Aven Gardening

15 DIY Ideas for Self-Watering Planters

January 14, 2019 by David Rheem Leave a Comment

When I am staying away from my home for at least one night one of the things I tended to worry about was being able to find someone who could water my plants. Especially in the summer a couple of nights without being watered could hurt those plants.

Such worries have gone since I found a method that water plants by themselves, and by precisely the right amount to allow the plants to survive. In total, I found 15 DIY water planters. All these planters are simple to make, require few tools and the spending of hardly any money.

The beauty of these planters is that once they are in a garden, all the plants get water even if I forget one night or if I am away for a couple of evenings. These planters do vary in shape and size yet all are effective at watering plants.

1. The self-watering container system

For this simple system, you require wooden boxes that have smaller plastic boxes as their base. A small drum is the best thing to use, and it is the drum that controls the amount of water that goes into each box. This planter is simple to make yet effective.

2. Wooden box planter

Cut some wood to form a box (either get someone to do it or do it yourself) and attach it to a wall. Put a liner in the bottom and some piping inside.

3. The Wine bottle system

This planter is for single pots, and you will need to adjust the size of the bottle to the size of the container. For smaller pots change it to a beer bottle or maybe a soda bottle.

Fill the bottle with water up to the neck then place the bottle upside down into the pot. Just make sure the bottleneck is in the soil so it stays upright and the water comes out at the required rate.

4. Hanged upside planter system

Based on the simple concept of hanging four planters upside down and filling them with water via a pipe. Once they are stuck together put in the tube and put plants into each container.

5. Plastic bottle drip system

The clue to this is its name. A plastic bottle is filled with water and left upside down to drip water onto the plants underneath.

Make two holes in the neck, and a further three in one side, fill with water and bury the bottle in the soil.

6. Simple large self-water containers

If you can get hold of large pots (gallon / 5 liter) size cut the bottle in half and grow seedlings inside it. If you fill with plants and place near to your porch, then hardly effort is needed to grow and water your garden.

7. Mini self-watering wick bed

If you only want or only have room for a mini garden a wicking bed is perfect for you. It is impossible to over water or to underwater the plants in any of these beds.

8. A two bucket pot watering system

Putting together is simple, all you need is a couple of buckets of water plus a small cup to provide water to your pots. The buckets are connected to the cup that waters the plants.

9. Foam box self-watering system

All you is a foam box with a lid, plastic piping, and some tape to make this system. Put some holes into the side of the box and put in through three pieces of tubing, then fill with plants.

10. Storage box self-watering system

Just get a few plastic storage boxes from the dollar store, put a few plants into each and put a reservoir of water in place to keep each box watered for a few days at least.

11. DIY sub-irrigated planter

The system relies on you making a homemade sub-irrigated planter using piping. It can be time-consuming though, taking as long as 12 months to complete. You may prefer the other systems as these are quicker and achieve similar results.

12. The Earth box

This a great system to use if you have very little room, It can be used to provide plants with feed or fertilizer as well as water, for indoor and also outdoor use.

13. Self-watering inverted planters

This type of watering system works in the same way as strawberry and tomato planters. In other words, these inverted and hanging planters are self-watering. Simply ideal if you have only limited space for growing anything.

14. Self-watering container

Such containers are easy to use. Just make sure the wick is ready, then insert it once the drain holes have been created. Then put the pipe into place and fill with soil. Finally, the plants and the planter will water the plants by itself.

15. Recycled DIY Air conditioner self-watering planter

The system allows you to recycle and reuse the excess water produced by your air conditioning. I love the aspect of this method, and the good is that it provides more water in warmer weather as the air conditioning is on for longer. The beauty of the system is that all your plants are getting watered because you have the air conditioning on.

So now you have 15 different DIY self-watering planters that you can implement on your home. Do you know another system what was not included in this article?

We love hearing from you, so drop us a line in the comment section.

How to Choose The Best Expandable Garden Hose

January 11, 2019 by Helen Allen Leave a Comment

When it comes to home care and gardening, it is essential to have a good quality hose. The hard part can be deciding which hose would be best for your needs. There are many options to choose from on the market, and it can be hard to see the difference between them at first glance. It can be very tempting to buy the cheapest option available to save money, but this is not always the right choice. There are a few small differences that can significantly affect how long your hose lasts and how easy it is for you to use.

