Category Archives: plant divisions

Gardening 101 Day 23~ The Ultimate Guide to Dividing Overgrown Herbs: Tips and Tricks for a Bountiful Harvest

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“It is a good idea to be alone in a garden at dawn or dark so that all its shy presences may haunt you and possess you in a reverie of suspended thought.” James Douglas

You all know how much I love my herbs, so taking care of them and ensuring they continue to grow & thrive is essential to a bountiful harvest. Dividing them helps to keep them from getting too crowded, which can lead to poor growth and disease. 

In this guide, I’ll be taking you through the benefits of dividing overgrown herbs, signs that your herbs need dividing, the best time to divide overgrown herbs, tools needed for dividing herbs, steps for dividing overgrown herbs, tips for planting and caring for divided herbs, common mistakes to avoid when dividing herbs, and recommended herbs to divide. So now lets get rolling friends!

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What are the benefits of dividing my herbs?

Dividing overgrown herbs is a great way to keep your herbs looking and tasting their best. When you divide your herbs, you’re essentially creating new plants from one plant. This means that the new plants will have fresh, healthy roots and plenty of space to grow. Dividing your herbs can also help to promote new growth and increase the yield of your herb garden. And that’s what we want right friends… more herbs!

What are some of the signs that my herbs need dividing?

So, how do you know when it’s time to divide your herbs? There are a few signs to look out for. If your herbs are looking crowded or are starting to wilt, it’s probably time to divide them. You may also notice that your herbs are not growing as well as they used to, or that they are producing fewer leaves or flowers.

When is the best time to divide my overgrown herbs? 

The best time to divide overgrown herbs is in the early spring or fall. This is when the plants are not actively growing, which makes it easier to divide them without causing too much stress. It’s also important to divide your herbs when the soil is moist, as this will help to minimize shock to the plants. If the soil is dry, I advise watering the soil and letting it set for about an hour before you divide.

Some of the tools you’ll need to divide your herbs!

To divide your herbs, you’ll need a few tools. These include a sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors, a garden fork or spade, and a container or pot for your new plants. You may also want to have some compost or fertilizer on hand to give your new plants a boost. If you are dividing herbs you purchased from a garden center still in its original planter, then you’ll need to carefully remove the plant and separate. See my video.

Here are the herbs I recommend that divide easily!

Not all herbs need to be divided, but some do better when they are divided regularly. Here are a few herbs that are great candidates for dividing:

  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Thyme
  • Chives
  • Sage

5 Easy Steps to Dividing Your Overgrown Herbs!

Now that you have all of your tools ready, it’s time to start dividing your overgrown herbs. Follow these steps if you are dividing plants you already have planted or if you are dividing plants still in their original container:

  • Start by gently digging up the entire plant using your garden fork or spade. Be careful not to damage the roots. If you have a new plant in it’s original container, simply slide the whole plant out of the container.
  • Once the plant is out of the ground or container, gently shake off any excess soil. You can gently pull apart roots if they are root bound in the container.
  • Use your pruning shears or scissors to cut the plant into smaller sections. Make sure that each section has a healthy root system and a few leaves or stems.
  • Replant each section in a new container or pot, making sure to space them out evenly.
  • Water your new plants well and add some compost or fertilizer to give them a good start.

Here are a few tips & tricks for planting & caring for your newly divided herbs~

After dividing your herbs, it’s important to give them the proper care to ensure that they thrive. Here are a few tips to help you out:

  • Water your new plants regularly, but be careful not to over-water them. Herbs prefer well-drained soil, so make sure that your containers have drainage holes.
  • Place your new plants in a sunny spot. Most herbs prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
  • Pinch back any flowers or buds that appear during the first few weeks after dividing. This will help your plants to focus on growing healthy roots and leaves.
  • Fertilize your new plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
  • Harvest your herbs regularly to encourage new growth.

Avoid these common mistakes when you divide your herbs!

