Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been gardening for years, there are plenty of gardening tips and tricks you can learn. If you’re looking for ways to keep your plants healthy, a little planning goes a long way. Read on to find out more about some of the best practices for keeping your garden thriving.
Ancient Egyptians
Gardening was a common activity in the ancient world. Those who lived near the Nile River enjoyed a rich and fertile soil for agriculture. Many of the crops they grew were familiar to modern gardens, like grapes, olive trees, figs and date palms.
Ancient Egyptians also used flowers as offerings to their gods. These offerings could include flowers, wreaths, perfumes, candles, and more. They were often displayed in tombs.
The gardens of ancient Egypt began as basic subsistence gardens. Fruits, vegetables, and spices were grown. Vegetables, however, required more care than grain.
Temples and private residences had their own gardens. Temples and palaces were surrounded by high walls. Often, temple gardens were large and contained rows of trees with irrigation channels. Symbolic plants and animals were kept in the garden.
There are many records about the gardens of early Egyptians. They are usually described through literature and the tombs. Some tombs even depict the gardens themselves.
Ancient Egyptian tomb paintings
During the period of Egyptian civilization, many people used gardens. They grew fruits, flowers, herbs and other useful plants. Many of these plants were cultivated for perfume, garlands, and bouquets.
One of the most common fruit trees was the date palm. The pomegranate tree was also popular. In addition, the persea tree was considered sacred. This tree had a rich aroma and was used in temple gardens.
Another common type of garden was the funerary garden. These gardens were located outside tombs. These gardens had a grid-like plot and were usually surrounded by trees. There were also ornamental basins in contemporary gardens.
In addition, the tomb of Nebamun contains a representation of the garden. It is one of the most famous works of Ancient Egyptian art.
Nebamun was a wealthy Egyptian official who had a garden inside his tomb. His tomb was found in the western side of the Theban Necropolis. He was associated with Thutmose IV.
Heirloom plants
There is a large variety of plants and flowers that you can grow in your garden. Many of these varieties come from heirlooms. They are open-pollinated, which means they have a good chance of being pollinated by insects, birds, or even humans.
In addition, heirlooms have unique taste and color. Their seeds can be saved and replanted in subsequent years, providing you with a long-lasting supply of fruits and vegetables.
Some heirlooms were developed in the early days of commercial breeding. Others were developed at universities. Regardless of their origin, heirlooms have been around for generations and have a reputation for good taste.
While most heirlooms have been passed down through families, they can be purchased from seed exchanges, local farmers, and botanical gardens. You can also buy heirloom seeds online.
Aside from the fact that heirlooms are fun to grow, they are also highly nutritious. Their seeds are not genetically modified, which is a plus for home gardeners.
Pesticide-free gardening
Pesticide-free gardening can be an attractive and ecologically sound way to grow your vegetables. It’s important to choose the right plants for your landscape.
Pesticides are harmful to animals, humans, and the environment. They can kill or injure beneficial pollinators, insects, and plants.
Many people use pesticides to prevent or control unwanted pests. But these chemicals can be harmful, and even invasive. You can do better.
Natural and organic methods are more appropriate for pesticide-free gardening. To start, you can protect your plants from the ravages of pests by adding organic mulch and soil amendments.
Organic materials will support the soil and the microbes that keep it healthy. This will also reduce your need for chemical fertilizers.
In addition, predators like dragonflies, ground beetles, lacewings, and praying mantises can destroy garden pests. For example, beetles eat plant-killing aphids, while lizards gnaw on slugs.
Predators can eliminate some pests, but they aren’t perfect. Some bugs prey on other bad bugs, while others eat insects that may not be harmful.
