Two Minutes in the Garden: Gardening Tips, Science, Myths Empress of Dirt

We always used to be able to say that there were no GMO garden seeds. That's still true in most of the world but, in the U.S., gardeners can now buy seeds for the genetically engineered, high-antioxidant Purple Tomato.
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: What to Know Before Reusing Old Potting Mix

A recent study claimed that urban-grown fruits and vegetables had a carbon footprint six times that of those from conventional farms. Rants ensued.
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Monarch Butterflies: How Gardeners Can Truly Help

For the last 15 years, gardeners have been told that soil acts like an antidepressant, thanks to a particular bacterium. Is there anything to it?
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Winter Sowing: Two Reliable Methods for Outdoor Seed Starting

It can do great things on farms, but does crop rotation make sense in a garden? What are the benefits claimed for crop rotation, and can we get those same benefits in easier ways?
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How To Compost In The Winter (Easy Method)

Do nutrients really specialize in one aspect of plant growth, like roots or shoots? Why adding more of one nutrient to your soil, like a phosphorus-heavy bloom booster, often doesn't provide any benefit.
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Growing Poinsettias: Year-Round Care & Reblooming Guide

Are you using a balanced fertilizer in your garden? It may seem like a simple and effective way to provide nutrients to your plants, but it could also cause problems for your soil and for the environment.
NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Indoor Seed Starting: Best DIY Setup on a Budget