image from freepik.com

News from Becky's Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa 

​Good day.  I am finally starting to write this.  Busy morning and early afternoon working with my planters to make sure I keep them going.  I ordered tags but for some reason some of them didn’t come.  I am thinking the plants are really new there isn’t any been developed yet.  We hand written them for you.  I will have a sheet explaining all the different kinds of tomatoes and peppers we have. But with the forecast of two might being cold and looks like cooler next week too.  Don’t be in a hurry to plant tomatoes and peppers.  Stay warm tonight and in the morning.  Stay safe
 
Australia family an friends Saturday May 1 will hav a high of 77F(25C) another awesome fall day for them.  Enjoy and stay safe.
 
We plant for you.  I have been working on the prices of the plants.  This is one of the hardest things for me to do.  What I am doing for you this season is I have lowered the prices from previous years.  I wanted to do this to help with your planting.  When you check out, I will try to show what you saved.  I hope this will be worth your time and savings on the plants.  I get smiles from the ones that have been here.  Also remember your punch card, I honor them from the past.  $7.50 off of every $100.00 you buy.  This has been a very positive thing to do for you the gardeners.  Just another way of helping you We plant for you.
 
I am going to go and do some more work.  I have plants to put on the wagons before I go home so Larry can put the wagons in the east greenhouse.  See how cold it gets. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from sugarcreekgardens.co 

I was surprised with this plant even though I ordered it, Petunia pink Lemonade.  Have any of you grown this?  

​​Good morning.  It is overcast and cool this morning.  High of 60F(16C) but will have a NW wind that will make it feel cooler.  Yes, I know you want it to be warmer, but this is how spring goes.  Enjoy this.  Frost could be Friday and Saturday morning.  Your perennials that are up will be ok.  I know the fruit trees are blossoming, might have to hope they are ok.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia friends and family for Thursday April 30 will have a high of 77F(25C) and looks like another awesome fall day for them.  They are talking about winter coming.  Now that doesn’t seem weird to us in April and May. Evelyn has lived there for over 50 years, so it is part of her life.  Stay safe and enjoy.
 
I ordered the flowers plant plugs in November.  I go through a lot of the grower’s catalog and spend time online to see what the flower does. But I am surprised at this one.  It says it is a petunia, it blooms like a petunia, but the leaves are thick, glossy and variegated.    This looks like a very fun plant.  Goes well in a basket and it does trail after it mounds. It can be planted in the ground.  I have found three descriptions of this petunia.  I think you would like it in your garden.  New to me.  How about you? 
Petunia – Pink Lemonade
With hot pink flowers and golden variegated foliage Pink Lemonade Petunia stands out in the mixed container. Showy enough to be planted alone for a gorgeous container but also does well mixed with annuals.
Petunias are long-blooming annuals that thrive in bright sunny locations. Popular trailing out of pots or used as colorful ground covers. A hummingbird favorite, expect to see these winged beauties visiting your containers and hanging baskets.
Plant Petunias in sunny spots in moist, well-drained soils. Lovers of fertilizer, plant with a slow-release fertilizer and use a liquid fertilizer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Petunias benefit from a mid-to-late summer haircut, cut back about halfway when plants begin to look tired. Usually in July-August.
Petunia Glamouflage™ ‘Pink Lemonade’
Brightly variegated petunia with vivid pink-fuchsia purple flowers
Gets covered with flowers all season long
Great cascading habit is perfect for hanging baskets
Heat Tolerant
Petunia ‘Glamouflage Pink Lemonade’
Glamouflage Series Petunia: Tolerates deer & drought. The Glamouflage series is more compact with green & white variegated foliage. Brightly variegated petunia with vivid pink-fuchsia purple flowers. Great for hanging baskets, beds, pots & as a ground cover. Attracts butterflies & hummingbirds. flowers appear in spring-summer. 6-10″ tall x 10-12″ wide. Full sun to part shade. Medium to high water
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from romancegardensgreenhouses.com 

​Good morning, I am confused.  Weather forecast for today was cloudy, and overcast but it far from that at 7:30 AM. OK I reread the forecast a mix of clouds and sun during the morning and give way to clouds this afternoon.  High today will be 58F(15C)  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Wed April 29 will have 70F(20C) with partly cloudy skies.  Sounds like another awesome fall day for them.  ENJOY and stay safe. 
 
