Blog Archives

Perennials that withstand dry, hot conditions with little water

5/30/2024

Drought-tolerant perennials that are ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Flowering Perennials
Lavender - Known for its fragrant purple flowers and silvery-green foliage, lavender thrives in hot, dry conditions.

Echinacea - Also known as coneflower, it has daisy-like flowers and is extremely heat and drought-tolerant.

Yarrow - This perennial has feathery foliage and clusters of tiny flowers, available in various colors, and is very resilient in dry conditions. NOTE: don't buy the invasive yarrow - ask for the non-invasive variety at the garden nursery.

Black-Eyed Susan - Bright yellow flowers with dark centers that are very heat and drought-resistant.

Gaillardia - Also known as blanket flower, it produces vibrant red and yellow blooms and thrives in hot, dry climates.

Foliage Perennials
Sedum - Succulent plants with thick, water-storing leaves that come in various shapes and colors, ideal for hot, dry areas.

Russian Sage - Features tall spires of lavender-blue flowers and aromatic, silvery foliage.

Lamb's Ear - Known for its soft, fuzzy, silvery leaves, which are highly drought-resistant. Spreader, but pulls out easily.

Ground Covers
Ice Plant - A succulent ground cover with bright, daisy-like flowers that thrives in dry, sunny areas.

Creeping Thyme - Low-growing herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and small flowers, excellent for hot and dry conditions.

Chick and Hens - a favorite in gardens going back many decades, they have rosette-shaped succulent-like leaves, spread slowly (from the 'hen' to the 'chicks' which are the smaller offshoots that cluster around the hen).

Shrubs
Salvia - Many varieties of salvia are drought-tolerant, with vibrant flowers that attract pollinators.

Walker's Low Catmint - Not actually low - more like three feet tall and wide, this is an excellent perennial that looks like a shrub. Blooms May through freeze and is an excellent pollinator.

Rabbit Brush - Also called 'chamisa', these woody shrubs with bluegreen leaves and bright yellow blooms are generally two to five feet tall, but can reach as high as seven feet. Flower heads are made up of 5 small, yellow, tubular flowers, and are arranged in dense, rounded or flat-topped clusters at the ends of the branches. Flowers bloom from August to October.

Sonic Bloom Weigela - sports a flurry of pink or red blooms and even reblooms. Delivers rich color from May until first frost. No deadheading needed.

Discover even more drought-tolerant perennials here.

Photo: Black eyed Susan in bloom

Father's Day is Sunday, June 16 - here's our gift guide

5/30/2024

Dads are indispensable in the garden - they're growers and 'heavy lifters'. Give them a gift they'll love this Father's Day.

Thoughtful and practical gift ideas for Father's Day:

Quality pruning shears $63 (over 12,000 five star reviews and made for large hands)
Garden Kneeler $50 (heavy duty with a nice and thick pad for knees)
Soil moisture meter from $7 (helps monitor soil moisture levels for optimal watering).
Compost thermometer $23 (16 inches deep for reaching the center of the pile)
Decorative stone with special message or family name from $19

Garden clogs $40 (waterproof, premium quality, and made in the USA)

Gardening improves sleep according to new study

5/30/2024

More activity outside during the day means less sleep disruption at night.

A recent study in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that people who garden outdoors may have more quality sleep.

Lack of sleep can have a wide range of negative effects on both physical and mental health. Key consequences of poor sleep include a reduce ability to fight off infections and illnesses, higher likelihood of developing heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, difficulties with attention and concentration, and memory issues (the list goes on and on).

How to ensure adequate sleep for your overall health? Be a gardener!

The nationwide study included more than 60,000 participants and showed that those who gardened regularly had "lower odds of multiple sleep complaints" (i.e. sleep apnea and insomnia).

Other studies have shown that gardening may even improve dementia symptoms. This article from Real Simple details the benefits of spending time in outside, just being in nature (even if you don't garden).

Plants that improve soil quality

5/30/2024

**According to garden experts, you don't have to compost to improve soil quality.**

Improving soil quality can be achieved through the use of certain plants known for their beneficial impacts on soil health.

By incorporating these plants into your garden you can significantly improve soil quality, leading to overall healthier plant growth in that soil.

Here are some plants that are particularly effective at enhancing soil quality:

Legumes (e.g., clover, alfalfa, peas, beans)
Benefit: Legumes have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules. This process converts atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by plants, enriching the soil with nitrogen.