A standard garden hose should last you quite a few years. An average of 5 to 10 years is a normal life for a hose. However, many people end up replacing hoses every year due to rot or cracks because they didn’t know what to look for when purchasing their hose.

In this article, we are going to go through a few different tips on how to make sure you are choosing the right hose for your needs. We will also make sure you know how to buy a hose that is going to last, so you don’t need to buy a new one every year.

How To know Which Hose is Right for You.

Garden Hoses are not one size fits all. When purchasing a new garden hose you will need to consider the size of the are you will be using it for. You also need to keep in mind how you will be using it, where you will be storing it, and of course the limits of your budget. In general, there are specific points you need to consider when looking for a new hose.

Length – Bigger is not always better when it comes to purchasing a new garden hose. it comes in different lengths, 25fy, 50ft, 75ft, and 100ft. While it may be tempting to buy the biggest one to take care of all your needs, this isn’t a wise decision. Large hoses are not only more expensive, but they are heavier and require more space for storage. A longer hose can also mean less water pressure. The best way to figure out the right length of hose for you is to measure from your spigot to the farthest point you will need to water. You need a hose that reaches just beyond that.

Hose Diameter – The bigger the diameter of your hose the more water it can carry. The most common diameters are 3/4 and 5/8 inch. The most common and useful width is 5/8″. This diameter offers a good flow of water and good pressure as well. If the weight of the hose is an issue for you, you may want to consider a smaller hose like a 1/2″ diameter. Lighter weight hoses that are smaller in diameter are suitable for smaller watering jobs, such as deck flowers.

Material – When it comes to what your hose is made of, rubber is the best bet. Rubber is the most durable and long lasting out of all the materials hoses are available in. They withstand the weather better than most, and they are less likely to rupture or crack. The only downside is that they generally carry a higher price tag, and they are a bit heavier than ones made out of the vinyl material. Rubber hoses are a good fit for heavy duty use and are also more likely to withstand the seasons.

Strength – When it comes to figuring out how strong your hose is, you need to look at the burst pressure. This is what indicates how much pressure the hose can withstand before bursting. It is important to take into consideration if you plan to be using sprinklers or spray nozzles. For use with sprinklers or nozzles, it is best to get a hose with 350psi. If you intend to use your hose for pressure washing or other high intensity uses you will need to find a hose with higher psi than that.

Flexibility – When purchasing a new hose you want to be sure that it can flex and bend around corners without kinking or breaking. It is also important that a hose is flexible for when it comes time to store it. Reinforced hoses and rubber hoses tend to be the least likely to kink.

Couplings – Garden hose couplings are the ends that attach to your spigots, and nozzles. You want to make sure that the material the linkages are made of is good quality to ensure that your hose lasts. Stamped metal is usually not the best bet, and you are better off sticking to couplings made out of cut brass.

Now that you know what to look for when buying a hose, I want to show you a few of the options available that I and many others have found to be among the best. For now, I am going to stick with the Expandable garden hoses. These hoses are durable and great all-purpose hoses, they don’t kind or twist, and they store very easily. All in all the flexible garden hose is a gardener’s best friend.

Best Expandable Garden Hose

1. Treeco Expandable Hose

The design of this hose makes it easy to store and resistant to twists and kinks. Even though this model does come with a rack for storage, it can easily collapse and fit into something as small as a bucket to save space. This hose is made out of latex and has a zinc alloy nozzle to prevent rust. To top it all off this hose is leak and burst proof as well. Even though this hose is fairly long at 50 feet, it weighs very little and will not be a problem to pack around when the need arises. The metal sprayer it comes with has eight different settings, making it perfect for any job. These are an all around an excellent quality hose.

2. GrowGreen

This hose is green in color as the name suggests. It comes in 100ft length but has some pretty handy features. Without water in it this hose is 33ft long, but when under pressure it expands to 3 times its original length. It is designed to be kink and tangle-free, this is especially useful when it comes time to store it for the winter. It also comes with an eight setting nozzle and a 12-month warranty to ensure a quality product.

