Norman | EDEN'S GARDEN

Plants That Hide Outdoor Structures

January 23, 2021August 18, 2018 by Norman

Bringing beauty to that eyesore

Mandevilla Vine-vines-in-the-landscape — *Mandevilla Vine*

There is nothing like an eyesore that takes away from something which was meant to beautify and give that wow, it is like being dressed in a nice suit, hair well-groomed but wearing shoes that are old, dirty, and worn out with holes.

It does not matter how well dressed and groomed that person maybe because of the condition of their shoes it will take away from what that person was hoping to create. Those worn-out shoes would be distracting and so it is with certain outdoor structures and features.

Have you ever seen a home that is so beautiful as you observe it with much admiration then out of nowhere it catches you by surprise or hits you like a lightning bolt, a structure or feature that leaves you with your mouth hanging open, probably wondering what was the homeowner thinking off or why didn’t they fix that problem which is so distracting? What are some features even though serving a purpose is an eyesore?

Some features that may be visible and distracting

How To Grow Tomatoes In Containers

July 29, 2022August 14, 2018 by Norman

Tips for Growing Tomatoes in Containers

Tomatoes-how-to-grow-tomatoes-in-containers — *Tomatoes growing on vines*

What I love about gardening is growing foods from my backyard, this is a great way to provide both for myself and my family.

But an issue that many homeowners face is having the space to install a garden where they can grow fresh garden vegetables, fruits, and herbs that has so many benefits besides their great taste.

The good news is all is not lost because no matter how limited your space there is still room to have a garden you can be proud of. The solution to planting in small garden spaces is using containers to create a container garden.

Many persons over the years and yes even today have gone on to have much success with this type of garden. So what we will be looking at is how to take that small or limited space to grow tomatoes.

Lemon Balm Tea Benefits

January 27, 2021August 3, 2018 by Norman

Sweetly healing naturally

Lemon balm-lemon-balm-tea-benefits — *Lemon balm tea*

Lemon balm herb is dated back to more than 2,000 years ago which means this herb has seen many generations. Lemon balm has a lemony taste that can flavor your foods.

Lemon balm herb is a native of northern African and southern Europe. This herb belongs to the mint family and is a perennial plant. Back in ancient times, it was believed that making lemon balm a part of your diet contributed to living longer.

Many restaurants worldwide use lemon balm herb to flavor many of their popular dishes. But besides its wonderful flavors what other benefits does this herb serve.

Lemon balm tea benefits

My personal experience

What I love about herbs is they can be included in our diet to bring natural healing. Many products that are sold on the market to promote healing have so many side effects.

How To Care For Birds In The Winter

January 20, 2021July 30, 2018 by Norman

Helping wildlife to weather the winter months

Bluejay resting in the snow-how-to-care-for-birds-in-the-winter — *Blue jay resting in the snow*

Summer has passed, spring is gone and fall is here. Winter is following close by as our gardens and landscapes are preparing to be matted with snow while nature goes into that long-awaited rest. This is the time of year that we experience a winter wonderland.

For some, this is a wonderful occasion and for others, there is the thought of wishing for spring where nature is bursting with activity as our landscapes and gardens are painted with an array of colorful flowering plants.

What makes spring and summer days really awesome is watching and listening to birds singing so sweetly in the summer breeze, but with winter approaching their singing slowly fades as they prepare for those long winter months.

Homemade Herb Seasoning

January 15, 2021July 28, 2018 by Norman

Creating Your Orginal Secret Recipe

Herb-home-made-herb-seasoning — *Herb seasoning*

I am sure some of us, if not all of us, have eaten out and had such an awesome experience that we made that restaurant one of our frequent visits also telling family and friends about it.

Both my family and I eat out whenever we can and there is one particular restaurant that we visit often called O Andros which is located at a place we call the fish fry where locals and tourists gather to eat and socialize.

The prices are not only good but the foods are just as great which makes this experience so good so if you ever decide on taking a trip to the Bahamas, in particular, Nassau which is the capital be sure and inquire about O Andros that is at the fish fry trust me you will love it.

O Andros foods are very delicious because of the ingredients that are added to their dishes which makes these foods outstanding and is enjoyed so much by persons who eat there.