Dividing overgrown herbs is a relatively simple process, but there are a few common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid. These include:

  • Dividing your herbs too often. Most herbs only need to be divided every 2-3 years.
  • Don’t divide your herbs in the middle of the growing season. This can stress the plants and make it harder for them to recover.
  • Not giving your new plants enough space. Make sure that each new plant has enough room to grow and develop a healthy root system.
  • Over-watering your new plants. Herbs prefer well-drained soil, so make sure that your containers have drainage holes.

Dividing overgrown herbs is an important task for any herb gardener. By dividing your herbs, you’ll be able to keep them healthy and productive year after year. Remember to divide your herbs in the early spring or fall, and be sure to give them the proper care and attention they need to thrive. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of fresh, flavorful herbs that you can use in all of your favorite recipes.

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! 

Added bonus: You can go to my blog at http://www.fordragonfliesandme.com to purchase my original cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in either a spiral bound soft cover OR NEW, a Downloadable PDF version. The cookbook has almost 1000 recipes on almost 500 pages! Check out the Cookbook Testimonials while you’re there!

Until next time 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 Day 22 ~From Seed to Sprout: How to Tips and Tricks for Successfully Starting Seeds Indoors

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“The lesson I have thoroughly learnt, and wish to pass on to others, is to know the enduring happiness that the love of a garden gives. ” Gertrude Jekyll

If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know my passion for gardening & cooking. Of course in mind, they go hand in hand. Recently on both my Facebook & Instagram I shared starting my seeds! Well, here is the blog to go along with it! 

Whether you’re a novice or experienced gardening enthusiast, you know that starting seeds indoors is a great way to get a head start on the growing season, although if you’re new to this process, it can seem overwhelming. There are so many different brands of seeds, seed starting soil mixes, and containers to choose from, where do you even begin? 

Fear not, fellow green thumbs! Today, I’ll take you through the basics of starting seeds indoors, from selecting the right seeds to caring for your seedlings as they grow. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to refine your skills or a newbie looking to dip your toes into the world of gardening, I’ve got you covered. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some dirt, and let’s get started on our journey from seed to sprout!

Now lets chat about how to successfully start your seeds indoors!

1. What are the benefits of starting seeds indoors?

There are several benefits to gardeners when starting seeds indoors. 

  • First, it allows you to get a head start on the growing season, and who doesn’t want that! When you start your seeds indoors, you provide them the optimal conditions they need to germinate & grow before the weather outside is warm enough for outdoor planting. This allows you the opportunity to enjoy fresh produce earlier in the season.
  • Another benefit of starting seeds indoors is it gives you more control over the growing conditions. When you plant seeds outdoors, you’re at the mercy of the weather and the soil, & if you live in an area with cold winters, you know this is definitely a benefit. By starting seeds indoors, you can control the temperature, humidity, and light levels to ensure your seedlings get off to a good start.
  • Last, but certainly not least, starting seeds indoors can save you money. Buying seedlings from a nursery can be expensive, especially if you need to buy a large quantity. By starting your own seeds, you can save money and have more control over the varieties you grow.

2. What materials do I need to start my own seeds indoors?

Before you get started, you’ll need a few basic materials. Here’s a list of what I suggest you start with:

  • Seeds: Choose the seeds you want to start indoors. Make sure to choose varieties that are well-suited to your area. Like I always say, be sure to read the package instructions and guidelines for planting.
  • Seed starting containers: You can use plastic or biodegradable pots, trays, or cell flats. Make sure they have drainage holes. I save all my plastic salad, grape tomatoes, and even carry out containers to make great containers to start seeds in. 
  • Soil mix: Use a soil mix that’s specifically formulated for seed starting. It should be light, well-draining, and nutrient-rich.
  • Watering can or spray bottle: You’ll need a way to water your seedlings. Be sure all your containers, no matter what you use, have proper drainage holes & a tray of some sort to catch water under the container.
  • Grow lights: If you don’t have access to natural sunlight, you’ll need grow lights to provide your seedlings with enough light. If you have your containers in a window, be sure to turn them everyday once they sprout to avoid becoming leggy due to ‘reaching’ for the sunlight.
  • Thermometer and humidity gauge: If you want to go the whole nine yards, you can invest in a way to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in your growing area. I personally don’t use this.

