Lawn and Garden Archives - Mahoney's Garden Center

September 4, 2024 In Blog, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Maximize Your Garden’s Potential with Fall Fertilization: The Power of Plant-tone and Holly-tone

As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves begin to turn, it’s time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. Fall fertilization is an essential step in ensuring your trees, shrubs, and plants remain healthy and vibrant through the winter and into spring. Two of the best products for this task are Plant-tone and Holly-tone by Espoma. Here’s why you should consider adding these fertilizers to your fall gardening routine.

Why Choose Plant-tone and Holly-tone for Fall Fertilization?

Long-lasting Nutrient Supply Plant-tone and Holly-tone are designed to feed your plants gently and consistently for up to six months. As the ground freezes, these fertilizers temporarily halt their feeding process, resuming only when the soil thaws in spring. This gradual release ensures your plants receive the nutrients they need throughout the winter without overwhelming them.

Tailored for All Plants

Plant-tone is an all-purpose plant food, perfect for a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and even vegetables and flowers.
Holly-tone is specifically formulated for acid-loving plants such as Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and Blueberries. This makes it the ideal choice for those particular species that thrive in more acidic soil.

Enhances Frost Resistance As temperatures drop below 40 degrees, plants undergo hormonal changes that direct nutrients to twigs, buds, and roots, making them more frost-resistant. Applying Plant-tone or Holly-tone before this temperature threshold can significantly improve your plants’ ability to withstand the cold.

Do All Plants Need Fall Fertilization?

Not all shrubs, bushes, and trees require fall fertilization. However, if your plants show signs of stress, such as undersized or pale green leaves, dead branch tips, dieback, or insect damage, they could benefit from an application. Well-fed plants are generally healthier and more resistant to pests and diseases.

Special Considerations for New and Transplanted Plants

Newly planted items need time to establish their root systems. Therefore, they don’t typically require fertilization right away. Instead, consider using Bio-Tone Starter Fertilizer to support root development before transitioning to regular fertilizers.

How to Apply Plant-tone and Holly-tone

For Shrubs:

Apply 1 cup per foot of drip line diameter, doubling the quantity if the diameter is larger than three feet.
Water thoroughly after application. If your plants are mulched, either temporarily remove the mulch before applying or double the application rate.

For Trees:

Use 1 lb. per inch of trunk diameter, tripling the amount for trunks with a diameter of 3 inches or more.
Dig 3-inch wide holes around the drip line, 12-18 inches deep, and 2-3 feet apart. Divide the fertilizer evenly among the holes, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.

For New Garden Beds:

Mix 10 lbs. of fertilizer per 100 square feet into the top 4-5 inches of soil before planting. For established beds, use 5 lbs. per 100 square feet.

Final Tips

Avoid fertilizing frozen soils, as this can damage the plants rather than nourish them.
Remember to follow up with another application in the spring to keep the nutrients flowing as the growing season begins.

By incorporating Plant-tone and Holly-tone into your fall garden care routine, you can ensure that your plants remain healthy and robust, ready to burst into life when spring arrives. Whether you’re caring for acid-loving plants or a variety of trees and shrubs, these fertilizers offer a simple and effective way to give your garden the care it deserves.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Container Gardening in Brighton-overflowing flower pots

May 15, 2024 In Lawn and Garden, Perennials, Seasonal, Uncategorized

Easy Container Gardening in Brighton

Millennials across the country are embracing the urban gardening movement. The desire for fresh, local produce and a connection to nature is booming, but limited outdoor space in apartments shouldn’t hinder this pursuit. Enter the magic of easy container gardening – a solution perfectly suited for transforming your Brighton balcony or patio into a thriving green haven.

Here at Mahoney’s Garden Center, we’re passionate about empowering apartment dwellers with the tools and knowledge to cultivate their own urban oasis. We’re your one-stop shop for everything container gardening, from premium products to expert guidance.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Container Gardening in Brighton-patio with container flowers and herbs

The Advantages of Container Gardening

Container gardening offers a multitude of benefits for busy millennials:

Imagine stepping outside your apartment to snip fresh herbs for tonight’s dinner or harvesting homegrown cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor. Container gardening allows you to enjoy the taste and health benefits of locally grown produce right at your fingertips.

Tired of a dull balcony or patio? Container gardening is your secret weapon to transform your outdoor space. Vibrant flowers, cascading vines, and leafy herbs create a beautiful escape, enhancing your curb appeal and providing a tranquil spot to relax amidst the city buzz.

