The Real Dirt

The current emphasis on water-wise gardening has created an interest in succulents. All succulents are able to store water and food in their leaves, stems and roots. These stored nutrients can be released when needed. This makes them drought tolerant.

What can you do with a plot of land that's empty and full of weeds? Plant a garden and start composting with your neighbors! St.

If you plan to travel this summer, now might be a good time to install an automatic watering system. Doing so can ensure that your plants will not be under-watered or over-watered in your absence.

Quiet, solitude and a connection with nature can be vital to one's peace of mind. Health care centers and hospitals have discovered this, and often incorporate garden spaces into their architectural designs with an eye towards reducing anxiety and improving recovery.

As concern grows over the decline in the honey bee population, alternative pollinators are gaining attention. Mason bees, which are native to North America, are one option. These gentle-natured bees do not produce honey but they excel at pollinating and are easy to raise.