The Truth About Fertilizer: Debunking the Myths There are a lot of myths created by marketing companies about fertilizer. Marketing has convinced people that it is some kind of magical substance that will make their plants grow big and strong overnight. The truth is, however, that fertilizer is just like any other tool- it can be used effectively or it can be misused. In this blog post, we will debunk the marketing myths about fertilizer and discuss how you can use it to improve your garden! What do the fertilizer numbers really mean? All growing plants need essential elements to […]

Hardy Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Swamp Mallow, Hibiscus moscheutos If you’re looking for a beautiful, long-blooming flower to add to your garden, look no further than the hardy hibiscus! These magnificent blooms come in a variety of colors, and can be grown in almost any climate. In this blog post, we will discuss how to grow and care for these flowers. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right variety for your needs. So read on to learn more about these amazing plants! What are Hardy Hibiscus? Hardy hibiscus are a type of flowering plant that is native to tropical and […]

When to Plant Peach Trees in Alabama When selecting a peach tree to grow in your garden, it is important to choose the variety that is best suited for your area and purpose. Peach trees are originally from China and can be temperamental with their blossoms. Some peach trees are more suitable for fresh eating, while others are better for canning and making preserves. There are hundreds of peach varieties, each one adapted to a particular region or purpose. Peach trees are best planted November until March in Alabama. Choosing the Right Peach Tree Don’t bother with a tree that […]

When to Plant Okra in Alabama Okra or Lady’s finger is a popular vegetable that is widely grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions across the world. It has been a staple food for many people in African, Asian and Indian communities for centuries. With regular care and right growing conditions, okra plants can be productive throughout the Alabama growing season, even during summer months. The key to growing okra successfully in your garden is selecting the right variety that suits the climatic conditions of your area. We’ve selected Clemson Spineless & Okinawa Pink for Alabama. The plant thrives in warm […]

When to Plant Strawberries in Alabama Before you start planting strawberry plants, it’s important to check their hardiness zone. Strawberries are a perennial plant that can be grown year round in zones 5-9. For zones 4 & 10, strawberries are considered an annual plant which means they must be replanted each year. Check out this list of states with their corresponding strawberry hardiness zone! Alabama is Zone 7. In this blog post, we’ll look at the strawberry planting zone and how to successfully plant strawberries. We will also discuss what causes frost and why it is important to protect your […]

Here’s our choices of the best flowering plants to grow in Alabama for Spring… Calibrachoa Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is a trailing petunia that is also known as Million Bells and Seaside Petunia. It’s a happy little plant that blooms prolifically all summer and performs its best under the summer sun. Calibrachoa won’t wilt in the heat like many other varieties of petunias, making it a great choice for a sunny, organic garden. Sunpatien Garden success has never been simpler with easy-to-plant, easy-to-grow SunPatiens. The thicker petals and tough foliage are less prone to disease, and their strong sturdy stems tolerate […]

Growing Calibrachoa Organically Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is a trailing petunia that is also known as Million Bells and Seaside Petunia. It’s a happy little plant that blooms prolifically all summer and performs its best under the summer sun. Calibrachoa won’t wilt in the heat like many other varieties of petunias, making it a great choice for a sunny, organic garden. Planting Location The more sun calibrachoa receivies, the more blooms they will produce. Select a location that is in full sun. Plants grow equally well when planted in-ground or in containers, but will produce runners that need space to trail […]

Growing Zinnia Organically Zinnias (Zinnia elegans) have been around for a long time and for good reason; their large, long-lasting blooms and care-free growing habits. The layers of colorful petals which make up each bloom are long-lasting when left in the garden or when used as a cut flower. Heat resistant and drought tolerant, zinnias make a perfect addition to an organic garden. Planting Location Choose a location that is in full sun and has well draining soil. Work some compost or humus into the soil before planting to ensure soil is fertile and drains efficiently. Prepare Soil Zinnias aren’t […]

Ornamental sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) vines don’t produce edible vegetables, but they do produce an attractive vine. The vine is suitable for use as a houseplant or for growing in an outside hanging basket. They thrive in the intense heat of summer and come in a wide range of colors. Their easy-care nature and low-growing vining habits make them a great addition to an organic garden. When planted among taller shrubs and plants, ornamental sweet potato vines act as a living mulch that helps retain soil moisture and keep weeds from growing. Planting Location The more sun these colorful vines […]

Growing Geraniums Organically The popular and colorful geranium (Pelargonium) is a sure sign that summer has arrived. Geraniums come in many forms, colors and growing heights with well over 400 species of plants that are in the family of Cranesbills. Easy-to-grow plant thrives in an organic garden and will provide bloom color all summer. Geraniums are considered to be an annual, but typically behave as a perennials when grown organically. Growing Location Select a sunny location that has well-draining soil. Geraniums grow well in containers or when planted in-ground. Geraniums should be planted on the day of purchase, so it’s […]