Thursday, March 11, 2010

Essential gear for the tropical gardener

Not exactly for the best-dressed girl about town, but I couldn't do without these.

There seems to be no shortage of "sharp" things growing in a hot climate and these long sleeved, leather welder's gloves are just the ticket for tackling an unruly bougainvillea or thinning out vicious bromeliads. I found these at a yard sale ($1!), and they've proven invaluable.

The pantyhose/tights were given to me by the woman who runs my favorite thrift store. I cut them into smaller lengths and use them to tie orchids, ferns and small (friendly) bromeliads to palm and tree trunks. They stretch as the trunk expands and can be cut off when the plant has firmly attached itself.

8 comments:

NanaK said...

I like your thrifty ways!

Terra Mirabilis said...

Ha! I have no choice! :-)

Susan said...

You definitely need thick gloves to tackle bromeliads. Those plants can be vicious! I think I've finally run out of my supply of old stockings...they do work great for tieing plants & trees to stakes.

ChrisC said...

Have used panty hose numerous times in the garden.And the welders' gloves are a great idea.
ChrisC

James David said...

Panty hose for tying the plants - great idea but I guess I have to pass. (lol)

Ami said...

Good idea to use the panty hose. I think I can find some in my drawers :)

Kimberly said...

I've heard of using pany hose for typing off plants, but I wasn't sure why. Thanks for the explanation...now I might try it...gotta work much better than fishing line that cuts.

Noel Morata said...

i've borrowed used panty hose for many gardening purposes also and i don't know how many cheap home depot gloves i've gone through and are now mis matched...nice post!