3. How do I know what seeds to choose for indoor planting?

Unfortunately not all seeds are well-suited to indoor planting. Some seedlings require more light and space than you can provide indoors. If you have a four season room, this would make a great grow house, but it must be heated. 

Here are some tips for choosing the right seeds:

  • Choose seeds that are well-suited to indoor growing conditions. Look for varieties that are compact, disease-resistant, and can be grown in containers.
  • Consider the space you have available. If you have limited space, choose seeds that can be grown in small pots or trays.
  • Think about the amount of light you have available. Some seeds require more light than others. If you don’t have access to natural sunlight, choose seeds that can be grown under grow lights.

5. You really need the right soil for seed starting!

Soil preparation is key to successful indoor seed starting. Here are some tips:

  • Use a soil mix that’s specifically formulated for seed starting. These mixes are light, well-draining, and nutrient-rich.
  • Moisten the soil before planting. Use a spray bottle or watering can to moisten the soil mix before planting your seeds.
  • Avoid using garden soil for indoor seed starting. Garden soil is too heavy and can contain diseases and pests that can harm your seedlings.

7. Proper watering and fertilization are important for the health of your seedlings.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Water your seedlings regularly, but don’t overwater them. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
  • Use a spray bottle or watering can with a fine rose to water your seedlings gently.
  • Fertilize your seedlings with a diluted liquid fertilizer once they’ve developed their first set of true leaves.
  • Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for dilution rates and frequency of use.

4. Now it’s time to prepare your seed starting containers!

Once you’ve chosen your seeds, it’s time to prepare your containers. Here’s how:

  • Clean your containers: If you’re reusing containers from a previous growing season, make sure to clean them thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Add drainage holes: Make sure your containers have drainage holes in the bottom. This will allow excess water to drain away and prevent your seedlings from sitting in water, otherwise they will rot, or seedlings will drown. Watch my video for a simple how-to.
  • Fill containers with soil mix: Fill your containers with your chosen soil mix, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. I always recommend an organic blend.
  • Label your containers: Use plant labels to identify the type of seed you’re planting and the date you planted it. Don’t believe you will remember… you won’t! Trust me!

6. Sowing your seeds properly is crucial to success!

Now the fun begins, it’s time to sow your seeds. Here’s how:

  • As I constantly say, be sure to read the seed packet for specific instructions on planting depth and spacing both when direct sowing, and when you transplant out to your garden.
  • Plant your seeds at the recommended depth. This is usually two to three times the diameter of the seed.
  • Space your seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet.
  • Cover the seeds with soil mix and gently ‘tamp’ down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. I use a similar sized container so I don’t accidentally get a seed stuck to my hand! Yes it can happen!
  • Water your seeds gently using a spray bottle or watering can.

Lighting and temperature are crucial factors!

Light and temperature are critical factors for successful indoor seed starting. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Place your seedlings in a location that receives plenty of natural sunlight. If you don’t have access to natural sunlight, use grow lights.
  • Keep the temperature in your growing area between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • If you have one, or choose to purchase one, use a thermometer and humidity gauge to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in your growing area.

8. Let fun really begin~ How & when to transplant your seedlings outdoors!

Once your seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they’re ready to be transplanted outdoors. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over the course of a week.
  • Choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil.
  • Dig a hole that’s slightly larger than the root ball of your seedling.
  • Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole.
  • Backfill the hole with soil and water your seedling gently.

Indoor seed starting can be tricky, and there are several common problems that can arise.

Here are some tips for solving them:

  • Damping off: This is a fungal disease that can cause seedlings to wilt and die. To prevent damping off, make sure your containers have good drainage and avoid overwatering.
  • Leggy seedlings: If your seedlings are growing tall and spindly, they’re not getting enough light. Move them to a location that receives more sunlight or use grow lights.
  • Mold or mildew: If you see mold or mildew growing on your soil or seedlings, it’s a sign of too much moisture. Reduce watering and improve air circulation.

Starting seeds indoors can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a head start on the growing season. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy, productive seedlings.

