Connect with us

Business

Down to Earth Living Garden Center in Rockland County Celebrates 52 Years Of Service

Published

6 months ago

on

As summer draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your garden for a successful spring bloom. Here are some essential steps to ensure your garden thrives next year.

1. Clean Up and Clear Out
Start by removing any dead or diseased plants from your garden. This helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden. Be sure to also clear away spent annuals and vegetables, and add them to your compost pile if they are disease-free. This cleanup creates a clean slate for new growth come spring.
2. Soil Preparation
Testing your soil is a crucial step in garden preparation. Soil tests provide insight into pH levels and nutrient content, allowing you to make necessary amendments. The soil in this area tends to be acidic so this is a good time to add granular lime to give your plants a head start in the spring. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can also enrich your soil with essential nutrients. This organic matter improves soil structure, promotes healthy root development, and enhances water retention.
3. Plant Cover Crops
Consider planting cover crops, also known as green manure. Cover crops like clover, rye, and vetch help improve soil health by preventing erosion, enhancing soil structure, and adding organic matter when they decompose. They also help suppress weeds and can be turned into the soil in early spring as a natural fertilizer.
4. Mulching
Applying mulch in the fall helps protect your soil from winter erosion and retains moisture. Organic mulches such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves add nutrients to the soil as they break down. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch also helps regulate soil temperature, creating a more stable environment for your plants.
5. Pruning
Late summer and early fall are good times to prune perennials, shrubs, and trees. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape your plants to promote healthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stimulate new growth that may not harden off before winter.

6. Plant Spring Bulbs
Now is the time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Planting bulbs in the fall allows them to establish roots and ensures a beautiful display of flowers in the spring. Be sure to plant them at the correct depth and provide a layer of mulch for insulation.
7. Plan for Next Year
Take notes on what worked well in your garden this year and what didn’t. Sketch out your garden plan for next spring, considering crop rotation and companion planting to maximize your garden’s health and productivity. By following these steps, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant and productive garden next spring.

The center is open 9 – 5 every day and is located near Bergen County at 1040 Route 45. Phone number is 845-354-8500. Website is www.dteliving.com for more information.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Business

Down To Earth Living The Many Benefits of Indoor Plants for Health, Productivity, and Aesthetics

Published

2 weeks ago

on

March 14, 2025

By

Indoor plants have become a popular addition to both homes and workplaces, offering much more than just aesthetic value. They provide numerous benefits, ranging from improving air quality to enhancing mental health. Here’s an overview of the positive effects indoor plants can have, backed by scientific research:

  1. Better Air Quality: Indoor plants are well-known for their ability to purify the air. Through photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which refreshes indoor spaces. Research from NASA’s Clean Air Study highlights how plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants can remove harmful pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, which are commonly found in household items like furniture and cleaning products.

  2. Improved Mental Health and Productivity: Indoor plants positively influence mental well-being. A study in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology showed that interacting with plants, like watering or trimming them, can lower stress and promote relaxation. Even in indoor environments, this connection with nature helps create a calming atmosphere that boosts overall well-being. In work settings, plants are linked to a 15% increase in employee productivity, as found in a study published in Environmental Psychology. The presence of greenery helps with focus and job satisfaction, making workplaces more stimulating and motivating.

  3. Aesthetic Value: Indoor plants can transform a room, making it more lively and inviting. They soften architectural features, fill empty spaces, and add a natural element to modern interior designs. A survey by the National Gardening Association revealed that many people choose to incorporate indoor plants into their homes or offices mainly for their aesthetic appeal.

  4. Health Benefits: Indoor plants can also support physical health by helping maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing issues caused by dry air, such as dry skin, sore throats, and coughs. Additionally, plants can absorb sound and reduce noise, making them especially beneficial in busy homes or open office spaces.

  5. Low Maintenance and Easy Accessibility: Many indoor plants are low-maintenance, making them ideal for people with little gardening experience. Plants like pothos, zz plants, and succulents are easy to care for and thrive in various lighting conditions, allowing anyone to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without needing expert knowledge.

Incorporating indoor plants into your space is a simple yet effective way to enhance both the environment and your well-being. Not only do they purify the air and promote mental and physical health, but they also make your space more aesthetically pleasing. As research continues to confirm their many advantages, it’s clear that indoor plants are a worthwhile addition to any home or office.

Down to Earth, now celebrating its 53rd year, offers a wide range of indoor plants and is expanding its offerings for 2025. Their indoor plant showroom will open on March 13th for the spring season. Located in Pomona, Rockland County, the Down to Earth Living Garden Center spans 12.5 acres and offers a variety of perennials, flowers, shrubs, and trees, with new arrivals every week. Their 10,000-square-foot showroom also features a diverse selection of furniture made from teak, aluminum, and all-weather materials. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be found at 1040 Route 45, Pomona. For more information, visit www.dteliving.com or call 845-354-8500.

Sources:

  • Wolverton, B. C., NASA Clean Air Study.
  • Journal of Physiological Anthropology, Effects of Indoor Plants on Stress Levels.
  • Environmental Psychology, Office Plants and Productivity.
  • Royal Horticultural Society, Benefits of Indoor Plants.
  • National Gardening Association, Indoor Plant Trends Survey.

Continue Reading

Business

Real Estate Agent Joseph Chabot Joins Tuxedo Hudson Realty

Published

1 month ago

on

February 18, 2025

By

Joseph Chabot is an experienced and knowledgeable real estate salesperson who is committed to giving back to the community through public service. Before Transitioning to a career in real estate, Joseph has previously served as a consultant to various business startups, funds and nonprofit entities (NYS Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery, Coleman Hudson Group, Singita Capital Management and Hudson Valley Medical Consultants).

Tuxedo Hudson Realty, founded in 2015 by 1stdibs.com and Valley Rock Inn founder Michael Bruno, has recently transitioned leadership to a third-generation realtor with over 13 years of experience with the firm. This ensures the continuation of the brand’s commitment to exceptional client service.

As a full-service brokerage, Tuxedo Hudson Realty handles sales, purchases, and leases across all price ranges. “my focus will be on properties throughout Rockland County, Long Island, and The Hamptons. I’m confident that our team’s proven track record and dedication to quality will ensure a smooth and successful experience for you.” said Chabot.

Continue Reading

Trending