A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Vegetables Indoors

vegetables growing in pots on a windowsill

In Florida, where I live, it’s the perfect time to kick off our fall gardens. It is still very hot and very humid, with torrential rains, not at all conducive for young “cold climate” plants. We’re excited to begin in a couple of weeks.   When I lived in Indiana and Kentucky, Labor Day weekend … Read more

The Gardening Mindset: Patience, Presence, and Positivity

a gardening photo with the word mindset

Gardening is more than just a pastime; it’s a way of life that invites us to slow down, connect with nature, and take care of both the earth and ourselves. When you cultivate the right mindset, it can truly transform your gardening experience. Whether you’re nurturing a small balcony garden or managing a sprawling vegetable patch, a positive and patient … Read more

10 Hidden Hazards Waiting In Your Garden

graphic saying pathogens and pests with graphic image of a mosquito

Growing up in northern Kentucky, we had plenty of urban legends that kept us up at night, but none were scarier than the story of Hog Woman. As teenagers, we’d dare each other to drive down a pitch-black country road, deep in the woods, where she was said to roam. The Hog Woman wasn’t just … Read more

The Great Tomato Heist: How to Protect Your Garden Against Sneaky Thieves

raccoon and squirrels with tomatoes

Disclaimer: All characters in this story are considered innocent until proven guilty. Any resemblance to real-life characters or events is purely coincidental and should be taken with a pinch of garden salt. Gardeners, gather ’round! Today, I’m sharing a tale from my backyard that could rival the greatest heist stories of all time. It all … Read more

Growing Echinacea: The Plant with Medicinal Benefits

field of coneflower, also known as echniceae, plant great in the 10A garden or for preppers

Discover the benefits of growing echinacea in your garden. Learn how to plant, care for, and harvest this versatile medicinal herb, perfect for Florida gardeners and preppers alike.

The 10A Garden in Florida in August: What to Do?

August in the garden - what to plant - what to do

Discover how to make the most of your August garden in Florida’s Zone 10A. Learn tips for cleaning up beds, planting heat-tolerant crops like okra and watermelon, and planning for a fall harvest with companion planting methods like the Three Sisters. Plus, get ideas for growing a mini vegetable garden in small spaces

Garden Reboot: Backyard Woes in Hardiness Zone 10a

woman taking her tools into her garden

Let’s be honest. Sometimes our gardens don’t look perfect. Maybe the weather has been brutal, pests have taken over, or life just got in the way. It happens to the best of us! Today, we’re looking into the nitty-gritty of garden recovery. We’ll discuss common challenges, practical solutions, and how to bounce back stronger than … Read more

Stay Safe While Gardening: Simple Tips for Everyone

cover photo - garden safety tips

Gardening is a fun and healthy activity, but it comes with risks. Whether you’re new to gardening or an expert gardener, staying safe is crucial. Here are some easy-to-follow safety tips to help you enjoy your time in the garden. Dress for Safety Proper attire is a key part of garden safety. Wearing the right … Read more

Zinnias: Versatile and Easy to Grow in Florida

zinnias in yellow, orange, salmon, and purple flowers

The zinnia is an annual flower known for its vibrant colors such as red, pink, yellow, and purple. They come in different varieties, including dwarf types that stay under 6 inches tall, perfect for containers, and tall varieties reaching up to 3 feet, ideal for the back of garden beds. They are prized for their … Read more