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
In September the planting of perennials is in full swing in the Middle West. As one expert puts it, “Peonies should be transplanted at 9:00 A.M. on September 15.” Not that the timing is that precise, but by that date, roots are mature and can be divided safely. The sooner this is done, the more … 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
Spring flowering bulbs are the heralds of spring. You can have these flowers in your home a month to 6 weeks ahead of those that will bloom outdoors by planting them in pots and caring for them for a few weeks. Read Catalogs in Selecting Bulbs Catalogs listing these beautiful flowers will be available soon. … Read more
Late flowering daffodils are usually white. Those interested in yellows will probably find none later than the little Narcissus gracilis, present in many gardens where its name is unknown and it is referred to as “the latest yellow daffodil there is.” Flowers are a delicate yellow with a somewhat darker yellow cup, each flower about … Read more
You’ve noticed, I’m sure, how quickly the snow melts away from the south wall of a building. Where the sun’s heat is amplified by reflection, the grass turns green and dandelions often flower in February. But have you thought of utilizing your south wall for something more rewarding than dandelions? Species crocuses are well adapted … Read more
It is time to think about planting lilies again. One friend of mine has discovered that if he sends, say, $20 dollars or more according to how flush he feels, and asks for any odds and ends the lily grower has on hand he gets a wonderful bargain. He does not ask for any named … Read more
Many kinds of bulbs are planted in the fall. A great number of them give spring bloom. Examples are snowdrops, squills, grape hyacinths, crocuses, tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. A few are not hardy in the northern part of our region, but most can winter through, especially with good mulch protection. Select good-sized bulbs if you … Read more
Tigridia pavonia is one of the most popular ornamental flowers in the Americas. Unfortunately, these popular flowers can be trickier than some other bulbs, especially for newcomers. Once you figure them out, you’ll have no problem growing some incredible plants! If you want to learn more or grow some glorious blooms for yourself, look no … Read more
Formerly known as Naegelia in Mexico, Temple Bells are beautiful bell-shaped winter flowers that range in color from cream to red, with large heart-shaped leaves sometimes marked with purple veins and red hairs. These beautiful plants are Temple Bells because their flowers rise above the leaves in late summer and fall and hang down bell-shaped … Read more