homestead

25 Christmas Gift Ideas for Gardeners

October 28, 2023 Leave a Comment

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! You know the song right? If not that’s ok. November and December hold so many wonderful memories for many, but between shopping and gift giving, it can get crazy and overwhelming. So let me help you with Christmas gift ideas for the gardener in your life! If you read till the end I have a bonus gift idea!

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission to fund my houseplant habit if you use these links to make a purchase. You will not be charged extra, and you’ll keep me in the garden. It’s a win for everyone, really.

Christmas Gift Ideas

Garden Boots

I don’t know one gardener who doesn’t love a good pair of boots to tromp around the garden in. Just be sure they are the right size and are comfy. A good pair of garden boots will make an excellent Christmas gift for the gardener in your life!

Potting Bench

This is a perfect gift for any gardener! Having a place dedicated to potting up or repotting is invaluable to a gardener, not to mention less back pain from bending over to re-pot a plant!

Hydroponic Gardening System

A Hydroponic Gardening System is soil less and so many gardeners love them! They are perfect to grow in year round but many use them in the off season. They make the perfect gift for every gardener! Use Code : THETHRIFTEDPLANTER for 24% off of the Transparent Smart Garden and 20% off all other Smart Gardens with code: THETHRIFTEDPLANTER1

Garden Tools

I don’t know one gardener who doesn’t love getting new tools. Not one… There are some garden tools that can last a long time with proper care and others that just fall apart in one season, so invest in good tools.

Garden Harvest Baskets

A great harvest basket can make the harvesting job so much easier. Things to look for are comfortable handles and a size that’s appropriate for your harvest.

Raised Garden Beds

Whether resting on the ground or elevated higher, raised garden beds are amazing. Not only can they be much easier on your back, but they are great if the gardener in your life is concerned about starting a bed in poor native soil. Garden beds can be easy to construct from scratch, but there are also plenty of easy-to-assemble kits that make set up a breeze.

Metal Raised Garden beds are proven to be long lasting and sustainable. Another great gift option for the gardener in your life!

Quirky Pots

What gardener wouldn’t love opening a Christmas gift of cool new pots?! There are so many great options for pots. My favorite types of pots are made from terra cotta or ceramic. Don’t forget to find some that have have drainage holes though if you’re not looking forward to some quality time with a power drill!

Watering Can

As a gardener you can never have too many watering cans. I keep one on each floor of the home and several in the garage to use in my garden.

Compost Bin

For your gardener who loves to compost! They will love to have a bin inside of their garden beds. These Compost bins are buried in your raised garden beds or buried in ground! They are AMAZING! Try out this grow bag composting bundle to start your gardener with all the essentials!

Soil Test

Every gardener needs to know what type of soil they have as it’s essential to know what’s lacking or in over abundance. While it may not be the flashiest gift, if you’ve caught clues the gardener in your life may have concerns about their soil, this could be much appreciated.

Garden Statues

Statues can add so much whimsy, wonder, and elegance. Picking the right one for the garden can elevate your space and give it a formal feel, while also putting some personal expression into the area.

Garden Arbor

One of my favorite structures to place in the garden. Arbors add structure and height to any area you place them. Add a blooming climbing plant and you’ve got yourself a beautiful eye-catching structure.

Garden Bench

A place to rest and view all of your hard work is something a gardener values. While it’s important to find a stye that matches the space and taste of the gift recipient, comfortability and durability in the elements are also important factors to consider.

Garden Gloves

Do I even need to explain this one? Most people don’t realize that gardening gloves have a bad habit of getting themselves lost, so gardeners always appreciate pairs to spare. Protecting your hands is very important when you’re dealing with plants and soils. Some plants have saps that can cause skin irritations.

Garden Hat

Gardening Hats are such a good gift for gardeners. They help to protect your scalp, face and shoulders from the harsh UV rays from the sun. Might as well throw in some sunblock too!

Garden Protection Sleeves

Garden sleeves protect your gardeners arms from scratched and UV rays! There are so many prickly plants out there and protecting your arms and hands are so important!

