A garden bench can also be an ideal spot for snacking on some fresh veggies or fruits. Sitting in the sun and taking in the fresh scents of flowers and vegetables is a great way to spend a summer morning. Gardening can also be enjoyed from a garden bench, letting the plants grow up towards you for a comfortable seat.
Plants need sunlight, water and love. Give them all of these things, and they will thrive. If you provide your plants with the right amount of sunlight, they will grow and produce new leaves. If you give them enough water, they will stay healthy and green. And if you love them enough, they will return the favor by providing you with beautiful flowers or plants.
Growing herbs is a great way to enjoy their flavorful, healthy properties without the hassle of having to harvest them yourself. Hardy annual herbs grow quickly and are easy to care for, so you can enjoy them year-round. Select a location with full sun or some afternoon shade. Earth your herb garden by adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, before planting. Choose a well-drained soil, and position plants evenly so they don't take up too much space. Water regularly, but don't water deeply. Fertilize sparingly with compost or a low-phosphorus fertilizer during the growing season. When harvesting herbs, snip off the Growing tips with long blades rather than cutting the stem at the ground level. This lessens damage to the plant and allows it to regenerate more easily.
Different seeds need different temperature and light to grow, find the one that work best for you. Some people like to grow their vegetables in warm climates with lots of sunlight, while others prefer a cooler, more shady climate. For example, peas need warm temperatures to germinatein the mid-to-high 80sbut should be cooled off after germination to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. A cold frame or greenhouse can provide the warmth and light that peas need, while a shady location will keep them cool. For carrots, direct sunlight is best, but they can also be grown in indirect light. To produce the most nutritious carrots, plant them 1 foot deep and directly seed them into soil in early April; they will reach maturity around late July or early August.
Herbs are plants that can be eaten fresh or used in cooking. A herb garden can provide food for garden pests and can also offer flavor and nutrients to meals. Some common herbs used in cooking are thyme, basil, rosemary, sage, and oregano. Herbs can also be used as natural pesticides and repellents. Fresh herbs can be added to salads, soups, sauces, main dishes, and side dishes. They can also be chopped and mixed into grains or pasta dishes. Dry herbs can be stored in an airtight jar or container and added to hot foods or cold drinks as a flavorful accent.
Plants need water in order to survive, but if they don't get a break from the sun, they will start to wilt. However, if you notice that your plants are wilting more than usual, it may be best to give them a break. Consider watering them less frequently or giving them an extended break from the sun.
Older plants can add charm and character to a garden, while giving young plants room to grow. Consider planting favorites alongside new surprises to honor the garden's history.