Garden Glow

Fenway Stroll

2012-01-05T22:57:00.000-05:00

After my very successful doctor appointments today, I took a stroll at the neighboring Fenway Park Victory Garden. There wasn't much to see since we're in winter, but it was nice to walk through under the sun in the crisp air. I took these photos.

There's beauty in history. I enjoy living in a city so rich with it...

Brown Thumbs, Begone!

2011-12-12T08:07:00.000-05:00

Is your home barren with no hint of green life? Afraid you already are or turning into a plant serial killer? Stop the insanity! With the Internet around (and me to guide you), there's no reason to boast how you always kill your plants. Just follow their care instructions, consistently meet their needs and you can help them thrive.

Here's a great list of 24 of the easiest plant varieties you can grow in your home. You'll have life and color back on the domestic front in no time.

When shopping, look for full, thick, bushy plants with strong growth habits. Avoid specimens with brown spots/patches, yellow leaves or any signs of pests. If you see new leaves forming, that's a good sign it is actively growing and healthy.

From my experience, Home Depot, Lowe's and farmer's markets have the best deals. Whole Foods sells pretty plants, but I dare not pay their slightly higher markups (sometimes, I've seen a few good sales there so it doesn't hurt to have a look-see).

Here's to a greener, plant-friendlier you! Have specific questions? Ask me!

Protecting Your Plants from Powdery Mildew

2011-11-23T20:14:00.001-05:00

Neighborly Garden Gifts

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-05:00

My first floor neighbor, Angela, knows how hard I've worked in the garden this season. She's a busy graduate student who also likes to make things grow. Imagine my surprise when I found a plastic bowl at the foot of the stairs filled with bulbs with the following note attached:

Jason,
These are tulip + daffodil bulbs. If you think you'd like to plant them please do. Grad school has robbed me of Fall planting pleasures.
—Angela

I followed up with a thank you card for her. I look forward to planting the bulbs this weekend. And here I thought I'd already concluded planting this season...

P. Allen Smith On Keeping Holiday Greenery Fresh

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Another Beautiful Creation

2011-11-01T23:03:00.001-04:00

Tonight, I made another terrarium (see photo). I have a tall cylindrical glass container with a lid I purchased from a TJ Maxx in Connecticut some months ago. Using plants and components I already have at home, I managed to put something nice together. The small plant cuttings used are Pothos, Syngonium, a long leafed variegated ivy and an Anthurium (I don't know it's flower color since it hasn't bloomed yet).

I'm taking it to work with me tomorrow; I do enjoy having terrariums on my desk.

Growing Indoor Bulbs

2011-11-01T22:43:00.001-04:00

Amaryllis 'Apple Blossom'

Yesterday, I bought Van Bourgondien Amaryllis 'Apple Blossom' and Paperwhites 'Ziva' growing kits from a local hardware store. The kit comes with a little pot, dehydrated soil (just adding two cups of warm water makes it expand) and one Amaryllis bulb; with the Paperwhites it's four bulbs. Only $5.99 for each kit. How could I say no? I may go back to get more.

Paperwhites in bloom

I potted the Amaryllis last night and the Paperwhites early this morning; they're in the living room and will sprout soon. The Paperwhites will be fragrant too!

In New York, I inherited an Amaryllis by default, but it wasn't in bloom and it hasn't bloomed in over the year since I've took over caring for it. It grew all spring and summer so after resting, perhaps I'll get blooms next year. Since I've never grown one, I don't know for sure if it is fragrant. But it matters not, the flowers are beauteous even without fragrance.

Here is more information on growing Amaryllis bulbs and Paperwhites.

Fall 2011 Perennial Collection Complete

2011-10-27T00:24:00.000-04:00

Hours were spent today weeding out regrowth from previously uprooted Japanese Knotweed (and planting more perennials). That knotweed is e-vil; some shoots resprouted from rootstock still in the ground; others were from unearthed root clumps in a pile that I hoped would dry out and die. Most of them did die, but this plant is TOUGH and has a potent will to survive and thrive; it's like a botanical cancer.

A generous gardener left these

Prior to weeding, I made an excursion to local hardware stores. At the first, I purchased orchid potting mix (for a future project), sphagnum peat moss, garden gypsum, perlite and a 40lb bag of organic humus and manure. In the second hardware store, I bought three terra cotta pots (for the orchids I'll repot later), and a 40lb bag of red cedar mulch.

On the way to the hardware stores, I passed a house on Green St. with a free Hosta sign (pictured here, below the hostas). How nice! What a pleasant and neighborly garden treat; there were lots of them. I took two home with me.

Thankfully, I had the day off work, because it allowed me to finish planting my entire fall 2011 perennial collection. The last of my peonies went into the ground. My three bare root hostas and 15 iris bulbs arrived today from Van Bourgondien and were promptly planted. It is fulfilling and a relief to know I don't have to do anymore digging or planting this season; it's getting colder outside and darker earlier as November approaches.

So, this spring, I'm expecting vibrant growth from fifteen peonies, fifteen irises, five hostas, an astilbe (small one found weeks ago in a different part of the garden) and bamboo (the piece I planted doesn't appear to have survived, but the roots may regrow sprouts).

Hosta

I put down newspaper with peat moss, red cedar mulch and the humus/manure mix on top. The newspaper will blanket the area and with the soil amendments above it, weeds won't have a chance to get established. As it breaks down, it will also improve soil quality. I'll have to go back for more bags of mulch, but I have plenty of newspaper to put under it.

After finishing, I watered the flowerbed well to hydrate the new plantings. With more rain on the way, I won't have to drag the hose out again until spring.

The Final Three

2011-10-23T23:59:00.002-04:00

The last of my peony series arrived this past Thursday. I haven't planted them yet, but will do this week. It is best to plant them immediately, but with my schedule and the shorter days, I'll most likely have to wait until I have a day off.

I ordered them from Van Bourgondien. The roots aren't bad, but I wish they were larger. Most peony nurseries send bare roots with at least "3-5 eyes", or buds (as in the example pictured here), which sprout into next springs growth. On the individually wrapped cultivars I received, through the plastic bagging I counted five buds on Bowl of Beauty, two on Shirley Temple and three on Karl Rosenfield. The labels with the names of each says "2-3 eyes." Glad that didn't apply to all three roots.

Bowl of Beauty is one I'm very excited about, so I'm pleased it has a good amount of eyes from the start. It's okay either way; it'll take all of them some time to get established in the garden as with all perennials.

After these are planted, that'll conclude my peony purchasing frenzy. I have other perennials I'll add in to the mix.

Return of the VFT & Co.!

2011-10-23T18:00:00.000-04:00

I bought a Venus Fly Trap yesterday at Whole Foods Market (in same packaging as the one shown here) for $8.99.

It's been a few years since I've had one. I plan to create another carnivorous plant terrarium to contain it along with Pitcher Plants and Sundew.

*This is GG's 100th post

Carnivorous Plants Devour Gardener Attention

2011-10-16T13:15:00.000-04:00

I've been into growing carnivorous plants long before it became popular. It is good to see they are gaining more attention, which leads to more people knowing how to provide proper care, instead of treating them as mere novelty items: The Lure of Carnivorous Plants - NYTimes.com

New Bamboo

2011-10-12T00:40:00.000-04:00

Black bamboo

I obtained a small clump of bamboo yesterday. The atrium at my office building had its current bamboo stock removed and replaced by new ones; they were looking quite busted. The large planters they grew in were waterlogged (poor drainage kills roots of any plant). Additionally, they were hit by spider mites; these are common plant parasites that thrive in dry conditions which weaken and can potentially destroy plants they infest. The bamboo pieces I received had some new growth that wasn't affected by the mites yet. Since my bamboo is outdoors, the mites will dissipate and the plant will grow and spread. I planted it last night and can't wait to see what it does. I think it's Black Bamboo.

Knotweed home invasion

Bamboo has been on my garden list for a long time. Now even more so: I plan to use it and continue waging war against the Japanese Knotweed. As it has no natural predators here, the Knotweed growth has been unchecked in the empty lot next to the house, until now. I've been digging up new shoots that pop up and grow fast. Getting the roots is key, but some are too difficult to extract by hand or with a shovel.

Once the bamboo takes hold, I'm hoping it can crowd out and compete with the Knotweed; depriving it of light and root space. I'd much rather have graceful bamboo growing than destructive Japanese Knotweed running amok!

Japanese Knotweed is the tougher plant, but I think the bamboo will win out with my support. I refuse to use any chemical herbicides. I'll dig up enough Knotweed to prevent it getting strong again, since fewer leaves means impaired photosynthesis. Eventually this will weaken the plant and make it easier to eliminate.