Garden Apron

Keep your gardeners clothes clean with garden aprons! There are so many colors to choose from and your gardener will appreciate a sturdy apron!

Garden Books

Gardening books are the light within the darkness of winter. We need inspiration over winter and books are a big help. While trying to pick a gift from a book store or website may be imposing, focus on specific topics that may interest someone you’re shopping for, and check out the reviews.

Seeds

If your gardener loves to start seeds, then this is a great gift! Seed starters love to collect seeds and keep a stockpile of seeds on hand. While you can frequently find seed packet displays at retail stores, head online if you want to find a more diverse selection.

Dormant plants

You can find so many plants that can ship dormant during the winter months, roses being one of my favorites.

Garden Augers

Augers are so useful in the garden. When used with the appropriate sized drill, you can take the hard work out of in-ground planting. Before you buy this for your gardener, make sure they have a power drill.

Garden Fountain

Garden fountains are so formal and elegant, and they make a great center piece in the garden. They are also good for birds and other critters who would like to get a drink during the hot summer.

Gift Cards

A Christmas gift idea many may resort to if you can’t find anything else. I don’t know one person who doesn’t like gift cards, especially if it’s to one of their favorite stores or greenhouses. If you cannot find the perfect gift, a gift card will suffice.

Greenhouse

I think that having a greenhouse is every gardeners dream. Heated greenhouses allow you to garden all year long, while a cold frame greenhouse can protect against frost and bitter winds. You can find a more permanent greenhouse structure or some that you can take down and move around. There’s a greenhouse for every budget. This is by far one of the best Christmas gift ideas for the gardener or budding gardener in your life!

Live Houseplants

There’s nothing better to occupy a gardeners time over winter than caring for houseplants! At our core we love and care about plants and houseplants are no different! Get your gardener some cool and quirky houseplants to keep them busy until the garden opens back up!

Bonus Gift Idea!

Ok so hear me out! This is not only for gardeners but for all dog lovers out there! Three Words! Pet Poop Composter! This is a better way to dispose of your pets waste! This system comes in two sizes and uses worms to break down the waste into usable compost for your garden!

Happy Holidays and Happy Gardening!

How to start Composting for beginners

October 3, 2023 3 Comments

Composting is a wonderful way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. It can sometimes seem complicated to get started but I promise it is easy to start composting and once you get started it becomes like riding a bike.

How to start composting for beginners

Choose a composting bin

There are many different types of composting bins available, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget. Some popular options include:

Open-air compost bins: These bins are easy to use and maintain, but they can attract pests and rodents.
Vermicompost bins: These bins use worms to break down organic matter. Vermicompost is a particularly good option for small spaces, as it produces a lot of finished compost in a relatively short amount of time.
Bokashi bins: These bins use a fermentation process to break down organic matter. Bokashi compost is not as nutrient-rich as traditional compost, but it can be used to enrich soil immediately.
Storage Container: This is a cheap and easy way to start small. Take an old storage bin and drill holes in the bottom and on the sides for air flow.

Gather your composting materials

You can compost a wide variety of organic materials, including:

Fruit and vegetable scraps: This includes peels, cores, and rinds.
Coffee grounds and tea leaves: These materials are high in nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth.
Yard trimmings: This includes grass clippings, leaves, and weeds.
Household paper: This includes shredded paper, paper towels, and napkins.
Eggshells: Eggshells are a good source of calcium, which is important for plant health.

Read 10 weird things you can add to your compost bin here!

Layer your compost materials

Once you have your composting bin and materials, you can start layering them. A good rule of thumb is to alternate between green materials (high in nitrogen) and brown materials (high in carbon).

Green materials: This includes fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, and yard trimmings.
Brown materials: This includes shredded paper, paper towels, napkins, and eggshells.

Start by adding a layer of brown materials to the bottom of your bin. Then, add a layer of green materials. Continue layering until your bin is full.

