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September 11, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library, Uncategorized

Mulch: Your Garden’s Best Friend for Winter Protection

Mulch is your garden’s best friend in winter. A thick layer of mulch (about 2-4 inches) will help insulate your plants’ roots and protect them from the harsh cold. This not only keeps the soil temperature more stable but also enriches it with nutrients for the coming spring.

As a New England garden center, we know how crucial it is to prepare your garden for the colder months. Here are compelling reasons why you should consider mulching now to ensure a thriving garden next year.

 

1. Spread Mulch in Late Summer or Early Fall

Applying mulch before the leaves fall provides added insulation against early fall freezes. This timing ensures your plants are protected right when they need it most.

  • Extra Water Retention: Mulching during this period helps retain moisture in the soil, benefiting plants stressed by summer heat.
  • Protection Against Fall Freezes: An early layer of mulch shields your plants from sudden temperature drops, reducing the risk of damage.

 

Person spreading mulch around garden plants with a rake to protect them for the winter.

 

2. Leaf Cleanup and Composting Benefits

By mulching before major leaf drop, you create an initial layer of soil protection beneath the leaves.

  • Jumpstart Compost Production: Early leaf cleanup in spring accelerates composting if that’s your goal. Mulched leaves decompose faster, enriching your soil.
  • Support Overwintering Pollinators: A mulch layer provides habitat for beneficial insects, promoting a healthier garden ecosystem.

 

3. Prevent Frost Heaves on Perennials and New Plants

A protective mulch layer helps prevent frost heaves, which can damage perennials and newly planted material by pushing them out of the ground during freeze-thaw cycles.

Stack of Hemlock mulch bags next to a potted plant at a garden center.

 

4. Retain Soil Moisture for Evergreens

Adding mulch to evergreen shrubs and trees keeps moisture in the soil during cold and dry winters, ensuring they remain healthy throughout the season.

5. Proper Mulching Techniques

  • Early Fall Mulching: When mulching in early fall, place the mulch close to but not on top of the plant’s crown. This prevents smothering the plant while still providing protection.
  • Late Fall Adjustment: Remember to revisit your garden around Thanksgiving to move the mulch closer to the plants for extra insulation as winter approaches.

Take Action Now for a Vibrant Spring Garden

Mulching is a simple step that pays off immensely when the warmer seasons return. It protects your plants, improves soil quality, and sets the stage for a beautiful, thriving garden.

Visit us at any of our Mahoney’s Garden Center locations to stock up on high-quality mulch. Our team is here to help you choose the right type for your garden’s needs. Or shop online here.

 

Image of fall
September 11, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library

Fall Planting: The Secret to a Thriving Spring Garden

As the temperatures cool and the leaves start to change, many gardeners think it’s time to wind down, but fall is actually one of the best seasons to plant and prepare your garden for the future. Whether you’re thinking about trees, shrubs, perennials, herbs, veggies,  or even annuals, the benefits of fall planting are numerous and can set your garden up for success come spring. Let’s dig into why autumn should be your new favorite planting season!

 

 

  1. Cooler Temperatures Make for Happy Plants (and Gardeners!)

One of the biggest perks of fall planting is the cooler weather. Unlike the scorching heat of summer, fall offers mild temperatures, which are easier on both new plants and gardeners. Plants aren’t as stressed by the heat and don’t need as much water to thrive. You’ll also find gardening a lot more enjoyable when you’re not battling sweltering sun and humidity! 

 

  1. Perfect Time for Root Growth

During fall, plants focus their energy on growing strong, healthy roots instead of producing flowers and foliage. This is especially true for trees, shrubs, and perennials. The cooler soil encourages root growth, allowing plants to establish themselves before the ground freezes. Come spring, they’ll be ready to burst into life with a solid root system to support them! 

 

  1. Fewer Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases tend to be less of a problem in the fall. With cooler temperatures and shorter days, many bugs go dormant, and some plant diseases also slow down. This means less need for pest control, giving your new plants a healthier start. 

 

  1. Better Selection of Trees and Shrubs

Many garden centers, including ours, offer a fantastic selection of trees and shrubs in the fall. The cooler weather also means less transplant shock when planting larger specimens. Plus, fall-planted trees and shrubs will have a head start over those planted in the spring, giving them extra time to settle in.   

Take a look at our video on how to plant trees and shrubs to make sure it starts off the season on the right foot!  Or download our planting guide here. 

 

large selection of trees and shrubs in New England garden center

 

  1. Plant Perennials for Year-Round Enjoyment

Fall is a great time to plant perennials, those hard-working plants that come back year after year. By planting in autumn, perennials like hostas, daylilies, and sedum can focus on establishing their roots. They’ll be stronger and more vigorous by spring, ready to deliver beautiful blooms and lush foliage.  First time planting perennials and want a few tips?  Check out our handy guide here. 

 

  1. Extend Your Harvest with Fall Veggies and Herbs

Don’t forget about fall veggies! Cool-weather crops like lettuce, kale, spinach, and broccoli thrive in the crisp fall air. You can also plant herbs like parsley and cilantro, which often struggle with summer’s heat but do great in the cooler months. With the right planning, you could be harvesting fresh greens well into autumn. 

 

  1. Annuals: Not Just for Summer

Yes, you can still plant annuals in the fall! Cool-season annuals like pansies, violas, celosia and ornamental kale provide color when many summer flowers have faded. They’re perfect for brightening up your fall landscape and can even tolerate light frosts. 

 

  1. Less Competition for Water

One of the advantages of planting in fall is the decreased demand for water. With cooler temperatures and more consistent rainfall, you’ll need to water less than in the dry, hot summer months. This helps new plants settle in more comfortably without as much effort on your part.  But if you still need some guidance, check out our blog on how to water new plants here! 

 

  1. More Time to Relax in Spring

By planting in the fall, you can get a head start on your spring garden. Come springtime, you’ll already have an established garden to enjoy rather than having to start everything from scratch. This gives you more time to relax and appreciate your garden when it’s at its peak. 

 

  1. Great Deals and Selection

As fall approaches, we start our yellow tag sale, a 33% off sale on items still available from our Spring shipments.  Please feel free to ask an employee or give us a call on specifics! This is a great opportunity to pick up high-quality trees, shrubs, and perennials at a lower cost. You’ll also find a wider selection of fall-blooming plants like mums, asters, and ornamental grasses. 

 

 

Fall planting offers so many advantages, from better root development to easier maintenance and less stress on your plants. So, whether you’re looking to add a new tree to your landscape, refresh your perennial beds, or extend your vegetable harvest, don’t wait until spring—fall is the perfect time to get planting!

 

Ready to dig in?  Visit us at any of our 7 locations, and let our experts help you select the best plants for your fall garden, or shop our online store.  Happy planting! 

 

Assorted spring and summer trees and shrubs
September 6, 2024 In Feature, featured, Specials

33% off select trees + shrubs

All spring and summer trees and shrubs are 33% off! Whether you’re refreshing your landscape or planning ahead, fall is the ideal moment to plant for a vibrant garden. Excludes all Purple tagged items. While Supplies Last.

 

Image of snake plant in a classroom
August 28, 2024 In featured

Green Classrooms, Happy Students: The Top Five Reasons to Add Plants

 

Green Classrooms, Happy Students: The Top Five Reasons to Add Plants 

Bringing plants into the classroom isn’t just about adding a pop of green to the space—it’s about enhancing the learning environment in ways that benefit both students and teachers. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or simply curious, here are five compelling reasons why classroom plants are a must-have! 

 

  1. Improved Air Quality

Plants are natural air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide and release fresh oxygen, making the air in the classroom cleaner and healthier to breathe. Some plants can even filter out harmful toxins from the air, reducing the chances of headaches, allergies, and respiratory issues. Breathing in cleaner air helps everyone stay more alert and focused, which is super important during those long school days! 

