garden projects
13 January 2013, by gj
You gotta love the internet.
There are so many people sharing their ideas and projects, ways to save money and how-to info, that’s it’s all but impossible not to learn something.
seed starting kit $9.97
I don’t know who first came up with the idea of recycling plastic produce containers into mini-greenhouses.
I suspect it was a ‘Necessity is the Mother of Invention’ kind of thing, and thought up by a number of people in different places.
So when I came upon these seed-starting kits while out shopping, I had to chuckle. As tempting as they were, I knew better.
Much larger, for less on sale.
One plastic container that housed some delicious organic greens recently, a dozen Jiffy seed starting pellets, and some saved pepper seeds.
Voila.
Cost: $1
Moisten the pellets as per the directions, add seeds. Keep moist until seeds sprout.
The snug lid acts like a greenhouse, letting light in but keeping the seeds warm. Remove the lid as the plants grow.
Categories: all about seeds, garden projects, how to grow
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25 November 2012, by gj
Please refer to part 1 and part 2 here.
The mini greenhouse was almost finished at this point.
All that was left was to see how it works, or so I thought.
I found there were some gaps between the windows and their frames, because the windows were not perfectly flat.
ack- a leak!
This was easy enough to fix with just a can of spray foam insulation.
it is great stuff
Although this stuff is somewhat messy to work with, it fills any gaps easily and when it dries it can be trimmed with a sharp knife.
Weather stripping was added to the front doors for additional protection.
done deal
Some milk jugs spray painted black and almost filled with water were placed inside. These will absorb heat during the day and help keep the temperature up overnight.
keep it warm
I went through a few different ways to hang the front windows in order to gain access to the interior while still keeping it warm.
What worked best in the end was to hinge the windows on the outer sides so that they open as a door would.
To not lose too much warm air though, I took a large sheet of plastic twice the height I needed and equal to the width. It was folded in half and stapled to 2 leftover pieces of wood.
heat insurance
This was then stapled inside the front opening. The wood on the bottom will help hold the plastic down.
Of course it would be easier to do this prior to attaching the front panel- hindsight is wonderful.
fairly taut
Finally a latch was attached to the front to help keep it shut tight.
ta da!
I’ve been monitoring temperatures and the interior is from 5-12 degrees warmer, less first thing in the morning or on a cloudy day.
I expect this will be better later in the winter when the days are longer and the sun is closer.
An overnight low of 50 degrees F. is needed before tomato plants can go inside, so when Mandolin asked me what I wanted for Christmas this year I didn’t hesitate. Instead I directed him to a hi-low thermometer, also called min-maximum. This records the overnight low and will help me know when I can start using the new addition to the garden.
just a matter of time now
Yahoo- Planting time is coming sooner this year!
Categories: extending the season, garden projects, keeping up with the joneses
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24 November 2012, by gj
If you haven’t already, you can read part 1 here.
After the 3 sides were together, clear plastic was attached to the windows to help better insulate.
Three 2×4 posts were attached that are 1 ft. taller than the framed-in area, increasing the back height by 1/3.
added protection
Landscaping fabric was put down to help keep any weeds out. Even though this is on gravel, some weeds still get through. You could also use cardboard just as easily.
To help hold it in place, sand and stones from long ago projects were put on top.
The sand will also help keep in some moisture, and the stones will hold a small amount of the day’s heat.
Using a few pieces of scrap lumber, a base was made to add a shelf.
here comes the shelf
Scraps of 1×2′s were used to complete the shelf. This will allow some plants to be on the top area and more below.
As long as they all get enough sun, this should work fine.
2 growing areas
The front panel was added next. If you look close you can see that the front windows were hinged at the top to open upwards. This was later changed and I’ll talk about that tomorrow.
Three pieces of 2×4′s were used to build the top section. To get the right angle of cut, hold one piece of wood on the outside against the back supports and the front frame. Mark the angle where they meet, and cut those off.
