Lois, the corpse flower in Houston, is meant to bloom any day! Unfortunately, she is overdue! But, she is still drawing a huge crowd to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It is a great reminder that vegetation absolutely draws our society together! The museum has seen over 33,000 visitors since Lois arrived! We look forward to seeing (although, possibly not smelling) this unique flower!
For those looking to cultivate their own gardens with unique vegetation, check out http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ for gardening tools and products.
Homegrown Produce
Monday, July 19, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Hot...
It is super hot right now in Houston! While we had a day or two stay in the upper-80's and low 90's, those have been cushioned by the scorching upper-90's that we are used to getting in July. Welcome to Texas! With the heat that makes you drenched in sweat just three minutes after walking out your back door, comes many things to consider blessings: popsicles and ice cream treats are a must; watering yourself while watering the plants is critical; and you can always return to the inside AC!
But, with the heat also comes summer storms- meaning, rain! What is amazing is that one, tiny inch of rain falling on a 1,000 foot surface, could yield approximately 500 gallons of rain water. So, it is time for the rain barrel to catch the summer storms. It is time to turn the heat into super blessings!
Check out http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ for a great selection of rain barrels! There is a $5 flat fee shipping on all rain barrels!
But, with the heat also comes summer storms- meaning, rain! What is amazing is that one, tiny inch of rain falling on a 1,000 foot surface, could yield approximately 500 gallons of rain water. So, it is time for the rain barrel to catch the summer storms. It is time to turn the heat into super blessings!
Check out http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ for a great selection of rain barrels! There is a $5 flat fee shipping on all rain barrels!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Benefits of Outdoor Cedar Furniture
Choosing patio furniture can be a daunting task; it is easy to feel overwhelmed with all the styles, colors and choices. However, throw in the wood material and organic sustainability factors, and you may just need some help deciding! If you are looking to create an organic and sustainable outdoor garden space, it is important to research how sustainable the wood your patio furniture is made of really is. To be considered sustainable, the wood type should be replenished quickly, and the production of your patio furniture should not impact tree supplies to a great degree. For these reasons, Cedar patio furniture is one of the most affordable, organic, and sustainable patio furniture options in the market. Cedar patio furniture is made of Western Red Cedar which is replenished quickly in the environment, and provides an organic and environmentally friendly option to your organic garden space.
Cedar patio furniture is also one of the most affordable wood patio furniture options available, while also being classified as organic and sustainable. For each Western Red Cedar tree that is used in patio furniture, another 5 cedar trees are replenished in the wild by many companies who produce patio furniture. In addition, other companies only create patio furniture from forests specifically designated for this purpose, no natural cedar trees are cut down. Thus, your organic garden can flourish as you are assisting with sustainable purchasing options. Organic gardening does not only apply to your fruits, vegetables and other plants, but also to the choices you make with your outdoor patio furniture. It is important to take into consideration the impact it has on the environment, which is why Cedar patio furniture is one of the best options for patio furniture.
In addition, Cedar patio furniture is resistant to fungi and has a thermal coefficient which allows it to retain heat. This wood is 80% as strong as Oak, which lends it a more affordable patio furniture price with a strong presence, which will not blow over in the wind. Other wood patio furniture sets may not have these properties but are frequently more expensive. Another attractive aspect of Cedar wood patio furniture is that it requires very little maintenance, which will allow you to enjoy your organic garden more and reduce maintenance time on outdoor patio furniture.
Cedar patio furniture is also one of the most affordable wood patio furniture options available, while also being classified as organic and sustainable. For each Western Red Cedar tree that is used in patio furniture, another 5 cedar trees are replenished in the wild by many companies who produce patio furniture. In addition, other companies only create patio furniture from forests specifically designated for this purpose, no natural cedar trees are cut down. Thus, your organic garden can flourish as you are assisting with sustainable purchasing options. Organic gardening does not only apply to your fruits, vegetables and other plants, but also to the choices you make with your outdoor patio furniture. It is important to take into consideration the impact it has on the environment, which is why Cedar patio furniture is one of the best options for patio furniture.
