Hello More Than Gardeners,
As summer progresses and we approach the cooler days of fall, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next steps in the garden. Here are some seasonal tasks to keep in mind:
Observe your garden: Is there a plant that’s grown too large? Consider splitting it in the fall.
Check plant shapes: Summer storms can damage limbs. Pruning now can help restore structure and prevent future issues.
Rearrange your plants: Fall is the best time to transplant. As temperatures drop, plants enter dormancy and focus on root growth, which sets them up for success in spring.
Thinking about removing lawn? Smothering with cardboard now will make converting grass patches into garden beds much easier by October.
Understanding Weeds and How to Handle Them
We will be managing weeds through much of the fall, and it's important to remember that not all weeds are the same.
A “weed” is simply an unwanted plant in a particular place. For native plant enthusiasts, the term also refers to invasive species. While native plants are not considered invasive, some can behave very aggressively. This may be an opportunity to divide and transplant them—or even share extras at a plant swap with friends or neighbors.
How to Approach Different Weeds
Seed-spreading weeds: These weeds should be pulled before they flower and go to seed. Seeds can travel up to 5 miles through wind, water, or animals. Common Long Island examples include:
Mugwort
Dandelion
Chicory
Ragweed
Root-spreading weeds: Best controlled by smothering—lay down cardboard, weigh it down, and cover with mulch. Do this now to weaken the roots before fall. Weeds that respond well to smothering include:
Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie)
Field Bindweed
Curly Dock
Poison Ivy
Nutsedge
Weeds that require repeated cutting: Some aggressive species can be weakened and eventually eliminated through consistent cutting at the base. This prevents photosynthesis and drains the plant’s energy reserves. Examples include:
Japanese Knotweed
Garlic Mustard
Yellow Dock
Common Burdock
Tip: Prevent weeds from flowering whenever possible. Many weed seeds can remain viable in the soil for years, waiting for the right conditions to germinate.
Need Help with Fall Garden Tasks?
Fall is one of our busiest and most productive seasons. If you’d like assistance with weeding, garden cleanups, lawn removal, or new plantings, we’re here to help.
Book early to secure your place in our schedule.
Thank You for Siding with the Planet
Every step you take—whether it’s skipping synthetic mulch, planting native species, or reusing organic materials—contributes to a more sustainable, biodiverse world. Your garden is part of the solution.
With appreciation,
Agatha and the More Than Gardens Team
Hello More Than Gardeners,
Winter is still here, and it keeps bringing snow! Heavy snow can weigh down branches, causing them to break, and block sunlight and air, which can stunt growth. A quick shake helps prevent damage and ensures your plants can continue thriving through the cold.
Take some time to peek at any buds that might be coming up too early due to the temperature oscillating and help protect them by covering them with mulch or burlap.
We’re HOT Booking Estimate Visits!
If you're thinking about starting a food garden this year, now is the time to act! Make sure to buy your seeds soon, as supplies can be already running low. Planting season is just around the corner, so secure your seeds early to ensure you’re ready to grow your own fresh ORGANIC food when the time comes. Don’t miss out on this wonderful experience
Sowing the Seeds of Organic Living: A Guide to Indoor Seed Starting
Organic gardening is more than just a method of growing plants—it's a way of life that emphasizes sustainability, health, and a deep connection to nature. When you cultivate an organic garden, you're not only nurturing food for your body but also growing medicinal herbs and other useful plants that support your well-being. This week, we’re focusing on one of the most essential steps in organic gardening: starting seeds indoors.
1. Why Choose Organic Gardening?
Grow Your Own Food and Medicine
Organic gardening offers the freedom to produce nutritious, chemical-free food and herbs right from your backyard. By choosing organic methods, you ensure that your produce is free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, leading to healthier meals and a reduced environmental footprint.
Empowerment Through Self-Sufficiency
Starting your garden with organic seeds and natural cultivation techniques gives you complete control over what goes into your food and medicine. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of the plant life cycle and empowers you to take charge of your health and the health of the planet.
2. The Importance of Seeds in Organic Gardening
Seeds are the foundation of every garden. Choosing the right seeds and starting them indoors can set you up for success throughout the growing season. Indoor seed starting allows you to:
Extend the Growing Season: Begin the growth process early and transplant robust seedlings once outdoor conditions are favorable.
Control Growth Conditions: Provide your seeds with optimal warmth, moisture, and light, ensuring stronger, healthier plants.
Experiment with Varieties: Try out unique and heirloom varieties that might not be readily available as established plants in your local market.
3. Getting Started with Indoor Seed Starting
Preparing Your Space
Set up a dedicated seed-starting area in your home. This could be a sunny windowsill, a small greenhouse, or a space equipped with grow lights. The key is to ensure that your seedlings receive consistent warmth and adequate light.
Essential Tools and Materials
Seed Trays or Containers: Choose containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Seed Starting Mix: Use a light, sterile medium that encourages root growth without the risk of disease.
