Mixing and Storing Garden Compost
Posted in Greenhouse Gardening, Organic Gardening, Soil Cultivation on March 27th, 2011 by Dave Pinkney – Be the first to comment
Mixing and Storing Compost
The loam, with its pH standardized, has been sieved and sterilized. The peat from a compressed bale should be broken up by rubbing through a 9mm (in) sieve. Because it is usually very dry, the peat should be wetted, using a watering can or hosepipe, otherwise it may cause a temporary check to growth.
After the careful selection and preparation of Read more ...
Differences in the physical properties of 
Taking samples of growing media
It is essential that any samples sent for analysis are representative of the main bulk of the growing media. For a greenhouse border, several small samples should be taken with a trowel, auger or other instrument, from a uniform depth of around 13-15cm (5-6in). Bulked together the sample should weigh about 1kg(2lb).
Where batches of compost 
The changing fertilizer scene
The fertilizer scene has changed a great deal in recent years as gardeners have become more knowledgable on the vital issues surrounding plant nutrition. In addition there is increasing enthusiasm for organic growing methods. Most well stocked garden centres these days carry a reasonable range of products. It cannot be stressed too strongly, however, 
Basic plant processes
Any attempt to understand plant physiology must be prefaced by some discussion of the basic plant processes common to all green plants. While these will be grouped for convenience under separate headings, it should be appreciated that all processes are closely inter-related, each having a bearing on the other.
Respiration
Breathing is a function 
Seasonal Gardening Checklist
Garden Calendar
MID-WINTER
• Plan 
Lawns
Lawns are often overlooked, but the correct growing conditions, a balanced environment and nutrients supplied by recycled organic matter are as important to an organic lawn as to the rest of the garden.
The ideal site for a lawn is one that is sunny, level and well drained. Improve the 
Trees and hedges
Trees and hedges help to screen the garden and filter wind and noise. They can also be attractive features in their own right, and are excellent for wildlife. Try to find room for a hedge on at least one boundary, and plant a tree if you can, as part of a mixed border, on its own in a lawn or meadow or in a hedge.
In a small or medium-sized garden, choose 
Ornamental Gardening Ideas
Ornamental Borders
A border that contains a mixture of different types of plant — shrubs, herbaceous plants, bulbs and annuals — is usually the most practical type of border for a small garden. It is easy to create year-round interest and, at the same time, encourage wildlife.
Shrubs form the backbone of the border and provide winter interest: