Our featured flower of the month is the Dahlia. Named after a Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, this tuberous root is an absolute pleasure to grow. The Dahlia has bold and vibrant colors and will thrive in a garden setting or make an excellent cut flower for that special bouquet. The bulbs can reach heights of up to 3ft and when planting, be sure to spread the bulbs 18”-24” apart in fertile soil. Cheers
Although it is spring, we are still experiencing snow in zone 4. I will take this wintery weekend to review my landscape plans and change or tweak ideas before planting. All I have to do is look at photos I took of municipal scenes, view natural settings as I drive in my car or just check out my neighbor’s garden. I’m always on the lookout for ideas and inspiration is everywhere! Cheers
Every season has its challenges when it comes to dealing with garden pests. We have several pests in zone 4 ranging from Japanese beetles, potato bugs, cabbage moths, flies and mosquitoes. I like to grow a combination of flowers and herbs in my garden to help keep pests at bay. Not only are these plants attractive they will help you avoid utilizing harmful insecticides. I grow Marigolds which keep certain types of beetles away and I add basil which will keep the flies and mosquitoes in check. By utilizing the right combination of flowers and herbs you are sure to have a pest free environment. Cheers
Spring is here and now is the time to conjure a plan to attract the necessary pollinators to your garden. I use a combination of annual and perennial flowers to cover a 100-200 square foot area in a sunny location with fertile soil. By utilizing drought tolerant favorites like Iceland poppies, Johnny Jump Ups, Zinnia’s and Shasta daisies you are sure to create an essential space in your garden paradise. Cheers
Add some “pop” to your garden by growing our featured flower of the month, the California poppy. Poppies come in a variety of colors, red, cream, orange, gold and pink. These delicate silky crepe-paper petals are supported on green stems with fern like foliage. They are” full sun” and adapt well to cool weather climates. They typically bloom from spring into summer and will perform best when planted in deep rich well draining soil. Cheers
Yesterday was warm and people were wearing short sleeved shirts. Today we are experiencing a typical March snow storm in full force. The much needed moisture will fulfill so many needs on so many levels. Fire fighters are breathing a sigh of relief as immediate fires are dampened and some future fires will not have a chance to ignite on our grasslands or in our Rocky Mountain forests. Water is being added to our reservoirs for drinking water and for irrigation purposes. Our personal gardens will have water and we have hope of nonexistent water restrictions. Ski runs will have more snow providing public recreation adding to our economy.
We always look forward to summer but not without our “Rocky Mountain Rain” in the form of wet and heavy snow. Cheers
The early spring like conditions in the rocky mountain high country has encouraged some of the wild life to seek lower elevations to forage for food. It is truly amazing to witness these majestic creatures in a natural setting. Enjoy!
Spring is on the horizon and it is almost time for one of my favorite flowers to bloom, the Tulip. Tulips are perennial bulbs that will grow in full sun or partial shade. Once they emerge they can be enjoyed in the garden or used in cut floral arrangements. When I grow tulips, I select well drained soil then plant the bulbs six inches deep with the bulb tips facing up. The bulbs should be about six inches apart. Make sure to keep the area weed free and protected from frost by utilizing a layer of mulch in cold winter climates. Cheers
With spring on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to start seeds indoors. By implementing an indoor growing system that consist of a lighting system, grow pellets, seeds and trays, you can get a head start on vegetables and flowers for the upcoming season. There is nothing quite like the thrill of witnessing the germination process. Enjoy!
While most winter time dishes consist of hearty stews and warm casseroles, take a break away from the norm and fire up the grill. Try grilling lobster tails, Alaskan crab legs or wild salmon and you are guaranteed rave reviews.
Tip:
The number one enemy of winter grilling is freezing wind. It has a profound effect on the internal temperature of your grill. Properly shielding your grill and utilizing your grills venting system is a great way of beating the cold. Cheers
