Hobby Haven

 Gardening is a journey of growth, not just for the plants but also for the gardener. The Online Gardening Academy™ has been a valuable resource for gardening enthusiasts of all levels, offering a wealth of knowledge and practical skills. Students from the Academy have experienced many 'aha' moments and valuable lessons that have transformed their approach to gardening. In this blog, we will share some of these insights and experiences from the students of the Online Gardening Academy™. Discovering the Importance of Soil Health One of the most common 'aha' moments for students was realizing the critical role of soil health in successful gardening. Many newcomers to gardening often focus on plants, neglecting the foundation that supports their growth. Students learned that healthy soil is the cornerstone of a thriving garden. Here are some key lessons about soil health: Soil Testing : Understanding the composition and pH of soil helps in selecting the right plants and a...

 Gardening is a beloved activity that brings joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment. However, it can also be physically demanding, requiring strength, flexibility, and endurance. To continue enjoying your time in the garden and prevent injuries, it's crucial to maintain your ultimate gardening tool: your body. Movement expert Katy Bowman, renowned for her work in biomechanics and natural movement, offers valuable insights and exercises to help gardeners stay fit, healthy, and pain-free. Understanding the Physical Demands of Gardening Gardening involves a variety of movements, such as bending, kneeling, digging, lifting, and reaching. These activities can strain your muscles, joints, and back if not done correctly. Prolonged repetitive motions and poor posture can lead to discomfort and injuries over time. Therefore, incorporating regular movement and exercises into your routine can significantly improve your gardening experience and overall well-being. Katy Bowman’s Approa...

 Gardening and maintaining a beautiful landscape can be a rewarding experience, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges, particularly when it comes to managing wildlife. Deer, rabbits, raccoons, and other nuisance wildlife can wreak havoc on your plants and property. Controlling these animals humanely and effectively requires a combination of strategies. This blog provides practical tips for managing deer and other nuisance wildlife in your garden and landscape. Understanding the Problem Wildlife intrusion can cause significant damage to gardens and landscapes. Deer are often the most problematic due to their size, appetite, and the range of plants they consume. Other common nuisance wildlife includes rabbits, raccoons, squirrels, and groundhogs. Understanding the behavior and habits of these animals is crucial to developing an effective control plan. Tips for Controlling Deer 1. Fencing Fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep deer out of your garden. Heig...

 Poison ivy is a plant that often conjures up images of itchy rashes and discomfort. Despite its notorious reputation, many people lack a comprehensive understanding of this plant and how to deal with it. This blog aims to provide essential information about poison ivy, including identification, prevention, treatment, and myths. Identification Identifying poison ivy is the first step in preventing its irritating effects. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a native plant found across North America. It can grow as a vine, shrub, or ground cover, making it adaptable to various environments. Here are key features to help you identify poison ivy: Leaves : Poison ivy is best known for its characteristic leaves, which grow in clusters of three. The adage "Leaves of three, let it be" is a helpful reminder. The leaves can vary in shape and size but are typically glossy and pointed. Color : The leaves are green in the summer, turning red or orange in the fall. New growth in the sp...

In the quest for a beautiful, sustainable garden, many homeowners and gardeners face the challenge of managing difficult spaces and reducing turf lawns. Turf lawns, while traditional and often visually appealing, can be resource-intensive and sometimes ill-suited to certain areas. Groundcovers offer an excellent alternative, providing practical and aesthetic benefits. This blog explores various groundcover solutions for challenging spaces and how they contribute to turf lawn reduction. The Case for Groundcovers Groundcovers are low-growing plants that spread to form a dense, carpet-like cover. They are ideal for areas where traditional grass lawns struggle or where maintenance is challenging. Here are some reasons why groundcovers are a smart choice: Low Maintenance : Once established, groundcovers require less maintenance compared to turf lawns. They reduce the need for mowing, fertilizing, and watering. Erosion Control : Groundcovers stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and ...