Japanese Knotweed breaking pavement

New Membership: American Peony Society

2011-10-08T19:00:00.001-04:00

People of all ages adore the magic of the peony

Since I love peonies so much, I finally made it official! I recently joined The American Peony Society. Friday, I received their 2011 Yearbook and three 2011 quarterly bulletins. So excited!

I enjoy reading about the prominent hybridizers, commercial growers and letters from other peony enthusiasts.

Great Idea: Garden Tool Caddy

2011-10-08T19:00:00.000-04:00

P. Allen Smith: "Just Add Ice" Orchids

2011-10-04T01:00:00.001-04:00

P. Allen Smith: 'Knock Out' and 'Drift' Roses

2011-10-04T01:00:00.000-04:00

Gardening With the Caldwells

2011-10-03T01:35:00.000-04:00

WOW! Thanks to the Caldwells for sharing their happy gardening moment with me!

Allison & David Caldwell planting my gift to them.

The flowers of the cultivar I sent them, 'Mrs. Edward Harding' will look something like this when the plant is well-established and in full bloom. I'm looking forward to seeing it!

Discovering Cricket Hill Garden

2011-10-03T01:30:00.000-04:00

I don't mean to go on and on about peonies (I do grow other things in my garden), but I am beyond myself; I can't get enough of them! More than any plant I've ever cultivated indoors our outside, I am completely enchanted. There is a magic, grace and inexplicable allure about the peony; anyone—gardener or not—can appreciate their undeniable beauty.

Herbaceous peony sprouting

Eventually, I knew my interest would expand beyond traditional herbaceous peonies (sometimes referred to as garden or bush peonies). These varieties possess foliage that dies back in the fall and new shoots sprout up each spring. My current garden has 12; the last three will arrive in the coming weeks, which will bring the total to 15, the most I've ever had. Now, I'm looking into tree peonies.

This new interest reached its peak yesterday, when I discovered the relatively new blog all about my favorite flowering plant. Cricket Hill Garden is fantastic and rich with advice and information about peonies and gardening in general. They also have a lovely web site offering tree and herbaceous peonies for sale.

Tree peonies have woody stems which do not die back into the ground each fall. The above ground stems bud and sprout growth again in the spring. As ancient perennial plants, they are laced with rich history, culture and are a true sight to behold! Look how long this tree peony has lived!

Budding tree peony

More of an investment of time and money, tree peonies are undoubtedly the next phase in my horticultural progression. I'm holding off on them for now. On average, tree peonies grow to be four or five feet in height and width. I could clear enough space for them, but I'll let the 15 herbaceous specimens settle in first.

Ideally, I'd like to have my own home before cultivating tree peonies (if I can wait that long). My herbaceous peonies are much easier to move and propagate. So, whenever I do change residences and have a permanent garden space, I can bring them with me and grow both peony types. Though not impossible to uproot and transplant, I prefer providing tree peonies a longer-lasting home.

However, my enthusiasm and impatience could easily overtake me, prompting a purchase of one (or more). But in the name of prudence I'll wait as long as I can. Depending on the cultivar, it may take a few growing seasons for a tree peony to mature enough to flower.

Tree peony blossoms

In time, I'll have a luxurious garden brimming with gorgeous peonies and all the other garden plants that delight my spirit and soothe my soul.

More Delightful New Arrivals

2011-10-02T02:00:00.000-04:00

'Kansas' peony

It's a mild October 1st. I went out this morning to plant the most recent arrival of bare-root peonies. They shipped during my brief visit to New York. From Springhill Nurseries, I received the cultivars 'Kansas', pictured here; 'Taki', a soft pink (I've not heard of this variety before) and 'La Tendresse' a bright white.

From the magnificent and prompt-delivering, Adelman Peony Gardens, I received the striking 'Buckeye Belle' and the charming, 'Coral 'n Gold'. Both cultivars will be among the most noticeable in my spring garden bed for sure.

As a very long-lived perennial, peonies take some time to establish themselves with their thick tuberous storage roots. Once they do, watch out, as they deliver sumptuously gorgeous blooms year after year, after year. Reports of old peonies discovered near abandoned houses, growing vigorously and blooming with no care at all are true. These legendary plants are splendid specimens bringing a special flair to any garden landscape. They generally grow to be about two-and-a-half to three feet high and equally as wide. Space them at least three to four feet a apart to prevent root competition and promote good air circulation.

Peony 'Buckeye Belle'

I also send peonies as gifts to those with gardens. As they are heavy feeders, peonies are not ideal as container plants. I can't have all the ones I want (because of space limitations) so why not share them?

From Adelman Peony Gardens I sent to Amanda & Steve, a 'Buckeye Bell' in honor of their newborn son, Grayson. They also live in Ohio, the 'Buckeye State', so it seemed appropriate.

To Carla, mother of my high school pal, David Caldwell, I sent the cultivar 'Belleville', also from Adelman Peony Gardens. David told me his mom likes peonies and her favorite color is purple. This will be a good fit for her garden.

'Bowl of Beauty' I sent to my friend Tom in Oregon. He's a farmer and knows how to work the land, so I've no doubt he'll find a great place to grow his. I ordered Tom's from Adelman Peony Gardens too.

From Canada's very professional and well-respected, La Pivoinerie D'Aoust, I sent the fragrant 'Mrs. Edward Harding' peony to Allison & David Caldwell. Lindsay D'Aoust says:

'Mrs. Edward Harding' peony

Yellow stamens clearly visible through densely packed centre petals. Good dark green foliage makes this peony particularly attractive even when not in bloom.

Mrs Edward Harding, the person, is no other than the great peony enthusiast Alice Harding. She was the author of two well known peony books ‘The Book of the Peony’ and ‘Peonies in the Little Garden’. Both of which are well worth seeking out today. She lived and gardened at Burnley Farm, Plainfield, NJ. Two other peonies were named in her honour, this time however in the name of Alice Harding (a tree peony and a herbaceous peony). There are also two French hybrid lilacs bearing her name. (Edward Harding, her husband was a lawyer in NY).

I sent 'Amalia Olson' and 'Kansas' to my very dear friends Eric & Tony Nicholson. These cultivars are also from the fields of La Pivoinerie D'Aoust.

Lindsay describes 'Amalia Olson': "Per the American Peony Society this peony was named for Mr. Olson’s mother. Mothers seem to have had quite a few lovely peonies named for them over the years! The flowers are beautiful in all respects but the fragrance is what puts it on my list of great peonies." Of 'Kansas' (which I now have myself from Springhill Nursuries), Lindsay says, "Often listed as red, but to my eye the flowers are deep pink. Mature plants can produce very large flowers. I would recommend this plant to just about anyone looking for a peony capable of putting on a great display every year. The colour is rich and the flowers are plentiful."

All my gift peonies have already been received and planted. I'm looking forward to photos from my friends' gardens next spring. Most peonies do not flower the first year, but depending on the size of the divisions sometimes you may get a couple of blooms.

Three more peony cultivars are expected here soon along with other perennials to complete my planting for autumn 2011.

Watch Out For This

2011-10-02T01:30:00.000-04:00

With more moisture and milder temperatures this autumn season, watch out for powdery mildew in your gardens. Good air circulation (don't crowd tall growing specimens) and full sun help prevent the onset of this common problem.

Also, be sure to eliminate debris, cuttings and plant parts that are dying back or falling off. They can harbor fungi and bacteria which may attack healthy parts of plants. Keep the garden tidy and these issues will not likely be a problem.

Adding In & Weeding Out

2011-10-02T01:00:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, September 20th, I spoke to an associate at a Starbucks near my office regarding their Grounds for Gardens program. As most serious gardeners already know, coffee grounds are great for amending and enriching the soil.

On Wednesday, the 21st of September, I contacted the owners of the neighborhood's Ula Cafe inquiring about collecting coffee grounds from them.

Also on the list of things I'd like to get, this compost bin. Not sure if I will yet, or where it will be located on the property, but it's in consideration. Coffee grounds are excellent for composting too. While researching, I found this informative blog post.

Earthworms also love coffee grounds. That is something I've noticed since I began gardening here, the earthworms are naturally plentiful. That's a good sign, and means the soil is not that bad, considering all the other crap in there.

While working the soil and weeding, Annie Lenox's (whom I've seen in person before) Walking On Broken Glass pops in my mind frequently with all the shards and broken pieces of glass I constantly find. The empty lot is packed full of weeds, trash, busted plastic bag remains, small bottles with questionable liquids still in them, more broken glass and other stuff too. The soil is also rocky, but that's not unusual for New England. Every time I'm out there, I dig up something I wish I didn't have to see.

