Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee

Using Apple Cider Vinegar as a Natural Rooting Hormone Propagating plant clippings is one thing most gardeners like doing because it saves us money and also keeps our plants true. What do I mean by keeping the plants true? When you propagate a plant, it means that the plant that you've taken the clipping from will stay true to the original plant. With stem cuttings, each new plant will duplicate its parent plant. So if you have a favorite plant, it's nice to take several clippings from it and propagate it.  My favorite part about propagating plants is that you can also do this with vegetable plants. Tomatoes and peppers are just a few of the plants in your vegetable garden that can be propagated from cuttings. Starting a vegetable plant from an existing stem is also much faster than growing it from seed.  Apple cider rooting hormone Three teaspoons of apple cider vinegar mixed into a gallon of water is all it takes to make enough rooting hormone to use for several plant stem c...

Growing cucumber plants upside down in hanging baskets Growing fruits and vegetables upside down in hanging baskets doesn't only save on ground space, but also can be more beneficial to your plants while they grow.  The object of planting fruits and vegetables to grow upside down is that it saves on growing space, it keeps plants free from pests, and it also keeps the fruits and veggies from rotting on the topsoil. But the other two main things that I enjoy the most about it are that there's no need for bending down and there's zero need for weeding. First, I planted my cucumber seeds in a container (as you can see from the photo below). I allowed for the plants to get big enough before transplanting them. Later, I decided to transfer a few of my cucumber plants to an old hanging wire basket to grow upside down. The baskets I used are wire baskets that came complete with the molded brown coconut fiber.  The steps for planting cucumber plants in hanging wire baskets upside d...

Growing pole beans from a bag of store-bought dried beans The fact is that I rarely ever buy my bean seeds in garden centers. Instead, I purchase dried beans from the grocery aisle. I cook some, plant some, and put some of them up for the next planting season.  One of my favorite dried beans to plant is pinto (also known as mottled beans, Frijoles). Back in November, I decided to plant my pintos from a bag of dried beans that I had previously opened. That was about nine weeks ago. My plants began blooming before the new year. Why do I choose to grow pintos over other bean varieties? Besides the fact that pinto beans make the best chili, chili beans, refried beans, etc.. Pintos are healthy and are extremely rich in fiber, an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. In fact, they are also high in antioxidants, which may also help lower risk of chronic diseases. Plus, they can naturally help reduce high cholesterol levels. Did you know that there's actually more than one v...

Transforming Old Shoes into Garden Treasures: A Creative Way to Keep Loved Ones Close Gardening is a beloved pastime that allows us to connect with nature, nurture life, and create beautiful outdoor spaces. But what if your garden could also be a place of heartfelt memory and personal storytelling? Instead of purchasing generic planters, why not get creative with items you already have around the house? Today, I want to share a special story about how an old pair of leather shoes became a cherished garden feature and how you can turn everyday items into meaningful, whimsical planters that keep loved ones close. Why Use Unusual Items as Garden Planters? Utilizing unexpected household items as planters not only adds character and charm to your garden but also breathes new life into objects that might otherwise be discarded. These unique planters serve as conversation starters, artistic expressions, and, most importantly, heartfelt tributes. Here are some compelling reasons to consider un...

Keeping an Indoor Garden Alive If you have an indoor garden, or want to have one, and need some gardening tips, such as how to keep vegetable plants alive indoors, when to water your plants, what to do if your plants are dying, then today's article is just for you!  Most of the edible plants that can be grown outside can also be grown inside in containers, hydroponic systems, and greenhouses and really do well under the right conditions. As we go into fall, your gardening doesn't have to end! If you're a beginner, there are several basic vegetable plants that are fairly easy to grow inside. These plants can be picked all throughout their growing season and, with some TLC, you can keep growing them all year long inside.  Micro-greens include a mix of greens and herbs, and can also include beets, radishes, kale, Swiss chard, basil, and arugula. Grow your micro greens in a large container and cut them as seedling plants.  To stay ahead of the game, sow new seeds every couple...

