shade | Espoma Organic

VIDEO: Planting Hydrangeas and Yews 🌸🌲 with Wyse Guide

September 16, 2025/in Blog, Espoma Videos, Fall Gardening, Kaleb Wyse

In this Wyse Guide project, Kaleb refreshes the entry to his mom’s driveway with smooth hydrangeas and a Captain yew for four-season structure. He plants each shrub with Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus to jump-start strong root growth and reduce transplant stress, then adds Espoma Organic Holly-tone because hydrangeas and most yews thrive in slightly acidic soil. Bio-tone delivers beneficial microbes and gentle nutrition right where roots need it; Holly-tone provides a slow, steady feed tailored for acid-loving plants so they establish beautifully in his neutral Iowa soil.

Tips from Wyse Guide:

Plant when you have the window. If the soil is workable and you can water, spring through fall is fair game—plants are often better off in the ground than in pots.
Match plants to the site. Kaleb chose upright, weather-tough, smooth hydrangeas for bloom and a rugged Captain yew for year-round form in part shade with occasional dry spells.
Call before you dig. Always locate underground utilities before starting holes. Safety first.
Plant slightly high. Set the root ball a touch above grade to allow for settling and better oxygen at the crown, especially near thirsty maples.
Prep the roots. Loosen or lightly score tight root balls so roots can spread into native soil. Then, pre-soak the root ball before backfilling.
Feed and mulch smart. Mix Bio-tone and Holly-tone into the planting hole for establishment and acid-loving nutrition. Finish with a 2–3″ layer of compost like Espoma Organic Land & Sea Gourmet Compost mulch to add organic matter to lock in moisture and suppress weeds.

A simple, well-chosen pairing—hydrangeas for flowers and yew for structure—turned this entry into a welcoming focal point. Take your time, let inspiration strike at the nursery, and set new plants up for success with Bio-tone and Holly-ton

Ready to plant? Visit your local garden center for Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus, Holly-tone, Land & Sea Compost, and let’s get growing!

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10 Time-Saving Tactics for a More Efficient Garden | Growing Joy with Maria

September 11, 2025/in Blog, Gardening, Growing Joy with Maria

Has your garden started to feel like a tedious task on your never-ending to-do list? Here are 10 ways to avoid garden burnout by making gardening more efficient and simple, so you can enjoy it without feeling weighed down.

This blog is inspired by Episode 266 of the Growing Joy with Plants Podcast, where Maria chats with CaliKim, YouTube gardening educator and author of The 10 Minute Gardener. Together, they share time-saving hacks to help you enjoy gardening again—without the stress.

Start Small, Stay Consistent

One of Kim’s foundational philosophies is to break down large tasks into smaller, manageable ones (3-, 5-, 8-, 10-, or 30-minute jobs), which is the basis of her book. The 10 Minute Gardener also organizes these by season (early, mid, late, dormant), so you can adapt them no matter where you garden.

Practical Time-Saving Tactics You Can Try Today

3-Minute Gardening Tasks

Fertilizer Fridays – Every Friday, while your tea kettle is boiling or you’re sipping coffee, take 3 minutes to fertilize your plants with an organic liquid fertilizer like Espoma Organic Indoor! Houseplant Food. You can also water them or pick off brown leaves.
Swift Growth Seed Sowing – Keep a small basket of seeds handy by your back door or in your pocket. During a quick break, pop a few pea seeds along a trellis or lettuce seeds into a container to keep succession planting going.
Three-Minute Tool Tidy – Clean and oil a few garden tools, like pruners, that may be getting rusty or sticky.

5-Minute Gardening Tasks

Tie-Up Tuesday (and Thursday!) – Dedicate a few minutes twice a week to trellis plants like cucumbers. Keep tie tape or twine in your pocket so you can do this quickly while walking through the garden.
Shade Cloth Oasis – Pre-clip shade cloth to trellises so you can dash out and cover plants when the sun is blazing.
End-of-Season Cleanups – Pull out dead plants and toss them into nearby trash bins or pop-up bins to keep your garden tidy.

