"It's been a long, hot summer but now the cooler weather is finally here and plants are getting ready for their winter 'rest.' In the fall, plants are not growing leaves, allowing them to put more energy into root production. This makes fall the perfect time to get trees, shrubs and perennials established!" - Joyce Larson [...]
While true banana plants are far too large for any home, the Dwarf Musa Banana Plant - which grows up to six feet tall - is the perfect size for anyone looking for a unique, special tropical plant to spice up their decor or landscape. Banana plants thrive best in a humid, bright and spacious atmosphere, [...]
Onions: Place these in a mesh bag, a bushel basket, or a cardboard box with holes punched in it. Paul and Joyce use plastic crates with plenty of holes in them. Store at 35-40 degrees F in a dark place that won’t freeze. The Larsons grew garlic, red onions and yellow onions. Red onions don’t store [...]
A Letter from Paul: "While many folks are focused on getting those fall projects done, we wanted to let you know that Sprucedale Gardens will once again have a great selection of freshly cut Christmas trees this year. After taking one year off, we will have our fresh trees on display right after Thanksgiving, along with [...]
"There was a great honey harvest this year at Sprucedale Gardens," said Paul Larson. "We expect to have plenty of honey available for sale!" I documented the process as Paul filled this year's first jar of raw, natural honey! Step One: Take frame of honey off of the hive. Step Two: Cut off the wax cap. [...]
Yes, you'll enjoy these winter-hardy mums year after year! Yellow Spoon Lavender Daisy Red Daisy These mums will grow about two feet tall. For shorter plants and more flowers, simply "pinch" them each year! Pinching is snapping off the tip of the shoots (1-2" off the ends). You can do this once or twice - about [...]
Why I make homemade jam: It's a great way to use excess fruit. My own fruit is at its peak ripeness at this time so it has wonderful flavor. It's also nearly organic - it's received few or no sprays. Homemade jam also makes a great gift! - Joyce Larson Materials: Sugar 0-3 cups (I use 3) 4 [...]
A Letter From Paul Larson, 8.31.15 "As far as the weather is concerned, I guess it’s true that no two years are exactly alike. However, one thing that does seem to be consistent from year to year is the occurrence of a prolonged dry spell sometime in mid-July to late August. While I know some other [...]
How To Dry Your Herbs, With Joyce Larson What made you decide to dry your garden herbs? "I had a ton of it. It's a good way to save herbs and not waste them. A lot of people do it at the end of the summer before their herbs are dead in the winter. For a [...]