Established planting beds–perennial beds, mixed beds of annuals and perennials, and shrub borders–must be readied for each new growing season. This means amending the soil with aged compost, aged manure, fertilizers, and other soil amendments. The health of plants in a planting bed will directly equate to the health of the soil. Well-established planting beds […] More
The peak season for freshly harvested horseradish is early spring and late fall. Horseradish is a long, knobby root—it’s an herb, not a vegetable–that has no aroma until you scratch, cut, or grate it. The pungent odor and the hot taste of horseradish are due to a volatile oil—similar to mustard oil—that is released when […] More
A garden planting bed is home to your vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You want a planting bed in which plants will thrive and you want a planting bed that is easy to make and easy to maintain. Making a new garden planting bed should be a one-time investment in sweat equity. Once a new bed […] More
Arugula is a cool-season crop. It can be grown in early spring and in fall. Sow arugula seeds directly in the garden 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost in spring or as soon as the soil is workable. To set out transplants start seeds indoors 4 to 5 weeks before transplanting. Set transplants […] More
Annual blue salvia, Salvia farinacea, produces spikes of small purple-blue flowers from midsummer to fall. Annual blue salvia is sometimes called mealycup sage. The plant is an upright perennial often grown as an annual. Leaves are lance-shaped. Annual blue salvia has the best effect when planted in drifts in beds and borders. More than one […] More
Solidaster, a beautiful hybrid between Solidago (goldenrod) and Aster, is a vibrant perennial that brings the best of both parent plants into the garden. With its sunny yellow flowers and hardy constitution, Solidaster is a versatile plant suited for various garden settings. It combines the bright, golden blooms of goldenrod with the bushy growth habit […] More
Sciadopitys, commonly known as the Japanese umbrella pine, is a unique and ancient conifer species that has survived since the Mesozoic era. Its scientific name, Sciadopitys verticillata, refers to its distinctive “whorled” needles that resemble the spokes of an umbrella, giving the tree an unmistakable aesthetic. Native to Japan, Sciadopitys is beloved for its striking, […] More
Pseudolarix, commonly known as golden larch (Pseudolarix amabilis), is a striking, deciduous conifer, unrelated to true larches but sharing similar traits, including golden autumn foliage and soft, needle-like leaves. Native to eastern China, it is an elegant choice for temperate gardens, admired for its symmetrical form, vibrant seasonal changes, and graceful appearance in winter. This […] More
Libocedrus, commonly referred to as incense cedar, is a genus of evergreen conifers with majestic, columnar growth and aromatic foliage. Notable for its attractive, deeply ridged bark and dense, feathery leaves, incense cedar (most often Libocedrus decurrens, though there are other species) is a beautiful addition to gardens with adequate space. Native to the mountainous […] More
Pachistima, or Paxistima canbyi (commonly known as Canby’s mountain lover), is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that works wonderfully as a ground cover or in woodland gardens. Native to North America, it thrives in USDA zones 4 to 8 and has small, glossy leaves that offer year-round interest. Here’s how to grow and care for it […] More
Daboecia, commonly known as Irish heath or St. Dabeoc’s heath, is a small genus of evergreen shrubs known for their bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage. They are particularly popular in rock gardens, borders, and heather gardens. The most common species used in gardens is Daboecia cantabrica, prized for its long blooming period and vibrant flower […] More
Cupaniopsis, commonly known as Tuckeroo, is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs native to Australia and nearby regions. The most popular species in gardens is Cupaniopsis anacardioides, known for its attractive foliage, manageable size, and ornamental yellow fruit. It’s a versatile choice for gardens, used as a shade tree, street tree, or coastal plant […] More
Stephen Albert