8- & 10-Minute Gardening Tasks

Summer Salad Station – Plant a container with salad greens, a tomato or cucumber, and herbs for a quick, ready-to-harvest dinner garden.
Hustle & Bustle Garden Bed Prep – In spring, refresh your garden beds with soil amendments like Espoma Organic Land & Sea Gourmet Compost and worm castings.

30-Minute Gardening Tasks

Compost Pile Refresh – Toss together kitchen scraps and yard waste to build your compost pile. Give it a splash of water, then walk away and let nature do the work.
Tree Branch Trellis – Gather a few sturdy sticks and lash them together to create a simple, rustic trellis for climbing plants.

Be Consistent and Keep Things Within Reach

The key is to keep everything handy and accessible. You don’t need complicated strategies to make gardening easier. Keep a basket of seeds by the door, stash pruners in multiple spots, and have tie tape at the ready. Making tools and supplies accessible ensures you stay consistent and efficient.

For more time-saving tips, listen to Episode 266 of the Growing Joy with Plants Podcast!

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VIDEO: Planting Shrubs & Harvesting Onions 🌺🧅🌿 with Garden Answer

September 10, 2025/in Blog, Espoma Videos, Flowers, Fruits & Vegetables, Garden Answer

Spend an early morning with Laura from Garden Answer as she plants hibiscus and silverthorn, adding vibrant blooms and silvery foliage for fresh contrast in her garden. To give these new shrubs the best start, she uses Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus, ensuring strong roots and healthy growth from day one.

Later, Laura moves to the vegetable garden to harvest onions—planted with Bio-tone and later fed with Espoma Organic Garden-tone—while sharing her favorite tips for growing, curing, and storing a successful harvest.

4 Key Takeaways from Laura’s Garden Day

Start with a high-quality starter fertilizer
Using a starter fertilizer like Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus at planting gives shrubs and perennials a strong foundation. It promotes quick root establishment, reduces transplant shock, and sets the stage for healthier growth and more abundant blooms.
Planting shrubs: water, spacing, and layout matter
Place shrubs where they’ll have room to grow to full size, then step back to check balance and flow in the garden. After planting, create a shallow watering basin around the root zone to ensure deep, even moisture while they establish.
Feed onions consistently through the season
Laura planted her onions with Bio-tone, then followed up with Garden-tone to keep them growing strong. A steady supply of organic nutrients helps onions size up properly and develop great flavor.
Harvest onions at the right stage
Onions are ready when their necks soften and the tops flop over. Gently pull them, then cure in a shaded, airy space for 7–10 days to allow skins to dry and harden for better storage.

From thoughtful planting to a plentiful harvest, Laura shows how preparation and care lead to success. A starter fertilizer like Bio-tone Starter Plus sets new plants up for stronger roots, while follow-up feedings with Garden-tone keep vegetables productive and delicious.

Ready to put these tips into action? Try Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus on your next planting day, and don’t forget to keep edibles thriving with Espoma Organic Garden-tone. Share your garden moments with us @EspomaOrganic on IG—let’s grow together! 🌱

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VIDEO: Planting A Shade Garden 🌿 with Wyse Guide

August 13, 2025/in Blog, Espoma Videos, Gardening, Kaleb Wyse

Whether you’re working with dry shade or full sun, Kaleb Wyse of Wyse Guide proves that every pocket of your garden can thrive with the right planning—and a little help from Espoma Organic.

In his latest video, Kaleb brings us along as he refreshes his shade beds and layers in new perennials in full-sun areas, showing how he builds textured, healthy spaces across his Iowa homestead. He’s not just planting—he’s feeding the soil and supporting every root with care.

Kaleb’s shade garden is a great example of adapting to conditions. Not all shade is the same—some spots, often under large trees, are dry shade, where roots compete for moisture and soil drains quickly. Other shady areas, like low spots or places near downspouts, hold more water, creating wet shade. Kaleb’s property has dry shade under mature maple and crabapple trees, so he selects plants that can handle lower moisture while still brightening dim areas.

To get his new additions off to the best start, Kaleb relies on Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus, his go-to for all new plantings. For hostas and other acid-loving favorites, Espoma Organic Holly-tone is also in his toolkit, enriching the soil with just the right nutrients for long-term success.