 

  1. Boosted Concentration and Productivity

Ever notice how it’s easier to focus when you’re surrounded by nature? Well, the same goes for plants in the classroom! Studies have shown that having plants around can improve concentration and memory. The calming presence of greenery helps reduce stress and mental fatigue, making it easier for students to stay on task and absorb information. This means fewer distractions and more productive learning sessions. 

 

Collection of foliage houseplants

 

 

  1. Enhanced Mood and Well-Being

The presence of plants has a soothing effect, reducing stress and anxiety levels. This is particularly beneficial in a classroom setting where students may feel pressure from exams, assignments, or social interactions. A few well-placed plants can create a peaceful atmosphere, helping students feel more relaxed and at ease, which is essential for emotional well-being. 

 

  1. Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Plants are perfect for sparking curiosity and encouraging hands-on learning. Whether it’s alesson on biology, environmental science, or even art, plants provide endless teaching opportunities. Students can learn about the life cycle of plants, photosynthesis, and the importance of taking care of living things. Plus, getting involved in the care and maintenance of classroom plants gives students a sense of responsibility and accomplishment. 

 

 

Image of a begonia being held

  1. Encourages Environmental Stewardship

Having plants in the classroom is a great way to introduce students to the concept of environmental stewardship. By caring for plants, students learn the importance of nurturing and protecting living things, which can foster a deeper respect for nature and the environment. This hands-on experience can inspire students to think about their impact on the world around them and encourage eco-friendly habits, such as recycling, conserving water, and appreciating the role plants play in our ecosystem. Over time, this can cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who are more likely to make sustainable choices in the future. 

 

Adding plants to your classroom is a simple yet powerful way to create a more vibrant, healthy, and productive learning environment. Whether you choose a low-maintenance succulent or a leafy green fern, the benefits of classroom plants are undeniable.  So, why not bring a little green into your classroom and watch your students—and your plants—flourish! 

 

 Looking for ways to bring plants into your classroom?  Check out KidsGardening, a program Mahoney’s proudly sponsors. 

 

 

Image of Pickling in jars
August 21, 2024 In Feature, featured

How to Make Easy Homemade Refrigerator Pickles: A Fun and Delicious DIY Project

Ready to try your hand at making these easy refrigerator pickles? Download the printable recipe and enjoy the delicious results of your DIY kitchen project!

Making homemade pickles is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy your garden’s bounty or your favorite purchased vegetables all year round. With our easy-to-follow recipe for refrigerator pickles, you can create a variety of tangy, crunchy treats that are perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches, or sharing with friends and family. Best of all, these pickles don’t require any complicated canning process and stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks!

This activity is brought to you in partnership with KidsGardening, an organization dedicated to encouraging children and families to engage with gardening through fun, educational projects. Together, we hope to inspire a love for fresh, homemade foods and the joys of gardening.

Why Make Your Own Refrigerator Pickles?

Refrigerator pickles are a fantastic way to preserve vegetables quickly and easily. Unlike traditional canning, which can be time-consuming and requires special equipment, refrigerator pickles are straightforward to make and don’t require any special skills. Whether you’re using homegrown veggies or those from your local farmer’s market, this recipe lets you enjoy the fresh flavors of summer all year long.

Get Creative with Your Pickles

One of the best parts about making your own refrigerator pickles is that you can get creative with flavors. Try adding garlic, fresh herbs like dill, or even a little honey for a sweet twist. Each batch can be a new culinary experiment, allowing you to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • 3 cups apple cider vinegar (or distilled white vinegar)
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (regular iodized salt works too, though it might slightly discolor the pickles)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (or more) pickling spices (You can buy a pre-made mix or make your own with spices like allspice, dill seed, mustard seed, and more)
  • 3 to 4 pint-sized canning jars with tight-fitting lids
  • Non-reactive saucepan (stainless steel or glass; avoid aluminum)
  • Vegetables: Almost any vegetable can be pickled! Try cooked beets, carrots, cauliflower, green beans, radishes, cucumbers, onions, or peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your refrigerator pickles:

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Start by washing your vegetables thoroughly. Then, cut them into slices, chunks, or spears, making sure they’ll fit comfortably into your canning jars.
  2. Fill the Jars: Place the cut vegetables into your clean, sturdy jars. Since you’ll be pouring hot liquid over them, you need jars that can handle the heat without breaking.
  3. Make the Brine: In a large non-reactive saucepan, combine the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for a minute or two, stirring to ensure the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Add your pickling spices and simmer for a few more minutes before turning off the heat.
  4. Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring they are completely submerged.
  5. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the jars cool to room temperature. Once cool, cover them and place them in the refrigerator for a few days to allow the flavors to develop.

