There are approximately 15 species of hellebores that are perennial, and the majority are native to southern and eastern Europe. Other common names for this plant are Christmas rose, and Lenten rose. Most of the hellebores readily available today are … [Read more...]
Trees of Life – SOURWOOD
Sourwood Tree Oxydendrum arboreum- ok-see-DEN-drum ar-BOR-ee-um If you are looking for a native tree with beauty, usefulness and character consider the Sourwood Tree. Also, known as Sorrel or Lily of the Valley tree, it's beauty lies in … [Read more...]
Understanding Shade: How to Create the Ultimate Shade Garden
Shade can be challenging to some, and over the years as a landscape designer, I have received questions from clients on what to plant in the more shaded areas of their property. My response always is, “You can achieve a beautiful shade garden by … [Read more...]
9 Brilliant Winter-Blooming Houseplants to Brighten Dreary Days (and How to Care for Them)
Do you have the post-holiday blues? With the tinsel and decorations packed away, your home might feel a little bleak and bare. You need something pretty and festive to help endure gray, cold winter days. And as we count the weeks until the first … [Read more...]
TREES OF LIFE
American Beech - Fagus grandifolia The American Beech's symmetrical, stately bearing makes it a great native choice for a landscape that needs shade and beauty. It also features a muscular trunk with smooth gray bark said by some to look like … [Read more...]
Native and Invasive Plant Legislation in the 2024 General Assembly
The Virginia General Assembly convened January 10, 2024 and several bills were introduced in the Senate and House of Delegates that deal with native and invasive plants. MORE … [Read more...]
~ TREES OF LIFE ~
A monthly exploration of native small trees, focusing on their beauty and benefits. FRINGE TREE (Chionanthus virginicus) kee-oh-NAN-thus ver-JIN-ih-kus My sister and I saw Fringe trees in full bloom while hiking the AT; so now there is one … [Read more...]
Gardening In The New Year: Monthly Resolutions For The Garden
At the start of the New Year, many people make resolutions in search of peace, health, balance, and for other reasons. Often, these are tough promises to adhere to and studies show that only eight percent actually stick with their vows. So why not … [Read more...]
4-H Bird Seed Ornament Activity
During this time of year, many of us are decorating the indoors and outdoors for the holidays. And as the temperatures drop, it can be difficult to get outside and connect with nature, especially with the young people in our lives. … [Read more...]
11 Best Air Purifying Plants for Indoors (Low Light Bedroom, Bathroom)
Many chemicals are used as ingredients in products in our homes. Flooring material, electronics, and many other products emit toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that pollute your indoor air. Air-purifying plants can help clean indoor air and … [Read more...]