Companion planting helps most through pest confusion, trap cropping, and pollinator habitat. Reliable pairs: basil with tomatoes, carrots with onions, marigolds and nasturtiums as trap crops, plus a bloom border. Pet-safe notes included.
Category: vegetables-herbs
vegetables-herbs
Oct 31, 2026
When to Harvest Basil So the Plant Keeps Producing
Start harvesting basil at 6 to 8 inches tall and pinch the top tip above a leaf pair every 7 to 10 days. Removing flower buds keeps the leaves sweet and the plant branching for months instead of bolting.
vegetables-herbs
Oct 31, 2026
Raised Bed Soil: What to Fill It With and What to Avoid
Fill a raised bed with about one-third screened topsoil, one-third finished compost, and one-third aeration. Avoid fresh manure, uncomposted material, and cocoa hulls if you have dogs.
vegetables-herbs
Oct 27, 2026
Container Herb Garden: 6 Easy Herbs for a Sunny Windowsill
Grow a windowsill herb garden in containers with basil, mint, parsley, chives, thyme and oregano — give 6+ hours of sun, well-draining potting mix, and harvest often by snipping the tips.
vegetables-herbs
Oct 27, 2026
How to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors (and When to Harden Them Off)
Sow tomato seeds indoors about six weeks before your last spring frost in a sterile seed-starting mix, give 14-16 hours of bright light, then harden seedlings off over 7-10 days before planting out.