Ah, to weed or not to weed, that is the question. Weeds are ever present in nearly all landscapes in some form or other. They're also the bane of most gardeners, myself included at one time. But are there legitimate reasons to let weeds stay where they are or should you get rid of them altogether? This is a personal issue and one that will likely include a number of differing opinions, all of which are welcome (just be nice).

So journey with us as both Shelley and I explore this topic and present our own views on the pros and cons of weeds in the garden.

Reasons to Let Weeds Stay in Gardens

(Nikki's viewpoint) Personally, I like weeds - at least I do now for the most part. I will admit that I used to nearly kill myself as I continuously pulled them up, only to have them pop right back up somewhere else. It seemed like a losing battle and got to the point where I questioned why I was even trying. But turns out that was a good thing.

I started to learn more about the weeds I constantly battled to no avail. And I learned that there were more pros to growing weeds than there was luck in defeating them. After much exploration, I finally decided not to fight them but invite them into my garden instead. Here's my reasons for why you should let weeds grow.

• Great for wildlife. I am a wildlife gardener and welcome all sorts of critters and insects into the garden. Allowing some of the weeds to grow helps encourage their presence. In fact, many weeds attract pollinators and other beneficial insects. Some birds and small animals also feed on these plants. Creating a wildlife weed garden will be much appreciated.
• They're useful. A number of weeds are actually useful herbs. That's right. Many are edible or can be used medicinally to treat all manner of things. I was so intrigued by this that I wanted to learn more, so I signed up for classes in herbalism. Now I have yet another reason to grow weeds in the garden. I'm able to use many of them in teas (stinging nettle, white clover, chickweed), as poultices for healing (wild yarrow, plantain), or even in salads (dandelions, curly dock/sorrel, purslane) where their beneficial properties come in handy.
• Wonderful as groundcovers. Got an area that needs to fill in quickly? Weeds can do just that! After all, they're known for their vigorous growth, right. So why not take advantage of this and grow some of the more well-behaved weeds as an attractive groundcover. This can also be helpful for controlling erosion, especially on slopes. I like creeping Charlie, and it's another one of those useful edible herbs too.
• Require little care. As vigorous growers, which we can likely all attest to, those weeds won't require all your time and attention growing in the garden quite like they do when you choose to pull or eradicate them. Sun, shade, wet, dry, or wherever, they will grow all on their own!
• Provide clues about soil. If you pay attention to areas of the landscape where you notice weeds growing, they can actually tell you about the soil conditions there. This is helpful in combatting them IF that is what you choose to do, but naturally. For example, poor soils with low fertility are often home to weeds like mugwort or crabgrass. If you improve the soil in these areas, you can more easily limit their growth. That being said, in areas of the garden where everything else fails, these could be great additions - Mugwort deters pesky insects, while crabgrass has edible seeds that are nutritious. Others, like clover (which fixes nitrogen), can improve soil by adding nutrients where needed.
• Attractive additions. Some weeds are not just attractive to beneficial insects and wildlife but can be beautiful to us as well. There are many weeds (like English daisies, dandelions, wild violets, and chicory) that have pretty flowers. Others offer interesting foliage such as many types of thistles. If it's something different, you can bet I'm into it.

Why You Should Get Rid of Weeds

(Shelley's viewpoint) While not necessarily fond of weeds, I feel there's merit in some of their uses. That being said, I would rather not allow weed in my garden. And here's why:

• They're unsightly.When we garden,we have a vision of what our developing garden should look like, whether it be well-manicured flower beds or neat tidy rows of healthy-looking vegetables. Weeds are never factored into our vision and for good reason. Weeds make our gardens look less appealing, messy and unrefined. 
• They can flare up your allergies. If you want to minimize the amount of achooing you do, it may be in your best interest to keep allergy inducing weeds such as ragweed, pigweed, lamb'squarters, tumbleweed and sagebrush out of your garden. You want to be able to enjoy gardening without a wad of tissues in your pockets and itchy, red watering eyes.
• They can compromise your cultivated plants. Weeds compete with your garden plants for the same water, light and nutrients. Weeds have an edge because they have more aggressive root systems. What this means is that your vegetables, annuals and perennials will not thrive to their potential, or in the worst-case scenario, die altogether due to being crowded out by weeds or weakened to the point they are susceptible to pests and disease.
• Death. Did I mention your plants could die? That's right. And not only because of being outcompeted by weeds for food and water. Weeds are known to be carriers of plant virus diseases, not to mention that pests, such as whiteflies and spider mites, are attracted like magnets to the lush canopies that weeds have to offer. All the more reason why you should get rid of weeds.
• Unpleasant Gardening Experience. Some weeds have stickers, thorns or other unpleasant characteristics that are not fun to have contact with and put a damper on the gardening experience. I remember one time getting a mass of burs tangled up in my hair - not a fond memory. Let's also talk about harvest.Harvest is the pivotal point of the gardening season when you acquire the fruits of your hard labor. It's something to look forward to.Weeds can take the joy out of harvesting, especially when it comes to low growing leafy crops. It is time-consuming and cumbersome to pick and parcel out weeds that are mixed in with your intended yield.

There are just as many reasons to pull weeds as to let them stay. The decision to keep or pull weeds is purely personal and depends on your outlook. Weeds can be regarded as something hideous or things of beauty. They can be viewed as a hindrance or something helpful. There really is no wrong or right way of dealing with weeds. 

When it comes to the benefits of xeriscaping, it is about the practical considerations of maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and expense. Xeriscaping means constructing a yard that uses less water, but doesn't necessarily mean it's a good thing. So, buyer beware!

Xeriscape Gardening Pros

(Mary's viewpoint) For gardeners, xeriscaping is a smart way to adapt to the challenges of our changing climate, but xeriscaping doesn't have to consist boulders, gravel, and cactus. As someone living in the high desert where this type of landscaping comes in handy, here are my thoughts on xeriscaping advantages:

• A healthy environment: Global climate change is a huge problem. Xeriscaping is a small, but important, way to offset the effects of frequent drought, higher temperatures, and a growing dependence on toxic chemicals to control pests and disease.
• Water: When it comes to the xeriscape gardening pros, conservation of our precious water supply is on the top of the list. Xeriscaped landscapes thrive with very little supplemental irrigation, and in some climates, you may not need to drag out the hose and sprinkler at all.
• Aesthetics: With careful planning and use of attractive native plants, a xeriscaped landscape can be a wonder to behold. Cactus plants are lovely, but you can also include plump succulents, graceful ornamental grasses and colorful blooming plants. A xeriscaped garden may contain deciduous trees or shrubs, or evergreens that provide year-round color.
• Versatility: Xeriscaping is typically a technique used in extremely dry climates, or in areas affected by drought, but the technique can be used nearly anywhere. It isn't necessary to xeriscape your entire garden or to tear out a manicured lawn. Start with a small corner, maybe an area where nothing seems to grow or a spot in punishing sunlight. Have fun experimenting and see how the technique works for you before you jump in with both feet.
• Maintenance: Ease of care is one of the major xeriscape gardening pros. Drought-tolerant plants typically grow slower, which means pruning, trimming, and weed whacking are rarely necessary. Desert plants and shrubs require no fertilizer, and they are highly resistant to pests and disease. After the first year, ease of maintenance is one of the primary benefits of xeriscaping.
• Expense: When considering xeriscaping advantages, consider the expense over the long term. The initial investment may be a bit high but, once established, a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden can save gardeners a substantial amount of money. 

Cons of Xeriscaping

(Teo's viewpoint) Xeriscaping glorifies "water-frugal" plants and gardening materials over supporting native wildlife and can result in a garden that doesn't feel like a haven where you can retreat from the world. And it can cost you more in money than you will recoup by years of less water use. Here are my problems with xeriscaping:

• Doesn't support native ecosystems: When you pick plants for a garden, you have to use some guiding criteria in the selection process since there are so many species and cultivars available in commerce. Many gardeners - myself included - like to plant native flora to help retain an ecosystem's diversity and support native insects, birds and small mammals. Xeriscaping is a system of selecting plants that focusses on water conservation. While this obviously keeps water usage down, it doesn't support native ecosystems in the same way a natural garden would. Not every native plant is drought resistant, yet every native plant plays a role in the ecosystem you live in.
• Rougher soil and less insects: Xeriscaping means an entire landscape, not just drought-resistant plants. You need to cart out or cover up all that topsoil you've enriched with organic compost over the years and replace it with rough materials that retain and efficiently distribute what little water is available. This usually means bringing in hard, chunky materials like wood chips and gravel. And the plants themselves often are rougher and tougher, vegetation with sharp thorns and edges. While some insects may prefer this type of ecosystem, it won't be the same ones that rely on softer plants, big flowers or lots of foliage. The starker landscape won't please every gardener or homeowner either. I personally count the time I spend working in my garden as the happiest, most peaceful hours in the day and would deeply miss the lush, green foliage and over-the-top flowers in summer.
• More time and money: While xeriscaping is billed as a good choice for a gardener who wants to save time and money, take a hard look at these claims. While it's true that if you take out your lawn, you won't have to mow or water it, that's hardly the be-all and end-all. Taking out your lawn and changing your landscape isn't cheap.
• Improper design issues: One of the major reasons xeriscape gardens fail to please homeowners is improper design. Xeriscape gardens must be designed carefully, as design mistakes will haunt you for years. That means you probably will want to bring in a landscape specialist and that means even more money.

Final Thoughts on Xeriscape Gardens

Unlike traditional landscaping methods, xeriscaping is sustainable into the future. It is also a wise use of available resources and an answer for busy gardeners who don't have a lot of time for high-maintenance landscaping. That being said"¦using less water is a noble plan, but let's avoid the all-or-nothing solutions!

There are real disadvantages to taking anything too far, as celery-only diets have shown us. Consider well before taking out a backyard that focuses on native plants to replace with a landscape that focuses on low-water plants. This can hurt rather than help native wildlife and you may not like what you get. So if you want to give this landscaping method a try, start small.

Many folks think that lawn rolling each year is part of general maintenance, but not so fast. As with most things there are both pros and cons of lawn rolling. The answer to the questions "is lawn rolling good or bad?" or "does lawn rolling work?" isn't a simple yes or no answer. Read on to find out about lawn rolling benefits and detriments - things I've learned from my lawn aficionado better half.

Is Lawn Rolling Good or Bad?

As with many things, there are both pros and cons of lawn rolling. Or maybe a better way to put it is that there is a time and place to achieve lawn rolling benefits.

First off, the idea behind lawn rolling is to level out the surface of the soil upon which a lawn is grown. Sounds great in theory since lumpy lawns arise from normal freezing and thawing cycles and from mole hills and tunnels, but does lawn rolling really work?

Pros and Cons of Lawn Rolling

First off, we'll discuss lawn rolling benefits.

• Lawn rolling is useful in the spring when trying to level out minor bumps or uneven lawn areas. Prior to rolling the lawn, add a light top dressing.
• Lawn rolling is also useful for preparing a bare area for seeding. Use a light roller which will push the seed into the soil to ensure more even germination. Of course, seed can also be raked into the soil instead.
• A roller is also helpful when laying sod. It helps the sod take root and encourages the roots to grow deeper.

While there are lawn rolling benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Lawns are many a homeowner's obsession and they take great care to create the perfect lawn, one worthy of a golf course. Just ask my hubby - he'll tell you all about it. The thing is, golf course turf is not only constantly maintained, but it is also laid down on a special sand base that does not compact. If the homeowner is attempting to attain the smooth turf of a golf course, a lawn roller may seem the ideal solution.

The problem? As you might assume, rolling a lawn also compacts the dirt beneath the grass which, in turn, prevents water from penetrating the soil and causes runoff, which takes with it any amendments from the turf and into the nearby sewer system. So instead of being beneficial, lawn rolling in the spring causes stress right off the bat at the beginning of the growing season.

On a golf course, the turf is rolled several times a week, but in conjunction with coring of the sod to allow for water and air penetration.

Does Lawn Rolling Work?

In the end, while lawn rolling is not necessary, it can be a useful maintenance tool provided you follow a few rules.

Use a lightweight water-filled roller so weight can easily be adjusted depending on the amount of water used. Start by filling only about a quarter of the roller with water and do a test run to see if this is sufficient to smooth out bumps. If not, gradually increase the water until you find the right weight, one that is enough to smooth the bumps but not compact the soil.

Use a lawn roller after you seed or sod the yard, after cold winters which caused soil heaving, and to correct small bumpy areas of the lawn. Lawn rolling is also beneficial if you are making a playing turf for putting, croquet or cricket. 

Other than for these reasons, avoid lawn rolling. If you do decide this method is for you, do so in the early spring and roll the lawn when it is damp, not soaking wet. Never use a lawn roller if your soil is composed of heavy clay.

Deciding between raised beds vs. sunken beds really depends on your soil condition and region - and perhaps your personal preference too.

First, you need to answer the questions, "what is sunken bed and what is a raised bed" since knowing the differences between the two will also play a role in determining which is better for your circumstances.

Each has decided advantages and can help improve soil health along with some other growing conditions.

Raised Beds vs. Sunken Beds in Gardens

I've had raised beds on different properties before and love that the soil warms up early and I can sit on the edge and weed with leisure. The problem is that they dry out quickly. Lately, we have been experimenting with trenching and sunken beds.

Because our region is desert dry, the method holds and directs water, allowing us to irrigate less frequently and efficiently moves moisture to plant roots. However, each method has different benefits tied to specific regions and aren't the sole solution to gardening problems.

What is a Raised Bed?

When trying to decide whether to use raised beds vs. sunken beds, it helps to consider your zone and soil type. Raised beds are useful in regions with a temperate climate and plentiful rainfall. It is easy to add soil amendments to a raised bed to increase porosity and add nutrients. Plus, they can be built out of anything, such as old bricks or even just mounds of dirt.

One of the main differences between raised and sunken beds is that raised beds warm up more quickly in spring. They also keep plant roots warmer, leaving less chance of freezing. However, a raised bed benefits from a thick layer of mulch to keep moisture in the soil, since it will dry out faster than in-ground soil.

What is a Sunken Bed?

Sunken beds serve several purposes and are very useful where little rain occurs, good for desert-like climates or drought stricken areas. They are simply depressions in which you install plants. You can get really fancy and trench from plant to plant, forcing water to each set of roots.

Sunken gardens in sandy soil can be used to add compost and other elements to the site. Building walls around the sunken garden with organic material, captures moisture while simultaneously adding a slow release of nutrients. The hills also capture extra moisture and will add shade at certain times of the day to keep the depression from drying out.

Is a Raised or Sunken Garden Bed Better?

With all the benefits and differences between raised and sunken beds, it still may be hard to decide which is right for you. Gardeners in the rain heavy parts of the Pacific Northwest, for example, will do well with raised beds. However, southern gardeners in arid zones or where heat is high almost year around, should try sunken beds.

Any region could use either method, but sunken gardens could create a boggy mess if soil is clay, while raised beds will need daily watering if soil is sandy. So consider your annual rainfall, temperatures, and soil type before building either.

Double potting is a term that can apply to a couple different gardening methods, but the basic gist is always the same. It's the practice of fitting one potted plant inside another, slightly larger pot. No matter how you do it, the benefits of double potting are numerous and not as obvious as you might think. But as with all good things, double potting problems may exist too. Keep reading to learn more about double potting advantages and disadvantages.

Double Potting Pros

(Liz's viewpoint) Perhaps the most common form of double potting involves the use of a cachepot. "Cachepot" is French for "hidden pot," and the secret of its use is in its name. It's a larger, decorative container that serves to hold a slightly smaller, probably less aesthetically pleasing, container that the plant is actually growing in. There are several advantages of double potting in this way.

First of all, the time people are most likely to repot a plant is when they first bring it home from the store, when they want to get it out of that unsightly plastic container. The thing is, being purchased involves a change in temperature, light, location, and humidity - all traumatizing events in a plant's life that can affect its health. It's used to growing in that unsightly plastic container, and being repotted right away could be enough to do it in for good. That's why double potting is so good. Simply nestle your new plant in the container of your choice, and save the repotting for a time further down the road. This, to me, is probably one of the greatest benefits of double potting.

Of course, you may never choose to move your plant permanently. Another of the double potting pros is that while the container stays the same, the plants that inhabit it can be swapped out with no fuss. This works extra well for annual flowers and seasonally blooming plants. Place a big decorative container in your landscape or by your front door, and you can swap out the plants growing all year long, so you'll always have blossoms without any of the hassle.

This idea of shuffling multiple potted plants into the same container brings us to another kind of double potting that has its own host of advantages - in-ground double potting. By sinking a container into a hole in the ground, you can swap out the plant growing in that part of your garden whenever you please, without ever having to dig.

In-ground double potting advantages don't just stop at easy change-ups, though. It can also make for a healthier, more low maintenance plant. Container plants grown aboveground need to be watered more frequently, and are far more susceptible to wind damage and fluctuation in temperature. Double potting gives a plant all the benefits of growing in the ground (better water retention, stable temperature, safety from wind) without forcing you to commit to planting it in your garden.

If the plant stops blooming, or you need to bring it indoors for the winter, you can simply lift it out of its spot in the ground and move it. You could dazzle your neighbors with a garden full of cacti in Minnesota, if you wanted. Just make double sure to bring them in before the nights get cold!

Cons of Double Potting

(Nikki's viewpoint) It's not that I'm totally against double potting plants. In fact, I use this same practice with many of my own. There are, however, a few disadvantages of double potting and it wouldn't be wise not to at least consider these before using cachepots in the home or out in the garden. to placing pots inside other ones

First, those decorative cachepots don't have any drainage holes. While it's all fine and good to place your potted plants (with drainage) inside these containers, you need to keep in mind that standing water from irrigating your plants can quickly become an issue. Life happens and when you're in a hurry (or just feeling a little lazy), it's not uncommon to pour some water on your plants, only to be reminded later with annoying fungus gnats or smelly stagnant water that's been sitting for weeks or months.

Oh, and then there's the real good chance of losing said plants to root rot if the pot they're planted in has been sitting in that water too. I have learned this from personal experience (yes, I'm guilty of being lazy at times). That's why it's highly recommended to remove the plants from the cachepots when watering them, even if you're pressed for time - Note to self: heed this recommendation.

So, what about those in-ground double pots? Well, these are a bit easier and less of an issue since they're usually not as fancy (cause they're in the ground and not seen), so many of these will actually have drainage holes of their own, or you can add them. This, of course, solves the with double potting problems with irrigation.

Other than the watering issue, I find many of Liz's benefits to double potting plants to be reason enough to give it a try. Just be sure to keep those "cons" of double potting in the back of your mind.

Using herbs to enhance health isn't a new idea. The practice goes back centuries and was the focus of ancient medical practices. The selection of cooling vs. warming herbs was as important as the other properties of the plants. What are cooling herbs and how are they different from warming herbs? They were likely designated as such by early Chinese herbalists. The two types of herbs can influence the balance of Yin and Yang, which in turn promotes optimal health.

Cooling vs. Warming Herbs

Herbs are an impressive tool to add to our medical wellness kit. Their long history of use in many different cultures can't be a mistake. Taking a page from our ancestors in the use of herbs could help us live healthier lives and avoid the doctor's office. Herbs that warm and cool are used for different purposes. The temperature designation has nothing to do with the body's heat level, but rather with the symptom to be treated.

Herbs that warm and cool have nothing to do with temperature and everything to do with "nature." With herbs, nature dictates what will be used on a particular patient. Each patient is unique with complaints that may be cool or warm. Once diagnosed, the herbal practitioner will dispense the appropriate herb to combat the state, either cool or warm.

For instance, warm influences the yang and the metabolic processes of the body. Cooling herbs affect the yin and have flavors that are sour, bitter and salty. Conversely, the warming herbs tend to be sweet but pungent. Each has its place in Oriental medicine and is used for different diagnosis.

What are Cooling Herbs?

Cooling herbs are used to remove excess heat and increase strength. Associated ailments can include hot flashes, dryness, dizziness, insomnia, and even irregular heartbeat. Sour herbs are used to correct the reproductive system, reduce sweating, and treat cough, diarrhea, and incontinence. The bitter herbs are used for constipation, cough, fever, vomiting, and other complaints. Salty cool herbs detox the body and treat abnormal growths.

Cool herbs include:

• American ginseng
• Ligustrum berry
• Wild asparagus root
• Comfrey
• Rose
• Golden thread rhizome
• Honeysuckle flower
• Chinese gentian root
• Dandelion
• Purslane

What are Warming Herbs?

Warming herbs are used to treat weakness, coldness, inflammation, lower back pain, and impotence. The sweet variety focus on such problems as pain, detoxification, and general weakness. They are used to enhance stomach and spleen health. The pungent herbs enhance circulation and blood and may be useful uplifting the endocrine system. Warming herbs are not only warming but drying. The types used are:

• Fleeceflower root
• Valerian
• Licorice root
• Chamomile
• Burdock root
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Angelica
• Ginger
• Fennel

Clover is either a pretty little plant that you love, or a weedy pest that you hate. While this little plant may offer certain benefits, it's also important to consider the many disadvantages of clover. We're here to help with that. Let's take a closer look at both sides of this gardening coin and see which one you fall on.

Clover Planting Pros

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) Although many consider it a weed, there are actually a lot of benefits of planting clover in your lawn. A clover-only lawn or a mix of grass and clover is healthier and more natural than all turf grass. It attracts pollinators and requires less maintenance. You'll have fewer weeds and less summer browning with clover in the lawn too. And these are just some reasons to grow clover. Here's all the reasons why I'm all for planting clover:

• Helps the bees. Clover in your lawn attracts pollinators. The flowers are a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. Clover helps provide additional food sources for struggling bee populations, which in turn increases needed pollination in your garden.
• Reduces mowing. For those who dread yard work, one of the biggest reasons to grow clover is that it requires little to no mowing. White clover, the variety most seen in lawns, grows very low to the ground.
• Enriches the soil. As a legume, clover takes nitrogen from the air and changes it into a usable form in the soil. If you have a mix of grass and clover in your lawn, the grass will be healthier, and you can reduce fertilizer use.
• Avoids brown patches. While turf grass tends to go dormant and turn brown during the hottest part of the year, clover stays green thanks to its deep-reaching roots. And clover also resists browning from dog urine.
• Saves water. You can avoid summer browning with constant watering, but this is wasteful. More clover in the lawn means less water is needed to keep it green.
• Prevents weed growth. Of all the clover planting pros, this one may seem perplexing to some people who consider it a weed. If you plant it intentionally, with or without grass, you'll find that real weeds become much less of a problem. Few weeds can out-compete this sturdy plant.

