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Showing posts with label gardens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gardens. Show all posts

Monday, January 9, 2023

Anatomy of a Shovel - Not all shovels were created equally!

A shovel, it seems simple enough, it has been around since the neolithic era and earlier, and at that time consisted of a large animal's scapula (shoulder blade). And although no one really likes to do it, there are times when it is necessary. In fact, there are more than one type of shovel. And the materials used and the shape of the shovel determine the job at hand. Shovels do break and you may find that disappointing when your shovel breaks in the middle of a project.

Not all shovels were created equally, in fact here are just a couple of examples of shovel types:
A Closer Look at Shovels - Not All Shovels are Created Equally! 
Whether you are digging a garden, tackling a new landscaping project, or just doing some general yard work, it is important to have the right tools for the job. In this case, we’re talking about shovels. Sure, all shovels look pretty much the same, but not all shovels were created equally. Let’s take a closer look at what makes a great shovel and why it’s worth investing in one that suits your needs. 

Golden Shovels

Types of Shovels 
The first thing to understand is that there are different types of shovels and each type has its own purpose. For example, spades are smaller versions of shovels and they are best suited for small jobs such as planting flowers or vegetables in a garden bed. On the other hand, larger shovels like square-pointed and drain spades can be used for more heavy-duty tasks like digging trenches or moving large amounts of soil. 

Materials Used in Shovel Construction 
The materials used to make a shovel can also vary widely depending on the intended use. Gardeners may find that lightweight aluminum models with plastic handles are better suited for their needs while those working on construction sites may prefer heavier steel models with fiberglass handles for extra durability and strength. Of course, there are also wooden-handled options available that provide excellent grip and comfort when using them for extended periods of time. 

Choosing the Right Shovel 
No matter what type of job you need to do, it is important to choose the right tool for the job – including choosing the right kind of shovel! Consider your intended use and then weigh up the pros and cons of each type before making your decision. Pay attention to details such as handle length and material as these can make all the difference between an easy job and one that is more difficult than necessary!  Finally, don’t forget to look after your shovel by cleaning it regularly with warm water and drying it off before putting it away so that it will last longer.  
                                                 
Investing in a good-quality shovel can save you time and effort when tackling any gardening or landscaping projects around your home or business property. By understanding different types of shovels, weighing up materials used in construction, and selecting one that is suitable for your needs; you can ensure that you get maximum use out of your new tool! So don't settle for just any old shovel - find one that will suit your specific needs today!




Monday, November 21, 2022

New Year's Resolutions for your 2023 Garden

Some gardeners may resolve to pay more attention to their garden in 2023, some have chosen associated themes to incorporate into their gardens but as Oprah Winfrey says: "Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right."


Garden goals


Check out these fun and uplifting ideas for your 2023 garden include:
  1. Share your knowledge: Stay open to helping and educating others that show interest in learning how to garden or grow better at gardening.
  2. Give the gift of plants: Plants are the gifts that keep on giving. If cared for correctly plants can last months and even years.  Great for birthdays, holidays or mid-day pick me up for that special someone.
  3. Buy local by checking out your local farmer's markets: USDA's Farmers Market Directory is a great resource for finding your local farmer's market. Nurseries and cooperatives of all types attend farmer's markets throughout the US. Also available at local farmer's markets tends to be other like-minded individuals passionate about gardening and horticulture techniques, a great place for networking and gathering ideas.
  4. Slow down and take it easy: Your garden can be an excellent source of grounding and meditation for some. Release yourself from the day to day hustle and spend some quality time doing what you enjoy.
  5. Find inspiration online: Gardeners and horticulturists around the globe are creating inspirational and expressive gardens. Whether your garden is for looks or for food and healing properties, explore, indulge and grow your garden. Some of my favorite websites for new ideas are Organic Gardening Magazine (also a well-circulated magazine), Southern Homes & Gardens,  Southern Living, Master Gardener's of Orange County, CA, How to Garden Advice, and of course the Seed Savers Exchange.
  6. Grow your own: Herbs, Fruits and/or Vegetables. They make great gifts and they can be a great addition to your current food supply. I still remember the sweet and fragrant, ripe tomatoes from my grandma's garden. They were so juicy and delicious that quite simply, a tomato sandwich was all it needed to be. Or just eaten by itself with a sprinkle of sea salt. My goodness, and the fresh raspberries and strawberries! I could never figure out why the supermarket's produce tasted so bland, well now I know.
  7. Try composting for a new addition to your garden, make your own nutritious soil with the scraps from your kitchen. Who would have thought? More details on composting.