When I initiated this endeavor, I expected to find some junk; it is an abandoned lot after all. The one thing I did NOT know about is Japanese Knotweed. I'd never seen it before, but noticed it covered almost all the empty lot next to the house. That stuff is awful. It has no natural predators here and is among the most invasive plants in the United States. Japanese Knotweed thrives in 39 of the 50 states. The UK spends and estimated £150 million a year to eradicate it; the plant is considered a controlled waste there. If left unchecked, it crowds out native plants and penetrates building structure floors and walls!!!

I knew nothing of this plant until a couple weeks ago and had no idea I was waging war for my gardening space. I wiped out a lot of it, but there's more to dig up and I know much more will sprout again in the spring. Constant vigilance to eliminate new growth and starve the root system is my only hope. I refuse to use any herbicides or harsh chemicals.

The battle continues...

6 Steps For a Perennial Garden

2011-09-11T14:12:00.000-04:00

William Moss demonstrates how to get started.

1. Choose a large open location, that will provide full sun, partial sun and full shade.
2. Sketch a plan for your garden.
3. Choose your plants that have varying heights to add excitement to your garden.
4. Dig the bed and amend the soil with a rich compost. Rake the soil out smoothly.
5. Place the plants, giving them plenty of space to grow. Plant them as deep as the pot, not any deeper.
6. Mulch your perennials, to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and unify the look of your garden.

Plan and Prepare Fall Gardens for Spring Growth

2011-09-11T14:02:00.000-04:00

Autumn Garden Treats

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

The fabulous Festiva Maxima

With my new home in Boston, I now have access to land again for gardening. Life is going so well, I wanted to gift myself a special gardening treat. I'm thrilled to share today I placed orders for peonies to ship here this fall!

Thanks to Spring Hill Nurseries, I'm set to receive three peony varieties: La Tendresse, Kansas and Taki. I couldn't stop myself, so I ordered two more specimens from the well-respected Adelman Peony Gardens; they're sending me Felix Supreme and Festiva Maxima.

In my old New York garden, I had a gorgeous Festiva Maxima peony; their fragrance is simply heavenly. I'm so happy to have another again very soon, in addition to new the varieties I've not had before!

I noticed a peony already in the garden here. Since I didn't see it in bloom this year, I don't know what variety it is yet (you can't tell just by the foliage alone). I plan to move it to a sunnier location near the plants I've ordered to arrive in a few weeks.

Boston Public Garden

2011-08-05T21:33:00.000-04:00

On the way to LUSH today, Britni and I walked through the Boston Public Garden. I always enjoy strolling through there. Gardens are special places.

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Powerful Peony Passion

2011-07-30T21:19:00.002-04:00

Peonies are my most favorite of all flowers. I love, cherish and adore them infinitely. I could never have enough, even if it were possible to have them all! (I know that's a bit excessive, but I want you to get close to understanding how much I utterly enjoy them!)

I admire their strong, robust growth habit, longevity, foliage and of course their lush and fragrant flowers in a variety of colors. Also known among gardeners as "The Queen of Flowers," the peony can easily outlive the person who plants it. In the right conditions and left undisturbed, it can thrive over 100 years! For places where they can grow (they generally perform better in areas having cold winters), no garden is complete without this potent perennial.

During my early years in NYC, I created a grand garden behind my home in the Bronx. I had a dozen peonies. Most of them were obtained via mail order from La Pivoinerie D'Aoust in Canada. I want to order from Lindsay D'Aoust again because she is so polite, helpful and extremely knowledgeable about her product. Though it has been years since I've ordered from her, now that I have access to a garden, I'd love to have peonies in my life again.

They also make great gifts! I've sent some to friends before, after I stopped having a garden. I've already compiled a list of those I want to gift peonies to this year.

The autumn months are the best times to plant them. Lindsay's short video explains how:

New Places=New Plants!

2011-07-30T20:44:00.002-04:00

Life in Boston has been great thus far. So, naturally it was only a matter of time before I started greening things up. I transported most of my major plants with me in the move, but I always make room for more.

I purchased two Phalaenopsis orchids for my desk on July 11, my first day at my new job. Today, at Whole Foods in Cambridge, I bought two small Rubber Trees (like the one pictured here) and a small English Ivy (all $2.49 each!!!).

I plan to take them to work on Monday. I'll have to repot them first; the Rubber Trees are especially root-bound.

Just like the new plants I got, I'm going to enjoy growing into my new world.

Peace Lily Power

2011-06-19T00:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I repotted a Peace Lily. As a former office plant, I inherited it and brought it home where it continues to thrive. In the past, it had been consistently difficult for me to get repeat blooms from these plants.

Now that this specific Peace Lily has taken on a more active blooming cycle, I can say that it is a happy houseplant. Currently in my my bathroom, with the extra humidity and light, it blooms more often than any other Peace Lily I've had before. With the fresh soil and new pot it lives in now, the plant will have room to spread its roots, continuing to bloom and grow.

ORCHIDS: My New Obsession

2011-05-10T13:26:00.000-04:00

Yup, I now officially have the orchid bug. I am completely smitten with them. Ever since I received one as a gift on April 25, I've been all a flutter over their exotic beauty and grace. I bought another one last Friday; gave one as a birthday gift to an old friend on Saturday; and was on the hunt for more over the recent weekend (didn't find any).

Admittedly, I was averse to them before because I thought they were fussy and difficult to care for; little did I know how many varieties require minimal care. I'm going to have a lot more to say and share as my orchid collection blooms!

Terrific Terrariums Today!

2011-04-15T18:57:00.000-04:00

I made five terrariums today! It was so much fun, exercising my creative horticultural powers. I used an old wine bottle, 2 large jugs and two ornamental glass containers. They'll grow nicely I'm sure.

I've already given two of them away as gifts. I'm looking forward to creating more!

Growing Amaryllis

2011-03-16T21:39:00.000-04:00

Last summer, I inherited some potted amaryllis bulbs from my former Brooklyn Heights roommate. Asked by his friend to care for them while she was away on a trip, he never returned them to her when she got back to town. Anyway, I've never cared for them before, but I've accepted the challenge as their new steward.

They sprouted weeks ago in anticipation of spring. Unfortunately, I cannot provide sufficient light for them at this time, so they're straining a bit. When it warms up, I'll have them on the back terrace where they were when I first saw them last summer.

I don't know what color the blooms will be (if they do manage to bloom), but I shall enjoy caring for them this year.

Terrarium Time!

2011-03-07T00:25:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, I went to Michaels, the cool craft store with my darling Emily. I bought two containers which I plan to use to make terrariums, which are so much fun to create and watch as the world inside grows.

With spring, my favorite season on its way, this is the perfect time to put on my gardening gloves and select plant specimens to use for another exciting project!

Autumnal Return Home

2010-09-24T11:46:00.000-04:00

Autumn is here. This is the time I start bringing in houseplants that summered outside. Today, I'll bring in the Croton and five Winter Jasmine plants from the roof of my building. The only issue will be where to put them!

Yesterday, I brought home my lacy-tree philodendron which I've kept in my office's conference room since last year.

The plant is somewhat large and naturally drew attention and smiles from other subway riders during my commute home. One attractive fellow even took pictures of me with it using his camera phone! I'm not sure if he knew I was aware he was photographing me (or if he was more interested in me, the plant, or both), but it was flattering nonetheless.

Anyway, it was time to bring the plant home. It fits well in my living room. I have a few other smaller office plants to bring back too.

Generally speaking, your houseplants may still remain outdoors for a few more weeks, but make sure to bring them inside once temperatures are consistently below 60 degrees.

Houseplant Q&A: My Recommendations

2010-07-30T13:10:00.002-04:00

Q: "I would love to know what houseplants are your favorite? I am finding out that I love to garden and being in suburban Utah I am starting to have a nice veg garden, but would like to expand my garden to the indoors more... I currently own two house plants: a jade and a rubber tree and I always get an Aloe Vera in the summer. Would love any recommendations. I'm thinking of a snake plant as my next addition. Do you have any blooming ones?"—Heidi N., Utah

A:Thanks for your inquiry, Heidi! Oh, I have so many favorites, but the ones that typically stand out when selecting plants for my home are plants with strong foliage. I like big leafy plants the most. Then I tend to go for ones with splashes of color on the leaves or vibrant flowers. However, it must be said that on average, flowering plants tend to require more light; they need energy to produce their blossoms.

You mentioned getting a Snake Plant; I support this. They are fun and very robust plants; they do not go down easily and withstand neglect! Another nickname for them is "Mother-In-Law's Tongue." I think one would be an excellent addition to your indoor garden.