As I am watering, I have a look at some of the new plants we are growing at the greenhouse. Have you heard of Eupatorium Elegant Feather  Use as the thriller in a container or use in the back of a garden as it gets tall but feathery.
Eupatorium capillifolium 'Elegant Feather' is a striking perennial plant known for its feathery foliage and graceful appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Characteristics
Appearance: This plant features tall, slender stems that can grow between 3 to 6 feet tall, adorned with needle-like leaves that sway gently in the wind, resembling feathers. The foliage is bright green and can create an attractive backdrop in garden settings.
Flowers: While the flowers are small and not particularly showy, they bloom in late summer, typically from September to November, producing greenish-white flower heads arranged in clusters.
Growing Conditions
Light: 'Elegant Feather' thrives in full sun to part shade, requiring about 4-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Soil: It prefers well-draining, organic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular watering is essential, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Hardiness: This plant is generally hardy in various climates but is often treated as an annual in cooler regions due to its potential invasiveness.
Care Tips
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. The plant is sensitive to drought, and wilting leaves can indicate a need for water.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Pruning: Prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to shape the plant for a tidy appearance.
Uses in Landscaping
Ornamental Value: 'Elegant Feather' is ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and as a focal point in mixed containers. Its height and graceful movement make it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to garden designs.
Container Gardening: This plant can also be grown in containers, where it can serve as a striking centerpiece or filler, adding height and texture to arrangements.
In summary, Eupatorium capillifolium 'Elegant Feather' is a versatile and visually appealing plant that can enhance any garden with its unique foliage and graceful presence. With proper care, it can thrive and provide beauty throughout the growing season
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

all images from Sale Botanic Gardens, Sale, Victoria, Australia 

​I am going to do this second post about Fall in the Sale Botanic Garden.  I have several pictures to include and this is the writing about them.  Hard to believe that it is fall for them when we are going into spring.
The first signs of the leaves turning to their autumn  🍁 colours!
I’m waiting for autumn 🍂 to kick in and find autumn 🍂 🍁 in the Maple, Elm and Gingko forests.
These two plants are members of the Plectranthus group of plants which usually flower in Autumn. It comes in a variety of white or shades of purple coloured flowers and has gorgeous green leaves.
It’s a hardy plant which benefits from a prune after flower and can grow in the shade. It is not frost tolerant  and makes a great specimen pot plant.
The maple tree leaves are changing colour with some in full colour while others are still developing.
We are half way through autumn with winter approaching.
Come and have a look at the garden as the leaves herald in the changing seasons.
Beautiful red and orange autumn leaves falling from the maple trees.
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from plantaddics.com 

I found this fun butterfly bush. " Buddleia Chrysalis Cranberry"
I 
​Just came in from the greenhouse.  It is raining lightly but has rained most of the night.  Nice rain and now the areas that weren’t turning green will happen.  April showers bring May flowers, and how we are all ready for those May flowers.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for their Tuesday April 28 will have 75F(24C) another nice fall day for them.  Enjoy and stay safe. 
 
I have put in my order for perennials that I hope are delivered this week.  Here is one that I found that looks like it would be fun to have.  It is a small butterfly bush that can grow in a container and still get those lovely blooms on it.  Butterfly bushes are great for the pollinators and all of them are zone 5 hardiness.  But even though it is said by USDA that we are zone 5.  These are hard to keep over through the winter.  But plant it as an annual because of the wonderful bloom and what it does for the bees. 
Buddleia Chrysalis™ Cranberry
The Chrysalis™ Cranberry Butterfly Bush is a compact shrub that stands out with its deep cranberry-magenta-colored, fragrant flowers. It reaches a height of 20 to 28 inches and has a spread similar to its height. This shrub is ideal for container gardens, mixed borders, and mass plantings. It is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. The plant is resistant to deer and downy mildew, making it a great choice for various garden settings.
The plant is known for its continuous blooming from spring through late summer and is a magnet for butterflies and beneficial pollinators. It is also suitable for smaller garden spaces, patios, and container gardens.
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from Piinterest.com 

Do you know the difference between organic and heirloom?  This might help.  

