Category Archives: Gardening Information

Gardening 101~ How to Incorporate Kids into Your Vegetable Garden and Kid-Friendly Projects

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The single greatest lesson the garden teaches is that our relationship to the planet need not be zero-sum, and that as long as the sun still shines and people still can plan and plant, think and do, we can, if we bother to try, find ways to provide for ourselves without diminishing the world. – Michael Pollan

As you all know I have always included my children in the garden. It hasn’t always been easy to get them there, especially with the weeding, but overall it has always been an enjoyable experience. I value the lessons the garden has taught them, especially my oldest. She now has her own little boy and has included him in the gardening. Nate helped me plant marigolds in the raised beds this year… It really does bring so much joy!

There are so many benefits to gardening with  kids. It’s not only a fun & educational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, it can be especially beneficial for kids. Not only does it teach them about the environment, but it also helps them develop valuable life skills like patience, responsibility, and problem-solving. 

In today’s episode, I’ll discuss the benefits of gardening with kids, how to get started with a kid-friendly garden, choosing the right plants, creative ideas for incorporating kid-friendly activities into your garden, DIY garden projects, garden-based learning activities for kids, garden-themed games & activities for kids, tips for making gardening with kids fun and engaging.

Check out my YouTube Video for loads of fun & creative ideas to get your kids engaged in the garden!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

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If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

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All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

Gardening 101~How to Grow Perfect Garlic: Understanding Garlic Scapes and How to Use Them

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“You know, when you get your first asparagus, or your first acorn squash, or your first really good tomato of the season, those are the moments that define the cook’s year. I get more excited by that than anything else.” ― Mario Batali

Garlic is one of my favorite things to cook with, as it is a staple ingredient in almost every kitchen. It’s such a versatile ingredient and adds a unique flavor to a variety of dishes. However, there is a secret to perfecting your garlic dishes, and that is by understanding garlic scapes and how to use them. 

Garlic scapes are the curly, green shoots that grow up from the stem of the garlic bulbs. They are often overlooked in favor of the more familiar garlic cloves, but they are packed with flavor and have many nutritional benefits. 

Many people don’t realize removing them is the key to having a successful garlic harvest. In today’s episode, I’ll explain the world of garlic scapes, from their flavor profile to their creative uses in the kitchen, and why you need to harvest them to ensure large, beautiful garlic bulbs!

Check out my YouTube Video on The Secret to Perfect Garlic: Understanding Garlic Scapes and How to Use Them!

Read on for more recipes and how to make your own Roasted Garlic & Garlic Infused Olive Oil!

Garlic scape pesto recipe

Garlic scape pesto is a great way to use up any leftover garlic scapes. It is easy to make and can be used as a spread, dip, or sauce. Here is a simple recipe for garlic scape pesto:

Ingredients:

1 cup garlic scapes, chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup olive oil

½ tsp pink Himalayan salt 

½ tsp fresh ground black pepper 

Instructions:

In a food processor or blender, pulse the garlic scapes, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts until finely chopped.

With the motor running, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Other creative ways to use garlic scapes

  • Stir-fry: Add chopped garlic scapes to your favorite stir-fry recipe for a fresh, green flavor
  • Salad: Use thinly sliced garlic scapes in your favorite salad recipe for a unique twist
  • Soup: Add chopped garlic scapes to your favorite soup recipe for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Grilled: Brush garlic scapes with olive oil and grill them for a delicious and healthy side dish.

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

The Art of Espalier: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Living Wall

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“I think this is what hooks one to gardening: it is the closest one can come to being present at creation.” Phyllis Theroux

I have always wanted my own espalier… and I finally have one due to my dear friends Allen & Beth. I recently did an Instagram live showing it to all of you! As you all know, I’m pretty true to sticking to heirlooms with a few exceptions, so I was thrilled when this tree arrived with 6 heirloom grafted apples on it! Yes… it has 6 varieties of apples on it due to the wonderful art of grafting. I personally have never done this, but I know many people who have with great success.

So in todays episode, I’m going to show you how you can create a beautiful living wall in your outdoor space with an espalier! If you’ve been looking to add a touch of elegance and beauty to your outdoor space, then this is the information you need! 

