The winds of change are blowing and the winter solstice has passed, marking the beginning of winter in zone 4. While many regions in the country are still experiencing summer like conditions, the Rocky Mountains have experienced winter early and often. Arctic like conditions have nestled over the region providing a lot of snow and a white Christmas. With temperatures this chilly it’s time to turn our focus on plans for next season’s garden layout and seed selections. So, as we flock to our favorite winter pass times, let’s remember to stay safe and have fun. Cheers

Create a story book setting throughout your garden with our featured flower of the month, Statice. A Mid-summer mix of long stemmed small papery flowers, Statice are well suited for the sunny side of your garden’s landscape.  It is an all time favorite when added to any cut floral arrangement.  When growing Statice, I prefer to sow seeds in early spring after the last frost. Sow seeds 8 to 10 inches apart in well draining soil for tiny blooms that should reach an approximate height of 16 inches. Cheers

It is undeniable that winter has arrived early in zone 4. If you have not prepared your garden for winter, now is the time.  Your winter check list should include mulching flower and vegetable garden beds with fall leaves or straw.  One of the most important things you can do while temperatures are above freezing is treat perennial flowers, trees and shrubs for pests. Taking these simple steps will enhance your gardens performance for seasons to come. Cheers

As winter approaches, you’ve likely experienced your first frost of the season. Generally the first fall frost indicates the end of the growing season.  Here in zone 4 the last spring frost is April 30^th and the first fall frost occurs October 4^th which translates to a grow seasons that consist of a 156 days. There is a 50% chance of the first frost occurring after the spring and fall dates. Knowledge of your regional grow season will help you accurately assess and plan your garden accordingly. Cheers

One of my favorite perennial flowers to grow is our featured flower of the month the Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus). This flower has hardy fragrant fully doubled fringes that bloom in a plethora of colors. These sparkling blossoms are perfect for the sunny side of your garden.  Its fragrant cluster will attract butterflies and hummingbirds from summer until fall and are ideal for cutting. If you start from seed, I suggest sowing them indoors in late winter or early spring. Cheers