Robby It surprises me every year at this time how many different containers have gathered in my basement to stay safe over the winter. For ten years, I’ve been growing amaryllis bulbs. This year, I have shamrock (oxalis) that grew outside all summer and pots of chives, rosemary, and sage that have had their stems cut … Read more
Having grown up in the countryside, nature and self-sufficiency have always been big part of my life. Nature is everything to me, and I got to learn even more about it while I was in college studying agricultural systems science. Favourite fruit: apples, blackberries and plums Favourite vegetables: potatoes, peppers and courgettes. Alocasia zebrina is … Read more
Maple trees are symbolic of strength, endurance, balance, and longevity. Unfortunately, sneaky thieves try to take these trees’ beauty, but we can help you figure out what diseases affect maple trees and how to treat them. Perfect as specimen trees or lining a long driveway, you can’t deny their beauty and majesty. Typically, maple trees … Read more
With their large, tropical-looking leaves and dazzling spires of blooms in vibrant shades, canna lily plants make a dramatic statement in gardens. Their flowers come in a diverse range of hues from rich reds to sunny yellows. When picturing canna lilies most people first think of the tall brilliant red-flowered varieties. But there is an … Read more
There is a group of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae that are called flea beetles. As their name suggests, they can jump because their back legs are very big. Overall they are not very large in size (described as small to moderately-sized, ranging from 1. 5 to 4 mm typically). Flea beetles can also … Read more
For gardens seeking an elegant narrow evergreen, Picea glauca ‘Skinny Blue Genes’ is a perfect choice. This aptly named cultivar of the Black Hills spruce boasts rich blue needles and a slender conical form that adds refined vertical interest. Discover why this distinctive spruce deserves a spot in landscapes seeking standout conifers. Part of the … Read more
My indoor lime and orange trees have both had sticky leaves for a number of months. If i take them outside and hose the leaves the problem goes away for a week or so. Some leaves have things on them that might be the cause, but I don’t know what they are or how to … Read more
Frans Fontaine hornbeams are quickly becoming one of the most popular landscape trees for homes and businesses. Their attractive shape, hardiness, and ease of care make them an ideal choice for gardens, borders, screening, and more. But where can you find these fabulous trees for your own yard? Getting your hands on a top-notch Frans … Read more
When caring for potted plants and gardens, most of us want to provide the best growing conditions possible. We look for ways to boost blooms, encourage healthy foliage, and extend the life of cut flowers. This often leads to questions about using commercial flower foods. Will these products benefit our houseplants and garden plants? Or … Read more
With their small, apple-like fruits crabapple trees provide a bountiful natural food source enjoyed by many bird species. The abundant crabapples ripen in fall and often persist through winter offering vital nourishment at a time when food can be scarce. Read on to learn more about the popularity of crabapples with birds. An Overview of … Read more