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Q. When I was in a coffee shop recently I overheard a conversation about using coffee grounds in the garden. Do you have any information on this practice?
A. I have a longstanding habit of saving used coffee grounds, letting them dry out a little, and scattering them thinly around and under the blueberries, rhododendrons and other shrubs that prefer an acidic soil. The coffee grounds are acidic. They are also a source of nitrogen for the plants.
I’ve heard of gardeners using the grounds as a scented repellent to deter raccoons from raiding bush fruits. I’ve never used the grounds for that purpose, but it might be worth trying.
Because coffee grounds tend to cake over in water-repellent mode, and become mouldy when laid thickly on the ground, it is always best to scatter them thinly or scratch them into the soil. Coffee grounds are an excellent addition to compost heaps as well.
Q. In the container garden on my deck I have thriving compact rhododendrons and even fruiting plants like blueberries, but I am puzzled by a very healthy hydrangea that has produced flower clusters in a muddy pinkish-purple instead of the vivid blue they are supposed to be. Is there anything I can do to begin returning the blooms to the colour I want?
A. Substances that will acidify the soil will turn the flowers blue. Most commonly recommended is aluminum sulphate, but powdered sulphur could also be sprinkled on the soil and scratched in to begin the acidification process. Apply the sulphur away from the plant’s stems and closer to the pot rim.
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Beneficial Insects – These tiny heroes play an essential role in maintaining a healthy, vibrant garden by controlling harmful pests naturally, reducing the need for chemical interventions. From pollination to pest control, they’re the unsung champions that can dramatically improve your gardening game.
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The title of this article may sound absurd to you, and if you’re offended–you may declare that we’re posting rubbish content these days. You can even suggest us to change our Editor (We got a new editor recently). But believe it or not, human urine can be of great use in the garden.
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