Category: Outdoor Living

Happy Mothers Day! It’s time to plant in zone 4 and we’ll start with our featured flower of the month Lobularia. Lobularia is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family, closely related to the genus Alyssum. Originating from Macaronesia and the Mediterranean region, these plants are known for their ability to thrive in rocky, sunny areas along the coast. Lobularia species, which include annuals and perennials, are recognized for their hairy oblong-oval leaves and clusters of fragrant white flowers that form a cruciform shape. The most popular among them, Lobularia maritima, often referred to as sweet alyssum, has been widely naturalized across temperate regions of the world. Cheers

Adhering to the instructions for planting seeds is crucial for several reasons. It ensures that seeds are sown at the correct depth, which is typically three times the size of the seed, a guideline that promotes optimal germination and growth. Proper timing, as indicated on seed packets, is also essential, as some seeds thrive in cooler temperatures while others require warmth. Additionally, following spacing recommendations helps prevent overcrowding, allowing each plant adequate room to grow and access nutrients, leading to a healthier and more bountiful garden. Cheers

Good Things are Happening when you notice Anatis in your garden. The Anatis lecontei, commonly known as the Eyed Ladybird, is a species of beetle that thrives in the grasslands of Europe and parts of Asia. These beetles are beneficial for pest control, as they feed on aphids and other small insects, which are often harmful to plants. Their presence in gardens and farms is highly valued as they help maintain the ecological balance and reduce the need for chemical pesticides. With their distinctive black spots circled by yellow rings, they not only contribute to a healthy environment but also add a touch of natural beauty wherever they reside. Cheers

Phlox, with its vibrant star-shaped flowers, is a genus native to North America, though some species are found in North Asia. These perennials are celebrated for their long blooming period from early spring to late summer. Cultivation of phlox requires well-drained soil and can vary from full sun to partial shade, depending on the species. Gardeners often use the taller varieties for a colorful backdrop in flower beds, while the low-growing creeping phlox is excellent as ground cover. With their rich colors and pleasant fragrance, phlox flowers are a delightful addition to any garden, attracting butterflies and enhancing biodiversity. Cheers

See Johnny Jump

Johnny Jump Ups, also known as Viola tricolor, are charming perennial flowers native to Europe and known for their vibrant and whimsical appearance. These flowers have a rich history of cultivation, having spread across North America since the mid-1800s, often found in fields and along roadsides. They are relatively easy to grow, thriving in temperate climates and adaptable to both full sun and partial shade. Gardeners appreciate Johnny Jump Ups for their ability to self-sow and their compact size, which makes them ideal for container planting, edging beds, or rock gardens. Cheers

Selecting the right wildflower seed blend for your region and zone is crucial for a successful bloom. Regional mixes are tailored to thrive in specific climates and soil types, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable wildflower meadow. For instance, American Meadows offers a variety of seed mixes, including regional, pollinator, and native blends, each designed to flourish in particular growing conditions. It’s important to consider the life cycle of the wildflowers, as annuals, perennials, and biennials will each contribute differently to the garden’s longevity and appearance. By choosing the appropriate mix, you can create a beautiful, biodiverse habitat that supports local wildlife and adds natural beauty to the landscape. Cheers

Aurinia saxatilis, commonly known as Basket-of-Gold, is a perennial plant native to Asia and Europe, thriving in rocky and mountainous habitats. This ornamental plant is part of the Brassicaceae family and is closely related to Alyssum species, which it resembles. It is known for its vibrant yellow flowers that form dense clusters, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, slopes, and garden edges due to its excellent drainage requirements. Aurinia saxatilis is also valued for its ability to adapt to a wide range of soils, although it prefers chalky, sandy, or gritty soil for optimal growth. It can be propagated from seed in the fall or from tip cuttings in late spring and early summer. Gardeners appreciate its low maintenance, pest and disease resistance, and the fact that it has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. To maintain its compact shape, it can be sheared back after flowering, unless seed ripening is desired. Cheers

The California poppy, known scientifically as Eschscholzia californica, is a plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has become naturalized in various parts of the world, including southern Europe, Asia, and Australia. This poppy is recognized for its vibrant orange flowers, which have become an iconic symbol of California, earning it the designation as the state’s official flower. Cultivation of the California poppy is relatively straightforward, as it thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and requires minimal water, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant gardens. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in either fall or early spring, and they prefer full sun exposure. Once established, the California poppy is low-maintenance, although deadheading can encourage a longer blooming period. These resilient plants can create stunning displays of color, particularly when they emerge in masses during super bloom events. Cheers

The Vinca, commonly known as periwinkle, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia. The plant’s name, derived from the Latin “vincire” meaning “to bind” or “to wind,” references its trailing and winding growth habit. Vinca flowers are known for their beauty and low maintenance qualities, making them popular in gardens and landscapes. They thrive in a variety of conditions, tolerating both heat and drought, which makes them a hardy choice for challenging climates. Cultivation of Vinca requires well-drained soil and can be grown from seeds or cuttings. It is best to sow Vinca seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or start them indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date. With their rich history and medicinal properties, Vinca flowers not only add aesthetic value but also have practical uses in pharmaceuticals, particularly in producing anti-cancer drugs.

Transplanting young seedlings into larger pots is a crucial step in gardening that ensures the healthy growth and development of plants. The ideal soil medium for this process is typically a high-quality, soilless potting mix that offers excellent drainage and some nutrients to support the young plants. These mixes are often peat-based, providing a lightweight environment that facilitates root growth and minimizes the risk of waterlogging. When considering the environment for growing seedlings, it’s essential to provide consistent warmth, as soil temperature plays a significant role in plant health. Additionally, maintaining a consistent level of moisture through gentle watering and covering the trays with a plastic dome or wrap can aid in creating an ideal humidity level for germination. Adequate lighting, either from grow lights or a sunny window, is also vital once the seeds have germinated, ensuring that the seedlings develop strong and healthy. By carefully managing these environmental factors, gardeners can significantly improve the chances of their seedlings maturing into robust plants ready for the garden or outdoor containers. Cheers