I am sitting in the greenhouse at my new office area I have set up  I will be working over here the months I am open.  I have watering to do.  I am also working on planting.  It is overcast so it is nice inside the greenhouse.  We can’t put up the shade cloth till we are all done planting to keep all the good coming into this miracle house.  High of 69F(20C).  Forecast has us for rain and thunderstorms tonight.  It also looks like rain all day tomorrow. Monday.  We will see how much we get.  Farmers are so ready to get back into planting.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Monday April 27th will have 71F(21C)  Our temperatures are similar for spring to their fall.  Enjoy, stay safe.
 
I have asked if I have organic plants.  It is hard to find them to be accurately organic.  Then I was asked what the difference between organic and heirloom. I found this article.    
Heirloom vs. Organic: by Levi Dawson
With so many labels and certifications, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two terms you’ll frequently encounter are “heirloom” and “organic.” While both suggest a commitment to quality and certain standards, they represent entirely different aspects of food production. Understanding the nuances between heirloom and organic is crucial for making informed decisions about what you eat
 Understanding Heirloom Varieties
Heirloom produce refers to specific varieties of plants that have been passed down through generations, often within families or communities. These are essentially the “original” versions of many fruits, vegetables, and grains we consume today. Unlike modern hybrid varieties, heirloom plants are open-pollinated, meaning that their seeds will produce plants with characteristics very similar to the parent plant. This consistency is a hallmark of heirloom status.
The Significance of Open Pollination
Open pollination is a crucial factor in defining heirloom status. When a plant is open-pollinated, it relies on natural methods like wind, insects, or animals to transfer pollen. This contrasts with hybrid varieties, which are created by deliberately cross-pollinating two different parent plants. The seeds from hybrid plants often don’t “breed true,” meaning the offspring will not consistently display the desired traits of the parent plant. Heirloom varieties, because they are open-pollinated, maintain their unique characteristics across generations.
The Value of Heirloom Seeds
Heirloom seeds hold significant value for several reasons. First, they preserve genetic diversity. Modern agriculture often relies on a limited number of commercially viable varieties, which can make crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Heirloom varieties offer a broader gene pool, providing resilience and potential resistance to environmental challenges. Second, many heirloom varieties are known for their exceptional flavor and unique characteristics. Because they haven’t been bred for mass production and long-distance shipping, heirloom plants are often selected for taste, texture, and appearance.
Common Characteristics of Heirloom Produce
Heirloom produce often stands out from its commercially grown counterparts. You might notice variations in color, shape, and size. An heirloom tomato, for example, may be lumpy, oddly shaped, and display a range of colors beyond the typical bright red. This diversity is a direct result of natural selection and adaptation over time. Flavor is a key differentiator. Heirloom varieties are often described as having a more intense, complex, and nuanced flavor profile compared to modern hybrids.
Core Principles of Organic Farming
Organic farming revolves around several key principles. Soil health is paramount, with practices like composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation used to improve soil fertility and structure. Pest and disease management relies on natural methods, such as beneficial insects, crop rotation, and organic-approved pesticides. The use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides is strictly prohibited. Organic farming also emphasizes biodiversity, encouraging a diverse ecosystem on the farm to support natural pest control and pollination.
The Organic Certification Process
To be certified organic, farmers must undergo a rigorous inspection and certification process. They must demonstrate that they are adhering to strict organic standards set by certifying agencies. These agencies are accredited by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) in the United States, or similar organizations in other countries. The certification process involves documenting farming practices, undergoing regular inspections, and maintaining detailed records. Only products that meet these standards can be labeled as “organic.”
Heirloom vs. Organic: Key Differences Summarized
The fundamental difference between heirloom and organic lies in what they describe. Heirloom refers to the specific variety or lineage of a plant, while organic refers to the farming practices used to grow it. An heirloom tomato, for example, is a specific variety of tomato that has been passed down through generations. Organic means it was grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or GMOs.
Contrasting Definitions and Focus
Heirloom: Focuses on the genetic lineage and history of a plant variety. It describes the seed itself.
Organic: Focuses on the farming methods used to grow the plant. It describes the production process.
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from garden.eco

Just a fun read about gardens. 

