Month: February 2019

How to Grow Rhubarb

Growing rhubarb, when done properly, will ensure production for up to 15 years. It is a perennial, cool season plant that belongs to the vegetable family. It is quite winter hardy and is resistant to pest, disease, and drought. Rhubarb is an excellent source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Do not eat the roots and leaves of the…

How to Grow Asparagus

In growing asparagus, remember that it is a hardy perennial plant. It does not need to be replanted, and will return year after year. Given proper care, it will produce for you for about 15 to 20 years. Do the required preparations for proper asparagus plant care, and your efforts will be well rewarded. Selecting…

How to Grow Basil

Growing basil is not difficult, but it does need a suitable environment for nurturing. It likes well-drained soil (pH of 6.0 to 7.5). It also prefers six to eight hours of sunshine but can tolerate light shade. Basil can be grown either in the ground or in pots. To preserve the flavor and have better leaf growth, pinch off all the…

Pressure Canning 101: The Basics

If your purpose is to can low-acid foods, think pressure canning. Remember, a canning pressure cooker is not the same as a pressure cooker. Regular pressure cookers are not recommended for canning pressure cooking. Weighted Gauge vs. Counterweight The canning pressure cooker you purchase has a weighted gauge to indicate and regulate the pressure. Read…

How to Grow and Use Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Jack-in-the-Pulpit, also known as Indian turnip, or bog onion, grows from a corm, which is an underground plant stem. It grows up to about two feet, and has hooded flowers. The Jack refers to the spike that carries male and female flowers. Jack-in-the-Pulpit is sometimes mistaken for poison ivy prior to its flowers appearing, which…

How to Grow Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile)

The agapanthus bulbs, also known as the Lily of the Nile or African lilies, are herbaceous perennials. Butterflies, birds, and bees like them. Locate the agapanthus plants around pools, decks, and patio edges. The different varieties have varied shades of blue blooms. They make good flower arrangements. Hardiness Grow the agapanthus in containers if you live in zones 1-8,…