Special: 4″ & 6″ Gardenia $8.50 & $16.50

reg. $12.99 & $24.99 | A beautifully fragrant indoor plant, just in time for Easter! With it’s deep green waxy leaves and beautiful rosebud foliage, these sizes are perfect for your holiday decor or or host gift. Pair with our pastel pottery for Spring! Available while supplies last through 4/11/24.

 

 

Save on Espoma Organic Lawn Program!

Buy all 4 bags and Save! 

With Mahoney’s Discount $149.50 | With Espoma’s Additional $20 Mail-in Rebate: $129.50

 

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We’ve made it easy to save on our favorite organic lawn care program! With more slow-release nitrogen than conventional programs, and loaded with beneficial microbes to stimulate root growth and improved soil structure, Espoma is our go-to for organics in lawn-care. Valid through 6/3/24

 

 

Save on Coop Poop Chicken Manure!

$12.50 reg. $19.99 (25lb bag)

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$18.50 reg. $24.99 (40lb bag)

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Coop Poop is 100% organic chicken manure and a great all-purpose fertilizer for many uses in the spring. It’s a great fertilizer for veggie gardens. Turn it into the soil now or as you plant. It’s also a great lawn fertilizer that’s very rich in nitrogen, phosphorous and potash. Plus, it’s rich in calcium and other micro nutrients. Can also be used on trees and shrubs. Valid while supplies last.

 

 

Growing Together: Mahoney’s and KidsGardening Planting the Seeds of Education and Wonder

In a world where technology often dominates children’s attention, fostering a connection to nature and instilling a love for learning can be transformative. Mahoney’s is proud to be a sponsor of the KidsGardening Garden Youth Grant Program, an initiative that aligns with our mission to create opportunities for kids to play, learn, and grow through gardening. Read on to explore the inspiring mission of KidsGardening and how Mahoney’s is contributing to happier, healthier kids and communities through this meaningful partnership.

 

 

KidsGardening’s Mission

At the heart of KidsGardening’s mission is a commitment to creating opportunities for children to play, learn, and grow through gardening. By engaging their natural curiosity and wonder, KidsGardening aims to support educators and families in providing children with the tools and resources they need to connect with the natural world. The organization offers grant funding, original educational resources, inspiration, and a supportive community to encourage more kids to learn through gardening.

 

The Impact on Kids and Communities

The belief that gardening improves kids’ lives, communities, and the planet is at the core of both Mahoney’s and KidsGardening. Gardening provides a unique avenue for every child to explore and care for the natural world, participate in hands-on learning, and gain a deeper understanding of where their food comes from. By fostering a love for gardening, KidsGardening and Mahoney’s contribute to the development of happier, healthier children who are connected to nature and equipped with valuable life skills.

 

 

Why Gardening Matters

Gardening is more than just planting seeds and watching them grow; it’s a transformative experience that goes beyond the soil. KidsGardening emphasizes the importance of every child experiencing the unique transformation that occurs when they spend time caring for a garden. Whether it’s an outdoor space, a classroom project, or a small cup on the kitchen windowsill, the act of gardening instills a sense of responsibility, curiosity, and a connection to the natural world.

 

KidsGardening’s Legacy

Since 1982, KidsGardening has been a premier support provider for youth garden programs nationwide. Through their dedication to creating opportunities for kids to play, learn, and grow, they have left an indelible mark on countless children’s lives. Mahoney’s is honored to be part of this legacy, contributing to the continued success of KidsGardening in empowering the next generation.  In 2021 alone, they reached 3.8 million children with their curriculum, lesson plans, and activities.

 

 

Mahoney’s sponsorship of the KidsGardening Garden Youth Grant Program is a testament to our shared commitment to nurturing the potential of every child through gardening. By supporting this impactful initiative, we contribute to a brighter future where children are not only connected to the natural world but also equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on their communities and the planet. Together, Mahoney’s and KidsGardening are cultivating wonder, one garden at a time.

 

Activity of the Month

In partnership with KidsGardening, we’re thrilled to bring the joy of gardening with kids to you!  Each month we’ll be sharing an engaging hands-on activity for families to do at home. Check out our first one below, a perfect indoor activity for those just itching for the gardening season to begin!