Clover Planting Cons

(Mary's viewpoint) Okay, sure, there may be some good things to be said about planting clover, but are these really enough to warrant keeping the plant around? Not to me, and probably not to many others either. Here's why:

• Lack of durability. If you have children and pets, clover isn't as tough as turfgrass and won't stand up to hard use and heavy traffic unless it's mixed with grass. This is one of the major problems with growing clover, and may be an unpleasant surprise if you're expecting a sturdy, durable lawn.
• Appearance. You may not like the appearance of clover when it's in your lawn. It may look weedy, patchy, and uneven, especially when clover is combined with grass. This is one of the distinct disadvantages of clover if you prefer a neat, tidy lawn.
• Bee stings. Clover blossoms are rich in sweet nectar and a dense stand of clover can draw a lot of bees. Although the important pollinators are essential to a healthy environment, a clover lawn can be dangerous if anybody in your family is allergic to bee stings, or if you (or your kids) enjoy running barefoot in the lawn.
• Invasiveness. When it comes to clover planting cons, the plant's aggressive nature is at the top of my list. Clover sends out stolons, or runners, that grow across the surface of the soil to sprout new plants. The rambunctious plants can creep into flower beds, vegetable gardens, or your neighbor's lawn, competing with other plants for space, moisture, and nutrients.
• Green stains. Traditional turfgrass is notorious for staining clothing, but clover is much worse, and removing the stains is a huge challenge. This may not be one of the main disadvantages of clover, but scrubbing bright green stains out of your kid's favorite jeans is a gigantic headache.

In most cases, you'll find your own benefits of planting clover once you do it, or maybe not. Whether it's the low-maintenance aspect, the eco-friendliness of a clover lawn, or other reasons, consider using this natural plant in place of some or all of your turf grass. While this plant has many benefits, however, the disadvantages of clover shouldn't be overlooked either. Carefully consider the problems with growing clover before it's too late. Getting rid of clover without harmful herbicides is next to impossible once the plant established.

Love coconut and love our planet? Coconut coir may be the right growing media for you, as it is just the cast off clothing from a harvested coconut. Using this rather than discarding it is a win-win for environmental responsibility, and is becoming popular due to its use as a natural planting medium. You can plant directly in coir or mix it with other beneficial amendments.

While this is a great growing medium for many plants with a number of benefits, it's just as important to consider the possible cons of coconut coir as well. Bonnie and Becca will go over the most common coconut coir pros and cons here.

Reasons to Plant in Coconut Coir

(Bonnie's viewpoint) Most of us have had the mantra, "reduce, reuse, recycle" drilled into our brains over the last few decades. While it may seem a bit trite, the core message is one that could save our planet. Coconut coir is just the husk of the nut that has been soaked in water for up to 6 weeks and then spun into a fiber-like product. The fibers are extremely strong and can be stretched or compressed without damaging them. The coir is dried and pressed into pots, discs or just left loose and bagged up as a mulch. They're also commonly made into hanging basket liners.

• Sustainability - I feel there are a number of reasons to plant in coconut coir, and one of the main reasons is its sustainability. You can reuse coconut coir, unlike many other planting mediums, such as peat moss. And, unlike peat moss, which is harvested from gradually declining bogs, coir is the result of a repurposed waste - the coconut husk. The average mature coconut palm can produce up to 150 nuts per year. Harvested and cleaned coconuts end up in our supermarkets, but all that shaggy coir was traditionally discarded or burned, increasing our carbon problems. With modern methods, the stuff is produced with minimal energy, and is lightweight to ship.
• Increases aeration and retains water - Coir is well known for its ability to provide good aeration, which is great for plants. Coconut coir pros also tout its ability to soak up 10x its weight in water. When coir is used in hydroponic systems with nutrient solution, the roots uptake those nutrients more quickly than in soil mixes. Used as a planting medium, your plants will require much less watering.
• Ease of use and few issues - Among the benefits of coir is its pH neutrality. Coconut coir pros usually recommend mixing the product with other plant amendments, but you can use it straight too. It also has anti-fungal properties and many pests avoid living in the stuff, minimizing insect and disease problems.
• It doesn't cost much - Coir is also relatively inexpensive, especially if you get it in compressed forms. All you need to do is soak it and it will expand to nearly double the size. This makes for a lightweight, easy-to-transport plant substrate.
• Different types to choose from - There are different forms of coconut coir. Coco pith (sometimes called coconut peat) is so absorbent that it could keep plant roots overly wet and should probably be mixed. Coco fibers allow for superior aeration and let oxygen into plant roots easily. Coco chips are excellent when mixed into soil, as they create air pockets while also retaining some water.

Disadvantages of Coconut Coir Planting

(Becca's viewpoint) I certainly agree there are advantages to planting in this medium, but let me mention there are disadvantages of coconut coir too.

• Hard to find - First, it can be hard to find, at least locally. I found one bag at a Walmart and that was two or three years ago. After an extensive search, I had to order it. And the coir I ordered was in a block, hard to break down and then difficult to get wet.
• Problems from salt - Some gardeners have experienced cons of coconut coir because of too much salt in the product. The electrical conductivity of water in growing medium that is too salty can prevent or deter the uptake of water by plant roots. It can also cause issues with the absorption of nutrients. This often happens because those harvesting the coir rinse the product in saltwater as opposed to fresh water. Know the distributor of the material before you purchase and, if the price seems too good to be true, check the fine print and call the company, if needed. Salt in the product has the potential to cause major problems.
• Doesn't contain nutrients - Other drawbacks of planting in coir include nutrient addition, as this is an inert (no nutrients) medium. I prefer doing my own fertilization, but I know many of you expect nutrients to be in your potting medium. You can mix coir with another soil mixture at half and half to get some of the nutrients, but you likely still need to add fertilizer. Also, coir has the inclination to hold back calcium, magnesium and iron. While it stores and releases most added nutrients readily, because of a high cation exchange, you will possibly need to find a formula that has extras of those mentioned. I primarily use coir for growing succulents that need only limited nutrients, so it is not a problem, but may be for some other plants.

Using a product that would have otherwise been discarded or burned is an environmentally conscious decision. While it won't fit every plant's needs, it is a versatile and adaptable soil amendment that can take the place of endangered peat. Just make sure you consider all of its possible downsides too prior to use.

When it comes to understanding heirloom plants, there are no simple definitions. Some people claim heirloom plants were around prior to 1951, when growers introduced hybrid cultivars. Others say in order to qualify, a plant must be handed down in a family from generation to generation, or that it must be traceable at least fifty (or 100) years. Unlike newer hybrid plants, heirloom plants are pollinated naturally, without human assistance.

But what are the pros and cons to growing heirlooms in the garden? Are there any specific benefits of heirlooms or reasons to avoid heirlooms altogether? Our writers Amy and Mary weighed in on these exact questions.

Pros of Planting Heirlooms

(Amy's viewpoint) Heirloom seeds are open pollinated seeds that are at least 50 years old or older. These seeds have often been handed down from generation to generation. I don't know what could be a more resounding reason for growing heirlooms plants than that! It is obvious that I applaud the use of heirloom seeds, but for the reader's sake and to defend my beliefs, what are the pros of planting heirlooms?

There are a number of benefits of heirlooms. To truly appreciate these, it's a good idea to define heirloom seeds. As mentioned above, heirloom seeds are those that are over 50 years old and are open pollinated. Prior to the 1900's, all seeds were heirloom and passed from family to family. Some of these heirlooms can even be traced as having come over with the pilgrims!

Open pollinated means that seeds can be saved season after season and the resulting plants will stay true to the parent plant, something a hybrid can't boast. Heirloom plants, in fact, are the precursors to today's hybrids which wouldn't exist without them.

If you save seed from a hybrid, one or two plants out of every 10 grown from these seeds will be true to the parent plant. In fact, it would take at least 7 years of successive saving and growing to return to the original parent.

Why is this important? Hybrids are comprised of the best qualities of a particular heirloom and combined to get something new. In my opinion, why mess with something that is already close to perfect. Heirloom seeds have been selected as the best of a crop and then passed down from generation to generation. This means that an heirloom tomato, for example, is often the best tasting tomato generations of growers have ever produced.

Another benefit of heirlooms is nutrition. Turns out that over the years as farmers have selected hybrids because they ship better or produce a higher yield, concessions have been made to not only taste, but nutrition; heirlooms are often more nutrient rich than hybrids.

Heirlooms also often don't ripen all at once, which is a boon for a family that can only eat so many of those aforementioned tomatoes at one time. A revolving harvest gives the gardener time to utilize ripe produce over time rather than all in one fell swoop.

Lastly, if the above argument hasn't swayed you into growing heirloom plants, think of the cost differential. Heirloom seeds may or may not be less expensive than hybrids, but over time if you save seed, the cost becomes $0 - much more economical than purchasing seeds year after year, let alone buying produce at the local grocer's prices.

Downsides to Heirloom Planting

(Mary's viewpoint) It's not that I'm totally against growing heirlooms in the garden, but to me, there are a number of reasons to avoid heirlooms. These include:

• Lack of vigor: As you consider the downsides to heirloom planting, keep in mind that heirloom plants generally aren't as vigorous as hybrids, which are bred to be drought-tolerant and resistant to diseases and pests. Heirlooms are more likely to develop fungal, viral, or bacterial infections or other challenges. 
• Quality: Heirloom plants generally aren't as pretty as hybrid cultivars. They may be less than perfect, either cracked, bumpy, scarred, or uneven, while hybrids tend to be larger with a better shape and an even, bright color. If you're concerned about aesthetics, appearance may be one of the major reasons to avoid heirlooms. Additionally, while the flavor of heirloom varieties may be superior, there's also a chance you might be disappointed. 
• Dependability: When it comes to the disadvantages of heirloom plants, keep in mind that heirlooms are unpredictable and may produce like crazy one year, followed by minimal harvests the next year. Heirlooms often develop slowly, which may be a problem for gardeners with short growing seasons. Hybrid varieties grow faster and are usually more dependable.
• Availability: Sometimes, heirloom plants are difficult to find, and available only at specialty growers or from other heirloom plant enthusiasts and seed-savers. Heirlooms may be expensive, while most hybrids are relatively inexpensive and readily available at most nurseries or garden centers.
• Size considerations: Heirloom plants require considerable space, while hybrids are bred to be more compact. Some heirlooms may require strong trellises or extensive pruning to keep big, sprawling plants above the soil. Hybrids are often a better choice for gardeners with space limitations. 

Growing heirloom plants is a fascinating hobby, and experimenting with unusual plants is interesting; however, if you're looking for dependable, high-quality produce that doesn't require a lot of fuss, you may decide that the downsides to heirloom planting outweighs the benefits. Overall, it is up to the individual gardener whether or not to include heirlooms in the garden.

Some people love them and others deplore morning glory flowers. But are there any benefits of morning glory vines in the garden? What about morning glory control? These are both valid questions and we will explore the answers here so you can decide if morning glory pros outweigh the cons of growing these plants in your garden.

Reasons to Grow Morning Glories

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) I have a great memory from childhood - checking on the morning glories that grew up the trellis in our backyard. I loved to see when they closed and that they opened again the next morning. These beautiful, vining flowers have a great sense of whimsy and magic about them and make a great addition to any garden, for both kids and adults.

Planting morning glory flowers isn't difficult and there are many other good reasons to grow morning glories in your flower garden. Here are some of the most important morning glory pros to inspire you to add this pretty flower to your garden:

Easy-to-grow vine. If you like vining plants, this is an easy one to grow. Morning glory thrives in a lot of conditions and grows quickly and readily. It will easily spread up any vertical surface you provide, requiring perhaps just a little guidance from you.

Gorgeous flowers that open at dawn. What could be more magical than watching pretty flowers open in the morning and shut down in the afternoon? The flowers are stunning, trumpet-shaped blooms that add color and quaintness to any kind of garden.

Unique blue flowers. There are few flowers you can put in the garden that are truly blue. Many blue flowers are really more lavender, but if you have ever seen a blue morning glory, it is bright, vibrant, cornflower blue and it is striking. Try the 'Heavenly Blue' variety for the best blue color.

Lower cooling costs. In the hot summer months, using morning glory vines to cover sun-soaked walls can actually reduce heat in your home.

Provide a quick screen. Because morning glory vines grow quickly, you can get a fast screen for ugly areas of your yard or for privacy.

Attract pollinators. Bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators are drawn to these trumpet-shaped flowers, so you will be supporting the local ecosystem by growing morning glories.

Stay Away from Morning Glory Weeds

(Laura's viewpoint) Are morning glory vines noxious weeds or beautiful native plants? Some gardeners feel it's all in the eyes of the beholder. I disagree. As members of a community, gardeners are not only responsible for the plants growing on their property, but also for the plants which have escaped from their gardens. With so many other beautiful flower varieties available, why risk it? My cons of morning glories? Here you go:

Vigorous, highly competitive plant. Of the many cons of morning glories, the fact they're highly competitive, vigorous growing vines is the primary reason some gardeners feel they are weeds. It's not uncommon for morning glories to grow 15 feet (4.5 m.) in a season. They spread rapidly and can quickly crowd out other garden plants. They grow in any type of soil, which makes it more difficult to eradicate the morning glory. Control of unwanted morning glories is best achieved by pulling young vines, but herbicides can also be used.

Limited flowering. As their name implies, morning glories have a limited bloom time. Shade stimulates the blossoms to shrivel, so planting morning glories in anything less than full sun means they will only bloom a fraction of the day. This greatly inhibits their ability to contribute to a showy flower garden.

Confusion with bindweed. One of the most important reasons to pull morning glories out of the garden is their similarity to bindweed. Also called creeping jenny, bindweed has flowers and leaves which are amazingly similar to morning glory. Seasoned gardens may be able to make the distinction, but identifying bindweed might be difficult for the neighbors. Those admiring morning glory in your garden may unintentionally cultivate bindweed. This invasive weed is not only tough to eradicate, it's also toxic to children and pets. The seeds pose the biggest threat.

Morning glory control is difficult. Even though morning glories are grown as annuals outside of tropical climates, one would hardly know it based on their ability to self-seed. Plant these vines one season and year after year gardeners find more morning glory. Control of this aggressive weed-like plant can only be achieved by deadheading the flowers before they produce seeds. If the gardener misses one year's batch of seeds due to an illness, injury or family problem, it's all too easy for this very competitive vine to escape unnoticed.

Another of the reasons to pull morning glories when they first appear is their resistance to herbicides as they mature. Both systemic and broadleaf herbicides are most effective when used on young morning glory vines. At this stage, gardeners may find it easier to remove the twining vines by hand as there's less risk of overspray reaching other desirable plants. Once the plants mature, they can be difficult to remove.

Planting Morning Glory Flowers

Laura goes on to say that "the difficulty in controlling the unintentional spread of these vines is the primary reason I don't grow morning glory. Weeds and weeding are my least favorite aspects of gardening. I don't want to plant annuals which vigorously return every year, especially since it can take years to eradicate unwanted morning glories from the garden. I feel there are so many more flowers with positive attributes I can choose for my garden."

On the other hand, Mary Ellen feels there are many benefits of morning glory vines, not least of which is the sense of magic they bring to a flower garden. "Perfect for a trellis, fence, back deck or patio, or even to beautify a mailbox, these lovely vines will grow nearly anywhere and add a touch of color and whimsy."

With such strong feelings for and against the planting of morning glories, it can only be left up to the individual gardener to decide whether or not these flowers are worth it in the end. Our recommendation is to thoroughly research the morning glory plants beforehand to ensure what you are actually planting is, indeed, an annual morning glory species and that you're willing to put in the extra maintenance that may be required in keeping it manageable.

Some people love arborvitae, and some hate them. Before you take a stand on one side of the aisle or the other, be sure you understand their advantages and downsides. The group of evergreen shrubs known as arborvitae is commonly used in the home, urban, and suburban landscape, to the point of being overused.

Arborvitae shrubs and trees have their pros, but there are enough cons, and enough better alternatives, to choose other evergreen species. Of course, we'll leave this up to you to decide as we explore both the benefits of arborvitae planting and reasons why you shouldn't plant arborvitae in the landscape.

Pros of Planting Arborvitae

(Teo's viewpoint) If you want an easy-care, fast-growing evergreen that creates the hedge or privacy screen you need in record time, arborvitae can't be beat. And they are lovely specimen tree too. Arborvitaes (Thuja spp.) are evergreen members of the cypress family. They thrive in many regions in this country, with some varieties that do well in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 to 11, though more varieties grow in the cooler zones than the warmest ones.

Fast-growing and evergreen - Arborvitae rose to the top of the popularity list thanks to the fast-growing, easy-care ways of these trees. And if you judge them by these terms, they still cannot be beat. Arborvitae is a very fast-growing tree or shrub and that alone has won it many fans. Most gardeners thinking about a privacy hedge or wind screen wish they had acted months or years earlier, so the rapid growth that arborvitae trees show is a great advantage.

Even if you are growing an arborvitae as a specimen tree, it's nice to see it shoot up from seedling to "tree" in record time. It's a shame that so few gardeners view arborvitae as real trees, since, planted alone and allowed to mature, they are lovely evergreens.

Just how fast does this species grow? Each species has its own growth rate, but some grow a full 3 feet (1 m.) or more each year and achieve soaring heights of 15 or 20 feet (4.5 to 6 m.) tall. The fact that they are evergreen means that the privacy protection or wind block lasts all year long.

Undemanding and easy-care - Arborvitae is not a picky plant. Although the trees prefer deep soil with excellent drainage, they can grow happily in most kinds of soil. Just be sure that the site gets some sun and is large enough to accommodate the tree's full size. Once an arborvitae is established, you don't need to do much to tend it. These trees have no serious pest or disease issues, don't require fertilizer or pruning to thrive, and are moderately drought tolerant.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't irrigate, though, since the healthier the trees are, the stronger is their resistance to any pests in the area. And if your arborvitae trees get too tall, don't hesitate to prune them back. They accept pruning and shearing with grace. Opt for loppers that can extend up to branches, like these Fiskars 28" Heavy-Duty Loppers from Amazon. But never prune the trees back to bare stems since they usually won't regrow.

Inexpensive and beneficial for wildlife - Another of the arborvitae pros is its price. You can usually find arborvitae plants that are inexpensive, especially if they are fairly small. And, given how fast they grow, your hedge won't be delayed very long if you buy the younger shrubs.

Since arborvitae are evergreen, birds, squirrels and small mammals find shelter in their dense branches all year long. Some trees also provide nurture in the form of seeds. In this day and age, taking care of nature in all its forms is important.

Cons of Planting Arborvitae

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) Many people turn to arborvitae for screening and privacy for a variety of reasons, and some of these are good. For instance, they grow quickly, giving you a tall screen in just a few years. Arborvitae are also easy to find in your local nursery and easy to grow in the right conditions - all this is true. But there are some serious issues and reasons to look for alternatives if you're planning a hedge or screen in your landscape. These arborvitae disadvantages need to also be considered.

Arborvitae can be sensitive - A major draw for arborvitae is that they are low maintenance, but this is only true if you can give them ideal conditions. They will quickly brown in a drought and poorly tolerate dry winds and salt. The typical response to stress is to brown and drop needles, sometimes permanently.

They're just plain boring - This may not be the case with for everyone, but in my neighborhood, you can hardly walk a block without seeing a row of tightly packed arborvitae. These shrubs have simply been overused. Variety is good.

Arborvitae shrubs split and break easily - These shrubs often throw out double leaders, a tendency that makes them susceptible to unsightly branch breaks. A brisk wind or a pile up of snow in winter may be all it takes to create a gap in your hedge.

Deer and bagworms love arborvitae - Teo is right about wildlife, but if you live in a region with a lot of deer with no natural predators, watch as they chew down your hedge. Deer will nibble away at arborvitae, especially in winter when greenery is harder to find.

Bagworms will also eat your arborvitae. Arborvitae varieties generally don't have a lot of pests, but bagworms can do a lot of damage. They eat the needles and can spread quickly, especially since most of these shrubs are planted so close together.

How to Remedy Arborvitae Disadvantages

Arborvitae trees and shrubs aren't all bad, it's true. But because they can become unsightly due to needle drop and branch breaks, and because bagworms spread through them like wildfire, break up the monotony and use some other types of evergreen hedges. Great alternatives include upright varieties of juniper and some types of holly and cypress.

If you are planning to still put in arborvitae, use these shrubs and trees as part of a mix of species for a healthier ecosystem and better overall appearance.

Choice of containers is largely a matter of personal taste, but if you're committed to old-fashioned clay, you might want to try plastic containers instead of clay. Plastic containers have evolved over the last couple of decades and offer a number of advantages, at least for Mary, over old-fashioned clay pots. As a lifelong plant freak, Bonnie has experience with containers for plants too.

While many of our new plants will come to us in plastic containers from a nursery or big box store, should you keep them in those pots? There is more than aesthetics at stake here. The health of your plant could be in jeopardy if you keep it in that convenient plastic container. Let's see which side of the question you are on and if either of our writers can change your mind.

Pros of Clay Pots vs. Plastic Containers

(Bonnie's viewpoint) One of my favorite plant groups are cacti and succulents. Their amazing variety of form, adaptability, and ease of care make them a no brainer for houseplant enthusiasts. The type of container you keep these in, however, is a subject up for debate. Are there benefits of clay pots vs. plastic? I have a very definite opinion and several reasons why you should use clay over plastic.

Plastic isn't very eco-friendly. Plastic containers may be lighter and readily available, but they aren't environmentally friendly. Conversely, clay or natural terra cotta containers are made from a special soil that will eventually break back down into its original components should the pot break. Those pot shards are also excellent used in the bottom of larger pots to increase drainage.

Among the problems with plastic containers are their contribution to litter and health problems in humans and animals. Many municipalities do not offer recycling of plastics and those used items just go into the landfill where they release petrochemicals and other bi-products of their construction. We are literally drowning in plastic items that don't break down easily and when they eventually do, only release tiny particulates that clog our soil and oceans. Just look at the plastic bag and straw debates already raging and see if using a plastic container fits into our ecological goals.

Clay is more adaptable. While not a long-term solution, when I do purchase plants, I try to buy ones that come in compostable pots. This doesn't work to keep plants for the duration and are only meant for quick transplant into the garden. One of the many pros of clay pots is their reusability but there are other reasons to use this natural material to house our plants. You can use glazed pots, but I prefer to avoid the chemicals in the coating and use unglazed containers, which help remove excess moisture by evaporation.

Plastic remains wet. The plastic has no porosity and plants are prone to staying too wet. Clay allows movement of air and water. This can mean more watering in certain plant species but is useful to prevent root rot and soil fungus. This action helps prevent certain insect pests that like moisture too. They're perfect for cacti and succulents because the soil will dry quicker and the walls are thick and protective.

Clay pots care heavier. The pros of clay pots over plastic include their durability. Useful in households with active children or pets because they are heavier and harder to tip over. Their weight makes them good for hardening off seedlings outdoors where wind might topple lightweight plastic. Sunlight also causes plastic to become brittle over time.

Clay is attractive with lots of variety. Other benefits of clay over plastic are that they develop a lovely patina over time. They're relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes.

Advantages of Plastic Pots Instead of Clay

(Mary's viewpoint) Yes, there are many benefits to clay but I feel the pros of plastic pots are far better alternatives. And these are my reasons why.