​Good morning.  Woke up to 44F(6C) high today of 60F(15C) We are having clear sky now, but the forecast calls for clouds to move in.  Almost perfect spring day.  You enjoy the day.  I am open if you need some plants, seeds, or vegetables to plant.  I will prepare for you that the perennials, trees, and shrubs will be here next week.  Probably more at the end of the week if you want those that is when they are coming.  I will be moving plants out today, doing some planting and of course the forever job of watering. Enjoy, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for their Sunday April 26th will have a high of 79F(25C) which for them will be almost perfect fall day.  Enjoy and stay safe. 
 
I found this article that is just fun to read about the style of gardens you like tells us what kind of gardener you are.  All of them are great garden ideas. 
 
Gardens with Style  By National Gardening Association Editors
 Choosing a garden style is a little like getting dressed. You might choose a "tie and jacket" look for your garden, using formal, symmetrical plantings, sheared hedges, and rows of flowering plants. Or you might be more of a "blue jeans" gardener, opting for an informal layout with rambling plantings. Or maybe you are somewhere in between.
Formal or Casual?
Just like your closet, which may contain formal wear and sweatshirts, and everything in between, you may choose a blend of styles for your gardens. For example, you might like a more formal look for the foundation plantings around your house, where shearing keeps hedges and shrubs inbounds, well-behaved perennials are carefully mulched, and annuals are planted in a symmetrical pattern.
Your island beds--those surrounded by a sea of lawn--might be a little less formal and consist of shrubs and perennials allowed to grow more naturally, with perhaps some annuals tucked into the spaces to add season-long color. Edging and mulching keep the bed looking tidy.
Naturalized Gardens
The gardens on the borders of your property might be on the wild side. Here, rambling shrubs, self-sowing wildflowers, and spreading ground covers might predominate. You may not bother with mulching or adding annuals, since this type of garden has a natural beauty all its own.
Generally speaking, the more formal the garden, the more regular maintenance it requires. (Note, however, that all perennial gardens will require some maintenance.)
Well-behaved perennials, such as liatris, won't flop over or sprawl. They work well in formal gardens.
Scale
Consider the size of your perennial bed in relation to its surroundings. For example, a tiny island bed in the middle of a huge lawn may look a little lonely and lost. If you are new to gardening, small plantings near the house are often a good place to begin. Design the beds so that you will be able to enlarge them in subsequent years, rather than overdoing it the first year.
Also consider the size of the plants in relation to the size of the bed. Overly large plants in a small bed can look awkward and out of proportion. On the other hand, a few well-chosen and well-placed large plants can liven up a bed. Similarly, small-leaved, tiny-flowered perennials can get lost in a huge bed. But these, too, have their place and can be used to unify a diverse planting.
Other Considerations
Shape. Generally, straight lines in a garden give it a more formal feel. You may have walked through formal gardens where each square or triangular bed contained a different herb, for example. If you want a formal garden, you might want to get out the tape measure and square the corners, or use a string and two stakes to create rows. Semicircular gardens can also appear quite formal, and the more symmetrical the plantings, the more formal the appearance.
One of the risks of a formal design is that if one plant in a row dies, or one plant in a symmetrical design falters, the whole design is thrown off. In an informal planting, the loss of a plant or two is usually less noticeable.
For a more informal look, avoid straight lines. Instead, create an outline using gentle curves. Following the contours of the land will help give it a natural feel. Try using a garden hose, or sprinkle limestone, to outline the shape of a new bed. Even if you are creating a new island bed in a flat lawn, where there are no slopes to define the area, you can create an informal, curved outline. If you are hesitant to dig up an irregular, amoeba-shaped hole in your lawn, start with a crescent- or kidney-shaped bed.
Vantage Point. Think about where you'll be spending your time observing your garden. Will you have a bench, or even a breakfast table, in its midst? Will your hammock be next to the garden? Or will you be enjoying your garden primarily from a distance?
We mentioned earlier that bright colors are often best for gardens that will be viewed from afar. Blues, violets, and pastel colors often get lost at a distance, especially in bright sunshine. Save these colors for beds you'll enjoy from a closer vantage point.
 Bold textures also hold up better for distant viewing. Plants with large flowers (or lots of small flowers) and heavy foliage will draw attention, while dainty plants with tiny flowers and delicate foliage may get overlooked. Save these for places where they'll get the attention they deserve.
Taken from https://garden.org/learn/articles/view/1994/Perennial-Garden-Style
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from balconygardenweb

Have you used garden bags?  Let us know how they work.  I had them last year and worked well.  

