BUFFALO GROVE GARDEN CLUB

Here are some additional resources for all your plant and garden related questions and issues! 

• Chicago Botanic Gardens:  http://www.chicagobotanic.org/plantinfo/
• The Morton Arboretum:  http://www.mortonarb.org/tree-plant-advice.html
• University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners:  http://web.extension.illinois.edu/mg/news/default.cfm
 

SOME “GREEN” GARDENING TIPS

• Keep it real.  Use all natural fertilizers and pest controls.  Nix the chemical pesticides.  Use All-natural compost.
• Make your own compost.  Use earthworms to speed things up.
• Buy lawn furniture and planters made of recycled materials.
•  Grow your own food.
•    Join a community garden or co-op.
•  Go “native”…..requires less fertilizer, water, time and money.
• Harvest rainwater.  Use rain barrels. It’s chlorine free water. Reducing storm water run-off will prevent erosion and flooding.
• Water with care.  Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation.  Add mulch.  Water early in the day and directly on the roots.
• Bring on the butterflies and the bees.  Gardens with 10 or more species entice more bees.  Grow a diverse variety of native flowers.
•        Purchase seeds instead of plants. Buy certified organic seeds and plants.
•        Don’t buy anything in a plastic bag.  
•       Use your space wisely.  Grow some vegetables that you eat.
•     Limit your use of gas powered and electric tools.  Use a push mower.
• Say no to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
• Remember the power of the 4 Rs: Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, Rebuy.

ORGANIC SOAP AND OIL SPRAY

Combine 1 cup vegetable oil with 1 TBSP liquid soap. Mix 2 tsp of this mixture with 1 cup water in a spray bottle.  Use to control insects.

ORGANIC PESTICIDE

Mix ½ cup baking soda and  1tsp liquid detergent with 1 quart water.  Use as a spray for insect control.

COMMON HERBS FOR ANY GARDEN

Basil – needs dry, light, well drained soil and a sunny, but sheltered location.

Borage – will grow anywhere, but likes sun and prefers well drained, loamy soil. Has beautiful blue flowers that are also edible.

Chives – will grow almost anywhere.

Cilantro – needs rich, well drained soil and a warm sunny location.

Fennel -grows well in most soils as long as it’s not too acidic, too wet, or too heavy.

Lemon Balm – likes shady places and rich moist soil, but does need a little sun occasionally.

Oregano – prefers chalky or gravelly soil and a warm dry location.

Parsley - needs well drained, loose soil

Rosemary – needs light sandy rather dry soil. Likes lots of sun, shelter from wind.

Sage- likes well drained, chalky soil, on the dry side.

Tarragon- does not like “wet feet”, so good drainage is vital. Will tolerate exposure and poor soil.

Thyme – needs light, well drained soil and a sunny location. Excellent in a rock garden.