Southerners savour this heat-loving vegetable as a main dish and in gumbos. They're excellent boiled, steamed, pickled and deep fried in soups, stews and sauces. Harvest the tender, finger-like seed pods every few days for highest nutritional value, to increase production and keep them from getting tough. The plants have tropical-looking leaves and yellow hibiscus-like flowers. ~~Best grown where summers are long. In colder climates, plants yield fewer pods.
This annual Hibiscus relative has large 7.5cm to 10cm flowers which continuously bloom summer through autumn. Use in containers and edging. The 46cm tall and wide, compact plants thrive in heat and full sun, but tolerate partial shade.~~Start from seed.
Grown for their unusual flowers and brilliantly-colored leaves, these large, tropical shrubs are grown as annuals and greenhouse plants. They thrive in hot and humid summer climates. Use as dramatic accents in the garden or in containers. ~~Grow in full or part sun. Pinch or cut back to control height. Plant cuttings taken in midsummer. In autumn, cut back and pot as houseplants. Grown outside year-round in warm winter climates.
Give these large plants room to spread out. Their bold spikes of rose, white or lilac funnel-shaped flowers wave above 30 to 60cm long leaves. Late spring through early summer, flower spikes reach 60cm long on 60 to 90cm stems. Excellent background plants. Use in fresh or dried flower arrangements. In cooler northern climates, need protection and mulching over winter. Remove faded flowers. Long root systems make plants difficult to get rid of once established, so plant where they are confined. Easy to divide between October and March.
Maple trees include a broad spectrum of types, sizes, shapes and foliage. They are evergreen or deciduous, shrubby or lofty, with deeply lobed or finely cut leaves. All types have two-winged seeds that look like wing nuts from the hardware store. Grown over most of the United States, only excessive heat, dryness or winter cold prevents them from thriving. The large trees provide dense shade and their roots take water and nutrients from other plants, so don't plant close to them. Water deeply so roots grow down. Prone to leaf scorch, caused by insufficient watering. Red, purple, variegated or fancy-leaved varieties need partial shade for best color. Prune in autumn. Easy to transplant.
One of the hardiest, carefree perennials for hot and dry locations, AchilleaÆs flattish clusters bloom generously in many colours. Excellent cut and dried flowers. Fire retardant and somewhat drought-tolerant once established. Their grey-green leaves are aromatic. Need full sun, but tolerates most soils with good drainage. DonÆt over-water or over-fertilize as plants grow weak steams that make poor dried flowers. Deadhead to encourage further bloom. Start from seed or division.
The grassy swordlike leaves of the two species of Aconus thrive at the edges of ponds in shallow water or bogs. Flowers are interesting, but not showy, yet are often mistaken for Irises.They spread slowly by fragrant underground rhizomes. Excellent in moist or waterlogged situations, best in fertile soils in full or part sun.
The fleshy rosettes of these evergreen succulents form living sculptures of bright green, bluish green, or purple. Clusters of yellow, pink, or white flowers bloom in spring or summer. Grow them in rock gardens, or display in patio containers or a sunny spot indoors. Tolerate light frost, but require good drainage. Start new plants from cuttings.
Adaptable and easy to care for, these natives of southern Africa have long-stalked clusters of blue or white flowers and glossy, strap-like leaves. Excellent cut flowers. Grow outdoors in mild climates or indoors in pots in colder regions. Plant in large masses, drifts or near pools. Drought-tolerant once established, but for best blooms give plenty of moisture. In hot summer areas, plant in partial sun. Like loamy earth, but tolerate dense soils.~~Divide every 5 to 6 years, when plants become crowded and flowering decreases.
These bushy perennials look like their cousins, mint and salvia. Once established, they thrive in hot, dry sites, offering a late summer display of flower spikes in soft purples, blues, or yellows. Some varieties are more tender, and need the shelter of a south- or west-facing wall. Hardier varieties are A. foeniculum, A. rugosum, and A. urticofolium. Drought-tolerant. Require good drainage. Grow many varieties, such as A. mexicana, from seed, divide established plants in early spring, or take root cuttings from young, soft stems. Watch for mildew in hot dry summers.
These mostly large-sized perennials grow in a rosette of succulent, spiny, sharply pointed leaves from which tequila is made. Rope, food, soap and other products are also made from the fibersand pulp. Some send up a tall flower spike annually, while others bloom only every 30 to 40 years. Several types die after flowering, only to develop new plants from suckers at their base. Native to the warm arid parts of the Americas, these plants need excellent drainage. Often grown in containers. Fire-retardant and drought-resistant. Give partial shade in the hot, dry desert. Protect from frost and soaking winter rains.
Blooming in late summer and early autumn, this large group of perennials provides colour when other plants have stopped flowering. Several species are cold-hardy wildflowers, native to the eastern United States, many of which have become popular only recently. These have whorled leaves and showy, small flowers in clusters.~~Start by seed or division. Pinch back during the growing season to encourage fuller growth and more flowers.
Grown for their abundant clusters of small, fluffy flowers, Ageratums lend a soft, dainty effect in colours that range from deep blues to lavender, white to pink. The many-named dwarf varieties form mounds, and are good for edging, mass planting and containers. Taller varieties make good cut flowers. ~~Plants generally bloom from early summer through autumn if deadheaded. To prolong bloom in hot summer areas, plant in partial shade. All are sensitive to cold, so plant well after the last frost. In mild winter areas, plant in late summer for autumn flowering.
Excellent with Hostas, Ferns and many spring-flowering bulbs, this fast-growing ground cover has glossy leaves often and tinted with purple, cream and pink. The short spikes of small flowers bloom blue, purple, white or pink. Plant between rocks or stepping stones in woodland and rock gardens or in containers. Can be invasive.~~Best in full sun or partial shade with plenty of moisture. Tolerates dry conditions once established. Evergreen in mild winter areas. Plant in autumn or spring.
A classic old-fashioned flower, Hollyhocks are informal yet elegant. The 1.5m to 2.4m tall flower spikes have 7.5cm to 15cm wide, saucer-shaped, single, semi-double or double flowers. Butterflies love them. Plant in the back of a flower border or against a wall to show off their strong vertical lines. For smaller gardens, use dwarf varieties that grow 90cm to 1.5m tall. ~~Technically biennial, many modern varieties bloom the first year from nursery plants or from seed if started early indoors. ~~Stake tall plants. Protect from strong winds, slugs and snails. The large, hairy leaves are prone to rust, spider mites and anthracnose. Need good air circulation.
These are valued for their striking light green, downy, rounded leaves and airy clusters of small, star-like, yellow-green flowers. Easy-to-grow, these 10 to 15 cm perennials are best in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Excellent foliage plant in borders, rock gardens and woodland gardens. Excellent cut flowers. ~~Self-sows, or start by seed or division.
There are about 30 species of the short-lived Alder and many cultivars. Most of these deciduous trees like colder climates and moist or wet soils along streams and ponds. Use in grove plantings or as single, multi-trunked trees. Spring flowers are followed by toothed leaves and cone-like fruits. Roots can be shallow and invasive. They grow rapidly in infertile and poorly drained soils. Prune in winter to remove dead or damaged limbs.
Related to Onions, Garlic and Leeks, grow Ornamental Onions for their dense clusters of flowers which look like lollipops. Height varies from 15cm to 1.5m. Use for rock gardens, naturalizing and flower borders. Smaller-growing varieties are good in containers. Excellent cut flowers - leaves smell like onions. Use fully-ripened stalks in dried arrangements. Many are sun-loving and hardy to zone 4 if mulched in winter, theyÆre easy to grow.~~Plant bulbs in autumn no more than 5cm to 10cm deep, depending on bulb size. Prefer sandy soil, as bulbs rot without excellent drainage. For most species when foliage yellows after flowering gradually withhold water. Susceptible to all pests of edible Onions, but usually trouble free.
Plum, Apricot, Nectarine, Peach, Cherry and Almond trees are all part of this tasty group. Not only can you eat the fruits of the several deciduous varieties, but most of the trees in this group offer a spectacular show of spring hues. With their attractive foliage and bark, some look good year-round. Deciduous trees and shrubs named "Flowering" are ornamental only. Use the non-fruiting evergreen types as hedges, screens or shade and street trees. Most won't tolerate waterlogged soil, heat or dryness.~~Prone to several pests and diseases, so keep them healthy and vigorous. Spray to control pests and diseases when needed. Prune after flowering to shape and remove diseased and dead branches. Transplant in spring.
There are more than 300 species of Aloe, plus many hybrids, ranging in height from 15cm to 4.7m Native to arid lands, they require little water or care. Juice from the thick, pointed, sharply toothed leaves of some species is used in medicines. However, all Aloe leaves are toxic if eaten, so grow plants away from children. The green or lightly blotched leaves usually grow in compact rosettes or occasionally spirals. Their lilylike flowers bloom atop tall spikes. Some types bloom every month. Drought-tolerant, they prefer frost-free climates and dislike wet winters. Easy to care for, as long as they get good drainage and enough sun. Remove flower stalks and old leaves after flowering.
This popular florist's choice makes an excellent perennial plant in zones 7-10. Although species and hybrids vary in hardiness, all plants produce large clusters of azalealike flowers in bright orange, yellow, pink, lilac, rose, milky white, or red. ~~Thrive in deep, cool, moist soil, but tolerate well-draining clay soils. Watch for fleshy but easily breakable roots when planting. Slow to establish. Eventually form large clumps which should not be disturbed. Divide with care in spring, and plant 15cm to 20cm deep. May cause skin irritation.
Used in classic Victorian gardens to create geometric carpet patterns, these low-growing, colourfully leafed and flowered, bedding plants can be sheared into shapes. Bright yellow, red and pink markings on leaves can clash with other plants. Best with other bright colours or in window boxes or pots. Flowers are minuscule and plants are usually sheared before the flowering stage. Perennial in warm, frost-free areas, they like full sun. They're treated as annuals in cold areas, where they overwinter as houseplants.
So many varieties in so many colours and sizes! The large showy flowers come in shades of golden, pink, rose, yellow and orange, at times with colourful markings or double-petals. Some flowers grow to 30cm across. The state flower of Hawaii, the tropical Chinese Hibiscus is often grown in containers. All are heat-loving, and flower during the warmest months of the year. ~~Prune to control shape and fertilize monthly during the growing season. Protect from wind. Insects and diseases can cause problems.
Attractive to hummingbirds, the dainty bell-shaped flowers range from white to pink to red to green. Long-lasting cut flowers. Compact clumps of evergreen leaves come in light, tinted variegations to chocolates to deep greens to rich purples. Shapes range from lobed or smooth-edged to wavy leaves. Use as edging, in rock gardens or perennial borders.~~Best in partial shade in hot seasons. Divide for new plants or sow seed.
The small, ball-shaped, papery flowers bloom nonstop in colours that include red, pink, lavender, white and orange. Use in edging, in beds or containers. Excellent cut flowers for fresh and dried arrangements. Varieties growing 60 to 90cm tall are better for cutting. ~~Dwarf varieties, from 25cm to 30cm tall, form low, mounding plants. Plants thrive in heat and full sun. ~~Water moderately, and avoid overwatering. To harvest for drying, pick when flowers are fully open, then hang upside down in a dry place out of direct sunlight.
Grown for their brilliant, often multi-coloured, leaves and dense tassels of tiny flowers, use these large-growing annuals as background plants or as a dramatic point of interest. The long-lasting flowers grow in long, erect or pendant clusters in maroon, crimson and various shades of green. Excellent for cutting. Sun- and heat-loving plants are 90cm to 1.5m tall with large, lance-shaped leaves, blotched or splashed with scarlet, orange, yellow, purple or bronze. 30 to 60 cm tall varieties are also available. With adequate moisture, tolerates poor soils. ~~If picked when tender, leaves can be cooked like spinach. Seeds have a high protein content, and are eaten like grain.~~Soil must be above 70║ F for seeds to sprout. In areas with long, warm summers, sow in ground. Elsewhere, start early indoors, and transplant after weather is. After flowering, plants transplant poorly. Give plants plenty of room - space about 60cm apart.
Silvery white petals that make up the buttonlike flower heads and their woolly white or silvery leaves give these hardy perennials the common name of pearl or pearly everlasting. Excellent fresh or dried flowers. Cut just before flowers mature. Plant in well-drained sunny location where their light colour can contrast with darker foliage or brighter flowers. Most tolerate poor soil, heat and drought.~~Divide clumps every three or four years.
There are three types of Anemones -- autumn-blooming, spring-flowering and one for rock gardens. All have cup-shaped, single and double blossoms of many colours. flowers are a mainstay of the spring garden. Excellent cut flower. The popular Japanese Anemones flower in autumn in borders and naturalized in clumps. Use the taller, less hardy, sping-flowering types for bedding, containers or forcing into winter bloom indoors.The woodland and rock garden types will also naturalize beneath other early flowering trees, shrubs or bulbs.~~Plant in autumn where hardy, or in spring in northern climates. Protect from wind and afternoon sun. Don't disturb roots, except to divide, as larger plants have larger flower. Water in dry summers. Roots rot in soggy soil so mulch after ground has frozen.
Out of the low, fernlike leaves of this woodland plant rise graceful wiry stems supporting nodding flowers. The one species looks similar to the Japanese Anemone and starts from an underground rhizome. Prefer cool, moist conditions and humusy soil. Plant in a protected, sheltered location away from hot, drying winds.
Their early blooming daisy- or poppy-like flowers and ferny foliage are a mainstay of the spring garden. Plant the hardy Windflower (Anemone blanda) in woodland gardens, rock gardens or naturalize beneath other early flowering trees, shrubs or bulbs. Use the taller, less hardy Poppy-flowered Anemone (Anemone coronaria) for bedding, containers or forcing into winter bloom indoors. The perennial Snowdrop Anemone (Anemone sylvestris) is a vigorous spreader and therefore good in loose soils. Excellent cut flower. ~~Plant in autumn where hardy, or in spring in northern climates. Soak tubers before planting to speed growth.
In cooking, use whole or ground seeds and dry or fresh fern-like leaves. Unlike many other long-lived herbs, plants must be replaced yearly. The flattened, yarrow-like flowers attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies.~~Sow in place. Quickly goes to seed, so sow some every few weeks in spring for a longer supply.
Similar in appearance to plants from the Datura genus, this group includes five evergreen species from South America. Train them as eye-catching shrubs or trees to showcase their large leaves and showy, pendulous tubular flowers. Watch for poisonous blooms and seeds. Protect plants from wind.
Most of these are dramatic multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees They're grown for their large, divided, almost fern-like leaves, which create an almost tropical effect. Stems and leaves often have distinct and prominent spines. Smaller types are good woodland ground covers. All have masses of small, creamy white or greenish, summer flowers that become juicy, purplish black fruit that attracts birds. Use as an accent in large gardens or borders. Tolerate most soils and conditions.~~Remove suckers to form tree shape.
Named for the Latin word for angel, this was once prized for its angelic healing properties. Today it provides a different kind of tonic: The seeds flavour gin, vermouth, chartreuse and other liqueurs, and the leaves are used to prepare hop bitters.~~A short-lived perennial that usually dies or declines after setting seed, Angelica is often grown as a biennial. It may grow as tall as 2.7m, with stout stems and slightly gawky flower heads. Angelicas like moisture and will prosper by the water. They do best in light shade, although they will grow in full sun if soil is kept moist. Propagate from seeds planted in late summer or early autumn.
Red, purple, green or yellow tubular flowers tower above clumps of smooth, leathery, sword-shaped leaves. The woolly flowers on these Australian natives are curved at the tips like kangaroo paws, giving them their common name. Hummingbirds flock to these striking blooms. Long-lasting cut flowers. Need little water, good drainage and sun. Cut spent flower spikes to ground. Water during spring and growing or blooming season. Tolerate only a little frost. Prone to fungus diseases, snails and slugs
Sun-loving evergreen or deciduous perennials that bloom so prolifically plants may exhaust themselves and die. Often lacy foliage is aromatic, especially when bruised. Some species of Anthemis are weedy. Flowers are good for cutting.~~Plant in neutral or slightly alkaline soil. Increase perennials by division in early autumn or spring. Sow seeds in early spring for annuals and in late summer for biennials. Stake seedlings, which are easily damaged by wind and heavy rain.
Snapdragons live up to their nameùwhen pinched at the base, their spicy cinnamon-scented flowers open and close like jaws snapping. Unsurpassed for vivid colour when used in masses or edging, they are also good for vertical spot colour. The flower spikes bloom from bottom to top and make excellent cut flowers. ~~Available in many types and colours, dwarf varieties grow from 10cm to 23cm tall, intermediate varieties from 30cm to 60cm and tall varieties from 76cm to 90cm tall. Double-flowering forms have open-faced Azalea-like blossoms. Colours include bronze, burgundy, carmine, crimson, orange, scarlet, pink, rose, yellow and white lilac. Seeds and plants come in single or mixed colours. ~~In warm winter areas, plant in autumn for winter and early spring blooms. Watch old plants survive winter to flower again in spring. Pinch young plants to encourage branching and increased flowering. Stake taller varieties. Plant new plants in locations different from the old ones.
Elegant, hardy flowers with backward-projecting tubular petals, called spurs, that bear nectar and attract hummingbirds. The many species and hybrids come in a variety of colours and bicolours that look good in borders, cottage and woodland gardens. Combine well with Campanula, Delphiniums, Dicentra and ferns. ~~Plants hybridize and reseed freely. Cut back old stems to encourage a second bloom. Easy care once established. Won't tolerate soggy soil. Protect from wind. Watch for leaf miner and Columbine borer.
Tough foundation plants, windbreaks, hedges and screens, these cone-bearing evergreens thrive in wet soil and full sun. Use the dwarf types in rock gardens. Their flat needle-like leaves are fragrant. Protect from winter sun and cold winter winds in northern climates. Prone to snow and ice damage. Prune to control size and shape and to remove damaged or diseased branches. Do not prune beyond green growth, as you may leave a permanent hole in the foliage. Watch for spider mites in dry climates.
A most unusual member of the Cypress plant family found above timberline in the mountains near Vladivostock, Russia. Extremely hardy. Does best in well drained, moist soils.
Commonly called Manzanita, which means "little apples" in Spanish, these ground covers, shrubs and small trees are often seen in the wild on the West Coast. Their dense clusters of drooping, urn-shaped, pink or white flowers develop into bright red, apple-shaped berries that attract birds. The mahogany-like bark twists and gnarls attractively. Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, once established. Prefers well-drained, infertile, sandy soils, but tolerates heavy soils. Start from autumn cuttings or plant small wild shrubs, as large specimens are difficult to transplant. Pinch to control growth.
Only one type of these feather palms, the Queen Palm, is commonly grown. The straight trunk and 3 to 4.5m long fronds that look like ostrich feathers give it a fluffy, graceful elegance. Shelter from strong winds to prevent fronds from breaking. Remove dead leaves for best appearance. Reduce water when temperature drops.
These annuals and perennials grow in thick mats or tufts between stepping stones or trail creepers down stone walls. Their preference for sandy soil gives them their common name, Sandwort. Use in carpet bedding or rock gardens. Small white flowers appear in late spring and summer. In Alpine conditions, flowers are red or purple. Can be invasive.
The grass-like leaves of these summer-blooming perennials form spreading tufts of foliage. The sturdy flowering stems end in ball-shaped clusters of tiny flowers. Good in rock gardens, edging and borders.~~Start by seed or division in well-drained soil. They rot in wet or rich soils. Remove old flowers to prolong bloom. Protect from afternoon sun in warmer climates. Fertilize once a year.
This hardy vegetable grows best with a long, warm, growing season and cold winters which help form the large, flavourful roots. For sauce (often used with meat), grate peeled roots, and mix with white or distilled vinegar, salt to taste. Refrigerate, and it keeps for a few weeks.~~In spring, start as root cuttings. Plant nearly horizontal, 5cm to 7.5cm deep, with large end of root up. Give plenty of water, but donÆt fertilize heavily. Harvest after several weeks of hard frost for best flavour. Watch for all pests that effect HorseradishÆs cousin, Cabbage.
The ornamental types of these plants are grown for their striking, silver-grey, aromatic foliage, which is often used in flower arrangements. The leaves of two other types are used as the cooking spice tarragon. For excellent cut flowers, use only the unusual, moisture-loving A. lactiflora, which has striking blooms. These mostly drought-tolerant plants need only average-to-poor soil and full sun for healthy, compact growth. Rich soils create lanky, short-lived plants.~~Prune lightly in spring to maintain compactness and to promote new growth. Start by cuttings or division.
Aruncus is an elegant perennial with spikes full of tiny white flowers and clumps of finely-textured green leaves. It often graces wet mountainsides with masses of its white plumes. Grow the larger species along streams, in moist woodlands or in the back of perennial borders. Plant smaller species in rock gardens or in the front of perennial borders.~~Start by division.
Musical instruments are made from the reed-like stems of these 2.4m to 6m tall grasses. The thick stems and broad leaves have a bold tropical look. Where winters are warm, their feathery, plume-like flowers open reddish changing to white. Invasive in warm winter climates so give it lots of room to spread out. Think twice before planting as some types have escaped in parts of southeastern US. Prefer abundant moisture and rich soil. ~~In cold winters, mulch heavily. Remove dead stems in spring, and new stems will resprout from thin underground rhizomes.
A ginger-like scent comes from these 18 to 20cm perennials when their lush, heart-shaped leaves or spreading roots are cut or bruised. Flowers bloom in spring. Wild Ginger makes an ideal ground cover in woodland gardens in partial shade with rich, moist, cool soils. ~~Start by seed or divide the underground roots. Protect from slugs and snails.
A select few of these perennials and shrubs are grown as garden plants. Their brightly-coloured, unusually shaped flowers attract butterflies and make excellent cut flowers. Blooms become large, pointed seed pods that are used in dried flower arrangements. Mature pods split open exposing seeds tufted with silky hairs. ~~Start by seed or root cuttings. Easy to grow in full sun.
Decorative and tough, Mountain Ashes' scattered flower clusters yield colourful hanging fruits. The red, yellow, orange, pink and white fruit is a treat for birds. In autumn, their fernlike foliage turns orange to red. Best in northern climates, they tolerate wind, cold and dry weather. Don't like summer heat. Good specimen or shade trees, though fruit can cause litter. Some are difficult to transplant. Prone to various diseases, canker, fireblight and borers, especially on plants under stress. Stressed by alkaline soils, compacted soils and air pollution.
Considered a delicacy by the ancient Greeks and todayÆs gourmet, Asparagus are low in calories and high in flavour and vitamin A. With care, plants produce abundant spears for 25 years or more. But you have to wait until the third year for your first harvest. This give plants the time to grow roots that will keep producing spears. Unharvested, their fern-like foliage grows 1.5m to 1.8m high and can be used as an ornamental summer screen or along a fence where there is sun. Female plants produce berries that turn bright red in late summer and autumn. Foliage turns yellow in autumn and brown in winter. A perennial vegetable, plant 1-year-old crowns - clusters of buds and thick fleshy roots - in spring. In warm parts of the Northwest and the South, and in California, use varieties recommended for mild winters. Let plants grow the first year. In the second year, snap or cut off a few spears per plant just above ground level. Choose spears thicker than a pencil and 18cm to 25cm long. Year 3 or later, harvest lasts 6 to 8 weeks, until spears are less than 6mm diameter. After harvest, keep well-watered until autumn. Fertilize in spring before spears appear and in early summer after harvest with high nitrogen formula. Watch for Fusarium root rot, rust, thrips, beetles and aphids.
Offering masses of daisy-like blooms, use plants from this large, diverse group for formal borders, and rock and natural gardens. The low-growing Alpine Aster blooms in spring. More common types are hybrids of New York Aster, which bloom in late summer and autumn when many perennials are finished. Best in full sun, but partial shade in hot southern climates. ~~Feed sparingly to avoid lush growth susceptible to mildew and diseases. All Aster frikartii varieties are somewhat resistant to mildew. Plant in well-drained soil to avoid root rot. For bushier plants with more flowers where growing season is long, pinch back in spring when shoots are 15cm and later in early summer. Divide plants at least every other year before flowering decreases and inner shoots of clumps lose vigor. Replant only healthy outer divisions.
