a small hole at the bottom of the peel for drainage, fill it with a good potting mix, add your seeds and sprinkle some water and when your seedlings are ready or transplanting, just put the seedling, peel and all into the soil. The peel will compost directly in the soil and add further nourishment to the plant as it grows.

MOSQUITO REPELLENT

Mosquitoes apparently hate the smell of citrus. If you want to get rid of them, rub the peels on your skin or place them around your garden or patio and you should keep them away. I haven’t tried this myself, but if you did, let me know how you fared in the comments section.

ATTRACT BUTTERFLIES

Citrus peels may be a turn off for some creatures, but it can attract butterflies to your garden. Just leave the peels in a shallow dish and their sweet scent and leftover juices will attract the butterflies. This will add some color and ambiance to your garden and help in pollinating your plants as well.

MAKE AN ORGANIC BIRD FEED

If you love to have the birds stopping by your garden, you can make a homemade bird feeder using Citrus peels. 

Know any more handy uses and benefits of using citrus peel in your garden? Let us know in the comments section

 

ORGANIC ROSE FERTILIZERS YOU CAN FIND RIGHT INSIDE YOUR KITCHEN

USED TEA BAGS OR LEAVES

Tea leaves are full of naturally occurring tannins. Tannins are acidic in nature and when added to the soil makes it acidic in nature as well. This is exactly what the roses need as they thrive exceedingly well in acidic soil. Tea leaves also contain small amounts of nitrogen, which help in plant growth.

So if you’re a tea drinker, don’t discard those tea bags yet. Just collect and dump them in your compost and apply  the compost as a top dressing. Or soak the used teabags in water for a few hours and water the plants with it. Or you can simply remove the spent tea leaves from the bags and spread it on the top soil. Just remember though, that tea leaves by themselves are not a full rose food substitute.

EGG SHELLS

Egg shells are a great source of calcium. Calcium helps to strengthen plant cells and block pathogens from entering the plant body. Calcium also helps strengthen the roots of plants allowing them to absorb more nutrients from the soil. Besides nitrogen and potassium, roses require large amounts of calcium to grow well.

Since egg shells are slow to decompose in their original state, it is best to crush them into tiny pieces and incorporate them into the compost or soil. Before you do that though, make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly. Otherwise pathogens from the eggs might get added to the soil causing more diseases.

BANANA PEEL

Ripe banana peels are rich in potassium and therefore a great fertilizer for roses. The cool factor with banana peels is that they decompose really quickly, providing a big potassium boost to the plant. Potassium boosts the immune system of plants and protects against disease and insect damage. It also helps the plant survive difficult climatic conditions such as drought and frost. If your notice weak stems, poorly developed buds or yellow leaves with browning edges, your rose plants are telling you they need a dose of good old potassium.

If you are just planting the roses, add 2 or 3 banana peels to the soil to give the plants an early advantage. You can drop a chopped banana peel in the planting hole before placing the plant in. The peel can also be added with the compost to improve the richness of the soil. If you have a plant that is already well established, you can simply drop a banana peel or chopped peel in the soil next to the plant.

Here is a quick homemade food for roses.

BANANA EGG SHELL ROSE FERTILIZER RECIPE

Ingredients:

• Overripe bananas  – 3
• Eggshells (washed and dried) – 3
• Water : half a litre

Chop the bananas. Crush the egg shells. In a blender, add the chopped bananas, crushed eggshells and water. Blend on high speed until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Pour 1 cup of the mixture around the base of the rose plant. Apply this concoction every month regularly when the roses are growing.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Rose plants are prone to black spot disease, especially if you live in warm humid climates. Its a disease that afflicts most rose varieties, spreads quickly and is quite hard to get rid off. If you start to notice yellowing of the leaves and small black dots on the leaves and the stems, you’re plant has most likely caught the fungus.

If your plant is inflicted with this fungal disease, a simple solution of vinegar and water should help you treat and get rid of it.

