Category: Outdoor Living

Ageratum Conyzoides is an easy to grow annual flower that is native to Tropical America.  This plant is tall, willowy and will attract butterflies to your garden. It is also known as the “Tall Blue Planet” due to its vibrant blue circular spikes that appear to be suspended on long sturdy stems.  Ageratum is full sun, drought tolerant and will make an excellent addition to any cut floral bouquet.  Start seeds indoors 6 – 8 weeks before the last frost in your region, then simply transplant after danger of frost.

Give your seeds the start they need by implementing grow lights. Grow lights are not a substitution for sun light but can help your plants emerge healthy and strong. When combined with a plant starter tray and growing pellets it will create a successful growing system.  Cheers

Implementing mulch to your garden’s landscape is one way to optimize your growing conditions.    Mulch helps to retain the moisture in your soil and keeps weeds at bay.  The color of mulch can have a warming or cooling effect on soil which can enhance the overall garden yield and will serve as a deterrent for insects.  Cheers

There are numerous aids that assist us in our endeavors to grow fruits and vegetable during the gardening season. Many of these garden products range from grow tunnels, plant protectors, floating row covers, compost tumblers, garden seeders and hoop houses. When selecting a garden helper make sure you conduct the proper research to ensure the product you select will be the appropriate choice to assist in your overall gardening goals. Cheers

One of my personal favorite sown flowers is our featured flower of the month, the Petunia. Petunias are one of the most rewarding plants to grow. They have light silky blooms that appear to float on lush green foliage. The buds bloom into a multitude of colors and patterns and will thrive in the shaded and full sun areas in your garden’s landscape. They are well suited for hot dry conditions and will excel in containers. I prefer to plant petunias in early spring using rich well drained soil as a boarder flower in my garden. Cheers

Reflect on the year that has past. Savor and recall the good. Let go of what remains. We wish you a Happy New Year and many blessings in 2017. Cheers

Our featured flowers of the month come in both annual and perennial varieties.

Poppy

Poppies appear to be delicate but are rather rugged. Poppies have paper like blooms that make a stunning impression, appearing like magic year after year. They make an excellent addition to any outdoor floral setting.

Salvia

My favorite drought tolerant plant is Salvia. It is able to flourish in hot, dry conditions. It exhibits blooms on long sturdy stems from early spring until late fall.

Snap Dragon

The delicate translucent flower appears from May until late fall. Its durability allows it to thrive in many adverse conditions. They are drought tolerant and are a great addition to any cut floral arrangement.

One of my favorite things to do for relaxation is to go fishing. In my youth, my father took me to the James River Bridge in Richmond Virginia to seek out the elusive cat fish. We fished at the crack of dawn or after midnight utilizing a variety of baits. I can remember the profound effect of being introduced to my first glimpse of nature and the calming effect of the water in addition to the sudden exhilaration of the strike. With the pole bent and the line tight, one would yell “fish on”, a statement that to me represents the true meaning of happiness.

Over time I have come to love all types and styles of fishing. I’m often asked “what time of day is the best time to go fishing?” Generally the best time to go is when fish appear to be more active, during sunrise and sunset and also during periods of a full moon. Look for areas where fish are feeding on hatch flies like caddis and mayflies. Perhaps, the best time to go fishing is whenever you can!  Cheers

The first frost of the year generally marks the end of the floral blooming season.  Freezing cold temperatures scorch flowers causing them to die.  Rather than throwing them into the garbage bin, these spent flowers can be added to a compost pile.  The annuals break down creating new life as rich soil for next year’s blooms.   Cheers

Fall is here and winter is on the horizon but we’re still experiencing glorious weather with summer like conditions in zone 4. It has been an amazing record setting fall season that has not only extended the floral blooms but is giving me more time to partake in some of my favorite outdoor activities. From hiking, biking, fishing or just taking a stroll, make sure to take advantage of this magnificent and rare gift from Mother Nature. Enjoy!