In addition, Cedar patio furniture is resistant to fungi and has a thermal coefficient which allows it to retain heat. This wood is 80% as strong as Oak, which lends it a more affordable patio furniture price with a strong presence, which will not blow over in the wind. Other wood patio furniture sets may not have these properties but are frequently more expensive. Another attractive aspect of Cedar wood patio furniture is that it requires very little maintenance, which will allow you to enjoy your organic garden more and reduce maintenance time on outdoor patio furniture.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Sun Rise
I have been blessed to be up and att'em this morning! So much so, that I am enjoying the sun rise now! It is beautiful. The sun is a golden ball in the sky but the surrounding sky is still that early nighttime blue. When I think of sunrises, I think of the whole sky being pinks, yellows and oranges. Not the case this morning, or perhaps it is still a little too early. Nevertheless, this site is beautiful!
Enjoying this time in the morning when it is peaceful and quiet makes me think about how calming any task involving nature can be: sunrise/sunset, nature walks, gardening. While there are annoyances, everything for the most part is calming and serene. Does that tell us something about our pace of society? Perhaps we should turn back to nature, take notes, and we would be more productive... Or at the very least, have seasons of productivity: spring, summer...
There is a wreath hanging on our front door that a mama bird has decided to make her home. Over the past few weeks, we have watched this mama bird nest. And now, we are blessed with the song of five baby birds!!!! While I am sure my wreath is ruined from these houseguests, it is a beautiful site! Just please, do not use our front door! But they too enjoy the slow pace of nature.
Lessons to be learned! Take note of the garden spaces around you, and plan a time in your schedule to just enjoy the sites and sounds and pace of nature- even in suburbia or downtown!
Check out http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ for great ways to enjoy your garden space!
Enjoying this time in the morning when it is peaceful and quiet makes me think about how calming any task involving nature can be: sunrise/sunset, nature walks, gardening. While there are annoyances, everything for the most part is calming and serene. Does that tell us something about our pace of society? Perhaps we should turn back to nature, take notes, and we would be more productive... Or at the very least, have seasons of productivity: spring, summer...
There is a wreath hanging on our front door that a mama bird has decided to make her home. Over the past few weeks, we have watched this mama bird nest. And now, we are blessed with the song of five baby birds!!!! While I am sure my wreath is ruined from these houseguests, it is a beautiful site! Just please, do not use our front door! But they too enjoy the slow pace of nature.
Lessons to be learned! Take note of the garden spaces around you, and plan a time in your schedule to just enjoy the sites and sounds and pace of nature- even in suburbia or downtown!
Check out http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ for great ways to enjoy your garden space!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Gorgeous Weather!
The kids have been playing in the streets these past few days. I find myself choosing to be outside in the gorgeous weather rather than inside completed the chores that need to be done. Yet, it is GORGEOUS outside! I love springs in Texas. The weather is just right for shorts and t-shirts; the bugs have not quite come out to bite; and the sun stays up until just before 8. It is a perfect time for the neighbors to get to know each other while the kids play.
Yet with the gorgeous weatehr comes gardening responsibilities that have been put on the back burner because of winter: mowing, weeding, and watering. It is back! So, while we enjoy the wonderful weather, let's also enjoy the ability to get back in to the gardens. Where we will truly see rewards for our labors!
Remember, http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ offers a variety of different items made to help any garden become your sanctuary! Check it out.
Yet with the gorgeous weatehr comes gardening responsibilities that have been put on the back burner because of winter: mowing, weeding, and watering. It is back! So, while we enjoy the wonderful weather, let's also enjoy the ability to get back in to the gardens. Where we will truly see rewards for our labors!
Remember, http://www.motherearthgardening.com/ offers a variety of different items made to help any garden become your sanctuary! Check it out.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Flowers are Blooming!
We drove down to the coast this weekend, and I was amazed at the beautiful flowers blooming! It seems like just last week we were once again hit with a cold front and the flowers were no where in site. Now, they are popping up everywhere! I love spring time!!!!!
I look forward to the upcoming Easter holiday when we can see the bluebonnets. Hopefully, we will be able to get some great pictures. The bluebonnets come and go so quickly that we always seem to miss them. This year though, I am ready!
Enjoy the flowers this spring!
I look forward to the upcoming Easter holiday when we can see the bluebonnets. Hopefully, we will be able to get some great pictures. The bluebonnets come and go so quickly that we always seem to miss them. This year though, I am ready!
Enjoy the flowers this spring!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
And again... it is cold!
Just when you think it is safe to put away the winter clothes, Mother Nature has different plans. Again over the weekend, we were in the thirties and forties down here in Houston. Ugh! But, regardless of the cold and rain that hit this weekend, it promises to be sunny again this week. So, once again we can begin to prep our beds, plant our flowers, and then enjoy the beauty of nature!
MotherEarthGardening.com has added Patio and Garden furniture! Just in time for us to enjoy the views from our garden. Check it out and find something that will be perfect in your garden!
MotherEarthGardening.com has added Patio and Garden furniture! Just in time for us to enjoy the views from our garden. Check it out and find something that will be perfect in your garden!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Spring has Sprung!
Today, specifically this afternoon, was GORGEOUS! Yes, this morning was questionable, but the sun prevailed giving us a fantastic afternoon. Therefore, I am excited to say that spring is here! Of course, there is a small tingle down my neck telling me that I may have spoken too soon, but I don't think so!
I am looking forward to watching the new flowers and plant growth. How exciting!!! I hope you enjoy this first few days of beautiful weather that you have, too!!!
I am looking forward to watching the new flowers and plant growth. How exciting!!! I hope you enjoy this first few days of beautiful weather that you have, too!!!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Weeds- where do we begin?
I have had multiple conversations with people recently about the crazy number of weeds that are overtaking the yard. In Houston, our winter has been much harder than in recent years. We have very little green grass left; in fact, many of us have no green in our yard. The exception- those pesky little (or in many cases, large) weeds. The weeds come in multiple shapes and sizes, but they are all incredibly resilient!
So, where do we begin? Our goal is obvious- remove the weeds and leave the grass. We could resort to chemicals, but besides the obvious issue of adding chemicals to our land, we also have to know either the specific weeds to kill, purchasing multiple types of chemical weed killer, or expect all weeds and any remaining grass to be killed in the process when using a general weed killer.
The second option is one that is much more environmentally friendly- natural, organic weed killer. A mixture of vinegar and water should do it; the problem is that this is non-selective- everything, grass included, will perish.
Therefore, the most effective way to rid yourselves of the pesky weeds is by hand! Doing so now, when the ground is still moist will make the task slightly easier. Yet, it is still back-breaking work. Without a doubt, you must pull the entire root system of the weed out during this process. Yet, once the weeds are removed, we can look at preventative measures to keep the weeds away from your lawn!
While de-weeding your yard is never easy, there are multiple products that can be utilized to make the project a little less back-breaking. There are weed pullers and various trowls that can be used to help with this process. Good luck to you- down with the weeds!
So, where do we begin? Our goal is obvious- remove the weeds and leave the grass. We could resort to chemicals, but besides the obvious issue of adding chemicals to our land, we also have to know either the specific weeds to kill, purchasing multiple types of chemical weed killer, or expect all weeds and any remaining grass to be killed in the process when using a general weed killer.
The second option is one that is much more environmentally friendly- natural, organic weed killer. A mixture of vinegar and water should do it; the problem is that this is non-selective- everything, grass included, will perish.
Therefore, the most effective way to rid yourselves of the pesky weeds is by hand! Doing so now, when the ground is still moist will make the task slightly easier. Yet, it is still back-breaking work. Without a doubt, you must pull the entire root system of the weed out during this process. Yet, once the weeds are removed, we can look at preventative measures to keep the weeds away from your lawn!
While de-weeding your yard is never easy, there are multiple products that can be utilized to make the project a little less back-breaking. There are weed pullers and various trowls that can be used to help with this process. Good luck to you- down with the weeds!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Mulching Time
As I am sitting here waiting for an appointment, I notice the efficiency that the gardeners use in putting out mulch. They lay out the bags of mulch before ripping them open to spread them out. I am reminded of two things: how important mulch is to water conservation and how efficiency helps save much more than just time- it saves your back too.
It is now time to think about bed prep. So, measure, plan and mulch.
It is now time to think about bed prep. So, measure, plan and mulch.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Spring has sprung- almost
While the official start date for spring is still a few days away (March 20), it is definitely feeling more like spring in the Houston area. Yes, it is still cold and wet. But, the afternoons are beautiful- clear, blue skies and SUNNY! With this weather, I am truly starting to think about how to change my garden, especially since everything has died from the winter weather.
I look forward to spending some time outside without having to bundle up in four different layers. I am sure to those from the North, our winter here in Texas is nothing. Yet, it is not often that we beg for the heat. Yet, that is what is happening- we are begging for the triple digits! How long that will last when the heat actually hits, I am not sure. For now, it is exciting to note that the fabulous spring weather is on its way!
Spring has sprung!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for great garden products.