These neat mounding shrubs are tender Mediterranean natives, grown for their long blooming daisylike flowers. Blooms have prominent centre buttons. Foliage is silvery. In the right conditions, they're tough, but be sure they have good drainage.
The finely divided foliage and showy flower plumes make them one of the best perennials for shady locations. The many varieties bloom in colours from soft white to clear pink and intense red. Flowers and leaves make excellent cut flowers and foliage. ~~Good in pots and tubs, they are also grown near pools. In shade gardens, grow with Columbine, Meadow Rue or Plantain Lily. Tolerate full sun in cool summer climates with abundant moisture. In these areas, combine with Peonies, Delphiniums and Iris.~~Cut back flower stalks after flowering. Every 3 to 4 years, as plants are beginning to grow in spring, divide rootstock. Always keep soil moist.
One of the few landscape shrubs that thrive without direct light, Aucuba enlivens shady areas near buildings with its shiny, dark green leaves. Under dense trees, its roots compete successfully with other roots. It also tolerates pollution and performs well in containers. Several variegated cultivars add a touch of brightness to dark locations. If planted near a male plant, female plants produce scarlet berries from autumn into spring, though they are often hidden by the leaves. Water during growing/blooming season, but don't make soil too soggy. Prune in late winter or spring to restrict growth.
Use these perennials with their intensely-coloured, Rose-like flowers and dense mounds of rounded, green leaves in mixed perennial borders or cutting gardens. Double, semi-double or single blooms are bright yellow, white or red. Best in northern climates in full sun with well-drained, organic soil and ample moisture. Evergreen foliage in warmer climates. Use taller plants in borders. ~~Start by division or seed.
One of the most popular types are Azaleas, but the species, varieties and hybrids number in the thousands. Rhododendrons can be evergreen or deciduous, and they vary from under 60cm up to 24m in height. Generally found in clustered bouquets, they come in a variety of shapes - funnel to bell-shaped, small and large. They range from the whitest of whites to cream yellows and from flaming oranges to fiery reds and the deepest of purples.~~When you buy plants, you may see a 2- or 3-number American Rhododendron Society code on the sticker. The 2-number codes indicate flower quality, then shrub quality, with 5 as highest and 1 as poor. Check to be sure what the 3-number codes stand for, as the ARS hasnÆt yet set this in stone. Plant in acid soils. Mulch to protect shallow roots, but never cultivate the soil there. Protect from wind, salt spray and afternoon sun in hot climates. Watch out for root weevils and wilt diseases. Proper location and care will help reduce problems.
Grow these flowering, rank-growing, perennial succulents as ground covers or indoors in a window garden. They like a sunny location, though they prefer shade in the Southwest. Their many low-growing branches get up to 60cm long. The fleshy leaves are oval or heart-shaped. Keep soil dry in winter.
One of the easiest and most reliable perennials, it's aptly named for its unusual flower buds which are shaped like hot air balloons. The long blooming, blue, white or pink, star-shaped flowers appear from early summer through early autumn. Tough, heat-tolerant and long-lived, light bluish-green foliage forms neat clumps.~~Excellent cut flowers if ends are seared with a flame after cutting. ~~Start easily by seed, or with difficulty by division of the thick roots in spring. Protect roots from gophers. Often one of the last perennials to emerge in spring, be sure to mark its spot to avoid digging up or damaging the shoots and roots.
Bees love the inconspicuous white flowers on this herb, and, appropriately, Melissa is Greek for bee. Use Lemon BalmÆs deliciously lemon-scented leaves in tea or fruit salads, and to spice up fish dishes. Try dried leaves in sachets or potpourri. ~~Hardy and easily-grown in herb gardens or pots. Fast-spreading, it has become naturalized in some areas as it sows itself. Shear back often to keep it neat. Grow from seed or root divisions.
This is a group of clumping bamboos. Young stalks (culms) typically have a white or grey powder below the nodes, plus many branches. Leaves are checkered or marked with a grid of small squares. They come from China and the Himalayas.
These graceful plants of the shady, moist forest enhance a wild woodland setting with pale green, maple-like foliage and tall stems topped with clusters of flowers in late spring and summer. Glossy green or red berries appear summer to autumn. Try these plants also in mixed borders and waterside plantings, but make sure they receive at least light shade. Give them a humus-rich soil and keep it damp. Frost-hardy. Divide the rhizomes in spring, or harvest the fully-ripe berries in autumn, strip off the pulp, and sow seeds in a moist shaded bed where they won't be disturbed. If not sown in the autumn when they ripen, seeds aren't likely to sprout. All species are highly poisonous, though A. spicata was once used to treat a range of ailments including St. Vitus' dance.
Excellent for barrier plantings, this huge group of popular thorny shrubs is attractive year-round. The especially hardy deciduous varieties have brilliant autumn colour. The evergreen species produce purple or blue-black berries that attract birds. B. thunbergii has bright red berries that last on branches into winter. Both types have plentiful yellow spring flowers and yellow inner bark and wood. Easy to grow and transplant, they tolerate many soils and climates. However, they don't like waterlogged soil. Rust on Bayberries is passed to wheat crops, so choose rust-resistant varieties such as B. thunbergii. Remove dead stems, and prune to shape after flowering. Cut back so inner branches don't die.
Valued for their airy spring flowers and shiny evergreen to deciduous leaves, use these tough, low-growing perennials for shady flower borders, woodland and rock gardens and containers. Excellent, slow-spreading ground cover under large trees and shrubs. Colourful leaves are bronzy-pink in spring, green in summer and bronze in autumn. Spikes of flowers bloom red, white, pink or yellow in spring. Long-lasting cut flowers. Drought resistant once established. Deer resistant.~~Divide in spring or autumn. Cut back in late winter or early spring to encourage spring flowers and new growth.
This excellent rock garden perennial forms mounds of grey-green foliage from which intense yellow flowers rise. Also used in the front of borders or on top of walls. Full sun, good drainage and lean soil promote long life and compact growth. ~~Starts easily by self-sowing, seed, cuttings or division. Prune lightly after bloom to encourage dense growth. Protect from afternoon sun in hot southern climates. Hot, humid weather or extremely cold winters can kill plant.
This large group of perennials has showy, Daisy-like flowers with double rows of thread-like petals. Blooms in white, lavender and pink. Most need full sun and good drainage. Best in rock gardens. Some species are invasive. Fleabane tea is used by some Native Americans to relieve colds and stiffness in joints.~~Start by division or seed. Remove old flowers to lengthen bloom. Cut back after flowering to prevent legginess and to rejuvenate growth.
Easy- and fast-growing, nutritious and versatile in cooking, beans come in many varieties. Snap Beans need only a short growing season, and are rich in vitamins A and C, plus calcium and iron. Harvest before beans form. Eat Shell Beans fresh when beans fill out pods, but arenÆt full size. Dry and store beans once pods shrivel. Many varieties can be eaten fresh or dried for storage. Support long, twining vines of Pole Beans on string tied between stakes, on a trellis or fence. Self-supporting, 30 to 60cm tall Bush Beans produce fewer beans than Pole types, but can be grown in containers.~~Most like warm weather, so plant long after last spring frosts. Seedlings transplant poorly. Treating seeds with a legume inoculant increases harvest. Plant Snap Beans in warm soil at 2-week intervals, and harvest crops all summer. Keep moist. With all beans, watch for Mexican bean beetle and downy mildew. DonÆt water overhead or work with wet plants to avoid spreading leaf diseases. Pollinated by bees, so spray any chemicals at dusk when bees are gone.
This bushy, 60cm to 1.2m tall plant wears many hatsùfrom tea herb to cut flower to bee, hummingbird and butterfly treat. Its 10cm -long leavesÆ fragrance blends mint and basil. Northern gardeners have the greatest success with this moisture-lover. Southern and western gardeners must fight mildew. A vigorous spreader, Bee Balm (also known as Horsemint and Oswego Tea), is well-suited to the meadow garden. ~~Cut back after flowering and divide every 2 to 3 years. Sold in containers during the growing season.
Beech's common name comes from a Saxon word meaning book. The smooth, light grey bark was once used like paper, and the wood used to make tablets. The trees lofty, rounded crowns reach 15 to 30m tall and wide. Their shade is so dense that other plants cannot grow beneath them. Spring flowers are followed by triangular nuts with edible kernels that birds enjoy. In autumn, leaves turn amber to bronze. Prefer acid soil, and won't tolerate salt. Prune in summer and early autumn to shape and to remove dead limbs and basal sprouts. Let trees' own fallen leaves act as mulch, or mulch within dripline to protect shallow roots and maintain cool moist soil. Generally pest-free, they're prone to Beech scale and, in the Northeast, a fungus called Nectria. Aphids cause some dripping honeydew.
Grown as annuals, perennials and bulbs, Begonias are valued for their bright, colourful, waxy flowers. Annual varietiesùWax, Fibrous or Bedding Begoniasùare low-growing and bloom continually. Covered with small white, red, or pink flowers with green or bronzy red foliage, use as edging and in masses, window boxes and containers. Wax Begonias can take full sun, but do best in partial shade in hot summer areas. Bring indoors in the autumn as a house plant. A hardy species, Begonia grandis, thrives in partial shade. ~~Tuberous Begonias don't flower as fully as Wax, but bloom larger. Flowers resemble camellias, roses, carnations, poppies or daffodils. They come in pink, apricot, yellow, orange or white, with single, double, ruffled, bicolour, crested and fringed petals. To add bright colour in shade, place them in containers or bedding. Use pendulous forms in hanging baskets. ~~All types need moisture, so don't let soil dry out. Avoid wetting foliage, and provide good air circulation to prevent leaf mildew. Watch for aphids, spider mites, scale, slugs, snails and whiteflies. Lift tubers in autumn and store.
With more than 300 species of annuals, biennials and perennials, Bellflowers are one of the most popular garden perennials. They range from diminutive, mounding rock garden plants to 1.8m spikes of colour. Their showy bell-shaped flowers are commonly found in clear whites, cool blues, rich violets and lavenders, and occasionally soft pink. Use short mounding species in rock gardens and containers and the taller species in perennial borders and for cut flowers. Many species thrive in full sun or partial shade, but most need partial shade in hot season climates. Pest problems are rare. Mulch against summer heat. Remove faded flowers to prolong bloom. Water during growing/blooming season.
The bright, button-like daisy flowers are often seen in lawns and are used by children for daisy chains. Blooms in pink, white or red to about 15cm high. Excellent for edging and flower borders, as companion plants with spring bulbs or in containers and rock gardens. ~~Although perennial, plants are usually grown as annuals or biennials. Foliage is low and small leaves are often hairy. Many varieties, including double-flowered types, are available. Can be invasive and often self sow and naturalize. Thrive with plenty of moisture. Need partial shade in hot areas. ~~Sow seed in early autumn or spring or buy in containers.
With their showy early bloom and excellence as a ground cover, these are favourites for moist shaded areas near pools and streams. Growth of the thick clumps and colonies slows in full sun. Leaves are thick, wavy and cabbage-like below the pink, white or rosy purple flower spikes.
With its deeply-veined leaves and stems coloured with red or white, Swiss Chard is both handsome and rich in vitamins. Easy-to-grow, its leaves are excellent chopped and steamed, or stewed in soups, casseroles and stir frys. In warm winter areas, plants will produce year-round. Popular varieties include Rhubarb, Fordhook Giant and Lucullus.~~Sow seeds about 10cm to 12.5cm apart in early spring, 2 to 3 weeks before last frost. One to 6 plants grow from each seed. Grow 3 to 5 plants per person. When plants are about 15cm to 18cm tall, thin to about 20cm to 30cm apart. All thinnings are edible. Withstands light frosts.
Eat beet roots and greens raw in salads or boiled, pickled or steamed. A cool growing vegetable, roots are red, white or yellow. Plants grow best before or after hot summer weather. Tolerate spring and autumn frosts, but become tough in hot weather. In mild winter areas, plant in autumn for winter and early spring harvest. ~~Thin seedlings when plants are 10cm tall to 7.5 or 10cm apart. Thinnings are edible. Harvest about 45 to 65 days after sowing, earlier if desired. To see if beets are ready, push some soil away from base of plants to check size. Young roots are more tender and finer-textured.
Fast-growing Birch trees are attractive year-round. Their light green foliage turns yellow in autumn. Losing their leaves for winter shows off their colourful, peeling bark, thin graceful branches, and hanging cone-like fruit. Young trees have dark-coloured bark until their trunks reach 2.5cm around. Plant against a darker background or green lawn to highlight pale trunks. Prone to aphids that drip a sticky substance called honeydew, so plant away from patios or car parks. Most thrive in moist sandy or rocky subsoils. Once established, tolerates some heat and dry spells. Prefer winter chill. Water deeply and often, around shallow roots. Prune in winter only after leaves have formed, to prevent sap bleeding. Transplant when dormant. Birch borers and leaf miners are major pests.
Bindweed's Latin name means "to entwine," and these evergreens trail or twine over dry banks, fences and walls. Their funnel-shaped flowers, which resemble Morning Glories, bloom all summer. But beware, for they can naturalize and become troublesome.~~Prune in late winter to encourage new growth.
Graceful with slim vertical lines of flower stalks and foliage, Bird of Paradise is a tropical, long-lasting plant. Gardeners in zone 10 find it an easy, drought-tolerant, landscape or container plant. In other zones, grow them as house plants. Both the Common and Giant Birds of Paradise have leathery banana-like leaves. The Common has colourful, feathery petals rising from a beak-shaped base. The Giant Bird of Paradise can get 3m to 4.5m tall and has a hidden inconspicuous flower. Good for use by pools.~~Sold in containers in the landscape or house plant sections of nurseries.
These weedy fast-growing plants tolerate shady or moist places and soil too poor for other plants. Use as edging or ground cover near buildings or where contained by concrete or wooden barriers. Otherwise, their creeping rootstocks can become invasive. Small flowers bloom white or yellow. Can be pruned to keep height low.
Relatives of wild plants from eastern North America, Coneflowers brighten perennial borders and meadow and wild gardens with months of late season colour. Flowers are daisy-like in shades of orange and yellow, and some are double-petaled. Tall, tough, and easy to grow in all but soggy soils, they are cheerful and showy in a vase. Annuals are available in cell packs in spring, or sow directly in the garden like other wildflowers. Perennials are sold in containers in spring.
Annuals and perennials valued for their showy, often bicoloured, daisy-like flowers. Easy to grow, they tolerate heat and some drought, and bloom for several months. Excellent cut flowers and in borders. ~~Deadhead old flowers to lengthen the blooming season. Need full sun and well-drained soils. Propagate by seed. Often naturalizes by reseeding itself.
These shade-loving perennials are popular because of their fine-textured fernlike foliage and heart-shaped flowers. Bleeding Hearts require rich, moist, well-drained soil and are excellent companion plants with begonias, columbines, epimediums, ferns, fuchsias, hellebores, primroses and other woodland plants. In mild climate regions of the country they become short-lived perennials.
Create a sweep of blue, white, purplish-pink or violet-blue Siberian Squill that carpets the ground in early spring. If left undisturbed, these low-growing plants seed themselves like wildflowers, and form large masses. Perfect for growing wild under deciduous trees and shrubs and in open meadows, woodland and rock gardens and containers. Excellent cut flowers. ~~Plants thrive in cold climates and donÆt perform well in zones 9-11.
Easy-to-grow, this member of the daisy family is good for borders or wild gardens. Most annual types are grown for their frilly, cuttable flowers, and perennials for their felty, grey foliage. All like sun, and some are drought-tolerant. Attract birds.~~Start easily by seed in spring or autumn or division. Self-sows, so may pop up where it isnÆt wanted. May need staking.
These long-lasting, persistent perennials are easy to grow. Its clusters of white, pink, lavender or blue daisy-like flowers sit atop long, leafy stems, and resemble Michaelmas daises or asters. Best grown in masses. Stand without support, even if they reach up to 1.8m tall, but stake in windy areas. Divide and replace every two or three years to prevent a leggy, unkempt look. Propagate by division in spring or autumn.
These tender, heat-loving, vigorous-growing vines and low shrubs and brilliantly-coloured flowers. Many types have dangerous, stout spines. Use tall-growing vines on fences, trellises, and as sprawling ground covers. Tie and intertwine vines on strong supports to prevent wind and rain damage. Use short mounding shrubs in containers, hanging baskets and small spaces.~~Need heat, sun and well-drained soil. Where there is frost, place vines against a warm wall or plant in a protected place. Transplant only during warm growing season, and donÆt disturb fragile roots. Reduce watering and fertilizer in mid-summer to promote flowering, and in late summer to enhance winter hardiness.
Cabbage, Broccoli, Collards and Cauliflower, plus the less-often- grown Kohlrabi, Mustard Greens, Chinese Cabbage and Turnips all belong to this family. All are cool-weather-growing vegetables, rich in vitamins A and C and a good source of fiber. Best when matured during autumn or when temperatures remain between 40 and 70║ F. Cole crops tolerate early spring and late autumn frosts, but aside from Collards, do poorly in hot weather. For summer crops, start seed indoors and transplant seedlings outdoors 4 to 6 weeks before last frost. Heavy feeders of nitrogen and potash, they like a soil pH between 6.0 to 7.5. Sow shallow-rooted plants no more than 2.5cm deep. For autumn crops, start seed from mid to late summer. In mild winter areas, plant from late summer through early spring for harvest from autumn to spring. Watch for many pests including cabbage lopper, root maggots, cabbage worm and flea beetles, plus diseases such as club root, damping off, mildew and fusarium yellows. To reduce the risk of diseases and pests, plant where cole crops havenÆt been grown for 3 years, and maintain proper soil pH.
Cytisus is a showy, fast-growing but short-lived shrub that is covered by flowers in spring and early summer. Deciduous in four-season climates, it is evergreen in mild climates. The green stems are ornamental when leaves are gone. Scores of cultivars with a wide variety of flower colours are available. Cut flowers last up to six days. Only container-grown plants can be transplanted, though plant spreads by vigorous seedlings. Plant in well-drained sandy soil. Prune to shape and remove deadwood.
Less invasive than other Brooms (such as its cousin Cytisus), these sun-loving, drought-tolerant, deciduous shrubs come in various heights. They bloom in white, yellow and gold. Seed pods follow. The short-lived leaves give way to green or grey-green branches. Not particular about soil as long as it is well-drained. Use smaller types in rock gardens or on banks. Several types were once used in dyes. The twigs, attached to long sticks, were used for sweeping.~~Start by seeds soaked in hot water overnight or by cuttings. Plant in sheltered places in colder climates. DonÆt like transplanting.
Their delicate flowers are like Forget-Me-Nots, and add small splashes of blue to the cool shade while their spreading, deep green, heart-shaped leaves add texture and fullness. Best in moist shady locations such as woodland gardens, along stream banks or borders, but tolerates drier soils. Excellent for the shady city garden. Self-sows. Difficult to start by seed. Divide in autumn.
This large dense tree's pyramidal shape is echoed in its many flower panicles. The inedible brown fruit of these Horse Chestnuts or Buckeyes holds slightly toxic, glossy seeds. Can also be grown as a shrub. Roots can be shallow and invasive. Best to buy trees that are balled and burlapped or in containers to retain the long tap root. Prone to leaf scorch, leaf blotch and moths. Prune in early spring as necessary.
Their handsome foliage, berrylike fruits and vigorous growth make them excellent shrub borders, tall screens or hedges. Small clusters of flowers are inconspicuous. Easy to grow, the deciduous and evergreen types tolerate wind, heat, drought and garden water. Grow in most soils. Seeds spread by birds can be nuisance.~~Start from seed sown in autumn or cuttings.~~Easily transplanted.
All summer long, these fast-growing shrubs produce masses of fragrant flower clusters attractive to butterflies, moths and hummingbirds. Several cultivars of varying height and flower colour are available. Plants need full sun or light shade to bloom profusely. Prune hard before new growth begins in spring. Pinch out the tips of new top growth to promote a more compact shrub, and remove old flowers to encourage new blooms. Blossoms are more visible when foliage is kept low.
Prized for their blue flowers, these annuals, biennials and perennials usually live only two to three years. Plants have coarse, hairy leaves, and all need full sun. Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis) and Brunnera macrophylla (formerly Anchusa myosotidiflora) are closely-related perennials. Anchusa officinalis is used as a medicinal herb and in dying fabric. Other Italian Buglosses come in a variety of heights, with flowers in varying shades of blue.~~Start by seed in spring, division in spring or autumn, and root cuttings. Cut back to promote second bloom. May need staking.
This large group of trees, shrubs and ground covers features plants with attractive flowers and foliage, colourful bark and dependable autumn colour. Dogwoods are often used as flowering accents, architectural screens or mat-like ground covers. Prune out oldest branches every year to encourage new growth.
The one species of Tree or Bush Poppy is native to California and northern Baja. It's ideal when grown in warm climates with other drought-resistant plants and natives, such as Manzanita and Ceanothus. Flowers mass on its many branches from mid spring through summer among leathery leaves. ~~Prune to encourage busy growth after bloom.
this includes 3 annual or perennial herbaceous herbs or shrubs from tropical South America; flowers are blue, violet, or white, tubular with flared open petals and held at the base of the leaves; these are considered excellent plants for conoisseurs of blue flowers; they bloom abundantly in warm shade and filtered sunlight and do well in hanging pots; these plants need constant moisture and warmth; get seed from specialists; plants may be hard to find in nurseries;
For instant colour, plant Impatiens en masse in shade gardens with Ferns and Hostas, or in containers and hanging baskets. These long-blooming annuals and perennials come in many colours and forms, but the most popular and commonly-grown type is Busy Lizzie (I. wallerana). As compact, mounding plants, they are covered with blossoms from late spring to early autumn. The New Guinea variety have larger but fewer flowers, variegated leaves and need more sun than other types. Excellent as accent container plants. The more upright-growing I. balsamina produces flowers along the main stem and branches. ~~All need lots of water. Where summers are hot and humid, plant in full sun with adequate water, but better with some shade. In hot dry summer areas, plant in partial shade. Perennials grown as annuals may survive mild winters, but replant in spring for vigorous, generous-blooming plants.
Like small, brightly-coloured Peonies, Ranunculus flowers offer masses of spring colour for sunny borders or containers. Plant with tall flowers, such as Snapdragons, Iceland Poppies, or with Daffodils, as Ranunculus blooms later. Most varieties are double flowering, in mixed, spotted or single colours, including shades of white, red, pink orange and yellow. Birds relish the leaves, so protect young plants with mesh or wire screening. Excellent cut flowers.~~Plant the claw-like tubers with pointed ends down in autumn in mild climates or in spring in colder climates. Watch for slugs. Dig up and store tubers over winter. If left in ground in mild winter areas, keep soil dry over summer.
Often shaped into topiary and hedging, Boxwood takes hard trimming and grows slowly. Dwarf forms have long been popular to edge walks and flowerbeds. The small leathery leaves have a musky odor, which some find unpleasant and that keeps animals from eating the foliage. Flowers are inconspicuous. Plant in well-drained soil. Protect from sun and wind in cold winter climates. ~~Don't disturb or bury the shallow roots. Prone to leaf miner and canker in the eastern US.
These 5 species of creeping cactus come from the tropical areas of the Americas. Only one type is generally grown. They have pink or red flowers and many small spines. Aerial roots grow off part of their stems. Grow in hanging baskets, window boxes or indoors. Sometimes plants are grafted onto other cacti.
With large, brilliantly-coloured, heart-shaped leaves, Caladiums add form and texture to bright-shade gardens. Many named varieties come in bold colour combinations of red, rose, pink, green silver and white, often with dark veins in the leaves. ~~A tropical native, it likes plenty of water, heat and high humidity. Excellent in pots. Protect from strong winds. Lift and store tubers in the autumn. Also grown as house plants year-round.
Includes 7 aromatic perennial herbs growing throughout Western Europe to Central Asia Northern Africa, and North America; some species may develop a woody base; several attractive species which are useful in dry, sunny borders and containers;
Named for the Greek philosopher, Aristotle, these trouble-free deciduous or evergreen vines are native to the Southern Hemisphere. They have large heart-shaped leaves and unusual, small, pipe-shaped flowers. The flowers have an unpleasant odor. Quickly reaches 6m to 9m in height. Use as a dense screen. Tolerates urban conditions. Start from stem cuttings in midsummer. Prune severely in late winter to control shape and size.
