Author: jsroch

Miracle Mix

The Miracle Mix soil bag is ideal for anything that will be planted in pots and flower boxes. It’s a lightweight potting soil that holds water. It is also already enriched with compost, so you don’t have to add anything.

Mix 3

The Mix 3 soil bag is ideal for your flower beds and vegetable gardens. It’s a ready-to-use mix of soil, peat moss and compost. You don’t have to add anything.

Garden soil

Isabelle brand garden soil is a beautiful brown soil ready to mix with your best compost to plant your plants. We do not recommend using it alone, as it will lack nutrients for your plants. It is better than black soil for plants because it is richer and less sandy. Garden soil can also be used alone for planting grass (seed or peat).

Lawn Soil

Lawn soil is specially designed for planting sod or grass seed. It is enriched with nitrogen to help the grass grow. Although garden soil can do the job, lawn soil is recommended if you are planting sod in poor soil conditions (under a tree, for example) or in the shade.

Animal compost (sheep)

Animal compost is ideal for enriching your flower beds or refreshing your soil from previous years.

Shrimp compost

Shrimp compost is rich in calcium. It is therefore recommended for the garden since vegetable garden plants generally require more calcium. It is even more relevant for tomato planting, as a good supply of calcium will help prevent black spots from forming on tomatoes.

Peat Moss

Peat moss is used to lighten the soil. It is mixed with clayey soil or hard soil to make it light enough for the plants.

What is an annual plant?

The annual plant is the one that does not come back year after year unlike perennial plants. It is not designed to resist winter temperatures. This type of plant has the advantage of blooming a lot during the summer and is often easy to maintain. Some plants, in our climate, will be considered annual while in other places, where the climate is milder, they would be considered a perennial plant. So, you have to be careful when you browse websites, because many of them are French and the climate is much milder in some parts of France. You could be under the impression that a plant is a perennial when in fact it is an annual plant.

Usage

Annual plants are perfect to complement your perennial beds or they can simply be used on their own. Annuals are also great for growing in pots. The variety of colors allows you to create original arrangements and you can experiment and change them from year to year. If you want beautiful pots, but don’t want to worry about creating them, we also sell pre-made arrangements. We have several types of pots and several colors available.

Cultivation

Exposure

The exposure of the annual plants will vary depending on the variety chosen. There is truly something for everyone. Whether your arrangements are in the sun or in the shade, you will find plants of various colors that can be grown in all types of environments.

When you visit our store, you will see that the exposure is well indicated on the labels of each plant, which will help you create your arrangements.

Soil

The basic potting soil for planting should be composed of one third black soil, one third compost and one third peat moss.

When growing in a flower bed, you should provide about 20 cm (8 in.) of soil. The thicker the soil, the less often you will have to water your flower bed. A good thickness of soil also facilitates the development of the plants, which will have enough space so they can grow their roots. This will strengthen your plants. The Mix 3 potting soil from Isabelle, available at our store, is ideal for your flower beds. It is a pre-mixed soil that retains water. It is specially designed for flower beds. You won’t have to make your own mix and the soil provides the optimal environment for your plants to live in.

For the pot culture, it is necessary to make sure to have pots big enough for the type of plant chosen and the quantity wanted. Indications in store can guide you in your choices. It is necessary to favor a rich and light potting soil which retain water. Isabelle’s Miracle Mix is ideal for this purpose. It contains everything the plants will need and is very light. It will not become compact during the year and will retain water so you can water you plants a less often.

Watering

Annuals should be watered only as needed. It is important to water abundantly and deeply. Then, wait until the soil is dry before proceeding with the next watering.

For potted plants, it may be appropriate to put a finger in the soil and look a little deeper to see if the soil is still wet or if it is dry. If it is still wet, watering should be postponed.

Fertilization

In a flower bed, it is recommended to add compost to your soil every year before planting. Then, it is recommended to fertilize the plants once every 7 to 10 days with a water-soluble fertilizer. We recommend using a 20-20-20 all purpose fertilizer and a 20-5-30 flowering fertilizer alternately in early summer. Thereafter, only the 20-5-30 is recommended until fall arrives.

In pots, it is also recommended to fertilize the plants once every 7 to 10 days with a water-soluble fertilizer. We recommend using an all-purpose fertilizer 20-20-20 and a flowering fertilizer 20-5-30 alternately in early summer. After that, only the 20-5-30 is recommended until fall arrives.