This picture was taken before the third piece was added to the middle of the greenhouse, to further support the top windows.
upper area construction
Pieces of leftover wood siding were used to enclose the back and sides, one rectangular piece and 2 triangular pieces. I got lucky and found a scrap that was almost the exact angle I needed. Woohoo!
To get more insulation in these areas, garbage bags were stapled onto the inside of the siding, leaving an opening. Assorted other bags were then stuffed inside. The dark bag will collect some warmth during the day to help keep the inside warmer all night.
insulation- the more the better
Two windows that are the same width as the others, but longer, were then added to the top. There were gaps found where the windows met the frames (I’m a gardener, not a carpenter) so additional clear plastic was attached to the outer perimeter of the inside of the window frames. I gathered a wider piece than the frame, so it would be a bit bulky. This helped it fit so there will be less temperature loss.
scrunch it up
They were then attached with hinges on the front to open from the top, allowing excess heat to be vented out when the weather warms up.
You can see moisture developing inside the window panes.
=Happy Gardener!
warming up
Categories: extending the season, garden projects, keeping up with the joneses
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23 November 2012, by gj
It was 3 years ago on the day after Thanksgiving that I first admitted my addiction to gardening via this blog format.
In all that time I have never wavered from where I firmly stand- in the garden of course.
This month something I have always wanted came to pass, albeit in a smaller form. So over the next few days you’ll find pics and directions of how this mini-greenhouse was built. Maybe it will help you to do the same.
Hey, if I can do it so can you.
free windows
The project began when a nearby neighbor, who remodels homes for a living, offered some used windows for free.
It was a win-win really, as he didn’t then need to dispose of them.
I love stuff like that.
Using 6 windows the same size, a design was sketched showing 2 windows on the front, 2 more on the back, and 1 on each side.
measure twice, cut once
Step 1 was to build frames for the windows buy cutting 2×4′s the proper length and then sawing the ends at 45 degree angles.
When all the pieces were ready, they were clamped down (on the picnic table) and nailed together.
clamp 'em down
one down and 3 to go
The windows for the back and sides were then carefully nailed in place.
the back is done
It’s a good idea to assemble this where it will eventually remain, preferably facing south but more importantly where it will get the most sun. If you live in a wooded area, keep in mind that the majority of the time it will be in use all but the evergreen trees will be bare or just budding.
Since this was built in November it was easy to gauge.
attach the sides to the back
You’ll want to get the 3 sides together first, so you can make some additions to the inside before the final wall is up.
it's coming together
This is where the nail gun ran out of nails, and I had forgotten to ask Mandolin how to reload it.
Hmmm… a good time to take a break. 
Categories: extending the season, garden projects, keeping up with the joneses
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24 August 2012, by gj
It’s not unusual for people to ask us what they should look for in a greenhouse, or even for a brand recommendation.
So when the subject came up again recently, it seemed it was time to get some info on here to share.
Here’s what to consider before you buy or build:
1. Location, Location, Location: You’ll want your greenhouse where it will get the most sun. Morning sunlight is best to get a plant going (its like coffee to your plants) so if you can locate your greenhouse on the south or southeast side of your house or property that would be best.
You most likely have some cold weather if you are even considering a greenhouse, right? So remember when looking at your property that those trees, unless evergreens, won’t have leaves on them in the winter; so don’t rule out a location just because of a few trees.
The North of your property will get the least sun, so shy away from building there.
When choosing a location, also pre-check any zoning laws or homeowners association rules for your area.
location transformation
2.Cost: If money is no object, good for you! Move on to the next item.
For most of us, though, it matters. You may want to consider building your own greenhouse. If you have the necessary tools you can save some money, more so if you can re-purpose old windows.
We are lucky in that there is a home builder, that also does remodels, not far from here. He is kind enough to put windows and doors curbside (so to speak, we don’t actually have curbs) for others to have for free.
You can also try Craig’s List, The Freecycle Network, or other sources for free items to use.