3. Ohuhu Expandable Garden Hose

This hose would be perfect if you are tired of packing around all that heavy hose. This is a shorter hose that has a maximum length of 17ft. It is made with a durable latex interior to ensure durability. This hose would be a good choice if space were a concern as well.

4. Titan Expanding Garden Hose

This hose is perfect for a wide variety of every day uses. If you have an ample space you need to be able to reach across this hose will get it done. It is quite lightweight considering its 150ft length when fully expanded. It is very flexible, yet durable and built to withstand heavy use. This hose doesn’t kink, twist, or tangle, which makes it easier to roll up and makes it last longer as well. This hose comes equipped with solid brass fittings that are crush proof and easy to attach and detach. The 30-day money back guarantee also ensures that you are happy with your purchase.

5. Forever Garden Hose by Flexon

This is another great kink free option to consider when you are looking to purchase your new hose. It features a 5 ply build making it incredibly strong. It also is equipped with crush proof fittings and a Guard-and Grip connector. The Connector itself makes this hose stand out from all the rest, making it effortless to connect and disconnect the hose from any spigot.

All of these hoses mentioned above offer great features to make your gardening experience that much better. There are so many different options available, and with a little research you will surely find what you are looking for. Especially If you take your time and make sure you take all the important points into consideration. Stick to these guidelines and you should have no problem purchasing a good quality hose that works great for your needs, and lasts you through a few gardening seasons. Remember you should not have to replace your garden hose every year if it is of good quality. When you have a good quality garden hose it can make all of your tasks just a little bit simpler, and who doesn’t want a helping hand in an already busy life. You will be amazed when you realize how much difference good quality gardening tools can make.

How to Prune Tomatoes (Step by Step)

January 9, 2019 by David Rheem Leave a Comment

Did you know that tomato is one of the most commonly grown vegetables in the entire world? Well, I thought you should know. The popularity and use of this veggie have also earned it a nickname whereby some people prefer calling it kingpin of the garden.

Anyone can grow tomatoes but what separates a good grower and a “bad” one of the kind of care you employ when growing the crop. There are various services that you need to carry out while the plant is growing and one of them is pruning.

What is pruning?

Pruning of tomato or vegetable refers to the process of getting rid of the large, dead or even unwanted part(s) of the plants. These parts include the branch, the bud, roots, and even the stems.

The primary purpose of pruning vegetables is to create a room or allow the best parts of the plant to grow well to increase or improve the fruitfulness. Note that in some cases, people opt to prune their plants to create a better crescent shape on the plants.

This is essential as it improves the stability of the plant without forgetting its health too. Other benefits that you may reap for pruning your plants include; increase of the quality growth of the pant, and such plants tend to yield healthy fruits as well.

Importance of pruning tomato plants

As we all know, tomatoes tend to grow quite fast, and therefore, pruning helps the plant to increase its production and stability. The growth occurs on the leaves whereby they become broader and stronger after pruning a change which is noticeable within the first two weeks of pruning.

Tomatoes are in two groups which include determinate and indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes usually have thick leaves while indeterminate consists of thin leaves also referred to as vine leaves.

The indeterminate tomatoes grow fast and thus, require more pruning since if the plant exceeds in weight due to the overgrowing leaves, it may easily break on the stem or even drop.

This can cause a considerable loss for the farmer especially if the ground is wet as the wetness tends to damage the tomatoes that touch the ground. Another con of this act is that the vegetables may end up yielding less than anticipates as the branches are not healthy and some may be damaged.

What causes all the damages on the branches?

Ones the branches of the plant drop to the ground, the branch tends to find the nearest support on the ground, and in most cases, this could be weeds such as the grass and other nearby plants. Then the branches of the tomatoes get entangled to the blades of the herbs.

So, the damage occurs when the farmer tries to untangle the vegetables from the grass or other plants. For the safety of your tomato plant and the fruits, pruning is one of the necessary steps that you should not omit in your growing process.

If you don’t have enough time to prune your tomatoes, or if you are not good at it, then I would recommend that you plant the determinate tomatoes as they require less to no pruning.

Alternatively, take your time and learn a few steps on how to successfully prune your tomatoes for better production.

Without further ado, the following are steps to follow when pruning your tomatoes.

