7 Must-Have Tools To Protect Your Garden In Every Season

We partnered with a home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Gardening can be a rewarding experience but it also takes a lot of patience and hard work. You also need tons of protective barriers in place. Protecting your garden means that your plants and crops have a fighting chance to grow. You’ll also improve the quality of your vegetation. A well-maintained garden produces ripe fruits and fresh veggies, which is a big deal if you attend several Farmer’s Markets throughout the year. What if you don’t know how to protect your plants? Fortunately, we’ve taken the liberty of listing 7 tools you can use to safeguard your garden. 

Mesh Tarps

To kick things off, we’re starting with Mesh Tarps on our list. Mesh Tarps typically keep pests such as insects, rabbits, and deer out of your flower bed. They also allow for airflow, offer plenty of shade, regulate the temperature of your soil, aid with the growth of your plants, and allow partial sunlight to seep through. Also, these tarps protect your garden from below-freezing temperatures and the occasional hail storm. 

There are also several Mesh Tarps out on the market for you to choose from. Each one has a different purpose for protecting your garden. For instance, a Desert Shade Mesh Tarp protects plants that require very little sunlight. On the other hand, a Green Mesh tarp will provide the necessary amount of sunlight and moderate shade for your plants. When it comes to knowing which Mesh Tarp to choose, think about your garden’s needs. What kind of plants are you growing, how much sunlight or water do they need? Asking yourself these questions will help you decide which Mesh Tarp style makes the most sense. 

Pest Netting

Another important tool to consider using for your garden protection is Pest Netting. Much like Mesh Tarps, these protective barriers are made from woven ploy that helps prevent pests from destroying your garden. The size of your pest netting is determined by what insect you wish to keep out of your garden and the type of additives added to aid with protection. In addition, they allow for proper airflow and moisture to seep into your flowerbed’s soil. There are several different types of nets out on the market. Hail and Frost Nets protect your garden from inclement weather conditions, while Butterfly Nets prevent caterpillars from feeding off your plant’s leaves. Some advanced pest nets are infused with aluminum strips for light reflection. 

There are a couple of ways to apply your Pest Netting. It can be applied over your garden through dirt, clips, or pins to enclose the flowerbed. Another way is draping the net over your raised garden bed and attaching it to the trellising.  

Row Covers

Similarly, Row Covers protect your gardens from cold temperatures, high winds, insects, and harmful sun rays. Specifically, the polypropylene fabric shields your plants from frost damage. However, it does allow partial sunlight to penetrate your flowers and crops. Typically, you’ll find two types of Row Covers on the market, which are Heavyweight and Lightweight coverings. 

The heavier fabric protects your plants from extreme temperatures and provides tons of moisture for them. Your strawberries, herbs, and perennials will stay insulated all winter long. Lighter covers are ideal for shielding your plants and crops from pests. You won’t have to worry about beetles, birds, or even chipmunks treating themselves to an all-you-can-eat buffet in your garden. 

It’s also important to use your Row Covers effectively to help your plants and crops flourish. In the springtime, drape your cover over small transplants and seedlings to help protect them as they grow. Make sure the edges of the cover are weighted down but leave just enough slack for your plants to develop. For pest control, bury the edges of your cover in the soil. If you’re growing large crops, build a mini hoop house or low tunnels. Row Covers can play a crucial role in your plant’s development. 

Ground Protection Mats

Ground Protection Mats also help to safeguard your garden and promote healthier plants. They protect your flowers and overall vegetation from heavy foot traffic, which could lead to soil compaction. Even some styles of lawn protection mats allow for partial sunlight to seep through and penetrate your garden. Ground Protection Mats also prevent the overgrowth of weeds. Cutting up your mat to fit over fragile areas of your garden can also protect your vegetation from any further damage. There are several different types of ground protection mats to choose from, depending on what you plan to use them for. Landscaping Mats prevent soil erosion, while tree removal mats help replant all new trees and shrubs. In any case, a lawn protection mat will ensure the safety of your plants, flowers, and crops. Choosing the right mat can be challenging. However, considering factors such as the type of terrain, your budget, and their level of durability can make the decision process simpler. You’ll have a healthy green oasis full of ripe fruits and fresh vegetables. 

Mulch

Next on our list comes Mulch, also known as the “Gardener's Friend.” Creating a protective barrier over your soil, mulch feeds your plants plenty of nutrients and limits compaction. It can be composed of anything from seaweed, manure, and plant debris. There are several benefits to using mulch, such as preventing weed growth, protecting plants from inclement weather conditions, preventing soil from splashing onto leaves, and giving your gardens an attractive appearance. 

