There are few things that gardeners can't bear to see upon revisiting a recently planted bed of flowers: an invasion of weeds, or even worse, the absence of beautiful petals. But frustration will soon be a thing of the past with these easy tips, guaranteed to help you repel those common gardening issues.
Jamie Durie, horticulturist and host of "Outback Nation" visited TODAY Wednesday to tackle all of your growing concerns.
Q: Can you suggest some natural solutions to fight weeds?
Go organic if you can! Don't apply too many chemicals. Try the natural weed killer recipes below. Spray the mixture on your weeds and they should soon curl up and die.
Recipe 1
Mix four cups of salt in one gallon of water. Put the solution in a spray bottle and use on weeds.
Recipe 2
Mix equal parts of vinegar, cheap gin, lemon juice and water. Put the solution in a spray bottle and use on weeds.
Q: What advice can you offer to deter animals without harming them?
Look for plants that either discourage animals or taste bad to them. They'll be less likely to nibble next time.
Fish fertilizer is another easy fix — the smell deters animals like gophers and rabbits, but will still serve as a natural, organic fertilizer in your garden. Another option is to spray plants with cayenne pepper and water to prevent dogs from urinating on the area. Soapy water will also work!
Keep bunnies out by planting new greenery into a mesh bucket made of chicken wire — it will be partially planted in the soil, making it more difficult for animals to access.
Q: Is there any difference between indoor and outdoor fruits and vegetables?
Plant life in a greenhouse will thrive if you use organic potting soils. These nutrients are essential to the growth of new plants.
Grape vines, spinach, kale and eggplants will all grow in a greenhouse. Remember to bring them out after the cold season has passed.
Plants have different needs (amount of light, water and plant groupings) and this traditionally separates an indoor plant from an outdoor one. But Durie says there's really no such thing, we just grow them in safer places to improve lifespan.
Use different size plants to layer your garden and create "shelters" for plants that require more or less sunlight. Be aware of the sun's angle throughout the day to make sure this shelter is adequately functioning.