Summer-blooming, graceful Callas have storybook charm and are excellent for childrenÆs gardens, flower borders and accents in containers. The most common is Zantedeschia aethiopica. It can be grown as a water plant, and tolerates many types of soil. Others types, which need slightly-acid soil, are the smaller-growing Zantedeschia rehmannii and yellow-flowering Zantedeschia elliottiana. ~~In the ground over winter, plants spread to form large groups. In zones 7 and colder, store underground stems each autumn.
A favourite plant for mild climates, several species, plus thousands of cultivars and hybrids, offer an almost endless array of flower colours and shapes on lustrous green leaves. From the small fragrant flowers of C. lutchuensis to the very large and showy blooms of C. reticulata, these low-maintenance, evergreen shrubs have blossoms of every type. Two of the most widely planted are C. japonica and C. sasanqua. Both make excellent screens and informal hedges. Many sasanquas tolerate full sun with proper soil and ample water. All are moisture-loving, and prefer well-drained, acid soils. All make exceptional container plants. Protect from hot afternoon sun and dry winds. Start by seeds, cuttings and grafting. Clean up fallen flowers to prevent Camellia petal blight. Prune for shape after flowering. Fertilize with acid plant foods.
Heat- and sun-loving plants, CannaÆs brightly coloured spikes of flowers and bold banana-like leaves create a dramatic, tropical effect. Varieties range from very dwarf (46cm to 51cm) to tall (more than 1.2m) plants, with red, yellow, orange, apricot, salmon, white, bicolour, spotted and streaked flowers. Use dwarf Cannas as bedding plants or in large containers as accents. Use leaves in flower arrangements, though cut flowers donÆt last.~~Plant rhizomes after soil has warmed. Best in rich soils with plenty of moisture. Some varieties are grown in water or very wet soils. In zones 7 and colder, dig up rhizomes in autumn, and store in a moist, frost-free place.
With their masses of long lasting festive fruits in red, orange, yellow, green and purple, Ornamental Peppers are used as bedding or container plants. The round or pointed Peppers change colours as they ripen, so one plant may have fruits of many different colours. Like the hot peppers used in cooking, these like warm summers and plenty of water. ~~Start seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks early. Plant seedlings after soil has warmed. Pot plants in autumn for indoor colour during the holidays. Relatively pest-free, though susceptible to same diseases as edible peppers.
Well-suited for flower gardens both wild and formal, Lobelias add height and vibrant purple or scarlet to the back of the flower border. Varieties grow in upright flowering spikes. Water-loving, plants thrive along streams, ponds or other wet spots. In cool climates, grow in full sun. ~~Both perennial and annual types are easily grown from purchased or self-harvested seed and also come in containers in spring. Divide or replace plants after 3 years.
Varieties include the popular, upright, shrubby Poinsettia, the unusual, perennial, trailing Myrtle Euphorbia and the annual Snow-on-the-Mountain with its showy foliage. The real flowers are tiny, coloured yellow to green. These are often surrounded by leaves coloured like petals, which look like flowers in white, pink, red or green. The white sap a skin and eye irritant and sometimes poisonous to humans and some animals. Most require good soil drainage and full sun.~~Start by division and seed.
These mostly evergreen ground covers, shrubs and small trees have lightly fragrant blue, white or pink flowers that look like smaller versions of the Common Lilac. North American natives, they do best where summers are dry and they get little water. Known as California or Wild Lilac, they're valued as a drought-tolerant, summer-blooming plant in the West. Usually live 5 to 10 years.~~Watch for root rot in wet soils, aphids and white fly.
Cool-weather annuals, biennials, or perennials, their many fringed flowers look as if they were trimmed with pinking shears, winning them the common name of Garden Pinks. Sweetly clove-scented flowers have a velvety or satiny sheen. Colours include pink, rose, red, purple and white in pure or bicolour flowers with distinctively marked eyes or frosting. China Pinks (D. chinensis) and Sweet Williams (D. barbatus) are grown as low-growing annuals for edging, mass plantings and in containers. Perennials include single- and double-flowered hybrids. Weak-stemmed Florist Carnations (D. Caryophyllus), grown outdoors only in mild winter areas, arenÆt the best garden plants. Use Pinks in borders and rock gardens. Smaller types make excellent ground covers, good in containers. All make exceptional cut flowers.~~Most need alkaline soils and cool growing conditions without heat and humidity. Some heat-tolerant varieties are available. In hot summer areas, plant in partial afternoon shade. Cut back or shear after bloom for repeat bloom. Perennials should be restarted frequently by cuttings from disease-free plants in spring or autumn, or they die out.
These hardy, rapid-growing trees adapt to a wide range of situations, temperature extremes, various soils and varying amounts of moisture. In late spring or early summer they bloom in clusters of white flowers with two-toned markings. Long bean-like seed capsules called "Indian cigars" decorate the branches through winter. Dropping pods, blossoms, leaves and twigs create constant litter. Use in formal avenue plantings or singly on lawns, where they give a tropical effect.~~Plant where protected from wind. Shape while young, then shorten side branches of larger trees. Prune lower branches for a straight, smooth trunk.
One of the most reliable, non-stop blooming plants for the hot sun, Madagascar Periwinkle produces Phlox-like flowers in many shades and combinations of pink, mauve, white, red and rose. Varieties range from 7.5cm to 50cm tall, in upright growing or trailing forms. Use for edging, masses, containers and hanging baskets. Plants bloom from spring to first frost. ~~Originally from the tropics, does best in hot weather, but varieties have been bred for cooler climates. Poorly drained soil can cause root disease.
No cat-lover should be without some form of Nepeta in the garden. CatÆs love to smell, eat and flop down on top of the Catnip and Catmint varieties, so protect plants with wire cages or a teepee of stakes. Dried leaves can be used as feline treats or as tea. Members of the Mint family, Nepetas are hardy spreaders that make good ground covers. All have grey green foliage and small flowers of white, purple or yellow. ~~Plants prefer full sun and can tolerate infrequent watering. Find them in the herb or perennial section of your nursery.
Evergreen, cone-bearing cedar trees bear needles in tufted clusters to form a pyramidal shape. As the trees mature, they have flatter tops with large supporting trunks and limbs. In early spring or late winter, male catkins dust their surroundings with yellow pollen. Plant them where their branches have plenty of room to spread. These deep-rooted trees are drought-tolerant once established. Cedar wood is fragrant. Protect from strong winds. Tips can die back from cold temperatures or the deodar weevil.
The dense blue-green needles on these trees or shrubs often turn bronze in winter. Drooping branch tips look like fat fingers and are dotted with globe-shaped cones. Peeling bark is reddish brown.~~Won't tolerate great summer heat or little rainfall.
Vividly coloured plumed and crested flower heads make Cockcombs whimsical curiosities and bold garden accents. Plume types produce feathery, upright flower heads like ostrich plumes. Crested types resemble rooster combs or convoluted brains. Flowers come in scarlet, yellow, pink rose, apricot orange, purple, salmon and cream. Long-lasting and effective when planted in masses or with other brightly coloured flowers. Dwarf varieties are suitable for containers or edging. Excellent cut or dried flowers. Tall varieties are best as background plants and may require staking. ~~Sow seed or transplant seedlings only when soil is warm. Huge flower heads develop best in rich soil with some fertilizer, but grow well in poor soils.
Spring brings a profusion of white, pink or red flower clusters that bloom as the leaves unfold or just before. Red-brown, flat seedpods that follow in summer last through winter. Broad, heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in autumn. Plant as a shrubbery background. Transplant ball and burlapped when small. Prune out deadwood. Water during growing/blooming season. Established plants tolerate dry soil and heat. Prune dead wood and shape after flowering.
These evergreen shrubs and trees are native to tropical areas in the Americas. They boast very fragrant red, yellow, white or greenish flowers that open at night. Flowers attract hummingbirds. Bloom at various times during the year. Grow in warm areas or under glass. Plants damaged by ~~heavy frosts generally come back quickly. Prune heavily to prevent legginess and increase blooms after flowering.
Resembling Cypress, their flattened sprays of aromatic foliage on feathery branches create a pyramidal shape. Evergreen foliage ranges from dark green to yellow, some with white markings on undersides. Most grow to 15m tall, though dwarf varieties are available for foundation plantings and hedges. Mature cones are brown to yellow-brown. The ridged reddish-brown bark peels off.~~Protect from strong winds. Prune dead central branches if needed. Free from pests and disease.
Resembling miniature Hollyhocks, the silky-petaled, elegant spikes make good cut flowers. ~~Prune old flower stalks to the ground to encourage more blooms. Taller varieties might need staking. Buy in containers in spring.
This massive deciduous shade tree has dark to bright green foliage, and clusters of creamy white foliage in summer. In autumn, chestnuts ripen in spiny brown husks, just in time for roasting on cold nights. The species, C. dentata, has died out due to a blight, so plant other types of Chestnut. Mostly drought-tolerant, though they prefer occasional deep watering and fertilizer.
This genus includes both the decorative Chinese Lantern and several edible species. Although not well known, Tomatillos are gaining in popularity as more cooks try their hands at Mexican cooking. The cherry-tomato-like fruit are green to yellow when ripe and covered by papery husks which are removed before cooking. The fruit has a sweet, yet lemony taste and may be used raw in salads, sauces or garnishes, or cooked and pureed. Related to Tomatoes, these vining plants are easy to grow in areas with long summers. ~~Best in full sun with staking. Pests and diseases are the same as Tomatoes. Harvest about 100 days from planting.
Commonly known as the Flowering Maple, these tropical and semi-tropical shrubs or plants are prized for their rapid growth and plentiful, long-lasting blossoms. Some species have maplelike leaves and shape. In cooler climates, they're grown in greenhouses or in pots and hanging baskets and taken indoors during the winter. In warmer climates, they're grown as an espalier. Protect from afternoon sun in warm climates. Easily started from greenwood cuttings in autumn. Stake young plants, and pinch growing tips. Water during growing/blooming season and less at other times. Prune in early spring to promote bushy growth.
These vigorous growing vines with large and colourful tubular flowers are a perfect wall cover for hot south-facing walls. The vines attach to wood, stucco or brick walls with root-like tendrils and need strong structural support to carry their heavy weight.~~Thrive in almost any soil, but need summer heat to bloom profusely. Prune hard each spring to encourage new flowers and control growth. Can become top heavy if not thinned. Root suckers can cause plant to spread. Any piece of root left in ground sprouts a new plant.
Easy-to-grow, edible members of this diverse family include Onions, Garlic, Shallots, Leeks, Green Onions and Chives.~~Leaves grow best in cool weather and moist soil. Mature Onions, Garlic and Shallots form bulbs in summer. Feed early in growing season with low nitrogen, high potassium and phosphorus fertilizers. Slower grown from seed, but youÆll get a larger crop and more varieties to choose from. Easiest to grow from small bulbs called sets. In mild winter areas, plant in autumn. Elsewhere, plant in earliest spring. Store Garlic bulbs and Onions in a cool, dry, airy place out of direct light.
Attractive in three seasons, deciduous, carefree Chokeberrys have white spring flowers, followed by red, purple or black summer fruits and spectacular autumn foliage. Fruits attract birds. Plant in full sun for the best autumn colour.~~Native to wetland areas, they tolerate wet roots, plus cold, wind and heat. Good for shrub borders. However, they will naturalize, so remove suckers to keep plants from spreading.
Floss Silk Trees flower in the autumn when little else is in bloom. Their trunks, with prominent their thick spines, have a primitive look. The silky seed floss was once used for stuffing pillows in their native South America. Needs good drainage.
Sun-loving Chrysanthemums have been garden favourites for centuries. They bloom in summer and autumn in all colours except blue, and flowers range from the immense, showy FloristsÆ Chrysanthemum to button-sized. The foliage has divided leaves with a strong scent. Use in borders or containers for cut flowers. The common name æDaisyÆ usually refers to some kind of Chrysanthemum and ômumsö to the autumn-blooming hybrids sold in florists' shops. There are many other types as well including annuals, perennials and subshrubs. Some of these arenÆt called Chrysanthemums because the genus has been divided and renamed, so ask at your local nursery. ~~Shallow-rooted, need moist soil and regular fertilizing. Pinch tips until mid-summer or when flowering begins. Divide plants in spring, discarding the ôwoodyö parts. Cut back regularly to promote bloom. Leafminer causes unsightly squiggly lines on older leaves. Consult your nursery for controls.
Native to the Mediterranean region, these evergreen, spring- and summer-blooming shrubs are perfect for sunny, dry or hot situations and seashore plantings. Leaves vary in size and shape, but blooms are single and rose-like. Fast-growing and fire-resistant, they tolerate drought and poor soils. They are also cold-hardy to 10║ to 20║ F. Need little attention except for cutting back occasionally. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Plant in masses in rock gardens or as a bank cover, as they help control erosion.
The garden edict of keeping their heads in the sun and toes in the shade is fitting for these vines. Mulch to keep ground temperatures cool and moist, but give direct sun to encourage their large, showy blooms. Many will thrive in partial sun locations, especially in hot summer season climates. Plants attach to supports with twining leafstalks, and so climb trellises, walls, poles, trees and over shrubs.~~Prune to control size, encourage fuller, lower growth and vigorous flowering. Spring-blooming Clematis flower on last year's growth, so prune after flowering. Summer and autumn bloomers flower on current spring growth, so prune in the late autumn or early spring. Those that bloom in spring and again in summer or autumn flower on last year's growth in spring and new growth in summer or autumn. Only light pruning is needed in autumn or early spring. Watch for stem-rot, leaf-spot, wilt and mildew.
A familiar sight in California and Arizona, rapid-growing, long-lived eucalyptuses are a varied lot. Also called gum trees, they range from shrubby, vine-like plants to huge trees, with different leaf and flower shapes on each. In general, though, leaves are crisp, leathery and usually aromatic. The flowers are fluffy and the flat-topped seed capsules are woody. Some varieties have white or pink flowers that are a source of honey. Some tolerate extreme heat and cold, others are fairly drought-tolerant.~~Buy the smallest plant you can find so that it won't be root bound. Chlorosis affects some species in alkaline soil. In California, the eucalyptus longhorn beetle is a deadly pest.
This tree needs room to grow since it spreads to 12m and reaches 15m to 22.5m tall. In spring, feathery foliage and fragrant flower clusters appear. Tolerate dry soil and urban pollution.~~Plant balled or container plants in spring in full sun. Relatively free of diseases and pests.
With colourful leaves, Coleus are perfect for providing constant brightness in shaded and partly-shaded areas. Leaves on different varieties can be heart- or lance-shaped, laced or fringed, and variously-edged, mottled or streaked in mixes of chartreuse, red, lime, pink, salmon, yellow, purple and green. Use as bedding, edging or container plants. Use pure strains, with one leaf colour combination, with other plants of varying texture and colour. Mixed strains, with many different hues, introduce a riot of colour in the garden. Perennial in warm winter areas, but are commonly grown as annuals in all areas.~~Too much sun will bleach colours out, and too much shade will result in poor growth and less colourful leaves, so keep shade partial. Easy to grow from seed. Pinch young plants to encourage bushiness. Pinch inconspicuous flowers before they develop. Plants or cuttings can be grown over the winter as house plants. The foliage is considered the real value and the flower buds often are simply pinched off to maintain the plant's shape;
This popular, summer-blooming North American native has large, daisy-like flowers with raised, cone-shaped centres which rise in stiff masses on stout, 90cm to 1.5m, hairy stems. The short-lived, but long-blooming flowers attract butterflies, make excellent cut flowers and range in colour from purple, to rose, to pink, to white. The dried, chopped underground roots are used in herbal remedies to stimulate the immune system. ~~Start by seed or division. In eastern states, watch for Japanese Beetles.
Their vibrant, eye-catching, daisy-like, yellow blooms make long-lasting cut flowers. Easy-to-grow, these long-blooming North American natives are good for beginning gardeners. Single- and double-flowering varieties available. Use these drought-tolerant plants in sunny, wild gardens, flower borders and containers. Attract songbirds. The common name comes from the shape of the seed which is flattened like a tick. ~~Buy in containers. Plant or divide these summer bloomers in autumn or spring. Self-sows.
Used in cooking and medicine since at least 800 BC, Coriander seeds are used as a spice and the delicate leaves, Cilantro, are used as an herb or vegetable. American and European cooking uses the Anise-like seeds in cookies, marmalade and pudding. The leaves are a common ingredient in Mexican, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisines. Related to parsley, Cilantro grows easily and quickly. It also attracts beneficial insects. Self-sows if allowed to go to seed. Sow seeds in place since they donÆt transplant well.
This cheerful roadside weed with big purple flowers has a checkered history. It once flourished around farm fields, but the leaves, flowers, and seeds are all poisonous if eaten. To keep the seeds out of grain harvests, farmers all but wiped out the corn cockle with herbicides. Now it's found a new life brightening country gardens and meadows. The wispy, grass-like leaves and colourful blooms are also attractive when massed in mixed borders. The flowers attract bees, and their long, thin but sturdy stems make them good cut flowers. ~~Give it well-drained, but not too fertile soil, and full sun. Remove dead flowers to promote blooming. Sow seeds in spring, or in mild winter climates, sow in the autumn for winter colour. Considered an annual, but will overwinter if tied to stakes for support.
Small plants have clumps of fern-like foliage and clusters of spurred flowers in white, yellow, pink, blue or purple. Plant with Primroses, Bleeding Hearts, Columbine, LadyÆs Mantle and ferns in woodland gardens, by pools or streams. Also grown in rock crevices. ~~Start from seed in spring or autumn, or divide degree. Likes partial shade. Self-sows readily in favourable locations.
Bunches of daisy-like flowers and graceful feathery foliage make Cosmos a delight in both colour and texture. Attractive to birds and butterflies, Cosmos are available in two species: Cosmos bipinnatus come in pink, rose, red, white, lavender and bicolours, and Cosmos sulfureus in yellow, orange and scarlet orange. Some varieties of this fast-grower have semi-double flowers, rolled quilled petals or bicolour striped colours. Use 90cm to 1.8m tall plants as background, or in wild or naturalistic gardens. Dwarf forms, 30 to 60cm tall, are good for containers. Excellent cut flowers. ~~Considered drought resistant, Cosmos grows best in full sun, but will grow well and flower earlier in poor, fairly dry soils. Easy to grow from seed, they seed themselves. Don't over-fertilize, unless you want lush plants with few flowers. Tall varieties require staking. Nearly pest-free, but watch for borers or fungal diseases.
This fast-growing group of evergreen-to-deciduous shrubs and ground covers features showy fruits that attract birds. Most are low-maintenance shrubs, requiring meager amounts of water and only occasional pruning to control shape and size. Plant in full sun, except in desert climates, where they need shade during the hottest time of day. Watch for fireblight. They don't transplant easily.
Edible apples and ornamental crabapples have masses of spring flowers that emerge before the leaves. Hundreds of apple varieties are grown for cider, cooking, eating, or a combination of uses. Each type, including dwarf and semi-dwarf, has its own climate preferences and harvest dates. However, some types of apple tree can be found to grow in any state in the United States.~~Single- or semi-double-flowering trees have red, orange or yellow apples that ripen from midsummer into autumn. Double-flowering crabapples seldom produce fruit. Crabapples do well in lawns, in the foreground of borders, or, closely planted in rows, as high screens. They tolerate a range of soils, from acid to slightly alkaline, and from rocky to wet. ~~Stake newly planted trees. Protect the fruit from birds. Prune damaged, diseased, dead or rubbing branches. Remove suckers in early summer.
Popular, hardy Geraniums have multitudes of long-blooming, intensely coloured flowers and dense mounds of lobed leaves. Excellent border, rock garden or woodland plants. The common name refers to the beak-like fruit. See Pelargonium for the showier indoor/outdoor plants most commonly known as geraniums.~~Most thrive in full or partial sun, and plants often remain evergreen. Protect plants in warmer climates from hot afternoon sun. Most grown by seed or division.
Use these vines and ground covers to blanket rough walls and arbors. In autumn, the deciduous leaves turn fiery colours and are interspersed with clusters of dark blue berries that attract birds. Tolerate most soils. Support growing plants. Don't plant to cover wood or shingled siding, as the vines will grow under planks. Tendrils are hard to remove. Prone to leaf hoppers and Japanese beetles. Start new plants from cuttings in spring.
Simple to grow, these drought-tolerant, showy plants naturalize easily. Use for summer colour in perennial borders and wild gardens. Good cut flowers in orange, yellow and scarlet with sword-like leaves. Often confused with Chasmanthe, which blooms in the spring.~~In autumn, buy bulbs or get divisions from established plants. In colder zones, plant in a sheltered location and mulch in winter, or dig up and store in autumn. In coastal areas, plant in full sun, elsewhere in partial shade.
Crocus often burst through the snow in late winter and provide carpets of colour when little else is stirring. Spring-and autumn-blooming crocus species extend the variety and season of bloom and deserve to be more widely planted. Leaves are grass-like and appear with, or after, the large flowers. These popular Dutch hybrids come in many varieties, including bicolour and striped selections. One species, Crocus sativus, is the source of saffron. Excellent along pathways, between stepping stones, in containers and rock gardens. Most effective when naturalized in drifts in open woodland and lawns, or beneath deciduous trees and shrubs. ~~Best in cold winter climates planted in full sun, or in hot summer areas, in partial shade. Allow foliage to fully mature and die down before pruning to ensure future bloom and development of plant colonies. You can force corms to bloom in winter by starting them indoors.
For crisp pickles or cool, soft slices in salads and sandwiches, choose the right type of cucumber. Some varieties produce only female flowers with bigger yields, so plant male pollinators nearby. ~~Transplant or sow seedlings in deep rich soil well after last spring frosts. Sun-loving vines need 2.25 sq m per hill. To protect young plants from downpours, insects and frosts, cover with material such as waxed paper cups or translucent plastic. Water slowly and deeply, but avoid wetting leaves to prevent mildew. Bitterness is believed to be caused by infrequent watering or high temperatures. ~~Many have a short growing season, so pick while young to ensure continued production. Harvest pickling cucumbers 5cm to 7.5cm long, and slicing cucumbers at 15cm to 20cm long, usually 55 to 60 days from seed. Prey to bacterial mildew, leaf spot, mosaic virus and scab, so plant disease-resistant varieties.
With their long-lasting, waxy flowers and glossy green leaves, cold-tolerant types are excellent for shady and woodland gardens, bedding and containers. The popular, large-flowering FloristÆs Cyclamen (C. persicum) is grown outdoors only in warm winter areas (zones 9 and 10) and as a houseplant elsewhere. C. coum and C. neapolitanum are cold-hardy species with smaller flowers which bloom late summer to early autumn. Grown outdoors, may self-sow. Pink, white, red or rose flowers bloom in winter and late summer. Plants lose leaves part of the year, which reappear before or with flowers.~~Purchase in containers in spring or autumn. Plant in their dormant season, during part of the summer. Withhold water then until growth resumes in autumn. Otherwise keep soil moist. Plant FloristÆs Cyclamen with top of tubers exposed anytime. Cover hardy species with 2.5 to 5cm of soil and topdress annually with compost.
A spring treat, these Mediterranean native, perennial vegetables grow best where winters are mild and summers cool. A flower bud with a delicious edible heart and leaves, the purple, thistle-like flower follows if not harvested. The spectacular grey, spiny foliage makes the plants interesting enough for ornamental gardens.~~Plant from root divisions in winter or spring, or start from seed in spring. Seedlings take a year or longer to bear. Plant in good rich soil with winter sun. Give high-nitrogen fertilizer, and water well during growing season. ~~The first year, plants produce 1 to 3 artichokes. Established plants bear as many as 20 to 30 artichokes in spring. In autumn, you may get a second crop. When harvesting, leave lower buds on stem to form smaller, secondary artichokes. Clean up dead leaves and remove spent flower stalks. In early autumn, divide overgrown plants.