Cover Crops (e.g., rye, oats, barley, buckwheat):
Benefit: Cover crops protect the soil from erosion, add organic matter, and improve soil structure. They also suppress weeds and can help break pest cycles.

Deep-rooted Plants (e.g., radishes, turnips, marigolds, comfrey):
Benefit: Deep-rooted plants break up compacted soil layers and enhance soil aeration and drainage. They also bring up nutrients from deeper layers, making them available to other plants.

Grasses (e.g., alfalfa, ryegrass, fescue, bluegrass):
Benefit: Grasses have extensive root systems that stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and increase organic matter. They also enhance soil structure and promote beneficial microbial activity.

Dynamic Accumulators (e.g., comfrey, yarrow, dandelion):
Benefit: These plants accumulate high levels of certain nutrients in their tissues. When they die and decompose, they release these nutrients back into the soil, enriching it.

Green Manure Crops (e.g., hairy vetch, crimson clover, mustard):
Benefit: Green manures are grown specifically to be incorporated into the soil. They add organic matter and nutrients, improve soil structure, and enhance microbial activity.

Bioaccumulators (e.g., sunflowers, mustard):
Benefit: These plants can extract and concentrate heavy metals and other contaminants from the soil, helping to clean up polluted soils.

And also:
Milk Thistle - potassium-rich with strong deep roots that help break up soil and bring iron closer to the surface.

Lupine - this plant's roots benefit the soil by fixing nitrogen (and they're beautiful, easy to grow, and the deer don't like them).

Bloom Alert! The Iris Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens - Chatfield is now in its prime.

5/23/2024

400 of the irises are rare historical varieties that otherwise might be lost to time.

The iris collection at Chatfield Botanic Gardens are part of a nationwide horticultural heritage movement to preserve heirloom irises.

Click here for more info. Note: this Botanic Garden location is closed May 28 - 29 for a private event.

Father's Day Gift Idea

5/23/2024

One awesome tool and a special rhubarb recipe to bake for Dad on Father's Day.

The many applications of garden augers
A garden auger is a tool designed to dig holes in the ground with precision and ease. It consists of a long, spiral-shaped metal shaft resembling a large drill bit. They are typically attached to power drills, which provide the rotational force needed to drive the auger into the soil.

Soil Preparation Made Easy: Garden augers excel in making it effortless to prepare the soil for planting bulbs, annuals, perennials, shrubs, or trees. The rotating spiral tip cuts through the soil, creating neatly formed holes of consistent depth and diameter, providing optimal conditions for root growth.

Installing Posts and Fencing: Whether you're setting up a garden trellis, securing a fence, or constructing a pergola, augers simplify the task by efficiently drilling holes in the ground. Posts will be firmly anchored in the soil, providing stability and durability.

Aeration and Soil Amendments: Augers are valuable tools for aerating and amending the soil. By drilling holes at regular intervals, you can improve soil drainage, prevent compaction, and enhance nutrient absorption.

Garden augers come in various sizes, allowing you to select the one that suits your specific needs. They are available in both manual and powered versions, and also with detachable auger bits, enabling you to switch between hole sizes as needed.

Find the right auger for your project with this plant auger guide from Power Planter.

Impress Dad with Rhubarb Muffins on Father's Day
Recipe courtesy of Spend With Pennies

Ingredients

2 cups rhubarb chopped
1 ¾ cups flour all-purpose
⅔ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 egg beaten
½ cup milk
½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla
streusel topping (below)

Streusel Topping (optional):
Combine the following with a fork until crumbly: 3 tablespoons flour, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 ½ tablespoons softened butter and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.

2 tablespoons pecans or chopped almonds can be added to the topping.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°. Grease twelve muffin wells or line with paper liners.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a large bowl with a whisk.
In a small bowl, whisk egg, milk, yogurt, vanilla, and oil.
Add the rhubarb to the flour mixture and toss to combine. Make a well in the dry ingredients and add the wet ingredients.
Stir just until moistened. Do not overmix the batter!
Divide the muffin batter over 12 wells. Top with streusel topping if using.
Bake for 16 to 19 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Remove from muffin pan and cool completely on a baking rack.

Farmer's Almanac for June

5/22/2024

Advice, and gardening secrets/tips for June

June 5 - World Environment Day - release beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps, near plants to rid them of aphids. Parasitic wasps generally do not sting and are not pests.
June 14 - Flag Day
June 16 - Father's Day (good gift for gardening Dads is here)
June 20 - Summer Solstice (The Garden Club's first annual Summer Solstice Happy Hour will be on Saturday June 22 (not the exact Summer Solstice date for 2024 but close enough!)
June 24 - Many gardeners and farmers regard this day as the midpoint of the growing season.

