Recycle Milk Jugs

Don't throw away your plastic milk jugs. Recycle them instead!! I have found that 1-gallon milk jugs work just perfect as nursery pots, plus they have handles. Simply cut out the spout and front of the jug, leaving the handle. Then punch a few holes in the bottom for drainage and it is ready for your seedlings to grow with vengeance.

How to Extend the Blooming Season of Your Summer Annuals

You may have noticed that your summer annuals maybe looking rather tired. Don't give up on them yet. Persistence is the key here. You have to water on a consistent basis, trim back occassionally, and of course fertilize. It is so easy to get lazy this time of year. Who wants to works out side with these hot temperatures?? Place these thought on hold, and gather the strength to out in the garden and do some needed chores. This is the time to lightly prune back petunias, impatiens, begonias, and other leggy annuals. Annuals tend to strengthen during the very hot months. Then go ahead and fertilize with an all-purpose fertilizer. A liquid food will be more immediate. Fertilize every 4 weeks at least. Make sure you always keep your seasonal annuals moist and do not let them get too dry. Dryness can weaken the plant and thus they produce little too no flowers.

Watermelon-Peach Salsa and Tomatoes

When you think of summer, you may be like me, you think about foods like watermelon, peaches, and yes... ripe tomatoes. These three foods, when blended together make for a delightful treat.
Here is what you will need to create just ONE of those special treats that your guests will think you spent HOURS on:

Supplies:

1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
1 Tbsp. lime zest
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 cups seeded and diced fresh watermelon
1 cup peeled and diced fresh peaches
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/3 cup chopped fresh chives
3 cups baby heirloom tomatoes, halved
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Garish with fresh basil sprigs

Whisk together pepper jelly, lime zest, and lime juice in a bowl; stir in watermelon and next 3 ingredients.

Season halved baby tomatoes with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Spoon into cocktail glasses, top with salsa. Garnish, if so desired (you will want too.....).

Have a great day...