    Best wishes to you on a prosperous and delightful garden this year!

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Top Gardens and Sustainable Places to Visit in Southern California


I am so amazed by the amount of dedication and creativity the people put into things. There is truly an infinite amount of creation and exploration to be done in this life, where does sleep come in? Here are some of my top ten gardens I would like to explore in California. I would love to hear others experiences, if you have been there or have found some great gardens or creative sustainable solution oriented farms that I have not mentioned.


Located in: Modjeska Canyon, CA
Guided tours, natural history museum, children's garden, hiking, and a wildlife sanctuary.





Located in: Hesperia, CA
Alternative architecture workshops including Adobe housing, Eco-Dome's, children's field trips, Earth One Vaulted House Design, Lunar and Planetary Architecture Designs, and much more.



Located in: Claremont, CA
Garden walking club, native plant workshops, and celebrations, Luminaria Nights (illuminated evenings in CA native gardens) this looks great, please let me know if anyone has been to this. All kinds of events including Bird Fest, Wildflower Shows, Art in the Garden, Yoga and Tai Chi in the Garden, workshops, and so much more.


Located in: Encinitas, CA
Four miles of garden trails, nation's largest bamboo collection, a variety of microclimates, children's classes, children's birthday parties, special event rental & weddings, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts events, garden sculpture, bird watching, Annual Insect Festival, and even a Christmas event called The Garden of Lights with snow!


Located in: Santa Barbara, CA
Native plants, Remote Access Weather Station, Guided and Self-Guided Tours of Garden History and The Oaks of California, Active Member of the Center for Plant Conservation. Classes on Gardening under Oaks, The Fascinating Eco-System of Wetlands, Meet the Spring Plant Family, and much more.



Located in: Arcadia, CA
Art in the Garden, Meyberg Waterfall, a Garden for All Seasons, Garden Environments similar to Africa, Australia, and the Americas, and Queen Anne Cottage at Baldwin Lake. Fun, interactive, and a complete classroom outdoors, all tucked near the San Gabriel Mountains. Home of the LA Garden Show.


Located in: Corona Del Mar, CA
2.2 Acre Horticultural Retreat, Gardens, Patios, and Conservatories linked together by wide brick walkways. Flower beds, bubbling fountains, and a library with a specialized research center devoted to the study of the Southwest.



Located in: San Diego, CA

Some activities may include: 
  • Desert Excursions
  • Outstanding Historical and Cultural Preserve
  • New Years Resolution walks up Alcoholics Pass
  • Wi-Fi Service within 150 feet of the Ranger's Office
  • Home of the Big Horn Sheep
  • Wildflower and Cactus Displays
  • Stargazing
  • Bird Basics
  • Hike to Native American Village
  • Cave Exploring
  • and more


Located in: La Canada Flintridge
Descanso has been described as "a garden of gardens," each garden has its own special charm. Cafe & Gift Shop, Enchanted Railroad, The Historic E. Manchester Boddy House, Sturt Haaga Gallery, Horticultural and Garden Programs, Children and Family Events, Lifestyle and Wellness Programs, Facility Rental for Weddings and Events, and much more. Descanso Gardens also offers assistance with your horticulture problems, just email them.



Located in: Eastern San Diego, CA
Part of Cedar Creek Falls, 80 ft, Plunge Pool, About 4.5-mile Hike Round Trip





Locate in: Chula Vista (San Diego), CA
The Chula Vista Nature Center is a living, breathing, flapping, buzzing, and splashing home to the unique animals and plants of Southern California. 6 miles south of downtown San Diego, the Nature Center sits on the 316-acre Sweetwater Marsh National Refuge. Endangered species breeding and release program. Shark, Ray, Turtle and Eagle interaction. Composting Workshops, Children's Day Camp, Arts & Crafts, Docent Training, Kayak San Diego Bay, Overnight Adventures, Discovery Tours, Scouting Programs, and Teen Biologist Career Programs. Wow!