Archive for March, 2020

Siberian Wallflowers – Tough Winter Annuals

In areas of the U.S. where winters are mild, Siberian Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri), (formerly Cheiranthus cheiri), is  an early flowering favorite in the late winter garden. The species hails from Southern Europe (USDA hardiness zones 7-9). Many books list them as biennials and a few as “tempermental perennials”. Wallflower is a woody-based herbaceous perennial subshrub in the mustard […]

Six Easy To Grow Spring Wildflowers

These six native wildflowers emerge in early spring in rich woodland soils. In gardens grow them in moist, organically rich soils in partial to full shade. Adding compost substitutes for fertilizing. All grow in moderately acidic to slightly alkaline soils (pH 6.0-7.5). Plants go dormant by early to mid-summer, earlier if soils dry out. Under ideal […]

Redbuds With Awesome Summer Foliage

Native redbuds Cercis canadensis) is native to eastern and central North America (USDA hardiness zones 4-8). This small tree is a highly dependable small flowering tree. Redbud is typically a relatively short-lived tree, perhaps 20-30 years at best. Depending on variety, their lavender / pink/ white pea-like flowers emerge in early spring, usually a week […]

Smoketrees For Their Multi-Seasonal Appeal

Smoketree or smokebush (Cotinus coggygria) is a large shrub or small tree native from southern Europe to central China (USDA hardiness zones 5-8). Over time it typically matures to 10-15 feet high and wide. Depending on cultivar (see list below), smoketrees have oval leaves tinted in rich purple, gold, or green shades. Generally, they grow […]

Six Perennials For Dry Shade

Many of the following perennials tolerate dry shade but flourish in moist, well-drained soil. Each typically displays the richest foliage colors with a couple of hours of direct sunlight a day. All hold up well to dry conditions and are deer and rabbit resistant. Barrenworts (aka Bishop’s cap, Fairy Wings) (Epimedium spp.) represent over 70 […]

Rhododendrons You Should Be Growing

“A healthy plant in the right place with proper maintenance” is a rhododendron that has few problems. Rhododendrons and azaleas are acid loving plants meaning plants should be planted in humus-rich slightly acidic soil (pH 5.2 -6.5). If the soil is not well amended, rhododendrons will have trouble surviving long term. Once planted, water during […]