Vegetable Peel Health Benefits

January 22, 2021July 24, 2018 by Norman

Healing naturally with vegetable peels

Vegetables-vegetable-peel-health-benefits — *Vegetables*

In my last article, we looked at fruit peel health benefits. In this article, however, we will be discussing vegetable peel health benefits and how they can bring natural healing to our bodies

As it is with fruit peels so it is with vegetable peels, in fact, vegetable peels are thrown out more often than fruit peels but do you know that vegetable peels are loaded with

nutrients and vitamins that can do our bodies a lot of good. Do you remember how it was when we were kids and got that serving of vegetables what our parents would often say to us, “eat your veggies” and for some of us this was a nightmare that we wanted to awaken from but sad to say it was not a dream but a reality we were faced with and that was eating our vegetables?

Fruit Peel Health Benefits

January 27, 2021July 21, 2018 by Norman

Promoting Your Health with Fruit Peels

Orange peel-fruit-peel-health-benefits — *Orange peel*

Don’t trash the gold use it to promote your health

There is an old saying which goes “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” which is so true. Over the years fruit peels have been viewed as useless and discarded or thrown away. But slowly the benefits of fruit peels have been discovered to benefit our bodies in so many ways.

Fruit peels that were once looked upon as junk or trash are now being embraced and use to promote one’s health. These peels are loaded with vitamins and nutrients

Fruit Peel Health Benefits

Fruit Peels are diverse from smooth to coarse even hairy in the case of kiwi fruits. The skin of some fruits can be consumed raw such as apple, grapes, pears, etc.. and there are some fruit peels that can be used to make tea such as orange, mango and so on but how can we use these fruit peel to our advantage.

Orange Peel Tea Benefits

Vines In The Landscape

January 23, 2021July 19, 2018 by Norman

Using Climbers to Create Beauty

Creeping Vines-vines-in-the-landscapes — *Creeping Vines*

The world of plants is so diverse that it’s mind-blowing. There are thousands to choose from with their varied styles, colors, and growing habits that it’s possible to create gardens that meet your needs providing you with the opportunity to create your dream garden.

Among the thousands of plants that grace our landscapes, vines are among this group that have so much to offer. I have worked with many species of vines over the years on many garden and landscape projects that made such an impact enhancing the overall design.

How To Grow Tarragon

January 15, 2021July 15, 2018 by Norman

Simple steps to grow tarragon

Mexican tarragon-how-to-grow-tarragon — *Mexican tarragon*

The world of garden herbs is so fascinating that it is just mind-blowing. Garden herbs have been around and enjoyed by many generations for hundreds of years. The flavors and natural healing these herbs bring is so amazing.

Herbs can be used from flavoring foods, for enhancing one’s health, even use as repellents to keep insects at bay. Can you imagine a world without herbs? I know I can’t, In this article, we will be discussing how to grow tarragon that can really spice up your foods giving it that BANG. The leaves of tarragon have such a pleasant aroma and the taste is somewhat peppery.

Tarragon is used to flavor many dishes including rice, baked meats, sauces steam foods, broil foods, soups, salads, etc.. having this herb as a part of your seasoning will give your foods that added flavor that will go a long way in really enhancing the taste of your foods.

How to grow tarragon

Simple steps to grow tarragon

Rosemary Tea Health Benefits

January 27, 2021July 14, 2018 by Norman

12 benefits of drinking rosemary tea

Rosemary tea-rosemary- tea- benefits — *Rosemary Herb*

Rosemary Herb has an amazing aroma and the flavors of this herb are truly out of this world. I learned about this herb many years ago, since then I have been stuck on rosemary and used it ever since.

I believe for anyone who wants to wake up or spruce up their dishes giving it that WOW this herb is key. Word of caution here rosemary is very powerful and using too much of it can really give your foods a bitterish taste so use in moderation when preparing those dishes.

Cooking with rosemary herb

A few ideas when cooking with this herb.

Rosemary can be added to your

Soups
Steam foods
Rice
Bake foods
Broil foods

Thyme Tea Health Benefits

January 27, 2021July 11, 2018 by Norman

10 Benefits of drinking thyme tea

Cup of time tea-thyme-tea-health-benefits — *A cup of thyme tea*

I would love for us to take the time to have a closer look at thyme and its many benefits. I have been using this herb for many years and still am to this day. As a child, my parents loved cooking with thyme.

