What's that heady fragrance drifting on the air at dusk? Cinnamon, nutmeg, nectar...scents that emanate from an oriental lily or lilac or honeysuckle. What's a garden without those wonderful scents? But have you ever wondered how and why flowers smell the way they do? Read More
Fall is an excellent time to assess the landscape for those sometimes attractive invasive species that surreptitiously get into our gardens. When most other plants are fading, drooping, and basically dying, these hardy plants become quite visible. Read More
Believe it or not, most of the 50 states have their own official insect! For the sake of brevity, I'll present the information by insect rather than state. So you see, you'll have to read the whole article to learn the identity of your own state's favorite. Read More
Fall is here and quickly on its way out in many parts of the country. Gardens are slipping gently into winter slumber. What's a gardening nut to do? Enjoy the brief respite with some fun facts. Read More
Whether you're looking for someone to mow and trim, or a company to maintain your grounds year 'round, do your homework. Typically, March is the month when homeowners begin to think about the coming season of lawn care, although in many parts of the country, the weather does not cooperate until later. Read More
In a gardener's life, nothing is sadder than a move which leaves behind cherished plants. In the case of homeowners who've lived in the same place for many years, there may be no choice but to wave goodbye and move on. For those of us who "pick up sticks" every few years, the decision can be a difficult one, especially when we adore every single growing thing on the property! Read More
A famous wise-person named Anonymous once said, "Anyone who has a bulb, has spring." No truer words ever spoken! The beauty of these plants is their ability to produce spectacular displays with not much work on our part. In many parts of the world, it is not too late to position these amazing plants in the garden. Forthwith--a year of bulbs, corms, and rhizomes. Read More
Dazzling flowers, graceful foliage, and dramatic form turn hanging pots into showpieces. If you want something more than the usual selection available in the garden centers, think about designing your own unique hanging gardens. Read More
Dark green leathery leaves and beautiful pendulous flower sprays make Pieris a shade shrub that any gardener will enjoy. Read More
White stuff all across the country and, in some regions, record low temperatures. We stay inside, or bundle up to brave the elements, but our pets and livestock need some assistance to stay comfortable during bad weather. Horses usually seem not to be bothered by snow and cold weather, but check these five items to be sure your horses will stay healthy and comfortable. Read More
Winter in Ohio (Zones 5, 6 and 6a) begins in December and continues through the end of March--sometimes longer in certain years. An array of winter blooming perennials and shrubs helps us get through the dreary, cold days. And in more temperate regions, a greater variety of floral displays helps keep the winter blahs from setting in. Read More
In 1851, the streets of New York City saw the very first retail Christmas tree lot. Over the decades, the tradition of finding the perfect tree has filled literature and song, but sadly, in our hurry-scurry world today, luxurious pre-lit artificial Christmas trees are beginning to be the norm. I know, the cut live trees are expensive, it?s often difficult to find a nice one, and they drop needles all over the place. But, oh--they smell so good! Read More
I love blue, and this interesting member of the Parsley family is one of the easiest blue flowers I know. Drought-resistant and un-fussy about soil types, Sea Holly is a wonderful addition to any perennial garden. Read More
Winter weather often takes a heavy toll on our landscape elements. Breakage from ice and snow, wind damage and uprooting, and the terminal effects of salting the roads and streets for months on end. Additionally, long-term use of herbicides can detrimentally affect our trees and shrubs. One day, we look out and discover that the magnificent maple in the front yard is all but dead, or the nice evergreen hedge has yellowed. While it's better to maintain these landscape specimens with an eye to preventing the damage, sometimes we are simply faced with a difficult decision. Read More
Most gardeners are quick to say that a weed is simply a plant growing in the wrong place! This is true, and often what we consider weeds are native plants that grow in the wild. That's exactly why they thrive in our lush, fertile gardens. This series will discuss some of the most common weeds and what to do about them when they intrude. Read More
A magnificent spreading maple tree towers over the house and back garden, providing relief from the summer sun--a refreshing spot to relax and enjoy the floral scenery. But even moderate shade poses a challenge for planning a garden or flower bed. Annuals and perennials are easily tucked here and there, but what if you want a nice woody ornamental as a focus piece, or to provide privacy to your restful spot? Here are some tried-and-true shrubs for shady gardens. Read More