See our fertilizer information section for more information on the fertilizers available at our store.

Plant pruning

Annual plants that have become slanted can be pruned at any time during the season. They can be pruned to any length you wish. Removal of deadheading is recommended throughout the season for all varieties of annual plants. This allows the plants to be stronger and bloom more during the summer.

Whether you live in the city or the country, gardening is becoming increasingly popular. It’s a fun and relaxing hobby, but it’s also a way to save money on fruits and vegetables. That are becoming more and more expensive at the grocery store. A garden allows you to have fresh fruits and vegetables all summer long. You can also preserve and enjoy tasty vegetables all winter long. But where do you start?

Cultivation

Exposure

Most fruit and vegetable plants grown in the garden prefer a sunny environment. You should therefore plan to locate your garden or planters in the sunniest spot of your yard or balcony. The sun is at its strongest between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, so you should place your garden where there is sunlight at these hours. The lack of sunlight reduces the quantity and quality of crops. It also makes plants more vulnerable to insects and diseases.

In pots or in the ground?

More and more people are choosing to grow their gardens in pots or containers. This is very practical and works wonderfully well, especially when space is limited. However, it is important to choose varieties of fruit and vegetable plants that are suitable for this type of culture. Many varieties can be grown in pots (strawberry plants, tomatoes, cucumbers, and many more). In the store, you will find all the necessary information to guide you. In pots, you must be careful about the quantity of plants you put in each one and the size of the plants you choose. Some plants, like tomatoes for example, require a lot of space and water when grown in a pot. Therefore, you should provide one pot per plant and be prepared to water more often for this type of plant.

Soil

If you choose to grow your garden in pots, you should use a light, enriched potting soil that will retain water. You can buy Isabelle Miracle Mix at our store. It contains everything your plants will need and is very light. It will not compact during the season and will retain water so you can water a little less often.

For in-ground cultivation, the basic potting soil for the garden should be composed of one third black soil, one third compost and one third peat moss. A thickness of 30 cm of potting soil is required for surface vegetables and at least 45 cm for underground vegetables (e.g. beets, carrots). A deep garden reduces the frequency of watering needed and allows the plants to develop stronger roots. The Mix 3 soil from Isabelle is ideal for your garden. It is a pre-mixed soil that retains water. It is specially designed for flower beds and vegetable gardens. You won’t have to make your own mix and you will be sure to provide the best for your plants.

Watering

For vegetables and fruits grown in pots, watering is done only as needed. It is important to observe the plants, as some require more frequent watering than others. It is important to be aware of the particularities of each plant.

The same principle applies to plants grown in the ground. Watering should be done only when needed. Watering must be abundant and deep. Water should be allowed to penetrate the soil (the effect of a long rainfall should be reproduced). In the garden, it is better to water less often, but more every time because this favors the growth of the plants and allows them to be stronger.

Fertilization

For potted plants, it is important to choose a good enriched potting soil as mentioned above. Ideally, at least half of the potting soil should be replaced every year to ensure that the plants will have the nutrients they need. Then, it is recommended to use a water-soluble fertilizer every 7 to 10 days. We recommend using a 20-20-20 all-purpose fertilizer and a 20-5-30 flowering fertilizer alternately in early summer. Thereafter, only the 20-5-30 is recommended until the arrival of cold weather. The 20-5-30 promotes flowering and fruiting.

For soil-grown plants, adding compost each year is essential. A rich compost such as shrimp compost or manure should be favored. A water-soluble fertilizer can be used every 2-3 weeks. Again, we recommend using a 20-20-20 all-purpose fertilizer and a 20-5-30 bloom fertilizer alternately in early summer. Thereafter, only the 20-5-30 is recommended until the arrival of cold weather. The 20-5-30 promotes flowering and fruiting.

Tomato plants have a particularity. Has your tomato ever turned black? Tomato plants need a lot of calcium. In order to prevent them from turning black, they must be fertilized with a calcium-enriched fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the summer. It is possible to alternate this fertilizer with 20-5-30 to obtain the best results.

See our fertilizer information section for more information on the fertilizers available at our store.

You want to make a garden, but you don’t know when to plant each type of plant? This is for you. First, it is important to know that you will not be able to plant all your plants at the same time. Some plants tolerate the cold well while others do not. Then, you must know that this calendar is for information only. You have to be careful, because the temperatures vary from year to year. It is therefore necessary to adapt according to whether spring arrives earlier or later.