I watched on many occasions as my father who is now deceased moved about in the kitchen preparing those delicious meals and one of the herbs he always went for was thyme.

Thyme has such a pleasant aroma and I remembered there were times he would be cooking and this wonderful odor would fill our home. Many Bahamian dishes are prepared with this herb especially our famous peas n rice.

Tourists travel from near and far to enjoy our culture along with the beautiful weather and beaches, you guess right also our famous peas n rice that have touched so many hearts as they keep coming back for more.

How To Make A Plastic Bottle Garden

January 23, 2021July 9, 2018 by Norman

Taking Your Garden to the Next Level

Tips and tricks with using plastic bottles

Plants-planted-plastic-bottle-plastic bottle garden — *Plastic bottle garden-creating-extra-space*

It is so wonderful to know that we can take our gardens to the next level and save money at the same time. Who would have ever thought that just a few years back we would have all of these amazing ideas that work wonders in our gardens?

I believe the generation past would be surprised to see how far we have come in improving our gardens by using many household products that are found around our home. These new ideas are great because we get to save and reuse these plastic bottles instead of throwing them in the garbage, using them in creative ways in our gardens. By getting creative we are saving $$$$$$$ and I believe because of that this is smart gardening.

Fall Gardening Ideas

January 23, 2021July 8, 2018 by Norman

Great Ideas for Your Fall Garden

Rain -bow- color-garden-fall-gardening-ideas — *A rainbow flower garden*

It is so amazing how time flies and as the saying goes.” time waits on man” Just the other day we were preparing for the winter season ensuring that our gardens were taken care of as we entered the winter months.

Then came spring that painted our landscapes and gardens with an array of colors as our garden plants were in full bloom, also it was so wonderful to hear the birds singing and watching them as they flew so freely in the open sky. Blue skies, fluffy white clouds, butterflies, and bees going about their daily activities moving from plant to plant collecting pollen or taking a rest as all of nature seem to come alive during this time of the year.

When To Plant A Garden

January 23, 2021July 7, 2018 by Norman

Four Gardens that are Perfect for All Seasons

Colorful garden plants-when to plant a garden — *Flower Garden*

Constructing a garden can be rewarding both mentally and physically because installing a garden involves our minds and bodies. With our minds we envision what we want and then we put together a plan and with our bodies, the actual work is carried out so we are exercising our brainpower by putting it to work along with our bodies.

Another benefit of constructing a garden is reaping the rewards of our hard work, sitting back and enjoying our accomplishments whether it be a vegetable or herb garden or maybe a flower garden but whatever garden we choose we can reap the fruits of our labor.

Balcony Gardening Ideas

January 12, 2021July 6, 2018 by Norman

Gardening above the ground

Container Plants-balcony-garden-ideas — *Container plants*

Living above the ground can be pretty amazing as you get to enjoy that scenic view of the setting or the rising of the sun, you may be living in the city as you get to see all that is happening around you including the beautiful lights at nighttime or you may be living in the country with a perfect view of beautiful mountains, clear blue skies with white clouds as you enjoy the beauty of all that nature has to offer.

It is so wonderful to have this kind of experience and even though I am not living above the ground I have had the awesome experiences of many balcony views even gardening from way up high as I took in such amazing sights overlooking many beautiful landscapes, gardens including the ocean.

Hibiscus Medicinal Plant

February 5, 2021July 4, 2018 by Norman

Hibiscus Plant care

The hibiscus is a tropical plant that produces beautiful colorful flowers. These flowers come in an array of sizes and shapes depending on the species. Hibiscus is great to use as hedges and as a specimen plant which I call a show stopper, in other words, they can really stand out making an amazing impact. Here where I live in the Bahamas the hibiscus plant is used widely by many of the natives. I have worked with these plants on many garden projects and have created such beautiful designs.

Hibiscus Varieties

Oats Benefits

January 22, 2021July 3, 2018 by Norman

Naturally healing with oats proven facts that oats works

As a child, I never liked oats because to me just to look at cooked oats was a complete turn-off. It is so amazing as kids how we think, if it looks good then we figure it is good, if it smells good then we figure that it is good and if it tastes good then in like manner we think it is good

Oats-oats-benefits — *A bowl of oats with fruits*

but as an adult, I have learned over the years that this is not the case because what we hail as good simply because of how it looks along with how it smells and tastes doesn’t mean that it is good for us.

