Why Seeds Matter

Human beings have been adorning themselves with botanical jewelry made from seeds for thousands of years, and so can you. Dried bean beads for jewelry are inexpensive and come in an array of colors and patterns, and you can even grow your own. Jewelry made from seeds is a relatively simple project — the only difficulty being drilling a hole through the bean.

We all want the best for our garden, but what are good quality seeds? The terms can be confusing. Heirloom, open pollinated, hybrid, resistant, and more descriptors pervade the language when it comes to seeds. Are some seeds better than others? We will investigate the terms and meanings behind seed definitions and get to the bottom of the characteristics of good quality seeds.

Interior design trends come and go—two-toned kitchen cabinets? As of now, out. Incorporating natural elements? As always, in. But, there's one decorating movement that’s ridden the trend wave for years (and years) now, and we want an answer to its ultimate trendiness: farmhouse design.  After a decade of shiplap walls and barn doors saturating the interior design world, the question remains: is farmhouse still in style? Or, should you set down the distressed wood and try another trend? We asked two design experts for their thoughts. 

Here are the Best Seeds for Gardening that Grow Quickly in Just 5 Days! From herbs to vegetables and fruits – we have picked the most quick ones to sprout!

If you like chillies – and you have enough sun to grow them in – they are a brilliant choice for containers and small spaces. In this post you can find out why I find them so good, my three favourite varieties (the choice of variety makes a big difference), and three wonderful sauces / pickles to make with your harvests. I’d love to learn about your favourite chilli varieties and homemade chilli sauces in the comments below.

Why Is My Ficus Dropping Leaves?

Fionuala Campion says in her article, Dazzling Deer-Resistant Perennials, “Though very graceful and delightful to behold in their native habitat, deer are a voracious force to reckon with in many Northern California gardens, particularly in summer and fall.” But these majestic creatures are not just an issue for gardeners on the west coast. There are populations of deer in all 50 states, and all are munching on the many different plants we’re growing across the country.

Autumn, next to spring, is one of the most popular seed-sowing seasons, especially for flowers. Plants that are native to colder climates are also perfect for autumn sowing.

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Carson Downing; Design: Better Homes & Gardens

Sowing seeds doesn’t need to be a tricky business. Whether you are planting vegetable seeds such as chillies and tomatoes, or colourful sweet pea flowers or cornflowers, a dibber will help you out.