1. Know the type of vegetable you are growing

Knowing the group of tomato on your farm is crucial as it guides you to determine how to prune it correctly. Both determinate and indeterminate tomatoes grow differently whereby the determinate grow in full form and usually establish themselves before they increase in bushy form. On the other hand, indeterminate plants require guidance on how to thrive in upright form to enable them to grow accordingly.

Some of the varieties of these two types of tomatoes that you can find in the market include;

Indeterminate class; Big Boy, Beef Master, Black Prince, German queen, and cherry tomatoes to name a few.

Determinate tomatoes; ace 55, Amelia, Better Bush, Biltmore, Heat master and also the Heinz Classic.

2. Know where to prune

Remember not all parts of the tomatoes are supposed to remove and therefore, you need to figure out the parts that require pruning. The growing stems also referred to as suckers are the parts that require pruning.

This is because allowing these parts to grow may slow down the plant considering they need more energy to grow which can only be drained from the rest of the plant.

Tip: Do the pruning after the stems and leaves located below the first yield set of flowers turn yellow.

3. Remove the entire branch of sucker situated below the first flower cluster.

Note that this step applies to all types of tomatoes as it helps to ensure that the nutrients are directly transferred to the fruits and not wasted on the suckers. It also helps the plant to grow and yield better.

Tip: make sure to prune the suckers when they are still young and stable.

For those living in warmer zones and you would like to prune some stems and leaves on the tomatoes, do so once they turn yellow since they are helpful for shielding the plant when they are still green and healthy. But if you live in humid areas, make sure to remove these parts together with the prunes to allow ventilation.

4. Do not touch the thick shoots.

It is advisable that you avoid pruning the thick shoots on the stem to avoid damaging the plant. The full shoot somehow offers support to the plant, and its leaves may also aid in the photosynthesis process. But if you feel like the shoots have to be removed, use the Missouri pruning which involves the removal of the tip of the sucker.

Tip: Make sure to prune your tomatoes all around the summer season to keep the plants healthy.

5. For indeterminate plants leave about four or five trusses for fruit bearing.

The indeterminate plants require being free as much as possible for stability hence the need to leave only the necessary trusses. The most appropriate branches to retain are the ones that grow above the first flower cluster.

Tips: Ensure the vine plants are supported by tying on a solid object to prevent them from falling off ones they start producing fruits.

6. Remove yellow leaves.

As the plant continues to grow, the lower leaves also mature and starts to turn yellow. So, make sure to remove these leaves at this stage to prevent them from absorbing the nutrients required by the other parts of the plant.

7. Top the tomatoes.

Topping the tomatoes especially before the first expected frost, or when the plant grows to a reasonable level helps to increase production at the end of the season. So, ones you prune the suckers, top the plant to ensure all the nutrients get directed to the fruits.

12 Best Dwarf Evergreen Shrubs

January 7, 2019 by Helen Allen Leave a Comment

An evergreen shrub provides your garden with beautiful flowers throughout the year. Making it popular among both landscapers and gardeners alike. The evergreen shrub is hearty, requiring very little maintenance and water.

1. Broadleaf Evergreen

This rounded shrub has gorgeous vivid green foliage and is relatively easy to care. The broadleaf is ideal to be placed in a hedgerow or by itself; adding the perfect touch to your yard. Similar to other Boxus species, they withstand both weather elements and woodland critters like deer. Making them a good fit for those living in areas inhabited by all sorts of creatures.

Commonly Known Name	Boxwood
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	4 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	3 to 4 Feet
Spread Width	3 to 4 Feet
Bloom Season	Early Spring – April

2. Smoldering Shades Of Purple

Thriving in direct sunlight Smoldering Shades Of Purple will enhance your home and increase its property value as well. The stems of this plant are unique in appearance, making them a great addition to any garden. These purple beauties grow quite rapidly and can be tamed down with some trimming. In order to ensure plants have a successful growth period, it’s best to do so during the spring at the first sign of life. Remember those who are more mature should be cut first or they’ll start blooming.

Commonly Known Name	Purple Smoke Bush
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	5 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	3 to 4 Feet
Spread Width	15 Feet

3. Never-Ending Rose

There’s nothing like exquisite Rose Blossoms to brighten up a home! So those of the Never-Ending Rosebush is not only breathtaking but aromatic as well. This plant is just amazing! It requires little to no maintenance and is resilient against pests.

