illustration
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Hybrid and Heirloom: A Botanical Tapestry
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Hybrid and Heirloom- Hybrid plants are developed through controlled pollination for enhanced traits, while heirloom plants carry a rich history and unique flavors passed down through generations. Hybrids offer practical benefits such as disease resistance and higher yields, but may have different nutritional values. Heirlooms, open-pollinated and cherished for taste,…
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Understanding Diurnal Variation in Your Garden
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Diurnal Variation- The diurnal temperature range can greatly impact your garden, affecting plants at every stage of growth. Extreme temperature fluctuations can lead to stress, water loss, slowed growth, and disrupted photosynthesis. Mitigate this by germinating and growing young plants indoors until temperatures stabilize. Each plant has unique requirements, so…
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Adventures of Bodhi and the Berries
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Bodhi and the Berries- In a quaint village, young Bodhi lived with his mee-maw, surrounded by blooming flowers and ripe blackberry bushes. Despite strict rules, Bodhi couldn’t resist picking the forbidden fruit. Caught by his mee-maw, he learned to make jam, creating magical memories with love and mischief. The cozy…
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An Easter Lily’s Tale
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Whispered Secrets- In a serene garden called the Veggie-Bed, an Easter lily bloomed, symbolizing hope and renewal. Poppa Tom, the caretaker, shared its secrets with a weary passerby, offering solace and inspiration. The lily’s fragrance lifted spirits, embodying a promise of brighter days. Its timeless elegance whispered of renewal and…
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Maximizing Daylight: DST Effects on Gardeners and Green Spaces
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -DST Effects on Gardeners and Green Spaces- Daylight Saving Time (DST) involves setting clocks forward one hour in summer to maximize natural daylight. While it affects 9-to-5 gardeners’ schedules, it offers an extra hour of morning light and longer evening daylight. Embrace the shift in clocks and make the most…
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Sun-Kissed Rows: Cultivating Life at the Veggie-Bed
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Cultivating Life at the Veggie-Bed- In the Veggie-Bed, careful attention is given to aligning rows from north to south, ensuring consistent sunlight exposure and airflow. This approach supports a diverse family of plants, fostering growth and warding off diseases. The creators honor the sun, wind, and earth, maintaining a leafy…
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A Cosmic Connection
Image: AI-Generated; Prompt/edited: Tom Myrick -Leap Years and Vegetable Gardening- Leap years, occurring every four years, add an extra day to our calendars—leap day, February 29th. They help maintain the alignment of seasons, ensuring accurate planting and harvesting times for vegetable gardening. Without them, seasonal cues would drift, impacting crop planning and frost dates. The…






