🧅 Grow Green Onions Forever (From One Bunch!)

 

     

                                                                        Credit: Pexels.com

We call it sive here in Trinidad. (Yes, it’s spelled chives, but pronounced to rhyme with hive—because Caribbean gardening doesn’t always follow the rules!)

This one’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever stopped buying it.

Actually—don’t stop. Keep buying it. Because once you do this trick once, you’ll never need to again. Welcome to the magical, budget-friendly world of forever sive.

                                                                Credit: Pexels.com

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🌱 Why Sive (Green Onions) Are the Perfect Beginner Herb

• You can regrow them from the bunch you already bought at the grocery or farmers' market.

• They grow happily in containers—sunny windowsills included.

• They’re fast! You’ll see regrowth in just a few days.

                                                                    Credit: Pixabay

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🪴 What You’ll Need

• A bunch of sive with the white roots still attached

• A glass or jar + clean water

• A pot with drainage holes + soil (for longer-term growing)

• Sunlight (windowsill, balcony, or anywhere bright)

  

  Credit: Pexels.com

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🌊 Step-by-Step: How to Regrow Sive from Scraps

1. Trim the tops and use the green part in your cooking.

2. Place the white root ends in a glass with enough water to cover the roots.

3. Set the glass in a sunny spot. Within 2–3 days, you’ll see green shoots!

4. Change the water every couple of days to keep things fresh.

Once the greens are about 4–5 inches tall, you can:

• Keep harvesting straight from the glass, OR

• Plant them in soil for stronger growth and more longevity.

                                                                Credit: Pexels.com

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🌿 Care Tips

• Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

• Sunlight: At least 4–6 hours of sun. 

• Feeding: A little compost tea or diluted fertilizer now and then is great.

• Harvesting: Snip what you need with scissors, leaving 1–2 inches behind so it keeps growing, or just harvest the outer leaves.

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🍳 Kitchen Ideas

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Toss them in scrambled eggs, fried rice, soups, salads—you name it. Homegrown sive tastes fresher and has more zing than anything in a plastic sleeve.

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💚 Why You'll Love This

It’s instant garden confidence. It’s zero-waste. And it’s proof that you can grow your own food—starting right now.

Let your sive be the gateway to your happy garden dance!

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Happy Gardening🌿

The Grey-Haired Gardener🌸

🌿 Herb It Up! The Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Flavour

                                             

                Photo : Tray of herb  transplants    Credit: Pexels.com               

You don’t need acres of land or a green thumb to grow something tasty—just a sunny spot, a few pots, and a little curiosity.

Welcome to my new blog series where we take the mystery (and the misery!) out of growing herbs at home. Whether you’ve killed a cactus or you’re just tired of buying wilted basil at the grocery, this is for you.

We’re starting small—but powerful. These herbs pack a flavour punch and are surprisingly easy to grow, especially in containers. Perfect for balconies, patios, windowsills, or any little corner that gets some sun.

               Photo of  Rosemary (left) and Mint (right) Plants         Credit: Pexels.com 

Here’s what we’ll be covering in the coming weeks:

• Green onions (or chives, as we call them here)—the comeback kings of the herb world.

• Parsley—flat or curly, this leafy green is more than a garnish.

• Basil—easy, fast, and totally addictive once you start snipping.

• Thyme—low effort, high reward.

• Rosemary—fragrant, hardy, and makes you feel like a pro.

• Mint—fresh, wild, and best kept in its own container unless you like herbal invasions.

• And maybe, just maybe, we’ll explore chadon beni—our beloved Trini treasure.

                                Photo of Parsley Plants         Credit: Pexels.com

Each post will give you the how, the why, and the when—plus quick tips, common issues, and ways to use your harvest. Expect a few handy printables, lots of photos, and a good dose of garden encouragement along the way.

So if you’ve ever wanted to grow your own flavour without drama, you’re in the right place.

                                    Photo of basil plants         Credit : Pexels.com

Dust off those containers. The herb adventure starts now. 🌱 

Happy Gardening!

The Grey Haired Gardener🌸

🪴 From Seed to Sprout: A Beginner’s Guide to Seed Starting

There’s something quietly magical about planting a tiny seed and watching it grow into a thriving plant. It feels like a little act of rebellion against rising food prices and supermarket sameness. If you’ve ever wondered how to start your own seedlings — whether it’s tomatoes, basil, or even your favourite hot pepper — this guide is for you.

I used to think seed starting was for “real gardeners” with greenhouses and fancy grow lights. Not true. If you’ve got seeds, soil, and a container, you’ve already got what it takes.

