Monthly Archives: Jul 2024

Coriander (Cilantro) Companion Planting Tips and Benefits | Gardening Guide

Coriander, also known as Cilantro, is a versatile herb that thrives alongside various plants in well-drained soil. It attracts beneficial insects and repels pests while offering medicinal benefits. Its seeds are used in cooking and aromatherapy. It has a rich historical significance and is a valuable addition to any garden or diet for overall well-being.

Rewilding Your Garden for Wildlife: 5 Simple Ideas

To increase natural habitat areas in gardens, consider introducing a wildlife flora patch, bird bath, and feeding tray, and creating safe havens for mammals like hedgehogs. Additionally, build a dead hedge or bug hotel and grow a nettle patch to attract wildlife. These simple steps can help support and protect wildlife in your garden.

Optimizing Composting Process: Utilizing Stones, Twigs, and Bones for Enhanced Decay

The author practices a flexible approach to composting, including a wide range of materials in their New Zealand box system and open-aired pallets. This includes meats, stones, bones, and twigs, which they believe contribute to the breakdown process. The author also discusses decomposition times for different materials and their reuse in the garden. After the compost has gone through the hot composting stages, they remove unnecessary sticks, twigs, stones, and bones before starting the process again with a new batch of compost.

Effective Leaf Management: Raking vs. Natural Decomposition

In the UK, the debate on whether to rake or leave fallen leaves divides gardeners. Raking and bagging leaves is therapeutic and maintains garden aesthetics, while leaving them to decompose naturally benefits the soil and wildlife. Proper balance is crucial; excessive leaves can harm the lawn and invite diseases. Homeowners can consider mulching or creating dedicated leaf heaps.