Unlike traditional gardens, container gardening requires minimal space, time, and maintenance. It’s perfect for busy millennials who crave the satisfaction of growing their own food or beautifying their surroundings without a huge commitment.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Container Gardening in Brighton-yellow flowers in vintage pots

Mastering Container Gardening Basics

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the essentials:

The right pot is crucial for plant health. Bigger isn’t always better – choose a pot 1-2 inches wider than your plant’s current container to allow root growth without risking root rot. Drainage holes are essential to prevent waterlogging. Material selection also matters – lightweight plastic is easy to move, while classic terracotta offers breathability.

A high-quality potting mix is the foundation for success. Forget garden soil – it’s too dense for containers. Opt for a lightweight, well-draining mix specifically formulated for container gardening. Here at Mahoney’s, we offer a premium blend packed with essential nutrients to nourish your plants.

Not all plants are created equal for container success. We recommend easy-to-care-for varieties that thrive in the Massachusetts climate. Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary are perfect for culinary delights. Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens are rewarding choices. For an edible pop of color, try petunias, marigolds, or nasturtiums. If you’re looking for specific varieties proven to flourish in our region, visit us at Mahoney’s Garden Center and explore our curated selection.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Container Gardening in Brighton-herbs in terracotta pots

Essential Care Tips For Your Container Garden

Now that your containers are planted, here’s how to keep them thriving:

Tip #1. Watering is key, but don’t drown your plants! The frequency depends on the plant variety, pot size, and sun exposure. But here’s an important point for balcony gardeners: wind can dry out your plants quicker. As a general guideline, water plants deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain freely.

Tip #2: Sunlight is essential for plant growth. However, needs vary. Some herbs like mint thrive in partial shade, while vegetables like tomatoes require full sun exposure. Observe your balcony or patio throughout the day to identify sunny and shady areas. This will help you position your containers for optimal sunlight.

Tip #3: Even the best potting mix depletes nutrients over time. Regularly feeding your container plants with an organic fertilizer formulated for container gardens ensures they have the nourishment they need to flourish. At Mahoney’s Garden Center, we have a variety of fertilizer options to suit your specific plants.

We understand that container gardening success hinges on using the right tools and having access to expert guidance. That’s why we offer:

Premium Products: We carry a wide selection of high-quality containers, specially formulated potting mixes, organic fertilizers, and a curated range of plants.

Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable staff is passionate about container gardening and eager to answer your questions. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your balcony or patio’s specific conditions and your desired outcome.

Local Connection: We’re committed to supporting local growers and offering regionally adapted plants that thrive in the Massachusetts climate. This ensures your container garden flourishes throughout the season.

Embrace the Easy with Container Gardening

Container gardening empowers you to cultivate a thriving green haven in your Brighton apartment, no matter the size of your outdoor space. With fresh, locally grown produce at your fingertips and a beautiful balcony or patio to unwind in, the rewards are endless. Apartment gardening allows city dwellers with limited space to enjoy the benefits of fresh produce and a beautiful outdoor space. It’s easy to manage, requiring minimal time and effort, perfect for busy millennials. With the right pots, soil, and plants, you can transform your balcony into a thriving urban oasis.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Salt-Tolerant Plants-coastal garden

May 6, 2024 In Landscaping, Lawn and Garden, Perennials, Uncategorized

Salt-Tolerant Plants for a Thriving Coastal Garden

Imagine waking up to the calming sound of waves crashing against the shore and the refreshing scent of salty air filling your lungs. With its stunning coastal location, Falmouth offers a lifestyle many dream of, but this idyllic setting comes with a unique challenge: the harsh effects of salt spray on your beloved garden.

Fear not, fellow coastal dwellers! Salt-tolerant plants are your secret weapon to cultivate a thriving and breathtaking landscape. These resilient beauties not only withstand the salty ocean breeze but often thrive in the sandy soil conditions typical of coastal environments. With these plants, you have a low-maintenance garden that requires less water and thrives where other plants might struggle.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Salt-Tolerant Plants-sea oats-blue fescue

What are Salt-Tolerant Plants?

Traditional plants struggle in coastal environments because salt can build up in their tissues, causing dehydration and stunted growth. Salt-tolerant plants, however, have developed unique adaptations to overcome these challenges. Some have thick, waxy leaves that repel salt spray, while others have specialized glands that secrete excess salt. These adaptations allow them to flourish in the face of coastal adversity.

For Falmouth residents, salt-tolerant plants offer a multitude of benefits. They are naturally low-maintenance, requiring less frequent watering than their non-salt-tolerant counterparts, which translates into a water-wise and sustainable approach to gardening that is perfect for our coastal community. Additionally, they thrive in sandy soil conditions, eliminating the need for extensive soil amendments.