Aloe Vera grows better outdoors during the summer, and will be fine in a sunny windowsill during the winter months. I have not had a Jade Plant in years, but you have me thinking about getting one.

I do, however, have a Rubber Tree in one of my rooms. I always enjoy growing them. They're so cute! These plants can grow to be very large with proper care. Be sure to re-pot them every 1-2 years depending on growth rate. You'll know when the soil looks old and roots are exiting the bottom of the flowerpot.

In no particular order, these houseplants are among my favorites.

I adore philodendrons. They're tough and sturdy plants with great foliage. My faves tend to be what is commonly referred to as the Lacy Tree Philodendron (pictured at left).

I have one that I bought from K-Mart shortly after getting my first New York apartment and I still have it almost 10 years later! It's been to the edge, but I brought it back from the brink of demise and it continues to thrive on my rooftop garden during the summer months.

The Heart Leaf Philodendron is also a good choice. I have one on the windowsill in my bathroom.

Another fave, which is closely related to the philodendron is commonly called a Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa is the scientific name; pictured at right.)

I have one of these in my living room. I've always loved these plants. Much like the Lacy Tree Philodendron, Swiss Cheese Plants can grow to be quite large if you provide adequate growing conditions. These plants both produce aerial roots as they get older. Supporting the roots encourages them to make bigger leaves.

You cannot go wrong with a Spider Plant; they're always a pleasure to grow because minimal effort is required. No collection is complete without one. They produce little flowers prior to developing plantlets, which make good gifts or an easy way to expand your own indoor garden.

Great in hanging baskets or on pedestals, Spider Plants brighten things up with their bright white and green leaves. There is also an all-green variety, but it is less commonly found.

Now, when you want lend a tropical touch of elegance and grace to a room, go for a palm. Nothing does it better. Why do you think hotels always have them in their lobbies? Mmmm hmmmm....

There are many types of palms, but one of the best (and most expensive) is the Kentia Palm (large specimen pictured at right); this variety is the one hotels use most. They are worthy investment pieces. I bought two medium sized ones (about 5 feet tall) last year for $75 each in New York City's Flower District. You may find them for less in your area.

Kentia palms are gorgeous and require minimal care. I've found they do better when I leave them alone to do their thing. In my new place here in Brooklyn Heights, they're in my bedroom. I water them infrequently; they don't mind drying out a bit between watering.

Other palm faves include the Lady Palm and Parlor Palm. Both are simple to grow.

A houseplant classic that I'm sure you've seen before is the Golden Pothos, also known as "Devil's Ivy."

Don't let the nickname fool you; this plant is a saint with its vines and bright leaf variegation. They're very common in homes all over the country. Typically grown in hanging baskets, they are also occasionally sold growing up bark poles as photographed here. As the other plants listed, Golden Pothos it is quite easy to grow, which certainly lends to its lasting popularity.

For blooms, the Anthurium comes to mind (pictured at right). These lovely tropical plants produce flowers in pink, red or white. There may be other colors, but those are the only I've seen before. I really like these and have three at the moment.

Though they're not doing as well as I'd like, I'm making efforts to enhance their growth. Anthuriums may be slightly challenging, but they're not too hard to care for.

Another very popular flowering plant is the Peace Lily. You've likely seen them many times before in shops and grocery stores.

They are simple to cultivate but do have some minor problems. Usually, people complain they cannot get them to flower again. The link above has information on that.

The main thing is to keep them moist but not soggy. When too dry, a Peace Lily gets droopy until their water balance is restored. Left dry too long (a couple of days), leaves will start to yellow and die. However, it will bounce back within 30 minutes of watering.

I could easily add more to this list of favorites, but it is a good start. I hope it helps. You're welcome to ask more questions. I love plants and if I can help you grow yours, it's more rewarding for me to grow mine because we're growing together!

Tips For Indoor Gardening

2010-05-31T18:23:00.000-04:00

Here are more useful Tips For Indoor Gardening from Tallahassee Home & Garden.

It's Never Too Early To Plan Your Vegetable Garden

2010-02-15T10:58:00.001-05:00

When it comes to gardening, indoors our out, one can never be too prepared. In fact, it is careful planning, knowledge of plant growth habits, seasonal climates and well thought out concepts that set the foundation for an enhanced horticultural experience!

Here are 5 tips for getting an early start on your veggie garden.

How healthy are your houseplants?

2010-01-11T13:28:00.003-05:00

Regular maintenance is what makes all the difference with plants, especially if they're growing in your home where you'll see them (hopefully) daily. Here are some things to look out for to keep them growing strong: Gardening 101: A guide to indoor garden symptoms and remedies.

Posted using ShareThis

Grow Fresh Air

2010-01-02T13:29:00.003-05:00

Useful information on how to improve your personal air quality. Great for your home and office. Plus, plants are pretty!

New Addition: Pothos Neon

2009-10-21T12:57:00.005-04:00

Last week at Home Depot, I purchased a lovely Pothos Neon plant for my friend, Emily. She already has one and now another to match!

This variety is harder to find than Golden Pothos and Marble Queen varieties, but it is worth the search. Its name comes from its leaves, which are a bright lime green. Its habits and growing conditions are the same as Golden and Marble Queen.

Heart Leaf Philodendron

2009-10-06T01:24:00.004-04:00

The Heart-Leaf Philodendron is a sweet and easy plant to grow indoors. It is fairly tolerant of most home conditions. It is also easy to propagate.

This specimen will get spindly and stringy over the years. Prune the tips to encourage bushy new growth. The cuttings you take can be used to start new plants or you can simply root them and put them back into the same pot as the original plant for a fuller look.

Robust and vigorous, Heart-Leaf Philodendrons can grow quickly. They work well in hanging baskets (don't forget to water them) or on shelves, bookcases and pedestals where the vines may drape gracefully.

Give medium to bright indirect light. They can tolerate direct sun for short periods but it is not recommended they stay in constant full sun.

Don't You Dare Say You Have a "Brown Thumb"

2009-09-13T14:21:00.004-04:00

Read here about five houseplants that are difficult to kill.

Plant lovers out there know this has to be among them: the Snake Plant.

Food & Funds

2009-09-04T21:02:00.003-04:00

I've never had a vegetable garden, but thought the following link was worth sharing. Is Gardening Worth It, Financially?
By Michael Tortorello

Reasons To Love Houseplants

2009-09-04T20:15:00.004-04:00

It is impossible for me to live anywhere without a plants. Since I don't have my own garden anymore, they're in my home, in my bedroom, at my office and on my desk!

Plants offer us great benefits with their ability to:

Create a relaxing environment
Add color and textural interest
Cleanse the air of impurities
Generate oxygen
Add humidity to room air during dry conditions
Effectively reduce noise

The Spider Plant: An Economical Classic

2009-06-20T20:34:00.006-04:00

Want a plant that's easy and fun to grow with the added benefit of producing more free plants for you? You want a Spider Plant. Indoors or outside during warm weather, in hanging baskets or sitting atop a pedestal, Spider Plants are a robust addition to almost any home.

For optimum growth, provide them with bright diffused light (some direct sun is OK) and allow to slightly dry between watering. When plants are mature and fill their pots, they produce trailing plantlets that eventually grow their own roots and can be separated from the parent plant.

What's more, while many of us are watching our spending habits in this tense economy, with a these plants you only have to buy one and you can have many more for years to come. They're also great for purifying the air and make great housewarming gifts!

Wandering Jew & Rabbit's Foot Fern

2009-06-19T13:23:00.006-04:00

A few weeks ago, I put two pieces of a Wandering Jew plant in my carnivorous plant terrarium. As an adaptable plant, they're thriving of course. Their color adds a flair the the landscape.

I also added a sprig of a Rabbit's Foot Fern too (see grown specimen below). Though it doesn't show any new growth yet, it appears stable with no sign of decline.

Carnivorous Plant Terrarium Thrives On My Desk

2009-06-19T13:04:00.005-04:00

I was concerned how my carnivorous plant terrarium would do on my desk in my office. In my former apartment, it was always in a sunny windowsill. I have a good light source designed to emit wavelengths similar to the sun inside the hood of the 10 gallon aquarium I transformed into a terrarium.

So far so good. The pitcher plants have begun an active growth cycle and seem quite pleased with their living situation. This August, marks my terrarium's third year.The Sundews have died and regrown in various places. They're not as hardy as the pitcher plants, but have certainly stabilized and are going strong again.