Suited to warm or mild dry climates only, Cypresses are long-lived and fast-growing trees. These evergreens have a variety of shapes and forms. Some are dense and bushy, while others are flat-topped or pyramidal. All have cones and their fragrant foliage is generally dark green. Use singly or massed as windbreaks or screens. Water during dry spells in the first few years. Older trees are drought-tolerant.
Perfect for swampy areas, they are among the few trees that tolerate constantly wet roots. Deciduous or evergreen, these conical or columnar trees reach 15m to 26m tall. Most require acid soil, and tolerate colder and drier climates. Bear sprays of needlelike feathery foliage and scented cones.~~Prune dead or unwanted branches.
For fast growth, this single hybrid outstrips most. It reaches 6m in only 5 years, changing from a column to a narrow pyramid. Where summers are warm or hot, trees grow broader. Used as a tall hedge or screen, it's also planted in groves. Thrives in most soils and climates. Tolerates strong winds.
There's just one species of this native coastal shrub or small tree. Grown often in the South, it has a distinctive bloom, small yellow fruit and orange to scarlet autumn leaf colour. Its stout trunk develops many contorted and twisted branches. Found in swamps in the wild, it can take wet soils. Prefers peat moss and acid soil so is a good companion for Azaleas and Rhododendrons.~~Prune lightly as flowers bloom on last year's growth.
Diverse and versatile, Dahlias are prized for their large, often spectacularly-coloured and shaped blooms. Flowers fall into 11 categories, including Anemone, Pompom, Decorative, Cactus, Peony, Waterlily and Star-shaped. They range from 5cm to 7.5cm to more than 18cm or 20cm across and come in most colours except blue. Dwarf, intermediate and tall plants range from 20cm to 1.3m tall. Easy to grow, bloom best in full sun, but tolerate some shade. Excellent cut flowers.~~Traditionally grown from tubers, some start from seed and are grown as short annuals. Plant tubers in early spring and seed-grown plants after last frost. For large flowers, plant in rich soil and give plenty of water. Pinch tall-growing plants at 10cm to 15cm to encourage branching and flowers. For larger flowers, donÆt pinch centre stem, but remove buds from sideshoots. Except in zones 10-11, dig up and store tubers in autumn.~~Although relatively pest-free, susceptible to viruses, aphids, Japanese beetles, thrips, earwigs and nematodes. Healthy stock plants, good air circulation and spacing greatly reduce problems.
Sky blue, daisy-like flowers with yellow centres bloom on these bushy, South African natives. Their hairy mounds of dark green foliage thrive in dry pockets of rock gardens, edging, bedding and containers. Flowers on 30 to 60cm stems tolerate wind and make long-lasting cut flowers. Blooms sometimes close at night and on cloudy days. Some varieties offer flowers in darker blues, lavender and white.~~Start seed indoors 6 weeks before last frost. In frost-free areas, grow as perennials, elsewhere as annuals. Pick dead flowers to promote more blooms.
The thread-like, aromatic foliage is mostly hidden by masses of ╜-in-wide, Daisy-like, golden-yellow flowers on these low annuals. Native to the southwest US, they tolerate hot weather and full sun, blooming from early summer into winter in mild areas. Good edgings for borders and colourful additions to rock gardens. Excellent cut flowers. From seed, plants take as long as 4 months to bloom. In colder areas, sow seed indoors 10 to 12 weeks before last frost is due. Plant seedlings after danger of frost is past. In mild winter areas, sow seed in ground in autumn or early spring.
These Morocco natives form a low mat of dense ferny foliage. Their paired or solitary, white, daisylike flowers are blushed with pinkish red on the undersides. Gray hairy leaves are finely cut. Great annuals, biennials or perennials for sunny rock gardens with perfect drainage and neutral to alkaline soils. Won't tolerate soggy soil or wet winters.
About 70 annual or perennial herbs with daisy-like flowers; they come from Australia, new Zealand, New Guinea, and Tasmania; these neat, mounding daisies with narrow leaves have a profusion of flowers in spring and summer and are useful in borders, containers and rock gardens; they require sun and shelter along with rich, well-drained soil; encourage bushiness by pinching new shoot tips; propagate by seed or cuttings;
Full of clusters of fragrant blooms in early spring, and in early summer, tiny, bright fruits, all parts of these evergreen trees and shrubs are poisonous. Flowers range from pink to white to deep red, and leaves are green or green-edged with gold. ~~All need fast-draining soil, so use in rock gardens and containers. Grow in borders near walkways or under windows where you can catch their perfume. Since they grow well in full sun or light shade, you can plant them under trees or on the north side of the house. One problem with these plants is that they sometimes die suddenly for no known reason.~~Mulch to keep roots cool in summer. Buy in containers, with their root balls in burlap or start from cuttings, not bare root plants.
A veggie garden favourite, high in vitamin A, Carrots produce a lot of food in a small space. A 6m row feeds 4 people. Good, deep sandy soil is essential in growing good Carrots. If you have shallow, rocky or clay soil, plant in containers or raised beds, or use short-rooted or baby varieties. ~~Begin sowing seed in early spring and continue at 3-week intervals so you can harvest several crops. Carrots donÆt like temperatures above 85║ F, so time sowings to avoid the hottest part of summer. In mild winter areas, sow Carrots from late summer through spring for autumn, winter and spring harvest. Cover seeds with 6mm to 12mm of sandy soil or vermiculite. Thin edible seedlings to 5cm apart, and protect from Aster leafhopper. DonÆt fertilize with manure. Keep soil moist as infrequent watering causes carrots to split. Depending on the variety, harvest is 30 to 80 days after sowing. Finger-sized Carrots are the most tender, but nearly mature Carrots are sweeter.
One of the most diverse groups of perennials with more than 34,000 types available in the US. Single or double flowers of almost every colour appear in succession through the summer, each fading after 1 day. Easy-to-grow, heat- and drought-tolerant, use in dry or water gardens, containers or mass on slopes. New varieties are always being introduced, some of dwarf height, with more intensely-coloured flowers, more vigorous growth or longer blooming seasons. Some are semi-evergreen. In China, the buds and dried flowers are an edible delicacy.~~Remove old flowers daily to prolong bloom. DonÆt over-fertilize as more foliage than blooms appear. Generally pest-resistant, in mild climates protect against slugs and snails. Start by division of vigorous growing clumps.
Deadnettles grow in shady places where many other flowers wonÆt. Their bright variegated foliage and pink or white flowers make them excellent small-scale ground covers. In hanging containers, their trailing stems with heart-shaped, 4 to 5cm leaves drape over the edges. Deciduous in cold climates and partially evergreen elsewhere. ~~Shear back to generate bloom and keep foliage fresh.
Tall and stately, their flowering spikes are dramatic accents in perennial borders that make excellent cut flowers. Blooms single or double, solid or bicolour, with a contrasting white or black centre often called a ôbee.ö Tall, 1.2 to 1.8m, varieties include the æBlackmore,Æ æLangdonÆ and æPacificÆ hybrid seed strains. The intermediate hybrids are 90cm to 1.2m tall with multiple flower spikes. De-head to produce new flower spikes. Use lower, 60 to 120cm varieties, such as the Connecticut Yankees, in small gardens.~~Plants are perennial in cool summer climates, but grown as annuals or biennials, especially where summers are hot. Plant seedlings in early spring, late summer and early autumn. Summer and autumn plantings flower in spring. Seedlings started in spring may not bloom until the next year. For large flower spikes, give rich, well-drained soil and regular feeding. Stake tall plants and protect from strong winds. Watch for crown rot.
Use these dense-growing, low-maintenance deciduous trees and shrubs for tall, medium and low hedges or windbreaks. Their many flowers bloom with other late spring bulbs such as Dutch Iris, Tulips and Mock-Oranges. Flowers are usually white, but can be pink or purplish on the outside. Plant the low-growing types around Roses.~~Likes sun or partial shade and well-drained, humusy soil. Choose a protected site in cold winter areas. Shield plants from winds. Prune old shoots right after bloom. Start from cuttings.
Saucer-like, salmon to pink flowers bloom on these annuals and perennials from South Africa. Some varieties have deep pink or orange flowers. Excellent for rock gardens, borders, bedding and containers, but arenÆt good as cut flowers. The generously branching, spreading perennials do best where summers arenÆt too hot or humid. Plants need good drainage, and perennials die in winter if soil is wet.
Used in both medicine and poisons, these easy-to-grow biennials and perennials have tall spires of tubular flowers, fancied to have the shape of fingers of a glove. They attract hummingbirds. The grey leaves grow at the bottom of the stalk below the flowers. Excellent for mixed flower borders. Self-sows, if old flowers are left until seeds mature and scatter. ~~Sow seed or divide in spring. Also available in cell packs, 10cm and gallon-sized containers in autumn and spring. After first bloom, cut main stem so side shoots develop which keep blooming. Watch for slugs and snails.
With their gracefully nodding, Lily-like flowers and often shiny, mottled leaves, plant these in drifts or clumps in woodland or shady gardens, or beside pools and streams. Mostly native to North America, the many types have flowers which range from creamy white to pale lavender and rose. All like soil rich in organic matter. DonÆt let them dry out during active growth. Some species go dormant in summer and resume growth in late winter and early spring.~~Plant corms before they dry out.
These popular, tropical plants are grown for their foliage; they are evergreen and are palmlike; they may be grown as houseplants and some species are grown outdoors as large specimens in warmer climates; some forms are graceful and fountainlike with ribbonlike leaves; others have stiff and swordlike leaves; they tolerate some aridity; often used as house plant, tho does not usually flower indoors; flowers may be red, green or white depending on the species;
Several of these mostly deciduous ferns are known for their beautifully-coloured new growth in shades of gold, bronze or red. Grown also for their drought tolerance and ease of care, use them in shady borders or woodland settings. ~~Like full sun in cool climates, but do best with just 2 to 3 hours of sun per day elsewhere. Sold in containers during the growing season.
A large group of low-maintenance, thistle-like perennials requiring only well-drained soil, sun and occasional water. Valued for their long-blooming flowers and striking, grey-woolly foliage, the blossoms also attract bees, butterflies, moths and hummingbirds. Excellent cut and dried flowers. ~~Start by division or seed. Give plenty of room to grow. Cut flowers for drying just before the florets open. Wear gloves to protect hands from the prickly leaves.
Trouble-free and fast-growing when young, these rugged, evergreen and deciduous shrubs thrive in heat, aridity, wind and poor soils. Waxy olive-green to grey leaves form dense shrubs that make an excellent screen or hedge. An excellent coastal windbreak. Types with variegated foliage are available. ~~Inconspicuous, fragrant flowers develop into berry-like fruits. Some species have 5 to 7.5cm long thorns. Prune to control size and to promote dense growth. Start by cuttings.
These shrubby, low-growing, heat-loving perennials have finely textured leaves and flowers. Their brightly coloured tubular flowers bloom generously in summer. They look like tiny cigars or firecrackers in purple, red or white with white or green tips. Use for bedding or edging and in containers and hanging baskets. Also grown as houseplants in light shade. Native to Mexico and Guatemala, they are hardy in warm winter areas. In colder climates, plant outside only after weather has warmed.~~Pinch growing tips for compact growth, and cut older plants back. Water during growing/blooming season, keeping soil evenly moist.
Once a popular vase-shaped lawn and street tree, American Elms are plagued by incurable Dutch elm disease and insects. Elms also have shallow, aggressive root systems. However, one species, the Chinese Elm, which resists disease and pest damage, is still planted in mild-winter and desert regions. Its long arching branches are covered with glossy saw-toothed leaves that turn colour in autumn. Its shedding bark creates a multicoloured trunk. Don't plant Elms where Dutch elm disease has broken out. Stake young trees until trunk develops. Prune to shape and remove deadwood.
A large group of shrubs or ground covers, these evergreens have small, needle-like leaves and many small, brightly-coloured flowers that attract bees. Good on slopes, in rock gardens or containers. Also found in Shakespeare gardens. Use taller types as screens. Members of the Heather family, the most cold-tolerant types come from northern and western Europe. A native Mediterranean type tolerates some cold, while South African varieties donÆt like frost at all. Garden artists plant several ground cover types to create a colourful carpet.~~Need excellent drainage and most like acid soil. Where air is moist, plant in full sun. Elsewhere, give partial shade. Prune branches that have flowered. Protect plants from winds and water during dry periods.
Their tall, striking foliage and thistle-like clusters of flowers make them a favourite border or rock garden plant. Many are drought-tolerant. The summer-blooming, soft blossoms harden in prickly, long-lasting cut and dried flowers. Tops of flower spikes bloom first, while flowers on lower, side-branching stems bloom later. The blue flowers have thimble-like domes surrounded by steel-blue, petal-like leaves. Need full sun and good drainage.~~Start by root cuttings, as they donÆt like transplanting, or by seed. Space plants about 30cm apart.
Grown for their showy, orange or yellow, usually fragrant flowers, these annuals and perennials are very drought-tolerant and live longer when grown in lean, rocky soils. Many are naturally found on rock walls or barren slopes. They require sun and well-drained soils. ~~Start by seed or cuttings. Remove old flower stalks to encourage new blossoms.
Their large rose- or poppy-like flowers in soft pastel colours are enjoyed by gardeners and flower arrangers alike. On the plant or cut, silvery pink, pure white, sky blue, purple, yellow and rose pink blooms last up to 3 weeks. This native to the American prairies comes in single- and double-flowering, dwarf and bicolour varieties. Leaves are a shiny bluish green. Plant in masses, borders or in containers. ~~Full sun and excellent drainage are essential. Too much moisture and fertilization damages plants, so in wet summer areas, plant in containers. Slow from seed, so buy plants in spring. Pinch to encourage branching and flowers. Grown as annuals, plants may live through the winter to flower again in spring.
Related to Morning Glories, these heat-loving plants have small, trumpet-shaped flowers all summer. Plants form low, dense mounds of light green. Likes full sun. ~~Start by seed or easily by cuttings.
Native to the Mediterranean and easy to cultivate, Fennel has become naturalized in parts of the US. Some of the plants' fern-like leaves, leaf bases and seeds are edible and have a licorice flavour. Like others in the carrot family, their flowers attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies. Swallowtail butterflies lay their eggs on Fennel, and green and yellow caterpillars, called parsleyworms, decorate the plant while they feed. ~~Sow seed in the ground, and thin seedlings to 30cm apart. Established Fennel seeds itself, so weed out unwanted plants before their extensive root systems make them difficult to remove.~~A stunning bronze variety also exists. The bulbous root of dwarf Sweet Fennel is edible.
This highly variable group of ferns includes the spectacular Bird's Nest Fern with its sword-like leaves, the dainty Mother Fern with hundreds of baby ferns clinging to its lacy leaves and several other types of ferns. All need shade and abundant water. They grow best in warmer zones. Popular as house plants. Hardy varieties exist and may be found with fern specialists. ~~Outdoors, protect from snails and slugs. Indoors, watch for aphids and spider mites.
From the moist, humid tropics and the cold Himalayas, these ferns thrive in a variety of areas. Most are used in shady woodland gardens, around ponds, as ground cover under shrubs such as Rhododendrons, or planted with Dicentra, Astilbe, Iberis, Narcissus or Primula. Others thrive in a shady rock garden. The tropical species are grown in greenhouses. Use dwarf types in indoor terrariums. All need moisture, so they donÆt do well where summers are hot and dry. The Himalayan native, A. venustum, stays green in mild northern winters, but, like the others, dies back in frosts. Use fronds with cut flowers.~~Start by division. Watch for slugs and snails.
These small trees or large spreading bushes are known for their tropical-looking foliage and pear-shaped edible fruits. Outside temperate climates, they're grown as tub plants in colder regions, taken inside, or protected in winter. They grow in most soils and are drought-resistant once established. Plant where fruit drop won't cause a litter problem. In cooler areas, plant near or against a south wall that retains heat. Plant in wire baskets where gophers are a problem. Prune to almost any shape and size. Trees bear fruit twice a year without pollination. Fertilize and water regularly for best fruit production. Protect fruit from birds.
These cone-bearing evergreens, commonly called firs, are large, majestic trees. Place them in groups, singly in lawns, or in forest plantings. Their upright cones vary in colour--purple, blue, red-brown or green--by species. The flat leaves are aromatic. Prefer moist, cool, acid soil, and full sun. Many types need some winter chill. Shelter from wind. Won't thrive in polluted city air. While they don't require pruning, branch ends can be removed for denser growth. Even large trees are transplantable.
These coniferous pyramidal-shaped evergreens are relatives of the Redwoods from Asia. The stiff, pointed leaves have a broad white band beneath. Leaves are spirally arranged. Female cones are narrowly winged, while male cones grow in clusters. Grow in mild climates, and shelter from strong winds. Damaged by cold temperatures, but can resprout new branches from trunk.
Large, upright, clumping grasses with striking foliage and eye-catching flowering plumes rise above the arching leaves. Foliage and flowers sway gracefully in the wind while reflecting the sunlight. Use plumes in dried flower arrangements. Plant in mass plantings or mixed with other perennials or shrubs. Many types available.~~Divide clumps for new plants and to rejuvenate growth. Cut back hard in late winter before new growth begins. Wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from grass blade cuts.
These small drought-tolerant trees or shrubs look beautiful in hillside plantings, especially when mixed with other plants that need little water. Leathery, dark green leaves have feltlike undersides. Yellow saucerlike flowers are followed by long-lasting conical seed capsules. Start by seed or softwood cuttings. Stake young plants because of shallow root system. In frost areas, plant against a wall. Overwatering kills or shortens their life span.
Linen is made from one species of Flax, and its seeds provide linseed oil. Whether annual or perennial, all are drought-tolerant, sun-loving and perfect for the wild garden or in borders. Ornamental Flaxes have yellow, red, white or blue, simple flowers with five satiny petals. Flowers live only one day, but the plant blooms steadily from early spring into summer or autumn. ~~Cut the flowers, as picking can tear out the whole plant. Will grow from cuttings, but more easily started from seed sown in autumn or spring. Perennials are available in containers and live only 3 to 4 years. Sow annuals in place.
A highly variable group of large leafed perennials with varying heights and leaf colours. Phormiums tolerant a wide range of soil types, heat or coastal winds, drought or damp locations. Leaf colours intensify during the cooler months of the year. Leaves are valued in floral displays. Propagated by divsion.
These annuals, biennials and perennials are excellent in beds, flower borders, woodland and rock gardens and containers. Long-blooming, they begin flowering blue, pink or white in late spring and continue through the summer. Short-lived annuals do best in cool and moist conditions. There, they often naturalize and self-seed year after year. Plant all with other shade- and moisture-lovers such as Primula, Trollius and Hosta. ~~In mild climates, sow seeds of annuals in early autumn for winter and spring bloom. In cold climates, sow indoors in March. Also protect roots of perennials in winter. If you want annuals to naturalize, leave spent flowers on plants to allow development and scattering of seeds.
One of the earliest winter bloomers, their dramatic yellow sprays of scentless flowers appear on arching or trailing bare branches February to April. Lush green foliage follows. The height of these vigorous-growing plants ranges from 30cm to 3m. Use in shrub borders or containers, as screens or banks, or trained to grow against a wall or fence. Pest- and disease-resistant, they thrive in full sun or light shade, and almost any soil. F. ovata (Korean Forsythia) is the most cold-resistant and earliest-blooming.~~Prune after flowering. Leave side branches, but remove weak or dead wood. Water during dry spells, as plants wilt in dry weather.
Two white flowering shrubs from the eastern United States. One is a 90cm to 1.2m spreader, the other grows to 2.7m tall. Their leaves offer excellent orange and scarlet autumn colour. Honey-scented, bottle-brush shaped blooms open before leaves develop, creating a dramatic spring show. ~~In hot, dry summer climates, needs partial shade and extra water. Plant in peaty soil.
These mostly tufted or clump-forming, ornamental grasses have fuzzy, spike-like flowers that look like narrow bottlebrushes. Drought-resistant, these annuals and perennials prefer dry locations, but grow in most soils. Use stems in flower arrangements. Some types naturalize freely and can become weedy pests. Cut stems before flowers go to seed to control growth. ~~Start most by plant division or seed. In order to prevent crown rot, plant the crown of the plant above ground level.
Several deliciously fragrant flowers in many colours grow gracefully on wiry stems above miniature Gladiolus-like leaves. Excellent cut flowers. Native to South Africa, theyÆre a popular bulb for borders, rock gardens and containers in mild winter climates (zones 9-11).~~In colder areas, plant corms in spring. In all areas, grow as houseplants for indoor blooming. When foliage dies down in autumn, withhold water. In cold climates, lift and store bulbs in a frost-free place or grow in pots in a sunny window. Self-sows if faded flowers arenÆt removed.
Cherished for their nodding, bell-shaped flowers which often have delicate, checkered patterns, most are best suited to rock and woodland gardens in filtered shade. One species, F. imperialis, has brightly coloured, showy clusters of flowers. Plant it with Tulips, Daffodils and Hyacinths for spring blossoming in borders or containers. Close-up, flowers and bulbs have an unpleasant odor. ~~Plant bulbs in well-drained, organic soil. After flowering, gradually withhold water so plants go dormant in summer. Keep moderately dry until autumn.
These long-blooming perennials from South Africa are easy to grow. The star-shaped flowers grow in large, round clusters that appear intermittently throughout the spring and summer. The grassy foliage increases each year to form substantial clumps resembling dwarf Agapanthus. Use in mixed plantings with perennials and small shrubs, or in rock or dry gardens. Evergreen in mild climates. The leaves emit a strong, garlicky odor when damaged. Wear gloves to prune as the smell is hard to remove from hands. A lesser-known species, T. fragrans, has wider leaves and sweetly scented flowers. ~~Easy to start by division. Like full sun. Frost damage at 20 to 25║ F.
Native to the American prairies, showy Gayfeathers grow near Rudbeckia and Echinacea. Butterflies enjoy their tall, plume-like, white or purple flowers which appear in summer from the tops of leaves. Mix with other perennials in the back of borders or in cutting gardens. ~~Sold as bareroot plants in winter or in containers. Lift and divide the fleshy roots in spring or autumn.
Widely-planted, the hundreds of Geranium varieties are robust plants which bloom in summer and autumn. The flowers come in shades of red, purple, pink, white, orange and bicolours, in bold or intricate shapes. Leaves are velvety, colourfully-marked, variegated or scented. Zonal geraniums, whose leaves have zones of contrasting colour, bloom non-stop. Many varieties have distinctive leaves marked with white, silver, bronze and gold patterns. Use as centrepieces, in window boxes or containers with other sun-loving annuals such as Petunias, trailing Vinca and Sweet Alyssum. Use Ivy-leaved Geraniums with trailing stems in hanging baskets, raised beds or as a ground cover on unused banks. Scented Geraniums are best indoors, out in pots or planted along walkways where their scent can be fully appreciated. Use leaves to flavour cakes and jellies. ~~Pinch growth tips early to encourage bushiness, and use them to start new plants. Or buy cell packs in spring. Plant only Ivy-leaved Geraniums in partial shade. In mild winter climates, plants are perennial. Elsewhere, put in a sunny window indoors in autumn. Watch for geranium (tobacco) budworm.
Rich tones bloom coral, gold, primrose and cream on this narrow-petaled, most elegant of Daisies. A favourite of gardeners and florists alike, theyÆre perfect plants for the summer cutting garden. Like excellent drainage, deep watering between dry periods and fertilizer. Double-flowering types available.~~Buy plants or divide large clumps. Difficult from seed. If you try, barely cover the seeds with soil as they need light to germinate. In cold winter areas, bring pots inside for winter colour. Watch for snails and slugs.
The subtle Germanders provide leaf texture and colour to rock gardens, edging, herb gardens, containers and parking strips. Drought-tolerant once established, shrubs thrive in poor, rocky soils in sun and heat. One variety, Teucrium marum, Cat Thyme, has tiny, fussy leaves and small, purple flowers that cats canÆt resist. Teucrium hircanicum is grown for its vibrant purple flower spikes. Teucrium prostratum makes a good, small-scale ground cover. The delightful Wood Germander, Teucrium scorodonia crispum, has frilly, curled leaf edges. Can be used as a casual hedge.~~Sold in containers throughout the growing season.
