Fast Growing Trees
Aristocrat Flowering Pear (Pyrus calleryana ‘Aristocrat’) is a beautiful tree which produces clusters of white flowers in early spring. The flowers are followed by glossy green, disease resistant leaves. In fall the foliage turns to tones of red and purple. Aristocrat Flowering Pear trees have a more dominant trunk and open form that helps this tree to be less susceptible to wind damage. Ideal for prominent areas of the garden.
Pruning Hybrid Tea and Grandiflora Roses: The Basics
Roses are often the centerpiece of the garden. Keeping them flush with blooms every season require a bit of maintenance, particularly pruning. Here are the basics.
1. Hybrid Teas and Grandifloras bloom most profusely on new growth so yearly pruning is beneficial. Prune in late fall or spring (spring is better in colder climates)
Full sun gardens require…
at least 8 hours of sun each day. Gardens which recieve between 4 and 6 hours of sun are considered part shade. Shade gardens generally recieve less rthan 4 hours.
Pruning Roses For Winter Protection
Roses which are exposed to windy conditions during the winter months are especially susceptible to damage. Longer stems can sway in the wind can cause the rose to rock back forth, thus loosening the soil and the plant’s root system. Gaps can then form in the soil around the base of the rose. If water collects in the gap and freezes it can cause harm to the graft union of the rose. Pruning the longer stems by a third to a half, in fall, can prevent this common problem.
Grass clippings, coffee grounds and leaves…
are ideal additions to a compost pile.
Selecting The Right Tree For Your Garden
Selecting the appropriate for your garden depends on your specific needs, the environmental conditions and size of your site and your own personal taste. Tree have specific sun and soil requirements which can influence its health. The amount of space you have will also inform your tree selection. Some trees, such as the white oak, are huge and will require lots of space while others such as river birch, grow tall and narrow and can fit into smaller gardens.
Patio Design
Patios and terraces mark the transition between the house and the garden. They should be though of as an extension of the house or an outdoor room. Thoughtful planning should go into choosing the appropriate materials for the hard surfaces of the garden.
Not Ready For The Snow
I’m hoping this snow starts to melt soon so I can finish up this gardening season. All I left to do is to put salt marsh hay down on the perennial beds and if we do get a warm spell, I’ll finish cleaning out the shrub beds.
Divide perennials…
during late in the day, when it is cooler, to reduce stress and replant then as soon as possible.
