I know the feeling…. It’s the middle of winter and spring fever is starting to set in. You’ve gone through all the seed catalogs, ordered seeds and sketched a garden layout. But now what?! It’s still months before you can put a seed in the … [Read more...]
Where Do Snakes Go in the Winter?
I don’t see snakes on the trails in the fall and winter months. Do they hibernate like bears? Is there a “snake season?” I have so many questions. Read more: … [Read more...]
Real Christmas Trees have a second life
After the holidays, don’t throw your Real Christmas Tree in the trash. Real Christmas Trees are biodegradable, which means they can be easily reused or recycled for mulch and other purposes. Here are some recycling options and tips on what to do with … [Read more...]
Mistletoe science and folklore
Many of us think of mistletoe as a little twig with green leaves and white berries, tied with a red ribbon and hung in doorways during the holidays, where it is a popular tradition to stand under and receive a kiss. However, mistletoe has a long and … [Read more...]
HOLIDAY DECORATING WITH FRESH GREENERY
Decorating the house with fresh greenery is one of the oldest winter holiday traditions. Evergreens have been a part of winter festivals since ancient times. Evergreens are used to represent everlasting life and hope for the return of spring. … [Read more...]
THANKSGIVING & CHRISTMAS CACTI
Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) are popular, fall- and winter-flowering houseplants native to Brazil, and are available in a wide variety of colors including red, rose, purple, lavender, … [Read more...]
AMARYLLIS
The large bell-shaped or lily-like flowers of the amaryllis (Hippeastrum species) and its hybrids make excellent garden and potted plants. They are available in a wide range of flower colors including red, white, pink, orange, salmon or bicolored and … [Read more...]
Tips for Selection and Care of Cut Christmas Trees
There is no right or wrong species when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree. It all depends on your tastes and what is available locally. Bringing a freshly cut tree into your home, having it hold irreplaceable ornaments and bear witness to the … [Read more...]
The do’s and don’ts of holiday decorating with plants
Keep holiday greenery fresh and pets safe from toxic plant material by following a Virginia Cooperative Extension master gardener’s expert tips. Continued: … [Read more...]
Can I harvest garden vegetables after a frost?
You can delay your garden harvest of some root crops and greens until after a frost and still have a bountiful harvest. Read more: … [Read more...]