Variety. One of the advantages of plastic pots is that they, too, are available in a huge variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, including whimsical designs. But unlike terra cotta pots, you can easily select plastic containers to harmonize with your décor, or to set off the color of your home's exterior.

Water retention. Yes, plastic pots hold more water than clay, but this makes them an ideal choice for plants that thrive in moist soil, or if you tend to forget to water. One of the downsides to clay pots is that clay is porous. Clay pots wick water and potting mix dries out faster which means you need to water plants more.

Durability. Newer plastic pots are tough, durable, and virtually unbreakable. A major downside to clay is that the pots are easily cracked or chipped, which rarely occurs with plastic pots. Clay pots are likely to break during freezing weather, but plastic pots are more flexible and are usually able to withstand repeated freeze/thaw cycles all winter long.

Lightweight. Do you like to move your plants from place to place? The weight of the containers is one of the downsides to clay. Plastic is lighter and even larger pots can be easily relocated.

Price. The pros of plastic pots include the reasonable price. Clay pots are often hugely expensive, but high-quality plastic pots can usually save you a few dollars. If you want to change pots from time to time, using plastic pots instead of clay won't break the bank.

Recyclability. As gardeners, we are concerned about our impact on the environment, especially single-use plastic, but today's higher-quality plastic pots are often recyclable. Look at the bottom of the pot for information about recyclability. Be sure the pot is clean before you take it to the recycling center.

Clay Over Plastic or the Other Way Around?

Plastic and clay pots each have certain advantages and disadvantages, but if you think plastic pots are flimsy or tacky, it's time to take a second look. Newer, higher grade plastic pots rival clay in terms of variety, durability, and appearance. But for some people, like Bonnie, who's a clay pot girl, their view is different.

The versatility, availability, economical and reusable nature of clay pots appeal to those with tree hugging sentiments and somewhat tight with a dollar. Bonnie does add, "I do save my plastic pots when I purchase plants that come in such containers and use them until they crack and crumble. But when it comes to transplanting a new specimen or propagating from one that is ready to have babies, I reach for my clay pots. Nothing looks as natural and appealing to me as a nicely aged clay pot with a tumble of new plants, both indoors and out."

Ivy gets a bad rap, but it's an attractive vine that is easy to grow. Sure, it can take charge and cover more things than you intended, but responsible English ivy growing is possible. There are plenty of English ivy pros, and we hope you'll consider them before banning this plant from your yard altogether.

English Ivy Pros - Responsible English Ivy Growing

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) There are many naysayers who will tell you to avoid this plant like the plague, but I think there are several reasons to plant English ivy and enjoy it in the garden or indoors:

Ivy complements, not kills trees. A common misconception about English ivy is that it will kill trees as it climbs up the trunks. Ivy is a shade-loving plant, so it will stay beneath the canopy and will not block the tree from getting sunlight. Only in cases of weakened or unhealthy trees is ivy harmful. The beauty of climbing vines on a tree trunk is one reason to let ivy do its thing in your yard.

Ivy makes a nice shady groundcover. Ivy doesn't have to climb. If you're willing to maintain it, you can keep English ivy at ground level. And, since it grows well in shady areas, you can use ivy as a pretty, dark green groundcover in those areas where it's difficult to get anything else to grow.

English ivy makes a beautiful potted topiary. Grow ivy in a container, indoors or outdoors, and because it climbs so well, you can train it to grow into a pretty topiary. Use a wire form to create the shape you want, and before you know it this fast-growing vine will fill it out and give you a gorgeous potted plant. It's easy to regularly trim ivy to keep it the size and shape you want. Even without a topiary shape, English ivy is easy to grow in containers and makes a nice, hands-off house plant.

Choose from varied cultivars. The English ivy that most people are familiar with has glossy, dark green leaves, but there are many other cultivars with different colors and leaf shapes. You can get diversity in the garden with these pretty options. Examples include 'Anne Marie,' with its variegated leaves and white margin; 'Buttercup,' which has light green leaves in the shade and bright yellow leaves in the sun; and 'Jubilee,' with gray green variegation and miniature leaves.

English Ivy Problems - Cons of Planting English Ivy

(Mary's viewpoint) With its profusion of shiny, dark green leaves, there's no doubt that English ivy is a lovely plant, and because it's an evergreen, it remains beautiful year round. Unfortunately, this nonnative climber is an invasive thug in the Pacific Northwest, and is also considered invasive in California and many southeastern states, including Mississippi, Tennessee, and Virginia. Wondering about the disadvantages of English ivy?

English ivy escapes easily from home gardens. Even if you grow ivy in pots, which may seem safe, birds can transfer the seeds for many miles.

Quickly grows and strangles nearby plants. Once ivy is established in the wild, it can grow as much as 15 feet (5 m.) every year, strangling any native plants or trees in its path. Even tall, mature trees are deprived of air and sunlight, and because they are so unhealthy and weighed down by the heavy vines, they are more likely to break or topple over in a windstorm.

It's not easy to get rid of. Clearing ivy from the trunk isn't as easy as it sounds, as the roots can become intermingled with the roots of the tree, and rodents and insect pests find shelter in the dense foliage. Taxpayers in the Oregon and Washington have paid millions of dollars in attempts to manage English ivy problems.

Damages other structures. English ivy can also do severe damage to buildings when the rootlets attach themselves. The plants can stick so firmly that they remove paint, damage siding, and can even grow through window casings into the inside of the building.

These plants are toxic. If that's not enough, consider that English ivy berries and leaves are toxic if ingested, and the sap can cause severe skin irritation.

How to Avoid the Disadvantages of English Ivy

Responsible English ivy growing is not hard. It's just a matter of being a thoughtful gardener and deciding where and to what extent you'll let your ivy roam.

If it still makes you nervous to work with this plant, keep it contained and enjoy pretty ivies in pots.

If you live in a part of the country with English ivy problems and you're in the market for an attractive perennial vine, or if you need a good groundcover for a difficult area, consider alternatives such as crinkle-leaf creeper (Rubus pentalobus), native Western honeysuckle (Lonicera cilosa), or climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala).

Whether wishing to grow nutritious fruits and vegetables or looking to add vibrant color through annual flowers, the pros to gardening in grow bags are undeniable. Increasingly popular in recent years, grow bags are an invaluable asset to those gardening in small or less than optimal spaces. In addition to their versatility, grow bags offer gardeners a quick and easy way to establish lush, healthy landscapes.

While it's difficult to downplay the pros to gardening in grow bags, there are some cons of using grow bags that must be considered too. The fabric grow bags are, by nature, soft but should we necessarily go "soft" on the valid concerns and questions they raise?

Pros to Gardening in Grow Bags

(Tonya's viewpoint) Fabric pots can be found in the gardens of both professional growers and home gardeners. Their ease of use, in addition to accessibility, are just a few reasons to use grow bags. Though there are many types, it is best to select bags comprised of breathable and strong fabrics. These bags allow for durability, as well as contribute to better overall plant health.

Can be used anywhere. Many gardeners begin using grow bags when wishing to expand their home garden space. In fact, one of the biggest grow bag advantages is being able to grow plants in places which were previously considered unusable, such as in rented yards or even small apartment balconies.

Can use in areas with bad soil. Growers with heavy soils may specifically choose these bags as a means by which they are able to grow more successful crops of root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes. If your soil isn't quite up to par, using a grow bag can fix that. Much like a raised bed or container, you can grow plants in a looser, healthier soil.

Ease of use. The ease of which grow bags are assembled make them a viable and cost-effective option for many people. Without the need to remove grass or prepare beds with the use of tools, even novice gardeners are able to create impressive vegetable gardens and displays filled with annual flowering plants.

Bags are breathable. Additional pros to gardening in grow bags relate to factors that can directly impact the health of the plants grown. High quality fabric grow bags allow for excellent drainage, so issues related to overwatering are alleviated. Frequent problems that occur with other containers, such as root rot, are not a common cause for concern when using grow bags.

Plants produce heathier root growth. Improved overall root health is one of the main grow bag advantages. As the plant roots become established in the bag, their sensitivity to heat and moisture naturally begin the process of "air pruning." Simply, this process allows the plant to create a more robust root system.

Grow Bag Gardening Downsides

(Shelley's viewpoint) No one can really argue that using grow bags is all bad, BUT before you run out and buy them, it's a good idea to know some of the downsides that you'll be facing. This way you can make a more informed decision. These may include:

Durability. Grow bags do not last quite as long as hard-bodied containers. It seems that the general consensus is that fabric pots last 2-3 growing seasons, with some suggesting that they might last as long as 4-6 seasons. This, of course, will vary with the environmental conditions the bags are subjected to and the overall quality of the bag you purchase.

Cost. If grow bags do not last as long as other container options, you will want to ensure that they are more cost effective, as you will be replacing them more often. And the cost savings may not really compute for you. The cost of grow bags can vary depending on the growing capacity of the bag and the manufacturer/retailer. A five-gallon bag, for example, can start around $6 on up. If you're replacing the grow bag every 2-3 years, this will add up over time.

Aesthetics. Grow bags aren't as pretty or chic as a ceramic or terra cotta pots. The bags are typically a solid color (oftentimes black or gray) and do not come in patterns or designer motifs. Hard bodied pots, in contrast, have more flair. They are more shapely (funnel, cone-shaped, etc.) and typically have some character to them with glazes or paints applied to the surface and textural interest with ridges and raised shapes. A grow bag, on the other hand, looks just like, well, a bag or sack.

Environmental concerns. The grow bags that are available on the market aren't all eco-friendly, as they are not all biodegradable. Many are formed with poly plastics that don't break down. This becomes a concern when the grow bags need to be discarded and replaced.

Very water consumptive. Grow bags require more watering than traditional pots do and this is one of the biggest grow bag gardening downsides if you don't have a lot of extra time on your hands. Grow bags are porous, meaning excess water will wick out of them rather quickly. This is an advantage in that the risk of over-watering your plants is very slim; however, it is a con of using grow bags for they will dry out quickly and you will need to water more frequently.

Mobility. While grow bags seem to be touted for their mobility, this is not always the case. Grow bags are available in 1 to 200+ gallon size bags. Any bags over 20 gallons may be difficult to move once they are planted because they do not have sturdy walls or structural strength like traditional pots and, in some cases, have weak fabric handles prone to tearing.

How Grow Bag Advantages Compare Overall to Their Drawbacks

Though there are several reasons to use grow bags, their use may not be needed in all gardens. Grow bags can be a good alternative but they are not necessarily the best option for everyone when you weigh the disadvantages of grow bags. They are short lived, not-so-pretty growing vessels that may nickel and dime you over the long term while demanding more of your time when it comes to watering. That being said, in some situations, well-maintained fabric pots allow for greater flexibility, and their ease of use and quick installation make the prospect of creating beautiful gardens more attainable.

For centuries, our ancestor's medical needs were taken care of with local plants. These herbal remedy pros knew just what root, leaf, or flower to use for almost any complaint. Modern pharmaceuticals have much to recommend but contain harmful and habit-forming chemicals and compounds. Wouldn't it be better to harvest the benefits of medicinal herbs where possible and reduce exposure to toxins for you and your family?

Herbal Remedy Pros

(Bonnie's viewpoint) Nature's bounty offers us not only food, shelter and materials but a helping hand in the health department. Botanical medicines are known to be effective for:

• cardiovascular disease
• gastrointestinal issues
• circulation
• hormone regulation
• liver and kidney functions
• urinary tract health
• reproductive functions
• skin, bone and muscle health
• boosting the immune system

They offer numerous health benefits. In addition to helping specific medical complaints, like those above, plant medicines offer phytonutrients and antioxidants. Other herbal remedy pros include potential anti-coagulant, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Many are proven effective. There are many studies available to prove effectiveness of certain herbal medicines; however, due to the variation in wild plants and in test subjects, the conclusions usually vary. In most cases, herbal remedies cause less chance of side effects and toxic build up when used correctly.

They're easy to grow for free. Many of the most commonly used botanicals can be easily grown in your backyard or in containers. That means they are practically free which is a far cry from most pharmaceutical costs. Tinctures, teas and ointments are quite easy to prepare, even for a novice.

Most are readily available. Herbal medicines are easy to find in health food stores. Contrary to popular opinion, herbals are regulated. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act was set up so the FDA could regulate finished herbal products and monitor proper labeling and packaging.

Problems with Herbal Remedies

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) While there are many people who have benefitted from herbal remedies, there is no guarantee that these products or plants will be safe or even effective. Some of the problems with herbal remedies include lack of regulation, poisoning, no dosing recommendations, and specific, potentially serious health problems:

No regulation. Herbal supplements and other products are not regulated in the U.S. This means that claims made by manufacturers regarding safety and efficacy have not been evaluated and cannot necessarily be trusted. You also cannot rely on adequate quality control for these products, meaning contamination, purity, and concentration may be issues.

No dosing. Supplements may come with dosing recommendations, but these have also not been evaluated. There is a real risk with herbals, both from store-brought supplements and homemade remedies, that you will take too much and suffer from toxic effects.

Poisoning. For people who harvest and use their own herbals, there is a very real risk of poisoning. You must be very knowledgeable about what you are growing or foraging to avoid using something that is actually toxic and that could poison you.

Drug interactions. Doctors should always ask their patients what supplements or herbs they use because dangerous interactions with medications are common. For instance, saw palmetto, a common herbal used to try to treat prostate cancer magnifies the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner. This can lead to dangerous bleeding.

Better treatment from medicine. Among the dangers of medicinal herbs, one that is not so obvious is that use of these can prevent someone from getting better results from medical care. Again, saw palmetto is sometimes used to try to treat prostate cancer, but research has not found it to be effective. A patient may be risking his life using this herb instead of getting real medical treatment.

Knowing the Dangers of Medicinal Herbs Beforehand is Important

Among the many cons of herbal medicine, health risks are the most important. Many people assume that something natural from a plant will be safe, but this is not always the case. Herbal remedies, supplements, and botanical medicines may have some important benefits, but there are some serious risks to using these so-called natural substances. Unless you really know your stuff, you could be risking your health and well-being by relying on herbals.

How to Use Herbal Medicines Safely

There have been some cases where herbal concoctions caused potentially dangerous interactions with prescribed drugs, so it is wise to consult your doctor before using natural medications. The benefits of medicinal herbs are best used under a professional's care, whether a traditional Western doctor or a licensed herbalist. Only use preparations from companies with solid reputations and that have been approved by the FDA.

If you are wild foraging to make your own supplements, obey local law and property rights, educate yourself, and only harvest what you can use. Home gardeners can enjoy many herbal remedy pros by simply growing a culinary herb garden. Homemade teas and using herbs in cooking can still harness herbal medicine positives without worrying about chemicals and drug costs.

You may decide to plant a tree in order to beautify your backyard, provide shade in the hot summer, or create a privacy curtain to shield your garden from curious eyes. But the actual benefits - or detriments - extend well into the future. Tree planting advantages are obvious, but unless you are careful about tree selection and maintenance, you may also experience serious downsides. Read on for a full discussion of tree planting pros and cons.

Pros - Trees Planting Advantages

(Teo's viewpoint) If you ever search for reasons to plant a tree, just take a drive around the neighborhood. Look up and down the avenues and note how tree-lined streets just feel safer, happier and healthier than those with only cement sidewalks and parked cars.

They offer unending beauty. One of the primary reasons we plant trees is for their relaxing beauty. They also provide shade in hot summer weather and a connection to nature. The color green reduces stress, and flowering or fruit trees also provide additional eye-candy. But improving the visuals of your yard or neighborhood is only one of many tree planting pros.

Trees help the environment. By planting trees, you also help make the world a better place. Appropriately planted trees can reduce noise pollution by blocking sound waves, reducing noise by up to 40 percent. They reduce air temperature by blocking sunlight and serve as a natural air conditioner as water evaporates from the leaf surfaces, removing heat energy from the air.

They help reduce pollution. Another tree planting advantage is that these woody plants trap dust, pollen and smoke from the air. Pollution is significantly reduced on the sheltered side of a tree. And they also help prevent surface water runoff.

Trees improve air quality. Perhaps the most important advantages of tree planting in these troubled times is how they assist with climate change by reducing the greenhouse effect. Trees absorb harmful gasses from the air, including carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide. In return, they release oxygen (which we need to breathe). The amounts in question are impressive. While every gallon of gas you burn produces some 20 pounds of carbon dioxide, a big, healthy tree can take up and store 13 pounds of carbon every year. That means that an acre of trees gets rid of 2.6 tons of carbon dioxide.

Trees provide shelter. That tree you've planted in the landscape help to provide habitat for many animals, birds and insects - just another reason to add more.

Cons - Problems with Planting Trees

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) Of course, trees aren't bad; everyone loves these majestic plants. But that doesn't mean there aren't any cons of planting trees in your yard or garden, or that trees are right for every space. There are some very valid reasons that you may want to reconsider putting in that new tree and opting for shrubs or flower beds instead.

Among the downsides of tree planting are costs, effort, maintenance, space limitations, and more. Yes, trees are pretty and offer shade, but they can also be real pain. Here are some very real problems with planting trees you just don't want to have to face:

Trees are expensive. As compared to a compact little shrub or some native perennials, a tree is pricey. Expect to pay up to $200 each as well as any extra costs if you are having a landscaping company put them in. Mature trees are more expensive than little ones.

They'll wreak havoc above and below ground. If you don't have the right space for a tree that will grow from tiny to massive, that tree can cause a lot of damage. Under the ground, its roots can hit and break water lines and pipes, while up in the air the branches need to be trimmed or they may take down power lines.

Trees tend to grow slowly. So you take the time and pay the costly price of putting a tree in the ground and then wait, and wait. You want a big, beautiful tree with mature canopy and shade, but it could be decades before you get it. It's not always worth the effort and time.

Maintenance is a must with trees. Sure, your other plants need to be maintained too, but not on the scale of a tree. Trees must be pruned and trimmed regularly; they drop leaves that you have to deal with every single fall, and trees may also make a big mess in the spring and summer with seeds and fruits that you'll have to clean up.

Definitely avoid fruit trees if you want low maintenance. If you need a low-maintenance yard or garden, whatever you do don't plant fruit trees. These trees are finicky and time-intensive. They require pruning, harvesting, and then cleanup when inevitably you can't keep up with all the fruit. You'll also have to protect it from insects and birds and watch for diseases, which are pretty common in fruit trees.

Do Reasons to Plant Trees Exceed the Cons?

Okay, the cons of planting trees may seem overwhelming when you really think about it. Unless you have unlimited space, money, and labor, avoid putting in new trees and stick with more manageable, cost-effective plants for your garden and yard. That said, the reasons for planting trees range from making your grounds more attractive to reducing the effects of global warming. While planting the wrong tree in the wrong place can result in serious problems, planting the right tree is the right place is always a good idea.

Also known as touch-me-not, rose balsam, garden balsam or jumping betty, balsam flower (Impatiens balsamina) is beautiful and easy to grow - so easy, in fact, that this self-sowing plant can become a weedy nuisance in certain areas. There are many reasons to grow balsam flowers in the garden, and if you've got space for this rambunctious plant to spread, you won't be disappointed - unless the following balsam plant negatives change your mind. Remember, there are always two sides to consider.

Balsam Flower Planting Pros

(Mary's viewpoint) Balsam flower is an annual plant that hales from Southeast Asia. Compact, double forms are the most common and available in a stunning array of colors that white and shades of red, salmon, lilac, orange, purple, rose or pink, either solid colored or variegated. This variety in color and form is probably the most popular reason to grow these old-fashioned beauties in the garden, but here are some more: They attract pollinators and keep coming back. Because balsam flowers re-seed themselves prolifically, you'll have masses of bright, long-lasting blooms to attract butterflies again and again. Balsam flowers also attract sphinx moths (also known as hawk moths or hummingbird moths), which hover and sip nectar from the sweet blooms. They can be used for herbal remedies. Herbalists use crushed balsam flowers, often in poultice form, to relieve a number of ailments, including burns and scalds, warts, torn nails, snakebites and various inflammations of the skin. They're tough plants. Balsam flower pros include the plant's ability to thrive in shady areas and moist woodland gardens. Once established, balsam flowers require very little care and they'll bloom even during your worst summer heat waves. Just amend the soil with a little well-rotted manure or compost before planting, then keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Balsam flowers benefit from a light application of dry or water-soluble fertilizer every couple of weeks throughout the growing season - but even without fertilizer, these plants will generally thrive just fine.

Cons of Growing Balsam Flowers

(Nikki's viewpoint) First off, I won't try denying the beauty and hardiness of these impatiens relatives. In fact, it is for this reason that I added them to my own garden years ago. That and the fact that the flowers are great for attracting pollinators to the area. So why then would I want to ask others to think twice before planting balsam flowers? They can take over, quickly! When it comes to balsam plant negatives, there is really only one, but it's an important one. These flowers are prolific self-seeders! Like its cousin Himalayan balsam, this plant reproduces by seed, and lots of them every year. And it is from their seed in which you'll find their well-earned nickname of touch-me-not, as with just the slightest touch, the seed pods burst open, flailing the seeds everywhere, including areas you don't want them. I found this out firsthand the hard way after adding them around my veggie garden to entice more pollinators. They did their job well, and the bees and butterflies came. My vegetables grew and produced abundantly without fail. The garden looked pretty too, with the numerous colorful blooms. But come end of season, when the flowers faded and the fuzzy seed pods took their place, I pulled the annuals and tossed them aside...in the compost pile near the edge of the woods. And to my wonder, I soon found tons of seedlings popping up in the backyard veggie bed, in the compost, throughout the woods and even areas of the front lawn. EVERYWHERE! While it is recommended that cutting and hand pulling are the best methods of control, and ones in which I frequently employ, years later I continue to battle these menacing beauties. As with the horde of flies that seem to attend the funerals of each one you swat and kill, the more seedlings you pluck them, more seem to pop up to take their place. This year, in fact, they took over that vegetable plot, shading out many of my once thriving plants. They are susceptible to powdery mildew. In addition to its potential to become weedy in landscape, balsam plants are also prone to developing powdery mildew, which can affect nearby plantings.

Final Thoughts on Planting Balsam Flowers in Gardens

There are many reasons to grow balsam flowers in the garden, but it would be irresponsible not to forewarn others of their spreading nature. If you're looking for something less aggressive, then this plant isn't for you. Of course, if you don't mind the seedlings popping up in other areas of the landscape, or if you have plenty of room for the plants to grow and reseed each year, by all means enjoy! That being said, check with your local cooperative extension service beforehand since the plants may be considered invasive in some areas. If the experts give you the go-ahead, grab some seeds and get busy.

