For gardening purposes, azaleas are classed apart from rhododendrons. Horticulturally, azaleas are a series of rhododendrons characterized by the fall leaf dropping of many of its members and fewer stamens (usually five) than other rhododendrons. Distinctive and beautiful azaleas are so widely propagated that any interested gardener can have azaleas blooming in his garden from … Read more
Every year the 23rd of May marks the anniversary of the birth of Carl Linnaeus, who had a greater impact on botany than almost any other man. Born in southern Sweden, this son of a poor country parson became acquainted with plants at an early age. In fact, his father taught him the names of … Read more
Its lucky tree peonies seldom try to bloom the first year after planting. Most authorities agree they need a season’s vegetative growth, a period of putting down roots and building a powerful woody framework before bearing their extravagant flowers—sound reasoning. The reasoning is sound, but if a reckless youngster develops a bud, would you be … Read more
Every gardener today is looking for perennials that are easy to grow, bloom over a long period, and are, at the same time, practically pest free. The McKenna giant hybrid columbines answer this need on all counts. In 1955, this strain received an All-America Award, the first perennial to be so honored in 18 years. … Read more
A fragrance garden for the Blind, which will be the largest of its kind in the world when completed, is being planned by the Women’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society. Designed by Mr. Harold Klopp of Palatine, Illinois, the plan incorporates some unusual ideas developed after studying existing gardens of this type. Located at … Read more
Multiple-stemmed trees are gaining in popularity. When I look out the window at the seven-stemmed catalpa breaking the view of the garden shed at the back of the yard and adding to the interest of the gate leading into the garden, I understand why. Though I would not deliberately choose a catalpa as a lawn … Read more
Grapes are one of the most rewarding fruit crops for home gardens. They stay manageable —they are easy to care for and harvest, and there is a good selection of varieties for nearly every climate. They ordinarily thrive without much in the way of special sprays, but if it’s perfection you’re after, here are some … Read more
If you overlook the possibility of using native plants in landscaping your home grounds, you are missing a real pleasure. Not only are there wildings suitable for almost any soil and climatic condition, but there are plants that are excellent for borders, beds, rock gardens, hedges, covering walls and trellises, dried arrangements, backgrounds, and shade. … Read more
How nice it would be to simply turn on a sprinkler and let the drops fall, with no concern for water shortages and water bills! But most of us cannot take water for granted and must find ways to apply it to plants and flowers as efficiently as possible. Getting the most for your dollar’s … Read more
Spring is an important time in the garden. It lays the foundation for the coming gardening season and keeps things organized. Below are 9 tips to help you get started with your gardening season. Stretching Guideline 1. A guideline made by stretching a length of cord between stakes will help you plant straight, neat rows … Read more