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! 

Added bonus: You can go to my blog at http://www.fordragonfliesandme.com to purchase my original cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in either a spiral bound soft cover OR NEW, a Downloadable PDF version. The cookbook has almost 1000 recipes on almost 500 pages! Check out the Cookbook Testimonials while you’re there!

Until next time 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

How-to start Basil From Stem Cuttings

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“The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just on the body, but the soul. ” Alfred Austin

This is a really handy dandy way to get the most bang for your buck when purchasing basil plants. If you notice, when you purchase a planter with basil, there are multiple stems. Sometimes as many as 10. That in reality means there are 10 basil plants in that container. You have a couple options depending on how many plants you would like to have. 

First, you can simply and very carefully separate each of the stems, be careful not to harm the roots and replant each one. I advise trimming back some of the larger leaves so the plant’s energy will go into root development rather than trying to keep those leaves alive.

The second is what I am going to show you how to do. Let’s roll friends! Check out my easy tutorial here at my YouTube Channel!

Here’s the how to for growing basil from stem cuttings!

Step 1:

Carefully remove the plants from the container and separate each stem as best as possible.

Step 2:

Take each stem and cut it on an angle below the second set of true leaves; place in a container of water; repeat this process with each stem until you have them all done. You may need several containers of water to hold each one. I used food storage containers but anything will work as long as it is at least 2 inches deep. Be sure to keep fresh water for your stem cutting. Change the water or add every couple days as you see is needed.

2019

Step 3:

Take the remaining stems with roots attached and plant in organic soil; water regularly until new growth appears.

Step 4:

After a root system begins to appear, you will transplant them into containers with a good organic planting medium.

PRO TIP: Other containers you could use are yogurt containers, sour cream or chip containers, etc.

When you are ready to start gardening, simply transplant your seedlings into their summer homes.

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! 

For Dragonflies And Me

Weekly tips & tricks for your garden and home!

Read all posts ↓

Added bonus: You can go to my blog at http://www.fordragonfliesandme.com to purchase my original cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in either a spiral bound soft cover OR NEW, a Downloadable PDF version. The cookbook has almost 1000 recipes on almost 500 pages! Check out the Cookbook Testimonials while you’re there!

Until next time 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 Day 19: Easy How-to grow your own Ginger root!

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“Growing your own food may be one of the most powerful steps you can take for the health of yourself, your family, and your planet.” ― Lindsay Oberst (foodrevolution.org)

Did you know you could grow ginger root? Well, you sure can and it is super easy to do. I found this information provided by Penn State Extension and had to share it with all of you. I’ve also included a few recipes to use with your ginger root!

Get new recipes delivered to your inbox.

Let me know if you’ve ever grown your own, and how it worked out in the comments below! I love your feedback.

How to start your ginger indoors!

What is ginger anyway? Ginger is a subtropical plant which requires a longer growing season to reach maturity. If you live in the Midwest or any other area that has a harsh winter, you will need to start your ginger indoors and bring it in over the cold winter months. It is essential to start your ginger root indoors a couple of months before it can be planted outdoors. You can keep it in a container, or grow it in the ground.

Follow these easy steps to grow your own ginger root:

Preparing the ginger for planting:

Cut ginger root into 3-inch pieces, ensuring each contains at least three growth buds.

Allow pieces to callous over for a week before planting.

Choose a good potting mix & container:

I recommend using an organic potting soil with some type of moisture control if possible. You will need a container with a water tray. A great option is a large mixed greens plastic container. You can use the lid as the watering tray and they are the perfect depth to plant your ginger root.

Spread the soil in the container so that it is uniformly 3 inches deep and lay the ginger pieces horizontally on top.

Bury the ginger root:

Cover with an additional inch of soil.

Caring for your ginger root:

Water from the bottom every five to seven days until sprouts emerge. Then water enough to keep the soil moist but not wet.

After sprouts emerge, use a seedling heating pad and grow light to provide the necessary warmth and 16 to 18 hours of light required to get ginger established.

How to prepare & plant your ginger outdoors.