For those in the know, nature is the largest, free grocery store, providing organic produce right to your table. All it takes is knowledge or a guide to which plants can be eaten. Mushroom hunting is one of the most common reasons to harvest from the wild, but there are many other types of food that can be found. Broadening your culinary options and enjoying a day out in nature are just two wild foraging positives, but there are many more. But while you may think wild harvesting is simply gathering blackberries hunting for mushrooms in the forest, collecting wild plants and taking them home for personal use can have drawbacks too. For this reason, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with both the pros and cons of wild harvesting.

Wild Harvesting Pros

(Bonnie's viewpoint) The indigenous people of any locale could tell you all about wild harvesting pros, as many once subsisted almost solely on what they could find in the wild and used plants as medicine or for fabric and dye, building materials and food. As long as any foraged item is abundant and the gatherer follows all local laws to prevent overharvesting, nature's free food and medicine is a sustainable resource. Need more reasons to harvest from the wild? Conscientious gathering of wild plants can lead to a healthier life. Many of our native species offer natural healing properties, helping reduce reliance on pharmaceutical solutions. Less chemicals in the body ultimately lead to less toxins in the land. As a food source, wild harvesting allows the gatherer to experience nature's bounty and new tastes, textures and senses. Here's a list of wild foraging positives:

• Enjoy nature
• Exercise
• Health and medical benefits
• Removal of invasive, nonnative plants (i.e. garlic mustard)
• Provides a connection to the earth and your place in it
• Nutritionally intact foods
• Provides survival skills
• Free food and medicine
• Reduces your carbon footprint
• Provides a new experience

Tips on wild foraging. If you are new to foraging, a good reference book or two will get you started on the right foot. Be respectful about gathering in restricted areas and on private property. Only take as much as you will use and leave plenty for wild animals and birds. Follow all governing guidelines as to which plants and how much you can take. In stands where plants are blooming, always leave plenty to finish flowering and produce seed. Save seed to grow wild foods on your property. Harvest over a large area to reduce your impact and leave no trace of your gathering activities. Harvest as many non-native plants as you can identify. This will help the native bio-diversity reassert itself while you get tasty and healthy food.

Cons of Wild Harvesting

(Liz's viewpoint) Wild harvesting is an interesting practice, at once a hot fad and an ancient tradition. But while it can be beneficial and even fun if done responsibly, there are several serious negatives of wild harvesting. Not all plants are good for you. Of all the wild foraging drawbacks, this one is often the most keenly felt. There's no regulation in the wild, no one to tell you what's what. It's all up to you, and even the most experienced foragers can get tripped up in their identification. And, unfortunately, those trip ups can sometimes have serious or even deadly consequences. (Those who deal with wild mushrooms are especially aware of this) It's important to know exactly what you're picking before you put it in your body. If you're not 100% sure, it's best to leave it be. Ecosystems are delicate. Plants are easy to over harvest. Some plants are rare, some are endangered. Even if a plant isn't considered threatened in your country, it might very well be in your area. And even plants that are considered common aren't completely safe, especially if wild harvesting a certain plant becomes in vogue, it may not be able to withstand the sudden increase of human impact. Nature is a delicate balance, and no resource is infinite. You don't know a wild plant's past. Unless a plant is growing in your own backyard, you can't know what exactly it's come into contact with, especially plants in public green spaces that may have been sprayed with who knows what, from pesticides to herbicides to fertilizers to"¦dare I say it"¦dog pee. Just because something's growing in the wild doesn't mean it's organic. Sometimes, it's quite the opposite. Wild harvesting isn't always legal. There isn't really such a thing as total wilderness or land that doesn't belong to anyone. Those woods you're wandering in may belong to the government or to a neighbor, and if you're there foraging without permission, you could get in serious trouble. Even public spaces where it's perfectly okay to walk are often none too keen on their plants being picked and carried off. Wild harvesting isn't always friendly. Some foragers have been at it for years and know the best spots, and since those spots have finite resources, they're none too eager to share. Try to get a mushroom gatherer to tell you some of their locations. You'll have a hard time. Even if you happen upon one of these spots by chance, you might be stepping on someone else's toes and, while it's not a legal matter, it's considered pretty bad form and could land you in hot water.

Final Thoughts on Wild Harvesting Positives vs. Drawbacks

A conscientious gatherer that adheres to natural laws and leaves no holes in the landscape should pose no problem to the wild landscape. Wild foraging can even be looked at as good stewardship and enhances the natural population of species. Foragers can take part in reseeding and protecting populations of important plants. The benefits of harvesting in the wild are much more than natural medicines and foods. It is a right and responsibility as we nourish our bodies and protect our flora and fauna. That being said, from legal to environmental to social to medical, there are a host of wild foraging drawbacks to take into consideration before you set out. If you're interested, you shouldn't let these deter you, but it's important to be very mindful of how you go about it, or you risk running into serious trouble. A few cases do exist where a food was overharvested and led to a shortage or even the demise of a species. Careful and studious harvesters know which species are okay to take without negatively impacting the environment. As with anything, do your homework!

Warm summer temperatures have everyone out in droves, including the mosquitoes. We've all heard about West Nile virus, Zika and Malaria, so summer is a good time to grab not only the sunscreen but the citronella candles too. Citronella is a common name for Cymbopogon nardus, a type of perennial grass with lemon-scented leaves. Essential oils distilled from the grass is often used as a repellent against mosquitoes, fleas and biting flies and is said to mask scents that attract the pests. The question is, does it work? And at what cost? Let's review the pros and cons of citronella for pest control.

Citronella Pros and Benefits

(Amy's viewpoint) Yes, repellents that contain DEET are more effective, but I tend to be leery of names like diethylnetatoluamide, if only because I can't pronounce them. Pronunciation aside, I find that there are other benefits of citronella. Before folks used citronella or DEET, they were relegated to using smoky fires or daubing themselves with mud to beat flying pests. While these practices may work, they aren't very practical. So, of course, people wanted to find a better way to repel insects, especially the ones that cause painful, even deadly, bites. Enter citronella, the best insect repellent thus far. Using citronella for pest control was actually an accident, but it beat smelling like a campfire with mud plopping off your nose, and I really can't see any reason not to use citronella. Here's my reasoning. It's natural and been around a long time. Oil of citronella is the active ingredient in products such as citronella candles. It is derived from two types of perennial grasses that are cultivated and harvested for their essential oils. It is a natural product that has not been chemically altered. For hundreds of years, it has been used medicinally, and today, is used in a variety of foods and drinks. Its insect repellence was accidentally discovered in 1901 when it was used as a fragrance in salon products. Conversely DEET is a synthetic compound that results from a reaction of toluic acid with thionyl chloride followed by a reaction with diethyl amine that was first synthesized in 1955. I don't have a doctorate in chemistry, so I prefer to use products that come from nature, like grass, which I understand. Anyway, citronella has 54 years of use on DEET, a proven track record. Citronella is safe and nontoxic. Another citronella pro is it's nontoxic, even to the insects it's repelling. It acts by masking scents, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid, that are attractive to pests. Few people have any sort of allergic reaction to the oil, and even if ingested, citronella won't affect a person negatively. It just passes through the system where it breaks down and is passed out in the urine. The same cannot be said of DEET. Canada has restricted the amount of DEET that a product can contain, citing safety concerns. The EPA, however, classifies citronella as a biopesticide with a nontoxic mode of action.

Cons - Reasons Not to Use Citronella

(Mary's viewpoint) Don't pin your hopes on citronella to repel pests, especially if you're traveling to an area where mosquitoes are known to carry dangerous diseases. If you're seeking a natural mosquito repellent, oil of lemon eucalyptus is more effective and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Here are just a few disadvantages of citronella pest control: Allergic reactions are not unheard of. Citronella is thought to be safe, although some people may experience a mild allergic reaction to the eyes or skin. Citronella shouldn't be used on children under six months of age unless directed by a physician. If you use citronella on young children, be careful not to apply the substance to their hands because they may rub it into their eyes or place their hands in their mouths. Information regarding safety and use is sketchy. Although it hasn't been proven, some people think citronella shouldn't be applied to the skin at all because it may increase the heart rate in certain people. It may also cause a mild cough or throat irritation if ingested. According to the United States EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), there is little to no toxicity in citronella oil, and it poses no risk to humans or animals. There is also no risk to bees and other pollinators. Health Canada, however, has expressed concern about the disadvantages of citronella, especially the safety of applying large amounts of citronella products used on the skin. The National Pesticide Information Center in the United States advises use of common sense when using citronella. For example, don't allow young children to apply citronella by themselves. Lack of scientific research. There aren't a lot of studies to support the idea that citronella actually repels mosquitoes. At best, products with a citronella base may keep pests at bay, and may reduce bites by about half, but only for a couple of hours at most. The oils evaporate quickly. Candles, which have a very weak concentration of citronella, are actually of very little use. As for plants, studies indicate they don't work at all on their own.

How Do the Benefits of Citronella Fare?

In the end, it's safe to say that most people would prefer using a nontoxic, natural product on their body and that of their family. In fact, you don't even have to apply citronella to the skin. It is found in candles, sprays and wristbands. And although the repellency is short term, there are other ways to mitigate the number of pests wanting to feast on you, such as limiting time outside at dusk, removing any standing water where mosquito larvae hatch, and wearing light colored clothing. A combination of these and a citronella candle should be more than enough to keep you bug free and enjoying the summer months.

Wisteria is one of the most elegant looking plants, with rapid growth and ease of care. Those delicate, drooping clusters of flowers on twining vines are a sight to behold in spring.

However, this plant has a sinister side of which its worshipers may not be aware. There are numerous reasons not to grow wisteria, especially if you are in certain regions. We'll list some disadvantages to planting wisteria and let you decide for yourself if you want this beautiful invader in your garden.

Wisteria Planting Pros

(Mary's viewpoint) The many benefits of wisteria are most prominent in spring with a spectacular display of pendulous, fragrant blooms. Planting wisteria in gardens is a popular pursuit, especially in the warm climates of the Southern United States.

It has great ornamental appeal. Wisteria is a hardy vine with dark, glossy leaves and clusters of hanging blooms that attract butterflies, bees and other pollinators in mid-to-late spring. The pea-like flowers may be bluish-lavender, purple, pink, red-violet, mauve or white, depending on the species. Watch for interesting, hanging seed pods that follow the blooms.

Wisteria is a vigorous grower. This vigorous grower climbs up any sturdy structure, gaining lengths of 30 feet (9 m) and sometimes much more. However, this isn't a vine for a flimsy fence or trellis and it usually isn't a good idea to plant it against a building. Even native wisteria, which is less invasive than Japanese wisteria, tends to be aggressive and can destroy paint or crawl under siding.

It's an easy vine to grow. More wisteria planting pros to consider include the fact that it is a cinch to grow and adaptable to nearly any soil types. Additionally, wisteria is easy to propagate from cuttings. Once established, wisteria is a long-lived plant that will provide beauty to the garden for many years.

The plant helps your soil. Like all members of the legume family, wisteria is a nitrogen-fixing plant, thus improving soil quality. The prunings make great mulch, but be sure the branches are dead, or you may end up with new vines wherever you spread the mulch.

Cons of Growing Wisteria

(Bonnie's viewpoint) Wisteria is undeniably an attractive plant with lovely flowers. Yet, it is a prolific self-seeder. There are many non-native varieties that spread and hybridize with our native version, and mature stems become thick and twine around anything, often causing damage.

They can become a nuisance. The Asian varieties need to be fully mature before flowering, often taking up to 15 years. These alien plants seem to love North America and are considered nuisance plants in many states. Additionally, Wisteria can grow up to 30 feet (9 m) in length, making it a huge plant to manage.

They can take over native plants. There are both Chinese and Japanese varieties. These non-native species are heavily used in the U.S. and elsewhere as ornamental vines. When these plants escape cultivation and grow in the wild, they can break limbs and even girdle tree trunks. The heavily leaved vines smother native flora and form dense thickets. Not only do native species get displaced, but the entire ecological balance is knocked off-kilter.

The American species is preferred as an ornamental plant, as it is a bit more tame than its Asian counterparts.

They are difficult to manage. Should you think twice about an already existing wisteria vine, keep in mind that the plant is notoriously hard to remove.

Not only will any seed left behind readily germinate, but any leftover vines that have rooted at internodes will produce new plants. Plus, those old stems will need to be cut with a saw and often quite a bit of damage is left behind from the heavy press of the vines.

Wisteria vines will take over your garden, fence, garage and house without annual pruning. In areas with heavy nitrogen content in soils, they put on a lot of weight in just one year and you will be forced to do a lot of maintenance just to keep the plant in check.

Of all the reasons not to grow wisteria, a conscientious gardener will find the recommended chemicals hair raising as well.

To kill the plant, cut it off at ground level and either dig up the root or monitor it consistently to remove new sprouts. Suffocate the stump with black plastic.

It's toxic. One of the scarier cons of growing wisteria is its toxicity. The seed pods it produces are quite ornamental and fuzzy, but the seeds inside are poisonous. Children and pets are at the most risk and a trip to the vet or emergency room will occur if ingestion happens.

Should You Be Planting Wisteria in Gardens?

There are many benefits of wisteria, but there are also significant drawbacks. So, if you're considering adding the plant to your landscape, please keep in mind the disadvantages to planting wisteria before you take that leap. The size, toxicity, strength of vines, management concerns and potential to invade make the wisteria vine a probable "no" in the garden.

Plant the native variety to minimize, but not eliminate, problems with invasiveness, as even the American species is high maintenance and poses a poison risk.

Locate the plant carefully and prune regularly to keep growth in check. With proper care, wisteria will grace your landscape for generations. That said, it may be far better to use natives like wild clematis, ground nut, dutchman's' pipe and other vines which seem to have better manners but spectacular blooms and foliage.

I know you've seen them even if only on late night infomercials - those green Topsy Turvy upside-down tomato planters. Some people think they look rather odd, but the fact is there are a number of reasons to grow tomatoes upside down. And while upside-down tomato planters have been a popular space-saving solution for at least a decade, what works for one person may not work for the next.

Here we'll discuss both sides, upside-down tomato pros versus the cons of upside-down tomatoes, and see if the systems are really worth using.

Pros - Reasons to Grow Tomatoes Upside Down

(Amy's viewpoint) As a gardener and one that has been plagued with space issues in the past, I feel there are numerous benefits of growing tomatoes upside down.

• You can have tomatoes with little to no garden space. The most glaringly obvious of upside-down tomato pros is the ability to maximize space. Space is at a premium on our little planet. If you watch television, the astonishing number of shows on tiny houses reinforces that fact. More and more people are living in increasingly smaller spaces. While this means a number of things, for those who like to garden, it means a surfeit of gardening space. The solution has become vertical gardening and growing tomatoes upside down is an excellent example of the method.
• They're flexible. Another benefit to growing tomatoes upside down is mobility. Tomatoes thrive in full sun and some gardeners just don't have sufficient sun in any one area to grow a good crop. Upside down planters can be moved so the plant gets the maximum sun exposure it needs to yield well. They can also be moved if bad weather (i.e. storms) are imminent.
• No staking or cages needed. Upside down tomato planters also do not need staking. Staking is usually required to help the plant support the weight of the growing fruit. Cherry types of tomatoes are recommended for use when growing tomatoes upside down. This smaller fruit does well when grown upside down.
• Pest and diseases are limited. Also, because the plant and fruit does not come into contact with the soil, growing tomatoes upside down reduces the incidence of soil borne issues such as pests and disease. In addition, upside down planters get better air circulation, which eliminates fungi and allows for better pollination.
• Maintenance is a breeze. Lastly, planting tomatoes in an upside-down manner is perfect for folks with limited mobility. It isn't easy to squat and stretch in the garden for some people. A hanging tomato plant eliminates the need to get down on your knees. They are easy to water as well as harvest without bending. Oh, and maybe even one of the best attributes of upside-down tomato growing? No weeds!

Cons - Drawbacks of Upside-Down Tomato Growing

(Bonnie's viewpoint) You've seen them. Those green sack-like planters with a tomato poked into a hole at the bottom. They go up in spring with a brave attempt to grow tomatoes, but if you take a walk, they are abandoned by midsummer. What could be the cause of this?

Gardeners discover that the systems simply don't work adequately. Sure, if you water daily and fertilize frequently, you might get some tomatoes, but most won't ripen well and only the smaller varieties are suitable for suspended growing. What are other drawbacks of upside-down tomato growing? There are concerns regarding plant size and weight, ability to hold moisture, lack of sunlight and a little biological reality that causes strange growth.

• There are weight issues to consider. Upside down planters need to be able to hold the combined weight of the planting medium, the plant itself and its fruit. That is a huge weight and one of the reasons why these planters are more commonly used with cherry or grape tomato varieties. If you want beefsteak tomatoes, you are out of luck, as the system simply won't support such a big plant and fruit.
• They require a lot more water. Another of the disadvantages of growing tomatoes upside down is the exposure of the root ball. It is right at the top, open to drying air and wind and the leaching, dryness of full sun exposure. You need to water that root ball often, sometimes even twice per day in really hot locations. Watering the system must be done slowly to soak the entire growing medium without splashing out all the soil.
• The fruit may become shaded out. Tomatoes need lots of sunshine to ripen properly. In an upside-down container, the bulk of the stems and leaves covers the fruit, preventing bright light from penetrating. The result will be several greenish orange fruits with poor flavor.
• Stems can become stressed. Tomatoes produce hormones called auxins which drive the stem growth. The hormones cause the tips of the branches to turn upward towards the light. In an upside-down scenario, this puts stress on the plant with the heavy fruit forming in a u-shaped branch. Wind or even heavy rain can really damage these already burdened stems.

How Drawbacks of Upside-Down Tomato Growing Compare to Pros

All in all, there are far more benefits to growing tomatoes upside down then any cons. They allow for easy harvest, eliminate soil born pests and disease, and can be moved from place to place. Upside down planters can be made from a variety of low-cost materials and can be reused year after year.

That said, while the idea is very clever, there may still be a need for some improvements to upside-down container gardens. Tomatoes will grow very well right side up without so many issues and their flavor will be much better with open exposure to light. If you have absolutely no space, by all means try the upside-down planters. However, it may be easier and have a better outcome to simply grow them right side up in a container.

Looking for additional tips on growing perfect tomatoes? Download our FREE Tomato Growing Guide and learn how to grow delicious tomatoes.

If you don't have much - or any - backyard garden space, your thoughts might turn to hanging baskets. These can work in a small patio container garden or even on a fire escape. And that's hardly the only hanging basket advantages. But planting in hanging baskets isn't for every crop or every space. And some gardeners see a number of hanging basket drawbacks. Read on for info on hanging basket pros and cons so you'll have the info to make up your own informed decision.

Pros - Why Use Hanging Baskets

(Teo's viewpoint) The question isn't why use hanging baskets but more like why not? In addition to allowing one to enjoy plants that may otherwise not be able to for lack of space, there are many reasons to add hanging plants to your home and garden. Here are just a few more hanging basket advantages for the gardener to consider: No worrisome pests. When you use containers that hang to plant flowers, herbs or crops, you create a little planting area that is isolated from the rest of your garden. This allows you to spend more time admiring your handiwork and less time taking care of plant problems. For example, your garden soil can hold many unpleasant surprises. Bugs, slugs and snails are just a few of the pests that lurk at ground level. All these threats can be avoided with hanging baskets. Crawling insects and pests can't usually leap up to where a basket is suspended. And bigger mammals that take out your plants, like rabbits, raccoons, skunks and even deer, won't have easy access either. Less soil problems. Keeping your flowers and veggies in suspended containers is also a quick and easy solution to soil problems. As anyone knows who has planted an in-ground garden, soil can have a host of issues other than bugs. Ideally, fruits, flowers and vegetables prefer well-draining soil that includes some organic material. But backyard soil doesn't all look like this. Soil can be poor, rocky, overly sandy, highly acidic or alkaline, or composed largely of clay with extremely poor drainage. Yes, with time and energy, you can transform your garden bed, but maybe you don't have the time right now, or maybe you don't know how. One of the great hanging basket advantages is that you can buy a sack of organic potting soil and minutes later, your little planting space is ready for crops. Easy access. Another of the hanging basket pros is the ease of tending plants that see eye to eye with you. No more crawling on your knees to plant, thin or weed. Compact container plantings have few weeds, but any that appear can be readily plucked out while you stand nearby. If you have flowers in your hanging basket, deadheading is easy. If you plant strawberries, harvest is a snap. This makes hanging baskets excellent for children and also seniors who aren't as flexible as they used to be. Plus, you can move the basket into or out of the sun as the seasons turn.

Cons - Reasons Against Hanging Baskets

(Shelley's viewpoint) I like hanging baskets just as much as the next person. I'm always tempted, driving by a garden center, to stop and buy one of the hanging baskets beckoning to me. They are pure eye candy, spilling over with colorful, bountiful blooms and lush foliage. I then do a reality check and know that it will be difficult (at least for me) to maintain that splendor throughout the entire growing season, so I take one last wistful look and keep on driving. The next time you're trying to rationalize a hanging basket purchase, do what I do and think of the reasons against hanging baskets discussed below. Too high maintenance. Plants in hanging baskets actually need more TLC than plants situated in the ground. This is one of the biggest cons of hanging baskets. Many of us tend to leave hanging baskets"¦well"¦hanging! Hanging baskets are not "set it and forget it." They dry out relatively fast and require frequent watering. They also need to be put on a regular fertilizer schedule because they will deplete the nutrients in the basket's planting mix rather quickly. Deadheading is another task that you should also be doing routinely to keep the blooms going and healthy. A hanging basket will deteriorate fast and become an eyesore if these tasks are neglected. And, once a basket is in decline, we start feeling guilty, take it down and hide the shameful reminder. Well, that's what I do anyways! Vacation care. While a plant sitter is generally a good idea in an extended absence for indoor and outdoor garden plants, it is even more important with hanging baskets, given that they are higher maintenance. This higher level of maintenance does increase the likelihood that you may not return to happy plants in your hanging baskets because, let's face it, your plants will not receive the same level of attentiveness and care as you provided. So, if you travel a lot, you will want to take hanging basket drawbacks like this into consideration. Water damage. This is something I never thought about until browsing through some forums on container gardening. If you water hanging baskets on your porch, you may have observed water dripping through the drainage holes onto your porch. Many folks may not realize that wood rot can be caused by this dripping water. While there are solutions on the market for this sort of dilemma, or you could MacGyver something as well, the easiest thing might be to take down your plants and water them off the porch, but that is really not super convenient. Regardless of your approach, you're either spending additional money for a solution or being inconvenienced several times a week taking hanging baskets down and up again. Vulnerable to storms and strong winds. Damage to a plant's leaves, branches and stems can happen if they are whipped against the chains of your hanging basket during a period of storms or strong winds. Furthermore, if a wind is strong enough, it could actually swing your hanging basket hard enough to make it fall to the ground. The obvious solution is to take your hanging basket inside during storms, but storms oftentimes catch us unaware and we don't think of it until it is too late.

