Ideas & How To's
Planting Fall Bulbs
Hardy fall bulbs such as Daffodil, Tulip, Hyacinth, Crocus and Snowdrop are spring flowering plants that must be planted in the fall. They are mostly native to mountainous areas of Europe and the near east ñ Spain, Turkey and Afganistan. They actually need the dormant rest period of a long, cold winter. The melting snow and ice in early spring provide needed moisture as they start to grow and flower. Plant from September to December, even after the first frost if the ground can still be worked.
Wrapping Up Your Summer Garden
The tail end of summer is one of the busiest seasons in the garden. The slightly cooler weather gives the plants a burst of energy, with beautiful summer blooms, a bounty of vegetables, and unfortunately, weeds. It is also the ideal time for planting fall perennials, spring bulbs, and get your garden ready for the cooler weather.
First Day of Spring
March 20th marks the first day of spring. This hopeful season is full of growth and new possibilities. It is a time to explore activities, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy a little bit of sunshine.
Perennials for Your Rock Garden
A properly constructed rock garden, with rocks and soil elevated in tiers provides good drainage for many small plants that might otherwise succumb to winter and spring wetness.
Rocks are best situated where the plants will receive maximum sunshine and not be shaded by trees.
Rocks are best situated where the plants will receive maximum sunshine and not be shaded by trees.
How to force Spring Bulbs Indoors
Bulbs can bring spring cheer indoors and brighten up your home, particularly in the middle of the long winter.
Bulbs can be planted in almost every type of container, providing it has good drainage. The bulbs will be planted closer together in containers than outdoors. You can combine bulbs with other plants or with other bulbs to prolong flowering enjoyment.
PRUNING SHRUBS & EVERGREENS
Pruning is an essential part of gardening. Correctly pruned trees, shrubs and evergreens will be superior in appearance, vigour and in flowering to neglected plants.
Perennials for Shade
There are so many plants that actually LIKE SHADE! If you can create a garden in the shaded north side of your home, then you can enjoy a broad range of plants that thrive in shade.
Create a Home for Hummingbirds in Three Simple Steps
When it comes to pollinators, there is nothing more fascinating than the hummingbird. This tiny creature flits through spaces quickly and is gone in the blink of an eye. Attracting these stunning species to your home may feel like a bit of a mystery. These little birds are seeking a specific environment which thankfully is simple to replicate.
The Secret to Successful Shade Loving Gardens
Shade gardens offer a place of refuge during those hot summer days. These spaces naturally attract plants in cooler tones (think blue, purple, and green) creating a space that is designed for relaxation. The secret to success is choosing the perennials, evergreens, and annuals that thrive in these lower-light spaces.
Backyard Wow
Do you love your outdoor space? We spend a lot of time making our lawns and gardens exactly the way that we want them. However, when all that hard work is done, you need a space to sit back and enjoy it. We eat, lounge, socialize and even work in these spaces, but the design is often left as an afterthought. It’s time to rethink the patio and discover how a few accessories can transform your space into an extension of your home!
Feed Your Plants
Do you want to know the secret of healthy plants? It’s simple. All plants need three things to grow well: sunlight, water, and nutrients. Each of these items work together to help your plants grow healthy and strong.
Container Gardening Simplified
Container gardens are a great way to dress up a patio or doorway. But it’s so much more than that. These miniature gardens are an opportunity to experiment with gardening trends, explore new flowers, or simply showcase a few favourites.