Things like this can save a lot.
gathering materials- for free
3. Size Matters: Directly linked to cost, the size of your greenhouse can be determined by a few other factors: Location (see above) and-
4. Specific Purpose: My Dad built a freestanding greenhouse that I would estimate is about 6 ft. x 6 ft., with a roof peak that is also probably 6 ft. He uses it only to grow seedlings. He doesn’t start them there, he just moves them there to get bigger. There’s only room to stand up in the middle, but that’s enough- the two sides have glass shelves far enough apart for his plants to grow, and that’s what he built it for.
On the other hand, our greenhouse will need to be a much taller lean-to type that will be used over a longer period of time. Location is also playing a major roll in determining it’s size.
We hope to start seeds there and keep at least one tomato plant growing inside into the fall months, past the killing frost.
How do you plan to use your greenhouse? That will help you decide how much room you will need.
small windows for manual, or womanual, venting
5. Time: This human construct seems to be a factor in almost everything. How do you spend your days? Will you have the time to monitor temperatures inside the structure and manually open vents, or do you need automatic sensors and vent openers? Will you need fans to help cool or a heater to keep it warm?
Your local cooperative extension office may have more information to help you decide, or make you even more confused, than before.
We will keep you up-to-date on our greenhouse project.
In the meantime, here’s some good info to look at:
Planning & Building a Greenhouse
Categories: extending the season, garden projects, keeping up with the joneses
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1 May 2012, by gj
There’s this odd tendency for seeds to just accumulate in my house.
Really, I don’t know how it happens.
So when faced with 16 packets of carrot seeds, it was time to do something about it.
seedaholism
Seed tapes.
Easy to do, can be frozen and kept until planting time.
Perfect.
easy enough for kids to do
To make a seed tape, you will need seeds (no problem there!), non-toxic glue, and some form of biodegradable fabric or paper- the faster is gives, the faster your seeds will sprout; so I use bathroom tissue.
Place a spot of glue the distance you want to space your seeds.
Remember, if you are going by what the seed packet says, look for the ‘thin’ to distance if there is one.
For example, carrot seed packets advise to “Thin to 2-3 inches apart” so that’s how far apart to put the glue.
just fold over
Fold in half and you are done.
You can keep these in the freezer until planting time.
ta da!
Plant the tape at the same depth you would have planted the seed.
In this case, not too deep. Cover with soil and water.
planting is easy
Of course if you water if frequently, it will sprout sooner, and any residual paper will decompose.
Plant your tapes the same distance apart you would have planted the seeds.
Since I plant in raised beds, this is the same distance as is suggested between seeds.
You can store unused tapes in the freezer- I know I can stagger my carrot plantings throughout the season, so now I have some tapes ready to go.
planting is easy
This works wonderfully for any small seeds…and I have tons of them.
Do you ‘accumulate’ seeds as well?
I’ve heard that moderation in all things is the best way.
consider this limit ex'seed'ed
If only I could practice that.
Categories: addiction, garden projects
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24 February 2012, by gj
Tiny Treasures – a guest post by Arlena Schott
Garden Wise Living TV
(with photo comments by GJ)
a world of its own
When I think about Miniature Gardening I smile …those tiny little Chairs and Miniature Chandeliers are enough to bring the kid out in all of us
I will never refer to Miniature Gardening as a Trend.
A trend leads us to believe that there is an end, but in fact Miniature Gardening becomes
an obsession.
how inviting!
Be Creative
The best part about Miniature and fairy gardening is being creative. There are so many wonderful Tiny Treasures, plants and miniature accessories.
Creativity is the biggest part. No rules, no scale just jump in with both hands and have fun.
Nature provides us with a vast resource of things to use in our miniature and fairy gardens.
Moss makes a perfect accent and can set the stage for a Fairy Wonderland.
Twigs and sticks can be stacked to create a timber look along with some well placed stones and a pebble path and you may create a Woodland Theme adorned with the woodland Accessories by Jeremie.
Sculpey Clay can be used as a fun way to make some miniature accessories. I made miniature pumpkins and tiny ghosts with Sculpey Clay for a Halloween themed miniature garden.