Tips and garden advice from Almanac:

Strawberries need 1 inch of water per week throughout the growing season. Mulch plants with straw to conserve moisture.
Blue flag iris will brighten any garden with vivid lavender-blue flowers. Avoid yellow flag iris, which is an invasive species.
Take good care of the best gardening tool you have - YOU! Keep your circulation up with brisk walks and plenty of fresh air.
Plant warm season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash when daytime temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees F.
Be ruthless when thinning carrots - allowing at least 1/2 inch of space between plants. You'll thank yourself at harvesttime.

Harvest rhubard stalks by pulling gently from the base of the clump.
Turn a privacy fence into an attractive landscape feature by training fast-growing vines along it such as clematis or noninvasive Major Wheeler Coral Honeysuckle.

Credit: Old Farmer's Almanac

Celebrate Reduce your Lawn Day!

5/22/2024

Convert the underutilized spaces in your yard for a better world

The proactive minds at High Country Gardens are working to educate, inspire, and help homeowners reduce or replace their lawns (typically water-sucking and chemically fertilized Kentucky Bluegrass).

Through their innovative Reduce Your Lawn Day Contest, you'll have the opportunity to submit your pledge to reduce some or all of your lawns. DEADLINE TO SUBMIT YOUR PLEDGE IS MAY 27th!

The program gives four reasons to reduce your lawn:

Create and reestablish Habitat (turfgrass is a dead zone for pollinators and birds)
Reduce Pollution in your yard (i.e. gas powered mowers and blowers, noise...)
Remove Harmful Chemicals from your yard (fertilizers and pesticides)
Feel the benefits of a better yard (better for your health overall).

The website for the program lists lawn facts, gives planting projects ideas, and has a Giveaway with prizes including certificates, gardening tools, and more. Read more about this innovative program and sign the pledge here.

If you are interested in seeing a lawn replaced entirely with Dryland Grass Seed, email us at [email protected] and we will connect you with a member who has successfully achieved this (and it wasn't complicated to do).

Thanks to Garden Club member Lene Dorman for this article suggestion.

Douglas County's new tool to help residents identify and manage invasive weeds

5/22/2024

New online tool helps identify common invasive weeds

Douglas County is working hard to help residents identify and control invasive weeds. Their new online tool is called Invasive Weeds Virtual Environment and upon entering the site you are given the option to click 'Landowner' or 'Homeowner'.

From there you are given the options of clicking on informational icons such as:

Introduction
Most Common Weeds
Environmental Impacts
County Resources
Managing Invasive Weeds

The problem with invasive weeds is that they take up resources like water and soil nutrients, creating dry fuel for wildfires and taking away from healthy, soil nourishing native crops. When natives don't have enough of the resources they need, they don't thrive and the land and soil suffers, drying out and becoming depleted of nutrients it needs to sustain a healthy ecosystem.

To combat the threat of invasive weeds, local state and federal governments have implemented strict laws to control their spread. In Colorado, the Noxious Weed Management Act requires people to control, contain, and eradicate these invasive weeds on their private property.

The new online tool makes it easy for you to identify invasive weeds, provides info on how to keep them under control, and get support to eliminate them.

Photo shows cheatgrass, the most prolific invasive weed in Colorado. It's easy to pull right out and if you don't it spreads millions of seeds if left to go to seed. Here's our 2022 article about this particular invasive weed.

Lady Bird Johnson - champion of wildflowers and native plants

5/17/2024

This passionate nature lover transformed the American landscape

Lady Bird Johnson, born Claudia Alta Taylor on December 22, 1912, in Karnack, Texas, made an indelible mark on American society as a tireless advocate for beautification and conservation.

Her most notable achievement was the passage of the Highway Beautification Act of 1965, which aimed to control outdoor advertising and enhance roadside aesthetics. This legislation led to the planting of millions of trees and flowers along highways across the country, leaving a lasting legacy of beauty and sustainability.

Beyond her work in environmental conservation, Lady Bird co-founded the National Wildflower Research Center (now the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center) in Austin, Texas, dedicated to preserving native plants and landscapes.

