Young trees are particularly vulnerable to winter stress. Frost, freezing temperatures, and sunscald can damage bark, kill buds, and stunt growth. After decades of gardening in Sonoma Valley and Iowa Zone 5, I’ve learned practical strategies to protect newly planted or young trees in both warm and cold climates. With proper insulation, wrapping, watering, and…
Preparing shrubs and trees for winter is essential for maintaining plant health, protecting roots and branches, and ensuring vigorous growth in spring. After gardening for decades in Sonoma Valley’s mild winters and Iowa Zone 5’s harsh cold, I’ve developed practical methods that work in all zones. Proper winter preparation—from pruning and mulching to wrapping and…
Trees and shrubs with decorative bark can add another element of interest to the garden. There are colorful barks, flaking barks, and peeling barks. Some trees and shrubs have all three. Tree and shrub size and form are commonly the first things gardeners look at when choosing a tree or shrub for the garden. Not far…
Songbirds look to many annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees as a natural source of food throughout the year. Nearly all plants that attract songbirds are equally attractive to humans for their colorful flowers, fruits, and leaves. A steady supply of seeds, nuts, and berries will bring a variety of birds to your yard. Set aside…
Many trees, shrubs, and perennials are grown especially for their autumn foliage color. Autumn is a time when many deciduous plants and a few evergreens make their presence known. Many people find the colors of autumn the loveliest of the year. Autumn plant color is part of the natural processes which begin with the shortening…
Deer-resistant trees, shrubs, and groundcovers are plants deer have shunned in many gardens. If deer are hungry enough, they will eat practically any kind of plant. But if deer are a problem in your garden, you may be able to discourage them–most of the time–with your plant choices. This list includes trees, shrubs, and groundcovers…
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