Garden Articles

The Power of Mulching for Gardens and Yards
Imagine stepping into a lush, healthy garden where every plant is thriving, the soil feels rich and cool to the touch, and weeds are nowhere to be seen. What's the secret behind this picture-perfect scene? Often, you'll find a thick, tidy layer of mulch.

Buddleia: Our Beloved Butterfly Bush or Not?
Buddleia, commonly known as the butterfly bush, has won gardeners' hearts for its vibrant summer blooms and ability to attract butterflies. However, B. davidii is invasive, spreading rapidly and outcompeting natives.

Selecting the Right Plant for the Right Place
Creating a thriving landscape isn't just about pretty plants—it's about matching plant selection to your garden's unique conditions. This "right plant, right place" principle ensures healthier plants, less maintenance, and greater garden longevity.

The Heat is On: Heat Stress and The Veggie Garden
Heat stress in plants occurs when temperatures exceed their optimal range for growth. This typically happens during hot spells when temperatures soar above 90°F for extended periods, affecting plant health.

Deer-Resistant Annuals
Gardeners in deer-prone areas can enjoy vibrant annual flowers that deer typically avoid due to pungent scents or unappealing textures. While no plant is deer-proof, smart selections create beautiful, resilient gardens.

Combining Mulch & Stone in Your Landscape
Transform your landscape by artfully combining mulch and decorative stone. This dynamic duo creates stunning contrast and texture while providing practical benefits like moisture retention, weed suppression, and reduced maintenance.

Zinnias for a Riot of Summer Color
With their bright, cheerful flowers, long bloom period, and easy-going nature, Zinnias are an old-fashioned favorite in the summer garden. These vibrant annuals come in a riot of colors and sizes for sunny settings.

Top Ten Vegetable Garden Mistakes (and how to correct them)
Starting a vegetable garden is exciting but challenging for new gardeners. Here are ten common mistakes beginners make and tips to avoid them: choosing wrong locations, ignoring soil health, overcrowding plants.

A Guide to Home-Grown Blackberries
Transform your garden into a sanctuary of sweetness with home-grown blackberries. Picture plucking ripe, juicy berries straight from the vine, indulging in their unmatched flavor while reaping their nutritional benefits. With minimal maintenance, these resilient plants provide a convenient, sustainable source of delicious fruit.

Cultivating A Passion for Garden Photography
Does your gardening passion include taking photos of your plants and progress? Capturing the beauty of a garden through photography is a gratifying experience that allows one to freeze moments of natural splendor in time. With cell phones, it couldn’t be easier. Whether it’s the vibrant hues of blooming flowers, the delicate dance of butterflies, […]

Strawberries: Home Grown in Hanging Baskets
Do you grow strawberries? Ripe, sweet, juicy strawberries are the number one favorite fruit in the US and are definitely worth the garden space. However, if you have a small or limited growing space, raising strawberries in hanging baskets offers a creative and space-saving solution while adding a decorative touch to outdoor areas. Benefits of […]

Growing Glowing Marigolds
Ah, marigolds—they are the unsung heroes of the summer flower garden. Resilient, bold, and long-blooming, they create a tapestry of glowing yellow, gold, orange, and red that shines in a sunny setting from late spring to frost. Types There are three main types of marigolds. They all have edible petals, are perfect for creating natural […]

Bridal Wreath Spirea: Here Comes the Bride
Bridal wreath spirea adds timeless beauty to any landscape! With arching branches covered in white flowers, this easy-care shrub thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Learn how to plant and maintain it for breathtaking spring blooms year after year.

Enhance Your Garden with A Hedge Border
Transform your garden with a hedge border! Learn how to select the best plants for privacy, seasonal interest, and wildlife benefits. From compact shrubs to tall screens, explore expert tips for creating a functional, stunning, and low-maintenance outdoor space.

New Year Gardening Resolutions
As a new year begins, so do our garden plans. Winter is now halfway through; day length is increasing, and exhilarating notions of having the best garden ever consume our thoughts almost daily. Here are some resolutions to help make your dreams come true this gardening season. PLAN – A little garden planning goes a long […]