Lady Bird Johnson's love for bluebonnets was evident in her efforts to plant millions of bluebonnet seeds along highways, creating stunning displays of wildflowers (and also native plants) that raised awareness about the importance of preserving native habitats across all of America's lands.

My special cause ...is to preserve the wildflowers and native plants that define the regions of our land. - Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson 1912 - 2007

True or false? Separating garden fact from fiction.

5/17/2024

It can be difficult to know if stuff about gardening that we read on the internet (or hear from others) is true.

In this article from The Old Farmer's Almanac helps to dispel commonly believed myths related to gardening, and will save you time, money, and wasted effort too.

Take a look at commonly held beliefs and garden advice topics, and see if you know which are true, and which are myths:

Add sand to improve clay soil
Water droplets burn leaves
Pine needles acidify soil
Dress tree wounds and cuts
Sugared soil gives sweet tomatoes
Planting in rows is best
Problems in the garden? Add more compost to the soil
Leftover tea makes a great fertilizer
Top a tree to control the height
Add a layer of gravel to the bottom of containers to improve drainage

Click here to find out which is true and which is false, or sort of not true.

Credit: Old Farmer's Almanac

Plants you shouldn't grow next to each other

5/17/2024

Some plants just aren't compatible.

Some plants don't like growing in close proximity to other plants, for a variety of reasons. Here are examples of what plants don't qualify as 'companions':

Moisture-loving and drought-tolerant plants. Too much moisture can create root-rot in drought-tolerant plants.

Gardenias with anything - they're known for chronic diseases and they spread the diseases to plants around them, killing them all.

Garlic with other vegetables - garlic builds up sulfur in the soil, and too much of a good thing can stunt the growth of plants that don't need extra sulfur.

Knockout roses and Annabelle hydrangeas - while they look fabulous next to one another in flower bouquets, in the ground these two have different growing requirements. Roses love a lot of sun while hydrangeas prefer shade. Both like to fill a space and have different types of root systems, so you don't want them to compete with each other or neither will thrive.

Tomatoes and potatoes - they are in the same family and will compete for nutrients and get (and share) the same diseases i.e. blight. You'll also want to keep tomatoes growing away from cabbage and broccoli and any other crops in the Brassica family.

Mint and everything else - mint is best suited for container planting as it quickly takes over a space and outcompetes anything around it.

Monarda (Bee Balm - shown in photo above) and Cucumbers and/or Squash - Bee balm is unfortunately susceptible to powdery mildew (a persistent fungal disease), and you do NOT want this spreading to your cucumbers or anywhere in your garden. Plant Monarda in a container or well away from cukes. The plant itself is a good pollinator which is beneficial to cucumbers, just not in close proximity.

Woodpeckers hammering your house?

5/17/2024

Learn why woodpeckers hammer, and how to make them stop doing it on your house.

Woodpeckers are beautiful birds, as evidenced in the photo above (northern flicker, the most common woodpecker in Colorado). But anyone who has ever had a woodpecker problem knows how destructive they can be.

You hear them first, and then come out to inspect your home and see little holes in horizontal rows on your siding (larger holes are indicative of a bigger problem - woodpeckers trying to create a nesting site).

Woodpeckers can be attracted to houses for various reasons, including searching for insects, drumming to establish territory, or excavating nesting sites. To deter woodpeckers from hammering on your house, you can try the following methods:

Visual Deterrents: Hang shiny objects such as reflective tape, aluminum foil strips, or CDs near the areas where woodpeckers are active. The movement and reflection of light may scare them away.
Scare Tactics: Install scare devices such as predator decoys (plastic owls or hawks), motion-activated sprinklers, or noise-making devices near the areas where woodpeckers are causing damage. These tactics startle woodpeckers and discourage them from returning.
Physical Barriers: This is considered one of the most effective deterrents. Cover the affected areas of your house with lightweight, flexible netting or mesh, such as bird netting or hardware cloth, to prevent woodpeckers from accessing the surface to peck.
Repellents: Apply taste or scent repellents to the areas where woodpeckers are active. Commercial repellents or homemade solutions made with ingredients like hot peppers, garlic, or vinegar can deter woodpeckers by creating an unpleasant taste or smell.
Habitat Modification: Make your property less attractive to woodpeckers by removing dead or infested trees, trimming overhanging branches, and sealing any gaps or holes in your house where insects may be present.
Provide Alternative Roosting Sites: Install birdhouses or nest boxes in your yard to provide alternative nesting sites for woodpeckers. Placing these structures away from your house may encourage woodpeckers to choose them over your siding or trim.
Legal Protections: In some areas, woodpeckers are protected by federal or state laws, so it's important to check local regulations before taking any actions that may harm or disturb them.