Commonly Known Name	Moss Rose
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	5 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	2 to 4 Feet
Ideal Condition	Partial To Full Sunlight In An Area That’s Well-Drained

4. The Korean Boxwood

Commonly Known Name	Moss Rose
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	5 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	2 to 4 Feet
Ideal Condition	Partial To Full Sunlight In An Area That’s Well-Drained
Bloom Season	Early Spring – April

Perfect for those living in areas with harsh winter weather the Korean Boxwood is a hearty plant that will even survive sleet and snow. They require very little maintenance and pruning. Making this Boxwood ideal for those with limited free time to spend gardening.

5. Winter Daphne

Fill your home with the beautifully fragrant flowers of the Winter Daphne. Known for their fragrant pink blossoms this plant emits a wonderful scent from the area in which it is planted.

Commonly Known Name	Winter Daphne
Plant Species	Thymelaeaceae
Living Zones	7 – 9 Feet

6. Chinese Holly

The Chinese Holly is a popular Broadleaf Evergreen among the gardening community for its incredible green foliage. These plants are guaranteed to turn your landscape into a work of art while adding a unique touch.

Commonly Known Name	Chinese Holly
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	5 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	7 – 10 Feet
Spread Width	5 – 8 Feet
Bloom Season	Early Spring, April – May

7. Green & White Charmer

A plant that thrives all year long; the Green & White Charmer looks spectacular placed in front of taller foliage. It is a gorgeous bush which works great in your garden border or the corners of a lawn. Providing just the right accent while enhancing the beauty of a home.

Commonly Known Name	Green & White Charmer
Living Zones	5 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	3 Feet
Spread Width	5 Feet
Ideal Condition	Partial To Full Sunlight In An Area That’s Well-Drained
Bloom Season	Early Spring – April

8. Red-Osier Dogwood

Commonly Known Name	Red-Osier Dogwood
Plant Species	Cornus sericea
Living Zones	2 – 8 Feet
Growth Height	10 Feet
Spread Width	5 – 8 Feet
Bloom Season	Early Spring, April – May

Brightening up your yard during any season the Red-Osier Dogwood is an attractive shrub that is easy to care for. Requiring minimum trimming in the springtime to promote healthy growth ideal for those with a busy schedule. This Dogwood variety has impressive green and white foliage with purple leaves. Making it a breath-taking addition to any part of your yard.

9. Blue Prince Holly

This is my all-time favorite types of Holly, especially with its magnificent bluish-green foliage. It’s a great plant to use as a wall-border or near the side of your house.

Commonly Known Name	Blue Prince Holly
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	4 – 7 Feet
Growth Height	9 – 12 Feet
Spread Width	8 – 12 Feet
Bloom Season	Early Spring, April – May

10. Japanese skimmia

These noteworthy shrubs compliment a yard quite nicely. With their fragrant blossoms and glossy bright green leaves, your home will stand out from the rest. However, to ensure pollination, you’re better off planting at least two female Japanese Skimmias and a male.

Commonly Known Name	Japanese Skimmia
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	7 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	3 – 6 Feet
Spread Width	3 – 6 Feet
Ideal Conditions	Full To Partial Shade; In An Area, That’s Well Drained

11. Blue Star Juniper

This exquisite Juniper is a truly unique addition to any home! Though somewhat costly the Blue Star shines brighter than the rest. Unlike other plants, these change color according to the season. Going from a vibrant blue during warmer months and turning a shimmering silver in the winter.

Commonly Known Name	Blue Star Juniper
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	4 – 9 Feet
Growth Height	16 inches
Spread Width	3 Feet
Ideal Conditions	Full To Partial Shade; In An Area, That’s Well Drained

12. Rhododendron

A beautiful flowering plant which adds the perfect touch to your garden; Rhododendrons are both amazing to view and easy to take care of, Making them a valuable asset amongst gardeners worldwide.