'harvesting' miniature pumpkins
My husband Steve Schott made me a tiny Chicken Coop for one of my miniature gardens so I created a basket full of eggs to go with it.
The Ideas can become endless and inspiring, let the juices flow and most of all
Have Fun~
mini chicken coop complete with eggs
Here are several different ways to enjoy Miniature and Fairy Gardening.
Indoor Table Top
Indoor table top miniature gardens may be planted using a container or a terrarium that is planted with small indoor plants and decorated with a miniature settee all ready for a tiny tea party.
Out Door Table Top
Out door table top miniature gardens are a fun way to use unique containers or shabby sheik ideas like planting in an old wheelbarrow or an old wash tub, even an antique tea cup becomes the perfect setting for our tiny treasures.
Planting an out door miniature table top or container garden gives us the options to select the plants that pertain to the light source we are placing the containers in.
I just love this!
Raised Bed Miniature Gardens
A raised bed miniature garden can be a wonderful way to share the love of gardening with our children and grandchildren, being just eye level gives them a feeling of being lost in the garden with the Fairy’s .
Raised Bed Miniature gardening also allows many seniors to continue to enjoy the love of gardening in an easy to maintain raised garden.
Secret Miniature Garden Spots
I love to wander through a garden and discover hidden tiny landscapes complete with tiny treasures like Castles and Small Cottages surrounded by little vignettes that peek out at us as we wander through our gardens.
Full Landscape Miniature Gardens
Full size landscapes can be filled with miniature accessories and add such a whimsical feel to any landscape. Miniature Conifers, Miniature Hostas and many of your favorite perennials can be used to adorn a small village and provide lots of space for our fairy folk to live.
No mater how you choose to create your Miniature or Fairy Garden just remember, it is all about the having fun and being creative …allow your mind to wander to those tiny places and create Miniature and Fairy Gardens full of Tiny Treasures.
chicken coop themed garden
Please join us over on Face Book at the Miniature and Fairy Garden Chat Group and follow along as Arlena travels across the country this season to speak at Independent Garden Centers on Miniature and Fairy Gardening
www.gardenwiseliving.com
“I may be coming to an Independent Garden Center near you”
Green Blessings ~Arlena
NOTE from GJ- this post really inspired me to add more minis to my gardens this year- how fun!
In case you missed the other posts:
Part 1- GJ’s First Fairy Garden
Parts 2 and 3 -Patti Kuhlman’s posts on Fairy Gardens
Categories: fairy and miniature gardens, garden projects, gardening, gardening people, places & things
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10 February 2012, by gj
Today’s post is from a more experienced Fairy Garden maker- Patti Kuhlman. Patti primarily offers wholesale fairy garden items, but graciously agreed to write for us.
fairy garden fire pit
What is a Fairy Garden?
It is a small whimsical place where fairies reside.
It is said that a fairy garden will bring laughter, joy and magic to your home.
even fairies need to rest
How to build a Fairy Garden
There are four primary steps to building a fairy garden:
(1) Select a container
(2) fill the container with soil
(3) Select plants for the garden
(4) decorate the garden with tiny “Fairy” accessories.
USA made fairy house
Fairy gardens are made in a wide variety of low profile containers approximately 3” to 7” tall.
The overall size, shape and color of the container will depend upon individual preference.
You should select a container that will nicely highlight your décor and selected location.
The next step is to fill the container with soil. I generally fill the container nearly to the top, leaving a 1” space at the top, with a potting soil containing nutrients.
Because that soil generally not a dark black color, I then place black top soil over the nutrient soil to give the garden a nice black finished look.
If you want to add a touch of sparkle to the garden, you can lightly sprinkle the top soil with a very fine grade of glitter in any color of your preference. I generally use just a touch of silver glitter.
After the soil is in the garden, the next step is to add the plants you have selected.
The type of plants you select will be dependent on whether your garden will be an indoor or outdoor garden and the geographic area where you live. All plants, regardless of whether they are used in an indoor or outdoor container garden, should be small in scale.
