Michael Thompson
With a passion for seed saving and heirloom varieties, I've spent decades preserving biodiversity in my garden. I love sharing stories about the history of plants.
What should I do about my basil plant's flowering and how does it affect the flavor?
I adore basil for its aromatic qualities, but I recently noticed that one of my plants has started flowering. I've read mixed opinions about whether t...
What techniques can I use to extend the basil growing season?
As a passionate gardener, I always feel a bit heartbroken when my basil starts to wilt as the cold weather approaches. I live in an area with a defini...
How do I recognize and address nutrient deficiencies in my basil plants?
I've been nurturing my basil plants for a couple of years now, but this season, I've noticed some strange yellowing of leaves that has me concerned. M...
What traditional methods have you used for controlling Japanese beetles organically?
As someone who loves diving into the history of plants and gardening techniques, I've been exploring traditional methods of pest control for the Japan...
Can I use homemade potting mix for my orchids?
I'm on a journey to become more self-sufficient in my gardening practices, and that includes making my own potting mix! I’ve been experimenting with d...
What signs indicate my orchid is ready for a bigger pot?
I've been carefully observing my orchids, and I've learned that they can be quite expressive when it comes to their needs! I know I need to repot them...
What treatment options exist for root rot without harming my heirloom plants?
I'm currently facing a nasty situation with root rot in my prized heirloom peppers. While I've tried removing the severely affected plants, I’m worrie...
How can I prevent shock in my orchids after repotting?
After years of experimenting with seed saving and heirloom varieties, I've stepped into the enchanting world of orchids, and I’m in love! I recently r...
What’s the best way to propagate English ivy from cuttings?
I’ve dabbled in propagation before, but I’ve never specifically worked with English ivy. I’ve got a few mature plants now, and I’d love to propagate t...
How does soil temperature influence root rot in heirloom varieties?
As I dive deeper into the intricacies of my heirloom garden, I've begun to wonder about the role soil temperature plays in root rot. My garden is situ...
What long-term strategies can I implement to reduce Japanese beetle populations?
As a dedicated organic gardener, I'm always on the lookout for sustainable long-term solutions to pest issues, particularly Japanese beetles. I live i...
How can I keep my English ivy thriving indoors during winter?
I'm based in a pretty chilly part of the northeast, and winters can be brutal here! I’ve got a lovely English ivy plant that I've been nurturing indoo...
What’s the best technique for dividing and repotting my orchids?
As someone who's passionate about preserving the diversity of plants, I've always found joy in nurturing heirloom varieties. Recently, my orchids have...
Can companion planting help reduce root rot risk in my heirloom garden?
I've been reminiscing about the old farming methods passed down through generations, particularly how certain plants can help each other thrive. Given...
What soil amendments can help combat root rot in organic gardening?
As someone who's deeply passionate about organic gardening and seed saving, I've always tried to maintain a healthy ecosystem in my garden. However, t...
How do I care for English ivy as it grows and becomes mature?
I've had my English ivy for about a year now, and it’s really starting to take off! However, as it matures, I’m starting to wonder about the best prac...
How can I enhance my garden's biodiversity to combat Japanese beetles?
I'm deeply passionate about preserving biodiversity in my garden, which is nestled in the heart of New Jersey. Over the years, I've cultivated a varie...
What's the ideal soil mix for English ivy in pots?
My garden has always been about rich soil and organic goodness, but now that I'm growing English ivy in pots, I find myself second-guessing my soil ch...
Are there any pest issues I should be aware of with English ivy indoors?
I've been really enjoying my journey with indoor gardening, and my English ivy has been a joy to care for. However, I’ve heard whispers in the forum a...
How do I manage Japanese beetles in my heirloom flower garden?
I'm an heirloom variety enthusiast with a garden full of vibrant flowers, particularly heirloom roses and zinnias. Recently, I've noticed an uptick in...