I look forward to spending some time outside without having to bundle up in four different layers. I am sure to those from the North, our winter here in Texas is nothing. Yet, it is not often that we beg for the heat. Yet, that is what is happening- we are begging for the triple digits! How long that will last when the heat actually hits, I am not sure. For now, it is exciting to note that the fabulous spring weather is on its way!
Spring has sprung!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for great garden products.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Snow in Houston- again
It is snowing in Houston! This odd on many different levels: 1. It is less than a week away from March, and 2. this is the third time this winter that we have received a measurable amount of snow. It simply reminds me that weather is incredibly unpredictable! Yet, we can do everything possible to be prepared. From the fire pits to the rain barrels, there is always something to do in your garden space.
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for your gardening needs!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for your gardening needs!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Time Flies
Whew! It is amazing how quickly the days past in retrospect. Yet, it has been the same weather day after day to the point that it feels as if things are moving in slow motion! How can we help our gardens grow when we our facing the same gloomy forecast each day? The answer- look for the small signs of growth!
Start with your houseplants. During this time of year, they have a difficult time getting the lighting that they need to grow. So, move them near the windows or use fluorescent bulbs to give them the light they need. When you start to see growth- it is time to start feeding them!
Looking at the outside (yes, from the window is fine!)- start thinking about what plants you would like to see grow in the places that have been naturally pruned back by frost. When it is warm enough, start the pruning process by cutting back the plants that did not make it through the harsh winter. And finally, begin the process of tilling the dirt in preparation for the spring planting. The best time is now, when the ground is still wet. It is easier to pull the weeds now!
So yes, even in the dreariest of winter- time flies! We must look beyond the gloom to the visions of greenery and flowers that will be in full bloom in a few months. And, we must prepare now!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for the tools to get started!
Start with your houseplants. During this time of year, they have a difficult time getting the lighting that they need to grow. So, move them near the windows or use fluorescent bulbs to give them the light they need. When you start to see growth- it is time to start feeding them!
Looking at the outside (yes, from the window is fine!)- start thinking about what plants you would like to see grow in the places that have been naturally pruned back by frost. When it is warm enough, start the pruning process by cutting back the plants that did not make it through the harsh winter. And finally, begin the process of tilling the dirt in preparation for the spring planting. The best time is now, when the ground is still wet. It is easier to pull the weeds now!
So yes, even in the dreariest of winter- time flies! We must look beyond the gloom to the visions of greenery and flowers that will be in full bloom in a few months. And, we must prepare now!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for the tools to get started!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Season of Gardening
Walking into the store this morning, I was shocked to see rows of seed packets. Is it that time already? While, it is still cold, and technically winter, the time for seeds is nevertheless just around the corner. This fact just reminds me how out of shape my beds are: they are not ready for seeds, let alone bulbs or plants!
Therefore, first things first: bed preparation. Did you know that now, when the ground is still damp, is the best time to begin pulling those weeds. Pruning and trimming bushes can wait still, but the time is right for pulling weeds! So, choose a weekend and mark your calendar- it is time to prep your garden!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com to see tools to get you started on prepping your garden.
Also, you are welcome to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
Therefore, first things first: bed preparation. Did you know that now, when the ground is still damp, is the best time to begin pulling those weeds. Pruning and trimming bushes can wait still, but the time is right for pulling weeds! So, choose a weekend and mark your calendar- it is time to prep your garden!
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com to see tools to get you started on prepping your garden.
Also, you are welcome to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
April Showers bring May Flowers
The rainy season is fast approaching, and it is time that we use our natural resources! A rain barrel would be a fabulous way to start. By collecting the water running off of our roof, we could then provide our lawns and gardens with clean water. Water is such a precious commodity in many areas that we must do our best to preserve what water we are blessed to have.
I know that there are many times when I groan thinking of it raining- AGAIN! Yet, it is time to turn that frown upside down. Using the rainwater is a perfect solution! Rain barrels come in many sizes and varying designs. There is one that is perfect for your family's needs and complimentary to the look of your house.
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for a fabulous selection of must have rain barrels!
I know that there are many times when I groan thinking of it raining- AGAIN! Yet, it is time to turn that frown upside down. Using the rainwater is a perfect solution! Rain barrels come in many sizes and varying designs. There is one that is perfect for your family's needs and complimentary to the look of your house.
Check out www.MotherEarthGardening.com for a fabulous selection of must have rain barrels!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Compost Confusion
Composters have for years caused our hair to stand on end with the very thought of decomposing trash-- the smell! However, times and technology have changed! We have come a long way- yes, minus the smell!
