Category: Outdoor living

Our featured flower of the month is Blue Bells. Bluebells, particularly the English bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), are native to Western Europe, especially the UK and Iberian Peninsula. They thrive in woodlands and shaded areas, forming dense carpets of violet-blue flowers in spring. Bluebells prefer moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and can spread through bulbs and seeds. They are known for their sweet fragrance and are often associated with folklore and symbolism, representing humility, gratitude, and constancy. However, some species like the Spanish bluebells, can be more vigorous and hybridize with native varieties. Cheers 

The last and final shrub that I would like to feature is Viburnum. Viburnums are a diverse genus of about 150 species of shrubs and small trees, primarily native to the temperate regions of Asia and North America, with some species found in Europe, Africa, and Malaysia. These plants have gained popularity in horticulture for their ornamental value, featuring attractive foliage, fragrant clusters of white or pink flowers in spring, and colorful berries in the fall that attract birds.

Cultivation of viburnum is relatively straightforward. They are adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline conditions, though they generally prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Most viburnums thrive in full sun to partial shade, with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day being ideal for optimal flowering and fruiting.

Planting is best done in spring or fall, ensuring adequate spacing to accommodate the mature size of the chosen variety. Regular watering is important, especially during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, many viburnums are relatively drought-tolerant. Fertilizing is usually not necessary, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring if desired.

Pruning requirements vary depending on the species; however, since most viburnums bloom on old wood, heavy pruning is generally not recommended as it can reduce flowering. Light pruning to shape the plant or remove dead or crossing branches should be done immediately after flowering. Propagation can be achieved through seeds, although this can be a slow process, or more commonly through cuttings taken in late spring to early summer or hardwood cuttings in late fall to winter. Cheers

For quite some time now, I’ve encouraged people to share their expertise about the natural world. While Zinniaboy often leans into the realm of gardening, I’ll continue in that general direction but with a slight change of pace, turning our attention to the care and maintenance of lawns. So, Let’s gear up to keep your Kentucky Bluegrass looking great through the summer! Here’s a summary of Zach Schmaedeke’s article for Zone 4 care during those hot months:
Surviving Summer in Colorado: Keeping Your Kentucky Bluegrass Emerald Green

Colorado summers? They’re a wild card! We can swing from scorching 100-degree days to dramatic thunderstorms and even the occasional hailstorm. Now, Kentucky Bluegrass isn’t exactly a desert native, but with a little TLC, it can definitely thrive through the Mile High heat. Here’s your playbook for keeping that lawn looking its best:

Quench its Thirst Deeply, But Not Often:

That dry Colorado air is a moisture bandit! Combat this by watering deeply – aim for an inch or two each week – but do it infrequently. Early morning, before the sun really cranks up, is the ideal time. This encourages those roots to dig down deep, making them more resilient when the mercury rises. Think strong, independent roots that can handle the summer sizzle!

Mow High for a Cool Vibe:

Raise that mower deck! Aim for a cutting height around 3 inches. Taller grass acts like a natural sunscreen for the soil, helping it retain precious moisture and even suppressing those pesky summer weeds. It’s like giving your lawn its own little shade canopy.

Hold the Summer Buffet:

Resist the urge to fertilize heavily during the summer. High doses of nitrogen and intense heat are a recipe for stress, not success. Your turf doesn’t need that extra burden. If you absolutely must feed those “Colorado munchies,” opt for a gentle organic fertilizer with a low NPK ratio, like 5-2-3, to minimize the risk of burn. Think light snacks, not a heavy feast!

Embrace the Summer Siesta:

See some brown patches popping up? Don’t panic! It’s likely just summer dormancy, not the end of your beautiful lawn. Keep up the deep watering and let it rest. As those cooler fall temperatures roll in, that emerald green will make its triumphant return. It’s just taking a little summer nap to recharge.

Summer heat might not be Kentucky Bluegrass’s best friend, but it’s a tough grass! Give it a little extra attention and care now, and you’ll be rewarded with that lush green carpet when the weather cools down. Then, as you said, the real work begins! Cheers

As promised, our featured shrub is Forsythia. Forsythias are vibrant yellow-flowering shrubs that belong to the olive family (Oleaceae). They originate primarily from East Asia, including China and the Korean Peninsula, with one species native to Europe. Named after the Scottish botanist William Forsyth, these deciduous shrubs are known for their early spring blooms and adaptability.

Forsythias thrive in sunny locations and well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. They are hardy from Zone 3 to Zone 8, making them suitable for most of the continental United States.. The best time to plant forsythia is in the fall, while the plant is dormant. They require minimal maintenance, with annual pruning and occasional fertilization to encourage healthy growth. Softwood cuttings, taken in late spring to early summer root easily, allowing for simple propagation. Cheers 

Over the next few posts I will share techniques that will insure your shrubs will thrive even in drought or difficult soil conditions.  The shrub cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) originates from the regions bordering the Black Sea in southwestern Asia and southeastern Europe. It was introduced to cultivation in Europe by the mid-16th century and quickly became popular for its evergreen foliage and ease of growth.

Cherry laurel thrives in a range of conditions, preferring fertile, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is a fast-growing shrub often used for hedging, screening, and as a landscape specimen. Propagation is typically done through cuttings. Numerous cultivars have been developed, varying in size, leaf shape, and growth habit, catering to different landscaping needs. While admired for its ornamental value, it’s important to note that all parts of the cherry laurel plant are toxic if ingested. In some regions, it has become naturalized and is considered an invasive species due to its rapid growth and dense cover, which can outcompete native plants. Cheers

This perennial gem continues to bloom in early spring like magic every season in the small grasses throughout my garden’s landscape. Grape hyacinth (Muscari) is a genus of perennial bulbous plants native to Eurasia, including the Mediterranean basin, central and southern Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia. The name “muscari” comes from the Greek word for musk, referring to its scent. These plants have been cultivated in Europe since the 14th century, with commercial cultivation beginning in the mid-1500’s. I planted these bulbs in rich well draining soil several years ago and they’ve multiplied very rapidly. Enjoy!