Herbs

How to Grow Mugwort, the Invasive Common Artemisia

Mugwort’s scientific name is Artemisia vulgaris which means common Artemisia. It is one of the 300 Artemisia species, which are part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family. This perennial herb is indigenous to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, but has spread throughout Northern America and other parts of the world. It is used in traditional Chinese… Continue reading How to Grow Mugwort, the Invasive Common Artemisia

Herbs

Which Type of Lavender Should you Grow? There are over 450 Varieties!

Lavender is one of the best plants you can include in your garden. However, you should make sure to plant the correct type of lavender since they need different growing conditions and can grow in different climates. Growing lavender is not as easy as other herbs. This plant needs good drainage and sun. It is… Continue reading Which Type of Lavender Should you Grow? There are over 450 Varieties!

Herbs

How to Grow Mint, a Vigorous Plant that Should be Contained

Those that want to grow mint in their gardens or indoors do not need to make much effort since this plant is quite hardy. Many people even consider it to be invasive, so make sure you keep this perennial controlled, preferably in a container. Mint pretty much grows on its own if it has the… Continue reading How to Grow Mint, a Vigorous Plant that Should be Contained

Herbs

Sage Thrives in a Hot and Humid Environment

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a great herb to grow in your garden or indoors. This perennial grows quickly, attracting beneficial insects and pollinators. Sage is a low shrub with pale green-gray leaves that feel like velvet when touched. This herb is quite aromatic and flavorful, which is why it is used for culinary purposes. Sage… Continue reading Sage Thrives in a Hot and Humid Environment

Gardening

Comprehensive Guide to Companion Planting

There are plants that grow well together and plants that are problematic if planted next to each other. This is the principle of companion planting. Sustainable garden practices or permaculture promote polyculture, mixing species, rather than monoculture, planting only one specie. For best results, you should do crop rotation, have good soil and correct spacing… Continue reading Comprehensive Guide to Companion Planting

Diseases and Pests · Insects

13 Beneficial Insects that Will Annihilate Pests

What are Beneficial Insects? It is best to plant a variety of species in your garden to avoid problematic insects and plagues. Companion planting is the practice of having plants that complement each other. Plenty of harmful species are repelled by specific types of plants. Having a combination of flowers, herbs and vegetables will also… Continue reading 13 Beneficial Insects that Will Annihilate Pests

Gardening

11 Sustainable and Resourceful Permaculture Concepts

The first time I head about permaculture was back in 2012 when I visited John Douglas, aka the “Lazy Farmer”, a retired Peace Corps volunteer. Now in his 70s, he still teaches how to do organic permaculture through a technique he calls the “magic circle” where he creates a depression in the soil and adds… Continue reading 11 Sustainable and Resourceful Permaculture Concepts