                     The basic "Seed Starting Starter Kit.”- seed, soil and pots

                                                        Image Credit: Kaboompics from Pexels.com

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🌱 Why Start Seeds Instead of Buying Seedlings?

Starting seeds gives you:

• More variety: You’re not limited to whatever the garden center has.

• Healthier plants: You control what goes into your soil and how they’re grown.

• More bang for your buck: One seed packet can yield dozens of plants.

Plus, starting seeds is an empowering way to truly grow your garden from scratch.

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🪴 What You’ll Need to Start Seeds

You don’t need a lot of fancy gear. Here’s your basic seed starting toolkit:

• Seeds: Choose good-quality, non-expired seeds. Bonus points if they’re heirloom or organic.

• Containers: Recycled yogurt cups, egg cartons, or seed trays work great.

                                                                                                                                                 Image credit: Pexels.com

• Seed-starting mix: This is different from potting soil — it’s lighter and drains well.

• Water and a spray bottle: For gentle watering.

• A warm spot: Seeds love heat. Indoors near a sunny window or porch works for many varieties.                                    

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🌤 Tropical vs Temperate: Timing is Everything

Since I garden in Trinidad and Tobago, our climate lets us start seeds almost any time — but timing still matters.

• Tropical gardeners: Avoid soggy conditions in peak rainy season. Start seeds under cover, like a porch or sheltered area.

• Temperate gardeners: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost. Use a calendar or seed packet instructions to work backward.

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🧪 The Seed Starting Method (Simple and Foolproof)

                                         Image Credit: Greta Hoffman from Pexels.com

Here’s how I do it, step by step:

1. Moisten the mix before filling your containers. It should feel like a wrung-out sponge.

2. Fill your containers almost to the top.

3. Plant the seeds at the depth recommended on the packet (usually 2–3 times the seed's width).

4. Label everything! Trust me — mystery seedlings are only fun for five minutes.

5. Water gently using a spray bottle or by bottom-watering (placing trays in a shallow dish of water).

6. Place in warmth and light. A sunny windowsill or under grow lights if you have them.

7. Wait and watch. Most seeds germinate in 3–14 days. Keep the mix moist but not soggy.

                                                     Day 1 Planted
 

 

Day 5  Germination                        Day 10  Seedling  

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🌞 After Germination: What to Do Next

Once your seedlings have sprouted:

• Give them more light. They’ll stretch if it’s too dim.

• Thin them out. Keep the strongest seedling per pot.

• Start feeding with a half-strength liquid fertilizer after the first true leaves appear.

• Harden them off before transplanting by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions.

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📥 Downloadable: Seed Starting Cheatsheet

Want a printable guide you can keep handy? I’ve created a free Seed Starting Cheatsheet just for you.

[ Click here to download the PDF]

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🌼 Ready, Set, Grow

Starting seeds might seem intimidating but trust me — once you see those tiny green sprouts pushing up through the soil, you’ll be hooked. It’s a small, satisfying way to take control of your food and grow something real.

So go ahead — pick a few seeds, gather your containers, and give it a try. Your happy garden dance is just a sprout away 🌱💃

Happy Gardening!🌸

The Grey-Haired Gardener

Don’t Toss That Plant—Save the Seeds!

A Beginner’s Guide to Seed Saving for Tropical and Temperate Gardeners

Ever watched a plant bolt or fade and thought, “Well, that’s the end of that”? Not quite! If you’re new to gardening, here’s a little secret: every plant that flowers or fruits is holding a treasure. Yep—seeds you can save and replant again and again. That means fewer trips to the garden center and more self-sufficiency. Win-win!

In this post, I’ll walk you through the seed-saving basics I wish I knew when I started. Whether you're gardening under Caribbean sunshine or cool spring breezes, this guide is for you.

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🌱 What Is Seed Saving—and Why Bother?

Seed saving is simply collecting seeds from your garden plants to grow them again next season. It’s an age-old tradition that’s making a big comeback—and for good reason. It saves money, preserves heirloom varieties, and makes your garden more resilient over time.

🌸 Which Plants Are Easiest to Save Seeds From?

If you’re just starting out, choose plants that produce seeds without needing special treatment like fermenting or drying tricks.

Try:

• Lettuce (especially if it bolts)

• Beans

• Sunflowers

• Peppers

• Basil

These are great starter crops that reward you with visible, easy-to-collect seeds. 

      

                                                        Image Credits: Pexels.com

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🧺 How to Harvest Seeds (Without Losing Them to the Wind!)