I'm often asked if I feed these plants; I do not. I leave the lid open occasionally so the terrarium may ventilate and insects sometimes find their way inside and it is a self-contained eco-system in there now. The plants are growing well and I don't question it; I just like the way they look and grow.

2nd Annual NYC Wildflower Week Is Here!

2009-05-02T17:25:00.003-04:00

See what's growing around you this week during NYC Wildflower Week!Fun fact:

New York has a higher percentage of open space than any major city in United States. About 25% or 53,000 acres is city, state and federal parkland—that’s more than Los Angeles, Chicago and Philadelphia combined.

Go, go Avocado!

2009-04-16T11:17:00.003-04:00

I just potted two more avocado seeds in my office. One in a plastic pot and the other in a ceramic pot. They're in a windowsill that receives afternoon sun.

This makes a total of four potted avocado plants. The other two are in one pot together. I have one more in water; I'm waiting for it to root more before I place it in potting soil.

I really enjoy planting avocado seeds. They're so easy to grow!

Mixed Herb Garden Kit

2009-04-15T18:25:00.002-04:00

Sur La Table has a cute lil' herb garden kit for $35. It's a neatly packed tin of herbs like basil, parsley and garlic chive seeds; able to grow indoors or out. Gloves, organic soil and rice hull drainage are included.

Plant Cultivation Tips

2009-04-15T17:49:00.004-04:00

Megan Matanzo, product design manager for Proflowers shares these tips for growing plants in an apartment, or on the balcony or patio:

Know your environment. Observe the humidity level and amount of sun your space receives during the day, to help select the best plants for specific areas of your apartment or patio.

Know yourself—not every plant will match your level of commitment. Low-maintenance options would be a succulent, whereas a more ambitious project would be a small vegetable garden.

Use your whole space. Suspend hanging ferns or orchids from ceiling or wall hooks; use trellises or window boxes on small balconies to utilize your vertical space and give a sense of privacy.

Be safe. Keep pets from eating plants. The ASPCA has a list of plants that are toxic to pets on their Web site. Opt for nontoxic formulas for pest controls.

10 Easy-to-grow indoor plants!

2008-12-01T13:22:00.006-05:00

1. Pothos (Epipremnum)
You can plant pothos and almost forget it. These lovely trailing plants with shiny heart-shaped leaves just grow and grow, all around a room if you don't stop them. They look lovely climbing a trellis, too. The variegated gold, white and green foliage of golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) adds light to dark areas.

2. Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plant's linear green or striped leaves cascade gracefully over containers, hanging baskets or walls. Plantlets form at the flowering nodes of the arching stems. A mature plant looks like a graceful flower fountain.

3. African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)
For sheer beauty and ease, you can't beat the African violet for a flowering houseplant. Its pretty purple, blue, pink or white flowers nestled among its furry leaves bring cheer to any room. Most African violets have dark green leaves, but variegated cultivars are also available. Water from the bottom to keep the foliage dry.

4. Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Mother-in-law's tongue, or snake plant, grows tall in low light with little water. Its deep green with light gray green horizontal striped leaves add stateliness to a corner or a planting. Choose a wide container for Sansevieria to stabilize the tall plant.

5. Aloe (Aloe vera)
You can plant Aloe vera and almost forget about it. When it's outside in the summer, water it regularly, but inside, water just a few times through the winter. Aloe's succulent lance-shaped light green leaves can grow as tall as 3 feet. Some people treat mild kitchen burns or sunburns with sap from an aloe leaf.

6. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
Kalanchoe is a succulent plant with dark green scalloped leaves and large flower clusters of red, pink, salmon or yellow that last almost all winter. Kalanchoe needs very little water and can grow to a foot tall and wide.

7. Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)
Christmas cactus has medium green arching stems that may not look like much most of the year. But the spectacular red, pink or white blooms around the holidays make up for the rest of the time. It is dazzling in a hanging basket and grows as large as its container.

8. Angel wing begonia (Begonia coccinea)
Our mothers and grandmothers enjoyed angel wing begonias. They are beautiful flowering houseplants with an eye-catching combination of green and silver variegated leaves and pink, red or orange flower clusters. They also grow quickly and propagate easily from cuttings.

9. Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia seguine)
Dieffenbachia features rich, dark, slightly shiny leaves usually green with splotches of cream or light green. One note of caution: The sap may irritate your skin.

10. Jade (Crassula ovata)
Jade is a succulent plant with thick, shiny, dark green leaves that usually grows 2 to 3 feet tall.

For more information, read the full story here.

Great Tip: Coffee Filters

2008-09-18T21:46:00.003-04:00

When potting plants or container garden containers, use coffee filters in the bottom of the flowerpot. When you add soil and plants, the filter will let water out but keep soil in, because over time the water flow causes some soil to seep out of the drainage holes. Using coffee filters helps keep it all together.

I heard that quick and simple tip on The Wendy Williams Experience. Wendy is full of useful information.

New Additions: Zee Zee Plant and Japonica

2008-09-12T00:14:00.002-04:00

Thursday, I bought two new plants for my home. A Zee Zee plant and a Japonica. They'll make great additions to my home garden!

Zee Zee

Japonica

Plant Q & A: Money Tree

2008-08-09T09:43:00.004-04:00

Q:"Hey how's it going? I thought you'd be the perfect go to person for this. I'd like a plant for my desk but it has to be able to survive in no natural light, I sit away from windows, and pretty hardy. Any ideas? Would a money tree work?"—Craig P., Washington D.C.

A: Yes. "Pachira aquatica," commonly known as a Money tree is indeed a hardy plant and reputed to promote prosperity. This is great for the workplace! Based on what you said, it should be able to thrive on your desk. They can tolerate a wide range of lighting situations. It is a tree, though, so more light equals more growth, but they do not require full sun. Even without natural light, your office light should suffice if bright enough. I have one at home; perhaps I'll get one for my desk too!

The most important thing is to not overwater this plant, it can become slightly dry between waterings, but does not have to be kept wet. Overwatering is the #1 killer of house and office plants. Give water until you see it flowing out of the bottom of the pot. Remove any excess after an hour or so.

Pay attention to how the plant adjusts to its new space. Over a few weeks as new growth appears, look to see if it is strong and compact. If the plant gets very leggy with spindly new growth, that means it is straining to get more light. If that happens, it should be moved to a brighter location.

If you encounter any problems or have other plant questions, don't hesitate to ask. Happy growing!

Natal Mahogany: New Addition For Home & Office

2008-08-01T14:23:00.004-04:00

I'm loving this plant so much right now! Natal Mahogany is among my new faves! This dark-leafed, strikingly bold upright specimen is a lovely addition to the home or office. A couple of months ago, I bought three for my home. Yesterday, I bought two more; one for my desk and the other as a gift to a coworker (he took his home).

These plants grow as large as you allow. If you take good care of them and provide room to grow, over time they can get like this:Native to Zimbabwe, this plant likes to be warm. If you live in sunny California or Florida, you could probably grow them outdoors all year round if the temperature is consistently warm, not dropping below 60 degrees for extended periods of time.

They're really easy to care for and grow at a strong pace. The only thing to be aware of is that they dry out quickly during growing season when it is warm and they need water to support new growth. From what I've read about these relatively new plants, they really like to be watered often and kept moist. Don't misunderstand: they do not require being soaked or constantly wet, but if you get one (or three like me) just monitor them until you see what watering frequency they like. You'll notice it gets droopy when thirsty.

Natal Mahogany is definite must have.

Sprouting Avocado Seeds

2008-07-29T00:28:00.003-04:00

Last week I put two avocado seeds in water. It's been awhile since I sprouted avocados. It's a fun summer project. Kids love growing them too!

New Plants At My Desk

2008-06-05T13:43:00.002-04:00

I bought some new plants for my desk today. I wanted to get something that would look nice, make me feel better and clean the air around me. I bought two spider plants and a syngonium, also known as Arrowhead Vine.

That Time Again

2008-04-05T12:39:00.002-04:00

Spring is also a great time to repot your houseplants.

Spring Growth

2008-04-05T12:24:00.003-04:00

Spring is still fresh upon us. You may notice new growth on your houseplants. Outside, of course you'll see things sprouting up in parks and gardens. This is a great time to get out and start a garden!

My indoor citrus tress show signs of new growth. It's about time to put them outside where they'll bask in the sun and grow strong again. A fall and winter season indoors has made them dry and lose leaves. They look pretty broke-down and busted, but they always recover.

Jasmine Lost

2007-12-02T11:31:00.000-05:00

Sadly, I suffered a plant casualty while I was away for a few weeks. Someone who shall remain nameless forgot I had a winter jasmine plant in the windowsill. It was obscured by a curtain so it didn't get water, so naturally it died. I'll get another one.

