By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

Computers are a great tool and many people wonder how we functioned without them.

They can add, subtract, talk to us, and even help us plan our dream home or in this case our dream garden.

How they do this is a secret of numerous databases and magic supplied by gardening gnomes.

Regardless of the mechanics, designing a garden using a computer is a smart approach even for the seasoned gardener.

First, designing a garden virtually verses on graph paper helps the gardener avoid those silly mistakes before the soil is disturbed. It saves time and improves the success rate of the beginning gardener. Most programs provide a plant database where information can be found. This information includes plant zones, soil, sunlight, and moisture requirements along with possible pest problems.

If the gardener is reluctant to design their own garden, many of the programs have Read the rest of this entry »

By Vanessa Richins

Social media and the Internet changing the world as we know it.

We are able to share information with just one click of the mouse.

I can ask a garden question on Twitter and get answers from around the world within minutes.

It’s amazing.

The Internet is growing at an astonishing rate. New websites pop up every minute. There’s a whole world to be discovered….if you can only find it. Search engines can help, but you don’t always even know what you’re looking for.

Stumble Upon is a social media service that strives to help you find your favorite new websites. You will be directed to random sites based on your stated interests and the recommendations of your friends. I have spent hours just clicking the button and zooming around the Internet.

You sign up for an account with Stumble Upon and check off what kinds of topics and websites you are interested in visiting. There’s a toolbar to be downloaded. Once that is ready, you just start pushing Read the rest of this entry »