                                                Image Credit: Juliano Couto from Pexels. com

Here’s the general how-to:

1. Wait for maturity. Let the plant flower and dry out naturally on the stalk if possible.

2. Harvest at the right time. Seeds should be dry but not shattering.

3. Use a paper bag. Place it over seed heads (like lettuce or basil) to catch seeds before they scatter.

4. Gently separate the seeds. Remove any husks or fluff.

5. Label immediately! Trust me—seeds can easily get mixed up.

👉 Download this Seed Saving Cheatsheet (PDF)
Keep it handy when harvesting seeds from your garden!
 

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🪴 How to Store Seeds So They Don’t Go Bad

Once you've harvested your seeds, the next step is crucial—storage.

• Keep them dry and cool. A paper envelope in a glass jar works wonders.

• Label with name + date.

• Store somewhere dark and moisture-free—like a pantry or drawer.

• Avoid plastic unless the seeds are completely dry.

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🌎 Seed Saving Tips for Tropical vs. Temperate Gardens

Whether you're in a sun-soaked tropical climate or a mild temperate zone, a few tweaks will help your seeds thrive:

Tropical Gardeners

• Harvest earlier in the morning to avoid humidity

• Use silica packets or rice to keep moisture out

• Store in airtight jars away from heat

Temperate Gardeners

• Use your cool basement or shed as a natural storage space

• Be mindful of frost dates when collecting seeds late in the season

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🧪 Pro Tip: Test Your Saved Seeds!

Before planting next season, do a germination test:

• Place 10 seeds on a damp paper towel.

• Fold, mist lightly, and place in a warm spot.

• Check after a few days to see how many sprout.

If 7 out of 10 germinate, you’ve got a good batch!

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🌟 Final Thoughts from The Grey-Haired Gardener

Saving seeds is like bottling a little garden magic. It’s thrifty, empowering, and deeply satisfying. Even when a plant bolts or goes to seed “too soon,” you’ve still got something valuable in your hands—a future garden just waiting to grow.

So go ahead, save that bolted lettuce or those dried bean pods. Try just one kind this season. You’ll be amazed how quickly it becomes second nature.

🌱 And remember: Even if you mess it up the first time—it’s all part of the adventure. You’re learning, growing, and becoming garden savvy with every seed you save.

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👉 Got questions about seed saving? Drop them in the comments—I’m happy to help!

Or better yet, tell me: What plant are you going to save seeds from this year?

Happy Gardening🌸

The Grey-Haired Gardener!

Why Are My Lettuce Plants Growing Tall? (Hint: It’s Called Bolting)

Ever looked at your lettuce patch and thought, “Why are you suddenly growing tall and weird?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone. This surprise growth spurt is called bolting, and there’s a reason behind it.

Let’s dig into what’s happening, what you can do about it, and even how to turn this into a win for your garden.

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What Is Bolting?

Bolting is when a plant shifts from leafy growth to flower and seed production. In lettuce, this means the plant grows a tall central stalk, the leaves get bitter, and before you know it—your salad dreams are dashed.            

Photo of Bolting  lettuce (Left)

Image Credit: Julia Filirovska from Pexels.com 

       

  

Photo of Normal lettuce (Right)

Image Credit: Jose Sesto Vasquez from Pexels.com                                                                     

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How Can I Tell My Lettuce Is Bolting?

Here are a few early warning signs:

• A sudden growth spurt, with a thick central stalk.

• Leaves become smaller, tougher, and may taste bitter.

• Buds start forming at the top of the plant.

If you spot this happening, your lettuce is moving on to seed-making mode.

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Why Does Lettuce Bolt?

Lettuce bolts when it's stressed, and the biggest stressor. Heat.
Other factors include:

• Long daylight hours.

• Inconsistent watering.

• Lack of nutrients.

• Pest pressure.

Basically, the plant feels its time is up—and it goes into survival mode by making seeds.

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Can I Delay Bolting?

Yes! While you can’t stop it forever, you can slow it down. Here’s how:

🌱 Water wisely: Keep soil evenly moist—no dry spells.
🌱 Feed well: A balanced fertilizer keeps your plant happy and less likely to stress.
🌱 Shade it: Use shade cloth or grow lettuce where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in tropical zones like here in Trinidad & Tobago.
🌱 Grow fast: Choose quick-growing varieties and harvest early. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
🌱 Watch for pests: Insects like aphids stress out your plants, too.

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Is There Any Upside to Bolting?

Actually—yes.

• You can save seeds from heirloom or open-pollinated varieties.

