Characteristics of Old Garden Roses: Alba Rose
Karen The name “Alba’ would lead you to believe that these roses are white. In fact, they are also various shades of light pink. They are the result of a cross…
Plant Profile: ‘My Monet’ Weigela (Weigela florida ‘Verweig’)
Weigelas have an old-fashioned charm but this one is special and offers even more. It is only 12” high and compact, forming a neat mound. Its leaves are variegated with…
Five Favorite White Heirloom Peonies over One hundred Years Old
Peonies have been garden favorites for many years. They originated in China about three thousand years ago when they were valued for their medicinal attributes. After they were introduced into…
Plant Profile: Bottle Gentian (Gentiana andrewsii)
For a flower with an unusual shape, try bottle gentian. The common name gives you an idea of what to expect. Yes, the flowers look like little bottles or large…
Book Review: The Truth about Organic Gardening: Benefits, Drawbacks, and the Bottom Line
Have you ever noticed that if a product is marked “organic” the price is higher than similar ones? Apparently a lot of people are very attracted to products, especially food,…
Plant Profile: Meadow Anemone (Anemone canadensis aka A. pennsylvanica)
A North American native of moist meadows, streams banks, and open woods, this herbaceous perennial is a member of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, that also includes delphinium, clematis, and hellebore.…
Plant Profile: ‘Toffee Chip’ Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)
The variegated foliage of Ajuga reptans seems to show endless variations and ‘Toffee Chip’ is another excellent one. The leaves have gold to cream margins and centers of brown and…
Pussy Willows at Easter
Easter traditions commonly include eggs, rabbits, Easter lilies, palms, jelly beans and other candy. For some people, however, pussy willows can be added to the list. Pussy willows are one…
Book Review: American Horticultural Society Pruning and Training
This large handsome book is the ultimate guide to pruning and training for experienced and novice gardeners alike. Step by step instructions are given for every pruning situation with detailed…
Characteristics of Old Garden Roses: Damask Rose
The Damask roses have a certain mystic. Is it the name that suggests an exotic origin? or the recollection of a heavy fragrance? Both are true of the Damask rose.…