Merle Huerta

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Garden Guides uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding gardening and landscaping, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert insight and tutorials from our talented team.

As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Merle Huerta

  • Structures
    Structures By Merle Huerta November 4th, 2022

    Inexpensive Ways To Cover Dirt In A Driveway

    Inexpensive Ways to Cover Dirt In a Driveway. Recycled gravel is one of the cheapest driveway overlays for a dirt driveway. Recycled asphalt gravel is also a durable, inexpensive option for dirt driveways. There are other relatively inexpensive options. Before you choose one, Tim Carter from AskTheBuilder.com recommends you analyze your driveway, potential sources of moisture, grade and potential maintenance costs. While initial materials may be cheap, long-term maintenance requirements may help you decide which is best for you.

    By Merle Huerta November 4th, 2022 Read More
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    Produce
    Produce By Merle Huerta November 4th, 2022

    Vermiculite Toxicity

    Vermiculite Toxicity. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral whose thin, shiny layers and appearance resembles mica. This mineral compound is formed by the weathering and transformation of the minerals biotite and phlogopite. Like many micaceous compounds, vermiculite layers can expand up to 30 times their original size when subjected to intense heat. In its post-heated form, vermiculite is light weight, absorbent and versatile.

    By Merle Huerta November 4th, 2022 Read More
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    Lawn Care
    Lawn Care By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022

    Signs & Symptoms Of A Blown Lawn Mower Head Gasket

    Signs & Symptoms of a Blown Lawn Mower Head Gasket. In gasoline-powered lawn mower engines, the head gasket, which separates the cylinder head from the engine block, is a regulator of sorts. Not only does it prevent coolant and oil from mixing; it seals in the internal combustion process. If the head gasket's seals are weakened or if the gasket head has blown, your lawn mower will fail to operate at full power. To diagnose a blown head gasket, look for certain troubleshooting signs.

    By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022 Read More
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    Produce
    Produce By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022

    Natural Bonsai Insecticide

    Natural Bonsai Insecticide. In Zen Buddhism where the practice originated, the art form of bonsai creation wove themes of man, nature, elements and change into a form of meditation and expression. While bonsai is not necessarily considered with such reflection in today, it is still a horticultural wonder that links us closer to harmony, nature and imparts beauty to our homes and gardens. While a bonsai's care isn't particularly difficult, it does require careful watering and preventative care, especially in regard to pests.

    By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022 Read More
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    Produce
    Produce By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022

    Which Fertilizers Have Red Phosphorus In Them?

    Which Fertilizers Have Red Phosphorus in Them?. Red phosphorus is an insoluble, somewhat stable compound used in firework pyrotechnics and in the manufacture of matches. If treated with phosphoric acid, it can be used to produce a water-soluble super-phosphate fertilizer. While 77 percent of red phosphorus is used in fertilizer manufacturing, because it must undergo chemical processing to be useful in agriculture, it's impossible to know which retail fertilizer uses it as a component. However, if you're using an inorganic commercial fertilizer, granulated, powdered or liquid, you can be quite confident that red phosphorus was a part of the manufacturing process. In contrast, organic fertilizers use slow-release phosphorus-rich organic ingredients that degrade over time. Examples include bone meal and bat guano.

    By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022 Read More
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    Trees
    Trees By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022

    Papaya Tree Fertilizer

    Papaya Tree Fertilizer. The papaya, a member of the Caricaceae family, is a tropical fruit grown primarily in Hawaii, in the southwestern United States, and in Mexico and Central America. In both the Mexican and Hawaiian varieties, the fruit, leaves and seeds are edible. If you plan to grow a papaya in a container or from seed, you should understand its nutrient requirements. The papaya is a heavy feeder, and choosing the best fertilizer is essential to growing a lush tree.

    By Merle Huerta September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • Lawn Care
    Lawn Care By Merle Huerta March 24th, 2022

    Problems With Ariens Zero-Turn Mowers

    Problems With Ariens Zero-Turn Mowers. Ariens, a manufacturer of lawn and gardening equipment since the 1930s, marketed its Zero-Turn Mower in the early 2000s. Designed to maneuver and cut grass more efficiently, this next generation riding mower, while highly rated by Popular Mechanics, didn't rate in the top three because of inherent flaws pertaining to rider safety, ease of use and comfort. Additionally, unless you have more than an acre of lawn, the costs to purchase and maintain Ariens Zero-Turn Mower can be steep.

    By Merle Huerta March 24th, 2022 Read More