Growing Dahlias

 How Deep to Plant Dahlia Tubers 

Planting dahlia tubers to the right depth is crucial for their growth. Here are some tips.

Plant tubers in well-draining soil to prevent rot.

Dig a hole about 6-8 inches deep.

Place tubers horizontally in the hole with the eye facing up.

If planting multiple tubers, space them about 1.5-2 feet apart.

Cover with soil, leaving about 2 inches above the tuber.

Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant tubers like these after the last frost date in your area.

Choose a sunny location for optimal growth.

Amend soil with organic matter for better nutrient retention.

Avoid planting in areas prone to strong winds.

Consider staking taller varieties to support their growth.

Check the soil moisture regularly, especially during hot weather.

Water deeply, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Apply a layer of compost around the plants in early summer.

Protect young shoots from slugs and snails with organic controls.

Provide adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Avoid planting near trees or shrubs that compete for nutrients.

Monitor for pests like aphids and treat early if detected.

Consider planting companion plants like marigolds to deter pests.

Support taller varieties with stakes or cages to prevent bending.

Apply a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Allow enough space between plants for air circulation.

Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth.

Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water deeply.

Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Pinch out the tips of young plants to encourage bushier growth.

Remove any diseased or damaged foliage promptly.

Watch for signs of nutrient deficiencies and amend soil as needed.

Protect young plants from late frosts with row covers or cloches.

Provide support for tall varieties to prevent them from flopping over.

Water in the morning to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.

Monitor for signs of pests and treat promptly if detected.

Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging to prevent root rot.

Use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.

Consider planting in raised beds for improved drainage.

Enjoy the vibrant blooms and remember to divide and replant tubers every few years to maintain vigor.

FREE on Kindle Unlimited 

Growing Dahlias 🌸

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Dahlias-Pots-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CHHWW2DG/

Image via Sara Maximoff

Free on Kindle Unlimited:

Growing Kale🌿

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Kale-Pots-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CJN8FMT5/

Crafts for Kids 🤸

https://www.amazon.com/Paper-Plate-Crafts-Montego-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CJL37ZSR/

Decorating Glass Jars 💫

https://www.amazon.com/Decorating-Glass-Jars-Vases-Beginners-ebook/dp/B0CJL5M1VH/

Kohlrabi Recipes 🥘

https://www.amazon.com/Kohlrabi-Recipes-Montego-Bay-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CGTGVGLG/

Growing Beets

FREE on Kindle Unlimited 

 Growing:

Lucky Bamboo🌿

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJM3VSD5/

 Herb of Grace🌿

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJLQSMM4/

Creeping Thyme 🌿

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJM35FCQ/

Beets🌿

https://www.amazon.com/Beets-Companion-Plants-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CGTP3NTX/

Lavender🌿

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Lavender-Planters-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CHPLC16Z/

Image via Natalia Fogarty 

How to Grow Milkweed

 How to Grow Milkweed

Growing milkweed is essential for supporting monarch butterflies and other pollinators. Here are steps to help you grow milkweed successfully.

Choose the Right Species: Select a milkweed species native to your region. Common species include Asclepias tuberosa, Asclepias incarnata, and Asclepias syriaca.

Select a Suitable Site: Milkweed prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden or yard that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Prepare the Soil: Milkweed prefers sandy, loamy soil. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.

Plant Seeds: Plant milkweed seeds directly in the soil in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Space the seeds according to the specific requirements of the species you're planting.

Scarify Seeds (Optional): Some milkweed species have tough seed coats that benefit from scarification, which involves scratching or nicking the seed coat to encourage germination.

Water Seeds: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate.

Transplant Seedlings (Optional): If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost. Harden off seedlings before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.

Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the milkweed plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Water Regularly: Provide regular water to newly planted milkweed until they become established. Once established, milkweed is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Fertilize Sparingly: Milkweed typically does not require fertilization. If your soil is poor, apply a balanced fertilizer sparingly in the spring.

Control Weeds: Keep the area around milkweed plants free of weeds, as they can compete for nutrients and water.

Monitor for Pests: Check milkweed plants regularly for signs of pests, such as aphids or milkweed bugs. Handpick pests or use insecticidal soap if necessary.

Provide Support: Some milkweed species, such as Asclepias tuberosa, may benefit from staking to support their stems.

Prune Dead Growth: Remove dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.

Support Monarch Butterflies: Consider leaving some milkweed plants unpruned to provide habitat for monarch butterfly eggs and caterpillars.

Monitor for Diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of diseases, such as powdery mildew or fungal leaf spots. Remove and destroy infected plant material promptly.

Harvest Seeds (Optional): Allow some milkweed pods to mature on the plants. Harvest the seeds when the pods start to split open but before the wind disperses them.

Share Seeds: Share collected seeds with friends, neighbors, or local conservation organizations to help increase milkweed habitat.

Winter Care: In colder climates, cut back milkweed plants in late fall to prevent disease and encourage healthy regrowth in the spring.

Observe and Enjoy: Watch for monarch butterflies and other pollinators visiting your milkweed plants. Enjoy the beauty and ecological importance of these remarkable plants in your garden.

FREE on Kindle Unlimited ✨

Growing Milkweed 🌿

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Milkweed-Pots-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CJ1BPR7Q/

Growing Moringa🌿

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Moringa-Pots-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CJ24J145/

Growing Geraniums 🌸

https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Geraniums-Pots-Kingston-Publishing-ebook/dp/B0CJ1ZQNBL/

Image via Mary Hammel