First Bloom: Dutch Iris

Photo: First Dutch Iris Bloom of the Season

I love starting my morning off in the garden especially in Spring when there is so much activity.  This morning one of the Dutch Iris bulbs I ordered from Michigan Bulb Company last year greeted me in full bloom!  I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

DIY Apple Carton Seedling Starter

Apple Carton Seedling Starter

This empty apple carton looked like it could be a great seedling starter.  Keeping the soil evenly moist is critical in getting seeds to germinate, and as you can see in the photo above, this container traps moisture well.  This is my first time using this type of container, but I have high hopes.

DIY Apple Carton Seedling Starter

Materials:

• Empty apple container or similar container.  We got this one from Costco.
• Permanent Marker
• Potting soil
• Seeds
• Water (use a hose with a mister nozzle, a spray bottle, or gently pour water from a cup)
• Pen and Paper (to track what seeds you planted)

Directions: 

1. Close the container, and number each dome.  This makes recording what you planted in each dome easier. 
2. Open the container, and fill each space with soil.  
3. Then plant your seeds in each pod, and make sure you write down which seeds were planted in each pod.
4. Then gently water the soil in a way that does not disturb the seeds.  Water until the soil is moist, but not soggy.  
5. Close the container and place it on a level surface in a shady area.  Then wait!  You should not have to water the plant for several days.  Only water the soil if it looks or feels dry to the touch.

Empty Carton

Planting Seeds in Empty Apple Carton

Spittle Bugs Are Hatching

Photo: Spittle bug hiding in "foam" or "spittle"

Foam or a spittle-like substance has appeared on my strawberries, kohlrabi, fennel, parsley, chamomile, African daisies and calendula, which means the spittle bugs (also known as froghoppers) have hatched.
In its earlier stage, spittle bugs take in the sap from plants and secrete bubbles from its other end to cover itself.  This layer of bubbles provide protection from predators.

Although spittle bugs do feed from the sap of plants, the amount of damage is minimal.  Therefore, insecticide is not necessary when there is only a moderate infestation.  Instead I have been dislodging the "foam" and the spittle bug by spraying the affected plants with a strong jet of water from the hose.  Without its protection of foam, the spittle bug will be exposed to natural  predators and the elements.