Plant Profile: ‘Blue Zinger’ Carex
Our busy lives mean that our landscapes and gardens often end up the last task on our giant to-do lists. This makes finding the absolutely toughest yet easiest to grow plant a high priority for most homeowners.
How to Create a Pollinator Haven
Bees and other pollinators are a significant part of our world today. Without pollinators, our food sources, as well as the food sources for many other animal species, would look very different.
With the decline in the pollinator population, we all must step up to help make a change. And, whether you have a single container, landscape, flower garden, or acres of land – we can all make a difference. Here are some simple ways to help create havens for pollinators.
The Rise and Fall of the Bradford Pear
Ornamental Pear was once the most sought after tree. The abundant white flowers, dark glossy foliage, and spectacular fall color made this tree undeniably desirable. In recent years, the Missouri Department of Conservation has been stringently working to alert people to the pitfalls of these pears. So what is all the alarm about? Find out why this one-time darling of street trees is now considered invasive and what you can plant instead.
Plant Profile: Stachys monieri Hummelo
There are times when incredible plants are lackluster in their containers. Hummelo Stachys is one of those plants.
Planted in a landscape, Hummelo holds the anticipation of bright pink flowers. Its glossy green foliage, low growing, concealing the ground. But the plants at the garden center are often only a handful of low-growing leaves.
Everything You Need to Know About Boxwood Blight
Boxwood is, quite possibly, the most versatile and perfect plant that you can add to your landscape. Many varieties are compact by nature but with the ability to take large amounts of pruning, can be kept at any size necessary. Boxwood can be either formal or kept natural. It is the one plant that you can easily integrate into any style of landscape, regardless of form.
But what happens when the much-loved boxwood appears to be under attack? Here’s what you need to know about Boxwood Blight.
Plant Profile: Summer Crush Hydrangea
I don’t know if you’ve heard yet, but Endless Summer® is releasing a brand spanking new hydrangea this year. And why exactly should you get excited about yet another new hydrangea? With this hydrangea, the gloves are coming off! This insanely colored hydrangea is giving the standard ho-hum baby blue and pretty pink hydrangeas one serious kick in the pants!
Holly Berries – How to Guarantee Berries on your Holly
Berries brighten holiday decor, much like holiday lights. Bright red berries tucked in glossy, evergreen foliage or standing alone in stark contrast to a tan stem. Nothing says holiday like holly berries.
But the abundant berries don’t just appear on their own. Winter may be the time of year that we adore our holly, but spring is the time when all the magic happens. We’re talking about the birds and the bees.
Why You Should Plant in the Fall
Autumn in Missouri is packed full of pumpkins, sweaters, fall colors, and apple cider. But, one adventure that you should add to your autumn to-do list is a visit to the garden center. With the warmer days and cooler nights, fall creates the perfect environment for planting. And, most importantly, for creating root growth.
Autumn Allergies – Goldenrod vs. Ragweed
Autumn allergies abound this time of the year and the leading plant to take the blame is goldenrod. But, my friends, goldenrod is not the culprit of your sniffles and sneezles. In a case of mistaken identity, goldenrod takes the full blame for fall time hay-fever. The real culprit hides, camouflaged, behind the blooming beauty that is goldenrod. What is behind your autumn misery? Ragweed.
Is it Possible to Overwater Plants?
Overwatering is a common reason why newly planted trees and shrubs die and need to be replaced. If you diligently water your new trees and shrubs, you probably already know how easy it is to do! Learning why plants die from too much water and what signs to look for will help even the most meticulous waterers walk away from their plants.