🌿 Kaleb’s Top Tips for Planting Success

1) Water Before You Plant
Always begin with a well-watered root ball so plants adjust quickly and absorb water efficiently post-planting.

2) Use a high-quality organic Starter Fertilizer
“It’s like planting insurance!” Kaleb says. He sprinkles Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus in every hole to encourage strong root development and minimize transplant shock.

3) Only Disturb Roots When Necessary
If roots aren’t bound tightly, skip scarification. Gentle handling helps reduce stress.

4) Embrace Compost—Even Last Year’s Leaves
Kaleb layers homemade compost—or a high-quality mix like Espoma Organic Land & Sea Gourmet Compost, a rich blend of natural ingredients enhanced with lobster and crab shells—right over last year’s fallen leaves. This creates a living mulch that enriches the soil naturally and builds long-term garden health.

5) Group Plants in Odd Numbers
Repeating clusters of five or seven create harmony and visual rhythm, especially in larger beds.

6) Prioritize Soil Coverage
From epimedium to hosta to Agastache, Kaleb aims for dense plantings that naturally suppress weeds and conserve moisture.

Ready to Grow Like Kaleb?

If Kaleb’s video inspires one thing, it’s that soil health is at the heart of every thriving garden. Whether your shade is dry or wet—or your planting area is in full sun—start with rich compost, thoughtful watering, and organic support from Espoma, and your plants will thank you season after season.

Let’s get growing—whether you’re filling a shady nook or bringing a sunlit border to life.

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VIDEO: Planting Red Foliage Shrubs & Refreshing Patio Pots 🌺🌿 with Garden Answer

July 22, 2025/in Blog, Espoma Videos, Garden Answer, Trees & Shrubs

Follow along with Laura of Garden Answer as she brings bold beauty to her landscape by planting a vibrant mix of red-foliage shrubs. These richly colored plants are perfect for adding contrast in sunny areas. As she plants, Laura uses Espoma Organic Garden-tone to feed each shrub with long-lasting nutrients and Bio-tone Starter Plus to promote strong root growth. She also refreshes several containers near her kitchen patio, using Espoma Organic Potting Mix to give her annuals a healthy start and keep them thriving all season.

🌳 Tips for Planting Shrubs

Feed while you plant. Laura adds Espoma Organic Garden-tone to each hole to provide organic, slow-release nutrients that support long-term growth and vibrant foliage.
Jumpstart root growth. She uses Bio-tone Starter Plus to help newly planted shrubs establish quickly and reduce transplant shock.
Design for color and space. Laura mixes bold varieties like Black Ninebark, Weigela, and Beautybush, giving each plant the room it needs to shine at maturity.

🪴 Tips for Planting Containers

Use the right soil. Laura fills her pots with Espoma Organic Potting Mix, which helps retain moisture and provides a healthy growing foundation for container plants.
Choose plants for the conditions. She selects shade-tolerant plants to thrive on her partially shaded patio.
Add visual balance. Each container includes a focal point, surrounded by fillers and spillers for a lush, finished look.

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VIDEO: Hanging Baskets for Shade 🌿🌸 with Skye Hamilton

July 8, 2025/in Blog, Container Gardening, Espoma Videos, Skye Hamilton

Watch Skye Hamilton @hamiltonhousedesigns as she shares her go-to strategy for full, eye-catching hanging baskets in spaces with dappled or minimal sunlight. She adds a creative twist on the classic “thriller, filler, spiller” method—think filler, spiller, and longer spiller! Skye recommends using a strong, high-quality organic potting soil like Espoma Organic Moisture Mix to help retain moisture, as hanging pots can dry out quickly.

While Moisture Mix is Skye’s go-to for hanging baskets, Espoma Organic Potting Mix is also a fantastic option for all container planting.

Skye’s top tips for successful shade baskets:

1) SKyle likes to use 16” baskets and adds a plastic liner (snip a drainage hole) to help retain moisture.

2) Choose shade-loving annuals—these plant types can thrive in shady conditions and often have smaller root systems, letting you plant more closely.

3) Aim for 5–7 plants per basket to create a full, cascading look.

4) Focus on “fillers, spillers, and longer spillers” to build depth and interest.

5) Let trailing plants cascade over the sides for that overflowing feel.

6) Water consistently and use soil that helps with moisture retention, like Espoma Organic Moisture Mix.

Bonus Tip:

When planting, Skye adds Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus to provide the nutrients needed for strong root growth and big, beautiful blooms.

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VIDEO: Porch-Perfect Ferns: 🌿 Planting Hanging Baskets with Wyse Guide

June 17, 2025/in Blog, Espoma Videos, Kaleb Wyse, Spring Gardening

There’s nothing quite like a porch full of lush, thriving greenery to welcome in the warmer months—and no one brings that vision to life quite like Kaleb Wyse of Wyse Guide. In his latest video, Kaleb shares how he transforms his sunny front porch into a shaded retreat using one of our favorite combinations: Boston ferns, Kimberly Queen ferns, and a trusted mix of Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix and Holly-tone.

Ferns Chosen with Purpose

Kaleb’s front porch faces south, which means intense sunlight, reflected heat, and the occasional gusty breeze. Instead of fighting nature, Kaleb leans into it—selecting Kimberly Queen ferns for their upright habit and sun tolerance, while reserving traditional Boston ferns for shadier spots near the house.

His secret to keeping these ferns happy? It starts with the soil.

Kaleb’s Planting Tips:

Kaleb chooses our Espoma Organic Potting Mix because it offers the perfect balance of drainage and moisture retention—critical for ferns, which love even moisture but hate soggy roots. This mix includes:

Perlite for improved aeration
Organic compost for slow-release nutrition
Natural, eco-safe ingredients—no synthetic fillers or plastic beads here

As Kaleb puts it: “It holds on to the moisture needed but also drains really well.”

He also adds a light sprinkle of Espoma Organic Holly-tone, our acidic plant food typically used for hydrangeas and evergreens. Since ferns thrive in slightly acidic conditions, Holly-tone gives them an extra boost without overstimulating growth—perfect for those who prefer a light-touch fertilizing routine.

🌱 Pro tip from Kaleb: Gently loosen or score the roots of pot-bound ferns before planting. It encourages them to branch into the fresh potting mix and establish faster.

Build Your Own Porch Sanctuary

Looking to create your own front porch oasis? Let Kaleb’s video be your inspiration. And when you’re ready to pot up your ferns, reach for the products trusted by generations of gardeners.

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VIDEO: Boost Your Blooms: 🌸 Fertilizing Hydrangeas the Organic Way with Skye Hamilton

April 29, 2025/in Blog, Flowers, Skye Hamilton, Spring Gardening

When it comes to hydrangeas, proper fertilizing is key to ensuring beautiful blooms and overall plant health. Skye Hamilton, gardening enthusiast and hydrangea expert, stresses the importance of fertilizing these stunning plants with a high-quality organic fertilizer as a smart investment in your garden. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, which often contain excessive nitrogen that encourages foliage growth at the expense of blooms, Skye recommends using Espoma Organic Holly-tone.

How to Fertilize in the Spring 🌸:

How to Fertilize in the Summer ☀️:

Why Holly-tone? Because it’s an organic fertilizer specially formulated for acid-loving plants like hydrangeas. Its slow-release formula ensures steady nutrient availability, promoting vibrant, plentiful blooms rather than just leafy growth.

Here’s Skye’s quick guide for successful hydrangea fertilizing:

Fertilize twice a year: once in mid to late spring and again in mid-summer.
Your first application should occur after leaves emerge but before blooms appear.
Apply the second round no later than July to avoid disrupting bloom cycles.
Missed spring fertilizing? Early summer application still benefits your plants.
Apply fertilizer during mild weather or in the evening shade to prevent root burn.
Distribute fertilizer along the drip line of your hydrangeas and gently work it into the soil surface.
Always water thoroughly after fertilizing to ensure nutrients reach the roots effectively.

With Espoma Organic Holly-tone, your hydrangeas receive exactly what they need, resulting in lush blooms and healthier plants overall. Go organic, bloom better!

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How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden with the Right Plants ?