Many adults sad to say are just like kids when it comes to their health. I know of a few people who have bad eating habits and to make matters worse they don’t care, I remembered talking to some of my co-workers about their bad eating habits

Growing Goji Berries

January 28, 2021July 1, 2018 by Norman

A berry that brings natural healing

Learning about how to care for and the many health benefits of the goji berry

Goji berries-growing goji-berries — *Goji berry tree*

For some of you, this seems to be a funny or strange word to pronounce and for many, this may be a fruit that you are hearing of for the first time but what reports are saying about the goji berry is that this berry is known as a super berry because of how it is looked upon medically.

Goji berries are said to make a healthy juice that can really supercharge our bodies with its nutrients so for those of you who love smoothies adding some of these berries will work wonders.

What we will be looking at however is how to grow and care for your own homegrown goji berry shrub so you can have an abundance of these berries at your fingertips to make delicious smoothies and other healthy treats which I think is really cool.

Growing goji berries

Cold Frame Garden

October 26, 2022June 29, 2018 by Norman

Extending the Growing Season for Harvest

The fall and winter seasons are that time of year when leaves fall from many of the beautiful trees that grace our gardens and landscape as much work has to be done with the raking of leaves and other fall activities.

Then there is winter that follows close by with its many chills as the ground is matted with snow, birds fly south as bears go into their long-awaited rest and many flowering plants refuse to bloom. This is the time of the year when making a snowman, slay rides, hot chocolate, pulling out those boots, coats, scarf, gloves, and other delights that warm the heart.

Vintage Garden Ideas

January 23, 2021June 27, 2018 by Norman

Out with the New and in with the Old

Old blue car-vintage-garden-ideas — *An antique car with garden flowers*

That is correct it is no mistake, out with the new and in with the old, of cause this is a phrase that I have reversed. It is good to get away from the new at times and embrace the old because it brings such a different flavor that is eye-popping, yes I know that sounds strange or off but it is good going back to the old because the old bring that WOW in making such a difference and a big BANG.

Having a modern-day garden is great and does have heads turning but I believe in like manner that having a vintage garden can have that seam effect and in some cases stand out more than modern-day gardens. What is a vintage garden and how can I have a garden like this? I am so happy that you asked and this is what we will be discussing in this article.

Vintage garden ideas

Successfully Growing Cilantro

January 15, 2021June 25, 2018 by Norman

Tips on growing cilantro

Cilantro-how to grow cilantro — *Cilantro Herb*

The world of herbs is pretty amazing because of the many flavors they bring by exciting our taste buds. I have used herbs for years in many recipes that gave that WOW. Besides, their great taste herbs are filled with vitamins and benefit us in so many ways.

In this article, we will be looking at the world of cilantro and how to grow and care for them. Cilantro is known worldwide, these herbs are used in abundance in Asain and Mexican dishes.

Successfully Growing Cilantro

HOW TO KEEP SNAKES OUT OF YOUR GARDEN

January 20, 2021June 24, 2018 by Norman

Winning the war on garden snakes

Garter_Snake-how to keep snakes out of you garden — *A Gater Snake*

When it comes to snakes many people are hung up or have mixed feelings about these slithery creatures that are feared by so many. I have had many days of running into snakes and to be honest with you they were not pleasant experiences.

I remembered one time I stepped on one and man I began to peddle in the air just like those cartoon characters, well I might be stretching the truth a bit but stepping on that snake had my heart racing as my blood was rushing. I must admit though and I am not ashamed to say, that snake had me doing the 100-yard dash I would have put Michael Johnson and Usain Bolt to shame.

I guess I can now look back on that day and have a good laugh but going through that experience at the time was really not funny it was a really shocking life-changing experience.

The eco-system

How To Grow Chamomile

January 15, 2021June 22, 2018 by Norman

How to Grow and Care for Chamomile

Chamomile herb plant-Chamomile herb plant-chamomile herb — *Chamomile Herb*

Chamomile tea soothes the soul with every taste as it excites our taste buds. I was first introduced to this tea a few years ago by my wife since then I have heard reports from many about this wonder herb that calms the nerves putting us in such a relaxed state.

