FLOWERS AND MOOD
Researchers at Rutgers University have shown that flowers have a positive long-term effect on a person’s mood. People participating in the survey reported feeling a higher sense of enjoyment and satisfaction with life after receiving flowers. They also felt less depressed and agitated.

“Where flowers bloom, so does hope” – Lady Bird Johnson

GOT MINT?
Gardeners may get nervous when thinking about planting mint in the garden. However, this may be a good excuse to use it more frequently. Adding fresh mint to iced tea and ice cream, it is summer time after all, is one way. Add it to grilled foods such as fish. Mint aids in digestion and helps freshen the breath. And, one way to control it from spreading is to plant it in a plastic pot and sink the pot in the ground. Be sure the pot has drainage holes.

RATIONALE
A quick reminder—one hour of gardening will reduce stress, help boost bone density and burn up to 300 calories. So, keep in mind that tending to the garden is good for the plants and good for you, too!

REPEL INSECTS
Looking for more natural ways to help ward off mosquitoes and other insects? Catnip, marigold, rosemary and mint are good herbs to use. Try placing the crushed leaves of these plants in small containers where you sit on the porch or patio. Be sure to replace them with fresh herbs frequently.

TOMATOES
We know that tomatoes like hot weather. However, those summer heat waves may not always be good for the plants. Most tomato plants will fail to set fruit once the daytime temperatures rise above 95 degrees and night time temperatures exceed 78 degrees.

CONEFLOWER
The perennial Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is a favorite of gardeners and birds. And new varieties are adding additional color choices, with unusual names, such as Tomato Soup (red flowers) and Mac n’ Cheese (orange-yellow flowers). Tennessee coneflower is on the endangered plant species list and would be one another good coneflower to add to your garden.

BIRDBATHS
When trying to attract birds to your garden, the number one thing they need is water. Be sure to include a bird bath. Make sure it is clean and filled with fresh water. There are many decorative styles that also include water fountains.

BLACK-EYED SUSANS
A wonderful summer flower to include in your garden is Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia). One of the best varieties is ’Goldsturm’. They are great for using in flower arrangements. Butterflies are attracted to them and birds like the seed heads. This perennials is also tolerant of poor soils and dry conditions.

STORING HERBS
It is possible to keep some herbs fresh after cutting. To keep basil fresh, trim the stems and quickly stand the stems in water. You can also cover the cuttings with a clear plastic bag and keep them out of direct sunlight. You can store parsley and cilantro in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge. Be sure to add a damp paper towel. This will work well with rosemary, chives and thyme, also.

GARDEN ART
Looking for ways to help promote the garden and outdoor activities? Try hanging these colorful garden posters (@$12). This and other ideas will help prompt people to head outside to the garden. www.victorygardenoftomorrow.com

BLOG
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