Plant Care

With the rise of smart gardening, monitoring your microgreens remotely has never been easier. Internet of Things (IoT) and Wi-Fi sensors are transforming the way we grow plants by enabling real-time monitoring and control. This technology allows gardeners to track environmental variables like moisture, temperature, and light intensity, ensuring that microgreens receive optimal conditions for … Read more

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can be a major threat to home gardens. These burrowing rodents have an insatiable appetite for garden plants, often causing significant damage to vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. Their ability to dig deep burrows and quickly strip plants of their leaves, stems, and roots makes them one of the most … Read more

Rolly pollies, also known as pill bugs or Armadillidiidae, are small, grayish bugs that roll into a ball when disturbed. While these creatures might look harmless, they can wreak havoc on your garden by feeding on young plants, roots, and decaying organic matter. If you’ve noticed that your plants are being damaged by these little … Read more

Deer are beautiful creatures, but when they wander into your garden, they can cause significant damage. From munching on your flowers to destroying vegetables, deer can quickly turn your well-maintained garden into a buffet. Fortunately, there are several methods to keep them away, ensuring that your plants remain safe. This article explores various techniques to … Read more

Woodchucks, also known as groundhogs, are infamous for causing damage in gardens. Their burrowing habits and fondness for fruits, vegetables, and flowers make them a common nuisance for gardeners. If you’re tired of watching woodchucks feast on your hard-earned plants, this article will guide you through effective ways to keep them out of your garden. … Read more

Chipmunks are small, cute creatures that may seem harmless, but when they invade your garden, they can cause significant damage. Known for their burrowing habits, chipmunks can destroy plants, dig up bulbs, and even steal vegetables. If you’re dealing with these garden invaders, this article provides effective, natural solutions to help you get rid of … Read more

If your garden vegetables are being damaged but you aren’t sure what’s causing it, two common culprits may be to blame—squirrels or blue jays. Both are known for visiting gardens in search of food, especially when fruits and vegetables are ripening. While these animals can appear charming, their behavior often results in chewed produce, missing … Read more

Growing microgreens is an increasingly popular hobby and a profitable venture for both hobbyists and commercial growers. However, one of the key factors to consider before diving into this endeavor is the cost of setting up a microgreen growing system. There are different types of setups that cater to different needs and budgets, and it’s … Read more

Squirrels are charming, but when they start raiding your garden, they can quickly become a nuisance. These clever creatures often dig up seeds, feast on fruits, and damage plants. If you’ve noticed squirrels causing havoc in your garden, you’re not alone. This guide from Start a Garden will walk you through various methods to get … Read more

Slugs are one of the most frustrating garden pests. They chew holes through leaves, flowers, fruits, and seedlings—leaving slimy trails behind. Whether you’re growing vegetables or flowers, a slug infestation can quickly destroy your hard work. This complete guide from Start a Garden explains how to get rid of slugs in your garden using safe, … Read more

Rabbits may look cute, but in the garden, they can quickly become destructive pests. They chew through tender shoots, nibble on vegetables, and dig into flower beds—often wiping out entire sections overnight. While it’s important to protect your plants, it’s equally essential to use humane, environmentally friendly methods. This guide offers safe, smart, and effective … Read more

Animals such as deer, rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons can wreak havoc on your garden, ruining your hard work and eating your plants. If you’re tired of battling with wildlife in your garden, this guide will provide you with actionable strategies to protect your plants and keep animals out effectively. From physical barriers to natural deterrents, … Read more

Dogs can be both delightful companions and persistent garden invaders. Whether it’s digging up your plants, trampling your flower beds, or leaving unwanted “gifts,” dogs can wreak havoc on your garden. If you’re tired of your furry friends causing trouble in your garden, this guide offers effective, humane strategies to keep dogs out and protect … Read more

Garden shears are one of the most essential tools in any gardener’s toolkit. Whether you’re trimming hedges, shaping shrubs, or cutting back perennials, sharp shears make the job quicker, easier, and cleaner. Over time, however, even the best shears become dull, making gardening tasks frustrating and less effective. This in-depth guide will walk you through … Read more

