Can you imagine a nice walk to your garden to pick some homegrown - wait - what color are those? PURPLE tomatoes!? This may not be too far into the future.

Oregon State University researchers are working on a new tomato whose blueberry colored skin is full of antioxidants. The purple skin contains the same phytochemical that is found in blueberries and is known to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

But is this tomato the by-product of a petri dish? No, say researchers. This tomato is in the same family as a wild grown tomato found in South America. The hybrid is not yet available to the public - but when it is, not only will your garden be beautiful, but will provide a healthy boost of wonderful antioxidants as well!

Want a fantastic planter in your front yard that will certainly be the first of its kind on your block? It’s easy to make and inexpensive to boot!

Purchase four clay flower pots and a long garden stake. Place the stake in a large planter that has already been established with flowers. Now, lower one of the clay flower pots onto the garden stake and tilt it. Lower the next and let it rest on the first pot, tilted in the opposite direction. Continue in the same manner until all four are on. Fill each with dirt and flowers.

Pictures can tell a thousand words. This planter is unique, beautiful and inexpensive too!

Those pesky critters that munch on your veggie lunch - how do you get rid of them?

Are those pesky squirrels digging out or eating your bulbs, pansies or other flowers? Tis the season to put candy canes around your plants! Yes, this actually works. Push candy canes in to the ground around the plants your local squirrel community likes to eat. There is something about the peppermint in the candy that the squirrels do not like. Ho ho ho!

Are squirrels and birds taking bites out of your tomatoes and cucumbers? Chances are, they may just be looking for water during these hot summer months.

To keep these animals from eating your garden vegetables, first cover your plants with a mesh covering found at your local garden store. But for a faster and much cheaper solution, place low sided bowels of water on the ground near your garden. This will give the animals a place to go for water other than in your garden!