Even though fall is months away, it’s not too soon to start working for top-quality chrysanthemums to brighten up borders or foundation plantings. Regardless of the number of plants grown or whether the grower is a mum specialist or not, the aim should be for the best flowers possible. Quality blooms are more appealing in … Read more
The English method for growing “plunge-pit” mums combines the advantages of both outdoor growing and greenhouse culture. I have grown prize mums with this system, with certain modifications, for all varieties which bloom in November and December. Chrysanthemums For Exhibition English gardeners who have greenhouses grow chrysanthemums for an exhibition using a 9- to 10- … Read more
What new annual garden flowers will appear in the next few years? Perhaps that seems like a foolish question. Isn’t it a little early to talk of new things today when those for this past year are not even in bloom? But plant breeders are looking far ahead! New Annuals The new annuals for this … Read more
Do you know there are some only a few inches high that rival the giants in beauty? The rhododendrons most of us know are so immense and magnificent that the first glimpse of a dwarf one is different from anything we might have imagined. Even to those familiar with a number of the smaller kinds, … Read more
Rhododendrons are amenable shrubs. They’ll grow for any one of us, whether we are skilled gardeners or rank beginners, whether we have a thousand acres or the smallest of foundation plantings. But to grow them well, we must understand their requirements. Their native haunts are a clue to the kind of treatment they need in … Read more
Your garden, first of all, should be an expression of yourself. It’s a good idea to study the fundamental rules of landscape architecture and to consult authorities for good garden practices, but insert your thoughts, your taste in design, and plant material—even if you learn by the trial-and-error method. A well-planned perennial border will provide … Read more
No flower runs through a more excellent range of true blue than does the gentian. Since its various species provide bloom from early March to winter snows, it seems strange that gentians are not more often seen in gardens. Although mainly mountain and rock garden plants, some gentians may be found for almost any situation … Read more
For charming appeal, few flowers rival the violet. Its variety of elfin faces, early appearance in spring, when flowers are still an event, and delectable fragrance endears it to all. Viola Odorata Our favorite sweet violet is the English Viola odorata, with its tiny purple or white, yellow-centered blooms. It is listed variously as Violet … Read more
Fall flowering perennials have come into their own in recent years. The latest developments in chrysanthemums and hardy asters are outstanding, and it appears that more riotously colorful things are expected in the future. While this fall garden renaissance has been going on, in some quarters, there has been a tendency to overlook or forget … Read more
Whether you grow gladiolus for show or pleasure, you’ll want prizewinning beauties. So here’s my year-round plan for producing the kind of flowers you’ll be proud to display. Growing Calendar As your interest in growing glads increases, you will find that you can draw up your growing calendar. This is how I plan my gladius … Read more