Chamomile herbs have so many benefits that it is mind-blowing which we will be discussing. Also, we will be taking a closer look at this herb that has gained worldwide recognition.

The journey of chamomile herb

Where does it all begin? I am so happy you asked. This wonder herb begins its journey In our home garden or gardens around the world where the growers of this herb know the power of chamomile.

Cottage Garden Ideas

July 3, 2021June 20, 2018 by Norman

Cottage Garden Design in 1800 hundred

Cottage garden-cottage garden ideas — *Cottage Garden*

English or cottage-style gardens are very unique which brings with it much flavor with its beauty and appeal that is filled with beautiful flowers giving off such a pleasant aroma. Cottage gardens can be fun and adventurous with their many garden features and narrow curvy paths or walkways made of pebbles, rocks, or concrete which gives not only that beautiful scenery but that sense of being in an old English setting.

History of cottage garden

Cottage gardens have a rich history, in fact, it is believed that these gardens arose in the old English days back in the 1800 hundreds when British peasants installed these gardens around their homes planting fruits, vegetables, herbs along with flowering plants, beehives, and livestock that provided food for their families.

Cherry Nutrition Facts

January 27, 2021June 18, 2018 by Norman

A SUPERFOOD THAT IS SO DELICIOUS

Cherries hanging from tree-Cherry Nutrition Facts — *Cherry tree*

As a child growing up there was a cherry tree next to our home where my family lived that served us well for many years as we harvest loads of cherries each summer. My brother who is older than I am liked climbing this tree and being the younger brother I always followed him.

We spent many summers feasting on cherries along with our friends from the neighborhood. Childhood memories oh so sweet. In this article, we will be looking at the benefits of cherries. There are many types of cherries that are grown in many parts of the world. Some of these include

How To Plant A Coconut Tree

January 15, 2021June 17, 2018 by Norman

Getting a taste of the tropics

Nassau beach- how to plant a coconut tree — *Beaches in Nassau*

Some things that come to mind when thinking of a coconut tree is the tropics where there are beautiful beaches, miles, and miles of white sand, blue skies, resting in peace and tranquility going for a swim in nice crystal clear waters being greeted by the marine life, sun tanning or resting in the shade enjoying a cool drink of sweet coconut water while listening as the waves gently clashes against the rocks or comes to the shoreline and then returns to the ocean. What a great way to sit back and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Shade Garden Plants

February 5, 2021June 13, 2018 by Norman

Plants that can Grow in the Shade

Shade Garden Plants-Shade plants — *Hosta Shade plant*

Shade gardening is another way to grow garden plants that are beautiful and healthy-looking. Over the years the approach of many gardeners was to install plants that required sunlight focusing only on areas that met this requirement rather than mixing it up to create interest.

Why should areas that have the most sunlight get all the excitement and action? Then there are some homeowners that have constant shade and may be wondering if there is hope for them installing a beautiful garden. The good news is there is hope for you to have the garden of your dreams. What we will be looking at is bringing balance to the landscape and garden through shade gardening Which can work wonders as we create a design that is pleasing to the eyes.

Root Growing Hormone

June 3, 2022June 1, 2018 by Norman

Giving your Plants a Jump Start

Giving your garden plants a jump start is a great way of giving them a head start as they place their energy into putting forth new roots. Plant roots are like what the heart is to humans, without our hearts pumping blood as the veins carry it throughout our bodies carrying nutrients and oxygen our health will deteriorate which will put us in a critical state.

The roots of plants are no different and are responsible for water and nutrient uptake to be carried throughout the plant’s system in order for plants to grow strong and healthy which is so important to a plant’s life. Another purpose of plant roots is to anchor plants to the ground stabilizing them. These roots are known as taproots. In fact, plants have 3 types of roots which are

January 13, 2021May 25, 2018 by Norman

Giving your Plants and Garden Lawn a Boost

Calculating fertilizer application

Calculator-Fertilizer Rates And Applications — *A calculator and a note pad*

Plants and garden lawns are somewhat just like humans because just as we need nutrients to grow strong and healthy in order to maintain good health so it is with plants and garden lawns. These vitamins or nutrients are the building blocks that are so important that it is a must that we give our garden plants these nutrients so they can have a good boost or perform at their best

But what we must be careful of however is the amount of fertilizers we apply because giving the wrong rates can really work against our plants and garden lawns causing server damage. Can you imagine having such beautiful garden plants or a lawn that is breathtaking and growing so healthy then applying an application of fertilizer in the wrong way only to see your garden plants or beautiful lawn wilt and die? This has been the mistake of many that paid dearly, this is not a good experience and it shouldn’t be yours either.

