Speaking of soil testing time, one result that we often find in soil tests that come back from the lab is bound-up, high levels of Phosphorus. This mineral is very hard to unlock, so this work is undertaken over several seasons. The ideal level of Phosphorus is 75 ppm (parts per million). We often find…
Start with the soil, as always. Phlox paniculata prefers a mineral rich, limy soil, with lots of organic matter. Moisture is preferred over droughty summers, and we certainly had a moist spring this year. Then be sure to site the phlox plants in full sun. My soil test showed low Potassium, as we find in many…
Finish pruning spring blooming shrubs and trees Enjoy the color of dahlias, native hibiscus, Rose of Sharon and phlox Plan changes to your garden this fall Keep watering anything newly planted last fall or this season Patrol beds for deadheading and weeding through the coming month Deadleaf daylilies as you cut spent stalks, removing yellowed…
Our compost tea program is now segueing into the summer season with applications of Summer Foods. This means we are quite literally providing food for the large colonies of microscopic life in your soil through the hot weather. These “good guys” are actively seeking sustenance so that they can fulfill their role as predators of…
You’re not alone. Munching on daylily flowers, hosta leaves, phlox, sedum, new growth on hydrangea, weigela, viburnum, witch hazel and more has been reported as we make our rounds. The deer seem to seek moisture and tender new tips of plants at this hot time of year. Cut back damaged stems and leaves on perennials…
This beautiful native plant is blooming now! You may wonder why a rhododendron is blooming so late, and this is a positive ID for Rhododendron maximum, or the Rosebay rhododendron. Living up to its name, it is our tallest rhododendron growing 10′-25′ tall and wide. We often use it in designs where year-round screening is called for and…
Tall bearded iris are the one plant that can be divided and transplanted at this warm time of the year! Blooming from late May into June, these plants enter dormancy in the hot summer. The spreading rhizomes are easily dug up with a spading fork, separated, roots trimmed, and replanted in a gritty soil mixture in full…