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Let’s Dig Deep into Gardening
Quick links to some great gardening information
Meet Sharon!
Hi! I am Sharon Wallish Murphy. I grew up in my family’s greenhouse at the heels of my father, Charlie, who mentored and helped me to develop my passion – sharing the love of growing. After 20 years of having my own greenhouse, I can say that my mission is to empower others to find joy in their gardening journey and together we can make a more beautiful and life giving world.
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11+ Practical Tips for Starting Plants from Seed
How do you start plants from seed? I am in awe of how plants unfold from seed to maturity. I like to say it’s magical, but it’s incredibly complex. How a plant starts its life impacts the following stages of growth, so let’s talk about how to give plants the best start possible. This blog will discuss 11 practical tips for starting plants from seed, so roll up your sleeves! Tip #1: Always Use Clean Materials for Seeding Even though plants grow in soil, working surfaces, tools, and growing mediums must be clean to control unwanted bacteria, fungus, and mold growth. Dirty equipment can pass on or encourage the growth of disease-causing organisms, resulting in competition for nutrients intended for the new seedlings or causing infections that compromise the plant’s development. Clean materials decrease this risk, so wash trays, pots, and anything else you will use in the seeding process with hot soapy water before seeding. Bleach is unnecessary in most circumstances. Tip #2: Use Seeding Mix Seeding mix is designed explicitly for germinating seeds. Seeding soil differs from regular soil as it has a finer texture to allow the microscopic root hairs to grow unobstructed. It also has added surfactants to break water surface tension, making water more accessible to the developing seeds. Always use fresh, clean seeding soil. Do not reuse seeding soil. I prefer to avoid seeding soils that have added fertilizer for a couple of reasons. First, fertilizer can burn tiny root fibres if it is
11+ Practical Tips for Starting Plants from Seed
How do you start plants from seed? I am in awe of how plants unfold from seed to maturity. I like to say it’s magical, but it’s incredibly complex. How a plant starts its life impacts the following stages of growth, so let’s talk about how to give plants the best start possible. This blog will discuss 11 practical tips for starting plants from seed, so roll up your sleeves! Tip #1: Always Use Clean Materials for Seeding Even though plants grow in soil, working surfaces, tools, and growing mediums must be clean to control unwanted bacteria, fungus, and mold growth. Dirty equipment can pass on or encourage the growth of disease-causing organisms, resulting in competition for nutrients intended for the new seedlings or causing infections that compromise the plant’s development. Clean materials decrease this risk, so wash trays, pots, and anything else you will use in the seeding process with hot soapy water before seeding. Bleach is unnecessary in most circumstances. Tip #2: Use Seeding Mix Seeding mix is designed explicitly for germinating seeds. Seeding soil differs from regular soil as it has a finer texture to allow the microscopic root hairs to grow unobstructed. It also has added surfactants to break water surface tension, making water more accessible to the developing seeds. Always use fresh, clean seeding soil. Do not reuse seeding soil. I prefer to avoid seeding soils that have added fertilizer for a couple of reasons. First, fertilizer can burn tiny root fibres if it is
Growing Food
Transplanting Vegetable Seedlings
Knowing What Vegetable Seedlings Do and Don’t Do Well as Transplants Is excitement building for the upcoming gardening opportunities brought by spring? My focus is
Home Garden Irrigation Options
Are you looking into home garden irrigation options? It can be difficult to know what watering method is best to help your garden thrive. Home
When to Start Seeds Indoors
Indoor Seeding Dates for Vegetables and Annual Flowers Growing a garden is a beautiful way to connect with nature and can be a great source
Growing Annuals
Home Garden Irrigation Options
Are you looking into home garden irrigation options? It can be difficult to know what watering method is best to help your garden thrive. Home
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Petunias
With their vibrant colours and delicate blooms, Petunias have long been a favourite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts. However, you may have questions about how to
When to Start Seeds Indoors
Indoor Seeding Dates for Vegetables and Annual Flowers Growing a garden is a beautiful way to connect with nature and can be a great source
Container Gardening
Home Garden Irrigation Options
Are you looking into home garden irrigation options? It can be difficult to know what watering method is best to help your garden thrive. Home
When to Start Seeds Indoors
Indoor Seeding Dates for Vegetables and Annual Flowers Growing a garden is a beautiful way to connect with nature and can be a great source
Seed Germination Testing Methods
How to Perform a Seed Germination Test and Analyze the Results Planting a garden, whether it’s flowers, vegetables, or both, is a rewarding experience, but
Perlite vs Vermiculite:Â What are the Differences?
When should you use Perlite vs Vermiculite? Perlite and Vermiculite are soil additives that have been used in the horticultural industry for years. If you’re
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Petunias
With their vibrant colours and delicate blooms, Petunias have long been a favourite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts. However, you may have questions about how to
How to Use Mulch in Planters and Hanging Baskets
Have you ever wondered why professional planters and hanging baskets always seem to be thriving, even if they’re not being watered and cared for daily
Meet Sharon
Sharon Wallish Murphy grew up in her family’s greenhouse at the heels of her father, Charlie, who mentored and helped her develop her passion – to share the love of growing. After 20 years of having her own greenhouse, her desire is to empower others to find joy in their gardening journey and together we can make a more beautiful and life giving world.
The Perfect Place For Plants
Children's Book
In 2019, Sharon pulled out her pen and wrote The Perfect Place for Plants.