New Addition: Piggyback Plant

2007-10-29T23:26:00.001-04:00

Friday, my friend Marcia gave me a Piggyback Plant (aka Pickaback Plant, Youth on Age, Mother-of-thousands and Thousand Mothers).
I've never had one before. They're cute and can be grown indoors or out as a ground-covering perennial. What's interesting about them is how easily and quickly they propagate. Little plantlets sprout out of the top of mature leaves.

I took a few cuttings and enclosed them in mini-terrariums and one uncovered in a small pot.

New Addition: Fishtail Palm

2007-09-09T23:57:00.000-04:00

At IKEA today, I bought two Fishtail Palms. I've never had this plant before. They're quite cute. I like the uneven leaf texture along the frond edges (shown below).

Lost Fruit

2007-09-09T13:27:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, someone stole my little potted grapefruit tree off the front porch. I was very disappointed and hurt. Who steals plants? How ghetto is that? If they had hacked off a piece to propagate, I wouldn't have been bothered much. But no, this person took the entire plant.

The tree wasn't old enough to bear fruit yet and it was overdue for repotting. I hope whomever has it knows how to care for it.

How To Water Your Plants The Right Way

2007-07-17T10:33:00.001-04:00

1. Watch the water temp: Too hot or too cold water can "shock" indoor plants and cause drooping—so use room-temperature water. [Garden note from me: If you know it's going to rain, put your watering can outside to catch it and use on your plants.]

2. Wait till soil is dry: In hot climates, water at dusk. In cooler ones, do it in the morning (fungus can grow if leaves are wet all night).

3. Don't drown 'em: Fill pot until water seeps into dish underneath. Spill out excess. Heavy plant? Soak up with a paper towel.

From the August 2007 issue of Glamour

Growing Strong

2007-07-08T14:56:00.000-04:00

My plants are holding up. They're enjoying the summer sun and humidity outside on the porch. My home grown citrus trees are rapidly growing. The Spider Plant (pictured), Ferns and Philodendron are also growing well.

A porch is nice and houseplants are always welcome, but I sure do miss my garden...

Have You Repotted Yet?

2007-06-04T23:51:00.000-04:00

If your plant has stunted growth, crusty surface soil and especially roots coming out of the drainage holes, it is time to repot. Now that the growing season is upon us, re-pot your houseplants that have outgrown their current pots. Click here to find out how to make sure your plant has an easy transition to its new little home.

I repotted a new palm today.

April Chill & My Potted Citrus

2007-04-06T12:25:00.000-04:00

I put my citrus trees outside yesterday, but it was far too cold and windy for them to stay there. Last night, temperatures reached the low 30s and though citrus can withstand that for a time, I don't want to shock them after having been indoors for so long.

Spring is in full swing! I was expecting temperatures in the 40s and 50s. I'm concerned about this chilly April weather.

Here's some information on growing citrus trees as potted plants.

Venus Flytraps Back In Terrarium

2007-03-06T23:16:00.000-05:00

In regard to the calendar, spring is only two weeks away. If you step outside right now, it doesn't feel as if it is anywhere close to getting warm again.

Indoors, I recently reintroduced my Venus Flytraps to the terrarium after a dormancy period. Many don't know that these unique plants are native to North and South Carolina and not some tropical island. To simulate something similar to winter, I place mine in the refrigerator from October through March. Of course I checked them periodically to make sure the plants stayed moist and no mold grew on them.

I left them out on a table to get used to warmer temperatures and more light. After a day or two, I put them back inside the terrarium where it is much warmer and brighter. The plants will soon set new roots to support its developing growth.

Cymbidium

2007-01-31T01:05:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, I was showing a friend around Trader Joe's in Union Square. He'd never been inside before so I gave him a quick tour.

On the way out, I noticed an orchid just like the one I found a few weeks ago. That's when I discovered I adopted a Cymbidium. Now, I know what kind of orchid I have!

Tough Houseplants For Botanically Challenged

2007-01-19T12:01:00.000-05:00

If you're more organized and prioritize your time, houseplants that require regular care may be less of a challenge.

Always on the go? Forgetful? Then plants that are hardy and can withstand neglect will work better in your home. A prime example is the Snake Plant (shown at right), also known as Mother-In-Law's Tongue. The only thing that can really destroy it is over watering. That's the number one killer of houseplants.

The same applies for the suitably named Cast Iron Plant. This dark green, slow growing specimen may be grown indoors and can tolerate more neglect than most plants.

Philodendrons (an example below), are among my favorite plants and tend to be strong houseplants too and most aren't too fussy about lighting. This species also has a multitude of varieties with varying leaf shapes, sizes and variegation.

These are just a few suggestions for tough houseplants.

My Kitchen Garden

2007-01-19T11:45:00.000-05:00

The kitchen is the largest room in my home. It gets morning sun. Naturally, it makes an ideal place for my many houseplants. There are others in the house, but the kitchen has the densest concentration of them.

Plants are important and I feel that every home should have them. Yes, there are people that claim to have a "brown thumb" or always kill their plants. This does not have to be the case. It is simply a matter of choosing plants that suit your routine. To find that out only requires a little research.

Mild Pruning

2007-01-17T00:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I pruned the dead flowers and stems off my new little friend. So, far it seems to be holding up. For whatever reason, whomever had it just didn't know how or want to care for it anymore. I have yet to research the name and care instructions for this unusual plant.

When pruning, the general rule is to cut at an angle away from the leaf node. Avoid flat cuts as they tend to be less effective by crushing the stem and opening more possibilities for infection or parasite attack.

Plant Rescue

2007-01-13T00:25:00.000-05:00

I found this plant last night while walking down Park Avenue! I believe it's an orchid. It was next to a trash can with some minor debris cluttered on it. I saw this plant and my heart went out to it. I felt it was salvageable and needed a home. So, I took it in. Here's a photo of it in my kitchen.

It appears to be in decent shape. I rinsed it off in the shower and let the excess water drain away. It doesn't seem to have any insects or plant parasites. I don't think it was sitting outside on the corner very long.

I'll do some research to determine what type of plant it is and how to care for it.

Quick Note On Humidity

2007-01-08T15:46:00.000-05:00

With heating systems, indoor air is drier and you may need a humidifier, and not just for yourself. Your houseplants will certainly benefit from added moisture this time of year. Plant growth is slowed in winter, but hot dry air will make its living conditions unsuitable for general health and may promote plant pests.

Remember pest control. Red spider mites thrive in dry conditions and they almost always target ivies.

For pest control, I recommend using organic and natural methods first. Avoid any insecticides if possible, especially if you have pets or children that may come in contact with your plants.

Fall of the Fern

2007-01-02T02:00:00.000-05:00

Sadly, I lost a fern recently. It lasted a long time compared to others in the past, but I continually have difficulty with them indoors.

Balmy Outside

2007-01-02T01:58:00.000-05:00

I'm concerned with this unseasonably warm weather. It feels nothing like January.

Dying Ivy

2006-11-23T23:17:00.000-05:00

I don't have a good track record with ivy. Eventually, they seem to keep biting the dust. I threw one out a week or so ago, and now the other one is pretty much history.

Perhaps moving them to the bathroom was a mistake.

Sticky Situation

2006-11-03T13:34:00.000-05:00

The only downside to transplanting other plants in the terrarium yesterday is that my sundew plants, due to their sticky nature, now have peat moss and sphagnum moss stuck all over them. It's not pretty but the new leaves that grow in later will be more pristine.

Of all the plants in the terrarium, the sundews have really taken off and sprouted new growth through its roots. They're pretty plants.

Trapped By Venus

2006-11-03T13:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I transplanted my Venus Fly Traps. I moved them from the terrarium into small containers in the refrigerator.

Most people don't know they are native to North and South Carolina and are not tropical plants. They undergo a winter dormancy. If forced to grow all year they will gradually lose strength and die. So, I keep them in the fridge from October through March. I was late this year so they'll rest from November to March.

In spring they'll grow bigger with larger traps.

Houseplants Back Inside

2006-10-05T15:03:00.000-04:00

Yes it has been a while. I plan to post more often.

Living in Brooklyn is wonderful. I miss my garden in the Bronx, but I had to move on. Being closer to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is nice. I am hoping to find employment there, but the career opportunities aren't suitable for my skill set. I'll have to check back regularly.

As for my gardening, I had all my large plants outside on the porch for the summer. I brought my two large citrus tress inside. The weather is cooling, and although it is not too cold for them, I decided to bring them in so they may adjust to the light and temperature changes. I think they'll be all right. I have less space for them in my current home, but I made it work.