How the Pros vs. Cons of Hanging Baskets Compare

Hanging baskets add visual appeal to any space whether it be your porch, exterior walls, or fence posts. What may not be appealing, however, is the high level of maintenance they require to keep them in top form. If you are prepared for the possible drawbacks that come along with growing your plants in hanging containers though, then this is a great option for plant lovers, especially those with little to no space for a typical garden.

Honeysuckles get a bad rap, and for the most part, they deserve it. With a little knowledge and care, they can be a great benefit to the garden. Keep reading to learn more about responsible honeysuckle growing as well as honeysuckle planting drawbacks.

Honeysuckle Planting Pros

(Liz's viewpoint) While they have beautiful and fragrant flowers, several popular species are highly invasive outside their native Asia, and they're notorious for choking out local plants. There are several shrub varieties too, and while they don't spread as vigorously as vines and might seem like a good idea, grow very densely and manage to choke out native plants. These should also be avoided. But not all honeysuckles are like this, and there are, in fact, several good honeysuckle plants.

There are native and non-aggressive honeysuckle plants. Not all honeysuckles are invasive, and not all are non-native. Trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a North American native with red flowers that are extremely attractive to hummingbirds. If you're looking for a reliable native plant that won't cause trouble, this is the one, and it comes in a wide variety of cultivars. Some other good, responsible choices are Brown's honeysuckle (Lonicera x brownii), winter honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima), and Woodbine (Lonerica x americana).

They're tough. One of the reasons the Asian varieties are such a nuisance is that they're very hardy and adaptable, especially in the American South where temperatures don't fall too low. Luckily, this toughness translates to the good varieties as well. If you're looking for a no-nonsense, reliable plant, honeysuckle is a good bet.

They attract pollinators. This is one area where the North American native trumpet honeysuckle really shines. Because of their red color and tubular shape, the vine's flowers are ideal for hummingbirds, and they really do attract them. Put a vine near a picture window or patio to reap the benefits. If you plant it, they will come!

They smell heavenly. Even more than their invasive qualities, honeysuckles are best known for their sweet smell and flavor. What kid hasn't plucked a flower or two to taste the drop of nectar inside? Unfortunately, trumpet honeysuckle doesn't have much of a scent, but some other non-invasive varieties do have that amazing fragrance. These include European honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum) and winter honeysuckle. Of course, nothing quite matches the heady scent of Japanese honeysuckle, especially for the many of us who have it deeply tied up in our heads with memories of spring.

While you should never plant a Japanese honeysuckle, there's nothing to stop you from sniffing the ones that are already growing. Even bad plants have a good quality or two.

Cons of Honeysuckle Planting

(Mary's viewpoint) There's no question that honeysuckle blooms are beautiful and the aroma is heavenly, but it's important to know exactly what you're planting. Invasive species of honeysuckle, including Japanese honeysuckle, have become an absolute nightmare for many well-intended gardeners who regret ever planting these aggressive honeysuckle plants.

In fact, Japanese honeysuckle and other non-native species have been classified as noxious weeds in several states. If you aren't aware of the many honeysuckle planting drawbacks, consider the following information:

It can overwhelm nearby plants. Invasive honeysuckle vines, which are non-native, can out-compete native plants for nutrients, air, sunlight and moisture. The vines can ramble over the ground and climb up ornamentals, small trees and shrubs, smothering them, cutting off their water supply or stopping free flow of sap in the process. One vine can reach lengths of 80 feet (24 m.)

It spreads and grows just about anywhere. Japanese honeysuckle, which was introduced to the United States in 1906, has been a particularly problematic invader since 1919. Many invasive honeysuckle plants, including Japanese honeysuckle, were planted along the nation's highways to stabilize banks and control erosion. The plan worked, but unfortunately, invasive honeysuckle is an opportunist that has spread into woods, glades, prairies, savannahs and floodplains, climbing over everything within its reach. Like most non-native species, it has few natural enemies to keep it in check.

It's difficult to control. Invasive honeysuckle is extremely fast-growing and very difficult to get rid of. The vines grow by both roots and rhizomes, and if that weren't enough, they also root at nodes along the vines. Animals and birds disseminate the seeds far and wide.

Only Go with Good Honeysuckle Plants

Honeysuckles have a delicious scent that attracts humans and pollinators alike, and they can be a huge boon to your garden provided you grow the right varieties.

If you're thinking about planting honeysuckle, plant a non-invasive, native honeysuckle vine and steer clear of Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and other invasive species. Don't assume your local garden center or nursery will know the difference. Check with your local extension office before planting to make sure the species you're considering is non-invasive.

Tip: Penn State University Extension advises that native species (the good guys) are stout, erect, solid-stemmed plants that grow in dry or rocky ground. They produce yellow flowers.

Non-native honeysuckles, which generally have hollow stems, prefer moister soil. Invasive honeysuckle plants leaf out a couple of weeks ahead of native honeysuckles and hold their foliage later into autumn.

It is time to take stock of the damage we do to the earth. Everything we put into it will come back to haunt us in the future. Flame weeding is an organic labor-saving way to eradicate weeds without the use of harmful pesticides. That is why flame weeding is so earth friendly. The small amount of CO2 is offset by the lack of chemicals which can harm beneficial insects, foul water sources and damage invertebrates, as well as the ease and speed of the task. While these pros of flame weeding may certainly spark your interest, you should become aware of the disadvantages of flame weeding too, before you follow your burning desire to invest in this weeding strategy. Read on to see if the pros stack up in favor of weed flaming and if it's right for you.

Flame Weeding Pros - Benefits of Flame Weeding Gardens

(Bonnie's viewpoint)

Most annual, and some perennial, weeds are effectively eradicated by flame weeders. Broadleaf weeds are the best targets. The process is simple. A canister of propane is the fuel source and most models have adjustable flame levels. The flame essentially explodes the weeds' cells, disrupting water and nutrient flow, killing the leaves and preventing photosynthesis, and turning the visible portion of the weed into ash. The ash mixes with soil and is not harmful to other plants. There is no chance of "drift" common with chemical sprays, no toxic residue, no digging or heavy labor, and all evidence of the weed is removed - a win-win.

Flame weeding is environmentally friendly.

Environmental benefits of flame weeding are the main reasons to weed with fire. With spraying and chemical use, the user exposes him or herself to dangerous compounds during mixing and use. Flaming is not invasive to soil, as there is no disruption which can remove the protective top layer, exposing an area to the potential of erosion or other soil loss. It leaves behind no dangerous substance which can get into water supplies or harm wanted plants. You don't have to worry about chemicals rinsing off if a rain occurs after flame weeding.

They're not too costly.

Another benefit? It's not overly expensive to use. The cost is minimal with most wands going for $200 USD (150.00 GBP) and the propane tanks are affordable.

Flame weeders are easy to use.

Flame weeding is used in large scale, commercial growing operations, but the home gardener can enjoy using the tools as well. For older gardeners, the units are lightweight and don't require bending, pulling or lifting. The wand is long enough to use without having to stoop in most cases. Some kits even have an extender. For most plants, applying the flame for 10 seconds should do the trick, but deeply rooted species will need heat for longer to destroy the cells. Some weeds are so tenacious that they will grow back in a couple of weeks. Check back on areas you have flamed and redo any weeds that are resprouting.

Note:

Caution should be taken when using flame weeders, as they can cause unintentional burning if not used correctly. Avoid flaming around wooden siding, bark mulch and other obviously flammable sites. Carry water with you as you work to avoid any unpleasant accidents.

Cons of Flame Weeding in the Garden

(Shelley's viewpoint)

In my opinion, flame weeding should become "shame weeding" instead, and here's why:

You've become an unwitting arsonist.

Is flame weeding bad? Well, it goes without saying that anything with an open flame has the potential to be dangerous. The risk of fire is always there. The dead or brown material (twigs and leaves, for example) surrounding your target weed could become flammable. Flame weeding too close to structures poses a risk. Flame weeding during exceptionally dry weather conditions is not advisable. This is why flame weeding should only be used by the most conscientious of gardeners who practice flame weeding properly.

It's dangerous.

Accidental fires aside, a medical emergency could also transpire if your feet get in the crossfire or if curious children or beloved pets venture too close. There are also lesser known repercussions of flame weeding. You could cause undue harm to yourself or others by breathing in the vapor/smoke from the flamed leaves of poison ivy, which will cause a rash to your skin, eyes, and lungs! This means that you must be aware of what you are flame weeding.

Your green thumb has turned brown or should I say black as ash.

A poorly executed flame weeding session could tarnish your gardening reputation if you do not keep a safe flame weeding distance between your deplorable plants (a.k.a. weeds) and your cherished ones. You must especially be careful in newly sown areas of your gardens. If you are not vigilant of when your seedlings emerge, then your gardening efforts will be rendered for naught by a poorly-timed flame weeding session in or around that area.

It's not 100% effective.

One sweep of the flame weeder may be enough for young annual weeds, but several passes throughout the season may be necessary to eradicate established older weeds, due to re-sprouts from underground taproots.

The fallacy of "environmentally friendly."

You may have heard how environmentally friendly flame weeding is compared to the use of chemicals to combat weeds. Granted, this may be true, but we are overlooking the fact that some model flame weeders use disposable propane cylinders which clog up landfills and pose issues for the environment. In North America alone, 40 million disposable propane cylinders are discarded every year.

It may not be comfortable.

When vetting different flame weeders, keep in mind that the propane tanks on some backpack flame weeders can weigh up to 34 pounds when the tanks are full. This weight may be too heavy a proposition for some, especially those with bad backs.

How the Benefits Compare to Disadvantages of Flame Weeding

Of all the reasons to weed with fire, the fact that it's fun is perhaps one of the top considerations. Blasting away those annoying weeds brings a sense of self satisfaction and glee to many gardeners fighting battles with these unwanted plant denizens. No chemicals, easy to use, low maintenance, affordable, soil preserving, safe for use (when done responsibly), and many more reasons make flame weeding a practice perfect for any home. Unfortunately, the many merits of flame weeding can be offset by the risks. The use of a flame weeder bears with it a lot of responsibility in order to make sure that life, property and desirable garden plants remain intact. The choice is yours.

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are as hard to resist as puppies, with their bright petals and happy "faces" that turn toward the sun. And they can serve many useful purposes in your garden. Still, they have a few downsides that a gardener needs to take into account as he or she is making the big decision. Read on to learn the benefits of growing sunflowers as well as a couple of reasons to think twice, as issues with sunflowers sometimes happen too.

Sunflower Planting Pros

(Teo's viewpoint) There are so many reasons to grow sunflowers that it is hard to know where to begin. Sunflowers make great garden focal points with their tall, strong stems and large, cheerful blossoms. Here are my sunflower planting pros: Their impressive height has advantages. These plants can shoot up just like Jack's beanstalk to attain a full height in short order, usually rising to 5 to 12 feet (1.5 to 4 meters). This height can serve a gardener well, and not just for vertical interest. Some plants, and even veggies, prefer dappled shade. Even in a full sun garden, you can provide partial shade by planting under the sunflowers. And a tight row of sunflowers makes an attractive temporary hedge to hide the compost or liven up a bland wall. They attract helpful pollinators. Gardeners like sunflowers for their vivid colors, but we aren't alone in this admiration. Nature's top pollinators are bees, and sunflowers' showy outer petals draw many different species, including honeybees and bumble bees, to the high-quality nectar. The bees are quite likely to pollinate other plants during their stay. The pretty flowers also bring birds to your yard to eat the sunflower seeds. Not only do wild birds add song and movement to a garden, but they also polish off a few insects while they are there, insects that might otherwise hurt your crops. Sunflower seeds limit weeds. Did you know that sunflowers can also keep down weeds in the backyard? Their seeds contain a chemical that other plants don't like. The effect of this "allelopathic" chemical is believed to inhibit the growth of nearby plants, like weeds. Sunflower roots help with contaminated soil. That's not all the benefits of growing sunflowers...the roots of these amazing flowers can also help detox heavy metals from the soil, like lead, arsenic, zinc, chromium, cadmium, copper and manganese. They're beautiful and have edible seeds. Don't forget the obvious. Sunflowers in a pretty vase are the floral equivalent of sunlight in a room. With abundant sunflower plants in the garden, you can cut some stalks to grace the dining room all summer long. And you'll also have a supply of edible, nutritious sunflower seeds if you beat the birds to them first.

Cons of Planting Sunflowers

(Liz's viewpoint) Sunflowers are big, beautiful, and easy to grow. I personally have never planted one deliberately - they just appear in the garden and take off. But while there's big payoff in those giant flower heads, there are also a host of problems. You'll find a few of the negatives of growing sunflowers here. Sunflowers can kill. Of all the issues with sunflowers, perhaps the most interesting and dire is their tendency to repress the growth of other plants. This is because sunflowers are allelopathic - they exude toxins that stop nearby plants from growing. Have you ever noticed that the grass doesn't grow underneath bird feeders? That's why. It's good from the sunflower's point of view, since it leaves a wide open space every spring for new seedlings to grow. But it's bad for gardeners who want to grow lots of different plants in close quarters. Most plants are affected at least somewhat, but pole beans and potatoes are especially susceptible and should not be planted anywhere near sunflowers. Sunflowers attract squirrels. Ever notice how quickly the neighborhood squirrels can track down and obliterate a new birdfeeder? They're big fans of sunflower seeds on the plant too. And once they polish off those seeds, they'll start eyeing your vegetables. Sunflowers are also known to attract aphids and whiteflies. They can blow over. Another of the negatives of growing sunflowers is their shape. Sunflowers tend to be tall, with big leaves and flower heads, perfect for catching the wind. A big storm can take one right out, and there's a good chance it'll take out the plants around it too. They're a pain at the end of the season. One of the most exciting things about sunflowers is their sheer size - some varieties are a real sight to behold. But at the end of the season, they're still there (if they didn't blow over). Unlike some other plants that all but dissolve with the first frost, sunflowers stand where stood, tall and woody and unwieldy. And because of their allelopathic properties, they can't be left in the garden or they'll get into the soil and cause problems in the spring. They have to be torn down, chopped up, and composted - hard work for cold hands in the fall.

Are the Issues with Sunflowers Worth it?

There are several cons of planting sunflowers, there's no denying it. But they're beautiful and striking enough that most gardeners choose to plant them anyway. In the end, it's really up to you.

Annual plants are beautiful and can be wonderful in a garden but, unlike perennials, they demand constant attention from spring until the first frost in fall. It's important to understand the growth habits of both, including annual flower pros and cons, before you go shopping for seeds or plants. While there are benefits of growing annuals, there are downsides too. Read on for all the information you need to figure out whether annuals are right for your garden.

Annual Flower Pros - Reasons to Plant Annuals

(Teo's viewpoint) If you aren't sure about the differences between annuals and perennials, here's an easy way to remember it. An annual event takes place once a year, like Christmas or your birthday. Annual plants "take place" once a year as well. That is, annuals germinate, grow, bloom, seed and die in one growing season. Perennials live at least two years or more. While that may seem to give perennials a big advantage, there are lots of benefits to growing annuals too. Below are just some reasons to plant annuals. Annual flowers grow quicker and bloom longer. Annuals have a lot of work to do in one season, so they are efficient plants, germinating and growing quickly. And they often stay in flower all season long. Perennials have more time but start slower, often blooming for just a few weeks, then putting energy into preparing for the next season. Annuals come in a multitude of colors. Another of the benefits to growing annuals also stems from their short lives. Annual blooms are usually bright and vivid. They need to attract pollinators and they don't have time to waste. You can count on filling up empty beds quickly and dramatically with annuals, mixing colors and heights to create the palate you want. Annual plants are not expensive. Annuals cost less than perennials, whether you buy them as seeds or seedlings. That makes sense when you consider that perennial roots live for two or more seasons. But it also means that for a lot less money, you can fill your garden with bright annual blooms. And change your color design year after year. Many types of annual also self-seed. You may have to sow seeds every year for annuals, but you may not. Many species of annuals reseed themselves, saving you the trouble. Annuals are so easy to grow. You plant, water and sit back and enjoy the show. With perennials, you have to worry about giving the plants the maintenance they require to continue to grow year after year.

Cons of Annual Flowers - Reasons Against Planting Annuals

(Mary's viewpoint) Although they continue to be wildly popular, there are many disadvantages of annuals in the garden. Annuals may not be the best choice for gardeners who are unable to dedicate the tremendous amount of time required to keep these colorful but short-lived plants looking their best. Consider the following reasons against planting annuals: Cost can add up year after year. Annuals, which tend to be relatively inexpensive, last only for a single year. So, in the long run, they are substantially more expensive than perennials, which live at least three or four years and usually much longer. Most annual plants cannot take cold. Annuals are sensitive plants that can't handle much cold. As a result, they can't be planted until you're certain the last frost of the season has passed. This means a short blooming season for chilly northern climates with short growing seasons. They tend to require more frequent watering. Watering is tricky and some annuals, especially those in hanging pots, must be watered daily (sometimes twice during hot, dry weather). However, while most prefer rather moist conditions, they tend to rot easily if they are overwatered. Insects attack them more. Annuals are more pone prone to slugs, aphids, and a variety of other harmful pests. They require more maintenance for continual blooms. If you want to keep annuals blooming, most varieties must be deadheaded frequently - often daily. Otherwise, the plants will go to seed and blooming will rapidly decline. This is a time-consuming task if you plant a lot of annuals. Also, regular fertilization is required to keep annuals in full bloom. Additionally, some annuals get spindly and unsightly in midsummer. Pruning and trimming are necessary to keep them looking good for a few more weeks.

How to Overcome the Disadvantages of Planting Annuals

If you're a busy person without a lot of time to spend in the garden, perennials make more sense since they tend to care for themselves. That's not to say that you cannot still enjoy having annuals in the garden. If you like the pop of color that annuals provide, plant a few in strategic locations. Also, look for annuals that are self-cleaning, such as calibrachoa or wave petunias, as well as those that are more tolerant of drought so you won't have to water as often.

Fresh cut grass and well-manicured lawns are often thought to be synonymous with summer. However, homeowners in many regions may find lawn maintenance to be a difficult undertaking. Between fertilization routines and the frequency at which the lawns need to be mowed, the process is not only time consuming but can become quite expensive. In recent years, the rising popularity of lawn alternatives has resulted in people weighing their options in terms of replacing their lawns.

Types of alternative lawns may vary greatly, from mixed native plantings to the use of concrete and gravel. By exploring the pros and cons of developing an alternative lawn, homeowners are better able to make informed decisions regarding the best course of action to take. Here we will provide info on why you should replace your lawn as well as reasons to keep your lawn as is.

Pros - Alternative Lawn Benefits

(Tonya's viewpoint) Reasoning why you should replace your lawn may vary from person to person, specifically depending upon your growing region. Here are my alternative lawn pros:

Drought prone regions can avoid frequent irrigation. While some areas of the country receive more than enough rainfall to sustain a lush lawn, certain regions may experience periods of intense heat and drought. Those living in drought prone regions often begin to explore the concept of alternative lawns as a desire to find an option better suited to their climate. In these cases, alternative lawn pros obviously include the ability to provide increased curb appeal and the ability to thrive without frequent irrigation. Native and xeriscaped garden areas offer a sustainable and efficient option for those wishing to restrict water use.

Native plantings can entice pollinators. In addition to creating waterwise plantings, many lawn alternatives serve as a haven for pollinators. Homeowners who choose to incorporate native flowers and plants within the landscape can help to create biodiversity, as well as create lush green spaces with much needed flowering plants.

Less maintenance is required. Since these plants are native to the growing region, little care is often needed, as native plants prove to be much more tolerant and adaptable to growing conditions. These natural lawn alternatives are not only low maintenance, but also allow for cooler temperatures within the garden due to their natural composition. Hardscape areas offer even less in the way of maintenance.

Provides homeowners with cost effective landscapes. Alternative lawn benefits extend well beyond drought prone regions. For many, the cost and effort required to maintain a beautiful lawn may be an expense in which homeowners simply cannot afford. The allure of these no-mow, cost effective landscapes is undeniable. By planting hardy and reliable plant alternatives, or replacing lawn areas with hardscape features, homeowners are able to create a visually interesting space which is both useful and beneficial.

Cons of Alternative Lawns

(Mary Ellen's viewpoint) Alternative lawns have always been around, but they have never really taken off for several reasons. Who doesn't love a lush, green, grass-filled yard after all? There are many reasons to keep your lawn as it is. Here are just a few of the top ones:

The workload. Just think of all the work you would have to put in to stop grass from growing. Or imagine the cost if you have to pay someone else to rip it out. Taking out grass is a big effort of time and physical endurance if you do it yourself. And, if you replace the lawn with attractive beds and paths, the maintenance requirements will be through the roof.

The expense. Even if you do much of the labor yourself, an alternative lawn will cost money. Native plants, artificial turf, gravel, pavement, and other materials can cost between $3 and $15 per square foot.

Negative environmental effects. Many lawn alternatives, like gravel, artificial grass, and concrete can have a negative impact on the local environment. Many are not water permeable, which means rainwater won't soak back into the ground; instead, it will run into storm drains. This can promote erosion too, whereas grass holds soil in place. Also, these alternative materials tend to produce a heat island effect, raising local temperatures. Hard surfaces and materials, like rock and concrete, will increase noise in your yard.

Ire from neighbors. Your neighbors may not thank you for tearing out your grass, especially during the transition phase when your lawn may look like a construction site. Even when it's done, and it looks nice to you, neighbors may become enemies if they don't appreciate the new alternative.

Homeowner restrictions. In some places, you may not even be allowed to mess with your grass to any large extent. Neighborhood and homeowner associations tend to restrict big changes that make one yard look much different from the others. Break the rules and you could face penalties and fines, not to mention being forced to put grass back in.

Should Disadvantages of Alternative Lawns Sway You?

Regardless of the rationale, choosing to install a lawn alternative is quite an important decision. Some people manage to replace grass with a pretty, environmentally sound alternatives. But those types of alternative lawns take money, a lot of work and time, and long-term maintenance. You can do whatever you like with your own yard, as long as there are no homeowner association requirements, of course. But why would you stray from the tried-and-true grass lawn?

However, with careful planning and consideration, homeowners can make informed choices regarding which course of action may be best for their own growing circumstances. And, if you want to try an alternative, maybe try it in just one small area first and "grow" from there rather than all at once.

For many novice growers, one of the most difficult aspects of gardening relates directly to the process of starting seeds indoors in late winter and early spring. Vegetable garden favorites, such as tomatoes and peppers, will require (in most cases) that growers sow seed and grow transplants indoors until the last chance of frost has passed. Without the implementation of grow light systems, this process is often quite challenging. It is for this reason that many begin to contemplate the purchase of grow lights. However, it is first important to weigh both the positive and negative aspects of this decision.

With the assistance from fellow writer, Tonya Barnett, we share our thoughts on both the best reasons and negative aspects of using grow lights.

Pros - Best Reasons for Use Grow Lights

(Tonya's viewpoint) Whether growing rare and exotic plants indoors, overwintering tender flowers, or simply wishing to get an early start in the spring vegetable garden, grow lights are highly regarded for their ability to produce lush plant growth.