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Explore a Flourishing Falmouth Garden

Choosing the right plants for your Falmouth oasis doesn’t stop at salt tolerance. Here’s a look at care needs and sun requirements to ensure your coastal garden thrives:

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): This fragrant herb prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water moderately during the first year, then only occasionally once established. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a bushy shape.

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii): A sun-loving butterfly magnet! Plant Buddleja in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Water regularly during the first growing season, then deeply but infrequently thereafter. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming.

Sea Oats (Uniola paniculata): These graceful grasses thrive in full sun and sandy soil with good drainage. Water regularly during the first year, then only during prolonged dry spells. Cut back foliage in late winter to encourage new growth.

Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca): A low-maintenance wonder! Blue Fescue prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Water occasionally during hot, dry weather. This slow-growing grass requires minimal pruning, but you can remove dead foliage in early spring.

Mahoney's Garden Center-New England-Massachussets-Salt-Tolerant Plants-rosemary in flower

Bonus Tip: For extended blooms and a healthy garden, consider using a fertilizer formulated for coastal plants. Remember, these recommendations are a general guide. Always research the specific needs of each plant variety before planting.

The beauty of these salt-tolerant plants goes beyond their resilience. They add a unique coastal aesthetic to your Falmouth landscape, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.

Cultivating a Sustainable Community

Salt-tolerant plants are more than just beautiful additions to your garden; they contribute to a thriving Falmouth community. By using these salt-adapted plants, you reduce water usage, a valuable resource in any coastal region. These plants also attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, promoting a healthy ecosystem.

Additionally, choosing plants from local Falmouth nurseries and growers supports the local economy and contributes to a more sustainable community. A vibrant landscape with thriving salt-tolerant plants beautifies your property and adds to Falmouth’s overall charm, fostering a sense of community pride.

Ready to cultivate your own slice of coastal paradise? Visit our store in East Falmouth! Our friendly staff are experts in salt-tolerant plants and can help you choose the perfect varieties for your unique landscape needs. We offer a wide selection of locally grown flowers, shrubs, and grasses to bring your dream coastal garden to life.

April 4, 2024 In Landscaping, Lawn and Garden

Transform Your Landscape with Mulch Delivery: A Guide for Busy Urbanites

In the hustle and bustle of urban life, maintaining a beautiful outdoor space often takes a back seat. For young professionals residing in cities like Boston, Cambridge, or Worcester, limited time and energy can make traditional landscaping methods seem daunting. That’s where convenient solutions like mulch delivery services come in, offering a hassle-free way to transform urban landscapes. Imagine saying goodbye to the hassle of hauling heavy mulch bags and hello to the convenience of mulch delivery!

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Mulch Delivery Services for Busy Urbanites

Picture this: You’ve just returned home from a long day at work, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours hauling heavy bags of mulch to spruce up your garden. With mulch delivery services, that scenario becomes a thing of the past. We cater to the needs of busy young professionals by offering hassle-free delivery of high-quality mulch directly to your doorstep. Say goodbye to the back-breaking work of loading and unloading bags of mulch and hello to a more convenient and time-saving solution.

Mulch delivery services are a game-changer for young professionals living in busy cities in Massachusetts. It allows you to focus your time and energy on other priorities while still enhancing your garden’s health and aesthetics.

Experience the convenience of mulch delivery with Mahoney’s Garden Center.

Here’s how it works:

Browse our selection of mulch online at https://shop.mahoneysgarden.com/product/dark-mix-mulch-delivery-only/.
Choose from our available inventory locations: Chelmsford, Falmouth, or Winchester.
Provide your driveway delivery location during the checkout process.

That’s it! Sit back and relax as our team take care of the rest.

Not only does mulch delivery save time, but it also offers a seamless experience. Simply place your order online or over the phone, choose your preferred delivery date and time, and let the professionals at Mahoney’s Garden Center take care of the rest. No more worrying about transportation or storage – we handle everything from start to finish, ensuring a stress-free experience for busy urbanites.

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The Benefits of Mulch

The benefits of using mulch in landscaping cannot be overstated. Not only does mulch help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds, but it also improves soil structure and provides essential nutrients to plants. For urban dwellers looking to maintain a beautiful outdoor space amidst a hectic lifestyle, mulch is a must-have. With mulch delivery services, you can easily access high-quality mulch that will help keep your garden healthy and vibrant year-round.

Not all mulches are created equal. Unlike national brands that often use recycled construction materials, our mulches are derived from real tree bark, ensuring an eco-friendly and natural product. Our mulch undergoes an earth-friendly pigmentation process, preventing it from washing out after rain and maintaining its integrity over time. Additionally, being locally sourced from real tree bark sets our mulch apart, as it eliminates the risk of potential toxins and chemicals often found in recycled wood materials.