I also brought in my fern. It's near the front door on a pedestal. Ferns always look good on pedestals and they tend to be more sensitive and I expect some leaf loss as the days go by since it will get less light, but ferns generally like moderate light. My philodendron looks good in the kitchen now.

I recently bought a large Cataractarum Palm at IKEA for $9.99! Palms are among my most favorite of all plants. Many of them are easy to care for and require mild to moderate grooming and maintenance. Palms lend an air of elegance and tropical luxury to any room. They also act as excellent air filters. Believe it or not, plants clean the air better than any machine you can buy and they're better looking!

Missing My Garden

2006-06-18T00:11:00.000-04:00

I have not posted in such a long time! Living in Brooklyn is nice. The sad part is that I do not have access to a garden here. I have yet to visit my old garden. I missed the peony blossoms. For shame! I know I have to get up there and take photos of the lush splendor that is my garden.

My Favorite Season

2006-03-21T23:07:00.000-05:00

Spring begins today! I haven't set foot in my garden yet. I have some work to do out there before I move. Of course, the daffodils are out and about. I don't think much else is sprouting yet, but I know the plants are getting ready to grow.

Uprooting

2006-03-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

I'm horribly distraught over the thought of leaving my garden. I'm moving within the next few weeks, which means I'll miss a lot this season. I intend to visit and check up on things for a while. I may even take some things with me and make a container garden at my new space.

Season of All Things New

2006-03-13T18:18:00.000-05:00

Life is returning to the garden. New pictures coming soon.

Love Grows

2006-02-14T13:36:00.000-05:00

A gardener's heart is filled with boundless love. Happy Valentine's Day!

Waiting for Spring

2006-02-14T13:08:00.000-05:00

Spring is not too far away (even though the groundhog is said to have seen its shadow, which means six more weeks of winter). That means the daffodils will sprout in a few weeks! They're the first things to sprout in my garden. I'm looking forward to seeing them!

I browsed a few mail-order garden catalogs over the past few weeks, but I've decided I'm not purchasing any more plants. I'll propagate and move some plants around, perhaps, but there's no need to spend anymore money adding to an already full garden.

This coming season, I anticipate many beautiful photos from my lovely garden oasis.

That Tree

2006-02-14T11:17:00.000-05:00

Remember my rant last October about that tree falling on my garden? I thought someone cut it down, but as it turned out, the trunk just rotted and it fell over.

The fence was repaired at my neighbor's expense. There was some damage to the vines twined along the fence, but they'll grow back in spring because the root system remained intact.

Great for the Garden

2006-02-14T10:53:00.000-05:00

As shown here, snow is not a good thing for pedestrians on the streets of New York City, but it is great for the garden! Snow acts as a ground insulator by helping maintain consistent ground temperatures and moisture retention. Rapid temperature fluctuations that often occur during winter months can cause ground heaving which may uproot or disturb fall plantings not well established yet. Gardeners primarily prevent this by mulching, but snow, although temporary, is a kind of natural mulch.

If your garden is covered with snow, leave it there until it melts. It will be appreciated.

Mystery Tree Tramples Garden

2005-10-26T16:43:00.000-04:00

What is this? It is a dead tree and it fell onto my garden! This makes no sense. I noticed it last night, but I'm told it happened yesterday morning. I don't know how this happened because the yard next to mine had NO trees. They were all cut down a few years ago.

This is a mystery because it appears the tree was cut down. Notice there are no roots at the base of the tree? So, that means the tree didn't fall there. The fence seems to have taken the brunt of the fall. I haven't been to the garden yet, but there doesn't seem to be any serious damage to individual plants.

Plant Peonies Now

2005-10-04T15:05:00.000-04:00

Fall is the time to plant peonies. These glorious flowers will not disappoint! The blooms shown here are from my garden this past spring.

Potted live plants are available in spring and summer, but bare root specimens are more common and best planted from September through November.
Make sure you get good rootstock divisions that are firm and solid. Personally, I trust La Pivoinerie D'Aoust for my source of quality stock. Since I've run out of room in my own garden, I give her peonies as gifts!

Plenty of information on how and where to plant them is available online and in gardening books, but here's an overview.

Select a site that has good soil and drainage, away from bushes, trees or other plants with large root systems. Plant at least three feet apart from other peonies.

Make sure the area gets full sun daily. Full sun is five to six hours a day during spring and summer months.

Dig a hole about 18 inches both deep and wide.

Add organic materials such as compost, peat moss and well-rotted manure. (Some use bonemeal, but as an avid animal advocate, I refrain from using it.)

Mix the organic materials with the native area soil in the hole.

Place the peony root so that the "eyes" (little nubs that will develop into next year's sprouts) are NO MORE than two (2) inches below the soil surface.

If the eyes are too deep, the peony may not bloom.

If you live in a zone with mild winters, planting one (1) inch below the surface is ideal. Peonies generally need cold winters to flower. However, there are some reports of growing peonies in northern Florida. It depends on the species so do some research.

After planting, water in well. Be careful that the root does not sink deeper as the water settles the soil. Check, because you may have to raise it a bit.

Early September is ideal for planting, but you can plant peony roots anytime before the ground freezes. Fall planting allows the feeder roots to spread out and establish the plant for the following spring.

You may mulch if you like, but be sure to remove the mulch and replace it with fresh material in spring. This prevents any bacteria that may have overwintered from becoming a problem in warmer weather. Garden hygiene is important to peony health.

Plant roots in fall, sprouts appear in early spring and flowers bloom from late May to early June. The only downside to these plants is that their bloom cycle is so short (five to ten days.) That's why it is suggested to get varieties that bloom early, mid and late season, to increase the length of time you see the stunning, and in many cases fragrant, flowers.

So tough and hardy, established peonies need very little care. These plants are ancient and are known to live a century or more if provided with ideal conditions.

If you're buying a house and plan to stay there for the rest of your life; plant a peony. Don't worry you can dig it up and take it with you if you move.

After the Rain

2005-08-15T21:02:00.000-04:00

Thankfully, it rained a lot yesterday. The garden was very dry and some plants have many shriveled leaves.

The tomatoes are coming along well. The fruit color is shifting from green to red.

Overall, the garden is nearing the end of its peak period. Growth is slowing down on many plants and flowering has stopped.

Now, all that is required is general maintenance, weeding, and mild pruning. Next month, I will apply two or three inches of compost to feed the soil and enrich it for use next spring.

Things Are Growing Well

2005-07-25T15:22:00.000-04:00

There was a mild rain this morning. The garden needed it, but the plants seem to be holding up well despite the heat and lack of water.

Tomatoes are forming and the strawberry plants are coming along.

I did some weeding the other day and that's about it.

Thank You Rain

2005-07-17T09:01:00.000-04:00

The garden is a JUNGLE now. There is so much growing out there.

A few weeks ago, the pipe connected to the hose outside was vandalized by neighborhood brats that climbed the fence so I cannot water the garden. Fortunately, most of the plants are well established so a few dry spells is not too damaging.

It rained early this morning and has been raining enough over the past few weeks to keep everything from completely drying out.

I'll be glad when the pipe is repaired.

Perennials

2005-04-01T10:38:00.000-05:00

Perennials are by far my favorite garden plants. If properly cared for, they return every year without fail and grow larger and more beautiful each time. Perennials are magical.

Almost every plant in my garden is a perennial. The Hydrangeas, Roses, Hostas, Daylilies, Lily of the Valley, Clematis, Honeysuckle Vine, Ajuga, Bishop's Weed (a.k.a. Snow on the Mountain), Astilbe, Daffodils, Ivy, Ferns, and of course peonies all have their place and contribute their individual charm to the look and tone of my garden.

Once established, most perennial plants are very reliable and require minimal care, but after a few years some may become crowded or not perform well and need to be divided. Division renews the plant's vigor and allows you to propagate them to grow in other parts of your landscape. Another benefit of dividing your plants is that you can give them as gifts to friends, family or other avid gardeners.

Iris for example grows best when it is divided every three to four years. On the other hand, if planted correctly, peonies can happily grow undisturbed in the same location for over 100 years!

When planning an ornamental garden, perennials are sure to play a major role--if not the leading role!

Weeding

2005-04-01T10:29:00.000-05:00

Weeding is an important part of gardening. To me, anything is a weed if a plant is growing in a place I do not want it.

My Porcelain Vine is a vigorous grower and sets many seeds. Some of them, I allowed to grow because I didn't mind where the seedling set itself. Others I moved to a more appropriate place and there were some that I just removed and added to the compost bin.