After the danger of frost has passed and the temperature at night is consistently above 40 F, ginger can be transplanted outdoors. Follow these steps:

  1. Harden off plants for five days to prepare for outdoor planting.
  2. Choose a sunny site with loose, loamy, well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. You may also grow ginger in containers if soil conditions are not favorable.
  3. Dig a shallow trench and plant ginger 3 inches deep and 12 inches apart so that sprouts are visible just above the soil. If you choose containers, plant each plant in a container with a 12-inch diameter or larger.
  4. When new shoots form or the pink shoulders of ginger are visible, hill your plants (pile more soil around the base of each shoot) with an inch of soil and add a granular fertilizer.
  5. Water plants two to three times a week, soaking them deeply.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is sometimes called ginger water and it wonderful for the stomach or gut. It is, quite simply, hot water infused with fresh ginger. It has a bit of spice which is easily adjusted by adding more ginger or letting it steep longer. Adding honey adds the final touch to make this tea a favorite for all.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 TBSP freshly grated or sliced ginger root 
  • 4 cups spring water
  • 1 TBSP fresh lime juice
  • 1 to 2 TBSP local honey, to taste

1. Peel your fresh ginger and slice it as thin as you can to maximize the surface area. This will ensure a very flavorful ginger tea.

PRO TIP: Use the large slicer side of a 4 sided cheese grater.

2. In a medium sized pot, add the water and ginger; bring to a boil for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger and tangier tea, allow to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger.

3. Remove tea from the heat, strain, and add the lime juice and honey to taste.

Dijon Ginger Dressing

This zesty dressing will make any salad better. You can use it as a marinade for chicken as well!

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 ½ TBSP grated ginger, lightly packed
  • 2 TBSP white wine vinegar
  • 1 TBSP your favorite Dijon mustard
  • 1 TBSP honey
  • ½ cup safflower or canola oil
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp pink Himalayan salt
  1. Peel your ginger and grate it finely
  2. Blend all ingredients in a small blender or immersion blender.
  3. Store refrigerated for up to 1 week.

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! 

Added bonus: You can go to my blog at http://www.fordragonfliesandme.com to purchase my original cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in either a spiral bound soft cover OR NEW, a Downloadable PDF version. The cookbook has almost 1000 recipes on almost 500 pages! Check out the Cookbook Testimonials while you’re there!

Until next time 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 conte

Resources

Spring Jobs ‘To Do List’, Plan a Plant Exchange, Successful Plant Division and Yummy Chicken Paprika!

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I took this photo last spring of the front garden. You can see the rows of
Aspragus well into it’s late stage. The bottom left corner is a part of
one of my Rhubarb rows.

For me and I believe many others, Spring holds a promise for newness of life! It’s when I look out and dream of new flower beds, anticipate the coming springs first crops of asparagus and rhubarb…savoring the memory of their here today, gone tomorrow presence. I scan the yard and think of all the jobs that I will have to get done as soon as nicer weather affords me time in my personal Eden. I anxiously await the first buds to pop on the lilacs… those small, brave tulips and daffodils, reaching up out of a cold, hard ground to the warming sunshine ready to burst forth into simple beauty! I love to meander out to my potting shed and start cleaning out and reorganizing…strolling through The Potager scanning for baby lettuces sprouting from scattered seeds… imagining the bounty and longing for my quiet time that I am able only to have in my gardens. If you are an avid If this is your first year or the beginning of one more of many, lets look to those promises and plan on a great new gardening year!  Enjoy friends!

This was my ‘new’ garden last year! It is our farms “Sausage Garden”. This
is where we grow the herbs for our sasuage blends.  Like I said… I dream of
new gardens!

Be sure to check out my new Facebook page for extra recipes, links, photo’s and more.  http://www.facebook.com/pages/For-Dragonflies-And-Me/550000798362651?skip_nax_wizard=true

Most of my readers know that I love anything to do with organization and List Making. I could never do without lists… grocery, housework, to-do, seed inventories or packing for trips (not that I take many, LOL). Lists make our lives easier, especially for forgetful folks like me! Today we’ll focus on Spring Garden Jobs. Here is my personal list for you to save and print out if/when you would like. You have my permission to use and share it with friends for personal use. LIST IS LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST.


