Author Archives: dirtynailz

Herbdoc has some tips for those of us who go out and collect our own holiday greens: As I was gathering greens on my property for holiday displays the other day, I came across a small patch of Oriental Bittersweet … Continue reading →

The Ocean State Orchid Society recently had a big show, and like a moth to a flame, I went. Not that I NEED any orchids, mind you. I told my skeptical husband that I was just going “to look” and … Continue reading →

There is nothing worse than not being able to fall asleep or to stay that way.  Since Herbdoc has a very large herb garden, she is often asked if there is anything that’s safe to take. Here are some of … Continue reading →

I’m just back from another trip to Montreal. While there’s no snow yet, people there are READY for winter, and the preparations include their plants, shrubs and even their stairs and walkways. If you walk around looking at people’s front … Continue reading →

Dear Plants, Please don’t take this the wrong way and drop all your leaves or anything, but it’s time for me to decide who will spend the winter with me, and who has to go. First, on a positive note, … Continue reading →

In case you missed it, this is an El Nino year. NOAA tells us that this quirky climate phenomenon is now strengthening and could become what it calls a “moderate” event. El Nino is caused by a combination of changes … Continue reading →

Looking for a nice gift that is inexpensive and easy to make?  Flavored vinegar can be very costly if purchased in a store, but it’s relatively easy and fun to make. Who better than our regular contributor, Herbdoc, to show … Continue reading →

With most outdoor garden chores winding down, I turn my attention indoors – to  my houseplants. But indoor gardening can be way more than  plants growing in pots.  With a little imagination, you can turn a few plants, some pebbles … Continue reading →

During our recent move, our dog stayed with my in-laws for a few days. She’s stayed there often. It’s a typical ranch house with flower and vegetable gardens in the back – no water feature of any kind. The night … Continue reading →

Herbdoc has yet another timely and helpful post: New England folklore tells us that the wooly bear caterpillar (the larva of the Isabella tiger moth or Pyrrharctia Isabella) can predict how harsh a winter is in store.  If the brown … Continue reading →