Transform Your Garden: Creating a Vibrant Wildlife Sanctuary with Native Plants Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by the gentle hum of pollinators, the cheerful croaking of frogs, and the curious flick of lizards darting across the landscape. Turning your outdoor space into a thriving wildlife garden not only enhances its beauty but also supports local ecosystems. The secret? Native plants. These plants are the cornerstone of a sustainable, vibrant habitat that attracts and sustains a variety of wildlife. Whether you have a sprawling yard or a modest garden, creating a wildlife-friendly space is both rewarding and impactful. Let’s explore how you can turn your garden into a lively sanctuary that champions native flora and fauna. Table of Contents Why Use Native Plants? Selecting the Right Native Plants Designing Your Wildlife Garden Benefits of a Wildlife Garden Maintenance Tips for a Thriving Habitat Getting Started: Simple Steps to Create Your Wildlife Garden Conc...

Sweet Potato Greens If you grow sweet potatoes, then you know how fast their vines can wildly take over your gardening space. But that could be considered a good thing, because not only are sweet potato tubers edible, but the entire plant is too! Plus, they can be fed to livestock such as chickens, hogs, cattle, goats, etc. It's important to note that the vine and leaves are toxic to cats and dogs when ingested. However, cats and dogs can eat sweet potato tubers once they've been cooked. Nutrients in Sweet Potato Leaves: The leaves of the sweet potato plant are loaded with nutrition; they contain niacin, vitamins B6, B2, B1, C, and E, pantothenic acid, beta-carotene, and biotin. The leaves also contain more riboflavin, vitamin B6, and vitamin C than the sweet potato itself. Preparing Sweet Potato Greens Sweet potato greens taste very similar to other popular greens that you may already eat, such as mustard, turnip, spinach, and dandelion greens. The smaller leaves are milder in...

Planting Sweet Potatoes We are nearing the end of May, the perfect time to plant sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas) are a root vegetable that's native to Central and South America. They thrive in the heat and humidity because they are tropical plants. In actuality, sweet potatoes are not part of the potato family. They are part of the morning glory. The part of a sweet potato plant that we harvest is a tuberous root. There are several different varieties of sweet potatoes that you can grow, but today I will be planting Centennial sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes don’t start from a seed like the majority of other vegetables do. Instead, they grow from what are referred to as “slips." Slips are the green shoots that sprout from the tops of a sweet potato.  Planting your sweet potatoes to grow slips You can place a sweet potato in a glass or jar of water or lay it directly in a container of dirt (as I am doing here today). I prefer starting my sweet potatoes directly i...

How to Grow Lentils in Hydroponic Trays: The Easy Way to Save Money and Boost Nutrition In today’s world, where food prices continue to soar, finding affordable and nutritious options is more critical than ever. Have you considered sprouting lentils indoors? Not only are they a powerhouse of health benefits, but they’re also remarkably simple and quick to grow right in your home. In fact, it only takes two to five days to grow sprouts indoors. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, growing lentils in hydroponic trays can revolutionize your approach to healthy eating and cost. Why Grow Lentils Indoors? Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Growing your own sprouted lentils indoors offers several advantages: Cost-Effective: Significantly reduce grocery bills by sprouting your own lentils. Fast Growth : Lentils sprout and are ready to eat within just a few days. Control Over Quality: Avoid pesticides and ensure fre...

Thrive Amidst Drought: The Ultimate Guide to Extreme Drought-Tolerant Fruits and Vegetables As climate change intensifies, many gardeners and farmers face the challenge of growing nutritious, flavorful produce in increasingly arid conditions. Fortunately, nature offers a resilient solution: a variety of extreme drought-tolerant vegetables and fruits that thrive with minimal water once established. Whether you're cultivating a backyard garden, managing a farm, or planning a xeriscape landscape, understanding these hardy plants can help you achieve bountiful harvests despite water scarcity. Table of Contents Introduction Drought-Tolerant Fruits Drought-Resistant Vegetables Tips for Growing Drought-Tolerant Crops Conclusion Introduction In regions prone to drought, selecting plants that can withstand dry conditions is crucial for sustainable gardening and farming. These resilient species are adapted to conserve water, develop deep root systems, and withstand high temperatures. Incorp...

Harnessing Nature’s Support: Growing Vining Squash Around Trees for a Bountiful Harvest Gardening is not only a rewarding hobby but also a wonderful way to connect with nature and produce fresh, healthy foods. One innovative and efficient technique gaining popularity among experienced gardeners is growing vining squash around existing trees. This method not only maximizes space but also keeps the squash plants off the ground, reducing disease risk and making harvesting easier. If you're looking to optimize your garden's productivity while maintaining an elegant, organized space, read on to discover how to effectively incorporate vining squash onto your trees. Table of Contents Benefits of Growing Vining Squash on Trees Preparing Your Trees and Garden Space Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Vining Squash on Trees Care and Maintenance Tips Addressing Common Challenges Final Thoughts Benefits of Growing Vining Squash on Trees Incorporating vining squash around your trees ...