One of the most popular flowering bulbs, their tall, magnificent spikes of flowers are excellent when cut. You can also buy hardy, small-flowered dwarf types for smaller spaces. Spikes are available in many colours and can have more than 20 ruffled and flaring flowers in solids and bicolours. Plant in groups for masses of colour, or in containers. Grow low, mounding plants to cover shorter stems.~~In cold winter climates, dig up and store bulbs in a frost free location. Plant after frost in spring at least 10cm deep. In mild winter areas, plant autumn through spring. When cutting flowers, leave at least 4 leaves on the plant to ensure next yearÆs flowers.
Cheerful, the multi-petaled yellow or orange flowers look like Ranunculus. Their warm colours mix nicely with the blue of Campanulas. Excellent cut flowers depending on the variety, blooms are 4cm to 10cm across. They grow in moist and swampy areas and have thick fibrous roots. Choose plant location carefully as they grow slowly and don't like being moved. They also don't like heat, drought or much sun, so plant in shady areas, especially near pools. Watch for aphids. Buy in containers in spring.
These deciduous and evergreen shrubs are grown for their flowers, foliage or edible fruit, which attracts birds. Spineless types are called currants, the others are called gooseberries. Ribes are host to a destructive rust that attacks 5-needled pines, so several states forbid them. Before you plant Ribes, check with state authorities to see if they have been outlawed. Start from seed or cuttings. Give shade and some supplemental water when planted away from the coast.
Some of these flowering perennials are low ground covers which are also good in hanging pots. Others make fine cut flowers. All enjoy moist places near ponds or streams. One type, the easy-to-grow, invasive, Loosestrife (L. punctata), is more manageable in harsh northern climates or in the dry West. Cold or drought prevents the ground cover from becoming weedy. ~~Buy in containers and divide for new plants.
These 250 reed-like grasses grow in the temperate Northern Hemisphere and have long leaves that are linear and flat or channeled. They flower with dense, compressed spikelets in the summer.
Tough, vigorously growing ornamental grass which spreads by underground rhizomes. Cut back hard when leaves look unkept. Grown for its showy, varieged leaves. Airy flower clusters are insignificant. Many cultivars are available.
Fine-textured foliage, long thin flower clusters and drought tolerance make these evergreen shrubs and trees popular. The flowers attract hummingbirds. Naturalized in southern Florida, the Silk-Oak is fast-growing. Hybrids and species abound, though some cannot tolerate salty soils or poor water quality. Choose types that fit your garden conditions. They don't do well near lawns.~~Well-drained, even rocky, soil is a must. Don't use high-phosphate fertilizers. Prone to leaf-eating insects, scale and mites. Diseases are few.
Good as shade trees or planted in informal groves, their star-shaped leaves turn red, yellow, orange or purple in autumn. Their round spiny fruits are shaped like the maces that medieval knights once carried. Their fruits contain the gummy sap that inspired their common name, Sweet Gum. Ridged bark resembles cork. They tolerate coastal conditions if sheltered from strong winds. Not recommended as street trees due to honeydew drip from aphids and scale, plus the litter from their fruit. Water deeply during dry spells to promote growth and deep roots. Shallow roots can crack pavement. Iron chlorosis is a problem in high pH soils.
Large clusters of tiny flowers form misty clouds above branches with small rosettes of leaves. Easy to grow, BabyÆs Breath makes excellent cut flowers and are available with single or double, white or pink flowers. Best in cool summer climates and full sun. Use in rock gardens or trailing over the top of dry rock walls.~~Start by seed or cuttings. DonÆt transplant easily. Protect from gophers, slugs and snails. For rebloom, cut back flowering stems of perennial types before seed clusters form.
Funnel-shaped flowers open into brightly-coloured petals in spring on these South African natives. Sword-shaped leaves and stems reach 15 to 30cm high. Not cold hardy, so grow under glass in northern climates. Use in borders, rock gardens and containers in mild climates. Good cut flowers. S. grandiflora has yellow or purple blooms.~~Dig up and store bulbs before first frost.
These thorny, densely flowering small trees have hardwood trunks that resemble muscles. White, pink or red flower clusters are followed by small fruits which attract birds. Some fruits are juicy enough for jelly. Autumn foliage turns brilliant red or orange. After leaf drop, the wide-spreading branches are picturesque. Plant in a shrubbery border, behind lower shrubs, or as hedges or lawn trees. Don't plant where small children can get hurt by thorns. Thrive in open woodlands and in almost any soil. Need winter chill. Prune to shape.
The Ling or Scots Heather group consists of one evergreen shrub of which there are over 1000 cultivars. Similar in appearance to Erica (Heath or Heather) species, but Calluna's flower petals are somewhat concealed by a pink calyx. Heathers of the Calluna, Erica and Daboecia genera add interest to a garden year round. For some, their golden foliage turns burnt orange in winter. Others flower for a long period during summer, autumn, and winter. Flowers come in a variety of colours; some are bicoloured. Use double flower varieties for drying. Best in moderate climates, especially near oceans. Prefer well-drained, acidic soil and require little care;
It climbs over walls, rocks, tree trunks and trellises, and carpets the ground. Its small aerial roots cling to everything. Ivy often naturalizes and spreads throughout the landscape. Older plants produce small green flowers and poisonous, bluish-black berries. They need shade and shelter to prevent winter damage in cold climates. For new plants, pieces of stem root readily in water. Water deeply during drought. Prune in spring to control growth and shape. Mulch in summer for weed control.
Short-lived, 5-petaled flowers of yellow, rose, red, white or purple with yellow or orange centres bloom on this trailing, evergreen ground cover. Flowers open from early summer to mid-summer. Earlier-blooming types have larger flowers than late-bloomers. Small leaves are hairy and soft. Use this vigorous Mediterranean native in rock gardens in full sun and dry soil.~~Best from cuttings, though also started by division and seed. Trim after first bloom to encourage heavy autumn flowering. Protect from harsh winter temperatures.
Varying widely in size and character, these tough, sun-tolerant plants need lots of space. They have big, bold flowers and can spread rapidly. They include important seed oil and food crops such as the Common Sunflower and Jerusalem Artichoke, plus several ornamental perennials. Sunflowers are big-leafed, sturdy plants that need full sun and moist soils. Seeds attract birds. Perennial species grow rapidly, forming sizable clumps that can become invasive. Plant in large gardens or parks.~~Start by division or seed. All bloom in late summer and autumn.
Where bold, sunflower-like blooms have plenty of room to grow, these North American native perennials show off. These 90cm to 1.5m tall plants are easy to grow. Their long-stalks and 5 to 7.5cm wide blooms in late summer to early autumn make them excellent cut flowers. Cold hardy. Single-flowered types are more drought-tolerant than double-flowered. Prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Use for informal borders or in wild gardens. Plant self-sows.~~Start by seed and division. Seeds sown outdoors in ordinary dry soil will produce flowers for cutting the second year.
Their large clusters of scented flowers and crinkled, purple-veined leaves make these old-fashioned subshrubs popular with florists. Best grown as summer annuals, they can be perennial in mild climates. Use in borders or pots, or prune side branches into a tree shape on a trellis.~~Water container plants freely when in full growth, less at other times. Fertilize during growing season. Prune tips in spring to promote bushy growth. Can be started from cuttings.
Highly-prized, long-lived perennials with evergreen foliage. Winter to early spring-blooming flowers come in a wide range of colours. Excellent for perennial borders, woodland gardens and as cut flowers. Plant with Azaleas, Rhododendrons and ferns. The Helleborus Niger is called the Christmas Rose because legend has it that it bloomed on the first Christmas Eve.~~Slow to re-establish after transplant. Grows slowly by seed. Divide in late summer or autumn.
Among the most graceful of the coniferous, narrow leaved, evergreen trees growing in North America. Mostly gigantic, pyramidal trees with unusually graceful foliage. Branches are horizontal or drooping. Leaves are needle-like, flattened and narrowed at the base. Small brown cones, 1 to 1.5" long, hang down from the branches. Best in acid soil, good rainfall, and high summer humidity. Protect from hot sun and wind. Shallow rooted and therfore easily transplanted with a ball of soil around the roots. Can be sheared to excellent hedges. Among the finest evergreen trees for park, lawn, or specimen plantings, as well as windbreaks.
These up to 1.8m tall evergreen shrubs bloom non-stop in mild winter climates like their native Australia. It's grown indoors or in containers where winters are cold. Flower petals are lilac or purple-red, with a deeper spot at the base. Blooms only last a few days, but are produced in abundance. The 7.5cm leaves are lobed and deeply toothed. Drought-tolerant once established.~~Pinch or prune for compact growth.
A tropical native with large showy blooms, Amaryllis can only be grown outdoors in zones 9 - 11. Elsewhere, grown indoors or in greenhouses for winter bloom, they put on a magical display of fast growth, climaxing in a tremendous bouquet of lily-like flowers on a single stalk. Leaves may appear with bloom or after. Flowers come in red, pink, white, salmon and near-orange, and some are marked or striped.
Leathery leaves with netted veins cover these easy-to-grow ferns. Their shiny foliage contrasts nicely with other ferns. Plant the rapid growers outdoors in mild climates in moderately loose soil. Need protection in northern regions. Often grown in containers indoors. In warm rooms, give extra humidity. Remove faded fronds.
Used to decorate many a home in winter, Hollies are perhaps the most popular of all ornamental berry plants. Their showy berries often last for several months and attract birds. Most compact and fruitful in sun, Hollies will tolerate shade. On many Hollies, fruit is produced on female plants and pollen on male plants. To ensure plentiful fruit, plant both sexes near each other. Hollies range from 30cm dwarfs to 15m trees. Useful as a hedge, barrier or background plant. Bugs can cause problems, but diseases are rare.
Famous even in ShakespeareÆs time, their round, silvery seed pods which appear in winter attract more attention than their violet or white, often fragrant, spring flowers. Used in dried arrangements, the pods remain on the stems after leaves and flowers are gone. These tough, easy to grow, plants reach 46cm to 90cm high and have heart-shaped, sawtooth-edged leaves. Likes sandy, damp, shady places. Self-sows, so can become invasive. Called Honesty because the seeds can be seen through the translucent pods.~~Start from seed.
Hostas, or Plantain Lilies, are the most dramatic and versatile of all foliage herb perennials. Their leaves are green to yellow to blue-green in colour and range from finger-length to large frisbee in size. There are approximately 36 clump-forming species with more than 1,000 cultivars and hybrids. Extremely hardy and long-lived, most thrive in shade. However, several varieties grow in full sun except in hot summer climates. Their roots compete against well-established plants. Easily transplanted and divided, HostaÆs only weakness is slugs and snails in mild winter climates.
Fast-growing, bean-like vines are excellent for screens. Have small flowers and fruit. Perennials, often grown as annuals. Need support for climbing. Grows and flowers best in warm summer climates. Likes sun and good drainage. ~~Start by seed sown long after last spring frost.
For sweet spring fragrance, a gardener's thoughts turn to Hyacinths. Hardy bulbs, flower clusters bloom in a variety of colours. Plant them with other spring bulbs and grow them in containers outdoors or indoors. You can force bulbs to bloom in winter by starting them indoors. ~~In cold winter climates, plant in early autumn; in warmer areas plant mid-autumn to early winter. Prevent bulb rot with excellent drainage and no fertilizer. Protect emerging plants from late spring frosts with mulch, hay, or other covering. Bulbs grown for a second year will not flower as well. In warmer climates, hyacinths may not receive enough cold chilling and should be discarded and replanted with new bulbs.
This is a wide-ranging group of evergreens and climbing species that includes the old-fashioned, ever-popular, deciduous shrub. Plant the fast-grower in a mass in partial shade or in tubs, and be sure to water heavily. Adding aluminum sulfate to make the soil more acid produces blue-tinted flowers, while adding lime creates neutral to alkaline soil which favours pink-tinted flowers. Remove old flowers and deadwood to control shape immediately after flowering.
Covered with masses of small fragrant white flowers in spring, these evergreen ground covers are excellent for edging, rock gardens and containers, especially in combination with spring flowering bulbs. Slow to moderate in growth, plants form 30 to 60cm wide mounds. Drought-tolerant once established. The many varieties include æLittle Gem,Æ a 15cm high dwarf, æPurity,Æ intermediate-size with large flowers, and æSnowflake,Æ which flowers in spring and autumn. The deep green leaves have a neat, clean look. Shear plants after bloom to keep compact. Cut back hard every few years.
This unusual, deciduous perennial has deep crimson-red leaf blades whose colours intensify in autumn. Plants spread slowly to form 30cm wide clumps. Plant in masses in perennial borders, along ponds and streams or in containers. Use as contrast to coarse-textured plants and those with dark foliage. In hot summer areas, best in partial shade. In cooler areas, need full sun for best foliage colour. ~~Start by division in early spring. Cut back branches with dead leaves to ground in winter or early spring.
Exotic trumpet-shaped flowers grace this group of perennials from Asia. There are 14 species of which one, Incarvillea delavayi, is commonly available. Others are Incarvillea mairei grandiflora with larger pink flowers and Incarvillea arguta with smaller pink flowers. The flowers are usually pink, but a rare white version is sometimes available.~~Easy to grow from seed. Available as bareroot plants in late winter or in containers in spring. Watch for root rot in waterlogged winter soil. Need some shade in hot, humid areas. If you arenÆt saving seed, remove the flower stalks when spent. Allow foliage to die back naturally. Lift and store roots in soil in cold climates.
Their dainty spring blooms come in a rainbow of colours and are excellent for flower gardens, containers and cutting gardens. Commonly grown types include English, Spanish and Dutch hybrid irises. The dwarf Violet-Scented Iris (I. Reticulata), with purple flowers edged in gold, is often grown in rock gardens.~~Plant dormant bulbs along with Tulips and Daffodils. Allow to become relatively dry during summer, until growth resumes in the autumn or early spring.
Extremely easy to grow and divide, their rainbow of papery petals and fuzzy ôbeardsö that decorate the lower petals appeal to every flower lover. The large, elegant flowers come in every colour except true red, and some have a grape-like fragrance. Heights range from dwarf to medium and tall, 23cm to 1.2m Some types bloom in spring and autumn. Check specialty catalogues for hundreds of varieties.~~The fleshy divisions called rhizomes are available in the autumn. Plant immediately, as they dry out quickly. Keep the rhizomeÆs surface exposed, except in hot areas, where you should cover them lightly with soil. Cut back foliage on established plants only after it starts to die back naturally. Divide every 3 to 4 years after bloom to maintain vigor. Watch for rot in heavy soil and Iris borer.
One of the easiest types of Iris to grow, the Siberian Iris has narrow, dark green upright foliage and 2 to 5 flowers per stem. The clumps increase quickly to form substantial tufts, which rarely need to be divided. One drawbackùthe foliage sometimes hides the slightly shorter flowers. Shear foliage back a little just before flowering time to expose them. ~~Buy bareroot plants in the winter or in containers in the spring. If buying bareroot, make sure the roots are moist, not dried out.
About 60 species of these woodland plants are used in moist shaded areas and humusy soils. The familiar type, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, is from eastern North America. The Asian natives have unusual, fantastically shaped flowers and are available through specialty nurseries. Mass in beds, borders or wild gardens. Plant in well-drained soil to prevent rot. Most are winter hardy.~~Prone to snails. Start in autumn by planting tuberous roots deeply, as roots grow upward from the tops, or sow seed. Takes several years to produce flowers.
Deciduous, woody-stemmed climbers useful for training up trees and masonry walls; rootlike holdfasts hold onto surfaces; frost hardy; flowers best in sun, yet will grow against a north-facing wall; requires well-drained soil; tie young plants to supports;
Witch Hazel offers striking winter colour with its bright, fragrant bloom when most other plants are dormant. The small but showy frost-proof flowers open on leafless branches, and clusters of narrow petals last for several weeks. Blooms on the many flowering cultivars range from yellow to orange to red. Red flowering types also have the best red autumn leaf colours. An extract from the bark is used as an astringent, and on bruises and sprains.~~Take care where you plant, for Witch Hazel grows 2.4m to 4.5m high. Add organic matter to soil when planting, and mulch to keep the soil cool and moist.
From tiny 18mm Johnny-jump-ups to giant pansy strains with flowers 13cm across, Violas are beloved garden flowers. Their cheerful, smiling blossoms come in many bright and deep-toned colours, in solid and multi-coloured flowers, with contrasting splashes of colour and finely detailed whisker-like markings.~~Use in masses as edging or bedding in combination with spring flowering bulbs. Excellent in woodland and rock gardens, containers and hanging baskets. Flowers are edible and can be used for flavouring sweets, tea, cakes and drinks. Johnny-jump-ups add colour to salads.~~Violas love cool weather and continue bloom after light frosts. In hot summer climates, remove plants in early summer. Best in partial shade, but tolerate full sun in cool summer climates. In mild winter climates, plant in autumn for winter and spring bloom. Watch for spider mites.
One of the best evergreens for hot, poor, dry soils in city conditions, Junipers are found in almost any height, width, shape and foliage colour. They range from ground covers and shrubs to 19.5m tall cone-bearing trees. Ground covers include J. procumbens, J. sargentii and J. tamariscifolia. Shrubs include Pfitzer, Blue Star and Armstrong junipers. Trees include J. scopulorum and J. Virginiana. Most have round, blue or reddish fruits that follow their small white flowers. Foliage colour, generally blue- or grey-green, may change with the seasons. Requires well-drained soils. Won't tolerate shade or waterlogged soil. Watch for spider mites, aphids, twig borers and Phomopsis twig blight, which kills new shoots in early wet springs. Prune or shear to shape. Easily transplanted.
These drought-tolerant, Mediterranean natives have dense clusters of small, fragrant, white or red flowers. The late-summer bloomers grow in the poorest of well-drained soils, but dislike damp shade. Excellent cut flowers. Can be invasive as it self-sows readily, so pull new seedlings in beds and borders. Best on dry slopes, banks or walls where it can naturalize.~~Start by seed or division in spring. Remove stems once theyÆve flowered to prolong bloom.
Grown for their brightly-coloured rosettes of leaves, Ornamental Cabbages and Kales are related to their vegetable counterparts. Marbled, veined or edged in contrasting colours of rose, pink, white, cream and bluish-green, the leavesÆ colours intensify toward the centre of the plant. The yellow flowers are inconspicuous. In comparison, flowering Kale have looser heads and curlier, fringed leaves. ~~Excellent for autumn bedding or containers, leaves' colours intensify after first frost. Plants are good in combination with other autumn flowers, such as Asters, Cyclamen and Chrysanthemum. Can last through mild winters, but form a long unsightly flowering stalk in warm weather. Watch for cabbage pests, including cabbage worm, cabbage lopper and aphids.
This single- or multi-trunked tree slowly grows into an oval shape. Its foliage gives dappled shade. Bark is shaggy. Start by seed or cuttings of green wood in the spring. Protect from hot drying winds. Mulch to keep soil cool and moist.
These relatively tough and carefree 90cn to 1.5m tall, deciduous shrubs look great all year. They have bright golden-yellow flowers for 1 week in spring and graceful foliage in summer, and are yellow with light green, twiggy branches in winter. A few flowers bloom in summer and autumn. Plant in masses in shrub borders, woodland and wild gardens. Varieties are available with single flowers and white-variegated leaves. Drought-tolerant once established, they do best in partial shade but tolerate full sun in cool climates. Cut branches in winter are excellent in flower arrangements. Remove old shoots and branches to shape. Overfertilization causes excessive growth and few flowers.
In summer, these graceful trees blend showers of clustered yellow blossoms with fresh green foliage. Showy seed capsules resemble Chinese paper lanterns. Use as shade or street trees. They adapt to most soils and climates, tolerating short droughts, wind, heat and air pollution. Roots are deep but not invasive. Start by seed or root cuttings. The wood is weak. Prune damaged wood after wind or ice storm.
Reminiscent of Wisteria, these trees' pendulous bright yellow flower clusters grow 50cm long. Olive-green bark and bright green compound leaves add to their ornamental beauty. Their brown leathery pods last until winter. Excellent as accent trees in mass plantings. However, plant where children and animals cannot reach toxic seeds and 3-part leaves. Tolerate city conditions. Trouble-free where hardy. Shelter trees from drying winter winds and hot afternoon sun. Prune after flowering. Mulch to keep soil moist and cool. Remove brown seedpods to promote tree's health.
These small multi-branched shrubs to small single-trunked trees are known for their ornamental flowers, bark and foliage. The large showy clusters of flowers range from white to pink to red to purple. The upright-arching trunks have grey to brown bark, which peels away to reveal the smooth pale-pink inner bark. Plant against a light-coloured wall for the best effect.
Grown for its attractive variegated foliage and vigorous spreading ability, the several Yellow Archangels vary slightly in their vigor and colouration. Attractive spilling out of containers or as a ground cover, their silvery leaves brighten dark or shady places. Whorls of yellow flowers appear in early summer. Shear back when plants look ragged.
Graceful Larches are some of the few cone-bearing trees that drop their colourful autumn foliage. Once their clusters of needle-like leaves autumn, the rose-shaped cones remain, dotting the branches through winter. In spring, soft needles emerge a vibrant young green. Among the hardiest of trees, they grow in almost any soil. Prefer cool summers, and need winter chill. Sow seeds in shaded beds in autumn or spring. Seedlings transplant easily. Clean up twig and cone debris under trees. Give supplemental water during dry periods. Prone to canker, rust, woolly aphids and Larch casebearer. Watch for mistletoe.
Used in soaps, perfumes, sachets and even fine varnishes, Lavender has been popular for centuries. Its strong fragrance makes it good for scented crafts. The spiky flowers are usually purple or lavender, but there are white and pink forms. Grown in herb or Mediterranean-style gardens as hedges or edging, these grey-green shrubs need little care or water. Good companion plant to Cistus, Helianthemum, Nepeta, Santolina and others that grow in similar conditions.~~Shear back flower stalks when blooms die. Where Lavenders donÆt overwinter, grow them in containers that can be brought indoors during the cold period. Because they seed themselves freely and cross-breed with other plants, new varieties appear often.
This hollyhock relative includes both annuals (L. trimestris) and several evergreen shrubs. All are easy to grow and become tall fast. Some, like L. assurgentiflora, can reach 3m the first year and provide quick, colourful screening.~~Like other fast-growers though, they tend toward rank, weedy growth if not cut back.
No cutting garden would be complete without statice. Dried flower arrangements require it. This popular group of flowers is as useful in the vase as it is in the garden. The annual varieties come in a rainbow of colours while the perennials are usually lavender, blue or white. Besides making a good cut flower, statice is an easy and showy garden plant, useful in perennial and annual borders as well as containers. They enjoy full sun in northern zones but need some shade in the South. Annual statice is purchased in cell packs in the spring. Perennial varieties are available in containers throughout the growing season. Both types are easy from seed.
Mornings wouldn't be the same without juices, like orange or grapefruit, from citrus trees. And summers without lemonade? These shrubby trees produce edible tropical fruits. They have thorny stems and fragrant white flowers that attract bees. Grow in warm climates outdoors or in containers brought in during winter. All types need citrus fertilizer, which has supplemental amounts of iron, magnesium and zinc. Ornamental and dwarf varieties are available. Protect from strong winds and frost.
With its warm orange-red flowers and long blooming season, use in sunny beds, natural gardens and rock gardens. Plant in masses or loose colonies. The large clusters of speckled, 4 to 5cm, star-shaped flowers rise above sword-shaped leaves. In autumn, the seed capsules burst open to display clusters of seeds that look like blackberries. Use long-lasting dried seed pods in arrangements. ~~Start easily by seed or divisions in spring. Likes sun or partial shade.
These easy-to-grow, spring-blooming perennials have showy, yellow, Daisy-like flowers on long stalks with heart-shaped leaves. Great cut flowers. Plant in borders with other perennials where nearby foliage hides dying summer leaves. Also good with tulips. Like partial shade in hot climates or northern climates, and tolerate heavy soil. The common name refers to the Asian nativesÆ practice of dipping arrows in its juices when hunting leopards. ~~Start by seed or division. Young plants bloom most generously. Remove old flowers to encourage second bloom. Divide every 2 to 3 years in August or spring, when plants are dormant.