August 28, 2024/in Blog

Hummingbirds bring a magical touch to any garden with their vivid colors and swift, darting movements. Attracting these tiny birds is all about selecting the right plants that provide plenty of nectar and visual interest. Here are some of the best plants to add to your garden to make it a welcoming space for hummingbirds.

1. Salvia (Sage)

Salvia is a hummingbird favorite due to its tubular flowers, which are perfect for their long beaks and tongues. With many varieties available, you can find salvias that bloom in shades of red, pink, purple, and blue—all of which will draw hummingbirds in.

Use Espoma Organic Flower-tone when planting to help provide the nutrients needed to produce these beautiful blooms.

2. Bee Balm (Monarda)

Known for its unique, spiky blooms, bee balm is a magnet for hummingbirds. The bright red, pink, and purple flowers provide plenty of nectar and also attract butterflies and bees, adding even more life to your garden.

3. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)

As its name suggests, the trumpet vine produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are ideal for hummingbirds. This vigorous climber can cover fences and trellises, providing a striking backdrop of orange or red blooms that hummingbirds will love.

4. Fuchsia

Fuchsia plants are well-loved by hummingbirds for their pendulous, brightly colored flowers. These plants do well in hanging baskets and shaded areas, making them versatile additions to your garden space.

5. Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

Honeysuckle vines offer fragrant, tubular flowers that are perfect for attracting hummingbirds. Look for non-invasive varieties to ensure your garden stays balanced and thriving.

6. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

With its stunning red spikes of flowers, the cardinal flower is a fantastic addition for attracting hummingbirds. This perennial thrives in moist areas, making it a good choice for gardens with water features.

7. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja)

Despite its name, the butterfly bush is not just for butterflies. Its clusters of small, tubular flowers are excellent sources of nectar for hummingbirds. This shrub comes in many colors, including purple, pink, and white, providing visual interest throughout the blooming season.

Planting Tips for Hummingbird Gardens

Variety is Key: Plant a mix of species that bloom at different times to ensure a steady supply of nectar from spring through fall.
Go Native: Whenever possible, choose native plants that hummingbirds are naturally attracted to and that will thrive in your local climate. When Planting, use Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus to provide the essential nutrients needed for these plants to establish strong roots in their new environment.
Provide Water: Hummingbirds are drawn to water sources for both drinking and bathing. Consider adding a birdbath or a water mister to your garden.

By incorporating these plants and following these tips, you can create a vibrant and inviting space that will attract hummingbirds to your garden, bringing color and life to your outdoor space. Enjoy the enchanting sight of these tiny birds flitting from flower to flower!

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VIDEO: Planting Shade Loving Perennials with Wyse Guide!

July 26, 2024/in Blog, Kaleb Wyse, Summer Gardening

Join Kaleb Wyse from @WyseGuide as he shares top tips for planting shade-loving perennials. Learn how to tackle dry shade areas, prepare soil, and choose the right plants like Hostas and Japanese Forest Grass. Kaleb uses Espoma Organic Bio-tone Starter Plus to provide essential nutrients for blooming and growth. He also revitalizes outdoor containers using Espoma Organic Potting Soil and Plant-tone fertilizer.

Learn more about Wyse Guide here:

? YouTube: www.youtube.com/@WyseGuide

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? Website: https://www.wyseguide.com/

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Tag Archive for: shade

Tips from Wyse Guide:

Featured Products:

Start Small, Stay Consistent

Practical Time-Saving Tactics You Can Try Today

3-Minute Gardening Tasks

5-Minute Gardening Tasks

8- & 10-Minute Gardening Tasks

30-Minute Gardening Tasks

Be Consistent and Keep Things Within Reach

Featured Products:

🌿 Kaleb’s Top Tips for Planting Success

Ready to Grow Like Kaleb?

Learn More about Wyse Guide:

Featured Products:

🌳 Tips for Planting Shrubs

🪴 Tips for Planting Containers

Skye’s top tips for successful shade baskets:

Bonus Tip:

Ferns Chosen with Purpose

Kaleb’s Planting Tips:

Build Your Own Porch Sanctuary

1. Salvia (Sage)

2. Bee Balm (Monarda)

3. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)

4. Fuchsia

5. Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

6. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

7. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja)

Planting Tips for Hummingbird Gardens

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