Hobby Haven

Starting seeds can be one of the most rewarding aspects of gardening. Watching tiny seeds grow into vibrant plants is a joy that never gets old. However, seed starting also comes with a lot of questions, especially for beginners. From choosing the right seeds to transplanting seedlings, there are many steps to navigate. This comprehensive guide will answer your most pressing seed starting questions and help you achieve a thriving garden. Why Should I Start Seeds Indoors? Starting seeds indoors gives you a head start on the growing season, especially in regions with shorter growing periods. It allows you to grow a wider variety of plants, including those that may not be readily available as transplants at local nurseries. Additionally, starting seeds indoors helps you ensure that the plants you grow are healthy, strong, and ready to thrive once transplanted outside. What Supplies Do I Need to Start Seeds? To start seeds indoors, you’ll need a few essential supplies: Seed Starting Mix ...

 Owning a hobby greenhouse can be a delightful venture, offering a sanctuary where you can nurture plants year-round, regardless of the weather. Whether you are an experienced gardener looking to extend your growing season or a beginner eager to start, understanding the essentials of buying and owning a hobby greenhouse is crucial. In this blog, we'll explore the key considerations, from choosing the right greenhouse to maintaining it effectively. Choosing the Right Greenhouse Types of Greenhouses Cold Frame Greenhouses Best for : Extending the growing season by a few weeks. Description : Simple structures that trap solar heat to warm the soil and protect plants from frost. Pros : Affordable and easy to set up. Cons : Limited space and not suitable for year-round use. Hoop Houses Best for : Season extension and protecting plants from harsh weather. Description : Structures made from flexible pipes covered with plastic sheeting. Pros : Economical and relatively easy to construct. C...

 Cut flowers bring beauty and joy into our lives, but cultivating them can be an art form in itself. For those passionate about growing cut flowers, Lisa Mason Ziegler, a renowned cut flower farmer and educator, offers invaluable insights and guidance. Her expertise has helped countless gardeners turn their floral dreams into thriving realities. In this blog, we delve into the essentials of cut flower gardening, drawing on lessons from Ziegler's extensive experience. Getting Started with Cut Flowers Choosing the Right Flowers Selecting the appropriate flowers for cutting is crucial. Some flowers last longer in vases, have stronger stems, or bloom more prolifically. Popular choices include sunflowers, zinnias, snapdragons, cosmos, and dahlias. These flowers are not only beautiful but also hardy and productive. Understanding Your Climate Your local climate significantly influences the types of flowers you can grow. Ziegler emphasizes the importance of understanding your USDA Hardine...

 Greenhouse gardening opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to grow a diverse array of plants year-round in a controlled environment. My first year of managing a greenhouse has been an incredible journey, marked by both successes and challenges. In this blog, I’ll share the most valuable hacks and tips I've learned to help you make the most of your greenhouse experience. Choosing the Right Greenhouse Location is Key Ensure your greenhouse is placed where it receives maximum sunlight, ideally from the south or southeast. Avoid shaded areas and account for wind exposure; strong winds can impact temperature regulation and cause structural damage. Size and Structure Choose a greenhouse size that fits your gardening goals and space. A larger greenhouse offers more growing space but requires more maintenance. Materials matter: Polycarbonate panels are durable, offer good insulation, and are relatively affordable, making them a great choice for beginners. Optimizing Climate Con...

 In the world of sustainable agriculture, no-till farming has emerged as a revolutionary practice that aligns with ecological principles and offers numerous benefits for both farmers and the environment. No-till farming, also known as no-dig or zero-tillage farming, involves growing crops without disturbing the soil through traditional tillage methods. This approach preserves soil structure, enhances soil health, and supports biodiversity, making it an ideal choice for ecological market gardening. This blog explores the principles, benefits, and practical steps of no-till farming, offering insights and guidance for growers looking to adopt this sustainable practice. Understanding No-Till Farming No-till farming is rooted in the principle of minimal soil disturbance. Traditional tillage involves turning and breaking the soil to prepare it for planting, which can disrupt soil structure, deplete organic matter, and harm soil organisms. In contrast, no-till farming maintains the integ...