Category Archives: Uncategorized
Staying active can be the greatest asset toward longevity
This weekend was Mother’s Day and normally I write some type of Mother’s Day column. It’s also gardening season and planting a garden can be a ritual that makes some people feel alive. I picked gardening this time. A few days … Continue reading
Aroma of lilacs
Every spring I look forward to my lilacs. I have a clump each of purple and white. Their bloom is short lived but is worth every breath. My apologies to gardenia, jasmine, magnolia, osmanthus and a few others, but lilac … Continue reading
Timing can be critical to pruning
This recent warm weather has enticed many to get outside and work on their yards. I’m all for that. In fact, now is a good time to prune many things. Some shrubs and trees probably could have been cut back … Continue reading
Proper post-bloom care keeps spring bulbs healthy for generations
My daffodil blooms have all but disappeared. This was a short season due to a warm stretch this March. I don’t have any tulips or hyacinths, but the ones I’ve seen around town are following the same path. Once these … Continue reading
Houseplants like the outdoors, but don’t rush it
Most of us look forward to a little more living space in summer. The houseplants go to the porch, patio or deck. Some folks don’t do that because of bad past experiences. The friendly patio becomes the patio of death. … Continue reading
Bonsai artists are patient, persistent and observant
I recently attended a bonsai presentation by Julian Adams, a renowned authority. Mr. Adams stressed that the art of bonsai is not without extensive thought. Every cut, every wire, every drop of fertilizer and every pot must have a reason … Continue reading
Winterberry Holly is a striking deciduous shrub
Too often people choose not to include shrubs that lose their leaves when landscaping their homes. They want their grounds to be green all year. I agree that landscaping should enhance property during all seasons, but there are some deciduous … Continue reading
It seems that frugality is not what it used to be
We all think we struggle to make ends meet and it’s harder all the time. Many complain about the economy and the price of everything. Still, I see big lines in front of eating establishments most of the time and … Continue reading
River birch is another deciduous species with winter appeal
Last week I profiled winterberry holly and its landscape design value. A few other shrubs have special appeal in winter, but river birch (Betula nigra) is a tree that also fits the bill. Its light papery bark develops a pleasing … Continue reading
Winter lawns in eastern North Carolina – Green or brown
Around here we have two options for lawns. What determines them is the amount of work entailed and when we have the most time for it. Different grass species have different growth requirements. Warm-season species like Bermudagrass, St. Augustine or … Continue reading
tedmanzer 