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Seasonal tips, announcements, and more

The Strader's Blog

Check back often for the latest announcements, planting tips and ideas for your lawn and garden projects.

Eliminate Water Garden Algae

Control water garden algae naturally by adding the right plants! Floating plants like water hyacinths provide shade, submerged plants compete for nutrients that feed algae, and oxygenating plants create conditions toxic to algae growth.

Watering 101

Save water and money with smart gardening! Learn essential techniques like mulching to retain moisture, improving soil for better water absorption, choosing drought-tolerant native plants, and using efficient irrigation systems like drip watering.

Big Green Egg®: The Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Experience

Discover why Big Green Egg® ceramic grills are the gold standard for outdoor cooking. From smoking brisket to grilling steaks, explore versatile cooking methods and essential accessories for your backyard culinary adventures.

Daylilies… Easy to Grow, Fun to Collect!

Daylilies are versatile, durable perennials perfect for novice and experienced gardeners alike. With 35,000+ cultivars available, they're trouble-free to grow and adaptable to many conditions. Each flower lasts one day, but continuous buds provide weeks of summer color.

Tent Caterpillars

Tent caterpillars may look "ugly" and "disgusting," but they're manageable! These Eastern tent caterpillars can defoliate plants quickly, but attacks are rarely fatal. Learn four proven methods to eliminate them: Bt spray, natural predators, manual removal, and fall egg mass cleanup.

Kniphofia, Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) is a striking perennial with torch-like flowers in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Hardy in zones 5-9, it's drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and attracts pollinators. Perfect for sunny gardens.

PSA-Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is transmitted through deer tick bites and can be debilitating if untreated. Protect yourself with light clothing, DEET repellent, immediate showering, and yard maintenance. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics usually cures it.

Ladybug or Lady Beetle?

Ladybugs, or lady beetles, are not just cute - they're pest-eating powerhouses. With over 350 species in North America, they help control aphids and protect your garden. Learn their lifecycle, behaviors, and why they’re more than just a pretty insect.