Vinca major and vinca minor, also known as bigleaf periwinkle and common periwinkle, are evergreen flowering vines often used as ground covers. With their shiny leaves and eye-catching blooms, it’s no wonder they are staples in many gardens and landscapes. But if you are trying to decide between vinca major and vinca minor, it helps … Read more
One of the best ways to add visual interest and color to your garden is with evergreen flowering shrubs. Their lush greenery persists through winter, while flowers in spring, summer or fall provide seasonal blooms. For gardeners in zone 6, there are many beautiful options that thrive in the chillier winters and warmer summers. The … Read more
Elephant ear plants are known for their super-sized heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long. They make a bold statement in any garden or container. While the most common elephant ear varieties have green leaves, there are some stunning dark purple varieties that will really make your plantings pop. In this article, … Read more
Dock leaves are a common sight in many backyards and wild areas. Their large, distinctive leaves often have wavy or curly edges. But are these leaves safe for human consumption? Let’s explore the potential risks of eating dock leaves. What is Dock? There are several species of dock but two of the most prevalent are … Read more
With their spiky floral spikes in shades of purple blue, pink red, and white, salvias bring unique beauty to gardens. These hardy perennials also attract pollinators and bloom profusely from summer to fall. But salvias look even better when paired with complementary companion plants. The vertical form and bountiful blossoms of salvias allow them to … Read more
You can grow gooseberries in your garden, but how do you know when they’re ready to pick? The good news is that there are no hard and fast rules about when you pick your gooseberries. Although it can be hard to tell when to pick fully ripe gooseberries, it’s also possible to get very useful … Read more
With their fun, cascading foliage, spider plants are popular indoor houseplants But what are the ideal lighting conditions for these plants to thrive? Understanding the light requirements for spider plants will ensure your plant stays healthy and grows well How Much Light Do Spider Plants Need? Spider plants do best in bright indirect light. The … Read more
As an avid crossword puzzle fan I frequently encounter intriguing and sometimes very challenging clues. One that has stumped many solvers over the years is “The Jetsons’ dog.” At first glance it seems simple but fitting the answer into the grid can prove tricky. As a fan of Hanna-Barbera cartoons like The Jetsons, I decided … Read more
Ceanothus ‘Dark Star’ is an award-winning variety of California lilac cherished for its stunning floral display. In spring, this compact evergreen shrub becomes smothered in clusters of fragrant royal blue flowers. ‘Dark Star’ makes an excellent addition to coastal gardens, borders, slopes and more. In this growing guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know … Read more
Lemongrass is a tropical plant that is popularly used in Asian cuisine. Its citrusy, lemony flavor adds a refreshing zing to soups, curries, and teas. While lemongrass is commonly grown as an annual in temperate climates, it is actually a perennial grass. With a little care and effort, it can be propagated indoors year round. … Read more