Garden pests
My journey in the garden has been wonderful but not without its challenges. As a master gardener, I’ve faced the onslaught of many garden pests, each with its own unique way of testing my patience and skill. Yet, every encounter…
Mary Jane Duford
Mary Jane Duford is a passionate gardener and well-acclaimed authority in the world of horticulture. As a certified Master Gardener and Permaculture Garden Designer with over a decade of hands-on experience, she has honed her skills to cultivate a deeper understanding of the natural world around us. Beyond her gardening prowess, Mary Jane holds a distinct edge as a Professional Engineer, an expertise that often intertwines with her gardening methodologies, bringing a unique perspective to her readers.
She is the proud founder of the renowned gardening website, Home for the Harvest, a platform dedicated to helping fellow gardeners, both novice and experienced, find their green thumbs. Her gardening expertise hasn't gone unnoticed; she's been spotlighted as a go-to gardening expert by notable publications like Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Mother Earth News, Real Simple, and the National Garden Bureau.
Delving deep into specific fields of study within horticulture, Mary Jane has an extensive knowledge base on sustainable gardening practices (including permaculture), soil science, and selecting cultivars well-suited to home gardeners. Her passion isn't just limited to plants; she's a staunch advocate for holistic, eco-friendly gardening techniques that benefit both flora and fauna.
Currently residing in the picturesque Okanagan Valley, Mary Jane cherishes the time she spends with her family amidst nature, always exploring, learning, and growing both as a gardener and as an individual.
How to grow blueberries
Blueberries, often hailed as nature’s little blue gems, have become a staple in gardens worldwide. For those of you venturing into the world of blueberry cultivation, you’re in for a rewarding experience. My personal journey with these wonderful berries began…
How to grow apricots
Imagine basking in the warm summer sun, plucking juicy, ripe apricots straight from the tree in your own backyard. Not only is growing apricot trees a delightful experience, but the taste of homegrown apricots is unrivaled. We’ll walk you through…
How to grow roses
Growing roses offers the dual reward of vibrant blooms paired with lovely fragrance. But these plants are often intimidating to grow, especially for new gardeners. But while there are a few finicky types out there, most modern roses are very…
How to grow daffodils
Ah, daffodils! These cheerful flowers are the embodiment of spring’s arrival, brightening our gardens with their vibrant colors and elegant forms. Growing daffodils can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and this comprehensive guide on how to grow daffodils will provide…
How to grow apples
Wondering how to grow apples? While it can take a few years, caring for an apple tree is actually quite approachable (even for beginner gardeners). Let’s look at how you can add apples to your home fruit garden. How to…
How to grow clematis
Clematis is a gorgeous flowering vine for cottage gardens and welcoming landscapes. There is a huge range of varieties available, from single-flowered cultivars to double-petalled specialty types. These dainty plants are tolerant of shady conditions and can be low-maintenance once…
How to grow alliums
This comprehensive guide on how to grow alliums will walk you through the captivating world of alliums, from selecting the perfect variety to planting, caring, and showcasing these exquisite plants in your garden. How to grow alliums Alliums are a…
Pumpkin species
Pumpkin species belong to the genus Cucurbita. There are five species that are commonly referred to as pumpkins: Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita moschata, Cucurbita argyrosperma, and Cucurbita ficifolia. The word “pumpkin” is a vernacular term commonly referring to a…
Moranga pumpkin
Moranga pumpkins are best known for their pinky-orange peel color, but this cultivar is also a gourmet culinary variety. Their flattened shape with deep ribs down the side makes them perfect for fall decor that can transition into a cozy…
Marina di Chioggia pumpkin
The Marina di Chioggia pumpkin is an Italian heirloom variety known for its wrinkled dark green peel and richly flavored golden flesh. These pumpkins are prized for both fall decor and for culinary purposes such as baking, grilling, soups, and…
Queensland Blue pumpkin
The Queensland Blue pumpkin is a specialty pumpkin variety known for its striking slate-like blue-green peel color and its excellent culinary adaptability. Queensland Blue is a cultivar of Cucurbita maxima, and it is botanically related to both the Hubbard squash…