​I am back to writing in the morning.  I think my gardeners like to look at the morning posting on Facebook.  I have started to move office things to the greenhouse.  Computer, printer, fiiles to hold bookwork  I have the credit card machine here, and the cash register will be today.  I have to now move from the planting organization stage to the retail garden center stage.  I am here now every day.  Monday – Saturday 9-6, Sunday 1-6. 
Trees, shrubs, and perennials will be delivered sometime next week.  We have been growing for you since Feb. so there are plants in the greenhouse if you are ready to plant.  We have them in all stages, ready to plant in your garden, some are still growing, and we are still planting. All stages of growing Is going on here.
History of this weekend.  For many years, this was open House weekend.  I would cook lunch for each day.  Friends would bring in bars.  Friends would help serve the meal and I would work with the gardeners.  During the Covid, I stopped having an Open House with a meal for 3 days.  Now I just don’t have the help to pull it off, and maybe the energy as I cooked all the food.  Served between 300 to 500 people.  Now when you come each will get a gift of some plants for thanking you for stopping at Becky’s Greenhouse.  I know some of you will remember those annual open houses. Larry misses them because he had a great time visiting with all.  We would have all the modes of weather, nice spring weather, warm summer weather, cold winter weather with snow. Now we will just get ready to be open. 
Our weather will be seasonable cooler than earlier this week.  High of 63F(16C) but with a clear blue sky.  Enjoy, stay warm, and with the rain we have farmers will have to wait a little bit for it to dry out.  For the farmers, stay safe. 
 
Australia family and friends for Saturday April 25th will have a high of 76F24C) slight wind, so it seems for their Saturday a perfect fall day.  Stay cool, stay safe and enjoy.
 
I used this last year and had good luck with onions and leafy vegetables.  Tomatoes were different as didn’t get many off the plants.  But I wondered if I watered enough.  Article said you have to water a lot more.  Also, the article said 2 to 3 plants per bag.  I would not suggest that for tomatoes.  One plant is what would be enough.  How about you have used them?  Let us know how it went.
Grow Bags for Vegetables: Benefits, Best Plants, and Air Pruning Tips  Written By:
Robin Sweetser If, like me, you sometimes rely on containers to grow your vegetables, consider trying a grow bag this season. Grow bags offer several advantages over traditional plastic pots or terra cotta containers. One of the most fascinating benefits is air pruning, which promotes healthy root growth and stronger plants. In this guide, we’ll cover why and when to use grow bags, the best plants to grow in them, and tips for choosing the right bag.
What Are Grow Bags and Why Use Them?
Grow bags aren’t a modern invention. In ancient times, people used woven baskets and bags to grow plants. Ancient Egyptians created plant baskets, and the Greeks placed woven containers on rooftop gardens for easy mobility. Many British gardeners have long relied on grow bags as an alternative to planting directly in greenhouse soil.
Today, grow bags are still ideal for greenhouse gardening, but they’ve gained popularity as a convenient container for patios, balconies, and rooftop gardens. Lightweight and portable, they’re perfect for spaces where traditional pots may be cumbersome or too heavy.
Advantages of Grow Bags Over Traditional Pots
Lightweight and Portable
Unlike heavy ceramic or plastic pots, fabric grow bags weigh almost nothing when empty. This makes it easy to move plants around to catch sunlight, protect them from harsh weather, or simply rearrange your garden setup. The only weight you need to manage is the soil itself.
Better Drainage and Air Pruning
Grow bags are breathable, allowing air to circulate through the soil and prevent soggy roots. When a root reaches the side of a fabric bag, it comes in contact with drier soil and air. This stops the root from circling and encourages air pruning, which stimulates new root growth. More root tips mean the plant absorbs water and nutrients more efficiently, promoting healthier, stronger growth above ground.
Cooler Soil in Summer
Plastic pots can heat up in the sun, stressing plant roots. Grow bags’ breathable fabric allows heat to escape while providing insulation in cooler weather. Soil stays warmer in early spring and cooler during hot summer days, protecting your plants’ delicate roots.
Best Vegetables and Herbs for Grow Bags
Grow bags are ideal for vegetables that don’t have very deep roots. My favorites include:
Tomatoes
Sweet peppers & chili peppers
Zucchini and summer squash
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Potatoes
Salad greens (lettuce, endive, arugula)
Basil and other herbs
Planting Tips:
Use 2–3 plants per bag for most vegetables.
For salad greens, sow seeds in rows across the width of the bag.
Choosing the Right Grow Bag
Not all grow bags are created equal. Some inexpensive options are essentially black plastic bags, which trap heat and moisture and do not support air pruning. Look for a polypropylene felt-like fabric, which is breathable, BPA-free, and food-safe.
Tips for Growing Vegetables in Grow Bags
Soil: Keep compost loose—shake and knead it gently like a pillow.
Root Depth: Ensure the top of each root ball is just below the top of the bag.
Watering: Grow bags drain fast, so water more frequently than in plastic containers. Indoors, use a large saucer to catch excess water.
Support: Taller plants like tomatoes need stakes or canes tied to a frame.
Fertilizer: Feed flowering vegetables (aubergines, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes) with a high-potash fertilizer when flowers appear.
Longevity: High-quality grow bags can last 3–4 years. Store them folded and dry in winter.
Bonus Tip: Fabric grow bags can be repurposed for compost, mulch, or harvest baskets when not in use.
DIY Grow Bags
For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, you can make your own grow bags from heavy-duty landscape fabric. Use nylon thread instead of cotton to prevent deterioration, and ensure the bags are durable enough to hold soil and plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are grow bags and how do they work?
Grow bags are breathable containers for vegetables and herbs that promote air pruning, improve drainage, and prevent root circling.
What vegetables grow best in grow bags?
Best choices include tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, eggplant, potatoes, salad greens, and herbs like basil.
Are fabric grow bags better than plastic pots?
Yes! They allow airflow, prevent root binding, regulate soil temperature, and are lightweight and portable.
How often should I water plants in a grow bag?
Because grow bags drain quickly, check soil daily and water more frequently than in traditional pots.
How long do grow bags last?
High-quality fabric bags can last 3–4 years with proper care and storage.
Can I make my own grow bags at home?
Yes! Use heavy-duty, durable landscape fabric and nylon thread to create custom containers for your garden.
Whether you’re growing on a balcony, patio, rooftop, or in a greenhouse, grow bags are a versatile, affordable, and effective solution for container gardening. Lightweight, breathable, and supportive of healthy roots, they allow you to grow flavorful vegetables that thrive all season long. Try them this year and see the difference for yourself!
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/grow-bags-vegetables
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from orgaicgardenco.com.au

