NAME: Gro by Scott’s Miracle-Gro
WHAT IT DOES: Provides advice on creating gardens based on your local conditions.
COMPATIBLE WITH: iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, requires iOS 8.0 or later
HOW MUCH: Free
WHAT’S GOOD: Tell this app your address and it provides garden projects based on the type of soil in your area. Bugged by mosquitoes? Select “Sayonara Skeeters,” a container of scented geraniums, marigolds and ageratum, flowers that mosquitoes dislike. For cooks, there are herb (sage, basil, rosemary) and eggplant Parmesan (basil, eggplant, Roma tomato, Greek oregano) gardens. Or pick one of the pretty ornamental flower plans. After you’ve selected a garden, the app will choose plants that match your growing conditions and tell you how much sun and water they require. A checklist of suggested supplies is used to compile your shopping list. Once you’ve planted, the app analyzes the temperature, wind, humidity and rainfall in your region and lets you know when watering is necessary. You’ll also find general interest topics and tips in the “Plant Library.”
WHAT’S NOT: The app is a boon for beginning gardeners, but those who have been planting for years will probably know most of what the app contains. However, it will track their local weather conditions and is a helpful reminder when the soil needs tending to. The plant library is alphabetical, but would be easier to use with a search function. Needless to say, the tools and materials section and your shopping list contain only items manufactured by Scott’s Miracle-Gro.
BOTTOM LINE: It’s fun, free and informative.
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