 

February: Grow Your Own Salad

 

Cascading Wonders: A String Symphony of Succulents

Succulents have taken the gardening world by storm, and among the wide variety of these unique plants, hanging succulents are gaining popularity for their cascading beauty. There’s nothing more fun than the tantalizing “string” series of cascading succulents and we’re thrilled to talk about some of our favorites: String of Bananas, String of Dolphins, String of Fish Hooks, and String of Pearls plants. These charming succulents not only add a touch of whimsy to your indoor space but are also relatively easy to care for, making them perfect for both seasoned plant enthusiasts and beginners alike.

String of Bananas (Senecio radicans):

Known for its distinctive trailing vines resembling strings of miniature bananas, the String of Bananas plant belongs to the Senecio genus. Native to South Africa, it’s a succulent that thrives in well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.

Care Tips:
– Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
– Place in a location with bright, indirect light.
– Propagate by snipping a healthy vine and planting it in soil.

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String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus)

A close relative of the String of Bananas, the String of Dolphins plant features leaves that resemble leaping dolphins. This succulent, also a member of the Senecio family, is a hybrid between Senecio articulatus and Senecio rowleyanus.

Care Tips:
– Provide well-draining soil and allow it to dry out between waterings.
– Place in bright, indirect light to maintain its distinctive leaf shape.
– Propagate by taking cuttings and allowing them to root before planting.

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String of Fish Hooks (Senecio radicans glauca)

Another charming succulent in the Senecio family, the String of Fish Hooks, is named for its unique hook-shaped leaves. Originating from South Africa, it’s a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in arid conditions.

Care Tips:
– Water sparingly, especially during the dormant winter months.
– Provide well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.
– Propagate by taking stem cuttings and allowing them to root.

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String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus):

Renowned for its spherical, bead-like leaves, the String of Pearls plant is a member of the Senecio family and hails from South Africa. Its trailing vines make it a perfect candidate for hanging baskets or as a cascading feature in container gardens.

Care Tips:
– Use a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly.
– Place in bright, indirect light, avoiding harsh, direct sunlight.
– Propagate by planting individual pearls or by snipping and planting stem cuttings.

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These lovely hanging strings are captivating succulents that bring a touch of the exotic into your living space. With their unique characteristics and relatively low-maintenance care requirements, these hanging succulents are a delightful addition to any plant collection. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your green journey, these charming succulents are sure to captivate and add a whimsical touch to your indoor or outdoor oasis. Happy planting!

 

Embracing Change: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map Gets an Update in 2023!

While we’re all bundled up for winter, it’s the perfect time to dive into a blooming topic that’s been making waves in the gardening community – the recent update to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map in 2023.  

The Zone Map Shuffle: A Quick Recap 

For those new to gardening, the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map helps gardeners understand which plants are most likely to thrive in a specific region based on the average annual minimum winter temperature. It’s like a GPS for your garden, guiding you toward plants that can weather the local climate.  The map has only been updated 5 other times since its first release in 1927, so this is a big deal! 

 

  

The first Plant Hardiness Zone Map by Dr. Alfred Rehder 1927                                           The recently updated 2023 Plant Hardiness Zone Map

 

Now, drumroll, please! The 2023 update brings some exciting news for us in Massachusetts and New England. With warmer winters on the horizon, the hardiness zones are on the move, creating opportunities and challenges that every plant enthusiast should be aware of.  Previously Massachusetts fell in between 5b-7b depending on where you were in the state, and while we still fall within those zones, much of the state has now moved into the warmer zones of 6a-7a. If you’re near our Winchester, Brighton, Concord, Tewksbury, or Chelmsford stores, you’re in zone 6b!  But if you frequent our Falmouth or Osterville stores, you’re probably in 7a. 

 

Curious about far away locales and their zones?  You can play around with the brand-new interactive USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map on their website here! 

Hello, New Green Friends! 

One of the perks of this shift is the chance to welcome a broader range of plants into our gardens. With milder winters, you can experiment with species that were previously a bit finicky in the colder weather.  Want a quick and easy way to see if the new plant of your dreams would work in your zone?  A quick search of the intended plant name and the keywords ‘growing zone’ or ‘hardiness zone’ should give you the answers you’re searching for (just bear in mind that the changes are new so some growers may still be catching up).

Imagine the vibrant hues of new flowers, the exotic foliage of different shrubs, and the sweet fragrance of novel blooms gracing your backyard. It’s a plant party, and you’re invited! 