Feeding Soil Microbes

August 27, 2022May 23, 2018 by Norman

Energizing Your Garden Soil

Garden soil-Feeding soil microbes — *Garden Soil*

Soil or dirt as we know it is not dead as some people think but is very much alive with billions of microbes. What amazed me many years ago as I did a study on garden soil is that a teaspoon of garden soil contains billions of soil microbes, believe it or not, these soil microbes are responsible in part for the overall health of our garden plants.

Soil microbes have the awesome job of breaking down organic matter converting them to nutrients and then releasing these nutrients to our garden plants to be taken them up by their roots. Organic matter is anything that was once living. It could be leaves that fall from the trees onto the soil surface, the bodies of dead rodents, animals, or insects even dead trees, and plant roots are all considered to be organic matter. In other words, anything that was once living but is now dead is organic matter.

Basic Landscape Design Principles

January 18, 2021May 21, 2018 by Norman

Creating Your Garden Paradise

Red flowers-basic-landscape-design-principles — *Red Flowers*

So you have decided to take your landscape to the next level by making it a thing of beauty, hiring a landscape contractor can be pretty costly so you have decided to DIY it or Do It Yourself but don’t know where to start don’t despair following these simple principles will give you your garden paradise.

Working on the great outdoors can give such a wonderful feeling as you connect with nature giving nature a helping hand this has been my experience over the years which has paid off in so many ways. I have worked on both residential and commercial properties transforming and bringing much beauty to these areas giving the owners a sense of pride.

Basic landscape design principles

Potting Soil Vs Garden Soil

October 14, 2018May 18, 2018 by Norman

Growing successfully with soils

Compost soil-Potting soil vs Garden soil — *Compost Pile*

Does garden soil really matters or is it ok to believe that soil is soil, therefore, it doesn’t matter what we use it is a sure guarantee we will have garden success or should we approach this topic with an open mind thinking there might be a difference. When it comes to soil many people are not sure therefore it is crucial to have some knowledge of soil type to have success with gardening. There is no such thing as a green thumb but rather acquiring the knowledge that will pay off in the long run.

Many people have garden successfully without understanding that one of the key ingredients was the soil that made such a big difference, this was the experience that I had as a child when I created my first garden along with my parents and many neighbours that had gardens. Over the years, however, I have learned soil type and the importance of having knowledge in this area to reap a good harvest.

Insect Body Parts And Their Functions

July 15, 2022May 15, 2018 by Norman

The amazing world of insects

The insect world is so fascinating that it is mind-blowing. When you think of the many insects there are to humans it can leave you scratching your head. It is estimated that there are 10 quintillion insects on our planet now that’s a lot of insects that outnumber the human race by far and what is even more interesting is that many of these insects are so diverse.

There are some insects known as good bugs or beneficial insects that assist us in protecting our gardens and landscape. What that means is these insects feed on other insects that are known as the bad bugs which feed on and destroy our garden plants.

How To Grow Gooseberries

January 28, 2021May 13, 2018 by Norman

Nature’s pharmacy that promotes healing

Natural healing I believe is something that we all desire and what better way to heal naturally than by connecting with nature and giving nature a helping hand. We have the power not only to feed ourselves and the world but to grow plants that can promote our health which brings us to our next topic as we discuss how to grow, care for, and harvest gooseberries.

How to grow gooseberries

Gooseberries require a few hours of sunlight so when planting ensure that the location you choose provides you with about 6 hours of sunlight
The soil ph should be in the range of 6.2-6.5
Organic soil should be added to condition the soil which promote plants health

Growing Honeyberry Plants

January 28, 2021May 12, 2018 by Norman

Growing, caring for, and harvesting honeyberries

Growing- honeyberry-plant — *Honeyberry Tree*

Over the past several weeks we have looked at how to grow berry varieties and what so amazes me is the number of berries that can be grown in our home gardens that are filled with so many vitamins besides their healing benefits.