One of the quickest and easiest vegetables to grow, lettuce thrives in cool, moist weather. Varieties include Iceberg, Green or Red Leaf, tender Boston or Bibb and upright crisp Romaine. Leaf types are easier to grow than head lettuce which goes to seed in hot weather.~~Needs full sun, or part shade in warm weather. Plant among taller vegetables such as onions or broccoli. Fill in with lettuce seedlings after other vegetables are harvested. Sow seeds at 2-week intervals starting in early spring until 1╜ to 2 months before hot weather starts. For autumn harvest, sow in late summer and early autumn. Grown almost year-round in warm winter climates. Harvest leaf lettuce leaf-by-leaf or as entire plants. Harvest Boston lettuce once loose heads form, and head lettuce after heads are firm.
Small, white, bell-shaped flowers, with distinct green markings at the end of each petal, bloom in late winter or early spring. Excellent for naturalizing in woodland and rock gardens or under shrubs and trees. Easy to grow and permanent; plant bulbs with Tulips and Daffodils. Dig up bulblets formed by established plants in late summer when plants go dormant, and replant. Divide only when plants get crowded.
Perfect for rock gardens, the flowers on these succulent perennials make a tidy but eye-catching show in spring. While prized by lovers of alpine plants, Lewisias have a tendency to rot. They need excellent drainage, and are well-suited to containers. Add fine gravel to the soil. Deciduous varieties need a drying out period after flowering, so water infrequently. Evergreen types need some shade. Sold in containers or start from seed.
This group includes perennial low shrubs and plants grown for their leaves and used in bedding, containers and borders. The annuals, such as the commonly planted Strawflower, are mainstays for dried arrangements. Both are excellent for hot, sunny locations, as they need little water once established and require good drainage. Strawflower blooms look like small, brightly-coloured Sunflowers. Use standard, tall varieties in cutting gardens, as they tend to be leggy and arenÆt good-looking garden plants. Dwarf varieties, 25cm to 30cm high, bloom in many colours including red, pink, yellow and white.~~Start Strawflowers from seed sown in the ground, uncovered, as they need light to germinate. For dried arrangements, harvest when flowers are full open, then hang upside down in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
A dramatic foliage perennial with large, deep green, rounded leaves and tall spikes of yellow and orange flowers. Plant with fine-leafed perennials such as ornamental grasses to highlight the textural contrasts. Easy to grow with abundant moisture. Plant in afternoon shade in hot climates. ~~Start by cuttings or division.
Perhaps the most popular of all fragrant blooming shrubs, their showy, long flower clusters make excellent cut flowers. Blossoms come in a bluish-lilac colour, and many others. Best where winters are freezing, but some varieties bloom with mild cold.~~Remove dead flowers just above where buds form. Prune lightly to control height and invigorate mature woody plants. Watch for Lilac leaf miner, scale and Lilac borer.
One of the most celebrated of flowers, Lilies are an elegant and diverse group of plants spectacular in borders, woodland gardens, rock gardens and containers. Lily species and hybrids range in blooming times from spring through autumn. Hybrids are generally hardier and easier to grow. The most popular hybrids are Asiatic, which flower upward; Trumpet, whose name indicates the shape of their flowers; and Oriental, which come from Asian species. ~~Lilies thrive with moisture-soaked, not watered from overhead, to 15cm deep. Bulbs sold in spring and autumn. Planting depth varies by flower type and bulb size, so get instructions. Gophers love these bulbs. Watch for virus and mosaic transmitted by aphids and destroy infected plants. Prune faded flowers, but cut stalks back only after stems and leaves turn yellow. Lilies never go completely dormant, so continue to water, but lightly. Divide in spring or autumn. In areas with little winter frost, some lilies need yearly replanting or dig them up and refrigerated for a least 8 weeks.
For some interesting late-season colour, try the charming Toad Lilies in your woodland or shady garden. The unusual spotted flowers of lavender, white or yellow bloom along arching stems like decorated garlands. The plant spreads underground to form colonies with stems to 90cm high. Toad Lilies make unique additions to flower arrangements. ~~They like moist soil, prefer shade in hot areas and some sun in cool areas. Available in containers in spring or by division.
With a fragrance that has inspired perfumes, Lily-of-the-Valley has been grown for countless generations. Each cluster of small white bell-shaped flowers is framed by large, upright, low-growing leaves. Plant along walkways and in containers where their fragrance can be best appreciated during spring bloom. Excellent as ground cover in woodland or rock gardens. However, all parts of the plant are poisonous.~~Needs adequate cold chilling, and grows best in zones 3 to 7. Plant in autumn. Rootstock can be started inside for winter and early spring bloom. Once established, will form large clumps which live many years.
Versatile and easy-to-grow, thriving in shade, partial sun, and sun in cool climates, the only maintenance Lily Turf requires is a complete ôhaircutö in late winter and protection from snails. The white or purple flowers resemble the spikes of large Grape Hyacinths and last well as cut flowers. Use these grasslike perennials as small-scale ground cover, edging and as accents around pools, dry stream beds and rock gardens. Can be grown indoors. ~~Available in containers year-round. Cut back when foliage looks shaggy, and divide before new growth starts in spring.
Dried, annual Statice is prized in flower arrangements and wreaths because flowers keep their colour. In the garden, the long-blooming, small, papery flowers cluster in apricot, rose-blue, white, purple and yellow over waves of large leaves. ~~Also known as Sea Lavender, this Mediterranean native likes coastal climates and is somewhat drought-tolerant. It flowers best with cooler temperatures, but can be grown nearly everywhere. DonÆt over-water. Watch for rot in humid areas. Cut flowers to encourage more blooms. For drying, cut flowers after they develop full colour.
The long, showy flowers on this exceptionally drought-tolerant, long-bloomer resemble a lion's ear. They appear as dense whorls in white, orange, orange-red or yellow on hairy stems. Display in beds or in front of shrubbery. Excellent for warm-winter climates, but may grow in a cool greenhouse for winter blooms. Thrives near the ocean. ~~On perennial varieties, cut back old stems to encourage new growth. Attractive cut flowers.
Annual lobelias are low-growing, compact, spreading plants which produce masses of small vibrant flowers in shades of purple, blue, white, pink and red. Excellent for edging, rock gardens, or cascading down hanging baskets or containers. ~~Best grown in cool climates. In hot summer areas, plant in partial shade. Slow from seed, so start with plants in the spring. In mild winters, plant will self-sow and flower again in spring. Shear after blooms fade to promote reflowering.
Old-fashioned favourites, the dainty, spreading plants are covered with clusters of small, sweetly fragrant flowers. Bees love the lavender, purple, rose and white blossoms. Plant as a ground cover annual, as edging, between stepping stones, in rock gardens, containers, and hanging baskets. Sometimes comes as part of wildflower seed packs. Invaluable companions to spring-flowering bulbs because they bloom long after others are finished. ~~Flowers continuously in warm winter climates, and seeds itself in all areas. However, is best in cool weather. In hot summer areas, plant in partial shade for richer colours. Once flowers fade, shear lightly to promote a whole new crop of flowers and keep plant from becoming leggy.
Few flowers rival their fanciful colour selection, sweet fragrance and elegance in flower borders and wild gardens. Droplets of water on the palmlike leaves look like clear beads on green velvet. The Russell Hybrids are best known. Shrubby types include the yellow-flowered Lupinus arboreus. ~~Prefer cool temperatures. Buy in cell packs in autumn or from seeds which require soaking in warm water overnight. Remove spent flower stalks. Protect from snails. Replace hybrid lupines yearly since they are not long-lived.
These shrubs are grown for their showy, lilac- or violet-coloured fruit, which lasts for 2 to 3 weeks in late autumn. Best fruiting occurs when planted in groups. Most die back close to the ground in very cold climates, but often start again in spring to flower and fruit that season.~~Fruit are borne on new growth, so in warm climates, prune to 15cm above ground in early spring. Pruning also prevents rank growth. Feed with low-nitrogen fertilizers to avoid fast, leggy growth.
Hardy in poor soils, plant varieties of old-fashioned Campion in flower borders, cutting gardens and wild gardens. Flowers range from rich magenta and orange to the softest pastels to white. ~~Easily grown from seed, they may be sown in wildflower fashion in autumn or spring. Perennial types are available in cell packs or larger containers in autumn or spring.
Nothing can compare to the taste of a homegrown, ripened-on-the-vine tomato. In all their colours, shapes and sizes, tomatoes are easy to grow. Cherry tomatoes produce hundreds of small fruits and grow well in containers. Choose early bearing types, such as 'Early Girl' and 'Quick Pick,' where summers are cool or short. Beefsteak tomatoes with 1-to 2-lb. fruits need long, hot summers. For tomato sauce, use varieties such as 'Roma' with heavy-fleshed fruit. Try the small pear-shaped tomatoes; the less-acidic, yellow-fruited varieties; and pink or white varieties. Determinate tomato varieties, such as 'Patio,' are smaller, bushy plants with fruit that ripen quickly, but produce fewer tomatoes per plant. Indeterminate tomatoes, such as 'Big Boy,' grow until the weather cools. Their larger crops take longer to ripen. ~~ Choose varieties resistant to fusarium, verticillium, nematodes and tobacco mosaic virus. Watch out for hornworms. To encourage roots, remove lower leaves, and plant seedlings with up to ╛ of stem in the ground. For larger, earlier tomatoes, pinch outside shoots. Train large plants on stakes or cages to keep them compact, and keep away fruit from ground moisture and pests. 5cm to 7.5cm of mulch keep fruit dry and evens soil moisture to prevent blossom end rot, a hard, brown spot on bottom of fruit. Keep soil well- and evenly-watered to prevent fruit from cracking. Harvest when fruit has developed full colour.
Unusual bulbs with intricate spidery or Lily-like blooms seem to magically appear in the autumn after leaves have died down in summer. Strap-like leaves appear in spring. Several species are available with red, yellow and pink flowers. Bulbs are poisonous. Grow in bedding or containers.~~Plant with Tulips and Daffodils. Let dry out in summer.
Though one type bears the state flower of both Mississippi and Louisiana, Magnolias, with their dazzling citrus-like fragrance, perfume more than just the southern states. While they favour ample summer moisture, at least one of the many varieties can be grown in every climate. These mostly deciduous trees and shrubs come in many sizes and shapes, ranging from the shrubby Star Magnolia to the giant Southern Bay Magnolia. The large, opulent flowers range from white and yellow to pink and purple.~~Pest and disease problems are few, but Magnolias can become deficient in various nutrients. Place in a protected area without direct southern sun. Plant where there's little foot traffic, as shallow roots don't like compacted soil. Choose plant location carefully, as many grow large, and most varieties don't like to be moved. Mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Frost can kill early blooms.
These easy-to-grow, cold-hardy shrubs are grown for their compound leaves edged with spiny teeth which look good all year. Their spiky clusters of fragrant, yellow flowers develop into blue-black fruit which attracts birds. Some are drought-tolerant and have reddish to purplish autumn colour. ~~Start by seed or cuttings.
White to deep magenta flowers with a dark spot on the base grace this group of evergreen plants and low shrubs from South Africa. Leaves are heart-shaped or lobed. Water during the growing and blooming seasons and less at other times. Sometimes sold as Malvastrum.
These bold plants really show off in the back of perennial or shrub borders or the wild garden. Their crepe paper-like flowers resemble Hollyhocks and range from white to purple to lavender-pink. Some Mallows have deeply cut, lacy leaves, and others have large, rounded leaves. All have flattened, round seed clusters which resemble tiny cheese rounds. Easily grown in zones 4 to 7 in full sun and deep soil. In other zones, they may suffer from rust and caterpillar attack. Sold in containers in the spring. Grown from seed, they often bloom the first year. Self-sow freely.
These tropical evergreen or deciduous, twining vines have showy flowers and a milky sap. Plant these generous long-bloomers outdoors in warm climates only. Fast-growing, they need a trellis or other support, though some are trained to grow in hanging baskets and tubs.~~Start by cuttings. Plant in site protected from summer sun. Pinch to growth to encourage bushiness. Watch for spider mites.
Native to Mexico and Central America, few flowers are as reliable and more widely-and easily-grown than Marigolds. Their non-stop flowers bloom in intense shades and mixtures of orange, yellow, maroon, mahogany red, yellow and creamy white. The pompom-shaped flowers are single, double or crested. Plants come in dwarf (15cm to 20cm), medium (23cm to 90cm)and tall (90cm to 1.2m) sizes. The tall varieties are called African Marigolds, and the smaller varieties, French Marigolds. The super-flowering Triploid Marigolds are a cross between the two. The Signet Marigold is not widely grown, but has many small flowers and graceful form. Flowers have a strong, almost unpleasant scent. Two scentless formsùæSweet and YellowÆ and æOdorless MixedÆùare available. ~~Will perform well in poor soil with good moisture. Cut spent blooms to promote reflowering. Buy in pots or grow easily from seed. Few disease problems. The idea that plants kill or repel some insects has been disproved.
Happy in moist swamps and marshes, they bloom in yellow, white or pink in April, then die to the ground in summer. The heart-shaped leaves have toothed margins. Leaves and flowers can cause inflammation and irritation.
Gardeners and florists love StockÆs sweet clove-scented flowers. Short spikes of single or double flowers in white, pink, red, purple and bicolours bloom above hairy, greenish-grey foliage. More fragrant at night, so plant beneath windows, along walkways and patios or in containers. Excellent as a cut flower. ~~Grows and flowers best in cool spring weather and early autumn. In mild winter areas, set plants out in autumn for winter bloom. Will often seed themselves.
This is a group of hardy plants which flower in the spring or summer and which are found wild in moist and boggy soils throughout North America, Europe, and temperate Asia. Several species are popular ornamentals, especially planted next to water; they have plumes of tiny flowers held above fern-like leaves; these plants go dormant in the winter;
These large, slow-growing palms have erect trunks topped with an umbrella of arching, feather-shaped, coarse, leathery leaves. Trunks become patterned with the bases of old leaf stalks. Clusters of summer flowers are followed by sometimes edible fruits among green or grey-green leaves. Like plenty of moisture, but tolerate some drought once established.
Delightfully easy to grow, Mint varieties are used to flavour everything from toothpaste to jelly to liquor. Plants range from low ground covers which scent the air when walked on to 60cm flowering spikes. ~~Drought-tolerant, they grow nearly anywhere, and spread rampantly by tough underground stems. Invasive, so grow in pots to contain spreading. Keep flowers cut. All Mints enjoy moist conditions and partial shade. Buy in containers or divide old plants.
Subtlety is FoamflowerÆs middle name. Perfect for woodland gardens or other shady places, these mostly North American natives provide tidy evergreen foliage and spiky sprays of tiny white or pink flowers. The foliage of some varieties colours in autumn. Mix with Trilliums, ferns, Campanula and Bleeding Heart. ~~Easy-to-grow, but doesnÆt like soggy winter soil. Not all nurseries carry these, so call around. Spread by rhizomes or runners/stolons;
While they're related to pine trees, their horizontal tiers of stiff branches and many small, pointed, flat or needlelike leaves give them a decidedly different look. Often grown in pots while young, the older evergreens grow to 21m tall and often lose their lowest branches with age. Beware of falling 10 to 15 lb. cones on mature trees! Plant them alone or use several as tall windbreaks where cones aren't a hazard to anyone underneath. Won't tolerate dry or waterlogged soils. Most like full sun. Water during growing season and during long, hot dry spells.
The one type grown, S. soleirolii, is common both in the indoor window garden and the warm-climate rock garden. These creeping plants have tiny, round, bright green leaves that form a dense mat. Use as a ground cover in shady areas away from foot traffic.~~Keep soil constantly moist. Prune or clip to desired size and shape.
Once planted by monks to deter evil spirits, these are now grown for their large, hairy leaves and tall, elegant flower stalks which bloom with bright yellow flowers. Individual flowers on these perennials and biennials also come in orange, red and purple. They are small, but bloom in a long succession. Excellent for informal flower borders and naturalizing in sunny, well drained dry locations. Use dried stems and seed pods in arrangements. Flowers also used in herbal cold remedies. WonÆt tolerate cold, wet soil. ~~Start by seed, root cuttings or offshoots. Cut back spent flower stalk to encourage side branches, which bloom later in summer.
Small spikes of tiny, fragrant flowers make Grape Hyacinth a delight for the eye and nose. Perfect for a childÆs garden, its flowers look and even smell a little like bunches of grapes. As a ground cover, use along walks, and edges of flower borders or let grow wild in woodland and rock gardens. Excellent combined with tulips and daffodils. Also good in containers indoors or out. ~~Plant in autumn. If left undisturbed, long-lived bulbs multiply rapidly to form large clusters of plants that live through snow. Lift and divide after flowering or when grass-like foliage dies down in late summer.
Valued for their attractive finely textured foliage. Often used in hedging. Small flowers with abundant stamens. Heat loving. All withstand sea breezes. Tolerate a wide range of soils.
Their bright-coloured flowers have been a symbol of spring since ancient times. Easy-to-grow, versatile and rewarding, Daffodils are hardy in cold and heat, and their bulbs multiply in the ground every year. And more good news: gophers donÆt like them! Superb as cut flowers. Plant them under shrubs and trees, near water, and in beddings, borders, woodland and rock gardens and containers. You can force bulbs to bloom in winter by starting them indoors. ~~The many species and hybrids offer a wide range of flower types including the large Trumpets, frilly Doubles, miniatures, pink- and multiple-flowering and Jonquil hybrids. Expand your blooming season by planting early-, mid- and late-blooming varieties. ~~Plant in autumn so plants can face the spring sun. Good drainage is essential. After bloom, remove foliage only when mature and yellowed to ensure next yearÆs flowers.
The saying ôBe nasty to Nasturtiumsö reflects the type of neglectful care these fast-growing, versatile plants thrive on. While they like moist soil, don't fertilize or water frequently or you'll have more leaves than blooms. Perennials, mostly grown as annuals, their fragrant, spicy, edible blossoms and young leaves are a gourmet treat in salads. They also make excellent cut flowers. ~~Double- and single-flowering varieties of both climbing vines and bushy plants attract helpful insects and hummingbirds. Dwarf types grow to 30cm tall and are good for fast colour in edging or trailing from baskets or containers. Climbing vines reach 1.8m to 3m. Trail over fences, trellises or rocks. Bloom in many colours, including white, golden-yellow, orange, scarlet, deep red and salmon. Self-sows.~~Sow seed, in mixed or separate colours, outdoors in sandy soil when all danger of frost is past. Also start by cuttings and division. Watch for aphids.
Large clusters of white or violet flowers bloom on these evergreens, which are stemless or can reach the size of small trees. Some flowers are fragrant when open at night. Clusters of pointed, sword-shaped leaves can be dangerous near walks or patios unless sharp tips are clipped. Drought-tolerant, but they're fire retardant. Young plants can be grown indoors. Remove faded flower stalks and dead leaves.
For jewel-like edging, border, rock garden, hanging basket or containers plants, their clusters of cup-like blooms fit the bill. These rapid-growing 30 to 60cm tall plants are excellent cut flowers. Long-flowering, the 18mm wide flowers bloom in white, bronze, crimson, yellow, pink, lavender-blue and bicolours. A dwarf type is also available. This South African annual likes cool, dry summers, and does best in cool coastal or mountain areas, where summer nights drop below 65║F.~~Start from seed 4 to 6 weeks before last spring frost. In frost-free areas, sow seeds in autumn for winter and spring flowering. Pinch to encourage bushy growth.
Perfect for hot and humid climates, these poisonous long-bloomers are beautiful in leaf and flower. The often sweetly-scented annuals and perennials have clusters of star-shaped flowers in red, white, green and pink. The flowers grow above large, light green, oval leaves covered with sticky hairs in summer and early autumn. Many modern annual varieties bloom during the day and have no scent. For the night garden, the flowers of the very fragrant Nicotiana alata æGrandiflora,Æ like some other varieties, open in the evening. These strictly ornamental plants are distant relatives of smoking tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum).~~Plant seeds or plants only after soil has warmed. Fertilize early and regularly. Some types seed themselves. All parts are poisonous if eaten.
Mounding or mat-like, Cupflowers can be grown in most areasùas annuals in zones 3 to 6 and as perennials in zones 7 to 10. Good edging, container and front-of-the-border plants, their delicate bell-like purple or white flowers are long-blooming. ~~Shear back after flowering to remove seed heads or allow them to ripen and harvest the seed. Sold in cell packs in spring.
Commonly called Ninebark, this shrub's bark peels to reveal several layers, which provides winter interest. Clusters of tiny white flowers appear in late spring. Use as background in large plantings or as filler in borders.~~Prune mature plants by cutting older shoots to ground level after flowering.
Wide-spreading, large-trunked Oaks are known for their long life, strength and majestic beauty. They have many forms, but are mostly deciduous trees and some shrubs. Some like wet soil; others prefer dry. All have deeply cut leaves and acorns. The foliage on some types turns red, orange and yellow in autumn; on others it turns only brown. The evergreens have hollylike leaves. Use as shade or street trees. Prone to caterpillars, oak root fungus and wilt. Never plant an Oak where another Oak died from disease. Prune to speed growth. For greater height, pinch tips of small branches, and leave as much foliage as possible.
A slightly larger and coarser version of a clumping blue Fescue Grass, these striking grasses require full sun and good drainage. Good in rock gardens. ~~Start by seed or division. Remove old foliage by running your fingers through its airy clumps of foliage and gently pulling the old leaves out. Insects rarely attack grasses.
These bunch-forming grasses were brought from Europe and escaped to naturalize throughout North America. Commonly called Oat Grass, its flat, green-and-white leaf blades and flowers are seen in borders or clumps. Grown as a meadow grass in the northern and eastern US, it's very invasive, so plant varietal forms. The onion-like bulbs that form at the base of stems root readily.
This includes mostlly shrubby cacti from the andes with cylindric stems; dense spine areas often have long, white hairs; they have round to ovoid, hollow, fleshy fruit ; these perennial cacti are grown for their flowers and dry, splitting seed pods; they are frost tender and hould be kept above 50 degrees Fahrenheight or else the stems produce orange spots;
Popular, but poisonous, pollution-, salt- and drought-tolerant Oleanders are used as hedges, windbreaks and freeway plants in desert and hot inland areas. Evergreen and deer-resistant, they need little care and grow rapidly. These 3m x 3m shrubs have narrow, leathery leaves that are usually dark green, but one type has gold markings. Some have fragrant blossoms, and single- and double-flowering types, as well as dwarf shrubs are available. Also grown in containers. All parts of plants are poisonous to humans and animals, including smoke if burned and water cut flowers are in. Even contact with leaves can irritate skin.~~Start by cuttings, which root in a glass of water, or buy plants in containers. Remove growing tips to promote branching. Prune after flowering to shape. Cut old growth close to the ground. Watch for yellow oleander aphids, mealy bugs and scale.
As with its relation the Gladiolus, AcidantheraÆs spikes of fragrant, creamy white flowers make excellent cut flowers. Individual, 5cm to 7.5cm wide blossoms are star-shaped with deep chocolate brown or crimson-purple centres. Plants have sword-shaped leaves. ~~Dig up and store dormant corms. In spring, plant 4 to 15cm deep in masses for naturalizing in warm climates or in containers.
Valued for centuries for their medicinal and culinary purposes, some Oreganos or Marjorams are now used decoratively in rock gardens. Leaves are used dried and fresh in a variety of cuisines, so no herb garden would be complete without them. Relatives of Mint, the clusters of leaves and small flowers of purple, pink or white offer a strong, herbal scent. Compare the culinary types by rubbing the leaves and noting their aromas. This gives you some idea of how they taste. ~~Easily-grown, most are drought-tolerant and thrive in all soils. Some types are short-lived. Sold in containers throughout the growing season.
Coral-red, pealike fruits brighten these elegant, spineless palms that are Southern California favourites. The stiff, feather-shaped leaves in their spreading crowns grow up to 3m long. The flower clusters hang even longer. Scars of fallen fronds ring the stout trunks. Water during growing season.
These expensive fan palms have several reed- or bamboolike trunks, from which sprout deep green palmate fronds. Often used as pot or tub plants, Lady Palms are grown as clumps in lawns or as hedges in southern California and southern Florida. Their yellowish flowers are followed by small berrylike fruits.~~Water regularly during growing season, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce water at other times. Remove yellow or faded leaves. Wipe off dusty leaves or wash with water.