 

But Wait, Let’s Be Mindful Gardeners 

As we embrace change, it’s crucial to keep in mind the delicate balance of our local ecosystems. While the update opens doors to new plant possibilities, let’s not forget our native flora. These plants are the backbone of our environment, providing food and shelter for local wildlife. As we introduce newcomers, let’s do so responsibly and avoid pushing out the tried-and-true natives that make our region unique. 

 

The Not-So-Welcome Guests: Invasive Pests and Plants 

Warmer winters might sound like a dream, but there’s a potential downside – invasive pests and plants gaining a stronger foothold. With milder temperatures, these unwelcome guests may survive and thrive when they would have otherwise been knocked back by frosty winters. Vigilance is key, folks. Keep an eye out for any signs of invasive trouble and act promptly to keep your garden and the surrounding environment in harmony. 

 

In Conclusion: A Blooming Future 

So, there you have it – the lowdown on the 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map update. Change is in the air, and our gardens are ready to blossom with newfound potential. Let’s embrace the opportunities, be mindful stewards of our environment, and continue to cultivate the beauty that makes Massachusetts and New England truly special. 

We’re here all winter at Mahoney’s and the chilly months are perfect for planning. Stop by and let’s dream about your spring garden together! Here’s to a year of growth, both in our gardens and in our knowledge. Happy gardening, and may your plants thrive in this ever-changing, ever-exciting world! 

 

Blooming Flowers for your Valentine

Cut flowers make a beautiful gift, but if  you’re looking for something that lasts longer, consider flowering houseplants. Cyclamen, orchids, gerber daisies, kalanchoe and more make a fantastic gift. Let us help you choose the best for your special someone!

Winter Birding: The Importance of Food

 

In Massachusetts, winter is a difficult time for birds. Days are often windy and cold; nights are long and even colder. Lush vegetation has withered or been consumed, and most insects have died or become dormant. During these extremely cold days, finding food can be especially difficult. They cannot forage as easily for food when snow accumulates or temperatures drop to freezing. Some birds remain in the same location year-round and benefit greatly from the extra food sources offered by backyard feeders. These birds require high calorie and oil rich foods to survive our winter.

During spring and summer, most songbirds eat insects and spiders, which are highly nutritious, abundant, and, for the most part, easily captured. During fall and winter, nonmigratory songbirds shift their diets to fruits and seeds to survive. This is the time of year when bird feeding enthusiasts roll out the welcome mat and set the table. The question is, what to serve to attract a diversity of birds? The answer is to provide a variety of food types.

In Massachusetts, we can expect to see the friendly Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, the spectacularly colored Northern Cardinal, all manner of Finch, Sparrows, Woodpeckers and Jays; for a comprehensive list, check out Mass Audubon’s website!

 

Which seed types should I provide?

Black-oil sunflower seeds attract the greatest number of species. These seeds have a high meat-to-shell ratio, they are nutritious and high in fat which is especially important in the winter months. Their small size and thin shells make them easy for small birds to handle and crack. Several studies, including the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Seed Preference Test, show that this high-energy food is the favorite of most birds that visit feeders. Striped sunflower seeds are popular with larger-beaked birds. These striped seeds are larger and have a thicker seed coat than black-oil sunflower.

Peanuts, and tree nuts like almonds, cashews, pecans and pistachios are enjoyed by Jays, Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Nuthatches, Carolina Wrens and Titmice. If you don’t want squirrels “going nuts” for these foods, try using a squirrel-resistant feeder.

Millet is a small round seed. It comes in white and red varieties; most birds prefer white proso millet over red. Nyjer®, or thistle seed, is a delicacy for small Finches such as Goldfinches, Siskins, and Redpolls. Offering the small-sized, premium-priced Nyjer seeds in special Nyjer feeders will provide more value for your money. These feeders come in either a sock form with a small mesh fabric, or a tube feeder with tiny ports that prevent the seeds from spilling out. Finches will pull the seeds individually through the mesh or ports to enjoy them.

Birds’ feeding habits vary based on weather patterns and season. The best thing to do is experiment with seed and your backyard feeders. Take notes and photos for a personal sense of well-being and a great activity to do with kids!

lyric-cardinal_detail lyric-supreme

We love Lyric Bird Seed because of their superior ingredients that ensure our New England birds have their essential nutrients to thrive- especially in the winter months. A superior seed means you will attract the widest variety of birds around! All birding products are available in our Winchester, Falmouth, Tewksbury and Concord stores.

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