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Hens and chicks

Hens and chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) are succulent plants that are low-growing perennials that stay close to the ground as they self-propagate, making them good groundcover plants. These succulents may be known for their hardiness, but it’s worth keeping these tips in mind.

Choose a location with full sun. As outdoor succulents, hens and chicks need at least six hours of full sun every day. Adequate sunlight will promote colorful foliage and the propagation of chicks.
Plant hens and chicks in sandy soil. Hens and chicks do best in rocky, sandy places, making them ideal for rock gardens. They also do well in flower beds with well-draining soil.
Use clay pots. If you choose to grow hens and chicks succulents in a pot, choose a clay pot and potting mix specifically formulated for succulents and cactus plants.
Water your plants rarely. These drought-tolerant plants need very little water once they’re mature and can go weeks without watering. Once they’re established, water your hens and chicks only when the surrounding soil dries out—typically once a week in warm climates.

Growing hens and chicks is easy. The plants are readily available in most nurseries, by following the steps above you can create a beautiful succulent garden.

Ionantha Red/Pink Air Plant

These air plants are absolutely “blushingly” beautiful as they have touches of red and pink which is commonly called “blushing.” These are prone to blooming as well so they are a real show off and perfect for blooming special plant lovers.

The ionantha is a mesic variety of the Tillandsia genus, meaning it’s much more suited to a tropical environment with a high temperature and humidity.

As with all Air Plants, they’re happiest in open terrariums and larger containers with plenty of airflow, but this species can grow in a closed environment with the right care.

Ionantha is one of the most popular air plants. It is often the first Tillandsia in a beginner’s collection. This is because these grow very easily and also readily produce pups. You will often see these form into clumps of 3-5 plants. These air plants can withstand a variety of conditions, but prefer brighter light levels and routine watering’s. This is one of the air plants that can either be misted, or submerged in water.

Our shop Printhousedesign1 on Etsy will be adding these beautiful air plants this spring.

Propagating Wandering Jew

Propagating Wandering Jew in Water is super easy! Follow the given instructions and decorate your home with this stunning vine.

Rooting Wandering Jew Cuttings in Water

The resilient Tradescantia will root from almost any cutting, whether placed in water or in soil. So, starting a wandering Jew in water is a good project for anyone, including children and gardening beginners.You should see new roots begin to emerge within a week or so. After about two weeks in water or when the new roots are a few inches long, plant your cuttings in an all-purpose potting mix, and care for them by watering weekly.

Cut off one of the drooping stems from a houseplant. A cutting of 6 inches is easier to handle than a smaller one, but any length is likely to root as long as you snip just above a leaf or leaf node. That’s where the plant will push new roots. Clip off leaves from the bottom few inches of the cutting, then put the cutting in a jar or glass filled with water. The stem is submerged in water while the leaves are out of the water. It’s fun to use a clear glass or jars to see the roots growing

Put the glass on a windowsill out of direct sunlight. Replace the water every few days, checking for roots. You won’t have to wait too long. Once the roots appear and grow to several inches, they are ready to plant in potting soil.

How to grow Echinacea

These hardy perennial plants are broadly referred to as Coneflowers. They are highly attractive to pollinators and make excellent cut flowers. They look spectacular in mass plantings.

Timing

Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before planting out. If started indoors in late winter, Echinacea may bloom in the first year. It can also be direct sown in early spring or early fall. Germination should occur in 10-21 days.

Starting

Sow seeds shallowly at only 3mm (1/8″) deep. If starting indoors, provide total darkness and a soil temperature of 21-25°C (70-75°F). Once sprouts appear, provide bright indirect light ( near the window ). When sprouts are large enough to move outdoors, plant in a sunny location.

Growing

Space plants at 30-38cm (12-15″) apart in any average, well drained, slightly acidic soil. Water plants regularly for best results, keeping the leaves as dry as possible. Leave seed heads intact over winter to feed birds and provide shelter for beneficial insects.

Using Orange peels in the garden

Gardens thrive off of the items we may otherwise be inclined to throw away, making them even more frugal and affordable to enjoy. Orange peels are no exception when it comes to household scraps you can use in your garden. Below are a few ways to use orange peel this garden season.

Make your own biting bug and insect repellent.

If mosquitoes and other biting bugs are an issue, orange peels can help.You can place orange peels around the garden while you work to keep these insects away, or just try rubbing an orange peel on your clothing. Some of the pests that orange peels can help repel include: aphids, slugs, mosquitoes, and biting flies.

Adding peels to your soil. Orange peels can be dried and grounded and used to enrich your soil.Some plants thrive off of acidic soil. If you are planting a perennial that needs acidity in the soil, orange peels may be able to help. Marigold, Nasturtium, Petunia, Zinnia and herbs such as; Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme. Make your own budget friendly fertilizer.

Did you know that orange peels are chock full of nitrogen? Nitrogen is essential to good fertilizer.When your soil needs a boost, you can add in ground up orange peels. The peels will release the nitrogen and the result is nutrient rich soil your plants will love.

Bugs aren’t the only things that don’t like the smell of citrus. Shred up your peels and sprinkle them on the top of the garden or containers that you don’t want your dog or cats going near. This is a great way to get your paw friends away from your houseplants or plants on the patio.