Commonly Known Name	Rhododendron
Plant Species	Broadleaf Evergreen
Living Zones	5 – 8 Feet
Growth Height	2 – 2 1/2 Feet
Spread Width	2 – 2 1/2 Feet
Bloom Season	Early Spring, April – May

Top 38 Beautiful Yellow Flowers that you can plant on your Garden

January 4, 2019 by Helen Allen Leave a Comment

Planting yellow flowers is like bringing the sun into your yard! I know, my sunflowers beamed down at me in summer. The softness of yellow contrasts with the fiery heat of red and orange flowers and a yellow flower fosters an atmosphere of peace and serenity, ideal for anyone who needs to relax. Some are perennials, which grow back year after year, but others may be annuals, which die in fall and need replacement. I have given you the scientific name for the sake of accuracy, but I always include the famous name. You won’t need to remember the scientific name, but it might be helpful to you when purchasing flowers.

I have selected a range of plants suitable for an ordinary urban garden set near a house of average size. We have chosen several of the best for you to choose for your gardens.

If you wonder why I left some flowers out of the list, it is because they are difficult to cultivate. In this article, I’ve included the top beautiful yellow flowers that are easier to plant in your garden.

1. Crocus angustifolius (yellow crocus)

These are hardy, fragrant flower that blossoms in early spring. Its yellow interior contrasts with its striped or bronze exterior. Plant the crocus corms in fall in most soils [except boggy/waterlogged ones] sit back and wait for spring. These plants thrive even if there are trees nearby, and snow is no problem for them. After snowdrops, their arrival is a harbinger of spring.

2. Narcissus (Daffodils)

These plants evolved to face cold spring conditions, and so they are fully hardy.

3. Hellebores

These perennial plants die back in winter and return in spring, giving a display of spring flowers. Old leaves may survive over winter, so cut them off before new leaf growth starts. This plant prefers semi-shade and a moist, well-draining soil. It copes well in the presence of trees

4. Yellow tulips

Bulbs planted in early fall in moist well-drained soil produce beautiful blossoms in late spring. Tulips enjoy the warmth. These flowers can be planted in pots or beds.

5. Yellow honeysuckle (Lonicera flava)

A flowering vine that bears flowers in mid-spring. Cultivate it against a supporting wall, but avoid damp, cold soil and give it full sun.

6. Yellow mallow (Pavonia praemorsa)

It gives long-term color throughout the year, particularly in spring and fall. It enjoys full sun or partial shade and needs dry soils and a sunny site. However, when mallow is in full growth water well, but after growth has slowed down return to the regular watering regime.

7. Ranunculus lingua

Bulbs planted in the winter will flower in early to mid spring and give golden-yellow flowers.

8. Primrose (Blairside Yellow)

This attractive flower does not like excessive heat and overly dry conditions. If grown in pots, keep the soil moist to prevent aphids from damaging the roots.

9. Viola (wittrockiana)

A kind of a pansy. This species has a range of varieties in several different colors. It enjoys sun or semi-shade and needs moist, well-drained soil. This is a spring flower, but some varieties flower late instead. Pansies should be planted about 9 inches to 12 inches apart 23-30 centimeters. They are hardy plants that can tolerate some cold weather.

10. Acacia dealbata

This yellow-flowered shrub adds much to the spring garden. It flowers from late winter through into spring.

11. Yellow Maroon (Antirrhinum antirinca)

Also known as Snapdragon. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and this yellow flower with maroon flecks will flower from June to late summer. It is ideal for borders, containers, and pots on patios.

12. Iris crocea

Here is a dazzling range of Irises available, and they suit a wide range of garden habitats, such as rockeries, borders, woodlands, bog gardens, alpine houses, and containers. Iris crocea should be bought from a garden center and planted directly into the ground but be aware, it has a spreading habit and will crop up in other parts of the garden.

13. Power Daisy Yellow (Calendula)

Commonly called marigold grows well in most kinds of soil and does not require much attention. It is ideal for planting in large drifts in your garden. Plant it with flowers of other colors to provide rich variety.

14. Sunflower (Helianthus)

Plant in spring for late summer color. If you are using pots, ensure that they are deep enough to hold a tall flower. I fasten my sunflowers to a trellis with twine to keep them steady. Water well, especially in hot weather, but don’t flood the pot.

15. Yellow Rose (Rose’Arthur Bell’)

It has an attractive flower and a pleasant scent.

16. Dahlias

These are several yellow varieties of this versatile flower. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil. Deadhead when necessary for continual flower growth.