Furthermore, our mulches are double-ground, resulting in a finer texture that enhances their natural presentation and makes them easier to spread in your yard.

Tips for Effective Mulch Delivery

When utilizing mulch delivery services, it’s essential to consider factors such as choosing the right type of mulch for your garden’s needs and scheduling deliveries to fit your busy lifestyle. Fortunately, we offer a variety of mulch options, including organic and dyed varieties, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your landscape. Additionally, our flexible delivery options make it easy to coordinate deliveries at a time that works best for you, providing ultimate convenience for urban gardeners.

Please note that our bulk mulch, compost, and loam are sold by the yard. When placing an order, please pay attention to the minimum yardage requirements for your area. One cubic yard of mulch covers approximately 162 sq ft at a depth of 2 inches.

Browse our selection below:

Exploring Mulch Delivery Options in Tewksbury

Our garden center in Tewksbury boasts some of the best mulch in the area. Whether you’re looking to refresh your flower beds or mulch your vegetable garden, we got you covered with our wide selection of mulch options and efficient delivery services.

By eliminating the hassle of heavy lifting and tedious trips to the garden center, mulch delivery services empower urban dwellers to maintain beautiful outdoor spaces without sacrificing valuable time and energy. So why wait? Contact us now and explore the benefits of using mulch in landscaping and discover the convenience of mulch delivery options for residential gardens. Try out a local mulch delivery service today and transform your landscape with ease!

September 26, 2023 In Blog, Feature, featured, Home, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Crisp Air, Vibrant Lawns: Fall Seeding in New England Explained

Fall in New England is a wonderful time to seed your lawn for lush green come spring. This time of year provides the ideal combination of cool air and warm soil, creating the perfect conditions for new grass to develop healthy roots before winter. Whether you’re refreshing your existing lawn or starting anew, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step, for the lushest lawn in New England!

Step 1: Assess Your Seeding Needs

Before you begin, it’s essential to determine whether you’re overseeding to fill in sparse areas or embarking on a new seeding project. This initial decision will dictate the amount of seed you require.

Step 2: Measure Your Lawn Area

Take a leisurely stroll through your lawn, measuring its dimensions (length x width) to calculate the square footage accurately. This vital step will help you determine the quantity of seed and other necessary materials.

Step 3: Understand Your Lawn’s Light

Consider the lighting conditions in your yard, keeping in mind that they might have changed from the sun-soaked summer months. It’s crucial to understand how many hours of sunlight your lawn receives each day during the summertime when your trees are leafy. This knowledge will inform your choice of grass type.

Step 4: Prepare the Ground

Prepare your canvas by thoroughly cleaning the designated area. Remove any rocks, leaves, or debris. Also, keep an eye out for low spots that may require additional soil to create a level surface. For small areas, Mahoney’s Top Soil is an excellent choice, while larger areas may benefit from bulk loam. Don’t forget to compact the newly added soil with a roller or by lightly stepping down on it. This will prevent runoff during watering.

Step 5: Choose Your Grass Type

Select the type of grass that suits your lawn’s needs and your personal preferences. You can opt for a mix of varieties or individual grass types, such as Tall Fescue, Rye Grass, or Bluegrass, each with its unique characteristics and growth patterns. Click here to see our grass seed varieties and choose one that’s right for the light and traffic your lawn will be getting.

Step 6: Starter Fertilizer

Unless you’ve applied fall fertilizer within the past four weeks, it’s advisable to use a starter fertilizer. Look for a product with a higher middle number in the nutrient range (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium). The middle number represents phosphorus, which is important for healthy root development. Jonathan Green’s 12-18-8 is an excellent choice for both new seeding and overseeding. Apply it uniformly across your entire lawn area, avoiding separate applications.

Step 7: Determine Seeding Rates

The amount of seed you need depends on your seeding goals. For overseeding, aim for 1-3 pounds of seed per 1000 square feet, while new seeding typically requires 3-5 pounds per 1000 square feet. To achieve a thicker and more lush lawn, consider reapplying seed 14 days after the initial seeding to fill in any gaps.

Step 8: Tools of the Trade

Ensure an even seed distribution by using a push spreader or hand spreader. Avoid broadcasting seed by hand, which can result in uneven germination and waste.

Step 9: Cozy Cover for Cooler Nights

In cooler temperatures, consider using weed-free straw, compost, or salt marsh hay. These materials will provide insulation and protection to your seeds, promoting ideal germination conditions.