They provide essential light. Quite the obvious, grow lights provide the lighting most plants need. In fact, one of the main reasons to use grow lights has much to do with the quality of light which is produced. These lighting systems are different than common light bulbs in that the full spectrum of light colors are produced, not just those which are visible to the eye. This is especially important, as high volumes of certain types of light are responsible for vigorous plant growth and increased flowering.

You can grow plants nearly anywhere. Grow light systems also serve as a viable means by which homeowners are able to utilize even the darkest of spaces, such as basements and interior rooms.

These lights can be cost effective. In addition to the ability of grow light systems to produce healthier and more vigorous plants than those simply grown near a window, other grow light pros, such as efficiency, allow for even energy conscious growers to utilize lighting systems to their full potential. While gardeners on a budget can achieve desired results through the use of fluorescent grow lights, recent advances in LED lighting systems offer even more grow light positives to home gardeners in heat protection and energy efficiency.

Grow lights offer a more controlled environment. Regardless of price, when grow light systems are in use, growers are able to control the amount of and intensity of light provided to plants, thus better fulfilling the requirements of each type of plant being grown.

They can actually be visually appealing. Innovations in technology not only allow for better heat regulation of lights, but also greater versatility when used as a visually interesting aspect of home interior design. In fact, many grow lights double as attractive lamp features in the home.

Cons - Negatives of Grow Light Usage

(Amy's viewpoint) I think it's safe to assume that we all know that plants need light to grow, but how they get that light might be up for debate. In an ideal world, plants are grown outside in perfect conditions in which Mother Nature provides ideal amounts of water, nutrients and light. Most gardeners roll with what Mother Nature tosses and adjust the amount of water or nutrients that may be lacking, but light is another matter. Sometimes, artificial light must be used to stimulate growth in plants, especially when growing inside a house or a greenhouse, but there are several problems with using grow lights.

It can be costly. The saying goes that nothing is free, but in the case of Mr. Sun vs. grow lights, one of the biggest negatives of grow light usage is cost. There are many grow light options available and some of them are extremely pricey and, of course, they're usually the best. Even if you opt for your lowest cost option, grow lights will cost you on the energy bill.

You may need to use more than one type. If you want your plants to grow though, cost isn't the only consideration. Plants primarily use red and blue light for photosynthesis. One of the lowest cost options are compact florescent lights. One of the cons of this type of grow light is that multiple lights need to be used since they have a lower output compared to other bulb types. They are not ideal for large growers and because of their low-light output need to be close to the plants.

CDL bulbs have their own set of problems. High intensity grow lights are a step up from CDLs, but they produce a lot of heat that requires ventilation and exhausts and they need a special hood and ballast. Other cons of grow lights is that they have a short life span, can't be plugged into a standard socket, and will definitely increase the electric bill. LED lights are the best option, as they are the most energy efficient grow light. That said, they cost more at start up and are not always as advertised.

Grow lights aren't always worth the trouble. Along with the punch grow lights can pack to your budget, the grower must consider other negatives of grow light usage. Grow lights often provide uneven distribution or too little or too much light and may be give off too much heat. Space must be considered as well since some types of lights will require ventilation.

How Do the Problems with Using Grow Lights Compare to Their Usefulness?

The use of grow lights is on the upswing since fewer people have access to an outdoor garden or because they wish to garden year round. Grow lights have their place, but be sure to do your research and be aware of all the problems associated with using grow lights. Regardless of the reason that one may choose to implement grow lights, doing so undoubtedly comes with both positive and negative attributes which must be weighed. As with any garden technique, personal preferences and conditions within one's own garden will dictate the usefulness and need for grow light systems.

Herbs are great, and many of these plants can be easily grown in the home, or so they say. Get the facts here on both the benefits and disadvantages to growing herbs indoors.

Pros - Reasons to Have an Indoor Herb Garden

(Shelley's viewpoint) In my opinion, there's nothing better than having your own "homegrown" herbs in the kitchen. These reliable plants are always there when you need them, but that's not all. Here are some other reasons to have an indoor herb garden.

Herbs year round. An indoor herb garden gives the gardeners afflicted with winter malaise an opportunity to lovingly tend to more plants and enjoy herbs year round after the outdoor growing season has ended.

Low maintenance. Many herbs are relatively low maintenance to grow, all it takes is being mindful of the minimal watering and lighting requirements for each. Some really easy-to-grow options include lemongrass, chives, mint, and parsley.

Save money. One of the best benefits of growing herbs indoors is the cost savings. You can grow your own herbs for the fraction of the cost you spend on them at the supermarket or farmer's market. The cost of fresh basil, for example, can be $2-3 (possibly more depending where you are located) for a few ounces. The cost of a packet of basil seeds is only a dollar or two and, if you nurture your plants, will yield you a bounty of fresh herbs on a weekly basis for a very long time.

They're truly fresh. When you snip off herbs in your indoor herb garden, you know they are the freshest they can possibly be. How long do you think the herbs at your grocery store have been sitting there? The answer is 'a while.'

They're a healthy option. It is possible to boost the flavor of your everyday meals without adding fat, sodium or sugar. Fresh herbs are a great low-calorie and delicious way to add zest and flair to your cuisine, making this one of the most compelling indoor herb gardening pros. When you cook with fresh herbs, your dishes will never be bland or boring.

They're pleasing to the senses.: Herbs are edible but are also ornamental and will definitely add an element of interest to your existing décor with their various foliage colors and shapes. And, in some cases, there are aromatic herbs whose foliage gives off a nice fragrance.

Cons - Disadvantages to Growing Herbs Indoors

(Nikki's viewpoint) I certainly have nothing against herb plants. In fact, I grow many of them in my garden. But growing herbs indoors is something altogether different. Outside of the garden proper, indoor herb gardening problems abound - at least for me anyway and probably many others feel the same. These are my top cons of indoor herb gardens.

Herbs require lots of light. Most all herb plants require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight to thrive. While outside this isn't normally an issue, indoors is quite another story. The average home may not have sufficient light, making the likelihood of your plants' survival hanging in the balance. The best lighting can be found in a south-facing window, but not all homes have this option, which leaves the only other option as supplemental grow lights. Leggy plants is a good sign that those herbs need more sunlight.

Additional lighting can be costly. For those having little light and in need of more, this is simply another added cost to growing herbs in the home. While it may not be a steep expense depending on the type of lighting you get and for how many plants, it's still something to be considered and factored in before considering that indoor herb garden.

Warm temps are important. It's no secret that most herbs like heat. In fact, many are native to warm regions. That said, indoor heat during winter can be quite dry and not exactly the best for thriving herb plants. While you can spend time misting your plants to keep them from drying out or even set them on a water-filled tray of pebbles to improve humidity, this can lead to additional problems if you're not careful.

Watering can be tricky. As you mist your plants to keep their foliage moist and lush, water becomes yet another issue with indoor herb gardening. First, if you have high sodium content or your water is treated with chemicals, this could ultimately be harmful to plants. And as most herbs prefer drier conditions; unfortunately, we tend to kill our plants with kindness, especially in winter. Too much of a good thing really is, as too much water can be detrimental, leading to root rot and the eventual demise of your much beloved plants.

Better double check for bugs. While you're busy watering, you'll have to be on the lookout for pests that may be hiding in the plants, like aphids or spider mites, especially when potted plants are brought indoors from outside. Others may be attracted to the soil, as is the case with fungus gnats.

Given Adequate Care, Indoor Herb Gardening Pros Win in the End

Growing herbs indoors can be immensely satisfying. Being able to grow more plants indoors is great for those gardeners whose green thumbs are twitching during the long, arduous winter months. Cooking with fresh herbs will also make you feel like your most favored famous chef by bringing the wow factor to your meals in a healthy way. And let's not forget the tremendous cost savings of growing your own herbs versus buying from the store.

So, yes, these are all great reasons to have an indoor herb garden. That being said, it's important to make sure you factor in all the possible indoor herb gardening problems BEFOREHAND, which will save you the disappointment of losing your herbs instead of enjoying them. As long as you can provide these plants with what they need, growing herbs indoors is always a good thing.

Composting is one of the most beneficial things you can do in the garden, and the reasons to compost are many. That being said, don't feel guilty if you don't want to compost, or if it just sounds like too much trouble. It's true that composting provides numerous benefits but, on the other hand, there are several valid reasons not to compost. If you're thinking it just isn't your thing, take a moment to consider the benefits along with the downsides of composting.

Pros of Composting

Amy's viewpoint: I compost, but I've heard every excuse in the book on why NOT to compost. Usually, it comes down to a time factor - not enough time to compost. Phooey! Another good one is that "it smells." Not if you're composting correctly. I think I could literally refute every excuse on composting disadvantages. But, instead, I am going to devote this time to talking about the benefits of composting. Good for the environment. The biggest reason to compost is that it's environmentally friendly. Did you know that yard waste and food scraps comprise about 27% of solid waste in the United States? That figure is quite staggering, especially when you consider that almost everyone can compost! Why should you be concerned about the amount of solid waste in landfills? Not only does hauling waste to landfills fill up space for years, but landfills produce methane, a greenhouse gas that is twenty times more effective than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere. Methane can remain in the atmosphere for up to 15 years and, as such, has serious implications with relation to global warming and climate change. So this major composting advantage is actually three-fold: reducing solid waste, minimizing methane gas and, therefore, reducing our impact on climate change. Improves soil structure and water retention. As if these weren't enough "pros" of composting, this "black gold" also improves the quality of almost any soil. It improves the structure and texture, allowing the soil to retain more nutrients, water and air, which equals healthier, more productive plants. Water retention encourages plants to grow larger root systems which in turn protects from erosion and water runoff that takes pollutants into our waterways. Natural, organic fertilizer. Amending the garden with compost has yet another benefit. Because it is made up of organic materials, compost breaks down over time. As compost breaks down, it continually feeds the surrounding plants. This reduces the need for synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. Less cost involved. Reducing the need to purchase synthetic additives cuts costs dramatically and, after all, composting is free to anyone that has a patch of ground. This means that growing your own organic fruit and vegetables leads to a considerable savings over purchasing them from the supermarket. Anyone can compost. And lastly, let me go back to something I mentioned at the start of this article, "Everyone can compost!" Even folks who reside in the most urban of settings can participate in composting and, indeed, some of them are more intense composters than rural homeowners. Even if you don't have yard space for your own compost pile, many municipalities now have yard waste/food scrap programs. And you can compost indoors too.

Cons of Composting

Mary's viewpoint: There are some very good reasons for composting, but it's a big job and it isn't for everybody. Take time to consider both the pros and cons of composting before you jump in. Here are common reasons not to compost: It's stinky. If you aren't careful, a compost pile can develop a nasty odor - nasty enough to attract bugs, as well as rats and other four-legged pests. You can minimize this composting disadvantage by turning the pile regularly and by burying food scraps in the center of the pile, (or by not composting at all). An improperly processed compost pile, especially one that includes chicken manure or other animal waste, can also harbor dangerous pathogens. It's ugly. Creating a gorgeous landscape is a lot of hard work and you may not like the idea of an unsightly compost pile detracting from all that beauty. Sometimes, the neighbors aren't crazy about the composting idea, either. You could always purchase a neat and tidy compost bin and tuck it away in a corner, but even a small compost pile or bin takes up a certain amount of space. It sucks up a lot of time and energy. Composting means hauling grass clippings, leaves and other compostable materials to the pile. When the compost is finished, you spread it in your garden or flower bed, and then you start all over again. You can't just forget about compost; it must be turned every day or at least several times a week. Depending on the type of composter, you may need to turn it manually with a garden fork or shovel. That's a lot of hard work and one of the major cons of composting. It's not a perfect fertilizer. There's no argument that compost is good for the soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. However, most gardeners learn that compost is, at best, a supplement to regular fertilizer, and that the balance of nutrients depends on the ingredients. For example, compost based on chicken manure tends to be very high in phosphorus. Also, compost that isn't properly managed can lose a significant amount of nutrients as they are leached out by rain or dissipate into the atmosphere. It may take longer than you expect. Every time you add more material to the compost, it takes that much longer to break down and ultimately delays the finished project. Some gardeners prefer to use two bins so one can be "cooking" when the other is finished. Weather can also be a delaying factor; not much happens with compost during the winter unless you have an insulated bin, so the compost basically just sits there until spring.

Composting Advantages vs. its Disadvantages

Sure, there may be some downsides to composting, but in the greater scheme of things, the small inconvenience of remembering to scrape your plate into a compost bin instead of the garbage is more than worth it. Composting just may be worth the future of the planet.

These days, using chemicals in the garden is a highly controversial subject. Many people are afraid of the adverse health effects that chemicals can have. Others argue that the benefits outweigh the risks. When we talk about using chemicals in the garden, we are usually referring to three main pesticides: insecticides to control insect pests, fungicides to control or treat fungal diseases, and herbicides to control weeds. When it comes to combating garden pests or weeds, our first impulse is to spray them with a pesticide or herbicide, respectively. However, there are many disadvantages of using chemicals in the garden which should make us re-think whether spraying our problems is truly justified.

Pesticide and Herbicide Pros

Darcy's viewpoint: In the United States, these products are carefully regulated and monitored by both federal and state agencies. While many of these products are sold to the general public, others can only be sold to farmers and professional pesticide applicators that have undergone training and testing to become certified and licensed to safely use these products. Misuse of pesticides is a crime that can be prosecuted on a federal level. Other countries throughout the world have similar regulations. In other words, pesticide safety is not taken lightly. It is easy to knock the use of chemicals, until you really examine the pesticide and herbicide pros, now and in the past. They prevent spread of disease. It is estimated that since 1945, the use of pesticides has prevented about seven million deaths from insect spread diseases. Pesticides control insect vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, lice and fleas. By doing so, they control spread of serious diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, malaria, bubonic plague, yellow fever, typhoid fever and many others. Pesticides are used in businesses like hospitals, restaurants, grocery stores, and hotels to control rats, mice, lice, bedbugs, roaches, bacteria, mold and many other intolerable pests known to carry specific diseases. They protect native ecosystems and water. Controlling diseases in people and pets are not the only positive reasons to use pesticides and herbicides. Pesticides are used to control termites in our homes. They also protect our native forests and waterways from insect, plant and disease alien invaders, such as gypsy moths, Japanese beetles, Asian long-horned beetles, emerald ash borers, budworms, loopers, garlic mustard, kudzu and Dutch elm disease - to name a few. Pesticides are also used to control harmful bacteria in our drinking water. They increase visibility. Herbicides are used by road crews to control brush and over growth along roadways and intersections to increase visibility and prevent flooding, increasing the safety of our roads. Cuts costs and increases yields in agriculture. Agriculturally, the advantages of gardening chemicals guarantee higher crop yields and allow farmers to produce better quality crops. It is estimated that 37% of crops in the United States are destroyed by pests each year. This results in about a $122 billion economic loss each year. Worldwide, pests destroy about half the potential food supply. Herbicides are also used to reduce poisonous weeds in livestock pastures. Pesticide and herbicide use in agriculture is more cost effective than the manual labor that would be needed to control insects, diseases and weeds in our food crops. Immediate results. Other benefits of chemicals in the garden are their quick and efficient results. They are readily available at any garden center or hardware store and can be applied on large areas to quickly control large pest infestations.

Cons of Gardening Chemicals

Shelley's viewpoint: No matter how good the gardener or how well tended the garden, insect pests and weeds are inevitable. But this doesn't mean you have to resort to chemicals to control them. Here are the most common pesticide and herbicide drawbacks to consider beforehand: They kill the good kind of insects. Beneficial insects can help you get rid of bad bugs. Many of the pesticides used today are broad-spectrum and non-selective, meaning they are just as detrimental to beneficial species as they are to the pests themselves. This is one of the downsides of pesticides and herbicides. If beneficial insects are destroyed, then pest populations are not kept in check and resurge quicker. This leads to increased pesticide use, which is not altogether a good thing as we will learn next"¦ Pesticide resistance. Have you ever heard the expression that "too much of a good thing can be a bad thing?" Well, this definitely applies to pesticides and herbicides and is one of the disadvantages of using chemicals in the garden. Pesticides have been overused so much that, in some cases, the sole surviving pests, the most naturally resistant individuals, breed and generate resistant offspring. Then, with each passing generation, the strength of resistance increases. As you can imagine, this reduces the efficacy of the same pesticides over time. Here are some sobering statistics: When tallying the number of weeds and insects resistant to one pesticide, we are seeing five times the amount that was seen in 1950. In addition, farmers are losing more crops to pests today than in the 1940s. Chemical pollution. Here's one of the major pesticide and herbicide drawbacks: The use of chemicals is harmful to our environment. Residues accumulate in our atmosphere, bodies of water and soil, having far-reaching implications on human health in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food crops tended in our soil. Wildlife is also negatively impacted by chemical pollution for many of these same reasons. Many animals are killed from consuming pesticide laden plants. Pesticide poisoning. Regarded as a global health crisis, it is estimated that 1-5 million people suffer pesticide poisoning around the world every year with up to 20,000 deaths incurred from that poisoning.

Weighing the Drawbacks and Benefits of Chemicals in the Garden

Prevention of disease, protection of native forests, increased food production and agricultural profits, and immediate results are all very good reasons to use pesticides and herbicides. But keep in mind that while the use of pesticides/herbicides may appear to have an immediate positive impact at the outset, the long-term impact of their use proves otherwise. The intention of using pesticides and herbicides is to protect our crops. However - are we really doing that by disrupting the natural checks and balances, creating pesticide resistant pests, and polluting our environment? We really need to consider the downsides of pesticides and herbicides to determine if their continued use if warranted.

Organic gardening has experienced an upsurge in popularity, mainly due to concerns about commercial farming practices and their harmful effects on the environment. Manures are organic mediums for soil preparation and plant nutrition. While their effectiveness is not under dispute, their safety may well be. So even though manure fertilizer advantages are not in debate, the reasons against fertilizing with manure could put into question whether or not this is a practice in which you'd like to partake.

Manure Fertilizer Pros

Darcy's viewpoint: Although there are some risks, there are many more reasons to use manure in garden beds than not. Here are some of the top manure fertilizing pros to consider:

Improves the soil. Some of the greatest benefits of manure in the garden are that manure increases soil carbon, while also reducing atmospheric carbon. Soil carbon stimulates the biological process of soil, making it more alive by increasing microorganisms and allowing soil nutrients to become more readily available to plants growing in the manure amended soil.

Because it is organic, manure added to garden beds also improves soil structure and aeration, reduces erosion and leaching of nitrogen, and increases the soil's water holding capacity and drainage.

High in nutrients. Manure is high in nutrients that plants need to grow properly, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Different types of animal manure have different levels of these nutrients.

For example, sheep and poultry manure are higher in these nutrients than horse or cow manure. However, raw manures can contain levels that are not safe for some plants.

For this reason, manures are usually composted or cured before using in the garden. When composted properly, with a carbon-nitrogen ratio of 25:1 and at least three to five days of steady compost temperatures of at least 131 F. (55 C.), manure is free of harmful contaminants and high salt levels.

The composting process also breaks down the nutrients into forms which are easier for plants to absorb and can be easily applied right to growing vegetable plants.

Easy to come by. Other benefits of using manure in the garden are that it repurposes livestock waste and it is generally much lower cost than commercial fertilizers.

Manure is also usually easy to come by. Many people with livestock have an endless supply and a lot of them are more than willing to share with others.

Cons of Manure Fertilizer

Bonnie's viewpoint: If you really think about it, using animal waste as a fertilizer is mildly disgusting. However, properly cured and composted manure is an excellent source of nitrogen and other nutrients and helps improve soil health.

Some of the drawbacks of manure fertilizer come when it is not composted well and when animals are given medicines and hormones which may remain in the finished product. Here are a few good reasons why you shouldn't fertilize with manure.

Manure should be composted first. There are two main types of animal manure, hot and cold. Hot manures have high amounts of nitrogen and must be well composted. These include rabbit, horse, sheep and cow manures. Cold manure is lower in nitrogen and can be used in moderation in its fresh state.

Both types should be worked into soil well at least two months prior to planting edible crops. In organic production, no manure can be used in the year in which a crop will be harvested, so for organic certification only green manures should be applied to soil.

Contaminants may still remain. The bad news is that even composted manure can still retain hormones, antibiotics, viable weed seeds, pesticides and diseases. In fact, while rare, Salmonella and E. coli have both been found in well composted manures and can be transmitted to food crops, especially those that are eaten raw.

Heavy metals are another concern. In livestock situations where industrial production systems are used, heavy metals and chemicals are often taken in by animals and do not disappear when the manure is composted.

Raw manures are especially dangerous and can release high levels of skatole, indol and other phenols which are absorbed by food crops.

May lead to excess nutrients. Other reasons against fertilizing with manure are that soil health can be affected by consistent use of the product. It imparts necessary plant nutrients but may cause a build-up of certain nutrients and minerals.

These excess components leach out of soil and run off into waterways. Excess nitrogen in water causes algae blooms and other effects. Copper is an additive in many poultry feeds. Chicken manure retains that copper and can build up to soil to a toxic degree, burning plant roots.

Another of the cons of using manure fertilizer is that it can raise the acidity of soil over time while also depleting calcium, an essential mineral for plants. Manure needs to be tilled into be most effective. The very action bares soil and leaves it open to further leaching and topsoil loss.

Reasons to Use Manure vs. Why You Shouldn't Fertilize with Manure

Overall, manure is an effective fertilizer and soil amendment when used properly. The cons of using manure fertilizer are generally outweighed by the positive aspects of the product. However, the drawbacks of manure fertilizer certainly do exist and steps need to be taken to avoid issues.

These might include soil testing to determine the amount and type of manure, using low tillage methods by spreading manure the season prior to planting, and sourcing manure from organic farms where toxic chemicals are not used. With careful composting, manure can be of benefit to plants and soil.

Note: It is strongly recommended that cat, dog, and pig manures never be used on edibles, especially raw, because of parasites and disease contaminates.

If you are trying to decide whether to use rock or chopped bark as mulch in your garden, you'll find plenty of good arguments for both sides. And a few disadvantages. Rock mulch advantages may carry the day, but bark mulch pros are quite impressive too. In this article, we will cover both sides of this landscaping conundrum to thoroughly explain the benefits of each type of mulch. At Gardening Know How, it is our goal to provide our readers with all the information we can, such as rock vs. bark mulch, to make decisions as easy as possible. Keep reading to learn the benefits of rock and bark mulch to help you make the right decision for your yard.

Rock Mulch Pros vs. Bark

Teo's viewpoint: Rock is not always the first thing that comes to a gardener's mind when he or she thinks about mulch. But there are many reasons to landscape with stones. And stone mulch has some advantages over traditional mulch. Variety. One of the biggest of the rock mulch advantages is the wide range you have to choose among. Most traditional bark mulch looks pretty much the same. But the variety of types of rock mulch is dazzling. You can find different types of rock and gravel used for mulch, like lava rock, granite, quartz rock, river rock and pea gravel. These varieties come in a vast range of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors too. That means that you can pick a type of rock mulch that goes well in a certain area. You could use a different type in another for a different effect. One-time cost. Additional benefits of rock mulch include price. Yes, rock mulch can be more expensive than traditional mulch. But one of the reasons to landscape with stones is that it's a one-time purchase. One of the big benefits of rock mulch is that it does not decay or decompose. That means that a gardener doesn't have to keep replacing this landscape mulch. When you buy bark mulch today, you have to plan to buy more. Maybe not tomorrow but soon and regularly. This is partly due to the fact that it decomposes over time and needs replacement, and shredded bark can also blow away in the wind. Low maintenance with little issues. Because rock mulch does not retain moisture, you probably won't have any fungi growth either. One of the rock mulch pros is how little maintenance it requires once in place.

Bark Mulch Advantages Over Rock

Darcy's viewpoint: As a landscape designer, I am oftentimes faced with the decision of choosing rock mulch vs. bark mulch. Some homeowners have a clear picture of how they want their landscape to look and a definite preference between rock and bark mulches. Other homeowners leave this choice up to me. While presenting designs to my clients, I usually explain to them why rock or bark mulch is a better option for their specific site than the other, as both rock and bark mulches have certain site specific pros and cons. It's natural and breaks down. In the woods and other natural spaces, trees and shrubs shed leaves, needles, sticks and bits of bark. This organic matter builds up on the ground, becoming a natural mulch, helping to retain soil moisture, protecting plants and roots, and slowly breaks down over time, adding vital nutrients and organic matter to the forest floor. In the landscape, traditional bark mulch mimics this natural process, whereas rock mulches do not. Retains moisture and minimizes heat. There are many bark mulch pros. Besides looking more natural in landscapes than rock mulch, some benefits of traditional mulch are retaining soil moisture and reducing evaporation on the soil surface and transpiration of plants. Rock mulches retain and reflect heat, especially light colored stones. They heat up the soil and areas around plants. As soil temperatures rise, soil moisture is lost to evaporation, causing plants to become stressed and increasing their watering needs. As the plants heat up and stress, they lose more water through transpiration. Increased soil temperatures can also be harmful or deadly to plant roots and beneficial microorganisms within the soil. A study in Michigan determined that a 3-inch (7.6 cm.) layer of bark mulch reduced midday soil temperatures up to 18 degrees. Suppresses weeds and nourishes soil. Other important reasons for mulching organically are weed control and the added nutrients and microbes of bark mulches. Because of its finer texture, a thick layer of bark mulch can suppress weeds better than rock mulches. Garden debris eventually builds up in beds with fabric and rock mulches, and weed seeds quickly germinate and take hold in the warm little crevices between rocks. Bark mulches break down and decompose over time. While this does mean the added cost of having to replenish bark mulch every few years, it can save money on watering, fertilizing and soil amendments in bark mulched beds. As bark breaks down, it adds nutrients and organic matter to the beds. This not only feeds plants and improves soil texture and quality, but it also creates an excellent habitat for beneficial soil microorganisms and worms. Less expensive overall and easy to work with. Bark mulch advantages also include cheaper upfront costs and less back breaking work. Though bark mulch does have to be topped up every few years, it is usually much less expensive than rock mulches. Rock mulches are also extremely heavy and hard to work with. Available in easy to haul bags or in bulk, bark mulches are lightweight and easy to apply. Once rock is placed in a garden bed, it is very difficult to add, replace or divide plants, whereas it is very easy to dig into bark mulches to complete these tasks.

Reasons for Mulching Organically or Using Rocks

When deciding between rock and bark mulches, it is important to consider the site. An area which receives a lot of sun will heat up much more quickly with rock mulch than it will with bark mulch. This can be extremely stressful for certain plants or prime conditions for plants that prefer arid conditions. Personal preference will also play an important role in your decision. Bark mulches provide a more natural look to beds, but rock mulches can create a formal, clean look in the landscape.

The benefits of gardening indoors are many, especially if that's the only place you have to garden. But those partaking in indoor gardening may find gardening success harder to attain than in an outdoor setting. So, before you think about gardening in your pajamas, take a moment to learn about the disadvantages of indoor gardening and decide for yourself.

Indoor Gardening Pros

Liz's viewpoint: If given the option, most plants would probably choose to grow outdoors, where the sunlight is plentiful and there's room to spread out. But it's not up to the plants - it's up to you! And if your outdoor gardening space is limited or nonexistent, indoor gardening is the way to go. Even if you do have the space, there are plenty of advantages of indoor gardening when it comes to controlling the climate and pest protection.

Necessity and flexibility.

The most prominent of reasons to grow plants indoors is necessity. While we may dream of expansive gardens, many of us live in houses or apartments with little to no outdoor space. But this doesn't mean we can't flex our green thumbs. You'd be surprised how many plants you can fit in a small space, especially if you're willing to build up. Hanging baskets, shelves, and wall-mounted containers can utilize a small, sunny space to the maximum. Does your house not get enough natural light? A very small investment of a couple grow lights and an outlet timer will simulate a day's worth of outdoor light sun very effectively.

Less pest or disease issues.

There are some benefits of gardening indoors that really set it apart from outdoor gardens. One of the most obvious advantages of indoor gardening is protection from pests. While outdoor plants can fall prey to anything and everything from deer to slugs, indoor gardens have built in and very effective protection. The same goes for weed seeds and soil or airborne diseases. Indoor gardens may not be totally pest and disease free, but you do have a lot more control over what can get to them.

You control the environment.

Need more reasons to grow plants indoors? Just like the control you have over pests and diseases, your indoor garden will be much less susceptible to the whims of Mother Nature. If a growing season is too wet or too dry, too hot or too cold, your plants won't know any better. And if you have a particularly short growing season, your indoor plants won't mind. With the right treatment, you can grow winter tomatoes in Canada!

Indoor Gardening Cons

Shelley's viewpoint:

The concept of indoor gardening may seem like a very attractive one when we envision growing bountiful plants and produce without ever setting foot outdoors. We may be inclined to think that gardening indoors is easier than growing outdoors, as we would not be subject to Mother Nature's whims and would have more control of the growing environment. The truth is that indoor gardening comes with its own unique challenges and obstacles.

Pet problems.

Your beloved pets can wreak havoc on your houseplants either by munching on the leaves or - and this is one of the biggest pitfalls of gardening indoors - by using the plant's soil as a litterbox. Eww! In addition, many plants are toxic to our feline and canine friends. This greatly limits what plants you can grow in your home and the places you situate them in. Your options are much more diverse outdoors without the worry of harming your furry friends inside.

Pestilence and disease.

Okay, perhaps they may be somewhat fewer BUT insect populations that take reign on indoor plants, such as aphids, whiteflies and mealybugs, are harder to contain and control due to the lack of biological controls, such as predatory insects, which help keep these detrimental insects at bay. Plant diseases can also take hold if environmental conditions are awry, such as poor air circulation, overwatering, high humidity, etc. - all of which are harder to control in an indoor setting.

Environmental concerns.

You may not have to contend with Mother Nature's fury, but when growing plants indoors, it may be difficult to meet and maintain all of their environmental needs. Space, lighting, temperature and humidity must all be considered. These considerations will either make growing certain plants in your home an impossibility or make them high maintenance for you. It may even adversely impact your wallet as certain additional items, such as nutrient solutions, grow lights and fans, may be necessary to foster the environmental requirements for successful growth. This is just another of many indoor gardening cons.

More housework.

Do you like additional housework? Yeah, me neither. Well, it's just another one of the disadvantages of indoor gardening. Indoor houseplants require a routine gentle dusting or cleaning in order to look and grow better. Dust accumulates and blocks sunlight, hindering photosynthesis which, in turn, stresses the plant and makes it more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Disappointed taste buds.

Need more reasons against indoor gardening? While taste is unique and subjective to every individual, the debate does exist on whether indoor grown vegetables match the flavor or quality of their outdoor counterparts. While you may be growing winter tomatoes inside, the flavor depends on many variables, such as the amount of sun, nutrient type and water quality. Sunlight, in particular, can make a big difference in terms of boosting flavor and even augmenting plant yields.

While there are many lighting options available for indoor gardens, it is probably safe to say that nothing compares to the intensity and benefit of bona fide sunlight.

How Reasons against Indoor Gardening Compare to its Benefits

The reasons to grow plants indoors are varied, but the benefits are great. Whether you want to outsmart Mother Nature or you just don't have access to her, indoor gardening is a wonderful alternative to its more traditional counterpart. Still, the pitfalls of gardening indoors are many, and you must decide whether to rise and meet these unique challenges and whether you will be content with growing plants from a limited catalogue of choices, since not all plants are ideal for growing indoors without extra accommodations.

So many landscaping problems can be solved by growing vines in the garden. Does your backyard need screening from nosy neighbors? Does your garden lack vibrant color, texture, or vertical interest? All of these problems can be answered by growing vines. But if you've ever planted a lovely wisteria vine or honeysuckle, you may have noticed it quickly taking over without consistent maintenance. These and many other vines are prized for their beauty and versatility, as well as their ability to rapidly colonize unattractive areas. The downsides to planting vines like these are their unmanageability. Rampant, aggressive establishment can quickly cover other wanted plants and even lead to such things as breakage on fences with thick, rugged stems. Some vine planting drawbacks may help you decide if vines are right for your space and which ones to avoid for an easy going landscape.

Vine Planting Pros

Teo's viewpoint: Any gardener asked about vine planting pros will have a hard time figuring out where to begin, since there are so many reasons to grow vines. Read on to find out about the many advantages of growing vines in your garden. Colorful reasons to grow vines. Vines can add aesthetically to the beauty of your outdoor space. Every vine you plant adds green to the garden palette because of the foliage. But many also offer flowers in a variety of shapes and shades. Flower colors range from subtle blue to blazing orange. Annual vines are those you plant for one season only. They grow, rise, twine, flower and die with winter. Perennial vines last longer. You can find both annuals and perennials with bright blossoms and some even bear fruit. Vines add vertical interest. The benefits of vines do not end with their flowers. Vines climb high up a wall, a house or a tree, adding immediate vertical interest to a backyard space. They can soften harsh corners and also cover less-than-lovely walls or fences. Vines can help create shade and fragrance. If your garden lacks shade, vines grown to cover a pergola create shade instantly. And flowering vines bring fragrance into your garden, as well as hummingbirds and bees. They make great screening options. If you want to protect your outdoor space from those passing by, vines growing on a fence or trellis can do the trick. You can also use vines to create a shady screen for a porch or deck. Vines can create exceptionally ornamental living screens, depending on which ones you select. For a high wow factor, pick vines with gorgeous flowers, brilliant leaves or eye-catching fruit. Low-care garden guests. Best of all, vines are by large easy-care plants. Once perennial vines are established, they are low-maintenance garden guests. Give them an occasional drink and train them where to go, and you are done. Annual vines have other attributes that are attractive. They don't cost much, grow like Jack's beanstalk after planting, and can create a quick garden focus for the summer months.

Cons of Planting Vines

Bonnie's viewpoint: One of the classic representations of vines in the garden is the English ivy, fetchingly draped over beautiful old buildings. But its self-adhesive nature will slowly rip away siding, mortar and other crucial elements to the construction of the building. This is just one example of vine disadvantages in the garden. Although vines are attractive tumbling or climbing additions to some garden spaces, there are serious cons of planting vines unless steps are taken to minimize their negative impact. Building damage. Not all vines have the capacity to damage buildings and structures, but some develop large, thick stems that literally strangle posts or have cement-like secretions that tear apart the basic connective tissues of brick, wood and other materials. Some of these might include wisteria, English ivy, trumpet vine, honeysuckle, and Virginia creeper. Thorns and debris. These vines can best be considered a nuisance, especially for maintenance. Several climbing roses produce nasty thorns that can make pruning and staking a nightmare. Vines that produce fruit, such as porcelain vine, drop debris that is not only unsightly but can leave a slimy, staining mess below. Unwanted spreading. One of the classic examples of this is the lovely but overly zealous spreader, morning glory. Honeysuckle, too, is a verdant plant that will exceed its boundaries joyfully, colonizing the tops of buildings, running roughshod over garden beds and, in general, making itself a pest. Cypress vine, trumpet vine and moon vine are also pesky colonizers. Native plant takeover. This particular downside to planting vines has been expressed with the kudzu vine. This Asiatic native was planted to stabilize soil across the American South. It very quickly began to encroach on native areas and soon covered many once wild spaces. Its control has been difficult and certain areas still experience this hostile takeover. Tree damage. Vines on trees are extremely elegant and eye catching vertical additions. However, these types of vine disadvantages are twofold. One, they can damage bark, penetrating the trunk and inviting pests and disease, and two being that they can strangle and girdle plants. The stranglers will also rip off limbs in extreme cases. These downsides of planting vines on trees should make you think twice if you want healthy trees. Maintenance. Even mannerly vines need maintenance. This can be difficult on plants that cover buildings or trees. Consider the eventual spread of the plant before you install certain vines, especially if you are not comfortable with ladders. This is one of the main vine disadvantages in very high locations.

Weighing the Vine Planting Drawbacks and Pluses

There are not just cons to planting vines, since their gleeful, scrambling nature and various forms may be just the right plant for certain situations. Just remember that the vine should be the right plant for that space. In the correct location, even some of the most aggressive vines are perfectly suited for coverage and greenery. Consider the level of maintenance you wish to provide and what elements the plant may have that could turn it into a monster instead of a delight.

Even if you've never read about hydroponics, you'll probably guess from the "hydro" that it involves water. Hydroponics is a gardening technique where you grow plants, including vegetables, without soil - using instead a mix of water and fertilizer. It's the cool new kid on the block, but like every other idea before it, hydroponics has advantages and disadvantages. Read on for a discussion of the pros and cons of hydroponics and decide if this method of gardening is right for you.

Advantages of Hydroponic Gardening

Mary's viewpoint: Hydroponics is a method of growing food using nutrient-rich water solutions instead of soil. Nearly any crop can be grown hydroponically any time of year. The benefits of hydroponics are numerous, and when it comes to weighing pros and cons, farmers, biologists and non-profit organizations around the world are convinced that the pros of hydroponics easily outnumber the downsides of hydroponic systems. Fresh, high-quality food for more people. Research indicates that hydroponic gardening's positive effects include higher yields of nutrient-rich foods. Food is grown locally and transportation costs are reduced substantially. Fresh, healthy food is more affordable for people who live in isolated communities or in arid regions where soil isn't suitable for growing food crops. Reduced water use in drought-ravaged areas. Hydroponically grown crops utilize a small amount of water which circulates in a closed loop system, delivering water straight to plant roots. Dependence on the weather is minimized and water use is reduced by as much as 70 percent. Hydroponics has the potential to solve many of the world's water problems. Food for densely populated urban areas. Hydroponically grown foods don't require vast acres of fertile land. Plants are grown closely together and crops can be grown in stacked systems, which saves space by allowing foods to be grown vertically. Rooftop farms are already producing food for city dwellers in the United States, Canada, China, Europe and Israel. Plants can also be grown hydroponically indoors. Jobs provide economic stability. Life is more stable and health is improved when people can grow food for themselves and their communities. Large hydroponic operations hire numerous employees to take care of packaging, shipping, maintenance, warehousing and sales. Reduction of the carbon footprint. Transporting food over long distance isn't a factor and energy is saved when food is produced locally. More energy is saved when crops require no intensive plowing, seeding, weeding, fertilization and cultivation. Hydroponic growing is hygienic, so diseases are limited. Because soil-borne pests are eliminated, no pesticides are required.

Disadvantages of Hydroponic Gardening

Teo's viewpoint: And now the bad news"¦you can run into problems with gardening hydroponically. It is not a perfect gardening system and it may not be right for you. So let's talk about the disadvantages of hydroponic gardening. Initial costs are high. A packet of seeds and a shovel can get you into gardening in the backyard, but you'll need to invest some green-backs before you see green shoots hydroponically. You need to invest in the set-up equipment if you want to make hydroponic gardening work for you. You'll have to purchase a light, containers, a pump and the nutrient solutions. Yes, you are looking at several hundred dollars at least to get started. It can be unforgiving. When you put in a veggies garden in your backyard, you have a little wiggle room. If you forget to water Monday, you can water Tuesday. If you don't feel like weeding this weekend, next weekend will do just fine. If you are the kind of person who needs this elbow room in terms of gardening responsibilities, you may well have problems with hydroponic gardening. If you are growing plants in water with nutrients, they must have that water and those nutrients or they will die. Their very survival depends on your punctual, reliable engagement. Yet another of the cons of hydroponics you'll face. Remember that the word hydroponics includes the Greek work for water, "hydro," but it also includes the Greek work for labor, "ponos." Your gardening labor time may be reduced to 10 minutes a day with a hydroponic gardening system, but failure to put in those 10 minutes can kill all your plants. Disappointments are inevitable. A whole other set of disadvantages of hydroponic gardening can be lumped under the term "disappointments." The system works great for some plants, but you won't have a 100% success rate. Your tomatoes might flower, but never fruit. Your peppers may fail. Your lettuce may refuse to grow at all. Diseases can spread through the nutrient solution and kill everything. In fact, there are no guarantees that your crops will all thrive. If you're a perfectionist, this may be one of the cons of hydroponics that sends you back to the soil.

How Do Hydroponic Gardening's Positive Effects Compare to its Cons?

True, it costs a bit to get started, BUT this is an initial cost that pays for itself in the long run. Most small-scale home gardeners won't even need that much to begin. With higher yields of nutrient-rich foods in a much smaller setting, and without all the plowing, seeding, weeding, fertilization, etc., who wouldn't opt for this gardening concept? And as far as disappointment goes, frankly, anyone that gardens period regardless of where or how is apt to suffer a few of these now and then. Overall, hydroponic gardening seems to have a lot of good things to offer but, ultimately, it boils down to the individual gardener.

Gardening sustainably in a way that improves soil and plant health is a responsibility of every land steward. There is some controversy regarding some methods, however, like lasagna gardening, that specifically relate to its benefits and efficiency. Lasagna gardening is a slightly lazy way of smothering out unwanted weeds and plants and enhancing soil over time. It relies on recyclable newspaper and cardboard as its main products in achieving this and has many benefits. The cons of lasagna gardening, on the other hand, include the consumption of time to build and finish beds, finding safe compostable products, the increase of certain pests and the site size in which it would work. Because of this, it's recommended that you consider both sides carefully and then make an informed decision best for you.

Lasagna Gardening Pros

Amy's viewpoint: I ascribe to the Type A and Type B personality theory wherein Type A people are more competitive, perfectionists, and impatient and Type B folks are the opposite. Type A people might call Type B people lazy. A perfect example of this includes those of us that enjoy implementing lasagna gardening methods. I'm a Type B person and see the numerous benefits of lasagna gardening. In contrast, others (Type A gardeners) may only see the downsides of lasagna gardening. In a valiant but no less vain attempt to sway the naysayers towards lasagna gardening pros, here are some of the best reasons to plant a lasagna garden.

It's cost effective. The first lasagna garden advantage is cost. This argument might possibly be the only one that will convince anyone known to pinch a penny or two. The whole point of lasagna gardening is to create a garden bed out of layered materials. Among these materials can be brown items (carbon) like newspapers, leaves or cardboard alternated with green layers (nitrogen) such as grass clippings, kitchen scraps, or coffee grounds. Because you are recycling everything you already have at home, the cost is significantly lower to complete a bed than if you bought plastic wrapped bags of soil that may have come from far away. Plus, you don't have to pay to have your cardboard and newspaper taken to the dump, or your compostable food waste either.

Improves soil. Additional benefits of lasagna gardening include the building up of soil. Lasagna gardens are perfect for areas with poor soil since they are built atop the soil surface. And the layers in the lasagna garden hold nutrients in the soil longer than if compost or fertilizer was applied to the surface of the soil. Since you are basically layering a compost pile, the process of decomposition naturally amends the soil so you don't have to, so nutrients last an entire season. As the lasagna garden is "cooking,"it breaks down into nutrient rich soil, rich in microorganisms. This improved soil holds water, slows evaporation and run-off, and keeps root systems cool.

Low maintenance. My favorite lasagna garden advantage has to be its simplicity. While it may be the lazy man's way, I prefer to enjoy my time in the garden rather than worrying with a lot of maintenance. With lasagna gardening, there is no need to dig or till and no need to dig out sod. All you have to do is alternate carbon and nitrogen materials and keep the "cooking" garden area wet. Lasagna gardening also blocks out weeds. Say no more to this lazy gardener! And it's certainly a better weed retarding option than a broad spectrum glyphosate herbicide that may be toxic to us and our pets.

Ready to plant when you want. Lastly, lasagna gardens can sit and "cook" for a few months until they are ready to plant, or for those that are impatient (Type A), you can put a layer of compost as the top most layer and plant the garden immediately.

Cons of Lasagna Gardening

Bonnie's viewpoint: Lasagna gardening makes sense in a way, until you take a closer look at the practice. Layers of compostable material intermingled with carbon sources, often discarded newspaper or cardboard, break down and improve soil nutrient availability, tilth and kill many pesky weeds during the process. Yet, there are downsides to lasagna gardening, even from the sustainable and organic contingent. Lasagna gardening is also called no-till, a practice touted for reducing carbon admissions, but this is one of the main reasons against lasagna gardening. Each part of the method has its detractors, giving us several reasons against lasagna gardening.

Carbon sources. Its fine and dandy to utilize recyclable paper and cardboard, but failing to send these to a recycling center means the paper mills will need to expend time, money and energy to create more of these high demand products. Instead of using these types of materials, turn to straw, wood chips, dry leaf litter and other dry, brown sources of carbon.

Slow nutrient return and soil oxygen content. As these heavy layers break down, soil oxygen levels are greatly reduced because they are more or less suffocated by the lasagna layers. Lack of oxygen means aerobic bacteria cannot do their work efficiently. This slows down the decomposition process and means that many released nutrients will not absorb into soil well but may, instead, leach away in rain run-off.

Time. One of the lasagna garden drawbacks is related to the amount of time it takes to gather and move all the organic material necessary for the carbon/nitrogen layering. The amount of time it takes for the layers to break down also comes into play as one of the major downsides to lasagna gardening.

Safety of materials. Many of our cardboard boxes come from overseas and from places where strict rules are not in place as to what can be in the dyes allowed on the boxes. These will leach from the cardboard as it breaks down. There may be petroleum products and certain chemicals that can contaminate your vegetable patch. It is difficult to verify the potential toxins in some carbon materials.

Garden size. It simply would not be practical to try to do an entire field in the lasagna garden method. Gathering enough paper and recycling would require a concerted, multi-faceted neighborhood effort. Unless you open a recycling drop off center on your land, you must source all the material needed for at least two layers of carbon. Take the square footage of your field and multiply it times at least two and you know how many square feet of newspaper you will need to find. This is one of the really impractical reasons against lasagna gardening.

