Starting seeds indoors is the perfect “fix” for the gardener with cabin fever and a need to get their hands in the soil or simply a desire to get a head start on spring. Despite the frigid temperatures, March is the time to make a seed-planting … [Read more...]
The Ageless Gardener
“A little studied negligence is becoming to a garden” — Eleanor Perenyi in “Garden Thoughts” (1981)For the past several years some authors of garden books have honed in on writing what can best be described as adaptive gardening or gardening for a … [Read more...]
ISI Tomatoes
Though paper garden catalogs are not as plentiful as in years past, many of you are finding that your mailboxes contain these dream packets. If not, a quick internet search will yield a plethora of seed companies to peruse. Ask anyone who … [Read more...]
Wildflower of the Year 2020 Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum)
Wild Geranium is an excellent garden plant, fitting well with mixed perennials in light shade or naturalistic woodland settings. CONTINUE SOURCE: https://vnps.org/2020-wildflower-of-the-year-wild-geranium-geranium-maculatum/ … [Read more...]
Vegetable Gardening in January
As is the natural cycle of things, January in the Virginia Piedmont is a period of dormancy and regeneration for our outdoor plants and for gardeners. It is ideally a relaxing time of planning and preparation for the coming spring, with a little bit … [Read more...]
BEST NEW VEGETABLES, HERBS, AND FRUITS OF 2020
We’re only about nine weeks away from traditional pea-planting time (St. Patrick’s Day) and the beginning of a new growing season. It’s not too soon to think about what to buy, order, or make plans to plant while the selection is best. Especially … [Read more...]
Winter Pruning
Winter is the right time to prune many types of plants in our landscapes. For those who are interested in pruning timing and techniques, I hope this helps. CONTINUE SOURCE: https://pitt.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/02/winter-pruning-2/ … [Read more...]
Evaluating the Garden
Winter is the perfect time to reflect on the successes and disappointments of last year's garden. In the lull after the holidays, stop and take a few minutes to assess the successes, challenges, and disappointments of the past growing season. … [Read more...]
African Violets – Bringing Beauty Indoors
Bringing beauty to the indoors is a goal of any gardener in the winter months. African violets have a reputation of being fussy plants, but with just a little care and the right conditions, they can thrive, bloom, and enhance any home. … [Read more...]
Common Bugs And Pests On Houseplants
Many houseplants are susceptible to indoor bugs and insects due to the lack of natural atmosphere indoors. There’s no wind to blow the pests away or rain to wash them off. Houseplants are totally reliant on their owners for protection for pests. The … [Read more...]