Seen frequently in Florida and sub-tropical gardens, the Indians used some of the 40 different species to make soap and food. These tropical natives are low palm- or fern-like plants with short or underground trunks and crowns of evergreen leaves. Scaly cones are tucked under branches. Females have larger, thicker cones. Also grown as a houseplant and for Japanese bonsai.
These slow-growing erect fan palms have dark, shiny leaves if watered regularly. For container plants, water moderately, less in winter. While hardy to below freezing temperatures, they will enter a rest period if temperature goes below 55░ F for a few days.
Considered the most valuable of fruiting trees in the world, the single species of Coconut Palm provides food for the people of many tropical countries. It can begin producing crops of nuts at the age of five. The crooked or leaning trunk makes it easy to climb. However, since the nuts can autumn from the tops of the trees, keep it away from patios and walkways. The male flowers are fragrant, and the female flowers are larger.
These rapid-growing tropical palms are grown frequently in Florida, California and the Gulf states. They reach 9m to 24m tall, and their rounded crowns are topped by fan-shaped leaves. Clusters of tiny, creamy white flowers hang below the fronds in late spring, and black berrylike fruits appear in winter. Usually too tall for the small garden, so plant them along avenues or borders. When young, can be grown in pots. If potted, water freely in summer. Remove dead leaves.
This is a group of majestic, evergreen palms from the Caribbean region with solitary trunks that typically are straight and columnar, though some species have swollen trunks. Leaves are feather-like, with two rows of regularly-spaced leaflets (pinnae) opposite each other in one plane or clustered in several planes. They need full light or partial shade and prefer well-drained, but moisture-retentive soil. Useful as landscape and potted plants. Water well when growing and not as much at other times, especially when temperatures get low.
These especially hardy Asian-looking fan palms have a crown of lacy leaves. Most grow slowly. The tallest reaches 9m. The trunks are covered with a black fiber at least at the top. All produce flowers followed by fruit. Water regularly.
Their graceful, wiry flower stalks topped with brightly coloured, silky flowers brighten up even the coldest winter or spring day. Fragrant blooms on these easy-to-grow plants reach 5cm to 10cm wide. Planted as annuals in warm winter climates because they rarely last more than 3 years, Iceland Poppies are actually perennials. They bloom in summer the first year from seed sown in autumn or early spring. When grown as perennials, let soil dry out as they go dormant in late summer. Plants need excellent winter drainage. Excellent cut flowers if done before flowers open and ends of stems are seared with flame. ~~Easy from seed. Deadhead spent flowers to lengthen bloom. Easier to transplant when dormant than other types of poppies, still can be difficult to re-establish.
The only widely-grown perennial poppy, the Oriental PoppyÆs large, brightly coloured flowers are truly astounding. Thin, satiny petals form cup-shaped single or double flowers up to 15cm across. Gardeners in zones 2 through 7 are the lucky ones who can grow this tall beauty for use in borders and as cut flowers. In warmer climates, the flowers donÆt open properly. These poppies have a relatively short bloom period, so fill the gap they leave with BabyÆs Breath (Gypsophila) or other late-blooming, billowy perennials. Check out a new type called æMinicapÆ which has a much longer blooming season and better heat tolerance. ~~Sold in containers in autumn or spring, they breed by root cuttings. Grown from seed, plants have slightly different characteristics from their parents. To use as cut flowers, sear the cut ends with a flame, then place in water.
Water-loving, these tall, striking perennials grow best near pools or partly submerged in shallow water. In pots outdoors, keep soil moist. In containers indoors, grow in water 5cm to 15cm deep. Palm-like leaves atop bare stems are green to reddish-brown. Use in fresh or dried arrangements. Full sun or shade, but wonÆt tolerate frost.~~Start by division or seeds sown in spring or early autumn. Remove dead or broken stems and leaves.
Peanuts are fascinating novelty plants to grow. They're a commercial crop in the southeast US, prized for their nuts and oil. Flowers develop at stem of pealike plants. "Pegs" develop and lengthen, depositing developing Peanut pods into the soil at the plant's base. Best in areas with long hot summers. Prefer sandy soil that isn't acidic.~~In cold areas, start seed 4 weeks indoors before last frost. Elsewhere, plant unroasted seeds after last frost when ground has warmed. At the end of the season, when plants begin to yellow, loosen soil, and pull up plants to harvest. Hang in warm shady location for 2 to 3 weeks.
Deciduous and evergreen Pear trees look good year-round. Foliage on deciduous trees turns bright autumn colours. After their glossy green leaves drop, spring flowers bloom. Fruiting types produce Pears in autumn. Like the deciduous varieties, evergreen Pears offer a spectacular spring bloom. Use as shade or street trees. Grow small types in containers. They adapt to most soils, including clay. Pears are also tolerant of air pollution, drought and wind. ~~Prone to fireblight (especially evergreens), Pear psylla and scab. For optimum fruit crops, schedule regular fertilizing, pruning, dormant oil spraying and supplemental watering in arid climates. Prune in later winter or early spring to shape or to remove damaged or crowded branches.
Colourful Beard Tongues vary from small, rock garden-sized plants to tall, floppy, shrub-like plants. Tubular flowers of red, purple, pink, white, a rare yellow and the much-sought-after blue attract hummingbirds. The 250 species, most native to western North AmericaÆs deserts, mountains plains and forests, have been little-appreciated here. Some varieties are easy to find locally. Buy other, more unusual types at nurseries specializing in mountain and plains plants. ~~Care and growing needs differ, though all like full sun and fast drainage. Plants usually die after 3 to 4 years, and some species may die faster if grown in too-rich, well-watered soil. Many are easy from seed, while others are best bought in containers during your growing season.
One of the most-loved and spectacular flowers, the Herbaceous Peony is coveted by florists and gardeners alike. Up to 25cm wide, the often fragrant flowers bloom single (uncommon), semi-double or double, and range from pure white to deep red. Some smell like roses. Easy-to-grow, some 60cm to 1.2m clumps live decades, even a century. Plant roots 2.5 to 5cm deep in rich, fertile soil and theyÆll never need to be replaced. Use as large shrub borders.~~Less weather-tolerant than Tree Peonies, they need cold winters and full sun for bloom. Check specialty nurseries for warm climate varieties. Buy as bareroot divisions in autumn or container plants in spring.
Peppers come in a myriad of different shapes, sizes, colours and flavours. The sweet peppers, such as the Bell, are excellent for salads, hors dÆoeuvres, stuffing and stir-fry dishes. The kick of other peppers ranges from the mild, green Cayenne used in chili rellenos, to searing hot, like the red, fully matured Cayenne pod or the Tabasco type. Pimento types are found in the middle of olives and in cheeses.~~Plants need warm temperatures. In cool summer areas, plant against south- or west-facing walls and mulch with black plastic. Harvest sweet peppers, green when they stop enlarging, or leave them to mellow their flavour and ripen to red, yellow or orange. Harvest hot peppers when theyÆre yellow or red. Pick Jalape±os green. Pests and diseases seldom a problem.
These Australian evergreen trees like warm climates. They're covered in white blooms in summer. Train to espalier, trim to a large shrub or container plant, or use singly in lawns.~~Water container and outdoor plants moderately, less during winter months. Prune as needed.
A popular garnish, sprinkle fresh or dried Parsley on potatoes, in soups or use as a substitute for basil in pesto. Full foliage makes it attractive in herb, vegetable or flower gardens. A creative use for the curly type is as an edging in an annual bed. ~~Biennal, though grown as an annual. Best planted new every year. If allowed to bloom, second-year foliage isnÆt tasty. The flowers, however, attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies. Harmless green and yellow caterpillars, called parsleyworms, eat some leaves but turn into swallowtail butterflies. ~~Seeds are difficult to germinate, so use transplants. In areas with cloudy summers, grow parsley in full sun. In other areas, grow in partial shade.
Indispensable for instant masses of non-stop colour, Petunias come in many shapes, sizes and hues, good for any design theme. Flowers bloom in shades of red, pink, salmon, coral, blue, purple, white, cream and yellow, in one colour or bicoloured spotted, frosted, veined, splashed or striped. The single and double blooms have frilled or ruffled edges. Flowers have a stronger nighttime fragrance. There are two broad categories: Multifloras producing many small flowers (up to 5cm across) and Grandifloras with fewer, but larger flowers (up to 10cm across). F1 Hybrids of both types have excellent colour, uniformity and vigor. Use compact forms as edging and bedding. Trailing forms cascade down the edges of hanging baskets or containers. Good cut flowers.~~Tolerant of a wide range of soils and climates, but best in full sun. Single-flowered types withstand rain better than doubles. Pinch to encourage branching and flower production. Regular fertilization, deadheading and cutting back will also increase flowering. Perennial in warm winter areas, so plant for autumn and winter colour. ~~Mostly pest-free, watch for tobacco budworms. Can also be damaged by air pollution and fungal diseases due to excessive moisture and humidity. In humid climates, plant with good air circulation.
Delightful plants ranging from creeping, shade-lovers to tall, sun-loving, easy-to-cut, flower border mainstays. All have dense clusters of blooms. Deadhead and thin to discourage mildew. Almost all are American nativesùthe most well known is Tall Phlox (Phlox paniculata). Many others are gaining popularity as gardeners use more natives. ~~Available in containers. Check native plant catalogues for unusual varieties.
These evergreen or deciduous shrubs and small trees have bright reddish or bronzy young leaves which turn rich green. Clusters of white flowers often develop into ornamental red berries. These multi-branched and densely leafed plants are useful as informal hedges, backgrounds, screens and as a large point of interest. Can be trained as a tree or espalier plant. Attracts birds. Some types need little water once established. ~~Start by seed or cuttings. Prune to control growth. Watch for aphids and mildew.
Use classic, old-fashioned, cutting Pincushion Flowers in the back of flower borders, mass plantings or in wild gardens. Both annual and perennial types flower in colours ranging from white to yellow to purple and are easy to grow. ~~Annual pincushions are best started from seed in the autumn or spring. Transplant perennials from containers available throughout the growing season. Provide support for tall varieties, and prolong bloom by cutting flowers.
The many forms and types of pines can be found in northern temperate zones and on mountains in the tropics. Some grow rapidly, others slowly. Some have silvery foliage, others are dark green. They range from dwarfs to 30m trees. The size and form of their cones vary. All pines have long needle-like leaves grouped in clusters of two to five. They're fairly drought-tolerant, with a few exceptions. Extended drought or pollution can weaken pines, making them susceptible to pests and diseases.~~They grow well in full sun and poor, but well-drained soils. Shape tree in spring. Too much water produces yellow needles.
These delicate-looking evergreen shrubs are valued for their fragrant, fine-textured leaves and abundant flowers. Blooms winter through spring and sporadically throughout the year. Also called Diosma. Prefers full sun, though becomes taller in some shade. Requires fast-draining soil. Shear lightly after first bloom, and thin out old wood in mature plants.
A good cut flower, False Dragonhead blooms in late summer when other flowers don't. The buds on its branched spikes of flowers grow with geometrical precision on three sides of the stalk. The top of the stalk has tightly-closed buds, the lower buds slightly larger and the bottom ones fully open, funnel-shaped flowers. Use in moist borders and around ponds. If you twist the flowers on the stem, they stay in position, hence the second name, Obedience Plant.~~Thin frequently and prune spent flower stalks to encourage new ones. Sold in containers in the spring.
Their tasty, tangy, green or red stems are pretty enough for the vegetable or flower garden. Use stewed in pies, sauces, preserves and even in wine. Also excellent baked. Eat stalks only as leaves are poisonous. Hardy, they grow best where thereÆs 2 months of winter freezing and a long cool spring. In mild winter areas, use varieties that need less chilling.~~Sow seed in spring, or plant root divisions which produce quicker and more reliable crops. Harvest first few stems the 2nd year after planting. Wait until the 3rd or 4th years for full, 8- to 10-week harvest. Harvest stalks of 2.5cm or more diameter by gently twisting sideways near the base. Cut off flowering stalks to keep plants vigorous. Divide and replant when plants lose vigor and stalks become small.
Great for sun-drenched gardens, Moss Rose is a long-blooming, low-growing annual ground cover. Small red, pink, yellow, orange or white rose-shaped flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon, so they arenÆt good cut flowers. Some newer varieties stay open all day. Established plants are highly heat- and drought-tolerant. Will grow in any soil, but flowers best in poor soils. Excellent for edging, in rock gardens, containers and hanging baskets.~~Plants often reseed.
Intensely blue, phlox-shaped flowers bloom from mid-summer to late autumn, followed by colourful autumn foliage. Use in borders, or in sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. For a similar plant, see Plumbago. Start by cuttings or division.
Of the 60 to 70 known species, only Kniphofia uvaria is available in nurseries. Native to Africa, Poker Plants are grown for their unusual spire-like, bicolour flowers which change colour as they open from the bottom up. Easy-to-grow, the foliage is a dense, grassy clump. Seedlings, including those with dwarf habits, are available in various heights and colours. Put in informal plantings with other drought-tolerant perennials and shrubs.~~Poker plants are available in containers from spring on. Cold climate gardeners must mulch heavily, or lift and store the plants in a cool cellar for winter. Grows easily from seeds or divide for new plants.
Few flowers can match their intense, sweet fragrance. The white flower spikes bloom in late summer, when many others are past their prime. Excellent for flower borders, containers and as cut flowers. Plant where their fragrance can be best appreciated. Native to Mexico, theyÆre hardy in zones 9-11. ~~Plant after weather has fully warmed. In mild climates, after bulbs flower they split into small divisions and wonÆt bloom the next year, but will the second year. As bulbs multiply, youÆll get blooms year after year. In zone 5 and colder, start indoors 4 to 6 weeks early so plants have time to flower before frost. Water after leaves appear. Divide clumps every 4 years.
Summer-flowering, woddy based perennials and deciduous sub-shrubs; Frost hardy; need a sunny, sheltered location and deep, well-drained soil; difficult to establish; difficult to transplant, except root suckers; may spread rapidly;
A spectacular group of often short-lived poppies with large showy cup-shaped flowers of intense colours ranging from white to yellow to pink to red to blue and purple. All need cool moist soils and in warm summer climates are often very short lived.
Useful for ground covers and borders, this group of dwarf, hardy, long-blooming shrubs tolerate a variety of soils and seashore conditions such as wind and salt. Choose from several species, hybrids and cultivars with a wide range of flower colours. Potentilla perform best in full sun, but tolerate some shade. Plant taller types near each other for support. Provide good air circulation to prevent mildew, and watch for spider mites during dry seasons. Periodic pruning rejuvenates older specimens.
Perfect for shady, moist areas, perennial Primroses provide a rainbow of colour where many other flowers would sulk. Primrose societies have developed around these popular plants. With more than 600 species, flower shapes range from drumstick-like spikes to elegant, tiered clusters resembling candelabras. Keep them cool and moist, as along small streams and near ponds. Grow with Rhododendrons.~~Short-lived, but hardy, Primroses are available in spring in containers. Many types grow easily from fresh seed, but some are difficult to sow and to grow.
Rough and tough American natives, the many varieties of Evening Primrose are grown for their showy yellow-pink or white cup-shaped flowers. Their petals often have a satiny sheen or delicate shading which makes them irresistible. True to their name, some Evening Primrose flowers open only in the evening or on cloudy days. Varieties which open during the day are called SundropsùyouÆll see some referred to as Evening Primroses. Use in wild or meadow gardens and in the front of flower borders. ~~Given full sun, most require little care. Plants sold throughout the growing season, and seed is easy to germinate.
A long-time favourite, these miniature floral bouquets in a rainbow of colours are signs of spring. Excellent for bedding, edging and containers, theyÆre especially effective with spring blooming bulbs. Many long-blooming, large-flowered varieties are available which provide instant colour in late winter through spring. Most are short-lived perennials, replanted with summer-blooming annuals. Attract butterflies. Easy to grow in partial shade, and moist, humusy soil. Dislike winter dampness and summer heat.~~Start by seed or division. Watch for red spider mites.
Many of the vigorous, fast-growing, evergreen or deciduous shrubs in this group are practically synonymous with the word "hedge." All can be clipped, pruned and groomed into formal shapes or screens. Unclipped, they bloom in clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers, which attract bees. Birds like the blue or black berries that follow the flowers. All parts of the plant are poisonous to human beings, so keep small children away from them. Be sure of what you're buying, as many varieties look alike. L. ovalifolium (California Privet, called Common Privet in Great Britain), which tolerates some heat, and L. vulgare (Common Privet), which has lighter green leaves and tolerates dry soil, are often confused. Grow in almost any soil and in many climates, but most need lots of water. In the North, grow the cold-hardy L. amurense. In the South, plant the evergreen L. delavayanum. Most are pest- and disease-free.
Evergreen foliage, long bloom and ease of care make this useful for edging, rock gardens and the front of flower borders. P. vulgarisÆs first use through the centuries has been to stop bleeding and promote healing. The weedy type invades lawns and blooms by roadsides and in fields, but larger, hybrid types are easy to control. ~~Buy in containers or get divisions. Shear spent flowers to encourage bloom. Reseeds freely.
These fascinating flowers, once sacred to the early Celtic priests known as Druids, emerge from a nest of silky leaves. Flowers are followed by fuzzy seed heads which catch the light in the morning and evening. Of about 12 species, only P. vulgaris is commonly grown. Others are found at nurseries specializing in rock garden plants. ~~Need full sun in the North and partial shade in the South.
In cold climates, Striped SquillsÆ small bluish-white flowers poke out of the snow. Like its relative the True Squill (Scilla), it's excellent along pathways and in open woodlands, rock gardens and containers. Most effective when planted in drifts and left undisturbed to multiply and self-seed. ~~Best in cold winter climates. Keep relatively dry after plants go dormant in summer. Bulbs donÆt grow well indoors.
A sentimental favourite with its showy flowers in early spring, fruits of Flowering Quince are used in preserves and jellies. In late winter, bring cut stems in bud inside and theyÆll soon burst with vibrant flowers. Several cultivars range in colour from white to orange to pink to red. Prune deadwood to encourage new growth. Several varieties have thorns.
One of the longest-blooming perennials in mild climates, the elegant, trumpet-like flowers and medium-green, fuzzy foliage is easy to grow. Flowers vary from deep rose to pinkish-purple, with yellow throats spotted with purplish-red. Foliage forms clumps 30 to 60cm across. Spreads underground to form colonies. Use in perennial borders or woodland gardens. Grow in sun or shade. ~~To start, dig new plants from a colony, take cuttings or sow seed.
Genus of one species of evergreen shrubs, flowering from summer to autumn, grown principally for its foliage. Half hardy; Needs rich, moist, well-drained soil; water potted specimens freely, but less in winter; One may cut leggy stems to the ground in winter. Fuzz on new growth irritates if it gets in eyes or down neck. Propagate by seeds or suckers. This is the tree that supplies the well-known rice paper of the Orient; the rice paper is from the pith of the plant.
These small perennials are excellent for rock gardens and spilling over rocky walls. Also used as edging or in pattern planting. Their dense mats of evergreen leaves become completely covered by a mass of spring flowers. Small blooms are white or purple. All need well-drained, sandy or rocky soils.~~Easy-to-grow, start by cuttings, division and seed. Cut back after flowering to prevent splayed growth.
These bold-leafed perennials are choice plants for shady woodland gardens, flower borders and along ponds, streams or bogs. The large, umbrella-shaped leaves are deeply veined and divided into sections. Plants spread slowly to form sizable clumps. Small, fluffy white or pink flowers bloom on tall, branched stems. Best in partial shade, protected from strong winds. Tolerate full sun only where soil is constantly moist. Plant with other moisture- and shade-lovers such as Primulas, Rhododendren and Ferns. Start by seed or division of roots in spring.
These roses have bushy habits and low-maintenance requirements that make them well-suited for landscaping, for containers or flowering hedges. They mix well with other shrubs, perennials or ground covers. Many have long blooming periods. ~~Most are commonly available. Buy old or species types from specialty nurseries.
Bred to have perfect, exquisitely-formed buds and long cuttable stems, the base of the plants tend to be bare and have somewhat angular top growth. Because of their pruning and maintenance requirements, and for easy viewing, many gardeners grow them in formal ôrose beds.ö TheyÆre also grown in natural- or casual-style gardens. While leaving them accessible for pruning and care, mix them with other shrubs and perennials to hide their awkward shapes. Easy to find, nurseries, hardware stores and some grocery stores sell them in spring.
Large Crocus-like flowers bloom on this member of the Lily family in the autumn after the leaves have died down. Excellent for woodland and rock gardens, along pathways and in flower borders. All parts of the plant are poisonous.~~Buy and plant corms in late summer for autumn bloom.
Much-loved aromatic plants, the perennial and shrubby Sages are grown for their huge variety of flower colours and their long bloom. Colours include bright red, true blue, white, orange, purple, lavender and pink. The dried leaves of many types are used as cooking spices. Species come from many places in the world, so care needs vary widelyùsome prefer heat, sun and dry conditions, while others need shade and moist conditions. All benefit from shearing or deadheading. ~~Sold in containers throughout the growing season. Check specialty and mail order nurseries for a large selection of lesser-know varieties.
Annual salvias or sages are grown for their showy flower spikes, which provide a long season of colour from early summer through autumn. The popular Scarlet Sage from Brazil has vivid scarlet flowers which attract hummingbirds, but the blooms lose their colour after cutting. Varieties are also available with salmon, purple and white flowers. Mealy-Cup Sage, a Texas native, has airy blue or white flowers and silver foliage that reaches 90cm in height. Good in rock gardens. Plant any type in masses in bedding, edging and containers.~~Start from seed 8 to 10 weeks before last frost in full sun or light shade. Need light to germinate, so donÆt cover with soil. Avoid overwatering. Pinch seedlings or transplants at 15cm to 20cm tall to encourage branching.
These tall shrubs and ground covers have long-blooming flowers. The many hybrids and cultivars offer a wide range of flower colour and plant size. The warm-coloured blossoms and berries attract butterflies and birds. Need full sun and warmth for vigorous growth and flowering and occasional deep watering once established. In harsh winters, they lose their leaves. Use ground covers to control erosion or trail out of hanging baskets or containers.~~Prune to shape and to encourage new growth. In shade, watch for mildew.
Aromatic and easy-to-grow, three types of Savory are commonùannual Summer Savory, perennial Winter Savory and perennial Yerba Buena. Fresh and dried leaves are used in various cuisines. Summer and Winter Savory are called the Bean Herbs since their flavour complements beans. Use also for fish, eggs, meats and soups. Plant in herb gardens or containers. Not as flavourful as Summer Savory, Winter Savory flowers in white to lilac, which attracts bees. Trim and shape this low-spreader for knot gardens. The leaves of the creeping Yerba Buena are used in tea. ~~Sow seeds or buy plants in the herb sections of nurseries.
These members of the lily family are spring- or early summer-flowering perennials that grow from fleshy roots. Fruits are blue or black. Plant in a cool, shady situation and fertile, well-drained soil. Prone to sawfly caterpillars.
Highly diverse, drought-tolerant annuals and perennials, Stonecrops range from tiny, hardy, rock garden succulents to 60cm tall perennials. Smaller types are prized for their unusual foliage, and are grown where texture is needed or in pot and dish gardens. The larger types are shrub-like, and good in borders or containers, but watch out, because plants are easily crushed. Mostly evergreen and generally low-maintenance, varieties come from all over the world, so care needs vary widely. Prefer full sun in zones 4 to 6 and part shade in zones 7 to 10. ~~Sold in containers or cell packs in the spring.
Annuals, succulent and non-succulent perennials, evergreen shrubs, sub-shrubs and twining climbers; grown for their foliage and usually daisylike flowers; shrubs excellent for coastal gardens; most prefer full sun and well-drained soil
Colourful in all seasons, these deciduous shrubs and trees are especially conspicuous in early spring. Their plentiful white flowers bloom briefly before or with the unfolding of the leaves. Young leaves are covered with soft, woolly white hairs. Autumn colour is yellow, red or orange. The grey bark is streaked with reddish fissures. The types with edible red or purple fruits (which taste like blueberries) soon grow into a large patch, and attract birds. Commonly called Shadbush, Shadblow or Serviceberry (pronounced "Sarvisberry"). Tolerate a wide variety of soils. Start by seed or by suckers. Clear away fallen leaves and fruits to prevent blight.