Keep a journal!  A journal can be your best friend if you let it. Document all the changes you make, take photographs of major projects, renovations and specific growth of particular plants that you want to watch mature over years, like trees.  I stand my children beside a newly planted tree and take a photo every year. It is amazing to see how much they both grow and change!
I also go over to see what plants will need to be split, pitched and replaced if died over the winter and what spots need to be filled in.  Keeping these detailed notes also allows me to remember who may have given a particular plant along with the who, what and when; no more guessing on age or variety. It also gives you the ability to see what worked and didn’t. I know as a busy wife, mother, farmer, market vendor and manger, I could never remember everything that I change, plant or didn’t like/work. 

Here are a couple really good site’s to check out for gardening info!
Gardening Tips and Tricks  http://www.facebook.com/GardeningTipsAndTricks?ref=stream
Weekend Gardener at   http://www.weekendgardener.net/do-list.htm
Seeds Of The Month Club  http://www.facebook.com/SeedsOfTheMonthClub?ref=stream
 
Be sure to keep posted, coming up in my next post I will touch on DRAWING UP YOUR GARDEN PLAN!
 
Planning a Plant Exchange is a great way to share all those ‘splits’ you will end up with this Spring after cleaning up your beds. I know for myself, I can hardly pitch a plant, it just seems mean! A plant exchange is not only rewarding and fun, it’s a great money saver in the long run.  As most of you know I also love to entertain… I don’t get to do it as often as I would like, but when I do I try to make it special for my guests! I gave all the How-To’s last year on hosting a Plant Exchange (XXXXX), so today I thought I’d focus on some info on types of plants that transplant well.  I have also added tips on division and transplanting. 

Helpful tips to prepare for the Plant Exchange:  (Taken and adapted from Country Gardens Magazine, Spring 2006, pg. 55-57).
How to divide, care for and prepare your transplants for the exchange:
*The best time to divide a plant is shortly after it emerges in spring.
*Try to divide the plants as close to the plant exchange date/time as possible.
*Loosen the soil around the plants perimeter and then use a sharp spade or knife to cut through the roots to divide.  Be sure to keep a large root clump with the plant to ensure successful transplanting.
*Put your divisions in practical, temporary containers: paper cups, disposable aluminum muffin cups, tin cans, plastic containers, plastic plant pots/ terra-cotta pots or any other container you have handy. Just be sure to add drainage holes to water tight containers. 
*Give a tag/label with each division including: name/variety of plant, sun/shade requirements, mature plant size- height and diameter, water/soil requirements, zone hardiness, perennial or annual. A nice description for ‘new’ gardeners will be so appreciated.
*Make sure to plant/water as soon as possible once you have the plants in their new location.
 
How to harvest seedlings:
*Be sure that the seedlings are at least 3-5 inches tall with at least 2 sets of true leaves.
*Get all the plants roots.
*Replant the seedling into a small container with appropriate drainage holes and gently water immediately.

 
 
Red Oak Leaf lettuce seedling in one of the raised beds along side spinach.

 
 

Plants that divide easily and transplant well include:
*Hosta’s
*Day Lilies
*Bleeding Heart
*Peony
*Bee’s Balm (Monarda)
*Black Eye Susan, Shasta Daisy’s and any Coneflowers
*Columbine
*Sedum
*perennial Geraniums
*Hellianthus
*Purple Bellflower
*any early blooming bulbs that have bloomed and died back at least half way- Snow Drops, Crocus, Daffodils, Tulips
~I always say, if in doubt, do without… so if you are not sure about one of your plants, ASK! Or look up in a good garden guild any special tricks that certain plants may have before you divide if you are not sure.
 
I took this photo of my Bistro Garden two years ago in mid Spring when all the hosta’s were fully open. In the back you can see my front arbor, which is now completely covered by a Sweet Autumn Clematis… see photo of it on my Dragonfly Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/pages/For-Dragonflies-And-Me/550000798362651?skip_nax_wizard=true
Here is the same location but taken last year in early summer. Notice the arbor now covered in Clematis… she is stunning when in full bloom… and oh the aroma she gives off. This is an example of  taking shots of the same location but at different times and years can give you. 