 

After a few days of marinating in the brine, your pickles will be ready to enjoy! These homemade refrigerator pickles are perfect for adding a zesty crunch to your meals or giving as a thoughtful, homemade gift. Just be sure to eat them within two weeks for the best flavor and texture.

 

Looking for another fun activity for the kids ? Check out our Garden Scavenger Hunt activity 

 

Image of A person holding a sunpatien
August 14, 2024 In Feature, featured, Specials

33% Off Woburn Grown Sunpatiens + New Guinea Impatiens!

Enjoy a fantastic deal on two of our favorite summer blooms! Mahoney’s Grown SunPatiens and New Guinea Impatiens, cultivated locally in our greenhouses, are now 33% off! These vibrant, resilient flowers are perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden. For more information on SunPatiens, including their history, care tips, and unique qualities, check out our blog!

 

Image of colorful pottery in garden center
August 14, 2024 In Feature, featured, Specials

50% Off Pottery Priced at $49.99 or More!

Save big on select pottery! All pottery pieces regularly priced at $49.99 or more are 50% off. This means huge savings on large, beautiful pottery to enhance your garden and home. Visit any of our seven locations this weekend and take advantage of these fantastic savings. Your perfect pottery piece is waiting for you!

Excludes Terra cotta. Excludes pottery at the Brighton location. Valid through 9/18/2024.

 

 

Child exploring flowers with a magnifying glass outdoors.
August 14, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library

Garden Scavenger Hunt: A Fun and Educational Activity for Kids

Ready to get started? Download our Garden Scavenger Hunt printable activity and watch as your child discovers the joys of the garden. Whether you’re looking for a weekend project or a way to make the most of a sunny afternoon, this activity is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

 

 

Engaging children in outdoor activities is a fantastic way to nurture their curiosity and foster a love for nature. Our latest printable activity, in partnership with KidsGardening, is a Garden Scavenger Hunt—a simple yet exciting way to get young ones exploring and observing the natural world around them.

Why a Garden Scavenger Hunt?

Gardens are full of wonders waiting to be discovered, from the tiniest insects to the most colorful flowers. However, young gardeners might sometimes need a little guidance to focus their attention and make the most of their time outside. A scavenger hunt offers the perfect balance of structure and freedom, allowing kids to explore while honing their observation skills.

How to Get Started

Materials Needed:

  • Scavenger hunt list (download our printable version or create your own)
  • Clipboard
  • Pencil or crayon

 

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Your List: Start by creating a list of items commonly found in gardens or nature. For younger children, consider using pictures instead of words. You can keep it simple with items like “bird” or “flower,” or challenge older kids with more specific items like “ladybug” or “oak leaf.”
  2. Gather Your Materials: Attach your scavenger hunt list to a clipboard and grab a pencil or crayon. This will make it easy for your little explorers to mark off items as they find them.
  3. Explore and Discover: Head out to your garden, a nearby park, or any green space. Encourage children to use their senses to find each item on the list. They can hunt with their eyes, ears, and even their sense of touch or smell.

 

Creative Variations to Try

  • Nature Bracelet: In a safe, private space, kids can collect small, non-living items and stick them to a bracelet made of masking tape (sticky side out). This turns the hunt into a craft activity, resulting in a unique keepsake.
  • Sensory Hunts: Instead of focusing solely on visual items, create a hunt based on sounds, textures, or smells. For example, children could listen for a bird’s song or feel the different textures of leaves and rocks.
  • Timed Challenge: Add an element of competition by timing how long it takes to complete the scavenger hunt. Kids can try to beat their previous times or compete for fun prizes.