Water and turn your compost

Your compost needs to be moist, but not soggy. Add water as needed to keep the compost moist.

Once a week, turn your compost. This will help to aerate the compost and speed up the decomposition process.

Harvest your compost

Once your compost is finished, it will be dark brown and crumbly. You can then harvest it and use it to enrich your soil. You can use your compost in your garden beds and your potted plants.

Tips for beginners

Start small. You don’t need a huge composting bin to get started. Nor do you need to spend a lot of money
Don’t add meat, dairy, or oily foods to your compost. These materials can attract pests and rodents.
Avoid adding diseased plants or weeds to your compost.
If you live in a warm climate, your compost may be finished in as little as 6 months. If you live in a cold climate, it may take up to 2 years for your compost to be finished.

Composting is a great way to reduce your waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. It’s a great way to save money gardening. If you follow these tips you can get your own compost bin started!

Happy Gardening!

10 Weird things to add to your compost bin

October 3, 2023 1 Comment

Composting can seem like an incredibly difficult task to learn. Many compost guru’s can get a little too science-y and cause people to think composting is just too complicated. I’m here to tell you it’s not complicated and in fact I’ve got a fun list of 10 weird items you can add to your compost bin.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. I only recommend products that I truly believe in, and I always disclose my affiliate relationships transparently.

Weird items for your compost bin

Hair
Finger Nail Clippings
Clothes
Shoes (Fabric portion)
Bones
Household pet waste (Pets with vegetarian diet)
Dryer Lint
Coffee Grounds
Fire Place Ash or BBQ Grill Ash
Old Freezer Fruits and Veggies

Composting tips for beginners

Use a compost tumbler. Compost tumblers are a great option for people who live in small spaces or who don’t have a lot of time to tend to their compost.
Add worms to your compost bin. Worms can help to break down organic matter more quickly.
Use a compost accelerator. Compost accelerators are products that can help to speed up the composting process.
Turn your compost regularly. Turning your compost helps to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process.

Composting is really easy, even for beginners. You can start adding to your compost bin today and reap the rewards of nutrient-rich soil and a reduced environmental impact.

Happy Gardening!

How to save seeds from your garden

September 30, 2023 Leave a Comment

Seed saving is the process of collecting and storing seeds from plants so that they can be planted in the future. It is a centuries-old practice that has been used by farmers and gardeners to ensure a steady supply of food. Saving seeds should be done all season long but many people save seeds heavily in the fall as the garden season is starting to close.

There are many reasons to save seeds. It can be a way to save money on gardening supplies, reduce your reliance on commercial seed companies, and preserve heirloom varieties. It can also be a fun and rewarding hobby that can connect you to the natural world. It’s also a great activity to teach kids about how plants grow and where food comes from.

If you are interested in saving seeds, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to choose the right plants. Not all plants are created equal when it comes to saving seeds. Open-pollinated varieties are the best choice, as they will produce seeds that are true to the parent plant.

Learn how to grow Cucumbers from seed here!

Seed Saving Tips

Once you have chosen the right plants, you need to harvest the seeds when they are ripe. The best time to harvest seeds will vary depending on the plant. Some plants, such as beans and peas, will have dry pods when they are ripe. Other plants, such as tomatoes, will have fruits that are fully ripe.

You will not want to harvest seeds from plants that are diseased, had weak growth and low fruit production or suffered from heavy pest infestations or plants that you sprayed with chemicals. You want to collect seeds from strong healthy plants.

After the seeds are harvested, they need to be cleaned and dried. This can be done by rubbing them between your fingers or by winnowing them. Winnowing is the process of blowing away the chaff, or the loose material that surrounds the seeds. You do not want to clean seeds by getting them wet at any point.

Once the seeds are dry, they can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They will be good for planting for several years.