Have you ever heard of the art of espalier? If not, you’re in for a treat! Espalier is a method of training plants to grow flat against a wall or fence, creating a living wall that is not only visually stunning but also functional. With a little bit of patience and know-how, you too can create your own living wall masterpiece. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about espalier, from selecting the right plants to pruning and training techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, this guide will give you the tools and inspiration you need to transform your outdoor space into a work of art. So, grab your gardening gloves and let’s get started on this exciting journey into the world of espalier!

Check out my YouTube video below to learn more on how you can create a beautiful living wall utilizing the espalier method!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

Easy how to build a bamboo tee-pee trellis in under five minutes!

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Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace. – May Sarton

If you saw my video on vertical gardening, then you definitely want to watch this easy tutorial on how to build a TeePee trellis for your garden. With only two zip ties, and 4 to 6 bamboo poles, you can have a versatile trellis to grow tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, plants, or any other vining plant.

Be sure to watch my video here on trellising your tomatoes and vertical gardening to learn more friends.

Check out my tutorial below to see how quick and easy it is to build your own tee-pee trellis!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

Garden Talks with Dawn Green, Horticulturist & Owner of Dawn Gardens, LLC.

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Join Jean as she chats it up with Dawn Green, Horticulturist & Owner of Dawn Gardens, LLC.

Dawn & Jean are definitely kindred spirts as they both love anything involved with being in the dirt! Today they will discuss what they are both doing in their personal gardens, as well as professional.

About Dawn…

Dawn Green is a lifelong Michigander, minus a short stay in Alabama while she served in the Army. She grew up in the U.P. with Lake Superior and Tahquamenon Falls as her playgrounds. Growing up in a family of hunters, fishermen, and gardeners she learned quickly the grocery store was not the only source of food. She leaves the hunting and fishing to other family members, but gardening has always been her passion. She often says I says she not only has a green thumb, but is “green through and through”. She is the mother of two amazing young women and grandmother of 3 adorable grandchildren. She moved to Oakland County shortly after leaving the Army and has been here ever since.

To connect with Dawn, check her out at anyone of the following platforms:

Email: dawn@dawngardensllc.com

https://dawngardensllc.com/

https://www.facebook.com/dawngardensllc

https://www.instagram.com/dawngardensllc/

Join Jean each week as she chats it up about  gardening, cooking, organizational tips & tricks, chatting about healthy lifestyles, and of course having conversations with incredible entrepreneurs!

Jump on over to my Podcast & SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss an episode!

CLICK Here to listen to this episode!

If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook & Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Remember to eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day!

Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content 

Gardening 101~ 10 Organic Methods to Eliminate Tomato Worms & Keep Your Garden Healthy!

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A world without tomatoes is like a string quartet without violins. – Laurie Colwin

Most of us have our tomatoes in the ground now and the season is on! One of the most frustrating things with gardening are the pests we incessantly seem to be contending with. I mean seriously… Where do these pests come from and how do they always seem to find my garden! I know I am not the only one thinking this.

As gardeners, we know that nothing is more frustrating than spending hours tending to your tomato plants, only to find them infested with tomato worms. These pesky pests can quickly destroy our plants and leave us with a disappointing harvest. 

Well as an organic gardener I need to fight the good fight with everything I know! So fear not, I have plenty of organic methods to share with you to help in the elimination of tomato worms and keep your garden healthy. 

In today’s episode, I’ve compiled a list of 10 tried & true methods I have personally used to get rid of tomato worms without using harmful chemicals. From planting companion plants to using homemade insecticidal sprays, these methods are not only effective but also environmentally friendly. 

So, like I always say, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, read on to discover how you can keep your tomato plants healthy and thriving all season long.

Check out my YouTube video below to learn my 10 Organic Methods to Eliminate Tomato Worms & Keep Your Garden Healthy!

To see my latest video on how and why trellising your tomato plants is so important, CLICK HERE!

Click to see my post on Companion Planting.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

Gardening 101~ Elevate Your Garden Game with Vertical Gardening: A Beginner’s Guide

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“It is only the farmer who faithfully plants seeds in the Spring, who reaps a harvest in the Autumn. ” B. C. Forbes

You may have recently seen my last episode on Why Trellising Your Tomato Plants is a Must-Do and 5 Tips for Success which somewhat relates to today’s topic on vertical gardening. In today’s episode I will be elaborating on this topic and showing you the benefits of gardening vertically!

