May 2012 Picks for the Gardener

Author: Nancy Erdmann

Issue: May, 2012, Page 114

GARDEN ABOVEGROUNDGardeners can give their knees a rest when tending plants in the Vegtrug Patio Garden planter. The elevated bed stands 31"H, and its 30"D container holds up to 380 quarts of compost or soil. Made from sustainable plantation-grown fir, it is finished with a vegetable-friendly natural stain. A fitted membrane liner holds water, so leakage is not an issue. To
order, log on to gardeners.com.

COOL COILThe Room Essentials Coil Hose is lightweight and easy to use, making it ideal for patio gardens or small yards. The plastic hose features a seven-pattern sprayer and coils back to its original size for easy storage. It is available in red, blue or taupe and comes in 25' or 50' lengths. Find it at Target.

SWEET SCENTSDeter pesky bugs while enjoying the sweet aromas of locally made Gold Canyon candles. The outdoor line contains citronella, a nontoxic insect repellent, and comes in Papaya Passion and Jasmine Lime scents. Available as 14-ounce candles that burn up to 80 hours, or packs of nine tea lights, they can be purchased through Gold Canyon, Chandler, Ariz., (866) 996-4222, goldcanyon.com.

EDIBLE FRONT YARDS
Vegetable gardens aren’t just for backyards anymore. Ivette Soler educates readers on how to create a year-round feast for the eyes in The Edible Front Yard: The Mow-Less, Grow-More Plan for a Beautiful, Bountiful Garden (Timber Press). The author offers instructions for such projects as designing a privacy screen with runner beans and a trellis, growing a carpet of fragrant herbs, or integrating succulents with edibles.