Check out our article on composters at www.ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_Ann_Stroech.
We are also excited to announce that you are welcome to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Our goal at www.MotherEarthGardening.com is to provide you with everything you need to create a beautiful and functional organic living space!
Check out our article on composters at www.ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_Ann_Stroech.
We are also excited to announce that you are welcome to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Our goal at www.MotherEarthGardening.com is to provide you with everything you need to create a beautiful and functional organic living space!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Dreary Weather
With the dreary weather outside, it is easy to think of nothing more than curling up in front of the fire with hot cocoa and a good book. But, why not use this time to garden- inside, of course!
There are many different gardens that can be created inside that will help to improve the quality of air within your own home. From the quintessential herb garden to a rock garden, these small indoor gardens provide you with something to take care of even when the weather is not cooperating.
Growing up we had a cacti garden. It consisted of just a few specimen of cacti, but they were a great conversation starter for visitors. They required very little upkeep, just a little water once a month. But, they provided hours of in depth conversation.
It is amazing what a garden, even indoors, can do for a family!
There are many different gardens that can be created inside that will help to improve the quality of air within your own home. From the quintessential herb garden to a rock garden, these small indoor gardens provide you with something to take care of even when the weather is not cooperating.
Growing up we had a cacti garden. It consisted of just a few specimen of cacti, but they were a great conversation starter for visitors. They required very little upkeep, just a little water once a month. But, they provided hours of in depth conversation.
It is amazing what a garden, even indoors, can do for a family!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Season of Gardening
It is hard for us to think of gardening right now when we look at the outdoor scenary only to be staring at brown (or in the northern states- snow). Down here in Texas, we are used to mild winters where we are lucky to pull our jackets out of the closet once during the season of cold. This has been a different year altogether- for everyone!
Yet, it is upon us! The season of gardening! As we grow tired of the snow and frozen-back plants, we should be looking forward to the sprouting of new life as spring takes hold. The question becomes- what do we do now?
The answer is simple: prune back the dead, fertilize and replant. Of course, all of this takes place in due time. But, now is the time to prep. What new plants are you going to use for color this season? Where are you going to place your garden? And, what new produce are you going to try out? What tools need to be revamped and/or replaced this season?
At www.MotherEarthGardening.com, we are working hard to be your one stop gardening shop! As we continue on with our blog postings, we will be sharing new and old ways to revitalize your yards!
You can also check out our "Future of Gardening" article on EzineArticles.com! Check it out!
Yet, it is upon us! The season of gardening! As we grow tired of the snow and frozen-back plants, we should be looking forward to the sprouting of new life as spring takes hold. The question becomes- what do we do now?
The answer is simple: prune back the dead, fertilize and replant. Of course, all of this takes place in due time. But, now is the time to prep. What new plants are you going to use for color this season? Where are you going to place your garden? And, what new produce are you going to try out? What tools need to be revamped and/or replaced this season?
At www.MotherEarthGardening.com, we are working hard to be your one stop gardening shop! As we continue on with our blog postings, we will be sharing new and old ways to revitalize your yards!
You can also check out our "Future of Gardening" article on EzineArticles.com! Check it out!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Moderate Weekend in Texas
This past weekend, we spent quite a bit of time in Huntsville, Texas. While, the northern-most states are dealing with blistering snow and ice- we dealt with cool but sunny days. It reminded me that while most of the country is still in the throws of winter, the southern regions are beginning to look forward to the upcoming change in season. February is a huge time for us in the gardening world. Each year, I dread the pruning that my husband will do, as he always tends to cut back more than what I would like. However, everything always blooms and fills in beautifully after just a few weeks. I worry for nothing!
This year, we did face a freeze in Houston, Texas, where we are based. It froze back quite a few of my beautiful vines and Mexican Heather. I am interested to see how quickly they will be able to bounce back, as my husband assures me they will.
Over the next few weeks, I will be composing various articles that will help us gardeners begin to organize our supplies as we prepare to tackle the great outdoors. MotherEarthGardening.com looks forwardto being your one stop gardening supply shop!
This year, we did face a freeze in Houston, Texas, where we are based. It froze back quite a few of my beautiful vines and Mexican Heather. I am interested to see how quickly they will be able to bounce back, as my husband assures me they will.
Over the next few weeks, I will be composing various articles that will help us gardeners begin to organize our supplies as we prepare to tackle the great outdoors. MotherEarthGardening.com looks forwardto being your one stop gardening supply shop!
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