Garden snakes can be both helpful and problematic, depending on where you live and the types of snakes in your area. While many snakes are harmless and beneficial to your garden by controlling pests like rodents, others may pose a danger or simply cause unease. If you’re dealing with unwanted garden snakes, this guide provides … Read more

Tomatoes are among the most popular and rewarding crops for home gardeners. However, choosing the right spot in your garden to plant tomatoes is key to a healthy, productive harvest. Improper placement can lead to poor growth, disease, and fewer fruits. This complete guide explains where to plant tomatoes in your garden, why location matters, … Read more

Encountering a large, colorful spider in your garden can be startling, especially if it’s hanging in the center of a large web. Known as garden spiders, these backyard guests are common in many regions and often misunderstood. Their intimidating appearance and prominent webs lead many to wonder: are garden spiders poisonous? In this comprehensive guide, … Read more

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and moths play an essential role in our ecosystems. They help fertilize plants by transferring pollen from one flower to another, which is critical for producing fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. However, many pollinator species are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Starting a pollinator garden … Read more

Grasshoppers are a common sight in gardens and fields, particularly during late summer and early fall. With their powerful legs, long antennae, and leaf-chewing habits, these insects often catch a gardener’s attention. While some people view them as destructive pests, others wonder if they offer any ecological benefits. So, are grasshoppers good for your garden? … Read more

Slugs are one of the most debated creatures in home gardening. To many, they’re destructive pests that chew through lettuce, hostas, and young seedlings overnight. But others argue that slugs also have beneficial roles in composting and soil health. So, are slugs good for a garden, or are they just slimy nuisances? The answer depends … Read more

Container gardening is a practical solution for those with limited space, urban balconies, or indoor setups. One common question among beginners is whether they can simply scoop soil from their garden beds and use it in pots. After all, garden soil is free, accessible, and already supports plant life. However, using garden soil in pots … Read more

Watering is one of the most essential tasks in gardening, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Too much water can suffocate roots, while too little causes wilting and poor growth. So, how often should you water your garden? The answer depends on many factors—climate, soil type, plant species, and the season. There’s no … Read more

Freezing garden peas is one of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve your homegrown harvest. Whether you’re a new gardener or a seasoned grower, learning how to freeze peas properly means you can enjoy that sweet, crisp taste long after the growing season ends. In this guide from Start a Garden, we’ll show … Read more

Slugs can be a persistent problem in vegetable gardens, flower beds, and container setups. They thrive in moist environments, feed on tender leaves, and often strike at night, leaving behind slimy trails and damaged plants. While many gardeners reach for baits or barriers, a more sustainable and effective solution is to attract natural predators that … Read more

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) is a succulent plant species of the genus Aloe. It’s been used for thousands of years and is famous for its medicinal properties. Growing aloe vera can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner. In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of aloe vera … Read more

Cotton, a soft and fluffy staple fiber that grows in a protective capsule around the seeds of cotton plants, has been cultivated for thousands of years. Its importance in the textile industry cannot be overstated, and understanding how to grow cotton effectively is crucial for farmers and gardeners alike. In this article, we’ll explore the … Read more

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a pseudocereal crop native to the Andean region of South America. Despite being commonly referred to as a grain, quinoa is actually a seed from a plant related to spinach and beets. Its popularity has soared in recent years due to its exceptional nutritional profile and versatility in cooking. Nutritional Value … Read more

Growing Portobello mushrooms at home is both a rewarding and fascinating process. As someone with nine years of experience in the field, I’ve seen countless individuals successfully cultivate these delicious fungi in various settings, from indoor gardens to outdoor beds. In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about growing Portobello … Read more

Growing psychedelic mushrooms, specifically psilocybin mushrooms, is a practice that has gained increasing attention due to their potential therapeutic benefits and unique cultural significance. With nine years of experience in the field, I have observed a growing interest in home cultivation, driven by both personal exploration and a desire for self-sufficiency. This guide aims to … Read more

Morel mushrooms, with their distinctive honeycomb-like caps, are among the most sought-after edible fungi in the world. As a culinary delicacy and a fascinating subject of mycological study, morels have been a central focus of my research and cultivation efforts throughout my career. Growing morels presents unique challenges due to their complex lifecycle and specific … Read more