Early May (about 5°C at night)

• Cabbage family
• Onions, garlic, leek,
• Sow shallots, spinach, radishes
• Lettuce
• Rhubarb
• Herbs (except basil and verbena)
• Asparagus

Mid-May (about 10°C at night)

• Tomatoes
• Eggplant and artichoke
• Celery
• Fennel
• Sow beets and carrots

Late May (between 12°C and 15°C at night)

• Basil and verbena
• Swiss chard
• Ground cherries
• Cucumbers, zucchini
• Squash and pumpkins
• Melons
• Peppers and peppers
• Sowing beans and peas, cucumbers

If you have planted your plants and a sudden cold snap or frost is forecasted, don’t panic. Simply cover your plants with a sheet or any type of fabric. Avoid plastic because it transmits the cold. If the plants are in pots, you can also put them in the shed or garage or even in the house for the night. Do not forget to take them out during the day.

We have had the opportunity to test several fertilizers over the years. Our strong experience in the horticultural field has allowed us to select some of the most efficient fertilizers while being the easiest to use for you.

General information

Fertilizers have always three numbers. What do they mean? They are percentages indicating the minerals that are contained in the chosen fertilizer and the quantity of these minerals.

The first number

The first number on the left is always the % of nitrogen in the fertilizer. Nitrogen is an essential element for the development of any plant. It is the main component of chlorophyll and proteins that will stimulate plant growth. A plant that receives enough nitrogen will have beautiful, strong, brightly colored foliage. Its stems will be strong.

The second number

The middle number represents the % of phosphorus that the fertilizer contains. Phosphorus is the mineral that promotes the development of the plant’s roots. It promotes efficient transplanting and the development of the plant. It is used to make the plant stronger and to promote the eventual production of flowers or fruits.

The third number

The last number on the right represents the % of potassium in the fertilizer. Potassium helps regulate the plant. It allows the plant to assimilate chlorophyll, to resist diseases and bad weather. This mineral will allow your plants to produce flowers or fruits in abundance all summer long.

Here are the different fertilizers we sell and their uses

All-purpose fertilizer 20-20-20

This is the basic fertilizer for all plants. It is used at the beginning of the season to promote the growth of strong and healthy plants. It is relevant for annuals, garden plants and fruit trees. It is often recommended to alternate it with 20-5-30.

This fertilizer is water-soluble. It is added to the watering water. It is necessary to put about one tablespoon per 4 liters of water. You can also get a dispenser to connect to your garden hose.

Flowering fertilizer 20-5-30

This is the fertilizer that promotes the production of flowers and fruits. At the beginning of the season, it is alternated with the 20-20-20 so that the plants get stronger. The more the season advances, the less the 20-20-20 is used. At the end of the season, we use only the 20-5-30.

This fertilizer is water-soluble. It is added to the watering water. It is necessary to put about one tablespoon per 4 liters of water. You can also get a dispenser to connect to your garden hose.

Slow Dissolving Fertilizer 14-14-14

Slow-release fertilizer is a solution for those who do not wish to mix fertilizer with water and apply it often. This fertilizer is used only once or twice throughout the summer. It is mixed into the soil when planting and then dissolves over the course of watering. It helps the plant gain strength, and it provides the basic nutrients that are needed throughout the summer.

The last number (potassium) is lower than for the 20-5-30, so this fertilizer is not as beneficial for flowering, but it remains a good compromise when you don’t want to fertilize often.

Tomato fertilizer 12-2-14 enriched with calcium

Tomato is a plant that requires a lot of calcium. The use of a tomato fertilizer enriched with calcium is necessary to avoid the formation of black spots on the fruit.

This fertilizer is water-soluble. It is added to the watering water. You need about one tablespoon for every 4 liters of water. You can also buy a dispenser to connect to your watering hose.

Fertilize tomato plants every 2 to 3 weeks with this fertilizer and alternate with 20-20-20 or 20-5-30.

Rooting fertilizer 10-52-10

The rooting fertilizer is very strong in phosphorus. It is used to promote the rooting of plants during transplanting. It is not necessary to use it for all types of plants. It is mainly used for transplanting shrubs or perennials that have been in place for a few years and that we want to move or when we plant a tree.