Their bright, multi-coloured and spotted, Iris-like flowers bloom in rich warm tones. Use in sunny flower borders, rock gardens and containers. Branched, leafy lower stalks arise from sparse, sword-like leaves and produce many flowers. Although the flowers come in an array of orange, pink, red, yellow and white, they are short-lived.~~ In warm areas, best in partial afternoon shade. Start easily from seed or division. Plant corms after weather has warmed in well-drained soil. Water generously during the growing season, but allow soil to gradually go dry when plants go dormant in early autumn. In cold winter areas, dig up and store bulbs in autumn. In mild climates, leave bulbs in year round, and divide every few years. Protect corms from gophers. Watch for red spider mites.
The airy clusters that appear after flowering look like pink smoke and give this group of plants their name. A few weeks after blooming, they turn brown or grayish. This 3m to 3.6m tall shrub to small tree also has colourful autumn foliage. Unpruned, plants can reach 6m tall. Likes poor, rocky soil.~~Can be started by seed, but best from cuttings of plants known to produce many smoky clusters. Can also buy plants in spring. Female plants generally produce more ôsmoke.ö Prune in early spring.
Valuable for late summer and early autumn colour and cutting gardens, they like full sun and tolerate wet soil. Their disk-shaped flowers bloom in yellow, red-brown or red-purple. Use in the back of borders or as background in wild gardens.~~Pinch ends for bushier plants. Heavy flower production requires staking. Divide every 2 to 3 years to maintain vigorous plants.
Related to tomatoes and peppers, Eggplants need long hot summers to produce their glossy egg-shaped fruit. Essential in Moussaka, Ratatouille and Eggplant Parmesan, varieties produce purple, white, yellow and green fruits. They range from football-sized to walnut-sized, baby eggplants.~~Plant seedlings outside after nights stay above 55║ F and days reach 70║ F. In cool or short summer areas, use early maturing varieties such as æDuskyÆ and æEarly Bird.Æ Thin large eggplants to 1 fruit per branch. Cut fruit of most varieties off main stems when 1/3 to 2/3 full size and shiny. Dull fruits are overripe. Harvest often to ensure continued production. To avoid diseases such as verticillium, donÆt plant where tomatoes, potatoes or eggplants have grown for the past 2 to 3 years.
Digging for potatoes is like digging for gold. Above ground, potatoes grow as spreading vines, but underground they form large tubers which are actually roots. Potatoes come in a wide assortment of sizes and colours. Try varieties with purple, pink or yellow flesh. Some types mature quickly, others take a long time. In mild winter areas, theyÆre grown year round.~~Grow from pieces of seed potatoes. Buy only stock certified free from pests and diseases to avoid blights. To discourage rot, dry out pieces in a well-lighted and ventilated place 4 to 5 days. Dust with fungicide or dip pieces in a diluted bleach solution. Plant 4cm square blocks, each with 1 to 3 eyes, 10cm deep with eyes up in furrows in early spring. Fertilize lightly with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. As plants grow, pile up soil around base of stem to a height of 7.5cm to 10cm and 46cm wide. This protects these members of the Nightshade family from light, which will turn them green and poisonous. ~~Harvest young or ônewö potatoes at 7 or 8 weeks after planting or when flowers appear. In dry weather, carefully dig around plants to allow other potatoes to mature. Harvest large potatoes 2 to 3 weeks after above-ground plants die in autumn. Cure in the dark at 70║ F to heal bruises and ready tubers for long-term storage in a cool, dark place. Before eating, cut off poisonous green sections and sprouts.
Long-time garden favourites, SpeedwellsÆ elegant spiky flowers appear on small, creeping, rock garden or container plants, as well as medium and tall flower border and cutting garden candidates. Flowers mass in white, rose, pink, and pale or deep blue. Their attractive pointed leaves range from glossy to grey and fuzzy. ~~Low, mat-like varieties can tolerate less water than taller forms. They prefer full sun in cool climates and part shade in hot climates. Sold in containers in the spring.
Vigorous perennials grown for their white, pink or blue flowers, each Spiderwort stalk holds many buds which each open only for one day. Flowers bloom all summer. Used as a ground cover, but can be invasive. Good in pots or hanging containers.~~Shear untidiness to encourage more flowers. Plant in part sun in hot areas and give ample water. Also sold as Tradescantia virginiana, plants are available in spring in containers.
A versatile and nutritious vegetable, eaten raw and cooked, high in vitamins A and C, itÆs one of the most challenging to grow. Plants need cool moist weather or they will bolt, forming blossoms and seeds in high temperatures and increasing sun during spring. Use bolt-, mildew- and yellow fusarium-resistant varieties. ~~Plant seeds as early in spring as possible, 6 to 8 weeks before last frost date. Or plant, in late summer and autumn 1 to 1╜ months before first frost date. In mild winter areas, seeds can also be sown in winter. Soil should drain well, and have adequate water. Thin every other plant when leaves begin to crowd, and eat thinnings. Plants benefit from regular high-nitrogen fertilizer. ~~Harvest 4 to 6 weeks after seeds sown, when leaves are 15cm to 20cm long. In summer, try New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia expansa) or Malabar Spinach (Basella alba) which are warm-growing vegetables with spinach-like taste.
Tough and hardy, Spiraeas tolerate sun or light shade and many different soil types as long as drainage is good. A large genus of shrubs with showy white, pink or rosy-red flowers. Prune spring-blooming species during or just after flowering. Prune summer-flowering species from late winter into early spring. Deadhead old flowers to extend blooming.
Deciduous, summer-flowering shrubs grown for foliage and large panicles of white, small flowers; prefer sun and deep, fertile, moist soil; On mature plants, in winter prune out some old stems and prune back remaining shoots to buds; suckers;
Tall, stiff-needled, pyramidal trees, spruces grow in almost any soil. Use the larger types in park or landscape plantings. The slower-growing species are better in the garden. Planted close together, their dense foliage makes an excellent windbreak. Spruces lose their lower branches fairly early in life, and their crowns thin as they age. The pendent cones grow year-round. Easily transplanted.
One of the easiest vegetables to grow, Squash are rich in vitamin C and are delicious when steamed, stuffed, grilled, baked or stir-fried. These sun lovers can't survive frost, but do well in most other climates and soils. Varieties include Acorn, Butternut and Spaghetti Squash. ~~Grow on vines, but in small spaces or containers, plant bush or dwarf types. Where vines need 60 to 90cm of space, bush types need about 900 sq cm per plant. Vines can be trained on a trellis or over fences. Generally, 2 to 3 bushes or 4 to 6 vines produce enough for four people.~~Transplant 2 to 3 seedlings or sow seed in hills after soil has warmed in spring. Give plenty of water, especially plants in containers. Avoid overhead watering to discourage mildew or plant resistant varieties. Harvest in autumn when skins are hard and resist scratching by a thumbnail. From seed, ready for harvest in 85 to 100 days. Store with or without refrigeration.
One of the easiest vegetables to grow, Squash are rich in vitamin C and are delicious raw, steamed, stuffed, grilled, baked or stir-fried. These sun lovers canÆt survive frost, but do well in most other climates and soils. Varieties include Zucchini, Crookneck, Straightneck, Italian and scalloped white squash. ~~Grow on vines, but in small spaces or containers, plant bush or dwarf types. Where rambling vines need 60 to 90cm of space, bush types need about 900 sq cm per plant. Vines can be trained on a trellis or over fences. Take care how many plants you grow -- 2 to 3 bushes or 4 to 6 vines produce enough for a family of four and the neighbours.~~Transplant 2 to 3 seedlings or sow seed in hills or mounds after soil has warmed in spring. Give plenty of water, especially plants in containers. Avoid overhead watering to discourage mildew or plant resistant varieties. From seed, ready for harvest in 50 to 60 days. Harvest when fruit are immature and tender, about 7.5cm to 10cm long. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.
Mentioned in the Bible, these star-shaped white or cream flower clusters on tall, green, strap- or grass-like foliage are excellent for cutting. Use in borders, woodland and rock gardens or containers. Also grown as house plants. Best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Most bulbs are cold-hardy, but prefer warm temperatures. Water during growth and blooming season.
Deciduous, summer-flowering shrubs grown for their foliage, autumn colour, habit and winter shoots;Need sun or partial sun and fertile soil, not too dry; With established plants, cut out some older shoots after flowering.
These are distinctive trees and shrubs in every season. Their leaves become rich green in spring, and their camellia-like flowers bloom in summer. In autumn their leaves blaze with colour. Flaking brownish bark reveals lighter inner bark, so mottled trunks are a mix of orange, grey and reddish-brown. Plant these slow growers only on the West Coast, in the Southeast and in sheltered locations in the mid-Atlantic regions. Shade from hot afternoon sun. Prefer loamy acid soil. Transplant only when young. Mulch to keep soil moist. Use leaf mold or peat moss as soil amendments.
The large, long-blooming flowers of Stokes Aster can reach 10cm across. Despite short stems, they make excellent cut flowers. Colours include white, lavender, blue and a rare yellow. Use the rugged plants in the front of flower borders, cutting gardens or in containers. Its tidy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves are evergreen in warm winter areas. ~~Buy in containers in the spring.
Use these compact, mounding, evergreen shrubs in rock gardens or as front edging along borders. Originally from the cool limestone highlands of the Mediterranean and Asia Minor, they prefer a cold climate and won't tolerate heat and humidity, though one cultivar, Warley Rose, is more tolerant of high temperatures. They need a loose, well-drained, neutral-to-alkaline soil. Add lime to acid soil for better balance and a calcium boost. Lime also makes clay soil more crumbly, for better air circulation and drainage. Remove dead flowers to encourage blooming, and prune lightly to maintain shape. Spreads easily by self-seeding.
These broadleaf evergreen trees and shrubs grow only in warm or temperate regions. Excellent landscape trees or accent plants. Their clusters of white or pink flowers and round berries attract birds, but also create litter. Bark sheds, too. Likes sun and protection from wind. Grows best in dry, sandy and acid soil.
Growing in varieties from 90cm to 9m tall, Sumacs offer a show of brilliant autumn colour and bright red fruits. They thrive in roadside plantings, and grow in moist, well-drained soils and environments. Look best planted in masses. Deciduous types tolerate cold climates better than evergreens. Poison oak and ivy, which cause a skin rash if touched, are both in this group. Most Sumacs do not live long. Their weak wood is brittle and easily damaged by ice, wind and snow, which often leads to serious diseases.~~Buy plants bearing both male and female flowers to ensure fruiting. Cut back to prevent weather damage.
This perennial sunflower does best in its native West, especially in semi-arid regions where its drought-tolerance is an asset. Deep, woody roots are usually topped by a single rosette of foliage, or sometimes crowned by short branches, each ending in a rosette of foliage.~~Because of their deep roots, plants do not transplant well. Start from seed where plants will grow. Balsam Root is slow-growing and may not flower for several years.
This is not a true fern, but looks like one. These deciduous shrubs prefer peaty or dry sandy soil like that found their native eastern North America. Their narrow leaves are fragrant. Take a lot of abuse, though somewhat difficult to transplant. Often used to cover banks or for woodland and wild gardens. Male flowers grow in short, drooping, spike-shaped clusters, while females have a rounder head. Flowers are followed by clusters of small nuts.
The evergreen and deciduous shrubs in this group that are tropical are infrequently grown. The native I. virginica, an open arching shrub, is planted often in woodland and naturalized settings and near water. It produces graceful drooping clusters of flowers in late spring through early summer. Tolerates wet soil, yet highly drought tolerant.
No spice rack would be complete without culinary Thyme for use in meat, poultry and fish dishes. Use aromatic ornamental varieties as ground covers and in edging. Their blooms are not showy, but attract bees and butterflies. Plants withstand some neglect, but water in hottest parts of summer.~~Shear unattractive foliage and spent flowers. Culinary types are sold in the herb sections of nurseries. Ornamental types are available in cell packs or larger containers throughout the growing season.
Dazzling, colourfully marked, daisy-like flowers bloom on both clumping and trailing Gazanias. Peak bloom is late spring and early summer, but in mild climates they flower at various times year-round. On clumping types, 7.5 to 10cm wide, bicolour flowers rise from evergreen mounds. These close at night and on cloudy days. Use these as fire-retardant ground covers, as edging and in rock gardens. Trailing types are similar, but their long, spreading stems are good for hanging baskets or cascading over walls and banks. Both are heat-loving and easy to grow. Need well-drained soil, and, once established, only twice-a-month watering.~~Start seed indoors 4 to 6 weeks before last frost is due, or start from cuttings taken in summer. Divide every 3 to 4 years. In wet soils, watch for mold.
One type of these Asiatic natives, A. altissima, is widely grown. It grows quickly to 18m high in the worst conditions, tolerating city pollution, drought and most soils. It also resists insect problems. The chubby branches are covered in leaves made of 15 to 30 dark green leaflets that smell unpleasant when crushed. Blooms in large clusters of small yellow flowers. Plant female trees, since male flowers smell awful. Winged seeds self-sow readily, so remove unwanted starts and suckers. Prune in spring. Water during long dry spells.
Of these climbing sub-tropical vines only one is generally grown. They're are best in warm regions, but are so colourful they're worth growing even where they're only marginally hardy. They die down to the ground at 20░F, dying at 10░F. ~~Prune in late winter or early spring to control vigorous growth. Remove spent flowers.
This vigorous, fast-growing tropical vine is not low-maintenance, but responds to care with large, trumpet-like flowers. A native of mangrove swamps and lowland river banks, it's popular in subtropical gardens where it clambers over fences, pillars and pergolas. Named for F. Allamand, an 18th century Swiss doctor. A. schottii's prickly fruits are used in floral arrangements, A. cathartica is grown as a climber or small tree, and A. blanchetti has rose-purple flowers. ~~Flowers best in full sun and high heat and humidity, but needs shading from the strongest summer sun. Minimum temperatures of 55║ to 60║ F are ideal. It won't tolerate much frost, though mature plants can handle a few degrees. Move potted plants to a greenhouse in cold winters, but watch for whitefly and spider mites indoors. In early spring, cut back old stems and remove weak, straggling vines. Feed heavily during the growing season with a mix of leafmold, and well-rotted and screened manure. Add coarse sand to the soil to improve drainage. Tie the vines for support as they grow, and pinch off new stem tips for a bushy shape. Keep plants nearly dry during their dormant season, from late autumn until early spring. Start new plants in late spring to early summer from cuttings in pots of leafmold and coarse sand.
Not just a Dutch treat, Tulips are an essential part of a spring garden. Named because their overlapping petals look like a turban, they offer many flower colours, heights, bloom times and forms. Of the 15 different classes of Tulips, popular are the stately æDarwins,Æ the whimsical Lily-flowered, the multi-flowered æCottages,Æ the striped and streaked æRembrandts,Æ the feathery æParrotsÆ and the dwarf æGreigiiÆ varieties. There are early-, mid-, or late- blooming varieties, so careful planning provides weeks of bloom. Use modern hybrids in formal beds with Daffodils, Hyacinths, Sweet Allysum or Forget-Me-Nots. Species and dwarf-growing tulips are excellent for open woodland and rock gardens. All can be grown in containers. Some are grown indoors in winter. Excellent cut flowers.~~Most tulips do best in cold winter climates (zones 3-7). Treat as annuals in warmer areas. Plant in autumn. In warm winter areas, bulbs should be given a cold treatment at 40║F in a refrigerator for several weeks before planting. Gophers and mice eat these bulbs, so plant in 18mm mesh wire baskets. Watch for aphids!
These uncommon plants resemble small Dianthus with their little white or pink flowers and grassy foliage. Well-suited to the rock garden because of their tiny, tidy habit. There are annual and perennial types, but only one perennial species is common. ~~Also called Tunica, they reseed well. Buy in containers from garden centres or specialty nurseries.
Often grown in the light sandy soil of the southern Midwest and Western states, these low or trailing plants root quickly where they touch the soil. Their red, yellow or white flowers look similar to real Verbena and are fragrant only at night. Use them in borders or sunny wild gardens in mild climates. Good for erosion control.
These low, fast-growing plants have clusters of small fragrant flowers that make solid masses of colour in sunny places. Useful for edging, ground covers, rock gardens and containers. Flowers come in solid colours or with white centres. Use trailing varieties for hanging baskets. Drought-resistant, they like heat and sun. DonÆt like poorly drained soils or excess moisture. ~~May live through winter in mild climates, but replant in spring for best flowering. Mulch to keep roots cool or plants may stop flowering in extreme heat.
Evergreen or deciduous, these popular shrubs are prized as flowering, fruiting and foliage plants that adapt to various climates and conditions. Some plants have showy or fragrant flowers, others bloom in winter, or offer autumn colour. Ornamental berries come in shades of red, black and blue, and attract birds. Protect from direct sun where summers are long, hot and dry. Water regularly during growing/blooming season, less at other times. Mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Prune to keep plants in shape. Watch the evergreens for spider mites, scale, aphids and thrips.
Walnuts are best suited to large landscapes. Grow these tall, fast-growing trees for their fragrant foliage, elegant stance, and, in some instances, edible nuts. Among the 20 species are the European walnut (the most commonly grown commercial walnut), the Black walnut (an Eastern United States native that's extremely winter-hardy), or the English walnut. Don't grow other plants nearby because walnut roots produce growth inhibiting chemicals. Be aware that the English and California varieties of Black walnut attract aphids, which produce a messy honeydew mixture that dirties patios and cars. In arid summer regions, irrigate slowly and deeply. Prune in summer and autumn to shape, and to remove deadwood and suckers. Frost damages young plants.
These lushly flowering trees and multi-trunked large shrubs are known as wattles in Australia. Grown only in mild winter areas, they thrive in most soils and are drought-tolerant once established. Most have small, round, fluffy flowers grouped in clusters. Flowers bloom early in the year and attract birds. They grow quickly, and live only 20 to 30 years. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep rooting. Prune to thin and prevent wind damage. Remove bare branches at the trunk. Prone to the pest Acacia psyllid.
These twining or shrubby vines are graced with spikes of small pea-shaped flowers that bloom in winter or early spring. Grown outdoors in warm climates only. The slow-growing evergreens can be trained as screens on trellises, walls or fences, or used as ground covers. Drought-tolerant once established. Need partial shade in hot areas. Start with seeds or cuttings from young spring growth. Need support if grown as a climbing vine. Feed every two months. Prune to control size, and cut back tangled vines after bloom.
These graceful, elegant large shrubs or small trees from Asia and the U.S. They produce many clusters of small white flowers. Female plants have small purplish-black fruit if males are present.. Hardy in the Northwest with some protection from cold and wind. Prefer sun and moist sandy loan.
Easy-to-grow perennials and shrubs with light blue, star-shaped flowers clustered at the end of stalks. Plants have a white, milky sap. ~~Likes cool climates and moist soil. Start by seed or division in spring or autumn, or by cuttings.
Poets and songwriters have immortalized Weeping Willows for the mood created by their long hanging branches and light feathery leaves. The softwood branches of Willow shrubs can be bent into furniture or baskets. Collect their pussy willows and colourful twigs for dried flower arrangements. Also valued for their fast growth, Willows are planted on the banks of streams and rivers to prevent erosion or to shade other slow-growing trees. Their invasive roots compete with nearby plants for moisture and nutrients, so gardening underneath is difficult. Plant away from sewer lines and systems. Brittle, breakable limbs and continual leaf litter can also be a problem. They tolerate most soils, but need plenty of water. Prefer winter chill.~~Easily started from cuttings or seed. Stake and train young Weeping Willows so that they grow tall enough for you to walk under their canopies. Prune out dead or damaged branches in summer or autumn. Prone to many diseases and insects.
In March, masses of hanging tassels of sweet-smelling yellow flowers appear on bare branches. The Witch Hazel-like leaves change colour in autumn. These plants are slow-growing and their heights vary from 90cm to 3.9m. Prefer neutral or acid soils. Plant in a sheltered area in light shade to prevent frost damage to flowers. Remove dead branches after flowering. Water regularly during growing and blooming season, less at other times.
One of the milestones of spring is the sight of these old-fashioned favourite, climbing vines trailing over porches, arbors and among the branches of tall trees. Their masses of long, hanging clusters of fragrant flowers on vines up to 12m long are well-worth stopping for. Vigorous and long-lived, these woody plants are also trained up and over trellises, along walls or pruned into small, tree-like shapes. All parts of the plant are poisonous, including flowers and seeds. The most fragrant of the many types of Wisteria is W. floribunda, Japanese Wisteria. Start by seed and grafting from select plants. ~~Remove suckers that sprout from base of plants. ~~Ill-timed spring freezes can damage or destroy flower buds.
Trail these rapid-growing, vigorous vines up a tree or use them to cover a wall. Trained on an arbor or trellis, they're a dense, deciduous screen or shade vine. Their mildly fragrant flowers appear in midsummer. Several species also have edible fruits. Pair female and male plants to ensure pollination. Little trouble, as they're generally pest-free. Start from seeds or cuttings, and support young vines. Prune in late autumn or winter, as fruit grows on wood at least a year old. Prune also to shape and remove crossing or congested growth. Fertilize and water frequently during the growing season.
this genus includes 40 largely evergreen shrubs and small trees from the tropics with simple, leathery leaves; flowers are large, and may be clustered or solitary
Yews' dense medium-sized shrubs are commonly used in clipped hedges and topiary, There are other types. These slow-growing, long-lived plants range from 30cm dwarfs to 18m trees. Their broad, needle-like dark leaves stay green year-round. The foliage is poisonous, and the scarlet autumn fruit of female trees has poisonous seeds, so plant away from small children. Tolerate urban dust, air pollution and, once established, drought. Protect from winter sun and drying winds. Require moist well-drained soils. Won't tolerate strongly acid or alkaline soils. Prune to control size and shape. Mostly disease-free. Prone to black vine weevils.
Although it requires lots of space, water, good soil and fertilizer, this is one of the vegetables worth making room for. The many varieties include white, yellow, bicolours, sugar-enhanced, extra-early maturing and cool-growing. Recent hybrids called Super Sweet or Extra Sweet have up to double the sugar content of regular varieties and hold their sweetness longer. Prevent cross-pollination with other corn by isolating them 105m away, by varying species' maturity level or by wind direction. For a continuous supply, plant early-, mid- and late-maturing varieties. For something different, try ornamental Indian corn, miniature corn or popcorn varieties. ~~In spring, once soil has warmed and danger of frost is past, plant corn in blocks of at least 2 rows spaced 60 to 90cm apart. To ensure good pollination, choose a location that gets at least 8 hours of sun. Seed sown in cold, wet soil tends to rot. Best in rich soil, with regular applications of high-nitrogen fertilizer to plants 30cm tall and again at 76cm to 90cm. Keep evenly moist - donÆt let soil dry out. ~~Harvest when silks turn brown and ears are firm. Eat immediately for best flavour and sweetness.
These tropical natives are the source of medicinal and edible ginger. Small and reed-like, theyre grown for their rhizomes and aromatic leaves. They need warm temperatures and partial shade, so do well as bedding plants in the southern U.S. and parts of California. Need at least a 10-month growing season for optimum rhizome production. Rhizomes may rot in cold, wet soil.
Flowering in late summer when many other plants have peaked, Zinnias extend the blooming season. Popular for their easy culture and tremendous variety of flowers. Flower colours include bold and hot reds, oranges and yellows, as well as soft pastel shades of apricot, rose, cream, light yellow and lavender. Flowers are single or double, solid, bicoloured, streaked or spotted, and plants come in many shapes and sizes. Dwarf plants start at 15cm tall, while tall-growing varieties grow up to 90cm Use for bedding or mass plantings. Use dwarf varieties in edging and containers. The graceful Narrow-leaved Zinnia is useful for naturalizing in rock gardens, containers and hanging baskets.~~Seedlings resent root disturbance, so start in peat pots or sow directly only after ground has warmed. Avoid overhead watering to reduce mildew.