Honeyberries is next on the list as we take a look at how to grow these bushes successfully and reap a good harvest because who would want to invest in a project spending money and putting in all that effort without getting the results they are looking for.

How To Grow Figs

January 28, 2021May 8, 2018 by Norman

Tips to Growing Figs

Figs growing on tree-how to grow figs — *Fig Tree*

Figs are a superfood that has made its mark and has been around for some time, figs are filled with vitamins and have so many benefits. Including these trees in your garden is an added benefit.

In fact, figs have been around since ancient times. The bible dates figs back as far as thousands of years which means that the ancients knew about this fruit. Even Jesus made mention of this tree in the bible so the fig tree has survived from century to century and has come down to us.

How To Plant Blackberries

January 28, 2021May 6, 2018 by Norman

Planting, Growing, And Harvesting Blackberry Bushes

Blackberries_Growing blackberries — *Blackberries*

It is good to have a landscape with flowering plants but my belief is it is better to have edible plants or plants that produce edible fruits. It is such a great feeling to take a walk in your garden and to be able to eat the fruits of your labor.

Sometimes we spend so much time in our gardens laboring away to ensure that our plants are well taken care of so it is only fair to be able to reap the reward to share with family and friends.

Growing Blueberries In Pots

January 28, 2021May 5, 2018 by Norman

Growing Blueberries in Pots

A super fruit that is worth our attention is the blueberry plant which is loaded with vitamins and contains so many benefits that will have you feeling like a king.

This superfood is a favorite of so many households and is grown in many countries. How would you love to have this superfood growing in your garden?

I can think of many delicious recipes like pancakes and muffins that are a real treat with this fruit how about you what are your favorite treats that include blueberries?

How To Grow Radishes

August 3, 2022May 4, 2018 by Norman

Planting, growing, and harvesting radishes

Growing radishes-How to grow radishes — *Radishes*

Radishes are great to add to your home garden. These superfoods are filled with vitamins and have so many benefits that we will be looking at them a bit later. But how do we plant, grow and harvest radishes?

Some facts about radish

Radishes are hardy, cool-season vegetables that can produce crops from season to season. Radishes are easily grown, also the seeds of radishes can be planted in the spring and fall.

Garden Tools For The Beginners

January 18, 2021May 3, 2018 by Norman

Helping yourself by giving nature a helping hand

Garden tools-garden-tools-for-the-begginers — *Garden Tools*

So you have decided to spend some time on the great outdoors and connect with nature as you give nature a helping hand but still not sure how to become that weekend warrior.

Gardening can be such a rewarding experience and past time as you beautify your surroundings or by starting that vegetable, fruit, or herb garden. Whatever your desire be assured that you will have lots of fun and as an added bonus you will be getting that much-needed exercise to get your heart rate up as you become physical.

Where do I start?

Lawn Aeration

May 21, 2022April 28, 2018 by Norman

Giving your lawn a breath of fresh air

Beautiful maintained lawn with lines-lawn aerating — *Manicured Lawn*

Having a beautiful healthy well-kept lawn is pretty amazing. I have seen so many lawns over the years that were just eye-popping almost picture-perfect. Many years ago I was a foreman on a large estate that was surrounded by turf.

The owner really loved his grass and wanted it to be well maintained at all times. So I had the awesome responsibility of having my crew ensure that the lawn was well taken care of. We had our challenges at times with the weather along with many lawn insect pests problems

Outdoor Garden Furniture Design

January 26, 2021April 27, 2018 by Norman

Taking the inside outdoors

Outdoor garden furniture design — *Garden table and chairs*

“variety is the spice of life” as they say and to a certain degree, that is true. It is good to live on the edge sometimes or mix it up and just go for it. What is life without living dangerously, in a GOOD way that is?

Over the years I have seen so many garden designs with that added touch of flavor which brought that WOW simply because of pieces of garden furniture that were added.

