Author Archives: elderberry

I have been trying to make a happy home for a Kalanchoe (pronounced “collin-co-wee”) for years but without much success…and now I know why. Admittedly, I could have solved the problem by doing a bit of reading but no, I … Continue reading →

Clematis is one of the plants that adds vertical elegance to any small garden or to a small perennial bed.  And, since there are various types of clematis that bloom at different times these plants can also add color to … Continue reading →

Roses have a reputation for being fertilizer hogs, but that may not be valid.  I have been growing roses for about eight years.  Taking my cues from professional rosarians and the internet, I gave my roses everything that was recommended … Continue reading →

One of my greatest gardening anxieties is caused by waiting to see if thrips have taken over the roses. To me, there is nothing more insidious or disheartening than a thrip infestation. It usually occurs during spring and summer because … Continue reading →

Here’s another post from our favorite herbalist…HerbDoc. One of my favorite things to do at this time of year is pot up some herbs or shallow rooted veggies in things that aren’t normally considered containers.  These are usually just outside … Continue reading →

If you were to ask me why I enjoy pruning my roses more than any other shrub in the garden I wouldn’t have a good answer. The job is challenging and you rarely get through it without getting scratched and … Continue reading →

Since I was fortunate and did not get flooded last week I spent a few days pruning my hydrangeas…second only to my roses in that they “must be done,” and following the spring-blooming clematis – discussed in my last post … Continue reading →

HerbDoc has some tips for starting your spring seeds…indoors or in the garden. All of the seeds have been ordered and divided into those that can benefit from an early start indoors and those than can be directly sown in … Continue reading →

I (yes, it’s me, HerbDoc) had an interesting question from a beekeeper the other day and thought others might have the same problem.  The beekeeper was looking for a control for late leaf rust which would not harm the pollinators … Continue reading →