17. Golden Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha)

This plant is native to the southwest USA, and therefore it benefits from dry conditions. Keep the soil moist, but don’t over-fertilize. You will get a display of glorious, golden-yellow flowers.

18. Thousand Flowers (Achillea millefolium)

In June to August, it blooms with a mass of tiny flower heads. Moreover, it is a perennial so it will grow back again yearly, and it will form large clusters that expand with time. It has the advantage of being drought tolerant. It also attracts butterflies so that you may get some lovely winged visitors to your garden.

19. Begonia ‘Can-can’

This plant reaches three feet tall and produces single yellow flowers eight inches (20 cm) across. It prefers a slightly acidic soil (pH 6.5), but many garden soils are of this level.

20. Dianthus (Bookham Fancy)

This flower is a form of carnation with bright yellow double flowers. Plant in an open, sunny position with well-drained soil for summer display. The soil should be slightly alkaline so you may have to test its pH [where it is on the acid-alkali scale] This is an easy task if you buy a pH kit. If the pH is below 7 add a bit of lime. You won’t need much.

21. Hibiscus (Yellow Double)

This warmth-loving plant needs a light, loamy soil and several hours of sunlight daily. Feed well for best results. Some growers water with warm water in colder weather. You get large, beautiful flowers that bring a tropical touch to your garden.

22. Lily (Double Sundew)

This plant requires regular soil and gives five to seven flowers in summer. Water well, but not to excess in the growing season.

23: Paeonia Yellow Crown (Peony)

These are flowers that are bright and yellow. It prefers a light, well-drained soil and like full sun.

24. Potentilla fruticosa

A small shrub that is ideal for hedges or to give some substance to a border. All potentilla plants like full sun and well-drained soil. Potentilla produces clusters of yellow flowers from late Spring to the end of summer.

25. Rhigozum obovatum

Known as the Karoo, this South African desert shrub blooms in late spring through into summer. Very thorny, it makes an excellent hedge and can thrive on very little water.

26. Calla Lily (Zantdeschia)

The yellow varieties are tender and so need a warm place. They are easy to grow and enjoy regular soil. Water well during the flowering season in summer. If you cut for display ensure that you do not get the sap onto exposed skin, as it is an irritant.

27. Zinnia soleado

Golden flowers bloom from midsummer to fall. It needs a sunny position and fertile, well-drained soil. Deadhead frequently for continued flowering.

28. Bulbine frutescens

This flower is capable of flowering year round in the right conditions. It has small, yellow flowers. The plant grows in well-drained neutral to slightly alkaline, soil and likes a sunny position.

29. Craspedia globosa

A hardy plant that is easy to grow. Globe-shaped yellow flower heads last from summer through to fall. It likes a fertile, well-drained soil.

30. Golden Chalice(Chrysanthemum)

This beautiful plant produces a single yellow flower in Fall. Exhibitors consider it suitable for showing, but as it is frost tender grow in a warm, sheltered place, maybe a glass house.

31. Mimosa guttatus

This frost-tender plant requires a warm position and a moist, well-drained soil. It is a plant of partial shade. There is a cluster of small, yellow flowers in Fall.

32. Solidago (Golden Wings)

These produce bright yellow flowers in early fall. Most varieties of goldenrod tolerate full sun or shade and range of soils.

33. Solidago virgaurea

A plant requiring some shade and moist soil. It produces a cluster of yellow flowers and is said to be suitable for a rockery or alpine house.

34. Ranunculus bullata

This is a late-flowering relation of the buttercup. Bulbs will give late, golden cover in a flower bed. It is easy to grow.

35. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida)

The common name comes from the fact that its yellow flowers surround a black center. It can reach two feet in height or more, and it thrives in full sun or shade. Coming from the hills of South Africa it does not enjoy too much wetness, so it prefers moist soil.

36. Compass Plant(Sulphinium laciniatum )

This plant can reach eight feet in height and live in rich, moist soil.

37. Yellow Water Lily (Nuphar lutea)

This plant needs water two to five meters deep. Plant in a pot containing aquatic compost and sink in the pond. It will give yellow flowers from late winter to early summer.

38. Iris pseudacorus

This plant needs a boggy, acid soil, and will give yellow flowers in summer. It is ideal for that wet area that is hard to grow anything in. If you want to create a bog garden, this is a beneficial plant.

