Saturday, January 2, 2010

Smartphone Applications Help Gardeners Dig For Data

From The Fresno Bee, December 23, 1009, by Dean Fosdick:

As smartphones keep getting faster, smaller and loaded with more features, there's something in it for gardeners: more than a hundred software programs, or applications.

Gardening apps aim to help with everything from locating supplies to fending off mosquitoes to converting cell phones into flashlights. Some are offered free, but most cost a one-time fee for downloading into your handset.

Here are some useful gardening programs available online. Not every app remains long on virtual shelves or operates with every phone, so check for availability and compatibility before ordering.

"Pocket Garden"
(iPhone, 99 cents)
Contains pictures and advice about growing hundreds of plants, most of them vegetables.

"Flowers Guide"
(iPhone, $1.99)
Alphabetical database of 55 flowers with photos, botanical name, origins and descriptions.

"Botanical Interests"
(iPhone, $5.99)
Botanical Interests, an online seed company, offers tips about growing vegetables, and a primer on seed starting, soil preparation, attracting pollinators, plant histories and much more.

"Botanica"
(Android, free)
Pairs plants with hardiness zones, provides space for photos and journal entries.

"Landscaper's Companion"
(Android, $6.99)
Useful for information gathering and selecting plants.

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