Saving seeds is a great way to connect with the natural world and to ensure a sustainable food supply. To pass on good genetics in your plants. It is a rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

How to save seeds:

Choose the right plants. Not all plants are created equal when it comes to saving seeds. Choose open-pollinated varieties rather than hybrids. Open-pollinated varieties will produce seeds that are true to the parent plant, while hybrids will not.
Harvest the seeds when they are ripe. The best time to harvest seeds will vary depending on the plant. Some plants, such as beans and peas, will have dry pods when they are ripe. Other plants, such as tomatoes, will have fruits that are fully ripe.
Clean the seeds. Once the seeds are harvested, they need to be cleaned. This can be done by rubbing them between your fingers or by winnowing them.
Dry the seeds. The seeds need to be dried completely before they can be stored. This can be done by spreading them out on a paper towel or a tray in a warm, dry place. Or allowing them to dry on the plant.

Quick tips for saving seeds:

Label the seeds with the name of the plant and the year they were harvested.
Do not save seeds from diseased plants.
Test the seeds before planting them to make sure they are viable.
Don’t save seeds from pest ridden plants

How to store seeds:

Choose the right container. The container should be airtight and moisture-proof. Mason jars, plastic food storage containers, and airtight bags are all good options.
Label the container. Label the container with the name of the plant, the variety, and the year the seeds were harvested.
Dry the seeds. Seeds need to be completely dry before they can be stored. Spread them out on a paper towel or a tray in a warm, dry place for a few days.
Store the seeds in a cool, dark place. The ideal temperature for storing seeds is 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit. A refrigerator or freezer is a good option.
Check the seeds periodically. Every year or two, check the seeds to make sure they are still viable. If they are not, discard them and replace them with new seeds.

Quick tips for storing garden seeds:

Avoid storing seeds in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Do not store seeds in humid environments.
Test the seeds before planting them to make sure they are viable.

You can add a packet of silica gel to the container with the seeds to help absorb moisture.
If you are storing seeds in the refrigerator, make sure to let them come to room temperature before opening the container to avoid condensation.
If you are storing seeds in the freezer, do not freeze them for more than a year.

Saving seeds is a great way to save money, reduce your reliance on commercial seed companies, and preserve heirloom varieties. It is also a fun and rewarding hobby that can connect you back to nature.

Happy Seed Saving!

How to Grow Syngonium Plants

September 29, 2023 Leave a Comment

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase we may receive a small commission.

Syngonium plants, also known as arrowhead vines, are popular houseplants because they are relatively easy to care for and come in a variety of colors and variegations.

They are known for their attractive heart-shaped leaves, which come in a variety of colors and patterns. Syngonium plants are relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginners.

Syngonium plants became increasingly popular in the United States in the mid-20th century. They were featured in popular magazines and home décor books, and they became a staple of many indoor plant collections.

Today, they are one of the most popular houseplants in the world. They are available at most garden centers and online retailers. Syngonium plants are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for, making them a good choice for people of all experience levels.

Growing Syngonium indoors can be tricky for some but after reading this you will learn the basics.

How to grow Syngonium Plants

Light: Syngonium plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. Plants with variegated leaves can tolerate a little bit brighter light. If you are lacking light you can add in grow lights.

Water: Water your syngonium plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Be careful not to overwater, wet roots can lead to root rot in plants.

Humidity: Syngonium plants prefer moderate to high humidity. You can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly, placing it on a pebble tray, or grouping it with other plants. The best way to provide consistent humidity is to add a humidifier in the room.

Fertilizer: Fertilize your syngonium plant during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize every two weeks or so.

Potting: Syngonium plants are relatively fast-growing plants, so they may need to be repotted every year or two. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and has drainage holes in the bottom. Use a well-draining potting mix.

A Syngonium You need to grow:

The Syngonium pink plant, also known as Syngonium podophyllum ‘Pink Splash’, is a popular houseplant that is known for its striking pink leaves. The leaves of the Syngonium pink plant are typically heart-shaped and have a variegated pattern of pink, green, and white.

Syngonium Propagation:

Syngonium plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. To propagate, simply cut a stem from the plant and place it in a jar of water. The stem should root within a few weeks. Once the roots are at least 2 inches long, you can plant the stem in a pot with well-draining potting mix.