Pests. While it is true that lasagna gardening will diminish some pests, it will encourage worms, slugs and snails. The worms, we can all agree, are a good thing, but not so much the other two slimy pests. Slugs and snails are major downsides of lasagna gardening but a bi-product of the practice. The layers create warm, moist spaces these critters love. Vigilance is then necessary to ferret out these plant munchers.

Lasagna Garden Drawbacks vs. its Benefits

Sure, there is some work and time involved, but there would be anyway to build and fill a raised bed. Yes, a lasagna garden takes a while to break down, but it's really just a few months, months in which Type B gardeners can be busy planning what to plant in the new beds! The pros and cons of cons of lasagna gardening must be carefully weighed. While the practice may be perfect for one type of gardener, it may be more trouble, expense and waste for another. The practice has good sustainable roots but the acquisition of safe material, time needed and other issues, may make it completely impractical for many. Overall, each benefit and detraction should be measured before undertaking a lasagna garden or any other composting effort.

The benefits of no-till garden beds are numerous. If you want healthier soil, less erosion and runoff, reduced reliance on fertilizers, and a big chunk of free time, stop tilling your garden. A no-till garden will save you time, energy, and money, and will promote better plant growth too. Tilling your soil also has its benefits. It changes the soil's porosity and texture, incorporates organic matter quickly, and helps plants establish full root systems quickly.

There is quite a discussion going on as to whether tilling has downsides and that is inarguably true. However, the benefits of tillage may outweigh the disadvantages. Some reasons to till may help balance the argument and help you decide which method is right for your garden.

Tilling Pros in the Garden

Bonnie's viewpoint: There are many reasons to till soil. In fact, professional farmers recommend tilling twice per year - spring and fall. Here are some good reasons for tilling the garden.

Warms spring soil. Among the many tilling advantages is the fact that soil warms more quickly in spring when tilled. This means an earlier jump on the growing season. Tilling increases air in soil and stimulates the activity of aerobic bacteria. That helps break down organic matter more quickly, releasing heat as energy.

Amends soil in fall. When you till in fall, you can also add organic matter such as the season's dying vegetable plants. These will gradually compost in the soil, increasing nutrients and tilth. Compost, leaf litter, grass clippings and other organic amendments are powerful sources of nitrogen and carbon, two elements necessary for plant growth and good soil composition.

Aerates the soil. If you are looking for more benefits of tillage, try the fact that it aerates soil. Loosening the soil not only provides a good footing for newly germinated roots but it helps water, nutrients and oxygen reach those roots. No-till systems create a bed that has excess runoff, which can carry away topsoil and leave crops parched. Tilled soils have pockets that can secrete water but they also allow excess water to percolate down through soil which avoids sodden roots.

Helps with weed control. If you are not a fan of weeds, and most of us aren't, weed prevention is another of the tillage pros. Early tilling can chop up annoying weeds when they are young, preventing them from getting a foot hold in the garden. Fall tilling will reduce perennial weeds by chopping them off at the knees so-to-speak and keeping the plant from retaining energy during its winter dormancy.

Eliminates potential pests. Another of the tilling advantages is that it can disrupt soil-borne larvae and insects that will emerge in spring and have their way with the garden. Many pests overwinter in soil and tilling will kill many of these.

No-Till Advantages

Mary Ellen's viewpoint: There are a lot of reasons not to till in your garden. Ultimately, you have to do what is best in your garden, what you have the time and energy for, and what you think will give you the most benefits. That said, here are some thought-provoking reasons why you shouldn't till your garden.

Tilling promotes erosion. If you want to wear away your garden and landscape a little bit at a time, by all means till. Every time you do it, you promote erosion by reducing the particle size of your soil. These can then more easily blow away in the wind or get washed away by rain. This causes yet more problems, including an increased need to rely on fertilizer. Erosion can also be damaging to nearby waterways from runoff.

Tilling strips nitrogen from the soil. There are little microorganisms living under your top layer of soil. They are hard at work producing nitrogen to benefit your plants. When you till, you expose them to the sun and they die, reducing the nitrogen in your soil.

You're creating hardpan. Hardpan is compacted soil that restricts the flow of water and nutrients. When you till regularly or too much, you end up creating this thick, dense layer as the small particles of soil created work their way down into the soil. Over time this compacts, creating the hardpan, and it can be difficult to break up later.

No-till gardens save time and energy. There are many more beneficial things you could be doing in the garden. Tilling takes time and it's hard. It can be back-breaking work. Save your time and your aching muscles and go no-till.

No-till gardens have better, moister soil. Tillage destroys surface reside that helps to hold moisture and nutrients in the soil. By not tilling, you will end up with healthier soil overall and soil that does not dry out easily.

Do Benefits of a No-Till Garden Outweigh Tilling Pros?

There are so many no-till advantages that it makes you wonder why you would ever take up this practice in the first place. Save your time, money, and energy and spend them on better ways to improve your garden. A no-till garden can be done in half the time with greater results.

That said, while no-till methods have their place, especially in commercial settings, they require more weed and pest management, reduce moisture in soil and do not allow for the incorporation of organic matter that will hit roots directly for good growth. Very little air gets into compacted soil, which means fungal issues are more rampant.

Soil that hasn't been worked will also take longer to warm up, delaying planting and growth. While tilling should be minimized to just twice per year, as long as organic matter is worked into the soil, the process is an improvement and one that benefits plants and your pantry.

The soil you choose for your plants can impact their health and the rate at which they grow. Not all soils are created equal. Should you use potting soil or gardening soil, and why would it make a difference? The answer lies in the purpose for which the soil is intended. Plants in ground have different needs than container plants. There can be many reasons to use potting soil instead of garden soil when you're growing plants in containers. For the most part, potting soil will keep container-grown plants healthier. But there are some situations where potting mix is too expensive and garden soil, which is usually free, will work just as well. With outdoor container plants, you have the option of using either a potting mix or a homemade mix of garden soil plus amendments. Finding out when to use garden soil and what its benefits are against potting soil is important for this reason.

Garden Soil Pros and Cons

Bonnie's viewpoint: Garden soils are developed primarily for in-ground plants. Most garden soil is free but will need annual amendments to replace nutrients that were used up and keep the site from compacting. Those are just two of the garden soil pros and cons, but there are many more. Deciding whether to use garden or potting soil is an individual choice. That said, you will likely have better luck if you use amended soil or purchased garden soil outdoors. Let's walk through some garden soil pros/cons to see why. Benefits of garden soil. Potting soils are formulated to have average plant pH needs, provide drainage and usually have basic nutrients. Garden soils vary by location and how much amendment the gardener has put into the soil, unless you use a purchased product which can be expensive in large areas. These usually have a high amount of organic matter in the form of compost. One of the advantages of garden soil is that it is easily renewable. Simply saving kitchen scraps and incorporating them into the soil can improve the texture, composition and nutrient density. Another of the benefits of garden soil is that it packs well around plant roots, allowing them to develop a thick root base. When to use garden soil. Garden soils are ideally suited to outdoor plants. Most garden soils are either clay, sand or loam but their composition can be changed by adding natural amendments like compost. You can use them in containers but some perlite and peat moss needs to be added to increase porosity. Do not use garden soil in containers that will be brought indoors, as they may have insect eggs that could hatch. The pH of unaltered garden soil is best suited for native plants. That is because plants indigenous to the area are adapted to that type of soil and pH. Starting veggies outdoors or building a flower bed are excellent uses for garden soil. Adjusting garden soil. There are very inexpensive soil tests available at most nursery centers. You can use these to determine the pH of your soil and any nutrient deficiencies. The pH for veggies is between 6.0 and 8.0. This range is also perfect for fruit trees and most ornamentals. A few plants, like hydrangea, prefer a slightly more acidic soil which can be made by adding sulfur or gypsum. If your soil is too acidic, you can sweeten it with lime. Adding several layers of compost or well-rotted manure to the garden bed will enhance the nutrient content, porosity, and improve soil structure naturally.

Potting Soil Pros and Cons

Ilana's viewpoint: Using garden soil is all well and good for outdoor garden beds and the like, but it's just as important to learn about potting soil pros and cons and when to use potting soil for gardening. Potting soil is better for containers. Potting mixes are typically composed of ingredients that hold onto water and nutrients, and others that promote good drainage and aeration. For example, they may contain peat, vermiculite (an expanded clay material), perlite, coconut coir, compost, or bark. Quality potting mixes are much less compactible than garden soil. These qualities help potted plants deal with the difficulties of life in a container. Potting soil may be identical to potting mix, or it may contain actual soil as one of the ingredients. Read the label to know what you are getting. If soil is on the ingredient mix, the product is good for adding to outdoor raised beds or outdoor containers, but it's not ideal for indoor container use. Soil-free potting mixes are best for most indoor plants, but they're usually too light and fluffy for garden bed use. Potting soil better fits specific plants. Many varieties of potting soil are available at gardening stores, hardware stores, and other outlets. These may be designed for different types of plants and situations. You'll find cactus and succulent soil, mixes for acid-loving plants, African violet mixes, and water-holding mixes designed for people who frequently forget to water their plants. Potting soils are easier overall. If you use garden soil for outdoor containers or raised beds, you'll have to add a source of nutrients, and you may have to increase the percentage of organic matter, improve the drainage, or change the pH. To do that, you'll probably have to buy several different amendments to mix in. On the other hand, potting soil and potting mixes are usually designed to be used right out of the bag. You can simply fill up the container and add the plant. Some potting soil mixes also include fertilizers, compost, worm castings, bone meal, or other ingredients that provide nutrients or improve the qualities of soil. Fresh potting mix lessens chance of disease. Another of the top potting soil benefits is a lower chance of disease. This is especially true if the bag is labeled "sterile mix." Sterile potting mix is great for starting seeds, since seedlings are especially vulnerable to disease. Look for mixes labeled specifically for seed starting. Potting soil cons. The main disadvantage of potting soils is that it can be expensive, while soil from your own garden is free. Some plants can be harmed by a potting mix intended for another type of plant. Also, some potting mixes are not suitable for organic gardening because of synthetic ingredients they contain. How Do Potting Soil Benefits Hold Up Compared to Garden Soil? Potting and garden soils have very different compositions and, therefore, very different purposes. In most cases, garden soil is good for every outdoor application, while potting soil is best for indoor purposes like seed starting and growing houseplants. While potting soil has many benefits for container plants, the expense is probably not worth it if you're potting outdoor plants on a large scale. Economically, garden soil may be fixed for very little money and is best for large garden spaces. Overall, both have their place in the gardener's world and should be used in the correct application for best results.

The Upsides And Downsides Of Vertical Gardening

Flat, horizontal gardening is so boring. Liven up your garden with vertical growth. The benefits of a vertical garden are plentiful, from greater visual interest to making use of otherwise unusable space.

On the other hand, while vertical gardening can be spectacular when done correctly, it may also be a trendy gardening fad with more troubles than you expect. While there are many benefits, it's important to consider the cons of vertical gardening too.

Vertical Gardening Pros

Mary Ellen's viewpoint: Vertical gardening goes against the norm, the usual way of doing things. So why should you plant up? Advantages of vertical gardening abound.

Here are a few reasons you will want to start making use of vertical space in your garden:

Vertical gardening looks cool. One really simple reason to try vertical gardening is that it adds such great visual interest to a space. Whether you're creating a green wall or simply growing vines up a trellis, a vertical garden adds a new element to your patio, yard, or even indoor space.

Unleash your creativity. Sure, you can get creative arranging plants in beds, but add another layer of creativity as you figure out how to grow up. There are plenty of ideas online for vertical planters, wall planters, trellises, and other unique ways to grow vertically. Use these for inspiration and come up with your own solutions.

Grow more in a small space. The most practical of all the advantages of vertical gardening is that it allows you to grow more in a space that is limited. If you have a small yard or garden but want to grow more flowers, herbs, or even vegetables, utilize vertical space. Even the smallest spaces, like a balcony, can be maximized with vertical growing. Everything is easier in a vertical garden. Your vertical garden, once you get it started, will be the easiest part of your garden to maintain. You will have minimal weeds, if any, to pull out, and you won't have to bend or crouch to access your plants, to water them, or to harvest them.

Vertical gardens provide cover and privacy. If you use a trellis or fence, or even create a wall for your vertical garden, you can use it to hide something unsightly, like that big AC unit behind the house. You can also use vertical growing to fill in open spaces and create a privacy shield for your yard, patio, or balcony.

Grow healthier plants. Keeping plants up in the vertical space increases airflow and keeps them healthier. Being above the soil may also protect your plants from soil-borne pests and diseases, like fungal and bacterial infections.

Cons of Vertical Gardening

Mary's viewpoint: It's not that I'm entirely opposed to the concept of vertical gardening, but I feel it is always important to assess all aspects, both good and bad, of any particular garden method before jumping in head first. So with that in mind, here are some downsides to vertical gardening to consider:

Moisture and mold. Vertical gardens planted against a brick or masonry wall may drip and harbor moisture that can damage the structure. Similarly, a vertical garden planted above a deck can stain and discolor whatever lies beneath. Vertical gardening is best around concrete or other building materials that are impervious to moisture.

Bugs and germs. Vertical gardens can be home to water-borne pathogens that flow from the top of the plant to the lower foliage, then spreading to neighboring plants and soil. Remember that splashing water spreads germs and disease quickly. On the other hand, pathogens spread more slowly in soil, limited by how far moisture seeps or mud splashes.

Sun blockers. When it comes to vertical gardening disadvantages, keep in mind that vertical gardens are tall structures that may cast shadows over lower-growing plants. If you choose to grow a vertical garden, consider the needs of plants that may be prevented from receiving adequate sunlight. Consider shade plants, if necessary.

Increased maintenance. Vertical gardens generally require more maintenance than plants in the ground. Plants in a vertical garden generally need more water and may require more fertilizer since they are often exposed to the drying effects of wind and sun. Many plants will require regular pruning, and an indoor vertical garden will probably require hand pollination, a rewarding job that can be very labor intensive.

Lack of support. Vertical gardens may not be sturdy enough to support large plants such as wisteria vines, melons or tomatoes, although they may work well for sweet peas and other lighter plants. If you want to grow heavy plants, you may need to anchor the set-up to a more substantial supportive structure. This complication is one of the many downsides of vertical gardening.

Do Downsides to Vertical Gardening Outweigh the Pros?

Vertical gardening pros are not limited to those listed here. There are many more reasons to grow up and not just out. Find the reasons most important to you and then run with it and enjoy your new, multi-dimensional garden. Don't jump into vertical gardening until you have a thorough understanding of maintenance requirements, potential problems, and other good reasons not to plant a vertical garden.

If your garden lacking a vertical element, you could always consider columnar evergreen trees or tall, bold ornamental grasses.

Deadheading - this common practice has been utilized by gardeners for years, but why? There are many reasons for deadheading spent blooms in the garden, but is deadheading necessary? To deadhead or not to deadhead plants is the question, and here we will explore both sides of this debate. Pros of Deadheading Plants Darcy's viewpoint: Reasons for deadheading? Promoting more blooms, giving the garden a tidier appearance, preventing reseeding and also just because it can be a relaxing, almost meditative, garden activity. Let's take a closer look at each of these positive effects of deadheading. More blooms: Blooms contain the reproductive organs of a plant. The main purpose for the colorful, sweet scented flowers is to attract pollinators which will aid in the fertilization of the plant's reproductive organs. Once the blooms have been fertilized, they will begin to form seed. As the plant puts this energy into seed formation, the flower is no longer necessary and will begin to wilt and die. By cutting off these wilting blooms, the plant's energy is redirected into forming new blooms to begin this natural reproductive cycle over again. While not all plants rebloom, many will continue to produce flowers if these spent flower heads are removed. Tidy garden: While some plants do produce attractive seed heads, generally a flower bed full of wilted blooms and seed heads can look neglected, unkempt and forgotten about. One of the pros of deadheading is that it's a quick and easy way to keep your garden looking clean and fresh. As some plants put their energy into forming seeds, the whole plant may begin to look sickly. Leaves may yellow and drop, as the plant figures its work is done and it can die back or go dormant. Deadheading can extend the plant's life. Controls reseeding: Many plants produce an abundance of seeds, which will easily germinate wherever they land. Deadheading blooms before they go to seed can prevent unwanted plants from popping up all over the garden. Gardeners who like a very tidy, controlled landscape often avoid plants that are known to be prolific reseeders. These plants don't need to be avoided; they just need to be deadheaded. Relaxing: In addition to these deadheading benefits, it can be a very relaxing activity. I personally have worked out many problems while quietly sitting outside on a beautiful day just picking off spent blooms in hanging baskets or flowerbeds. Cons of Deadheading in the Garden Nikki's viewpoint: Sure, if you're a control freak or OCD, maybe you have an insatiable desire to snip away at all those spent blooms but "is deadheading necessary?" Are there downsides to deadheading your garden plants? Maybe I'm one of the select few that sees just as many reasons not to deadhead. Don't get me wrong"¦I'm not opposed to the idea and I do practice this technique from time to time, but sparingly. And here's why. Seed production: While a number of plants can be deadheaded for a neater appearance, it won't necessarily make them produce more flowers. And what about those of us that actually want the plants to produce seeds? Plants can get pretty expensive, so it only makes sense that cheap gardeners like myself would want to save seeds for growing next season, especially in the case of annuals. If you're pinching off those spent flowers, you're denying the plant from producing all those wonderful next generation seeds - some of which could even be precious heirlooms you want to hold onto. Unusual interest: We shouldn't try so hard to grow the perfect garden. Let go of the notion that only we know best what the garden should be like or how it should look. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and oftentimes what people view as an unkempt garden, others see as beauty. Many types of plants have attractive seed heads that can actually provide unusual interest to the landscape, especially in fall and winter when nothing much else is growing. They can even be put to use indoors or utilized for craft projects. Wildlife: In addition to providing interest in the garden, many of those spent flowers provide shelter and their seeds much needed food for birds and small mammals in winter when other food sources are scarce. Not only will leaving some of these help them out, but it's also fun to watch wildlife in their natural environment. Serendipitous: Yes, there are lots of plants that are prolific reseeders and this could cause problems in some places. That said, it can also be fun to watch your garden change as new plants pop up in unexpected places. I refer to this as serendipitous gardening. Many seedlings can produce interesting flowers too - maybe even one of a kind. Allow nature to have its way on occasion. You might find that it can be full of pleasant surprises. And, if you're worried about too many "jumpers," simply deadhead some and leave the others. How Do Deadheading Benefits Measure Up? As you can see, when it comes to deadheading in the garden, it is really a matter of personal preference. Even with all the benefits of deadheading, you need to remember that plants in nature do just fine without being deadheaded. This practice may help with the aesthetics of your garden, but it's rarely important for the health of your plants. In fact, whether you choose to pinch out those spent blooms or not, it won't have any adverse effects either way.

Issues with growing mint aren't rooted in difficult care or growing conditions. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Mint is tenacious, and it spreads quickly and effectively. Unsuspecting gardeners plant it with the best of intentions, and then they're stuck with it forever. Because of this, the overwhelming majority of gardeners would say there aren't many reasons to plant mint in the garden. Yes, the plant has a tendency to become invasive when left to its own devices, but growing mint responsibly is another thing altogether. Let's examine both the good and bad aspects of growing this herb so you can determine the best course of action to take.

Pros of Growing Mint in the Garden

Nikki's viewpoint: Some of us see nothing wrong with planting mint in the garden - if it's done with care. If done responsibly, there can be many pros of growing mint, most of which you can easily enjoy and reap from. So what exactly are the benefits of mint in the garden? Mint advantages abound, and here are just a few reasons to plant mint in the garden.

First of all, there are so many varieties of mint to choose from that you're certain to find one that suits your needs, and your site. Speaking of which, it's a hardy little plant that grows nearly anywhere and tolerates various conditions so you have little to worry about with regards to keeping mint alive.

Got an area in need of coverage? Mint makes an excellent ground cover in a suitable location well away from your other garden plants. Simply plant it in an out-of-the-way nook and enjoy! Yes, some types of mint have runners, which make its spread inevitable, but for the most part these are easy to pull up. Those that don't have runners are easier to pull when young and if you grow the herb for use in the kitchen, frequent harvesting can help keep the plant more behaved.

And while it can be a bit aggressive at times, there are ways to tame the beast while taking advantage of its plus sides. For example, you can grow mint in a container. Likewise, you can opt for a raised bed if its own. Mint doesn't just thrive in containers, it grows well indoors, too, given the right conditions. Heck, you can even cut the plant way back and easily root the cuttings for an endless supply in the kitchen.

In addition to the plant's ornamental value, mint is a useful herb having a number of uses that include both culinary and medicinal. It's also nutritious, being high in fiber and vitamin A. The plant is great when used to complement dishes, and makes a wonderful addition to tea and other drinks.

You can use mint for aromatherapy too, from peppermint and spearmint to chocolate mint and pineapple - they all smell wonderful! In fact, the herb is well known for its ability to relax muscles, soothe indigestion and serves well as a mild decongestant when you're all stuffy and can't breathe. That's not all mint is good for though. In the garden, the plant attracts beneficial insects and repels pests, including fleas, mosquitoes and mice.

Cons of Growing Mint Plants in Gardens

Liz's viewpoint: Mint is one of those infamous plants, one that you hear horror stories about. When my mother bought her house 40 years ago, there was mint in the garden. And it's still there. This is because mint plants have strong, complex root systems that take hold easily and hold on tight. Even if you cut mint back drastically, it will still come back from small pieces of its roots.

Another problem with mint is that it spreads quite effectively. A mint plant will put out horizontal underground roots, called runners, which pop up out of the ground elsewhere and put up the shoots of a new plant. This means that even if you decide you're okay with having a permanent mint installation and you pick the perfect spot for it in your garden, it's not going to stay in that spot. Instead, it will put out runners and start taking over neighboring beds, choking out some plants and popping up unattractively among others.

The major cons of growing mint are that it spreads so well and it's hard to get rid of mint in the garden once the plant has taken hold. These problems can basically be gotten around if you limit your mint to container gardening.

As long as your mint plants aren't growing in the ground, they ought to be hassle free. If you really want to have a bed of mint in your garden, you should line it with a buried wall of metal or plastic sheeting to keep the runners from spreading.
Alternatively, you could plant your mint in a large container and place the entire thing in a hole in the garden bed. As long as the runners aren't able to travel, you should be fine.

Final Thoughts on Mint Advantages vs. its Issues

You shouldn't have any big issues with growing mint, as long as you do it carefully and responsibly. If you just plant it in your garden without any precautions, however, the downsides of mint are serious and numerous. You'll be digging up runners for a long time. Just like any other plant in the landscape, you should ensure it's in the right place. Growing mint responsibly is key to overcoming any future problems. Go ahead and take advantage of all the benefits of mint. Overall, the reasons to plant mint far outweigh the reasons not to.