Last summer I bought a yellow climbing rose bush to give to my son as a token of ‘our friendship” He planted it and then I took the phot of him and it… in a few years it will cascade and cover this side of the picket beside the front arbor.

 
This is a very favorite recipe in our home. It was Neil’s mothers recipe that she had made and over the years I have adjusted it a bit to serve our large family. It is super yummy and worth the efforts in making!

Chicken Paprika

1 Whole Chicken, cut into pieces with or without skin/bones
1/2 cup Safflower Oil
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 large onion, diced
8 cups water
2 Tbsp. Paprika
1 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. pepper
1 cup sour cream
1 bag Spaetzel dumpling noodles

1. Put flour in a large bowl; coat each piece of chicken and place in a large skillet with hot oil, reserve left over flour; fry chicken pieces in hot oil until browned all all sides; remove chicken to plate.  Put remaining flour and diced onions in pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add to skillet and onions: water, paprika, salt and pepper and cooked chicken; cover and simmer for 1 hour.  The water will thicken as it cooks. Stir occasionally.
3. While chicken is simmering, cook Spaetzel dumpling noodles according to package directions so they will be ready when chicken/gravy are done; about 1/2 hour before.
4. When chicken is done, remove from gravy into a bowl; cover to keep warm; add sour cream to gravy and blend in until dissolved.
5. When dumplings are done put them in a bowl and ladle 1/2 of the gravy over top and the rest over the chicken. 
Serve immediately.

Happy Day,
Jean


Spring Garden Job To Do List, by Jean Smith        
May be copied and used for personal use only.
Date Task     Comleted Y N Notes    
  Front Porch/Patio Areas          
sweep/ blow/ rake
put out furniture
repot planters/ window boxes
repairs if any- make note is so
touch up painting- pots
furniture
structures
correct any patio stones
new project
new project
new project
  Flower Bed Clean/Prep          
clean any debres left over
check for dead plants
remove and replace
make note of what
amend soil/add fertilizer
make note of what
Divide plants
make note of what
Plant  trees
shrubs
list what & when
Direct seed any spring flowering annuals
Forget me not
dianthus
English daisy
sweet William
viola
Transplant  before leaf buds open
roses
shrubs
ornamental trees
Fertilize Peonies when 2-3 inches tall
Divide and transfer any flowering bulbs after they have died back and divide flowering bulbs after they have died back
Clean ponds/fountains/water featues
repairs- make notes
other
other
other
Date Task     Comleted Y N Notes    
  Vegetable Garden/ Raised Beds          
amend soil
make note of what
make note of when
clean any debris 
plant spring crops when soil is ready
EARLY peas greens spinach chard
radishes lettuce kale parsley
LATE potatoes carrots
onions beets
check trelises/ posts/ fences
repair raised beds if loose
add soil if needed
  Potting Shed/ Storage Shed           
General Tidy after winter
sweep out
re-organize pots/ labels
repair any tools that need
oil/ sharpen tools
inventory items:
dirt
seeds
flats/trays/pots
ferilizer/herbicides/
insecticides
labels/ 
other
other
other
check hoses/sprinklers
make a list of what you need as you go
check mower- plugs
sharpen blades/replc.
check tiller(s)
have supply of gas/oil for machines
other
other
other
other
  Pruning/ Propogation            
evergreen shrubs before growthj re growth
spring flowering shrubs after flowering
propagate deciduous shrubs
forsythia
winter jasmine
Date Task     Comleted Y N Notes    
  Weed/Pest Control            
make sure debris is cleaned up to avoid snails and slugs
as soon as roses start to leaf out, dust with an organic powder
repeat once a month all summer!
watch for Tent Worms in your trees, webs in trees
as soon as visiable, spray with organic spray
****use burn technique*** please research this before you do it.
on sidewalks
driveways

 

 garden