Tag: growing

Spinach, a super–cold-hardy leafy green, is a popular crop that can be planted in very early spring, as well as in fall and even winter in some areas. Spinach has similar growing conditions and requirements as lettuce, but it is more versatile in both its nutrition and its ability to...

Everyone seems to love juicy watermelon in the summertime. Native to Africa, melons need warm temperatures (up to 80°F during the day) and a long growing season. They are a true refreshment on a hut summer day. See watermelon basil agua fresca or healthy watermelon dessert pizza recipe. Gardeners in...

These attractive, broad-leaf evergreen trees grow 15-50’ tall. They are pyramidal in shape and are known for their striking red berries and deep green, leathery leaves with sharp points. American holly trees are terrific landscape plants. They are great for habitat, too. The dense foliage provides cover for small...

Arborvitae (Thuja) are one of the most versatile and attractive trees or shrubs found in the landscape. They are useful as hedge material, in pots or as interesting focal points for the garden. Planting an arborvitae hedge provides security and a beautiful screen. This easy to grow evergreen comes...

A versatile and hardy flowering vine, clematis is a well-behaved favorite and an excellent choice to adorn an arbor, trail from a trellis, or climb a tree. With more than 250 species to choose among, clematis vines flower in shades of purple, blue, white, pink, and burgundy in temperate...

In the wild, Dischidia pectinoides has struck a deal with ants: Pollinate me and I’ll give you shelter. Fortunately, this room-and-board arrangement stops at the doorstep. The Ant Plant is the perfect bathroom dweller. It loves a bit of filtered light and humidity and doesn’t need soil—it’s an epiphyte. The Ant Plant...

Often grown as annuals, Petunias are one of the most popular flowers. They are tender perennials in Zones 9 to 11. Petunias are divided into two different groups: Grandiflora petunias have very large flowers and are best grown in containers or hanging baskets (because they are more susceptible to rain damage). Multiflora petunias have smaller,...

Gladiolus is a classic perennial known for its tall flower spikes and large, colorful blooms. A great cutting flower, gladioli look spectacular in summer bouquets. Here’s how to grow gladioli in your garden. Commonly called “glads,” these lovely flowering plants are available in a multitude of colors and typically reach between 2 and...

Marjoram is a low-growing herb, perfect as a garden edging or planted in a container or window box. In the kitchen, marjoram complements almost any meat, fish, dairy, or vegetable dish that isn’t sweet.  Planting Sow seed indoors in early spring. To speed up germination, soak seeds in water overnight. Cover seeds...

Lavender is a bushy, strong-scented perennial plant from the Mediterranean. In most regions, its gray to green foliage stays evergreen throughout the year. Prized for its fragrance, medicinal properties, and beautiful color, lavender is a valued plant across the world. It also attracts pollinators to the garden. See earl grey lavender...