These flowers will make a delightful contribution to the rich variety of your garden.

8 Large Outdoor Planters Ideas for Plants and Trees

December 31, 2018 by Helen Allen Leave a Comment

Gardening is a technique that runs in my family. Since I was a young girl, my mother often told stories while she gardened. My brother and I would play in the dirt and listen intently to the stories she told of her childhood. As we became older, she would require our help. My brother disliked assisting my mother but I myself enjoyed it very much. Over time, I became skilled in potting plants. I have done many things with plants and trees in my many years of practice. Through time, I have learned to be inspired by my surroundings and creative with the things I already have to make the characteristics of my garden look unique. Here are a few of those in detail.

1. Re-purpose old ladder

You will need that rusty old ladder that you don’t use anymore. If it is an old wooden ladder, you may choose to leave it as-is for a rustic look or stain it for a more modern approach. If it is a metal ladder, you may want to add a fresh coat of paint for a more farmhouse or cottage type look. Then, you can set it up in your garden as a centerpiece or an accent piece. Spruce it up by adding some flower pots and vines.

2. Birdbath garden

If you’re like me, you have an old birdbath in your garden that rarely stays full of nice clean water, and the birds don’t use it. Retrieve that birdbath and put a fresh coat of paint on it! Then you will need some potting soil and a shallow-rooted annual flower. Spread the soil out in the birdbath and dig 2-3 inch holes in the soil to plant your flowers. The flowers will return every year! (If you are worried about the frost, cover the birdbath over with plastic or a tarp in the winter months.)

3. Tire Garden

If you have some old tires laying around your yard, this is the project for you! Grab at least 2-3 old tires. Spray-paint them your favorite garden colors. Then, once they are dry, stack them on top of one another. Stack them at least 2-3 tires high. Pour some planting soil in the hole and plant some flowers or trees! If you are planting flowers, pour the potting soil to the near top of the tires and then plant the flowers. If you are planting a tree, only pour enough soil to fill about 1/3 of the way.

4. Strainer plant

Grab a metal strainer from your kitchen and give it a quick spray paint if it needs it! You will need a drill, some small chain links (at least 10 foot in length), 2 square foot of plastic, shallow-rooted plants, and potting soil. Drill four holes in the strainer – evenly spread apart. Connect the chains through the holes and join then at the center. Then, lay your plastic down in the strainer and poke five or six small holes in the bottom for drainage. Then fill the strainer with potting soil and plant your flowers. Hold the chain at the center and hang your pot from your porch for a great rustic look!

5. Classic wheel barrel garden

This is a classic and still looks amazing in your yard! The steps are easy. Drill a few drain holes in the bottom of the wheel barrel and fill it with planting soil. Then plant your flowers! I love to use flowers that tend to overlap. It gives the wheel barrel even more appeal!

6. Tree stump

Do you have a tree stump in your yard that you’re just dying to do something with? Dig the center out of the stump, pour in some soil, and plant some flowers to give the stump some pizazz!

7. Desk garden

Do you have an old wooden desk that’s just taking up space in your attic? Pull it down and give it a fresh coat of paint (or stain it). Then pull at the draws out, drill a few drain holes, and fill the drawers with potting soil and flowers! This idea is perfect for a cottage!

8. Makeshift pots

One thing I love to do is make makeshift pots. You can do this is nearly anything you can find! For example, you can use rain boots to build a plant. Drill a few drain holes in the bottom of the boot and fill the boot with potting soil and flowers. This procedure can also be done with purses, cinderblocks, shoes, gloves (no need for drain holes in these!), bags, carts, cans, jars, and more! The list goes on forever and allows you to get creative.

Many of these things allow you to recycle old and retired items from your house and garden. You can get creative and adventurous and use many other things that aren’t listed here. Looking for new things to create planters out of is an exciting activity. The ideas are endless and can help you keep your treasured items around for a little bit longer. Make sure that you keep your plants well watered, especially in the dry months (May-August).

On the other hand, make sure that your planters have drain holes in them that allow excess water to drain during the wet seasons (February – April). Again, make sure to cover your plants up during the cold months to avoid the frost (December – January). Moreover, remember to make your garden unique to you!