Step 10: Master the Art of Watering

Your freshly seeded lawn needs about 2 inches of water per week. A rain gauge can help you determine the time needed to achieve this, allowing you to schedule watering effectively. For optimal results, water deeply and in the morning, as evening watering can encourage pathogens and fungus.

Remember, patience is your greatest ally, and the reward will be a vibrant, green lawn that you can cherish in the seasons to come.

Happy seeding! May your lawn thrive and impress!

August 19, 2023 In Feature, Home, Lawn and Garden

FALL IS FOR PLANTING

.. Maybe Even the best time for planting…

It happens every year, people from towns near and far make their spring pilgrimage to Mahoney’s. They come filled with anticipation of new perennials, lush lawns, and flowering shrubs. Simply put, it’s spring, and they want to plant something. No question of course, that spring is a great time to plant, but what many people don’t realize is that fall is not only an equally good time to plant, in many ways it’s better.

To understand why, it’s good to remember that plants do not think like people. While we lament the end of summer, plants – especially newly planted plants – find the cooler days far less stressful. We may dig in our closets for a sweater, but for plants the soil feels warm, which boosts root growth. And while fall rains seem gloomy to us, plants much prefer it to the hot dry summer. And this is true for a whole host of plants: trees, shrubs, perennials, roses, ornamental grasses and even your lawn. Practically anything planted now will have extra time to establish, so when it’s time to grow and flower next year, it will give you a great show at your house, not at the garden center.

HOW LATE INTO THE FALL CAN YOU PLANT?

Fact is, if the ground isn’t frozen and you can still dig the hole, you can still plant. Planting in September and October however allows that much more time for plants to become established, so sooner is better.

There are other reasons fall is a great time for planting. Unlike a lot of garden centers that wind down for the year, Mahoney’s brings in lots of fresh new plants every fall, especially shrubs. Check out our new shipments arriving daily. Planting them now will allow you to enjoy the foliage throughout all seasons, including color changes this fall.

Fall is also the unofficial “hide your neighbor” season. Why, we’re not sure, but a lot of people plant hedges in the fall. We’ll have fresh arborvitae, boxwood and other hedging evergreens as well as privet, hydrangeas, ninebark, spirea, weigela and many more deciduous shrubs. (Social note: for neighbors that need immediate hiding, we carry large and fast growing hedge shrubs. The ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is especially popular)

Also very popular in the fall are miniature evergreens for urns, containers and window boxes. They add a festive touch for the holidays, and with a little protective care they will survive in a container through the winter. If you want to be greeted with tulips, daffodils and other flowers next spring, you have to plant the bulbs in fall.

Perennials especially benefit from the extra time in the ground before next spring. We bring in a lot of fresh perennials in the fall – especially the fall blooming varieties. We also have a wide selection of ornamental grasses – great for landscapes or containers.

Speaking of grasses, fall is the very best time to pay attention to your lawn. Not only do most lawns need a serious pick-me-up after the summer heat and dry spells, the warm fall soil encourages quick germination and cool air temperatures reduce stress.

August 17, 2023 In Feature, Home, Lawn and Garden

Fall Lawn Care Tips

Time is of the essence when it comes to fall lawn care. Start fall lawn care once summer has ended and before cold, winter weather begins. Assess your lawn for summer damage and tailor your fall lawn care routine to address your lawn’s specific needs.

If possible, we recommend planting grass seed at least 45 days before the first fall frost to allow for proper germination before the winter hits.

Remove Excess Thatch

Thatch is a layer of organic matter consisting of stems, dead grass, and leaves, that builds up above the soil and below the crown of the grass blades. Thatch is a normal part of every lawn, but too much thatch can cause headaches for your yard.

Thatch buildup that is more than ½ an inch thick on your lawn can block access to air, water, and nutrients that grass seedlings need to grow. Excess thatch on your lawn can also harbor disease-causing fungi and insects that weaken and ultimately kill your grass.

Remove excess thatch by using a metal rake, but do not rake so vigorously that healthy green grass is removed from your lawn.

Aerate Compacted Soil

Compacted soil can inhibit healthy root development and limit the flow of oxygen to the soil. Soil must be loose and porous prior to seeding for grass seedlings to germinate and grow.

Core aeration removes soil plugs from your yard, therefore creating space in the soil for air, water, and necessary nutrients to travel to your lawn’s root system. You can manually do this with an aerating tool, or rent a gas-powered aerator.

If you’re looking for an alternative to heavy and unwieldy aerators, Jonathan Green Love Your Soil^® naturally loosens compacted soil and increases necessary airflow to your lawn’s root system. Plus, you don’t need extra equipment, it’s easily applied with the same spreader you use for grass seed and fertilizer.

