Today, I thought I'd let you in on a little secret of mine ... maybe some of you already know about it.

It's called Spray-N-Grow Micronutrient Concentrate and what a difference it makes in the garden!

Actually, it wasn't until my mom pointed out earlier this season, that I even realized the difference. She had bought me some of this product about three years ago, when I was still just starting out with my gardening obsession. She had seen it on QVC and couldn't wait to tell me all about how it enhances flowers, vegetable plants and even shrubs. I said Ok, I'd try it, and proceeded that first summer to regularly apply it once a week.

Well, you can judge by the photos yourself -- the first one is WITH Spray-N-Grow and the second is from last summer, when I decided to switch to Miracle-Gro's new spray nozzle/bottle combination.



Check out the difference in the impatiens. I just figured it was because last year was so poor with rainfall, but Mom pointed out around August that maybe it was because I'd switched to something else. And Mother always knows best!

That was good enough for me! We went to qvc.com immediately and ordered a new batch of Spray-N-Grow! And I highly recommend it.

All you do is mix one ounce of solution in one gallon of warm water; let stand for 15 minutes or until the liquid turns a tannish/amber color, then spray plants. Make sure you mix only enough to apply to plants within 4-6 hours. It's organic and nontoxic.

I use a 32-oz. plastic spray bottle and add 2 tsps. of Spray-N-Grow. You can apply as little as once a month or once a week for biggest results (I apply once a week).

It cost about $25 for a 20-oz. bottle, $19.48 plus $5.22 shipping/handling (and don't forget tax for PA residents).


A couple of other little tips: For those of you, like me, who might have trouble with weeds/grass coming up through garden paths, brick patios or walkways -- instead of buying expensive weed killer, just use vinegar. Yes, plain old white vinegar. You can put it in a spray bottle (not the same one you use for Spray-N-Grow!) or just pour it from the bottle. In a day or two, the weeds/grass will dry up and die.

And for all the little critters who like to taste all our new plantings -- cayenne pepper! It works great and you can usually buy it at the dollar store. Just sprinkle on the plant or on the ground around it. Once they get a taste of that, they won't come back!


And, for those of you who wanted to look online for directions to the Oley Valley Perennials' Open House Sales, the correct address is 675 Covered Bridge Road, Oley, PA 19547. See you there!