• The flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects.

• It’s a great learning experience for any gardener.
  So while the leaves might not be salad-worthy anymore, the plant still has value.

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My Lettuce Is Already Bolting. Now What?

Don’t panic! Here are your options:

• Harvest immediately—some leaves might still be edible, especially lower down.

• Leave one or two plants to flower and collect seeds.

• Pull and replant—if it’s too far gone, start fresh with a new crop.

• Compost it—a bolting plant can still feed your soil.

                                                Image Credit: Markus Winkler From Pexels.com

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Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Bolting Get You Down

Bolting is natural. It’s not a failure—it’s part of the plant’s life cycle. Every gardener faces it sooner or later, and now you know what to do when it happens. Think of it as your lettuce’s dramatic exit, and your cue to grow, learn, and plant again.

Have you seen bolting in your garden? Share your bolting stories or seed-saving wins in the comments below!

 Happy Gardening!

 The Grey-Haired Gardener🌸

8 Most Common Beginner Gardening Mistakes (and How to Fix Them Without Starting Over) 🤦‍♀️

 We've all been there!

We all dream of that lush, green garden bursting with veggies, herbs, and beautiful blooms. But if you’ve ever watched a plant wilt, yellow, or simply… give up, trust me—you’re not alone. I’ve made every one of these mistakes myself, usually with dirt under my fingernails and a confused expression. So, let’s save you some stress and set you (and your plants!) back on track.

1. Overwatering Everything

       

                                                    

I used to think more water meant more love—but nope! Drowning roots is a fast track to root rot and sad, yellowing plants. Use the finger test: stick your finger 2 inches into the soil—if it feels moist, skip the watering can. Most plants prefer to dry out a bit before their next drink.

Image Credit: Kaboompics.com

2. Planting in the Wrong Spot

           

        Image Credit : Max Dispos from Pexels.com

Sun-loving herbs in deep shade? Guilty.😔 Some plants need 6–8 hours of direct sun, while others prefer the cool shade. Take a day to observe your garden’s light patterns and match plants accordingly—it’ll save you loads of heartache.

3. Using the Wrong Soil

I once planted mint in heavy clay soil and wondered why it barely grew. The wrong soil can suffocate roots or drain too fast. Always match the plant to its preferred mix—loamy for veggies, well-draining for succulents, and compost-rich for leafy greens.

                                                    Image Credit: Greta Hoffman from Pexels.com

4. Not Feeding Your Plants

                                                     Image Credit: Mikhail Nilov from Pexels.com

I used to think dirt was enough, but even soil gets tired. Plants need nutrients, especially in pots where minerals wash out quickly. A regular boost with compost tea or kitchen fertilizers (hello banana peel water!) works wonders.

5. Crowding Plants Together

                                                         

Those tiny seedlings grow fast—I learned that the hard way when my basil became a tangled jungle. Overcrowding reduces airflow and leads to disease. Always follow spacing guidelines on seed packets and resist the urge to pack in “just one more.”

   Image Credit: Pexels.com 

6. Ignoring Pests Until It’s Too Late

                                            

I once thought a few holes in leaves were “no big deal”—until I had a full-blown caterpillar buffet. Regularly check under leaves and use natural remedies like neem oil or garlic spray early on. Prevention is way easier than curing a garden infestation.

Image Credit: Hong Kimvai from Pexels.com

7. Forgetting to Label Plants

                                     Image Credit: Frank Schrader from Pexels.com

I swore I’d remember what I planted where. I didn’t. Use labeled sticks or stones, especially when seeds are involved—because mystery plants aren’t always welcome surprises. A garden journal can be really helpful to make your little notes.

8. Expecting Instant Results

My gardening friend told me she stared at her seedlings every day for two weeks expecting a harvest. Gardening takes time—some seeds take weeks just to sprout. Trust the process, enjoy the journey, and know that slow growth is still growth.

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 So Let’s Recap:

Everyone makes mistakes when starting out—yes, even seasoned gardeners with grey hair. But most gardening goof-ups are completely fixable, and every misstep is a learning opportunity. With a bit of patience and the right tweaks, you can turn every “oops” into a “aha!”

🌱 Your Turn!
What’s the silliest gardening mistake you’ve ever made? Drop it in the comments and let’s laugh (and learn) together. You never know who your story might help! #GrowthMindset

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Remember: every great gardener was once a beginner with a failed houseplant or basil. Don’t give up—dig in, learn, ask questions and grow on! 💚

 Happy Gardening!

The Grey Haired Gardener🌸