23 posts tagged with "Compost"

Growing Blueberries: Introduction​

Blueberries are a rewarding fruit for home gardeners and beginners. These shrubs (often called berry “trees” in landscaping) produce nutritious, antioxidant-rich berries each summer.

To grow blueberries successfully, you need to meet their basic needs: full sun, acidic fertile soil, and consistent moisture. With patience, blueberries can bear fruit within 2–3 years and continue producing for decades.

We’ll explain where and how to plant blueberry bushes, how to prepare the soil (including blueberry soil pH), the best fertilizer (organic compost), and essential care steps (watering, mulching, pruning) to keep your blueberry plants thriving.

Bananas are a convenient, nutrient-rich fruit, but they ripen and spoil quickly at home. On average, a bunch of bananas left out on the counter will only stay fresh for a few days before turning brown and mushy. By understanding what causes bananas to ripen and using smart storage techniques, we can significantly extend their shelf life.

This guide explores how long bananas last, practical tips on how to make them last longer, whether refrigeration helps, and how to compost banana peels to turn kitchen waste into garden gold.

Growing your tomatoes can be one of the most rewarding gardening experiences. But did you know that your juicy tomatoes could carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella if not done carefully? With reports like the Salmonella outbreak tomatoes in the US and the UK, understanding how to grow tomatoes safely is more important than ever.

Whether you're a novice or a seasoned green thumb, this guide walks you through every step, from choosing seeds to harvesting and storing to ensure your tomatoes are delicious and safe to eat.

Introduction to Compost​

What is Compost?​

Compost is decomposed organic matter from kitchen scraps, garden clippings, leaves, and other biodegradable materials. It's often called “black gold” because it can enrich soil, promote plant growth, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

Through natural decomposition processes involving microbes, heat, and moisture, compost turns waste into nutrient-rich humus that's ready to nurture plants.

Benefits of Using Compost​

Using compost can significantly improve your garden in multiple ways:

• Improves soil structure – making it looser and better for root development.

• Enhances moisture retention – reducing the need for frequent watering.

• Boosts soil nutrients – releasing them slowly to support steady plant growth.

• Reduces waste – keeping organic materials out of landfills.

• Supports beneficial microbes – which help break down nutrients and fight diseases.

Introduction to Full Moon July 2025​

The full moon in July 2025, often called the Buck Moon, appears on July 21, 2025. This celestial event not only dazzles the night sky but also offers a unique opportunity for gardeners: plants rooted just before the full moon may thrive more robustly and yield stronger harvests.

Eggs are one of the most versatile and affordable kitchen staples, but have you ever wondered: do eggs expire? how long do eggs last in the fridge? Whether you're preparing a weekend breakfast or baking a cake, using fresh eggs is essential — not just for flavor, but for food safety, too.

Let's explore egg shelf life, expiration myths, how to tell if an egg is bad, and what to do with spoiled eggs, including how to compost eggs safely using a composter.

Tropical Storm Chantal and Its Potential Impact​

What Is a Tropical Storm Warning?​

A tropical storm warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are expected within 36 hours. It serves as an urgent call to action for residents and gardeners alike to secure their homes, yards, and most importantly, their plants. When you hear a warning from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), it's time to act fast.

Overview of Tropical Storm Chantal​

Tropical Storm Chantal is currently tracking over the Atlantic and is projected to move toward the southeastern U.S. coast, bringing high winds, heavy rains, and coastal flooding. While it may not escalate to a hurricane, its impact on low-lying gardens can be devastating.

Latest Updates from the National Hurricane Center​

The NHC has placed South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach, under observation. Current models from the hurricane tracker suggest the storm may make landfall with intense rain bands. Gardeners need to stay informed through trusted sources like NOAA, which updates every few hours.

Myrtle Beach Weather Alerts and Storm Projections​

Myrtle Beach is expected to experience high tides and gusts that can uproot shallow-rooted plants. Flash flood warnings may also affect the coastal soil structure. If you garden near Myrtle Beach, prepare now before the weather takes a turn.

Are Tomatoes Safe to Eat Now? A Look at Food Safety Concerns​

In recent years, more people are asking, “Are tomatoes safe to eat now?” And that concern is valid. Supermarket tomatoes often travel thousands of miles before reaching your plate, making them susceptible to contamination along the way. From harmful pesticides to bacteria like Salmonella, it's become clear that not every tomato is grown under safe conditions.

Recalls and foodborne illness outbreaks related to tomatoes have occurred multiple times in the last decade. In 2025, there are three FDA Recalls including Tomato Recall due to Salmonella. Contaminated water, poor hygiene during harvesting, or unsafe handling during transport can all introduce risks to your health. While washing produce helps, it doesn’t always remove invisible chemical residues.

In fact, tomatoes consistently rank high on the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list—foods most likely to contain pesticide residues. So if you're concerned about what’s in your food, growing your own tomato plant could be the safest—and tastiest—solution.

Popcorn is one of the world’s favourite snacks, but it raises a common question: Can Popcorn expire? Does popcorn expire? Does popcorn go bad? While it might not spoil like milk or bread, popcorn does have a shelf life. Whether you’re dealing with unpopped kernels, microwave bags, or a bowl of buttery popped goodness, how you store your popcorn plays a big role in how long the popcorn lasts.

Let’s break down the science and storage solutions behind popcorn’s longevity.

Imagine a captivating blend of floral sweetness and tropical tang, like a cross between a grape and a rose, with hints of strawberry and watermelon. Mouthwatering! And this is what lychee tastes like. Today, we're going to learn about -- Lychee!