Vertical gardening is a gardening technique that simply involves growing plants vertically, taking advantage of unused vertical space while creating a stunning visual display. Not only does it allow you to maximize your garden space, but it also has numerous benefits, including easier maintenance, better air circulation, and less pest and disease problems. If you’re new to vertical gardening and don’t know where to start, don’t worry – this beginner’s guide has got you covered. I’ll take you through the basics, from choosing the right plants and materials to setting up your vertical garden and caring for your plants. Get ready to elevate your garden game and create a stunning, space-saving garden that’s sure to impress.

Check out my YouTube video below for the whole scoop on vertical gardening & how it will benefit you!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

Gardening 101~ Why Trellising Your Tomato Plants is a Must-Do and 5 Tips for Success

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“It’s difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato.” ― Lewis Grizzard

I admit it… I haven’t always trellised my tomatoes. I’ve always used the standard tomato cage, but trellising is something I recently started doing. Yes, I have always known it is the best way to grow my tomatoes, I just never took the time. Well friends, I am taking the time now as it will provide me with a healthier & more abundant crop of tomatoes! 

Quite friendly, I got tired of my tomato plants sprawling all over the tomato cages & the raised beds taking up valuable space all the while making it difficult to harvest those ripe, juicy fruits. Trellising my tomato plants will provide more space for me to grow around them. This will allow me the opportunity to succession plant more effectively. 

It will also improve airflow and reduce the risk of diseases. Not to mention, trellised tomatoes are easier to care for and harvest, resulting in a better yield. 

Now you are asking, “Ok that’s all great Jean, but where do I start? You start right here friends! In today’s episode, I’ll provide you with 5 tips for successfully trellising your tomato plants, from choosing the right trellis to proper pruning techniques. Whether you’re a veteran gardener or novice just starting out, these tips will help you achieve a bountiful tomato harvest & beautiful garden. So let’s get started and take your tomato growing to the next level!

Watch my YouTube Video as I explain Why Trellising Your Tomato Plants is a Must-Do and 5 Tips for Success!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

Here a few other photo’s of trellising:

If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.

From Lawn to Garden: Why Using Grass Clippings as Mulch is the Perfect Solution for Raised Beds

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“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” Margaret Atwood

Mulching your raised beds is crucial for optimal growth. There are several benefits to mulching with grass clippings, however there are a few techniques that you need to know!

Check out my easy tutorial on Gardening 101~ How-to Mulch Your Raised Beds with Grass Clippings. Check out my YouTube Video below!

Keep posted for my upcoming blog on the benefits of mulching with grass clippings!

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post on my Top 10 Favorite & Easy Vegetables to Grow for the Home Gardener!

If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.

Gardening 101~ Maximizing Your Garden’s Yield: The Benefits and Techniques of Succession Planting

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“The first gatherings of the garden in May of salads, radishes, and herbs made me feel like a mother about her baby ― how could anything so beautiful be mine. And this emotion of wonder filled me for each vegetable as it was gathered every year. There is nothing that is comparable to it, as satisfactory or as thrilling, as gathering the vegetables one has grown.” ― Alice B. Toklas

Throughout the winter months I long for the warm days when I can get back into the dirt and smell the scent of plants growing. Yes, they do have a scent and all gardeners know it. It’s like the smell of the first lawn cutting, or the way the air smells after a heavy rain.. It is simply a romantic aroma!

Have you ever wondered how some of your gardening friends always have fresh produce when your garden seems to have given up the ghost? Or how farmers market vendors have fresh lettuce all season, and yours turns bitter and bolts?

What you may not know is their secret… and that’s what I’m going to share with you all of you today! It’s called succession planting, and it’s super easy to incorporate into your gardening plan.

Let’s talk about the benefits & techniques of succession planting. With this method, you can maximize your garden’s yield and enjoy a steady supply of fruits, herbs, & veggies  throughout the growing season.

In today’s blog post, I’ll teach you the various benefits of succession planting, including increased productivity and reduced waste. I’ll also discuss the different techniques and strategies you can use to implement this method successfully. So, whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, today you will discover how to make the most of your garden with succession planting.

I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start! 

Be sure to check out my Blog Post for more info on Succession Planting & a 3 Season Garden Plan!

If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest stories in your inbox.

You can get some really great tips in Elliot Coleman’s, Four Season Harvest!  Great book!
**Information adapted from Organic Gardening Magazine, “Keep It Coming” By Barbara Damrosch. Feb/Mar 2010, pg.s 42-47

If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!

Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day,
Jean

Copyright Policy

All text and images on this site are copyright of For Dragonflies And Me. Unless otherwise noted, you may not use this content.