Overseed a Thinning Lawn

READ OUR FULL OVERSEEDING GUIDE HERE

If you want a thicker, greener lawn for spring, fall is the perfect time to overseed! The hot, summer sun has probably done a number on your grass, causing thin or dead spots. Take advantage of the fall season’s warm soil temperatures, ample moisture, and cool nights to thicken up a thinning lawn.

To prepare your lawn for overseeding, adjust your mower to the lowest setting and mow the area you want to seed. Be sure to bag clippings afterward. After mowing, rake the area with a metal rake to create grooves in the soil and remove dead grass and debris. This will help grass seeds make seed-to-soil contact and improve the rate of germination.

Next, spread grass seed. For larger areas, spread seed with a rotary spreader. You should wait until your new grass grows to about four inches before mowing.

Feed Your Lawn

Fertilizing your cool-season lawn during fall is important to repair summer damage, supply it with nutrients to withstand the brutal winter months, and green up quicker in spring.

Cool season grasses like to be fertilized twice in the fall – one application in early fall (late August to September) and another in late fall (late October to November). The first application helps strengthen weak or brown spots from summer and the second helps to protect your lawn against winter disease. Make sure your second application occurs before the ground freezes.

Opt for a fertilizer rich in both potassium and nitrogen (the N and K in the NPK ratio found on the front of fertilizer bags) such as Winter Survival Fall Lawn Fertilizer. Nitrogen aids in plant growth and greener grass. Potassium builds stronger cell walls and root systems, which helps your lawn endure times of stress and harsh weather conditions.

Lawn Mower Height

As your grass is still growing throughout fall, it is important to continue to maintain a regular mowing schedule. Once grass growth begins to slow down, lower your mower height to about 2.5 inches. For the last mow of fall, which will usually be between late October to early November, drop your mower to 2 inches to discourage winter disease, such as snow mold.

Watering the Lawn

Fall weather signals the end of sweltering, summer heat and the need to frequently water your lawn. Rainfall in autumn results in less evaporation and more moisture so your lawn can sustain itself. While this means your grass needs less to drink in the fall, this doesn’t mean you should stop watering altogether. Water your lawn as needed, making sure it receives about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. Continue to water your lawn until the ground freezes.

Remove Leaves

While fall leaves may look picturesque on your lawn they can be harmful to your grass. Leaving piled-up leaves on your lawn blocks necessary sunlight for new grass seedlings. If your lawn is damp, wet leaves can encourage lawn fungus and kill the grass underneath.

Remove leaves from your lawn by using a leaf blower or a rake. For newly seeded lawns it is best to use a leaf blower, as a rake may damage or hinder new seedlings from growing. If you choose to rake, carefully glide the rake over the leaves when the soil is dry to remove them.

June 19, 2023 In Feature, Home, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Attracting Ruby-throated Hummingbirds to Your Garden

Seeing a hummingbird is always an exciting event! These tiny beautiful creatures who feast on the nectar of flowers are amazing to behold. Read on to learn more about the ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) that makes its home in Massachusetts.

Fast Facts

Males have unmistakable glossy green feathers on their head and midriff and a stunning, glittering red necklace (hence the namesake).
These brightly colored feathers around the throat of a hummingbird are known as a gorget.
Females can be distinguished from the males because they do not have a gorget.
Hummingbirds migrate in the spring, arriving in the Bay State in April and May.
The ruby-throated hummingbird the smallest breeding bird in the state of Massachusetts.
Is the only hummingbird species that breeds and nests in the eastern US.
Hummingbirds use lichen, those crusty plantlike organisms found on tree bark, along with other fibers to form their nests and they cleverly hold it all together with spiderwebs!
Their wings beat 53 times per second.
Those fast-flapping wings burn a lot of energy so hummingbirds must eat more than their own weight in insects and nectar daily!

Hummingbird feeders.

Early Season Care for our Beautiful and Magical Friends

Put feeders out in late April or early May until flowers in your garden can offer a source of food.
To make a nectar, dissolve one part refined white sugar into four parts boiling water and be sure to let it cool before adding it to your feeder.
Red dye isn’t necessary. It is neither helpful nor harmful – it is the color of the feeding port (usually red) that attracts the hummingbird.
Clean the feeder at least once a week to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Hummingbirds eat both nectar and insects so if you see ants on the feeder, chances are the hummingbirds will take care of them.
Provide a source of water for bathing – it’s another chance to observe them up close!