This fertilizer is water-soluble. It is added to the watering water. It is necessary to put about one tablespoon for 4 liters of water. You can also buy a dispenser to connect to your garden hose.

It is used only once during transplanting.

Unlike annuals, perennials are durable plants that come back year after year. There are thousands of species that can be used for all types of purposes. They come in all shapes and colors.

Perennials have different blooming times. Therefore, you can play around with your landscaping by choosing perennials that bloom at different times in order to have flowers all summer long.

Perennials can be grown alone or with annuals in your flower beds.

Planting

Timing

Perennials are usually planted in the spring or summer. Wait until the soil has completely thawed. Try not to plant them too late in the fall so that they have time to establish roots before the frost.

Exposure

Exposure of the plant will vary depending on the variety chosen. There is truly something for everyone. Whether your arrangements are in the sun or in the shade, you will find plants of various colors that can be grown in all types of environments.

When you come to our store, you will see that the exposure is well indicated on the posters of each plant, which will help you create your arrangements.

Soil

The soil required for perennials is the same as for annuals in flower beds. The soil should be about 20 cm (8 in.) thick. The thicker the soil, the less often you will have to water. Adjustments should be made according to the type of plant chosen. A good thickness of soil also favors the growth of plants that will have enough space to grow their roots. You will then have stronger plants. The Mix 3 soil from Isabelle is ideal for your flower beds. It is a pre-mixed potting soil that retains water. It is specially designed for flower beds. You won’t have to make your own mix and you will be sure to give your plants the best.

Be careful with the location you choose, as some perennials prefer well-drained soil and others will prefer a moister soil. This information is well indicated in our store or is easily available on the internet.

Watering

Directly after planting, the perennial will need to be watered often. You must water the plant in depth in order to soak the soil. This will help it to take root. After a few weeks, watering should be spaced out more and more and eventually rain should be enough. However, it is important to be aware of periods of drought or hot weather during which watering may be required.

The amount of water required may vary depending on the plant chosen. It is important to ask about this when purchasing.

Fertilization

Perennials require little or no fertilization during the season. Just be sure to add good compost at the beginning of each season. A good amount should be added at the base of the plant. Any type of animal or marine compost will do.

Plant pruning

Some plants will require more maintenance than others. You can also sometimes prune them for aesthetic reasons. It is important to get the right information when you buy a plant, because the level of maintenance and pruning required can vary.

Preparation for winter

When buying a perennial, it is important to pay attention to its hardiness. Hardiness is the ability of a plant to withstand the rigors of winter. The Canadian territory is classified in nine hardiness zones that go from 0 to 8. The higher numbers correspond to the places where the winter is mildest. Each zone is divided in two classes, “a” and “b”. Class “a” is slightly colder than “b”.

The zone level varies for each region of Quebec. It is therefore important to find out about your region before purchasing perennials to ensure that they will withstand the temperatures observed there. This information is available on the internet (http://quebec-horticole.ca/zones-rusticite.php).

« Exemple : la ville de Québec est zonée 5a, ce qui veut dire que l’on peut y cultiver toutes les plantes de zone 5a, de zone 4 (a et b), de zone 3 (a et b), de zone 2 (a et b) et de zone 1 (a et b). »

It is important to know that the preparation of your plants before winter will be influenced by their hardiness. The most resistant ones will not need any protection. Ideally, plants should not be cut or should be cut very little in the fall because their stems and leaves serve as protection. They should only be cut in the spring to leave space for new growth.

If your plants are more fragile or if you have chosen zoning outside or on the edge of what is recommended for your area, the purchase of winter protection cones may be required.

Fall leaves and winter snow can also serve as good natural protection. You can bury your perennials with these to create a good insulating layer. However, it is recommended to wait until the temperatures are cold or even freezing before doing so.

In the spring

In the spring, wait until the ground has thawed before doing anything. You may or may not want to clean up last year’s leaves from your flower beds. These can decompose and fertilize the soil during the summer, if left in the flower bed.

For perennials, you can remove dead or broken branches. You can also cut the stems lower or higher depending on the plant. This will allow it to grow new shoots. Always adapt to the type of plant you have and do some research in case of doubt before cutting. Not all plants have to be trimmed low or very low.

Finally, we must be careful in the spring because we can sometimes believe that one of our perennials did not survive the winter. However, some varieties like the perennial Hibiscus grow back later in the summer. So don’t worry about it and give the plant the time it needs.