Tree Transplanting Methods

January 26, 2021April 25, 2018 by Norman

Successful tips for transplanting trees

Cherry tree-tree-transplanting-methods — *Cherry tree*

To move or not to move is the question but then again this is not a question pre-say but something that many home gardeners wrestle with. There is nothing like having a nice healthy tree that is growing so well then one day you notice that your tree was installed in the wrong place.

Maybe it has become a security hazard or it may have outgrown that area or some other reason but whatever the reason you don’t want to touch that tree. I know what I will do I will prune it back.

Growing Asparagus

March 27, 2021April 22, 2018 by Norman

Living healthy with this superfood

Asparagus-growing asparagus — *Asparagus*

Living healthy should always be our goal because as we take care of our bodies we will reap the rewards of good health and longevity. Adding superfoods to our diet can promote good health but too often these superfoods are rejected for that which is pleasing to our taste buds which can cause much harm.

What better way to give our bodies what it needs by growing these superfoods in our home garden. Asparagus is a superfood that is worth taking a closer look at.

Soil Solarization

May 25, 2022April 21, 2018 by Norman

Elimination of weeds without weed killers

Eliminating weeds-soil-solarization — *Garden weeds*

For many gardeners, one of the greatest challenges that can really be a killer, and an eyesore is having to deal with the elimination of weeds. Weeds do not only take away from the beauty of a well-designed garden and landscape but weeds also present other problems which include.

Weeds compete

With plants for water
Robs the soil of nutrients
Is a hiding place for insect pests
Can promote disease
Compete with garden plants for sunlight
Weeds are considered invasive and will take over your garden
Causes a drop in crop yield
Compete for garden plant space
Weeds are a resting place for mosquitoes

Peas Growing Guide

January 21, 2021April 9, 2018 by Norman

Growing, Caring for, and Harvesting Peas

Pigeon peas-Peas growing guide — *Pigeon Peas*

Taking a trip down memory lane as we say I recall my childhood days of one day deciding to construct my very first home garden. I was so excited as I cleaned and prepared the planting site.

I still can remember lining the borders of the garden with stones, as I tried my best to make my little garden the perfect garden, my little hands with a shovel, rake, and other garden equipment working well into the evening very happy envisioning how wonderful everything would look.

Tips For Growing Beans

March 27, 2021April 6, 2018 by Norman

Simple Steps to Grow Beans

Jack and the Beanstalk

Tips- for- growing-beans-growing beans — *Red kidney beans*

One of my favorite fairy tale story as a child growing up was Jack and the Beanstalk. This fairy tale had a very adventurous storyline that always kept me on the edge of my seat as to what was about to happen next.

Most of us if not all of us know how the story ends with jack slaying the giant, both him and his mother getting the golden goose of the giant that lays the golden eggs and in the end becomes very rich.

Carambola Health Benefits

January 27, 2021April 2, 2018 by Norman

Promote Your Health with Carambola

My long, short, bittersweet story

Carambola-Carambola health benefits — *Carambola growing tree*

I have a story to tell about this fruit because I learned a valuable lesson through this experience. I first was introduced to this fruit many years ago by my then co-worker working on a private estate. In the back of this property, there was a huge carambola tree that had so many of these fruits which were just so amazing to see.

Health Benefits Of Tamarind

January 27, 2021April 2, 2018 by Norman

Boost Your Health with Tamarind

Tamarind-fruit-health benefits of tamarind — *Tamarinds*

I have so many fond memories of my childhood days of hanging out with friends in the neighborhood playing games, going swimming, bike riding, playing ball, etc…

But it is so amazing how the years have passed and even though I can’t turn back the hands of time I will always have those childhood memories to cherish as long as I live.

Honeydew Melon Health Benefits

January 27, 2021April 2, 2018 by Norman

Promoting Your Health with Honeydew Melon

Honeydew melon-Health benefits of honeydew melon — *Honeydew Melon*

Honeydew melon is a very delicious fruit. This fruit is not only sweet but the benefits are so great that they are worth being a part of our diet. I have eaten these melons over the years and have enjoyed their wonderful taste besides the health benefits they provide.

Honeydew melons have also made it on the list of superfoods and therefore I think it is worth taking a closer look at the vitamin content and the benefits these fruits contain. Honeydew melons can be eaten by themselves or added to fruit salads for a healthy snack.