- Don't water once, water twice. Use the "double splash" technique: water the plants gently and thoroughly, then top them off with another light watering.
- Be prompt and consistent when eliminating spent blooms; once they're past their peak, clip them from the stem with a clean, sharp cut. This will allow the plant to expend more energy on creating new flowers.
- Confused by fertilizer types and package lables? Don't be! Just remember the basics:
- N = Nitrogen
- P = Phosphorus
- K = Potassium
These are the substances of fertilizer. As long as you know the needs of your plant, you can easily determine which type(s) of fertilizer will be the best match. (If you're unsure about your plant's needs, ask the staff at your local nursery or garden center.)Good gardening tools are a must for good results in the garden! Here are some basic tips to keep in mind when buying your tools:
- Sturdy, comfortable gardening clogs are a must for the garden; their waterproof surface allows you to work even in wet areas while keeping your feet nice and dry.
- Pruners: Don't go cheap -- it's worth investing in a well-made, durable pair that will hold up over time. (Featured here: the state-of-the-art Swiss cutter, the Felco 2 pruners.)
- If you're looking for a truly phenomenal watering tool for your garden, check out the Dramm 400 PL Rain Wand. Though some might consider this model "over the top," others may deem it the greatest invention of modern civilization! As Schnieder says, "You have to see this new model to believe it."