ROSE BLACK SPOT REMOVAL RECIPE 1

Ingredients:

• Apple Cider Vinegar  – 3 tablespoons
• Water : 4.5 litres

Mix the Apple Cider Vinegar and water well. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray your roses heavily.  You need to spray the base, the soil the tops and bottoms of the leaves, stems and canes. The whole of the infected area should be dripping with the solution. Spray in the early morning and spray once a week until the Black Spot is gone. Keep spraying the mixture every 2 weeks to prevent any future breakout of Black Spot.

FISH BONES

Fish is rich in vitamins and minerals and that goes for fish bones too. The next time you cook fish, take out the bones, wash and dry them thoroughly and then grind them to a powder. You can the sprinkle them around the base of the rose bushes. These add nutrients to the soil slowly boosting stronger roots and resulting in better plant growth.

MILK POWDER

The unassuming milk powder in your kitchen is packed with calcium, which helps in root and foliage growth. Milk powder has often been used on roses to reduce black spots and keep off powdery mildew. It does this by altering the pH of the infected area and making it hostile for fungal growth. Simply mix two parts of water to one part milk and spray the mixture every two weeks.

PET FOOD

If you have a cat or dog at home, chances are, you’re feeding it nourishing pet food. If your pet food has gone stale or is nearing the expiry date, you don’t have to throw it away. Simply mix it with the garden soil and water thoroughly. Over time, it will disintegrate and decompose naturally, adding micro-nutrients to the soil. Just make sure to cover the soil well or other animals will dig them up.

WATER FROM BOILING VEGETABLES

Water that you use for cooking your vegetables are also good sources of minerals and nutrients. Don’t throw them away if you’re not using them in your meals. Cool the water and then water your rose plants with it. Just remember that you cannot reuse the water if it contains salt in it.

BAKING SODA

The humble baking soda in your kitchen also finds good use in the rose garden. It is used to treat plants infected by black spots and powdery mildew.

ROSE BLACK SPOT REMOVAL RECIPE 2

Ingredients:

• Baking powder – 1 tablespoon
• Liquid soap – 1/2 teaspoon
• Water : 4.5 litres

Combine this mixture and spray it on the plants. Although effective, this mixture can sometimes cause leaf burn. Apply it in a small area and if no harm is done, go ahead and spray fully over the infected region. Reapply this solution once a week until the black spots are fully removed. And once every two weeks to prevent a further breakout.

ROSE SPRAY RECIPE FOR PEST AND DISEASE FREE PLANT

• Vinegar  – 1 tablespoons
• Water : 4.5 litres
• Baking soda : 1 and a half tablespoons
• Dish wash soap : 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon

Mix all these ingredients together and spray it on your rose foliage once a week or twice a week, especially just after the rains to keep the plant free from pests and diseases.

If you like the blog please share it. It will encourage us to write more useful articles.

Read: February Gardening tips

SPINACH

The lush green leafy spinach is rich in iron, vitamins and plenty of antioxidants. Spinach can be harvested in 6-8 weeks after sowing and the cool January weather is a perfect time for starting a spinach garden.

BRINJALS

Whether fat, long, white, or striped, brinjals are a great vegetable to grow in January. They need at least 6 hours of sunlight, rich soil, and good drainage. I have about 4 pots of brinjals, each plant carrying at least 4-5 brinjals. They grow quick and you can harvest them in a matter of weeks.

OKRA

Another must have in your vegetable garden is the Okra. It grows well in any type of soil and enjoys warm humid conditions for fertile growth. If you’re having frosty conditions in your area, it is best to avoid growing it for now. Ideally the best times to grow are from Jan-Mar. Make sure to also include highly rich compost soil for growing okras.

CUCUMBERS

Cucumbers require at least a month to bear fruit, which makes January an ideal time to start planting them. Cucumbers grow quickly and are climbers so make sure you have a trellis on which they can climb. Cucumbers need full sun and plenty of water so make sure you have these conditions before you sow the seeds.

