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In this era of climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss we think that organic gardening practices are more important than ever. As part of our quest to encourage organic gardening, we are now carrying a selection of excellent products from the Organic Gardener's Pantry. They include organic fertilisers, mycorrhizal fungi and soil inoculants. I have used these products in my gardening business for many years and can recommend them highly. We're also offering a wonderfully approachable (and slim) book called "The Essence Of Organic Gardening" that explains the basics. Throughout the year, we'll be discussing various others ways that you can incorporate...

SAD NEWS: The Vancouver Showroom is closing permanently. We're sad to go but things are changing! We no longer need to receive and store 40' container-loads of ladders in Vancouver due to a change in our supplier's distribution system. That, combined with extremely low traffic levels after a year and a half, means that continuing to rent the space doesn't make financial sense. We've decided to focus our attention on making Victoria HQ better, maybe even bigger, and we hope you'll visit us on the island! You can also continue to find us online and take advantage of our flat rate...

NORTHWEST FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL We're bringing the "candy store for gardeners" to Seattle! Gardener's Kit is heading on the road as an exhibitor at this year's Northwest Flower & Garden Festival.  The “I Love Spring” festival will feature over 20 display gardens, more than 115 sessions and other learning activities, and thousands of treasures in the garden marketplace. The Northwest Flower & Garden Festival is the best annual event to gather ideas and inspiration for beautiful living spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to dig in the dirt, there’s something for everyone! Book your tickets here:...

A few tips to help you get the most out of your Japanese saws These tips are important because, unlike North American saws that cut on the push stroke, Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke. A different sawing motion is required and you should know that the blades can be snapped through incorrect use. Cut on the pull stroke, glide back on the push stroke. Cutting when pulling uses less energy, gives the user more control, and results in a straighter cut.  Use a smooth, gentle sawing action; its not about applying maximum force or how strong you are. Do...

We're currently experiencing unseasonably hot weather for May in the PNW. Temperatures jumped by 10C+ very rapidly and your plants may have difficulty acclimatizing to the change. The rapid increase may stress or damage plants, especially seedlings and newly-planted annuals or veggie starts. Anything that’s been transplanted recently will definitely be vulnerable and should be hand-watered every couple of days. Hydrangeas and rhodos that get a lot of sun can wilt or scald quickly. What to watch for: Drooping, wilting, crinkling or browning foliage. If you notice any of these, you should provide additional water (early morning or early evening is best) and possibly...