CROWN DIVISION One simple and reliable method for propagating plants at home is crown division. As a general rule, plants that flower in the spring and early summer should be divided in late summer or fall. Those flowering in the summer and fall should be divided in early spring before new growth begins. For crown division of herbaceous plants, such as irises, the clumps should be carefully lifted and some soil removed from the roots. The crown may then be cut into sections with a knife or other sharp tool. Individual shoots that contain roots may be used to form new plants, or if a larger plant is desired, several shoots may be left together. In large, old crowns, it is often best to discard the older, center portions and replant the young, more vigorous shoots that have developed on the edges of the clump. Table 1: Some common perennials…
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Scented Geraniums: A Worthy Addition To The Home Garden
Scented geraniums (Pelargonium species) are excellent herbs to grow in the garden. They are tender perennials and are planted in containers so that they can be easily brought in for the winter. These plants are treated as annuals, but have been known to survive the winter if mulched and the temperatures do not get too cold. They are grown for their scented leaves, not for their flowers like traditional geraniums. Scented geraniums come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some have highly aromatic foliage. Some varieties have bright red flowers, while others vary from white to pink. Their leaves range from rounded to finely cut. The leaves can be dried and used in potpourris or added to teas. They should be grown in well-drained soil and in full sun. However, during the hot part of the day, they need some shade to keep from being scorched. The smaller leafed varieties…
Caring for Your Garden Tools
Now that your fall garden chores are completed, it’s time to give your trusty garden tools some attention before storing them. By properly cleaning and making the necessary repairs now, your tools will be less apt to corrode. When spring rolls around, they will be ready to be used. Wooden Handles:To clean the handles, wipe them with a dry cloth. Use little, if any, water. Fine sand paper can be used to smooth the surface. Remove the sanding dust, rub linseed oil into the handle and let it soak in. Continue this process until it doesn’t absorb any more oil. Wait about half an hour and dry any oil that remains on the surface. This will help prevent drying out and splintering. Another option is after cleaning and sanding the handle, coat it with neon colored oil-based paint. It’s a lot easier to find that misplaced trowel when the handle…