Labels: Keep track of each variety and planting date to monitor progress.
Grow Lights (if needed): Supplement natural light with LED or fluorescent grow lights to ensure your seedlings get enough energy.
Step-by-Step Basics
Plan and Select Your Seeds: Decide which vegetables, herbs, or medicinal plants you’d like to grow. Some popular choices include basil, mint, cilantro, and even medicinal plants like echinacea.
Sow the Seeds: Fill your containers with the seed starting mix, plant the seeds at the depth recommended on the seed packet, and water gently.
Provide Warmth and Light: Keep the containers in a warm area or under grow lights. A consistent temperature and at least 12-16 hours of light per day can be crucial during the early stages.
Monitor and Maintain: Check your seedlings daily, water when the top layer of soil feels dry, and thin out weak seedlings to give the stronger ones room to grow.
Transplant When Ready: Once the seedlings develop strong roots and the outdoor conditions are right, transplant them into your organic garden or larger containers.
4. Recommended Seed Catalogs
To support your organic garden journey, consider exploring some of our favorite seed catalogs:
Rare Seeds: Visit www.rareseeds.com for a diverse selection of heirloom and unique seed varieties.
Botanical Interests: Explore www.botanicalinterests.com for high-quality seeds that focus on both culinary and medicinal plants
.
5. Tips for Successful Indoor Seed Starting
Timing is Key: Start seeds indoors several weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This head start allows for a robust transplant to your garden.
Humidity and Temperature: Use a humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture during the germination phase, but be sure to remove it once the seedlings emerge to prevent mold growth.
Rotation for Even Growth: If using natural light from a window, rotate your seed trays every few days to ensure even growth.
We hope these tips help you feel ready to dive into indoor seed starting! With the right care, you’ll be setting yourself up for a season full of healthy, vibrant plants. Remember, it’s all about patience and a little attention to detail, and soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the rewards of your hard work—fresh, homegrown goodness right from your own garden.
Whether you’re growing food for your kitchen or herbs for wellness, there’s something really special about watching your plants grow from seed to harvest. Happy planting, and here’s to a thriving garden this season!
Agatha & The More Than Gardens Team
Hello More Than Gardeners,
It’s almost February and thankfully the temperatures are holding up. It might feel like your garden has gone completely dormant. However, there’s still plenty to observe, care for, and plan during this time. Here are a few announcements and tips to help you stay engaged with your garden and and Nature itself this season:
Announcements:
We’re currently booking early consultations for spring projects! Whether you’re thinking about a new design, planting, or an eco-friendly upgrade, now is the perfect time to start planning.
Stay tuned for our upcoming workshop on creating sustainable landscapes—we’re excited to share tips and inspiration with you soon!
Timely Winter Gardening Tips:
Keep an Eye on Your Trees and Shrubs: Heavy snow and ice can cause damage. Brush off excess snow gently with a broom to prevent branches from breaking.
Look for Animal Activity: Winter is a critical time for local wildlife. Check your property for signs of animals—like rabbits or deer—that might be nibbling on bark or stems. Consider adding protective wraps or barriers to vulnerable plants.
Check for Winter Weeds: Believe it or not, some invasive weeds continue to grow through winter. Take a moment to inspect garden beds on milder days.
Assess Drainage Issues: Snow melt can reveal areas where water pools or drains poorly. Identifying these spots now can help you plan for spring fixes like rain gardens or improved grading
Plan for the Future: Use this time to dream big for your garden. Whether it’s adding native plants, creating better pollinator habitats, or designing a beautiful feature, winter is the perfect time to strategize for the growing season.
Winter is also a great opportunity to reflect on the joy your garden has brought to your life and consider new ways to make it even more sustainable and fulfilling in the year ahead.
Having Exotic Plants Responsibly
Did you know that humans have been using and migrating plants across regions since the beginning of time? While native plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, it’s also possible to enjoy exotic plants responsibly—ensuring they don’t harm the environment.
At More Than Gardens, we encourage mindful practices when incorporating exotic plants into your home or garden. Here are some tips to get the best of both worlds:
Keep Exotic Plants Indoors or in Planters: Houseplants and contained planters are perfect for exotic species, reducing their chances of spreading into natural ecosystems.
Prevent Seed Spread: After exotic plants flower, trim them before they set seed to avoid unintentional spreading to nearby natural areas.
Make Educated Planting Decisions: Be a responsible land steward by understanding the needs and potential risks of exotic plants before introducing them to your property.
By managing your land mindfully and incorporating science-backed strategies, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of exotic plants while contributing to a thriving, balanced ecosystem.
Do you need help creating a mindful garden or landscape?
Reach out to us today! We’re here to guide you in cultivating a garden that’s both beautiful and ecologically sustainable.
Together, we can create spaces that harmonize human needs with nature’s well-being.
Warm regards,
Agatha
More Than Gardens Inc.
