Daffodils seem to be the very essence of spring! After a long, cold winter almost any flower or sprig of green would be welcome and daffodils doubly so for their beauty, cheerful color, and fragrance. Then they are so easy to grow and so rewarding. Even a bulb or two will make a good-sized clump … Read more
The September garden, it is true, cannot match the great burst of bloom that comes with the spring, from the first crocus, scillas, and chionodoxa, on through the narcissus and tulips to the glorious splash of color the roses bring in June. Nevertheless, there is much beauty around us – in some gardens more than … Read more
The first damaging frost sometimes arrives during September, in and around New York City it may occur as early as the second or third week of the month, and those of us who live in valleys may be surprised by a frost even earlier than that. My neighbor whose place is on the hill above … Read more
Daylilies Daylilies (below left) can be planted almost any time soil can be worked but August and September are particularly good times as plants are partially dormant. Prepare the soil carefully as plants remain in a position for many years. Spread roots out and plant so that crown is just at, or slightly below, the … Read more
Ten years ago, a sprinkler playing on a lawn or garden indicated that the area was being watered. Today, the same sight might denote that the lawn or garden is receiving fertilizer in the water—two operations combined into one, thanks to the development of soluble fertilizers. Soluble Fertilizers Soluble fertilizers do not differ much from … Read more
Grafting is a fascinating subject. Be it of bone or skin, done by a surgeon, or grafting to save your injured tree or plant, as practiced by the gardener. The objectives are often comparable. Horticultural grafting is a valuable way of propagating plants – tree fruits or roses. Grafting can also help repair injuries brought … Read more
Isn’t it a joy to visit a well-labeled garden where legible nameplates introduce you to each plant? And is there a gardener among us who has not lost a plant or pertinent plant information simply because he relied on his memory? Labels Aren’t Forgetful Legibility, longevity, and good looks are desirable label qualities. These essentials … Read more
Seedtime is practically here. Soon you’ll have a spade, or rotary tiller in action to start the spring job of preparing seedbeds for your vegetables, flowers, or perhaps a new lawn. Perfect Time For Digging Be sure, first of all, that your timing is right. There is no better way to judge soil moisture than … Read more
Basic botany being a study of plants must include a survey of plant environments. Atmospheric conditions have pronounced effects on plants. In fact, many plants are limited by conditions of humidity, temperature, or winds. Gardeners soon learn which ones require wind shelter, light shade, frequent mist spraying on hot days, or maybe a shift to … Read more
Editors Note: Organic gardening soil has been debated for decades. The below article or opinion was penned by F.F. Rockwell over 60 years ago. What organic gardeners do is really worthwhile. However, what they say is often unbelievable. How do you define organic gardening? It’s not about natural pest control. It’s about improving the soil by … Read more