Author name: oliviajones

What type of rake is best for leaves? Leaf rake. Rather than leaf blowing, which can be a noisy and messy job, using a leaf rake is a quieter and more environmentally friendly option. Leaf rakes have a broad, fan-shaped head and are made from metal, rubber or plastic, with tines that curve down to […]

What time of year is best to build a shed? Purchasing and building your shed in spring ensures that it’s ready for use in the summer. Whether you plan to use it for storing gardening tools, summer sports equipment, or as an extra space to relax, having your shed ready to go when summer arrives

Is Creeping Jenny a good ground cover? I LOVE creeping Jenny, it’s one of my favorites and is a very lovely groundcover with little flowers and the best lemon lime color. It’s great for keeping weeds down — it’s a vigorous grower when happy and forms a nice thick carpet, but not at all aggressive

What is the disadvantage of metal planters? Metal planters have a tendency to absorb heat, posing a risk to delicate plants and soil moisture levels. Exposure to direct sunlight can lead to overheating, potentially damaging roots and foliage. Liners can protect metal planters (like Corten or galvanized steel) from water exposure, slowing down rust or

What will kill moss permanently? Moss in lawns is a persistent issue, but the right approach can help keep it under control. Ferrous Sulphate is the fastest, most cost-effective, and most reliable lawn moss killer. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the moss, leave it overnight, then sweep and scrub the area. This method is safe

Can you grow petunias from seed? Petunia seeds should germinate in 7 to 10 days. Remove the plastic food wrap or dome as soon as germination occurs. Then place the seedlings under supplemental lights or in a sunny window. Lights should be no more than 4 to 6 inches above the plants and should be

Is English ivy good or bad? The leaves and fruit of English ivy are toxic to humans and livestock and the sap can irritate skin. Despite the economic and environmental cost, nurseries continue to sell English ivy, and consumers continue to buy and plant it in their gardens. English ivy pruning depends on growth and

Do cordylines like shade or sun? They like a warm sheltered position, with fertile well-drained soil. Read our guide on how to assess your garden conditions. Full sun is ideal for green-leaved cordylines, but light shade is preferable for those with colourful or variegated leaves, as strong sun can fade their rich hues. Cordylines suffer

Is Verbena bonariensis a perennial or annual? This plant is perennial in zones 7 to11 and is grown as an annual in cooler climates. It is considered a weed in many mild climates, such as California, Texas, Australia and southern Africa, where it has naturalized. The flowers are borne in clusters atop long stems. Best

Where does wisteria vine grow best? Wisteria grows best is moist soil with full, or at least partial sun. It normally uses a strong nearby tree for support, but also grows on fences, trellises, or pergolas. It makes a lovely ‘ceiling’ for a pergola over a porch or deck. Why is a planting of wisteria