To grow roses in the arid Southwest, irrigation must be practiced. In some sections, such as from Laredo to Brownsville along the Rio Grande or in the Salt River area of Arizona near Phoenix, rose flowers can be had almost the entire year. In these areas, the period of frost danger is seldom more than … Read more
Summary: Growing roses in the south can be very rewarding. A long rose growing season and lots of blooms. But, growing rose bushes, climbing roses, trees, in pots or whatever rose type and form tickles your fancy does come with some “essentials” – Insect Prevention is one of the essentials. When growing roses in the south, careful planting … Read more
Pruning to keep rose plants healthy and productive are matters of importance to all of us who take pleasure in growing roses. Once the why of it all is understood, the how of it is simplified. Why Prune Rose Bushes? The purpose of pruning is to make plants grow as you wish them to. Perhaps … Read more
Summary: Discover top rose types for your garden: hybrid tea, floribunda, hybrid perpetual, climbing, shrub, and dwarf roses. Each has distinct traits, growth patterns, and care needs. We all love roses – who doesn’t? In America, as in most of the world, it is the flower favored above all others, and indeed it is the … Read more
Clematis vines — one of the most beautiful of all our flowering vines is not too difficult with a little “know-how.” Like – Can you over water Clematis? A few years ago, after considerable failure on my part, I searched for advice on growing clematis. I received wide differences of opinion as to various difficulties … Read more
More and more gardens today are emphasizing outdoor living areas. The backyard is where members of the family and friends can gather for rest and play, and considerable attention is given to the furnishings of these areas. All too often overlooked are the “living” drapes or curtains. The plants play an important part because of … Read more
Question: I want to know about – how to force bulbs indoors. Recently, I inherited my grandmother’s bulb forcing containers and vases. I remember her forcing bulbs of grape-hyacinth, daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and amaryllis indoors every Christmas. Unfortunately, my grandmother never shared her bulb forcing secrets. I would like to get an early splash of spring. … Read more
Summary: Bearded iris provides gardens with a rainbow of color from late May and early June. What color combinations will you use? If you want a rainbow in the garden in late May and early June, plant plenty of tall bearded iris. There was a time when the tall bearded iris found its place in … Read more
The “Language of Flowers” is a sentimental phrase that crops up here and there, often to promote Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. However, apart from sentiment or promotion is the distinct vocabulary used by fanciers or specialists for a particular flower like the Iris. Iris Popular Garden Favorites Because the Iris is one of the … Read more
Summary: Bearded Iris put on a colorful show in the landscape. But to enjoy the show bearded Iris needs some attention during the year. Below you’ll find tips on when to trim, feed, plant, divide, and other more to make iris grow and bloom their best! April Clean up around the base of Iris clumps … Read more