Gifts for Gardeners Garden tools, gloves, fertilizer, and plant and bulb gift cards are but a few of the unusual gifts that will be appreciated by gardeners. Prune Fruit Trees Peaches and nectarines should be pruned severely this month. Apricots, apples, and pears require only the removal of dead wood, crossed branches, and water sprouts. … Read more
Holly The Christmas season highlights holly. Although hollies do not grow too successfully in the Midwest, more and more plants are appearing in the gardens of skillful gardeners. Ilex opaca, American holly, is about the only species worth much in the area represented by a line drawn from Springfield, Illinois, to Columbus, Ohio. Spraying the … Read more
Camellias Varieties that bloom at midseason may be selected and planted as the first flowers open and the full crop enjoyed in the garden. Some of the best of the midseason camellias include such old favorites as Alba Plena, Pink Perfection, and Ville de Nantes. Late-flowering varieties may be planted now for the full benefit … Read more
Mulching Be sure plants are completely dormant and the soil frozen to a depth of at least 2″ inches before applying mulches. Wind and sun do more harm than cold. Screen your evergreens wherever practical, especially your flowering kinds: Camellia Azalea Rhododendron Remember also that good drainage in the soil is the most essential item … Read more