Plant onions with strawberries to help with insects. What do you think?  Other plants to plant onions with. 
​Good afternoon.  I am changing the time I write this because in the morning I am getting ready to be in the greenhouse.  So here I am at 1:00 PM.  Girls are planting, I will water and then plant.  Moving plants out so to make room to do more planting.  What a change in weather.  It is cloudy, it is windy and it Is a cool along side being humid.  Severe storms for tonight.  It is to be windy so the wagon will go into the east greenhouse.  I have a story to tell you about when I say directions.  I didn’t grow up with my dad saying north, south, east or west.  But I married a guy, that is how he would tell me where things were, how to get somewhere would use directions like north, south, east and west.   I use directions all the time in placing the plants, and sometimes the help looks at me as where is north? We grow in the west greenhouse and use the east greenhouse as storage.  Just some facts about Larry and I.  high today is 71F(21C) looking at the weather map around 6:00 it will be raining.  Stay dry, stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends will have 74F(22C) with partly cloudy skies.  It is Friday April 24th for them.  Friends from there have said it has been very lovely fall weather.  Stay cool, stay safe and enjoy.
 
Plant onions by strawberries are what I learned from this article.  See what else you can use onions to plant with.
Companion planting with onions Written By:  Lauren Landers
Onions are powerful companion plants that help repel pests and support healthier garden growth. But they also perform best when paired with the right neighbors. Here’s what to plant with onions to improve bulb size, reduce weeds, and make the most of your garden space.
Companion planting with onions helps repel pests like carrot flies, aphids, and cabbage worms thanks to their strong scent.
Onions grow well with crops like carrots, beets, cabbage, lettuce, and strawberries, improving plant health and reducing pest pressure.
Many onion companions also help suppress weeds, improve soil structure, and make efficient use of garden space.
I’ve been using onions in my garden for years and have found they’re some of the most reliable companion plants for a wide range of vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Why Companion Planting Works for Onions
Onions and other alliums release a strong, sulfur-like scent that helps deter pests like carrot flies, cabbage loopers, and Japanese beetles. Planting onions around the edges of garden beds may also discourage larger pests, such as deer and rabbits.
While onions are known for protecting nearby plants, they also grow best with the right companions. The best onion companion plants help suppress weeds, improve soil structure, and support the development of larger, healthier bulbs.
How Companion Planting Helps Prevent Onion Pests
flea beetle on a leaf, a common garden pest that companion planting can help deter
Companion planting works by disrupting pest behavior and attracting beneficial insects. Strong-smelling plants like onions can mask the scent of nearby crops, making it harder for pests to locate them, while flowers and herbs bring in predators that help keep pest populations in check.
Onion companion planting infographic
Companion Plants for Onions
Onions love sun, rich soil, and regular watering, so any companion plant you choose to grow with them should have similar care needs. Most gardeners keep onions in veggie beds, but they can also benefit ornamental plants. If you want to enjoy all the benefits that companion planting with onions brings, here are some of the best companion plants to grow with onions and why these plant pairings work!
Some of the best companion plants for onions include the following:
Brassicas
onions growing alongside cabbage in a garden bed as companion plants
Cabbage loopers are the biggest nemeses for the Brassica plants in my garden, but they’ve been much less problematic since I’ve started interplanting Brassicas with onions.
I’ve tried this with kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, collard greens, and broccoli, and I definitely see fewer loopers on my veggies. I still use row covers with brassicas, though, and I’ll sometimes spot-treat plants with BT thuricide if a few cabbage loopers sneak in.
Nightshades
onions growing with tomatoes in a container garden as companion plants
Onions and tomatoes make good companions—helping deter pests while making efficient use of space. Credit: Teresa Melcer
I’ve lost more than a few bell peppers to deer over the years, but I haven’t lost any since I began growing bell peppers with onions. Onions can also help repel a variety of pests from other nightshade plants, including tomatoes, eggplants, and tomatillos.
Plus, if you grow these plants together, you’ll conveniently have most of the ingredients you need for homemade salsa.
Savory
bee visiting flowering savory plant in a garden attracting beneficial insects