A good source for purchasing such plants is Micky’s Minis at www.mickyminis.org / 1-800-753-6464.
a fairy garden
Personally I tend to use miniature succulents in the garden I create because they do not require a lot of attention, but if you have a “green thumb”, there are many miniature plants you can choose from.
However, an important consideration in selecting your plants is to purchase varieties that require the same amount of sun and water.
Plants that have tiny leaves and plants that have a tree-like shape fit particularly well in fairy gardens.
And remember-Fairies love to hide, so place several plants in your garden, particularly in the corners!
More info on Fairy Gardens every Friday in February- Thanks Patti! ~GJ
Fairy Gardens part 1
Categories: addiction, fairy and miniature gardens, garden projects, gardening people, places & things, gifts from the garden
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3 February 2012, by gj
plants and power tools, gotta love it
As a child I vividly remember watching one evening as the fairies danced and played on top of the tall grasses in the fields near our house.
I have no idea where the memory comes from- a dream perhaps, or a book- but the memory remains.
seeds for planting and for decorating
So when I heard about ‘Fairy Gardens’ recently I was immediately intrigued.
The folklore goes that if a Fairy takes up residence in your garden, your plants will benefit.
So- how do you attract a Fairy or two?
Simple- give them a place to live.
So this is my first Fairy House.
Over the remaining Fridays this month you’ll learn more about Fairy Gardens from a few guest authors.
a nice thatched roof and windows for a little light
Oh- but hold the phone!
This is First Friday- which means a give-away.
oh I see she's been collecting marbles
How abut a few plants-or perhaps some furniture?
Better yet- a surprise!
ooops- she's missed a few
Just leave a comment here. If it’s your first time, I’ll just need to approve it before it shows up.
I’ll let the online randomizer choose two names on Monday- and they will each receive a package to help them get going on a Fairy Garden of their own.
Fairies in the garden? Oh yeah, I’ve seen them.
Making Gourd Bowls and Planters
Wake Up! with guest Jayne Locas
NOTE 2/6/12Thank you all for your comments and for stopping by the blog! Through the use of Random.org’s online randomizer, the first 2 names to come up were Trish and Tom.
Remember every First Friday there will be a chance to win something gardening related!
Categories: fairy and miniature gardens, garden projects, gardening people, places & things, keeping up with the joneses, odds and ends
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20 January 2012, by gj
Our gardens provide us with beauty, with food, and with good health-
they can also provide us with ‘items’.
at the Lebanon Farm Market
The list of what plant life can be turned into items is long.
For example, most of us have come into contact with a wooden bowl- did you know they can actually be made out of wood, not just wood-looking plastic?
Probably the most common example of growing items is found with gourds.
ready to hold those pretty flowers
Our American Indians knew the value of this vegetable-
Canteen Gourds were used for carrying water
Dipper Gourds for spoons and other utensils
Birdhouse gourd bottoms were often used as bowls, and as molds for clay bowls
at the Green Dragon Farm Market
Over the course of this upcoming season I hope to be able to introduce you to a few more plants-to-items like this.
For now, I’m going to show you a few gourds turned into birdhouses.
paisley woodburn pattern
I already talked about how to grow birdhouse gourds,
but I also wanted to get a little more specific on how easy it is to refinish one-
or better yet, how much fun.
Gourds are a plant life and very similar to wood when it comes to crafting them.
You can use stains, oil pencils, paints…
decoupage, wood-burn, weave like baskets…
woodburn plus colored oil pencils
…pretty much any way you can finish a wood piece you can finish a gourd.
To me, that’s what makes them so much fun.
You can also take them beyond crafting- and into Art Form.
at Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art
Indian woman holding baby
No matter what you choose to do in life-
always remember to have fun.
I sure hope the birds can read.
More on Crafting Gourds
Growing Gourds
Drying Gourds
Categories: garden projects, gifts from the garden, how to grow, odds and ends
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