I wanted to do something a little different. So instead of adding these images to today's entry I am giving you a picture insert entry. A bonus, if you may... Below are a few pictures I snapped and zoomed in on to show you a close up of things I've been talking about lately and I'll be adding some tips on how not to do what I've done.
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| Real "grown up" carrots leaves. The straight leaves are the originals from the seed. Once you've hit the second step of germinating a seed you'll see "true leaves" that means you can start thinning out some of the extra's that haven't made it to that point. Don't wait too long or your plants won't grow at the proper rate. Remember my "slow thumb". |
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| What happens when the newspaper moves? When setting up raised beds on a grassy or organic piece of land you should put down newspaper or cardboard to stifle what will be considered weeds. Be careful not to move that paper when filling you beds or you'll get this... grass growing up through 6 inches of compost to invade your bed. It's impossible to get rid of and a hell of a task to redo the whole thing. Oh and we have a major infestation of earwig babies in there. I guess since it was left untouched the mommies found it to be a perfect place to lay. If you fill your boxes early make sure to cover them with tarp so as to deter pests from making homes and nests. |
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| Patch Market- as you can see the topsy turvy is on a 7 foot hook. It was impossible to get it there because of the weight. Make sure you have a fresh adjustable hook when hanging containers but if you are hanging strawberries (even in a smaller basket) do hang them high. Mine started to flourish once the sun was hitting them at a higher level. |
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| Holes in the Cherry Belle radish leaves. Some type of insect was eating the leaves. I sprayed with detergent and baking soda and haven't seen any new holes so hopefully these plants will make it through the small chomping. |
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| The small white square on the lantern is the Predalure. It smells like mint and blends right in. I haven't and didn't see any ladybugs today but I'm hoping that by tomorrow it'll have attracted some pest eaters. Great deal, two for $7. |