Like Compost, there are two main types of mulch, which are organic and inorganic. Mainly, organic mulches are made up of wood chips or leaves. They often help control the temperature of the soil and provide plenty of essential nutrients. Some of the mulches that fall under this category are Shredded Leaves, Mown Grass, and Hazelnut Shells. Inorganic Mulches are made up of rock and gravel and are ideal for gardens that are overheating. Black plastic, silver plastic, and landscape fabric mulch help to retain moisture, keep out weeds, and control temperatures in your soil. 

There are a few tips you want to keep in mind when applying and replenishing the mulch for your garden. Some of them include adding your mulch 2 to 3 inches deep into your soil and reframing from building “mulch volcanoes” around your tree trunks.  Also, you’ll want to apply a fresh batch of mulch mid to late spring, which is considered Mulching Season. Any sooner than that will keep your soil colder and may freeze your plants. 

Also, turning over your mulch every season helps keep it nice and fresh. Remove some of the old mulch to avoid it getting too thick, matting, or clumping up. This will ensure your mulch stays healthy looking, thus aiding the growth of your plants. 

Garden Fencing

Installing fences around your garden and crop fields is also a great way to protect your vegetation. It shields your flowers and vegetables from animals, poor weather conditions, and even cross-contamination from your neighbor’s garden. There are several different types of fences on the market, such as Mesh, Bamboo, Vinyl, Wooden, and Wire Fencing. These fences do everything from providing privacy to resisting rot to adding a decorative element to your garden. 

When it comes to knowing which type of fencing makes the most sense for you, you’ll have to make a few considerations. Factor in the purpose of your fence, budget, and maintenance requirements. Even checking local regulations about height and installation restrictions for your garden can help you make the right decision. 

Of course, installing and maintaining your fencing is just as important. We have a few tips to keep in mind when managing a garden fence. Be sure to clear the area where you plan to install the fence, start implementing stakes, and make sure it stays lined up as you start the installation process. To maintain your fencing, just make sure to repair it for any damages, clean it regularly, and protect it against rust. At the end of the day, you want a working and functioning fence that’ll safeguard your greenery against any dangers. 

Hand Tools For Weeding & Pruning

There are also several hand tools needed to help maintain your garden. For instance, Pruning Shears help trim and shape your plants, remove diseased foliage, prevent overcrowding and help yield new growth of certain plants. Pruning Shears even pack some unique features that can make gardening easier for you. You might see examples like rotating handles for a comfortable feel and a sap groove for preventing your blades from sticking together. 

Another example of a tool often used to manage your garden is the hand trowel. This hand-held gardening tool is effective at removing weeds, loosening up compacted soil, dividing your plants from each other, and even getting rid of debris from in between your plants. Some hand trowels may come with some unique features like built-in weed extractors or seedling transplanters to help the blades on your hand trowel stay sharp. 

Other examples of hand-held gardening tools are a hand hoe, a hand weeder, and a hand dibber. 

Some tips to consider for properly using gardening tools are ensuring they’re nice and sharp, using an upright position to avoid straining your back and applying smooth, even pressure to achieve precise cutting. When you use hand tools for weeding and pruning, you’ll be adding another layer of protection to your garden. 

Conclusion 

These 7 must-have tools keep your garden looking pristine and in good shape all year round. Using everything from mulch, and pest netting to pruning tools will ensure your soil stays healthy. More importantly, your plants will remain protected from animals, invasive insects, extreme temperatures, and even your neighbors. If you want a thriving garden, then these are the tools you need on hand. 

Author Bio: Aja Dandridge writes for Mytee Products as a Content Writer. She’s written for various online publications and covered numerous topics, including gardening. 

Thriving in Isolation: Building a Resilient Homestead Community

We partnered with a home improvement company. for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

In the vast expanse of homesteading, the idea of self-dependence often conjures images of solitary cabins nestled in the wilderness. However, true self-sufficiency doesn't have to mean complete isolation. In fact, building a resilient homestead community can enhance the overall homesteading experience, providing support, shared knowledge, and a sense of security. This article delves into the importance of cultivating a supportive network while maintaining individual self-sufficiency.

Homesteading as a Community Endeavor

Homesteading communities are not about sacrificing personal autonomy but rather embracing the idea that cooperation amplifies self-sufficiency. While the self-reliant homesteader is capable of meeting many needs independently, the benefits of community living extend beyond mere convenience. A resilient homestead community can be a safety net during challenging times, sharing resources and skills to weather the literal and metaphorical storms that homesteaders inevitably face.