Summer and winter savory don’t just pair well with onions in the kitchen. These herbs also grow well with onions in the garden and can actually enhance the growth and flavor of neighboring onion plants.
On top of that, savory and onions both repel the pests that are attracted to each other!
Roses
Growing onions with roses can seem a little odd at first, but onions and other alliums do wonders for keeping Japanese beetles and other rose pests in check.
If you want to try this hack, plant onions in a ring around your roses or grow them along the borders of your rose beds. Just keep in mind that you may not want to harvest onions for eating if you apply fungicides and other chemical treatments to your rose plants.
Strawberries
onions growing alongside strawberries in a garden bed as companion plants
Onions and strawberries planted together—onions help deter pests while strawberries act as a living ground cover.
Strawberries are one of the most popular fruiting plants for home growing, but they are prone to pests. Keeping onions near your strawberry plants should reduce pest activity and help you harvest blemish-free berries.
In return, sprawling strawberries will serve as a living mulch, keeping weeds from encroaching on your onions.
More Plants That Grow Well with Onions
beets growing alongside green onions in a raised garden bed as companion plants
Beets and onions are a classic companion planting combination that helps deter pests and maximize space. Credit: MN Studio
Beets can be plagued by deer, rabbits, and flea beetles, but growing beets and onions together should help protect beet greens from these garden marauders. Not to mention, beets and onions have similar care needs, and growing them together will simplify garden care.
Dill
Dill and onions are both essential ingredients for homemade pickles, and growing these plants together reduces the ingredients you’ll need to buy for home canning.
If you allow dill plants to flower, they’ll also attract beneficial insects to your garden that feed on onion pests!
Chamomile attracts beneficial insects and is often planted near onions to support plant health and pest control. Credit: Masayuki
Chamomile is often grown as an ornamental or as an herb for homemade teas. But this daisy-like flower makes an exceptional companion plant for many veggies and can enhance the flavor and growth of onions planted nearby.
Chamomile flowers are also highly attractive to beneficial bugs like hoverflies that feed on insect pests.
Carrots and Parsnips
carrots and onions growing together in rows in a garden as companion plants
Carrots and onions planted together—each helps deter the other’s pests, making this one of the most effective companion pairings. Credit: Olena Hruzyna
Similar to beets, carrots and parsnips are root veggies that have similar growing requirements to onions. But that’s not the only reason to keep these plants together.
The strong scent of onions helps repel carrot flies that feed on carrot roots, while harvesting carrots aerates the soil and can make it easier for onion bulbs to fill out—just as long as you don’t disturb your onions when harvesting! Want to learn more? See our companion plants for carrots guide.
Marigolds planted with onions help deter pests while attracting beneficial insects.
Although onions are relatively hardy crops, they can sometimes be targeted by pests like nematodes. Luckily for home gardeners, marigolds help to naturally reduce nematode pests and can protect onion crops from significant damage.
For best results, plant marigolds in your garden at least 2 months before growing onions, or grow marigolds in the fall and till them into the soil before planting onion sets in spring.
What Not to Grow with Onions
Onions grow well with many plants, but there are a few exceptions. Avoid planting onions near the following crops to prevent reduced growth or competition for nutrients.
Plants to avoid planting near onions
Plant  Why Avoid?
Beans and Peas (Legumes)          Onions can interfere with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in legumes, which may reduce growth for both plants.
Sage   Sage prefers drier soil conditions and can stunt onion growth when planted too closely.
Asparagus     Both onions and asparagus are heavy feeders and may compete for nutrients. Harvesting onions can also disturb asparagus crowns.
What should you not plant near onions?
Onions don’t grow well with beans and peas, nor do they grow well with some Mediterranean herbs like sage, which prefer dry soil.
What is a good companion plant for onions?
Onions are great companion plants for many crops, including strawberries, roses, brassicas, and carrots.
What do onions repel?
Thanks to their strong, sulfur-like scent, onions help repel pests such as deer, rabbits, Japanese beetles, flea beetles, carrot flies, and cabbage loopers.
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/companion-plants-for-onions
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from urbanorgaicyield.com   Interspeific Geranium