CAPSICUMS OR BELL PEPPERS

Capsicum is a cool season crop and January is still a reasonably good time to start growing them. Make sure you transplant the seedlings once they have 4 to 5 leaves on them. You can learn more about the growing conditions for capsicum before sowing. I used seeds from a store bought vegetable but you need to make sure the seeds are wholesome and dry before sowing.

BOTTLE GOURD AND BITTER GOURD

Bitter gourds and bottle gourds are also ideal to sow in January.  By the time the warm and hot weather starts, the plants will be ready to deliver their best yield. These are easy to grow plants. Just give them a well drained soil, proper sunlight and they’ll be happy.

Both plants don’t like the frost so if you live up in the north of India, this may not be an ideal planting time yet. However, if you live in the plains with little chances of frost, go ahead and start sowing them for a summer harvest. Remember to set up a trellis for the plants to climb up when they grow.

Do you plan to grow any of these vegetables this month? Let us know in the comments section.

Container gardening with flowers is a great way to instantly introduce color, fragrance, and beauty into our lives. It makes flowers part of any landscape—even on a deck, patio, porch, or balcony. See our tips.

CONTAINER GARDENING TIPS

• Be sure that any container you use has drainage holes.
• Avoid small containers. They often can’t store enough water to get through hot days. Large pots also insulate roots better.
• Clay pots are usually more attractive than plastic ones, but plastic pots retain moisture better. Consider a plastic pot inside a larger clay pot. Cover rim with potting soil.
• New lightweight containers, such as those made of fiberglass, plastic, or foam composites, also make moving pots easier.
• Use soil-free potting mix; not only is it light, but the fluffy blend provides roots with more oxygen and nutrients.
• Geraniums, nasturtiums, and petunias are classic, colorful container plants.
• Plant pansies in pots outdoors in early spring.

HOW TO PLANT

• To plant, place the container where you want your flower to grow. Be sure it receives enough sun.
• Add a one-inch layer of fine gravel, horticultural charcoal, or clay pot shards to the bottom of the container so that water doesn’t collect.
• Fill the container ⅔ full with soil-free potting mix.
• With your hands, make a hole in the potting mix about the diameter of the pot.
• Knock the flower out of its pot, spread its roots slightly, and place it in the hole.
• Add more potting mix to bring the level up to 2 inches below the container top.
• Water gently, press the mix to reduce air pockets, add more mix if necessary, than water again.
• Feed container plants at least twice a month with organic fertilizer, following the instructions on the label.
• Keep the planting medium moist. The container plant is totally at your mercy for water.
• As winter approaches in cold climates, you’ll need to store the container flowers inside.

PERENNIALS FOR POTS

Astilbe, bee balm, bergenia, bleeding heart, coneflower, evening primrose, hosta, hybrid daylily, Maltese cross, speedwell, and tansy

ANNUALS FOR POTS

Begonia, browallia, dusty miller, fuchsia, lobelia, marigold, morning glory, portulaca, snapdragon, statice, sweet alyssum, and sweet pea

Getting rid of them can be even more frustrating, especially if they keep coming back, but there are things you can do. Read on to find out how to get rid of ants in container plants and keep them gone.

Ants in a Houseplant

Believe it or not, ants don’t usually attack plants outright. They are most likely not after your plant, but rather aphids, scales or mealybugs – tiny insects that can harm your plant. Ants love feeding on honeydew, the sweet and nutritious excrement these insects produce, so they’ll actually work to protect the pests from their natural enemies. Ants in a houseplant are a sign that your plant has other problems, and that they’re going to get worse.

Getting Rid of Ants in Potted Plants

The most effective way of getting rid of ants in potted plants is by using neem oil. Next, take the plant outside and submerge it to just above the surface of the soil in a solution of 1 to 2 tablespoons neem oil to 1 liter water. Let it sit for 20 minutes. This should kill any ants living in the soil. Brush off any ants still on the plant itself. Remove the plant from the solution and let it drain thoroughly.

Getting Rid of Ants in Container Plants Naturally

If you don’t like the idea of putting chemicals on your plant, there are some more natural solutions you can try.

• Ants don’t like citrus. Squeeze a lemon in the direction of your plant so that the juice spritzes out. This should help to repel the ants.
• To make a more heavy-duty citrus repellent, boil the peels of half a dozen oranges in water for fifteen minutes. Blend the peels and water in a food processor and pour the mixture around your plants.
• Make your own soap solution with 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap in liter of warm water. Spray it on and around your plant. Soaps containing peppermint oil are particularly effective.
• Spices such as cinnamon, cloves, chili powder, coffee grounds, or dried mint tea leaves can be scattered around the base of the plant to deter ants too.

How to Keep Ants Out of Houseplants

It’s important to clean up any spills in your kitchen and make sure food is stored securely. If ants come into your house for another reason, they’re more likely to discover your plants or set up camp inside.

Vitamin D and Diabetes

According to recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, there could be good reasons to believe that a lack of vitamin D could increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. It should be noted that the study did not find conclusive evidence that vitamin D deficiency was the actual cause of diabetes development but they did find some level of association among those who participated. Regardless of how much of an impact vitamin D has, there are still other great benefits that one could obtain by doing some outdoor gardening. The vitamin D that comes from natural sunlight promotes a number of important health benefits such as bone and muscle maintenance. Even if it is not from gardening, you should always look to spend some time doing outdoor activities!

Exercise and Diabetes

Gardening could definitely be a stress-free way of getting your daily workout. This report found that gardening work could burn 250 – 500 calories per hour. This means 3 hours of gardening could equal the intensity of a one-hour gym session. The gym is not made for everybody but exercise is extremely important for diabetes prevention and care. The good thing about gardening is the fact that you can easily scale out the intensity of the overall session. For example, if you are aware that you could suffer from a condition like hypoglycemia then you could start off small and slowly work your way up to a comfortable-enough level. Gardening activities such as soil tilling and even some minor plant maintenance could provide valuable exercise opportunities for people with diabetes.

Reducing Stress Levels

Gardening could be a very effective way of reducing stress levels. The study found that those who participated in 30 minutes of outdoor gardening saw a notable drop in the level of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. As someone who does gardening on a daily basis, there is nothing as soothing as watching your plants grow and mature. Gardening requires a minor level of effort but the final rewards are astounding. Gardening could also provide great social opportunities, which could be an indirect cause of reducing stress levels. Connect with your local gardening communities and start getting the feel good factor of gardening.

Super Foods for Diabetes

The last benefit speaks for itself. Gardening gives you the opportunity to grow your own vegetables and fruits, especially ones that are known to be non-starchy. These days, it’s not so easy to trust where and what goes into supermarket goods so why not grow things on your own? Follow organic gardening principles and you won’t have to worry about ingesting unwanted chemicals.



Sugarcane plants are a genus of tall tropically growing perennial grasses from the family Poaceae. These fibrous stalks, rich in sugar, cannot survive in areas with cold winters. So, how then do you grow them? Let’s find out how to grow sugarcanes.

Sugarcane Plant Info

A tropical grass native to Asia, sugarcane plants have been grown for over 4,000 years. Their first use was as a “chewing cane” in Melanesia, probably in New Guinea, from the indigenous strain Saccharum robustum. Sugarcane was then introduced into Indonesia and the farther reaches of the Pacific via the early Pacific islanders. During the sixteenth century, Christopher Columbus brought sugarcane plants to the West Indies and eventually the indigenous strain evolved into Saccharum officinarum and other varieties of sugarcane. Today, four species of sugarcane are interbred to create the giant canes grown for commercial manufacturing and account for about 75 percent of the world’s sugar. Growing sugarcane plants was at one time a huge cash crop for areas of the Pacific but is now more often grown for bio-fuel in the American and Asian tropics. Growing sugarcanes in Brazil, the highest producer of sugarcane, is quite lucrative as a high proportion of fuel for cars and trucks there is ethanol processed from sugarcane plants. Unfortunately, growing sugarcanes has caused significant environmental damage to areas of grasslands and forests as sugarcane plant fields replace natural habitats.

Growing sugarcanes encompasses about 200 countries which produce 1,324.6 million tons of refined sugar, six times that of sugar beet production. Growing sugarcanes is not solely produced for sugar and bio-fuel, however. Sugarcane plants are also grown for molasses, rum, soda and cachaca, Brazilian’s national spirit. The remnants of sugarcane post pressing are called bagasse and are useful as a source of burnable fuel for heat and electricity.

How to Grow Sugarcanes

To grow sugarcanes, one must reside in a tropical climate such as Hawaii, Florida and Louisiana. Sugarcane is grown in limited quantities in Texas and a few other Gulf Coast states as well. As sugarcanes are all hybrids, sugarcane planting is done using stalks garnered from a favorable species mother plant. These in turn sprout, creating clones which are genetically identical to the mother plant. Because the sugarcane plants are multi-species, using seeds for propagation would result in plants that differ from the mother plant; hence, vegetative propagation is utilized. Although interest in developing machinery to reduce labor costs has taken hold, generally speaking, hand planting takes place from late August to January.

Sugarcane Care

Sugarcane plant fields are replanted every two to four years. After the first year’s harvest, the second round of stalks, called a ratoon, begins to grow from the old. After each harvest of the sugarcane, the field is burned off until such time as production levels decline. At that time, the field will be plowed under and the ground prepared for a new crop of sugarcane plants. Sugarcane care is accomplished with cultivation and herbicides to control weeds in the plantation. Supplemental fertilization is often needed for optimal growth of the sugarcane plants. Water may occasionally be pumped from the field after heavy rains, and in turn, may be pumped back in during drier seasons.

How to grow Zinnia Flowers and Zinnia Care

 Zinnia flowers (Zinnia Elegans) are very colorful and an addition to your garden that it will make it vibrant. With so many different colors and growing habits such as tall and dwarf, planting zinnias in your garden is worth it. In this article, you will learn how to plant zinnias in your garden.

There are lots of zinnia varieties to choose from.
Zinnia F1 Hybrid Tall
Liliput Zinnia
Zinnia Yellow Flame

How to grow Zinnia Plants

Growing zinnia doesn’t cost you a bomb. In fact, it is so easy and cheap to grow zinnia, if you are starting the plants from seeds. Zinnia plants are started from seeds. You can plant zinnia seeds yourself or you can buy zinnia plants in a pack from your local plant nursery.

Starting Zinnia Seeds

Seeds of zinnia flowers have to be directly sown. They can be sown in a container where it will grow or out in the ground. Once germinated, zinnia seedlings don’t like their roots disturbed. Zinnia plants don’t transplant very well. So, if you wish to start growing zinnia plants indoors first, then plant them in small pots. So that while transplanting zinnias they don't get into transplanting shock.

While growing zinnia plants, remember to space them correctly. There are different varieties of zinnia plants. Liliput Zinnias are very small and they can be planted densely. Where as Zinnia are little bigger and need lot more space between plants.

Tips on Zinnia Care

Once the zinnia plants have started growing, pay attention to watering them. They don't like their foliage too wet. Zinnia leaves that are too wet are prone to Powdery Mildew. This is an important point to remember when it comes to zinnia care.

Zinnia plants don't need too much water and also avoid overheat watering. Keep the foliage and the flowers dry. With right amount of watering, you can keep the zinnia plants happy and flowering for a long time.

Deadheading Zinnia Plants

Deadheading is another important aspect in growing zinnia flowers. You might be wondering “What is dead heading?”. Deadheading is a gardening term used for the removal of dead flowers or spent flowers that are withering or fading away. Deadheading is done to maintain the plants appearance and also to ensure the flowering continues. It is a known fact that when a plant produces seed from its flowers( especially in Annuals), it stops growing and reduces flowering. Production of seeds somehow concludes its purpose in the world. Amazing isn’t it?

These are some of the tips on how to grow zinnia. Not just zinnias, you can apply these to many other flowers. Now you know how to grow zinnias, you can easily make a wonderful garden with zinnias. Go! grow some zinnia flowers in your garden.

1. Start Up Gardening

Don’t fret about finding a suitable plot in your backyard, simply start a container garden anywhere you’d like. Plus this way you can ensure the soil is fertile and easily prevent weeds! You’ll be more likely to follow through with your gardening if your container garden is near your back door or a window you use often. First start small, then work your way up to a bigger garden.

2. Solid Soil and Dependable Drainage

Make sure your container has good soil and drainage, which means plenty of potting mix! Creating good drainage is also very manageable. Ensure that your container garden has holes in the bottom, and then line the bottom of the container with a layer of rocks.

3. Location Location Location

Some plants are shade plants, others need sun, and yet even more plants are partial shade or sun! Don’t overlook that part. We have a easy solution. Place your container garden on wheels or a trolley, so you can move it around in the event your selected spot doesn’t get as much sunlight as you originally thought.

4. Timing and Type

If you want succeed with your garden you need to plant the right type of plants at the right time of year! Be sure to also check the seed’s information.

5. The Perfect Plants for Beginners

Some plants are just known to be easier to grow than others- plant these! For easy-to-grow produce, gardening experts recommend tomatoes, peppers, onions, chard, basil, and bush beans. Easy to grow and maintain flowers include clematis(a vine), sunflowers, dahlia’s, foxglove, roses, petunia. Just ask your local plant nursery employee to direct you to the easy growing plants plants.

6. Well Watered

Make sure you give young plants plenty of water, but always avoid wetting the plant’s leaves! Wet leaves can easily lead to mold, rot, and a sick plant! As your sprouts grow, remember that the general rule of thumb is to give plants an inch of water per week. If you keep the garden close to your house, popping outside to give your plants some water will hardly seem like any effort at all. Be on the look-out for yellow leaves that means too much water!

7. Go Organic, Really

Make organic choices with your soil, fertilizing, pest control, and even seed selection. Heirloom produce plants taste much better than mainstream varieties. Plants that are fertilized or treated with chemicals can become weak and prone to disease.

8. Trim and Prune

Trimming and pruning your plants allows for increased air circulation and fewer leaves for your to spill water on (Don’t wet the leaves! See #5!)

One of the great joys of growing your own vegetables and fruits is that you have complete control over exactly what you grow, and how you grow it. And because you can harvest and eat them when they’re perfectly ripe and fresh, none of those all-important nutrients are lost. If your priority is produce packed with nutrients, you can really up the ante.

Read on about our countdown of ten of the most nutrient-dense crops that are sure to give you the glow of good health!

10. Cucumber

Good for the heart, great for weight loss and a boon for healthy eyes, teeth and bones, zucchini is first up on our list. It’s a great source of vitamins C and A, which help to boost the immune system and guard vision.

Zucchini is very easy to grow and, when picked regularly, will give plenty of versatile fruits throughout summer. Cut them young, just 4in (10cm) long is ideal. 

9. Beans

Beans are good for your heart – and they really are! Beans are naturally high in protein and a great source of soluble fiber, which helps to reduce cholesterol. Darker beans have high levels of disease-fighting antioxidants. Add in other heart-healthy compounds such as flavonoids and it’s clear beans should be part of every vegetable garden.