Forming Cooperative Alliances

One of the first steps toward building a resilient homestead community is establishing cooperative alliances with nearby homesteaders. This involves open communication and a willingness to share resources. Whether it's tools, surplus crops, or knowledge, a sense of reciprocity fosters a supportive environment. Regular community meetings can be organized to discuss common challenges, exchange ideas, and plan joint initiatives like bulk purchases of seeds or equipment.

Sharing Resources and Skills

In a homestead community, the concept of "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" takes on a tangible form. Each member can specialize in particular skills or cultivate specific crops, creating a network of interdependence. For example, one homesteader might excel in animal husbandry, while another has a green thumb for cultivating vegetables. By sharing these skills, the entire community benefits. This reduces individual workloads and ensures a diversified skill set within the community.

Community Gardening

An essential component of a homestead community is the practice of community gardening. Establishing a communal garden plot allows members to pool resources, labor, and expertise to cultivate a variety of crops. This shared space fosters a sense of unity and collaboration as community members work side by side to nurture the garden. It also ensures a diverse range of fresh produce for everyone, promoting a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. Communal gardening can create a surplus of healthy, sustainable foods for the homestead community. Use these natural, homegrown foods in healthy recipes and find ways to store produce like avocados properly.

Clothing Making in the Homestead Community

Beyond the realms of agriculture, a resilient homestead community can achieve greater self-sufficiency through shared skills like clothing making. Members can collectively learn and practice the art of making garments from raw materials, such as wool from community-raised sheep or cotton from shared crops. Workshops and skill-sharing sessions can be organized to teach sewing, knitting, and other textile crafts, reducing reliance on external sources for clothing. Creating dedicated crafting and sewing spaces can help make localized crafting more accessible for the homestead.

The Currency of Homesteading Communities

The art of bartering and trading is a time-tested practice that can thrive in a homestead community. This exchange system doesn't necessarily involve traditional currency but rather goods and services. Surplus vegetables can be traded for fresh eggs, or a skilled carpenter might exchange labor for a portion of a neighbor's harvest. This not only bolsters self-sufficiency but also fosters a sense of camaraderie as community members learn to rely on one another.

Emergency Preparedness

Homesteaders face the unpredictability of nature, from extreme weather events to unexpected crop failures. In times of crisis, a resilient homestead community can be a lifeline. Collective efforts can ensure that essential resources are distributed equitably, emergency plans are in place, and communal support is readily available. Unity in the face of adversity is a hallmark of a well-knit homestead community.

Balancing Independence and Interdependence

The key to a successful homestead community lies in striking the right balance between individual self-sufficiency and collective interdependence. While each homesteader maintains their autonomy, a shared commitment to the community's well-being strengthens the overall fabric. This balance fosters a sense of security, knowing that, even in the most remote locations, help is just a homestead away.

In the tapestry of homesteading, the thread of community weaves a resilient and vibrant pattern. Building a homestead community isn't about abandoning the principles of self-dependence; rather, it's an acknowledgment that strength lies in unity. Through cooperative alliances, shared resources, and a commitment to collective well-being, homesteaders can thrive in isolation and as an interconnected and resilient community. In this way, the journey of self-sufficiency becomes a shared adventure, where the success of one enhances the strength of all.

4 Indoor Garden Ideas You Should Start at Home

Are you feeling bored at home? Are you among the many people who are always tired of seeing the same things? Why not try something new, like gardening? Gardening can reduce anxiety, improve mental health, and increase productivity. 

You don’t need a spacious outdoor area to have a garden at home. Indoor gardening can provide all the benefits of outdoor gardening without making you leave your house. These are four indoor garden ideas you should start at home!

Terrarium Garden

Creating a terrarium garden is a great way to start indoor gardening. A terrarium garden can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. You can make them out of glass jars, vases, or bottles. Put a layer of soil, rocks, or sand, and then add your desired plants or herbs. Some of the best terrarium plants include succulents, ferns, and small cacti. Just grab some house plant food and watch your terrarium bloom!

Herb Garden

If you like fresh herbs in your kitchen, you should create an indoor herb garden. You can plant basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme, as these herbs are easy to grow, require less sunlight and space, and add a delightful fragrance to your home. If you want to grow herbs that require more sunlight, place them under grow lights. An herb garden can provide fresh herbs year-round, making your cooking healthier and more flavorful.

