People love adding lamb’s ears (Stachys byzantina) to their gardens in the Midwest because the leaves are silver and have a soft, fuzzy, velvety feel that is hard to resist. This creeping herbaceous perennial comes from the Middle East and is hardy in zones 4–9. It is grown as an ornamental plant all over the … Read more
With their bright, cheery faces and versatility, it’s no wonder fresh sunflowers are a popular choice for arrangements and décor. But where can you find fresh cut sunflowers locally? This guide covers the best places to buy fresh sunflowers in your area. Farmer’s Markets Farmer’s markets are a top source for fresh cut flowers, including … Read more
Red shoots on roses can be a sign of healthy new growth, but they can also indicate disease. Understanding the difference between normal red growth and diseased shoots is important for properly caring for roses. Normal Red Growth Many rose varieties produce red or reddish shoots as part of their natural growth cycle. This coloration … Read more
The Edith Bogue Magnolia is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its incredibly large, fragrant white blooms and handsome evergreen foliage. This magnificent magnolia is considered one of the hardiest cultivars making it an excellent choice even for cooler climates. When it comes to growth rate the Edith Bogue grows at a moderate pace under … Read more
When spring arrives it’s exciting to see those first new shoots emerging on your rose bushes. This new growth is a sign that the plant is healthy and getting ready for another season of beautiful blooms. As a rose gardener you’ll want to understand what kind of new growth is normal and healthy for your … Read more
The strawberry tree, or Arbutus unedo, is a shrub with pretty, fragrant flowers and brightly colored fruits that aren’t strawberries but round, bland fruits. The oblong leaves are shiny and dark, 2 to 4 inches long. The tree has white or pink flowers that look like bells and grow in groups. The flowers and fruit … Read more
Flamingo willow (Salix integra Flamingo) is a very fast-growing deciduous broad-leaf shrub. Flamingo has nice-looking stems and leaves. In the spring, the leaves are a mix of white, green, and pink spots, but in the summer, they are only white and green. The red branches offer good winter color, similar to those on red-twig dogwood. … Read more
A low mound of ferny leaves that are medium green and have a strong white edge around each leaflet. In cool spring weather, the edges turn pink. Clusters of lightly fragrant violet-blue flowers. Among avid gardeners, Jacob’s ladder ‘Stairway to Heaven’ has reached legendary status for its striking variegated foliage and reliable performance This Polemonium … Read more
The Ann magnolia is a spectacular hybrid magnolia prized for its vibrant reddish-purple blooms that resemble tulips While Ann magnolias are showstoppers at any age, a full grown specimen in peak bloom is an unforgettable sight If you have the space to accommodate its mature size, planting an Ann magnolia is a rewarding way to … Read more
Hyacinths bloom beautifully in late winter and early spring, filling your home with cheerful colors and a lovely fragrance. But did you know you can save the bulbs and get them to bloom again next year? With proper storage, hyacinth bulbs can be recycled and reused. Follow this guide to learn the ideal way to … Read more