A Visit to Packwood Garden, Lapworth, Solihull, Warwickshire, England
Karen The gardens of this Tudor manor house are a real treat for a gardener. The timber-framed farmhouse built in the mid 16th century is interesting, but the gardens that accompany…
How to Prepare Horseradish
The tastiest treat in my fall-winter garden is horseradish. It is certainly not the most attractive plant any time of the year but it more than makes up for its…
Plant Profile: Cherry Laurel (Prunus lauroceraus aka P. officinalis)
Native to southeastern Europe and the Middle East this evergreen shrub or small tree is a member of the rose family, Rosaceae, that also includes, apple, lady’s mantle, and pyracantha.…
How to Make an Apple Swan Garnish
If you want to make a spectacular presentation at a festive event, try making this swan. I admit that this is a “Martha Stewart” sort of project but it is…
Plant Profile: Little Rascal Holly (Ilex x ‘Mondo’) male
Little Rascal holly grows in my secret garden; he was an impulse-buy but he was so darn cute I couldn’t resist. He is round and compact with small evergreen leaves…
A Visit to Athelhampton Garden, Puddletown (near Dorchester), England
Twenty acres of formal gardens enhance the 15the century manor house of Athelhampton, owned and operated by the Cooke family. The formal gardens, inspired by Renaissance models, were designed by…
How to Make your Christmas Tree Last Longer
If you bought a cut tree this year for Christmas you probably want it to look its best for the entire season. Even though the tree has lost its roots,…
Plant Profile: Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
The unusual shape and intense colors of Christmas cactus flowers brighten even the cloudiest gray days of December. Often blooming for as long as 6 weeks, mature plants are covered…
Best Buy Flowers for December Arrangements
A few flowers added to an arrangement of greens can add a special touch for the holidays. Modern growing techniques and transportation have made a huge variety of flowers available…
Plant Profile: Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex x ‘Nellie R. Stevens’)
There are many beautiful hollies that do well in moderate climates but Nellie Stevens is one of the best. It combines a highly desirable conical shape with glossy dark green…