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Table of Contents
1) Editor's Comments:This week we continue our series on caring for house plants by looking at watering, one of the most sought after topics by many lovers of indoor plants. Of course, as promised last week, is a short article on George Washington's Thanksgiving Proclamation. You'll also find other items we hope you enjoy. As always, if you do have questions, suggestions or ideas, do not hesitate to drop us a note. Rex Gregor Tom Krueger 2) Watering House Plants:
Unfortunately, there is not one general rule for how often to water a house plant. Some plants like to have moist soil; some like to have dry periods; others want less water during the short days of the winter and more during the high growing season; where you have a plant or what type of environment it is in can change how often the same variety of plant should be watered. There are just too many factors to come up with a general rule. Lets suffice it to say, though, that in our opinion, the number one killer of house plants is over-watering. It is so easy to worry about a plant's survival, that you simply water without considering the plants need for it. Unless you are hydroponic (without soil) gardening, your plants don't like to have wet feet all the time. Why? Because water will drive out air from the soil, and air is needed for root growth and to the development of beneficial soil organisms. Also, roots will rot. If your soil is foul smelling, it certainly could be from over-watering and you may well have a plant beyond repair. The closest we'll come to a general rule is to say a plant should be allowed to become moderately dry between watering. Again, there are exceptions and you'll want to check the suggestions for your species. Plus, if you have a plant that requires a dormant or resting period, you'll want to water even less. What is the best time to water? The morning is always the best. This way the plant can use the nourishment during its most active period of the day. Also, be sure to remove any excess water from the tray or saucer after about 30 minutes - you don't want to waterlog the soil. What about the best way to water? Well, we'll save that for an article in the next couple weeks, as well as talking about water temperature and other considerations. Give the gift that will be treasured for generations. 3) Humor for Today:A new minister was talking to the oldest member of his con- gregation. "I am 90 years old, sir, and I haven't an enemy in the world," said the aged one. "That is a beautiful thought," said the minister approvingly. "Yes sir," was the answer. "I'm thankful to say that I've outlived 'em all." 4) First Thanksgiving Proclamation:
Here is the first paragraph from the proclamation: Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:" You can find the full text by clicking here or visit http://www.night.net/thanksgiving/kwash-11.html 5) Homemade X-mas Tree:
Grab one of your wire tomato cages (the "funnel" type), flip it upside down, and fill the spaces with evergreen boughs. By golly, it will soon start to look like a small evergreen tree. You can even trim it with lights. When the Christmas season is over, simply take it apart and lay the branches over your plants to protect them from the cold. Click Image for Our Sunrise/Sunset
Images 6) Quotes for Today:"Never make negative comments or spread rumors about anyone. It
depreciates their reputation and yours." "Do you want to injure someone's reputation? Don't speak ill of
him, speak too well." 7) Plant in the Spotlight: Asparagus Fern (Sprengeri)If your are looking for an excellent and easy to grow house plant, you can't beat the Asparagus Fern. A favorite for generations, it can take a lot of abuse. It sends out several 12 to 18-inch arching stems - long, delicate, graceful fronds. Excellent for hanging baskets. If you want a bushy plant you can pinch off the ends of the long stems. Did you know that florists will often include cut stems of the asparagus fern in bunches of roses. They do best in bright indirect or curtain-filtered sunlight. If you only have artificial light to give, be sure to give at least 400 foot-candles. Ideal night time temperatures of 50° to 55° F. and daytime of 68° to 72°. You'll want to keep the soil barely moist. You don't want to fertilize new plants for at least four to six months. After that fertilize at four-month intervals. Be sure to use a water soluble balanced fertilizer. This is one you can re-pot at any time of the year. Use a packaged general-purpose potting mix, or drop us a note if you want to mix your own. Create new plants for yourself or share with others by dividing the roots of old plants - you'll be able to get several good sized plants from one old one. Cut the stems to soil level of all your new babies after dividing. Click Here to go to the Asparagus Fern page or visit http://rexseedco.com/hp.htm#4535 (seed #4535) 8) Freezing Tip:
Here is a recent freezing tip we received. If you are freezing food in water or broth, remember to leave plenty of extra space in your container. The process of freezing increases the volume and if you don't leave space you'll pop the top on the container, or split a bag wide open. Consider what happens when a soda can is left in the freezer. 9) Subscribe/UnsubscribeThis newsletter, the Green Thumb Times, is sent out only to those who have requested a FREE subscription by signing up at http://rexseedco.com or specifically asked to be added PRIVACY: Your email address is held in the strictest of privacy. It is never traded or sold to anyone else. To subscribe to The Green Thumb Times To unsubscribe Rex Gregor, Editor Tom Krueger, Publisher Please feel free to forward The Green Thumb Times to a friend. Rex’s Seedco has searched the world for quality
growers of garden seeds. Many of these farmers bring together ancient
wisdom and modern science so people everywhere may have good health
and enjoyment in life. We are dedicated to providing the best wherever
they are found.
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In
past issues we talked about the requirement for your house plants. In
particular, we discussed lighting. Well, equally important to a healthy
plant is the amount of water it receives. This can be the most challenging
aspect for almost every person trying to maintain healthy indoor plants.
Last
week we shared some history about the Thanksgiving holiday here in the
United States. Did you know that George Washington, the first President
of the US issued a Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1789?
Thanksgiving
usually marks the time for folks to start displaying their Christmas
decorations. How'd you like to create a quick little Christmas tree
in your yard?
In
the northern hemisphere we are nearing the time of year when we enjoy
good hearty soups and broths to warm us up. If you're like us, you always
make too much and you want to freeze some for a quick meal later.