Phlox are iconic flowering perennials loved for their dense, colorful blooms However, some look-alike flowers actually aren’t phlox at all One in particular is an invasive plant that can threaten natural habitats. Learning to identify key differences helps avoid mistakes. The Issue of Look-Alike Flowers Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) is a popular border plant grown … Read more
Adding perennial flowers to your vegetable garden can provide multiple benefits beyond just visual appeal. With their ability to return year after year, perennials establish a stable framework in the garden and continue providing ecological services over time. From attracting pollinators to deterring pests, read on to discover 12 of the best perennial flowers to … Read more
Sunflowers are iconic symbols of summertime, with their sunny yellow petals and tall, sturdy stems While they are known for their vibrant color, black and white sunflower photos can be equally striking. Removing color focuses attention on the intricate details, interesting textures, and graphic elements that make sunflowers such great photographic subjects Characteristics of Black … Read more
‘Queen of Hearts’ is a popular variety of heartleaf brunnera featuring silver-frosted leaves veined in deep green and forget-me-not-like blue flowers in spring. This carefree perennial thrives in shady spots, is deer and rabbit resistant, and adds striking foliage contrast to the garden. Read on for tips on successfully growing and caring for ‘Queen of … Read more
Hellebores bring charming late winter and early spring color to shady garden beds. Starting these lovely perennials from seed can be an economical way to add them to your landscape. However, hellebore seeds have particular needs when it comes to planting time for good germination rates. Read on to learn the optimal time to sow … Read more
Each year the American Hosta Growers Association (AHGA) selects a Hosta of the Year to showcase a top variety for gardens. For 2022 they have chosen the petite charmer ‘Island Breeze’ as a must-have hosta. About the AHGA Hosta of the Year The AHGA began naming a Hosta of the Year in 1996 as a … Read more
Sedums are popular succulent perennials prized for their colorful foliage and drought tolerance Many spreading sedum varieties also produce cheerful yellow flowers in summer These creeping stonecrops make excellent groundcovers or trailing accents in containers, Here are 7 of the best creeping sedums with yellow blooms 1. Golden Creeping Sedum Golden creeping sedum (Sedum kamtchaticum) … Read more
Oak trees are renowned for their impressive canopies of lobed green leaves that provide abundant shade. But have you ever wondered exactly how many leaves grow on a fully mature oak? Estimating oak leaf count takes some calculations, but we can arrive at a ballpark figure using the tree’s size and other factors. How Tree … Read more
With its upright habit and rich purple flower spikes, Veronica royal candles makes a bold statement in borders and cottage gardens Combine this eye-catching perennial with companion plants that complement its form, color and blooming season Here are 10 excellent options for pairing with Veronica royal candles 1. Coreopsis Coreopsis offers a continuous display of … Read more
Louisa May Alcott’s short story “Roses and Forget-Me-Nots” is a heartwarming tale that explores powerful themes of kindness, gratitude, and memory. Through two vignettes, Alcott shows how small acts of compassion can transform lives and be remembered for years. Overview of the Story “Roses and Forget-Me-Nots” consists of two parts. In the first part titled … Read more