Fall is in the air, and for many of us, pumpkin time has arrived. Many markets and nurseries have welcoming displays of the colorful “fruits.” Yes, we are told that pumpkins are technically berries, not vegetables! Who knew? Pumpkins are members of the Cucurbita genus, a group of herbaceous vine plants that also include cantaloupes … Continue reading It’s Pumpkin Time
In spite of the crazy weather we’ve had this summer, from record-setting heat waves and pollen counts, to severe floods and damaging windstorms, we’ve been rewarded with some lovely blooms. Especially pretty were the daylilies, hostas, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and hibiscus, to name a few. Amazingly, even some of our azaleas re-bloomed. Right now it’s … Continue reading Hello September!
One of the benefits of being a garden writer is receiving review copies of newly published garden books. I recently received “All about Flowers” written by Thomas J. Mickey, whom I first met through The Garden Writers Association (GWA), as it was called back in the day. The book tells the story of James Vick … Continue reading Summer Reading
According to our local weather forecasters, this month’s many days of 90-degree-plus temperatures have resulted in “the longest June heat wave in nearly a century.” And the pollen count has been the worst we can remember. For sure, every raindrop has been welcomed with open arms. The Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa) blooms have been extraordinary. … Continue reading It’s Officially Summer!
It’s so good to see the perennials emerging after their winter slumber: Mayapples, Peonies, Hostas, Daylilies, Iris, Ferns, Sedums, Trilliums, etc. The flowers of the Grape Hyacinth bulbs (Muscari armeniacum) are beautiful and long lasting. However, many consider the plants to be invasive. We are told that removing old blooms before they set seeds, or … Continue reading Perennials Emerging
April promises us some brighter, warmer days. Daylight Saving Time began on March 14, and spring arrived on March 20. Sunsets have been getting later, as our days are getting longer. The white Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), our earliest flowering bulbs, did not disappoint us this year. Taking their place now are the blue Siberian Squills … Continue reading Brighter Days Ahead
Many gardeners in our region have been keeping busy enjoying virtual lectures, symposia, workshops and tours. Although libraries may be closed, they are still providing services, whether via eBooks, audioBooks, curbside pick-up and drop-off services, etc. I highly recommend a book I received for Christmas from a dear friend. “The Artist’s Garden” by Jackie Bennett … Continue reading New Year Dreams
Recent storms including raging winds, pelting rains and heavy snowfall have created some challenges in our town. Work continues regarding the removal of many fallen trees and ripped-off branches. We are told that the trees are also under stress from lack of water, and reports of “the hottest November on record” create a conundrum, for … Continue reading Holiday Wishes
Earlier this month I wrote that I hoped to savor the season before winter arrived. Well, it arrived and there will be no “savoring,” for sure. Yesterday’s snowstorm dumped lots of yucky, sticky snow as the temps took a nosedive. I certainly wasn’t dreaming of a “White Halloween” this year! The containers on our front … Continue reading A Winter Wonderland