For the little patches of grass and other nuisance plants growing on the flower beds; it is important to catch them as early as possible. Also, try to get rid of them before they flower and release seeds.

Placing a few inches of mulch over a weeded area will suppress them from returning. Avoid herbicides (weed killing chemicals) as they may be toxic to your surrounding plants.

Sowing Seeds

2005-03-22T11:27:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, in addition to working out in the garden, I sowed seeds.

In my Martha Stewart seed starting kit, I have Lady's Mantle, 'Giant Dahlia' flower mix Zinnias, Moonflower and Morning Glory.

Starting seeds indoors is a fun and easy way to get a garden started for spring. Read seed packet instructions and be patient. When sprouts appear give them plenty of light and good air circulation. Move them outdoors when they are strong and "hardened off".

"Hardening off" is the process of adjusting plants from indoor to outdoor conditions. For established seedlings, allow a couple of hours a day outside for about a week as you increase their time outside. This is good until they are hardy enough to stay outdoors. Then plant them in your flower bed or container garden accordingly.

Happy seed sowing!

Spring Sprouts

2005-03-21T22:06:00.000-05:00

Spring officially began sometime yesterday. I spent a few hours during the first full day of the season in my garden.

The daffodils are making their way out of the ground as heralds of spring!

My early season peonies "Miss America," (white semi-double flower) "Coral 'n' Gold," (coral-pink single flower) and an unidentified variety have sprouted. Their buds are red and have recently breached the soil's surface. Mid-to-late-season peonies, "Karl Rosenfeld," (crimson-red double flower) "Sarah Bernhardt," (blush pink double) and "Falcon" (mahogany red double) will sprout in the coming weeks.

I pruned the rose shrubs which also have begun to sprout buds. I sealed the cuts with non-toxic wood glue to keep rose borers and other parasites out of the exposed flesh. I learned that from the March 2005 issue of Martha Stewart Living.

I also pruned the clematis "Duchess of Edinburgh", viburnum shrub and Porcelain Vine.

Why prune? Many people think it is bad to cut plants back for fear of causing it harm. This is simply not true. When done properly, pruning is highly beneficial to your garden plants and houseplants.

Pruning helps control the rate and shape of growth of a plant. It promotes new, compact growth giving a fuller, more lush look. It also may provide cuttings useful to propagate a plant without having to purchase another one like it.

It is important to understand the natural growth habit of the plant you prune. Plants that grow very rapidly may require regular pruning to keep it under control and slower growing specimens may only need mild pruning to take on the form you choose.

Knowing when to prune will ensure that the plant's growth cycle is not interrupted. Some plants are best pruned in late summer to autumn while many benefit most from late winter early spring pruning.

For basic pruning, refer to garden manuals or your local garden center for details regarding important or expensive plants. Always research and learn about the plant you are pruning if you are not an experienced gardener. It is better to know before you cut, but as a rule; all damaged or diseased parts of a plant should be removed as soon as possible.

Make sharp clean cuts about 1/4 of an inch above a growth node (where the leaves protrude from the stem) at an angle in the direction you want the stem to grow. Plants that have two growth nodes on each side of the stem should be cut straight across above the node.

Remove small, lanky stems and branches so more energy is used for the large stronger ones.

The tool(s) used for pruning should be cleaned before using on another plant to prevent the spread of plant bacteria or viruses.

With practice and patience you and your plants will appreciate an good pruning.

Gardening Q & A

2005-03-13T15:05:00.000-05:00

I came across this while researching garden topics. It provides some useful information.

Spring is getting closer,
J

Q: How long do seeds last?
A: If seeds are kept in a cool, dry location they can last for several years. Place the seeds in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator. Silica gel packets placed into the seed container will keep the humidity level down. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, collards, kohlrabi, endive, cucumber, lettuce, pepper, radish, sunflower, and tomato seeds can be stored for at least five years. Beans, carrots, celery, parsley, peas, pumpkin and squash can be stored for at least three years. Corn, onion, parsnip and spinach seeds are not recommended for storage for more than one season.

Q: Can seeds from this season's plants be saved for next season?
A: It is first important to determine which type of plant the seeds will come from. Knowing the type will determine whether or not the seed is worth saving. There are two types of plants: Open-pollinated and Hybrid. Open-pollinated plants are just that...plants that have been allowed to freely pollinate. Seeds saved from open-pollinated plants will most likely produce plants similar in characteristics to their parents. Hybrid plants are those which have been produced by crossing two open-pollinated varieties in order to achieve specific characteristics such as flower color or size. Seeds from hybrid plants will produce plants that are lacking in characteristics most desired by the parent plant.

Q: When should my bulbs be planted?
A: As a general rule, spring flowering bulbs (daffodils and tulips) should be planted in fall and late Summer / Fall flowering bulbs (Liatris) should be planted in the Spring. Planting times will vary, depending on your climate zone, but remember that the earlier bulbs are planted in their required time frame, the better off they will be.

Q: Does a bigger bulb mean a better flower?
A: While a bigger bulb will most likely produce a bigger flower, it does not necessarily mean a better flower. The bulb of a smaller species will produce a smaller plant, but the quality may be equal, if not better than a bulb of a larger species.

Q: Should I pant tulips in sun or shade?
A: Tulips will do well in either sun or shade.

Q: I have a ton of earthworms in my garden, is this good or bad?
A: Earthworms are very beneficial to the garden. They aerate the soil as well as feed on decaying matter in the soil. Keep in mind that chemicals are toxic to earthworms, so use them sparingly.

Q: What does deadheading mean?
A: Deadheading is the act of removing spent and fading flowers. Removing the spent flower encourages new flower buds and prevents the plant from spending energy on developing seeds.

Q: What is the best time of day to cut flowers?
A: For indoor arrangements, flowers should be cut during the morning or evening. The heat of the mid-day may prove to be exhausting for the flowers and they will fade sooner.

Q: Is it OK to use shredded newspaper in my garden, either as a weed deterrent or tilled into the soil?
A: Yes, as long as you are sure there are no toxins in the newspaper. Stay away from the colored pieces as they contain metals that are toxic to your vegetables and plants.

Written by Kathleen Lewis
Copyright 2000-2004 Lewis Gardens

Spring Catalogs

2005-02-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

On of the best things about fall and winter is planning for spring! I receive several gardening catalogs that are fun to browse and help me plan what concepts and themes to convey. The vivid color photos of plants and flowers are exciting, and tremendously helpful in selecting specimens that will suit the garden most according to my tastes and aesthetics.

Since almost all of my established plants are perennials, this season is all about ground covers. In most cases, one would mulch their garden with various items including wood chips, tree bark, pine needles, compost or leaves. Of course, having a garden in an urban setting is a blessing, but if you do not have access to a motor vehicle, carrying heavy bags of mulch using public transportation is a curse.

One way around traditional mulching is to use plants that blanket the ground. Ground covers prevent soil erosion, choke out weeds, deter digging from garden pests like cats and squirrels, and add natural living beauty to the landscape.

Earlier today, I ordered some plants. The ground covers set to arrive in a few weeks are Evergreen Creeping Heath, Purple Wintercreeper, Walk-On-Me, and Creeping Phlox. These new plants will surely add color, foliage, and soil protection to the garden. Many of the varieties are fast-growing too--an added plus.

Other items I anticipate to arrive include Lavender, Honeysuckle vine, carnations, and a fern collection consisting of a Christmas Fern, Evergreen Wood Fern, Spinulose Wood Fern, Maidenhair Fern, Cinnamon Fern, and Interrupted Fern.

F.Y.I. I ordered online from InterStateNurseries.com, 4seasonsnurseries.com, and ExcitingGardens.com

Happy shopping!

Keep it green,
J

Plants Around the House

2005-02-20T15:11:00.000-05:00

It is important to repeat that during winter months plant growth is generally dormant. Therefore, water and fertilizer amounts should be adjusted accordingly until active growth resumes in spring.

Also, if natural light is lacking, consider grouping plants together in front of the window(s) that receive the most light during the day. Or purchase grow lights and group plants under them in order to maintain more constant levels of light and humidity.

Unfortunately, there have been some plant casualties in my home this winter. This serves to remind us that plants are living organisms requiring regular care. With busy schedules and activities, one must remember to make time for their plants.

Plants tell us something is wrong in many ways that include:

brown dry spots and patches on leaves and stems = usually a lack of water, or over fertilization
yellowing of leaves = either too much or too little water
loss of whole leaves = shock to the plant from moving or rapid temperature shifts
weak new growth = usually lack of light

Be aware of light, temperature, and humidity to prevent plant loss in your home during the fall and winter seasons.

Keep it green,
J