Vertical Garden

When you have a limited amount of space, making a vertical garden is the perfect solution. Vertical gardens can use various materials, such as pallets, planters, or wall-mounted systems. You can grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers in a vertical garden, which makes your options endless. Some of the best plants for a vertical garden include lettuce, kale, strawberries, and succulents.

Water Garden

Bring the beauty of water inside your home with a water garden. Water gardens can use small containers like bowls, glasses, or fish tanks and grow aquatic plants like lotuses, water lilies, or ferns. You can also add fish or snails to the water garden. Water gardens require regular water changes and maintenance, but they add a calming ambience to your home.

Indoor gardening can provide many benefits, not just for you but also for your home. Start small, and then you can add more plants as you get more comfortable. Indoor gardening can be a fun and rewarding hobby that can improve your overall well-being, and with these four indoor garden ideas, you can create an indoor oasis quickly.

7 Essential Elements for a Beautiful and Enchanting Garden Space

We partnered with an home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Welcome to the world of gardening and creating a beautiful outdoor space that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, there is no denying the magic and wonder that comes with cultivating your little oasis. From stunning flowers to delicious vegetables, a garden can enhance our lives in so many ways – mentally, physically, and emotionally.

But what makes a garden truly enchanting? In this blog post, we will dive into 7 essential elements that will help you transform your garden from ordinary to extraordinary. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to create a space where dreams bloom and nature thrives!

The importance of a well-maintained outdoor space for both aesthetic and financial value

Before we get into the key elements of a beautiful garden, let's first understand why having a well-maintained outdoor space is important. Not only does a gorgeous garden add to the overall aesthetic of your home, but it also adds significant financial value. According to a study by Clemson University, a well-landscaped yard can increase the value of a home by as much as 11%. This makes gardening not only a fulfilling hobby but also a smart investment.

Don't forget about lighting for nighttime charm

One often overlooked element of a beautiful garden is lighting. Many people focus solely on how their garden looks during the day, but what about at night? Adding some outdoor lighting can bring your garden to life after sunset and create a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.

Consider using string lights, lanterns, or even solar-powered LED lights to add a touch of magic to your garden space. With LED illuminated side and end tables, you'll also be able to enjoy a glass of wine or a good book in the garden long after the sun goes down. Also, don't forget to highlight specific areas of your garden with spotlights or uplighting to add depth and drama.

Choose the right plants for your climate and soil type

When it comes to gardening, choosing the right plants for your specific climate and soil type is crucial. Not all plants thrive in all environments, so it's essential to do some research or consult with a local garden center before making any purchases. Consider native plants as they are well-adapted to your climate and require less water and maintenance. Also, don't be afraid to mix and match different types of plants to create a visually appealing and diverse garden.

Add hardscapes for texture and visual interest

In addition to plants, incorporating hardscapes into your garden can add a whole new dimension of texture and visual interest. This includes elements such as pathways, patios, decks, water features, and seating areas. Not only do these structures enhance the overall look of your garden, but they also provide functional spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

Here's where outdoor saunas come into play. Outdoor saunas are an addition that enriches the value and functionality of your outdoor space and contributes to your health and well-being. They can be a luxurious addition to your garden, providing a place to relax and rejuvenate amidst the tranquillity of your outdoor space.

Incorporate water features for a soothing ambiance

The sound of running water can have a calming effect on our minds and bodies, making it an excellent addition to any garden. Whether it's a small fountain or a larger pond, the gentle flow of water can create a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere in your outdoor space. Plus, water features also attract birds and other wildlife, adding even more life to your garden.

Utilize vertical space with trellises or pergolas

Make use of vertical space in your garden by incorporating trellises or pergolas. These structures not only add visual interest but also provide support for climbing plants such as vines, roses, and clematis. This adds another layer to your garden and maximizes the use of limited space.

Maintain your garden regularly for long-lasting beauty

Last but not least, maintaining your garden regularly is essential for keeping it looking beautiful and enchanting. This includes things like watering, weeding, pruning, and fertilizing. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and vibrant for years to come. Also, don't be afraid to change things up and experiment with different plants or design elements. Gardening is an ever-evolving process, so have fun and let your creativity bloom!

In conclusion, creating an enchanting garden is more than just planting beautiful flowers or lush greenery. It's about crafting a space that harmonizes with your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and the local environment.

By prioritizing regular maintenance, incorporating elements like hardscapes and water features, utilizing vertical space, choosing the right plants for your environment, and ensuring appropriate lighting, you are setting the stage for a garden that's not only visually appealing but also boosts property value. Remember, a garden is a living, breathing artwork - let it reflect your personality and become your sanctuary. Happy gardening!