Mastering Tomato Pruning: Boost Your Garden’s Productivity and Fruit Quality If you’ve ever wondered why some tomato plants flourish while others struggle, a key factor lies in proper pruning. Not only can pruning enhance air circulation and reduce disease risk, but it also helps your plants channel their energy into producing delicious, bountiful fruit. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, understanding the nuances of pruning different tomato varieties can transform your gardening success. Let’s delve into the art and science of tomato pruning, backed by fascinating historical tidbits and practical advice. A Brief History: Why Was the Tomato Classified as a Vegetable? Before jumping into pruning techniques, it’s interesting to note that in 1887, the U.S. government legally classified the tomato as a vegetable. This classification stemmed from tariff laws that taxed vegetables differently from fruits. Ironically, the tomato is botanically a fruit, a berry to be ...

Harness the Power of Nature: How to Make Fertilizer Tea for a Thriving Vegetable and Fruit Garden Imagine nourishing your garden with a completely natural, safe, and cost-effective fertilizer with absolutely no chemicals, no harsh additives, just the pure bounty of your own backyard. Making fertilizer tea using grass clippings is an eco-friendly way to give your vegetables and fruits that extra boost they need to flourish. This simple, all-natural method not only recycles waste but also provides your plants with essential nutrients quickly and effectively. Ready to transform your lawn waste into garden gold? Let’s dive into how to make fertilizer tea and reap the benefits of this sustainable gardening practice. Table of Contents Gather Materials Preparation Steps Brewing Process How to Use Your Fertilizer Tea Benefits of Fertilizer Tea Conclusion Gather Materials Before you start, gather these simple supplies: Fresh grass clippings: preferably from your lawn or garden A lar...

Growing Apple Trees from Store-Bought Apples: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cultivating Your Own Orchard There's something truly rewarding about growing your own apple trees from store-bought apples. Not only do you get to enjoy the journey from seed to tree, but you also contribute to sustainable gardening and potentially harvest fresh apples in the future. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of transforming a simple apple from your grocery store into a thriving young tree. Let’s dive into the details! Table of Contents Why Grow Your Own Apple Trees? Collecting and Preparing Apple Seeds The Stratification Process: Preparing Seeds for Germination Planting and Caring for Your Apple Seeds Final Tips & Troubleshooting Conclusion Why Grow Your Own Apple Trees? Growing apple trees from store-bought fruit offers a unique blend of satisfaction and sustainability. It allows you to: Experience the joy of ga...

Finding Your Veggie Garden Style: A Guide to Choosing What Works Best for You Starting a vegetable garden is an exciting journey—one filled with possibilities, growth, and the joy of harvesting your own produce. But with so many garden styles out there, how do you find the one that aligns perfectly with your space, lifestyle, and preferences? Whether you're inspired by the historic Victory Gardens or prefer modern methods like container gardening, this guide will help you explore various styles and choose the best fit for your unique environment. Table of Contents Understanding Different Garden Styles Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Garden Style Popular Vegetable Garden Styles Explained Tips for Finding Your Perfect Garden Style Conclusion: Creating a Garden That Grows with You Understanding Different Garden Styles There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to vegetable gardening. The style you choose should complement your available space, local climate, and per...

Growing Your Own: How I Started Sowing Seeds from Store-Bought Grape Tomatoes in My Kitchen There's something incredibly rewarding about harvesting your own homegrown vegetables, even when starting from a simple grocery store purchase. Recently, I embarked on a little gardening experiment right in my kitchen, turning store-bought grape tomatoes into thriving, indoor plants. The process was straightforward, fun, and surprisingly effective. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, I’d love to share my journey and tips on how you can grow your own tomato plants indoors from store-bought produce. Table of Contents Why Grow Your Own Tomatoes? Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Tomato Seeds Initial Germination and Sprouting Transplanting and Growing in Bigger Containers Tips for a Healthy Indoor Tomato Garden Conclusion Why Grow Your Own Tomatoes? Growing your own tomatoes offers numerous benefits: Enjoy fresh, organic produce right from your kitchen Save money...