Syngonium Plant Issues:

Syngonium plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is important to inspect your plant regularly for any signs of problems. Common pests that can affect Syngonium plants include mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Common diseases that can affect Syngonium plants include root rot and leaf spot.

Troubleshooting:

Yellow leaves: Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Make sure you are watering your plant correctly and that you are fertilizing it regularly.
Brown leaves: Brown leaves can be a sign of underwatering, low humidity, or sunburn. Make sure you are watering your plant correctly and that the humidity around your plant is high enough. Avoid placing your plant in direct sunlight.
Drooping leaves: Drooping leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or root rot. Check the moisture level of the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If the soil is soggy, the plant may have root rot. In this case, you will need to repot the plant and remove any dead or dying roots.

Syngonium are pretty easy to grow and come in so many gorgeous variations to choose from! Head to any store that sells plants and you will find so many to choose from!

Happy Gardening

Why you need to leave the leaves in your garden

September 26, 2023 Leave a Comment

There are many benefits to leaving leaves in your garden beds. While you may not like the look or idea of it at first but once your learn how important it is for your soil and environment you’ll change your mind.

This post may contain affiliate links. Should you make a purchase I may received a small commission to keep me gardening.

Why Leave the Leaves?:

Improved soil health: Leaves are a good source of organic matter, which helps to improve soil health in a number of ways. Organic matter helps to improve drainage, aeration, and water retention. It also provides a food source for beneficial soil microbes, which play an important role in plant health.
Weed suppression: A layer of leaves on top of your garden beds can help to suppress weeds. This is because leaves block out sunlight and make it difficult for weed seeds to germinate.
Moisture retention: Leaves help to retain moisture in the soil, which can be especially beneficial during hot, dry summers.
Winter protection: A layer of leaves can help to protect your plants from the cold winter weather. This is because leaves provide insulation and help to keep the soil temperature from dropping too low.
Wildlife habitat: Leaves provide a habitat for a variety of beneficial insects and other wildlife. These creatures help to control pests and pollinate your plants.

To get the most benefits from leaving leaves in your garden beds, it is important to spread them out evenly and to avoid letting them pile up too thickly. A layer of leaves that is 2-3 inches thick is ideal. If you have a lot of leaves, you can also compost them and use the resulting compost to amend your soil.

Money Saving Tip: Composting your leaves is a free way to get compost for your garden.

Helpful tips for leaving leaves in your garden beds:

If you have a lot of leaves, you can shred them before spreading them out in your garden beds. This will help them to break down more quickly.
If you have any diseased leaves, be sure to remove them before leaving them in your garden beds.
If you have a thick layer of leaves on your lawn, you can mow over them with a mulching mower to chop them up and spread them out evenly.
You can also rake leaves into your garden beds around trees and shrubs. This will help to protect the roots of your plants over the winter.

Adding leaves in your garden beds is a simple and effective way to improve soil health, suppress weeds, retain moisture, protect your plants from the winter cold, and provide habitat for beneficial wildlife.

Here’s how adding leaves to your garden beds can improve your soil:

Adds organic matter: Leaves are a good source of organic matter, which is essential for healthy soil. Organic matter helps to improve drainage, aeration, and water retention. It also provides a food source for beneficial soil microbes, which play an important role in plant health.
Improves soil structure: As leaves decompose, they help to create a more crumbly soil structure. This is because organic matter helps to bind soil particles together, preventing the soil from becoming too compacted or too loose.
Increases nutrient levels: Leaves contain a variety of nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. As leaves decompose, these nutrients are released into the soil, making them available to plants.
Suppresses weeds: A layer of leaves on top of your garden bed can help to suppress weeds. This is because leaves block out sunlight and make it difficult for weed seeds to germinate. In spring it is a good idea to rake the leaves around to allow more air flow.

Leaving leaves in your garden bed is a simple and effective way to improve soil health and create a more fertile environment for your plants. When you take care of your soil it will take care of you with healthy, happy, productive plants.