image from hortipak.co.uk Image of zonal geranium 

​Good morning I am later in writing and posting as I have moved the computer to the greenhouse asI want to be here by 9:00 AM.  It is warm out, but different from yesterday because we have clouds and a breeze out of the south.  Outside temperature is 73F(22C) .  Inside greenhouse it is 80F which isn’t too bad with fans moving the air.  Again the plants are happy and that is what counts.  Hope we keep the clouds.  Enjoy the day, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends are telling me they are having 20C which 68F.  Enjoyable fall days for them.  Iowa family is still there visiting so they are having good weather.  Their high will be the same as ours 74F(22C) Opposite seasons but same temperatures.  I find that amazing.  Enjoy the day, stay safe. 
 
I was asked by a gardener what interspecific geranium is.  I notice some of the geranium’s tags had that on the description and also on some just zonal geranium.  I found articles to help explain both. 
The interspecific geranium like the famous Calliope geraniums and Champion geraniums, combines the qualities of its two parents, the ivy-leaved geranium or pelargonium and the zonal type. It is a bushy plant, 35 to 50 cm (14 to 20in) high, robust, vigorous, and with excellent resistance to diseases, bad weather, and drought, flowering from May until the first frost. The interspecific geranium forms sturdy stems like zonal geraniums or pelargoniums, but flexible like ivy-leaved ones. Very floriferous and with rapid growth, it offers vigorous vegetation and has peltate, circular leaves, often spotted with brown, slightly fleshy, and aromatic. The latest generation of interspecific geraniums, like the 'TwoinOne', offer single to double flowers in a wide range of colours, from white to red, purple, and pink. They can be planted in pots or in the ground, in spring after the last frost. They are not hardy and should be overwintered frost-free.
 
Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant blooms, distinctive zoned foliage, and versatility in gardens and containers.  Zonal geraniums are upright, bushy plants with rounded, mid-green leaves that often feature a darker circular band, giving them their “zonal” name. They produce clusters of flowers in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, white, orange, lavender, coral, burgundy, and salmon. These plants can grow up to 1 meter tall, or even 3 meters against a wall under glass. They are native to South Africa and are technically Pelargoniums, not true geraniums.
Just for fun to let you know the difference.  Knowledge is good and it has power. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse