Ah, marigolds – they are the unsung heroes of the summer flower garden. Resilient, bold, and long-blooming, they create a tapestry of glowing yellow, gold, orange, and red that shines in a sunny setting from late spring to frost. Types There are three main types of marigolds. They all have…
In nature, few relationships are as intricate and essential as that between the Monarch butterfly and the milkweed plant. Famous for being the most recognized insect in the US, these vibrant winged beauties rely on milkweed not only for sustenance but for their very survival. Sharing this fascinating relationship between…
Native to the Americas, dramatic Agave is the perfect companion for the California landscape. Along with its striking leaves and architectural form, Agave is astonishingly drought-tolerant and fire-resistant, important qualities for west coast landscape plants. About Agave Although leaf shape and color may vary, Agave leaves always radiate from a…
Bulbs are some of the easiest and most dramatic flowers you can add to your landscape and containers, and you can make them even more spectacular when you create layers of bulbs for lush growth and bursts of brilliant color. But how can you go about layering bulbs for the…
This insect can be large and intimidating, but the praying mantis in your garden is a guest to welcome and celebrate, not one to fear or eliminate. Understanding these beneficial insects can help every gardener realize just how useful praying mantids can be. About the Praying Mantis There are more…
Now is the time to start planning your entry garden. This welcoming patch has the power to set a warm and friendly tone for those who pass through your garden on the way to your front door. It does take some planning to set the proper mood, however, and you…
Gardening is a valuable skill and teaching young children to garden imparts to them much more than just how to grow plants. Raising the next generation of gardeners is incredibly rewarding and adapting gardening practices to engage kids will get children of all ages enthusiastic about soil, seeds, and harvests….
Hellebores are cherished for their early blooming flowers and ability to thrive in shady garden spots. However, these beautiful plants can fall victim to a serious condition known as Hellebore Black Death Disease. Hellebore Black Death is a viral disease named for the dark streaks and spots it causes on…
Have you noticed the odd-looking plants with neon bright flowers blooming since Halloween? You may know them as Thanksgiving cactus, Christmas cactus or Crab Cactus. Whatever you call them, they’re certainly bright and cheerful, and bring a bold bloom of color indoors during the winter months.
Is it just a bit chilly to sit outside and enjoy your fall or winter garden? Hundreds of years ago, Mexicans had the same problem. They solved it by making chimeneas and using them for heat and cooking. Will a modern chimenea help you enjoy your outdoor living space even as the weather turns cooler?
No matter how cold the temperatures or how deep the snow, you can enjoy the pleasures of herbs this winter season by growing them in your windowsill. Herbs are great for adding zest to any food and are a delicious substitute for salt and artificial flavors.
One of our sweetest holiday traditions is kissing under the mistletoe, but how much do we really know about this custom or, for that matter, the plant itself?
Your garden is filled with bounty, and not just during the growing season. With a bit of creativity and some help from your local garden center, you can find many lovely gifts and holiday accents in your garden and landscape, letting you share your love of gardening with friends, family…
Waxed amaryllis is a beautiful, unique, and easy-care holiday plant, and you can enjoy it for weeks after the holiday season. The more you know about waxed amaryllis, the better you will be able to care for the plant and keep it looking glorious. What Is Waxed Amaryllis? Waxed amaryllis…
SEPTEMBER Spray Bonide All-Season Spray on hemlocks to control woolly adelgid. Spruce up the landscape by planting Fall Pansies, Flowering Cabbage & Kale, Garden Mums, Fall-Blooming Perennials as well as Trees and Shrubs. Test your lawn pH to determine if you need to apply lime this season. A 5o lb….