Scented Geraniums

I have had a lot of request for information on "scented geraniums" they make for a wide and interesting subject indeed.
In their native habitat of 'The Cape of Good Hope' they are perennial's, but in most parts of the US they are grown as annuals or tender perennials.

The leaf texture of the SG can be smooth, sticky or velvety. The back of the leaf is what releases the scent for which each geranium is named.

They are well suited for growing in container's but do very well in the ground also. They thrive in sunny locations and need evenly moist soil, and they do much better from rooted cuttings than from seed.
It's a good idea to water several hours before you plan to take cuttings.

While there are well over 100 varieties of the SG , for culinary use the rose, lemon and mint are most in demand.

They do attract some pest and careful attention is required if you wish to have healthy and thriving plants. Caterpillar's, aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies are just a few of the things you may find having lunch.

You can easily control the caterpillars by lifting off and placing some-place else.

I always grow an extra small patch of parsley for them to feed on.....they will turn into beautiful butterflies you know, so please never kill them.

The other pest you can wash away with diluted alc0hol and a Qtip.
A good insecticidal soap will work also.

If you need a good book about these lovely plants:

"Knowing, Growing and Enjoying Scented Geraniums" (by) Jim Becker and Faye
Brawner.

Happy Gardening.....

Bea Kunz

http://www.sagehillfarmsandvintagestore.com

April Do's In the Garden

April is such an awesome month, we are all so anxious to get started in the garden and mother nature is just as anxious to hold us back! I suppose because she knows her work isn't finished to put all things in place for good and abundant growing. It can really be a lesson in patience......

There are many things we can do in April that will help move things along rapidly when we do get the final go-ahead.

We can start pre-paring our soil for planting providing it isn't too wet....never work your soil when it's wet, it isn't a good thing for many reasons. This is a great time to get the weed problem under control if you have them. One good way to avoid that problem is to grow in raised beds. Another benefit is it gives your garden very good drainage.

This is a good time to lay out new locations, build beds, move plants to other locations, and do some snipping and pruning of certain things. Also time to sew seeds in transplant trays for later planting.

Another must have project is to start a compost pile if you don't have one.
It's never too late to do this......it's the best fertilizer you can find anywhere,
and of course if your growing by organic methods, compost is black gold!

I think April is my favorite month in the garden....not because it's the most beautiful time but because the options are so many......just dream it and you can do it !
I would love to hear from you and know what you are planning for your garden this spring.
We have added three new items for certain.....garlic, lavender and blueberrie's.

Sooooo if you are in our part of the country...please feel free to stop by and say hi.....we are most always home!

(Do you Know:) Oregano packs 42 times more antioxidents than an apple.

Eat a well balanced diet and don't get hung up on the paticulars. A variety of produce and whole grains and you'll get a good mix of nutrients.

Have an "Awesome April"......................

Bea Kunz/Sage Hill Farms

http://www.sagehillfarmsandvintagestore.com