GardenLeap

tips, guides and articles to jump start your garden

Archive for December, 2009

10 Native Shrubs For The Garden

Posted by plantsman On December - 5 - 2009

Native species of shrubs are under utilized in the garden. Many native plants are beautiful and easy to grow. The following are few prized native shrubs which are perfect for the garden.

Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a desiduous shrub with fragrant yellow flowers that open in late October or early November. It takes a full year for the fruit to mature. When the seed capsule splits open in fall, 1-2 black seeds explode out of it, landing up to 30 feet away. Various birds and wildlife eat the seed after it falls to the ground. Upright spreading branches are perfect nesting sites for a variety of birds. Deep, golden yellow fall leaf color can be outstanding.

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An Introduction To Water Gardens

Posted by plantsman On December - 5 - 2009

fountainWater gardens are a wonderful addition to any property. They incorporate stonework, interesting plants and lighting. Water gardens which encompass waterfalls and fountains provide the garden with the soothing sounds of running water and all water gardens create a sense of coolness and tranquility as well a place to include exotic species of plants.

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Native species of trees and shrubs…

Posted by plantsman On December - 5 - 2009

grow naturally in your climate and are less susceptible to extreme environmental conditions such as particularly harsh winters.

Tree Planting Tips

Posted by plantsman On December - 3 - 2009

bigtreeProper tree selection and proper planting techniques are essential to the success of newly planted trees. In spring, searching for new trees can be fun, yet with so many options, it can be difficult to choose. Studying your garden’s conditions (soil, sun/shade, wind exposure) will help narrow your options.

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Plants For A Fragrant Garden

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

Fragrant plants are a wonderful addition to any garden. Planted next to a gathering space, lavender or lilac, are quite effective. Other plants, however, such as the Sweet Bay Maganolia, can fill an entire property with the scent of its flowers.

Trees

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Christmas Tree Tips

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

spruceBefore you go tree shopping measure both the width and height of the space in which you want to place your tree. You’ll want to choose a tree that is at least one foot shorter than the ceiling height. Also, measure your tree stand to determine the maximum diameter of the tree trunk you can use in it.

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Trees For Creating Dappled Shade

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

Sometimes a garden design calls not for sun or shade but for dappled shade. Trees which create dappled shade allow some sun to reach the ground. Its ideal for sitting area or for lawns since beneath these trees grass can grow. The following is a list of trees which will create dappled shade.

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When cutting flowers…

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

for indoor use, do so in the early morning for best results.

Rock gardens…

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

are an ideal solution to difficult to plant slopes.

Rose Gardens

Posted by plantsman On December - 2 - 2009

orange roseRoses are perhaps the most popular of all garden plants. There are a number of different varieties in endless colors. Some roses can be grown as ground covers while other may be trained to grow on arbors, trellises and other garden structures. Many varieties bloom continuously, with diligent deadheading, throughout the entire growing season. Others still are treasured for their fragrance.

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