Blooming Dates in the Metro Area

March Pieris japonica, Japanese Camellias, Pussy Willow, Daffodils, Crocus, Mahonia Early April Pieris japonica, Japanese Camellias, Daffodils, Crocus, Early Magnolias, Forsythia, Dwarf Rhododendron, Bradford Pear, Saucer Magnolia, Spirea Mid/Late April Flowering Crabapple, Cherries, Dogwood, Azaleas, Early Rhododendron Early May Dogwood, Viburnum, Peonies, late Azaleas, Tulip Poplar, Lilac, Weigela, Roses Mid/Late May Rhododendrons, Mountain Laurel, Nandina,… Read More

Christmas Cactus

One of the most popular indoor plants around Christmas time is the beautiful Schlumbergera bridgesii, otherwise known as the Christmas cactus. This flowering epiphytic cactus may bloom anywhere from early November into February, depending on the light and temperature conditions, making this an attractive choice for homes lacking a bit of natural plant color in… Read More

Amaryllis

There are few things lovelier than Amaryllis in full bloom. Here’s what to do to make sure yours knocks your socks off. Buy the largest size bulb for the variety. Larger bulbs mean bigger — and more — flowers. Keep in mind that miniature and double-flowered varieties usually have smaller sized bulbs. Make sure your… Read More

Care of Your Christmas Greens

Fresh cut Christmas greens—pine boughs, holly sprigs, mistletoe, etc.—are excellent for winter and holiday décor, both indoors and out. Extend the life and enjoyment of your fresh greens by following these easy steps: Soak Immerse greens in cold water overnight or up to 24 hours. The needles will soak up moisture to stay plump and… Read More

The benefits of fall gardening

Benefits of Fall Gardening

In our area, fall is the ideal time to plant all kinds of things from cool-season veggies, turf grasses, and perennials to both evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs. Yet, strangely, when it comes to planting, many homeowners think only of spring. Officially Fall Fall officially begins with the autumnal equinox in late September. Basically,… Read More

Planting Spring-Blooming Bulbs in the Fall

Fall is the season to think spring-flowering bulbs—colorful tulips, cheerful daffodils, fragrant hyacinths. To help make your spring garden as trouble-free as possible, we answered some of the most commonly asked questions here. For a list of recommended spring-blooming bulbs, visit Types of Spring-Blooming Bulbs in our information archive. When is the best time to plant bulbs… Read More