Planting a Garden to Attract Hummingbirds

Like us, hummingbirds appreciate a variety of flowers, from annuals in containers to tall perennial specimens. They especially like flowers that are tubular in shape and brightly colored.

Calibrachoa

Consider adding some of the following to your garden:

Annuals

Agastache (red and orange varieties)
Calibrachoa (both superbells and million bells)
Cleome (spider flower – a good nectar source for hummingbirds and swallowtails butterflies)
Fuchsia (a hummingbird magnet)
Lantana
Nasturtium
Nicotiana (flowering tobacco)
Petunias
Salvia (especially fire cracker red)
Sunflowers
Zinnias (especially large size flowers)

Perennials

Agastache (perennial varieties such as Blue Fortune)
Asclepias (milkweed)
Aquilegia (columbine)
Baptisia
Echinacea (coneflower)
Heuchera (coral bells)
Hibiscus moschuetos
Lamprocapnos spectabilis (bleeding heart)
Lobelia cardinalis
Monarda (bee balm)
Nepeta (catmint)
Phlox
Salvia (perennial varieties such as East Friesland and Caradonna)

Shrubs

Azalea
Buddleia (butterfly bush)
Chaenomeles (flowering quince)
Clethra alnifolia (summersweet)
Lilac
Lonicera (honeysuckle vine)
Rhododendron
Viburnum
Weigela

May 22, 2023 In Feature, Home, info-library, Lawn and Garden

The Importance of Water

When we talk about the importance of newly planted trees and shrubs becoming “established” in the garden, we are referring to the development of a healthy root system. This root system is the basis for the plant’s top growth and long term health. And water is the key ingredient in developing that root system. For the first two years of its life in your garden, the tree and its roots are particularly sensitive to water deficits. As the tree matures, its roots reach deeper into the ground and are able to tap water sources there.

New shrubs and trees will require supplemental watering throughout the first growing season, right up to the onset of winter, and again in the second growing season. Water needs to be applied in the form of a gentle and deep soaking, down to the bottom and around the entire circumference of the root ball. Importantly, plants will require this watering at least once a week, and oftentimes twice a week in order to prevent any part of the root system from drying out.

How much water a plant needs depends on its size. A small shrub will need 2-3 gallons of water each time it is watered. A larger shrub, 3-5 gallons. A small tree will need 5-8 gallons. Mid-sized and larger trees, correspondingly more.

Water can be delivered in several different ways:

Leave a hose on a slow trickle at the base of the plant sufficient to soak the root mass.
Slowly pour large buckets of water around the plant, allowing each bucket full to soak into the soil.
Hook up a dripper hose on a timer which will relieve you of the burden of finding time in your busy schedule.
Know which of your perennials are more drought tolerant (ex. Sedum, Coneflower, Yarrow) and those which need regular watering to look their best. Using a watering can or a hose on a very gentle trickle applied at the base of the plant is the best way to apply water where it is needed most.

Sedum are drought tolerant plants.

When and how much we water our plants is of course influenced by how much rain we receive. While it is tempting to skip your watering duties when we get a light afternoon shower, be mindful that a light shower is not likely to be enough to soak the depth of the root ball. Knowing that established plants require at least an inch of water every week, it is helpful to keep an eye on your weather app or an old-fashioned rain gauge to track weekly totals.

Two watering strategies that will not serve your plants well:

Watering frequently but lightly does not benefit the tree or shrub as it encourages root development at the surface, making the roots particularly vulnerable to drying out in times of water deficit.
Keeping a plant in soaking wet conditions day after day will deplete the oxygen in the soil, not a good thing for any life form! Hence the need for deep watering followed by a period in which the soil is allowed to dry out.

Even as night time temperatures cool and the grass is moist with dew in the morning, it is important to keep up your program of supplemental watering until the ground freezes.

And remember, most plants prefer deep infrequent waterings to frequent shallow ones. See our planting guide for more information!

April 21, 2023 In Feature, Home, info-library, Lawn and Garden

Choosing the Right Pottery for Your Home, Porch, or Yard

Pottery is an investment that can add interest to your home and show off your personal style no matter what plants you choose to put in them. But with so many styles and colors to choose from, deciding what’s right for you and your plants isn’t totally straightforward. We are here to help demystify the process with a few things to keep in mind when choosing a container for your home, porch, or yard.

Size Matters.

When it comes to pottery, size is a major factor both for your budget and for the health of the plants you place in your pots. You may be tempted to go big so that you never have to re-pot but be careful! When plants are planted into containers significantly larger than their nursery pots the root system is not robust enough to absorb all the water in the soil and that can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb when transplanting into a new container is that the diameter of the new pot should only be about two inches wider than the plant’s current pot.

