Yes, we have our peepers being noisy, and some people use this as a sign that spring has arrived. But me? I like seeing our Redbud trees in bloom as a sign of spring. As I drive around the Richmond area, I love seeing these trees in bloom in our woods. Their clusters of pink … Read more
So many people are buying plants to decorate their indoor environment over the winter, and I’ve had so many questions about which ones are toxic to pets. So here is a “partial” list. For more detailed information, visit the ASPCA’s website at ASPCA.org. Toxic Indoor Plants (For Pets) Aloe Amaryllis Asparagus Fern Avocado Anthurium Bird of … Read more
It’s the end of January, and my houseplants have been indoors since October. So, should I do anything with them now? Yes! Examine them for insects. All it takes is a missed egg or two, and, indoors, with no natural predators, you can have a problem. Here are some of the most common pests: Common … Read more
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SHRUBS AND TREES FROM WINTER DEER DAMAGE I know this is a sensitive and frustrating topic for many of you. Last year, more than ever that I can remember, many new plantings of shrubs and trees took place. With the pandemic, many of you spent time and money on the landscape. … Read more
Did you know that yesterday, January 10th, was House Plant Appreciation Day? In the middle of winter, I sure do appreciate mine. If you’re like me, you’re tired of chilly gray winter days, so you’d love to take home yet another plant to brighten a corner, a table, a windowsill. But there are some things … Read more
Now that we are in December, many people have decorating their living spaces on their agenda for the upcoming holiday season. Finding the right materials to decorate for the holidays can be as easy as taking a stroll through your gardens. Personally, I find it so rewarding to use some of my own landscape plants … Read more
Organic Insect Solution From Mother Nature Today, August 31, is National Diatomaceous Earth Day. So, what is diatomaceous earth? Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of a diatom, a single-celled algae. Diatoms are estimated to be responsible for up to 50% of the world’s oxygen. Diatoms surround themselves with a shell made primarily of silica. … Read more
From Mythology to Your Garden In Greek mythology, Iris was a messenger from the gods who traveled to Earth on a rainbow. Wherever she stepped, flowers sprang up. Iris means ‘rainbow’—appropriate when bearded iris comes in a vast array of colors from pure white to purple/black, and nearly every color in between. The three upright … Read more
If you’re like me, you had your houseplants outside back in May. I know they love the fresh air circulation, better light, and great humidity—it reminds them of “home.” I love seeing all the bright green new growth, and it’s nice not to have to pick up yellow leaves from the living room floor where … Read more
As I tiptoed through various gardening groups on Facebook these past few days, I saw several people asking how to kill ants in the yard. So I thought I’d remind us all of what they actually do. (Besides marching across our kitchen counters, climbing all over our deck furniture, and leaving anthills in the middle … Read more