Summer’s a great time to start off quick-growing beans, which are ready to pick in just six to eight weeks.

8. Kiwi Fruits

Crammed full of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, kiwis claim a catalog of health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and respiratory problems. Weight for weight kiwis contain more vitamin C than oranges, making them a very easy way to get your recommended daily allowance.

Look for a self-fertile variety if you only have the space for one kiwi vine. Grow it in a warm, sunny position against a wall.

7. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a summer favorite, with many shapes, colors and sizes to choose from. We love them for their aroma, taste – and their nutrient dense fruits – which include vitamins A, C and E, anti-inflammatory flavonoids and potassium. They’re also chock full of lycopene, which may help to prevent some cancers. Smaller, red tomatoes contain the highest concentration of lycopene.

Grow your tomatoes somewhere sunny and feed them regularly with an organic tomato fertilizer for the tastiest, healthiest tomatoes.

6. Sweet Peppers

Like tomatoes, red and orange peppers are a great source of lycopene, as well as vitamins C and A, which make sweet peppers a powerful antioxidant.

All peppers grow best in a warm, sunny position and will benefit from the protection of a greenhouse in more temperate climates. Top-heavy peppers will need tying into a central stake to keep them upright. You can pick them when they’re green, but leave them to color up for maximum taste and nutrient density.

5. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that along with others such as cauliflower and cabbage is known to contain compounds that help to inhibit cancerous cells. Folate, fiber, calcium, vitamins A and C – all of these work to improve how our bodies function, and how we feel. Very fresh broccoli is best – so it’s worth making some space to grow it.

Broccoli needs fertile potting mix that’s high in nitrogen. You can sow broccoli in summer to plant out a few weeks later, for an autumn harvest. Pick the heads while they are still tight and well-filled.

4. Raspberries

Packed with nutrients, including antioxidants and B vitamins, raspberries are an all-round boon to your health. Pick and pop the rich red berries to strengthen your immune system, prevent infections and improve eye health. Raspberries contain ellagic acid, a compound that may help to prevent some cancers.

Grow a range of both summer and autumn-fruiting types to prolong the harvest. Tie the canes into a post and wire system and add an organic mulch to lock in moisture and keep the roots cool.

3. Blueberries

Another berry positively bursting with nutrients is the beautiful, dusky blueberry. Blueberries are a well-known health booster, containing a cocktail of essential nutrients, from zinc, copper, vitamins and iron, to a hearty dose of the powerful antioxidant anthocyanin. Blueberries can boost your brain, with studies showing a link between their daily consumption and a slower advancement of Alzheimer’s.

Grow blueberries in acidic potting mix, in a sunny spot, and choose a range of early, mid and late season varieties to extend your harvest.

2. Garlic

Garlic’s the go-to staple for so many recipes. And the good news is it’s incredibly good for us! Garlic is great at boosting the immune system thanks to high levels of vitamins such as B1 and B6, and nutrients including manganese, calcium and tryptophan. It’s great for our livers and can help to maintain healthy lungs and stomach. Leave chopped or crushed garlic to sit for 20 minutes before eating to increase these benefits even further.

Garlic loves well-drained, fertile potting mix. You can plant it in fall to give an early summer crop

1. Kale

Number one on our countdown of nutrient-dense crops is kale, which along with other leafy greens such as spinach is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and antioxidants. Kale is a real nutritional powerhouse – great for the immune system, an excellent anti-inflammatory, and with its rich source of nutrients, it’s sure to give your skin, nails and hair the boost that will get you glowing!

Kale is very easy to grow. Sow in spring then plant out once the young plants are about four inches (10cm) tall. We love the strap-leaved dark Tuscan kale for both taste and nutrition.

All of these crops are intensely good for you, so try to grow a few in your own garden. Of course all fruits and vegetables have their own health benefits, so if there’s one you particularly recommend why not let us know about it in the comments section below?