If you fall in love with a decorative container that’s too large for your plant but you know that it will eventually grow into it you can slowly acclimate it to the larger pot using inexpensive grow pots that fit inside your decorative container or by using an Ups-A-Daisy, which will reduce the amount of soil you need in the pot until your plant’s root system is ready for more.

An Ups-A-Daisy can reduce the amount of soil needed to fill your pot!

On the flip side, you do not want to try to cram a plant in a six-inch diameter grow pot into another six-inch diameter decorative pot, particularly if the decorative pot has a tapered bottom. Never go smaller, your plants need room to grow.

Drainage and Airflow are Important.

You may have noticed that when you buy plants, they usually come in plastic containers with several drainage holes along the bottom. Air is every bit as important to a healthy root system as water. Roots cannot breathe when the soil is sopping wet, all the air molecules get crowded out by water molecules. If you are planning to transplant directly into a decorative container, drainage holes are a must. It is even better if you can get air moving under your plant. Pot feet or Ups-A-Daisys are a terrific way to do this.

Pot feet create airflow under your container.

Some decorative indoor containers are manufactured without holes so that indoor surfaces are protected. These are called cache pots and it is best to leave your plants in their grow pots (with all those drainage holes) and pop the whole thing into the container. Check out the video below for how to use a cache pot!

Different Materials Meet Different Goals.

Now that we understand the basics of size, drainage, and airflow, it is time to choose a container made from materials that meet your specific needs.

Terra Cotta

A favorite of plants everywhere and a classic that is making its way back into chic and modern home design, terra cotta is a smart choice for even moisture distribution and healthy roots. Because terra cotta is porous, oxygen exchange is facilitated throughout the root system, not just at the bottom. Additionally, terra cotta absorbs excess moisture to prevent plant roots from staying soggy for too long. These days, terra cotta is available not just in the classic earthy orange but also in attractive “chocolate” and “vanilla” tones to seamlessly integrate into any color scheme.

Terra cotta is the hands down favorite of most plants.

Glazed Pottery

Speaking of color, nothing offers the variety of hues like glazed ceramic pottery. Additionally, you will find a broad selection of shapes and sizes and many of these pots are crafted to be frost resistant. However, keep in mind that frost-resistant does not mean it is freeze-proof. Water expands when it turns to ice so moisture in your planters can push a ceramic pot to the breaking point during a freeze. Raising your outdoor pots off the ground with pot feet can help create airflow that will melt the ice during warmer days. When in doubt, it is best to empty your ceramic pots and bring them into the garage after Christmas to protect your investment. A dolly is helpful for this!

Glazed pottery at Mahoney’s in Winchester.

Lightweight Fiber Clay

Great for indoors or out, lightweight fiber clay offers the gravitas of stone with the easy maneuverability of durable plastic. Fiber clay is freeze-tolerant, making it a good option for year-round use but it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

Using ice melt around fiber clay will corrode the finish. Keep them looking great by avoiding the base of the pot when using ice melt.
Even freeze-tolerant materials like fiber clay can still crack if moisture in the soil inside them freezes and expands. To prevent this, we suggest raising all your outdoor pots on pot feet. Elevating them allows for better drainage and airflow, so water doesn’t accumulate and freeze.

By taking these simple steps, you can keep your outdoor pottery safe and looking great all year round.

Lightweight fiber clay, also known as fiber cement.

Plastic

If you know you will be moving your pots around to suit your design choices or crops each season, plastic is another great and affordable choice. It’s ideal for container gardening with herbs, veggies, and annuals and available in several different colors and finishes. Do be sure to bring these inside for the winter. Plastic will easily crack if it gets too cold. Fortunately, this is easy to do since they are so lightweight!

Plastic pots are easy to stack, store, and move throughout the season.

Cedar Boxes

The ultimate choice for New England, cedar boxes are classic, beautiful, and easily withstand freezing temperatures. Cedar will naturally weather to a lovely beachy grey tone, but you can preserve the original wood color by staining with a protective finish or paint to suit your color palette. Be sure to treat inside and out to prolong the life of the wood and if you are using the container for edibles, finish with non-toxic linseed oil.

Cedar boxes are the most durable choice for year round use.

Specialty Pots

Certain plants will benefit from specialized pots to live their best life. These include orchids, which are epiphytes and like their roots to be extremely well-aerated. That’s why orchid pots have holes in the sides to provide sufficient air circulation! On the other hand, African violets and ferns like to stay consistently moist and self-watering pots are great for this purpose.

The terra cotta inner pot wicks moisture up to the plant from the decorative reservoir!