It may take some trial and error to find the most effective method for deterring woodpeckers from hammering on your house. Combining multiple strategies and being persistent in your efforts will increase your chances of success in keeping woodpeckers away from your property.

Why do woodpeckers like to hammer on houses? This article from CornellLab explains, and provides additional ideas for keeping them away.

Is Epsom salt good for plants?

5/16/2024

Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfur, two essential nutrients that plants require for healthy growth. But...

Many believe that using Epsom salt on plants improves their growth and development. You'll see recipes on the internet for sprays, and instructions on how to work it into the soil.

According to Old Farmer's Almanac, however, Epsom salt is not good for plants or the soil. This trending garden hack is a "gardening myth".

If you soil is sandy, lightweight, and/or low pH (conditions that are prone to magnesium deficiency), then add compost to raise the level of organic matter in the soil.

Sulfur helps plants with vitamins and plant proteins. If a plant has young leaves that are yellow, a lack of sulfur may be the culprit. Note that sulfur is not commonly deficient in garden soils in North America. If you think your plants lack sulfur, a sterilized manure is a good additive to the soil. Our Resources page has an excellent resource for sterilized manure - and it's free!

Read the Old Farmer's full article about Epsom salts here.

Dutch Heritage Gardens in Larkspur Open House is on Memorial Day weekend AND a special bonus weekend too!

5/10/2024

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Dutch Heritage Gardens is a local treasure in the plant growing arena.

Dutch Heritage Gardens is a local treasure in the plant growing arena. They are a commercial grower of plants and flowers for companies such as Kroger and Whole Foods. Their offerings include gorgeous container gardens, herbs (basil and parsley), and locally grown and zone appropriate plants.

This coming Memorial Day weekend (and for the first time, the weekend after too), Dutch Heritage Gardens' wholesale nursery/wholesale florist is holding an open house where you can tour the greenhouses and make make plant purchases.

Bring a truck, and expect long lines.Worth it for the gorgeous plants you get to buy!

Open House Dates: May 24 - 26, 2024 AND May 31 - June 2, 2024
Location: 11901 E Palmer Divide Ave, Larkspur, CO 80118

All the details here.

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Mushroom Farm Tours

5/8/2024

Fresh from the Farm Fungi is hosting Friday mushroom farm tours in Sedalia

About the tours from the Fresh from the Farm Fungi website:

"Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of fungi and discover the magic of mushroom cultivation. Our farm tour offers a unique opportunity to explore our lush mushroom fields, learn about sustainable farming practices and interact with owner, Gary Heferle.

During the tour, you'll have the chance to witness the entire mushroom growing process, from spore to harvest. Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the different mushroom varieties we cultivate, their health benefits and how they can be incorporated into delicious recipes.

...stroll through our enchanting farm, surrounded by the earthy aroma of mushrooms. You'll learn about the optimal growing conditions, the importance of organic farming and the role fungi play in our ecosystem.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious about the world of fungi, this farm tour is perfect for you! "

Friday mornings from now through September. Register here.

Not able to make the tour in person? Click here for their virtual tour.

About Fresh from the Farm Fungi Farm

Recipes that use Spring garden veggies and herbs

5/6/2024

Spring is a wonderful time to enjoy fresh, vibrant produce bursting with flavor and nutrients.

These recipes celebrate the fresh flavors of spring produce and are perfect for enjoying the bounty of the season. Customize them with your favorite herbs, spices, and additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Spring Pea and Mint Soup
Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups fresh or frozen peas
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Add the peas and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped mint leaves. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with additional vegetable broth or water. Serve hot, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint.

Pickled Radishes
Ingredients

1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt
Optional: spices such as black peppercorns, garlic cloves, or red pepper flakes

Instructions

Wash the radishes thoroughly and trim off the tops and roots. Slice the radishes thinly using a knife or mandoline slicer.
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. If using any additional spices, add them to the saucepan as well.
Bring the vinegar mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Place the sliced radishes in a clean glass jar or container. Pour the warm vinegar mixture over the radishes, ensuring that they are fully submerged.
Allow the pickled radishes to cool to room temperature, then cover the jar or container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
Serve the pickled radishes as a tangy and crunchy condiment alongside sandwiches, salads, tacos, or grilled meats. Enjoy!

These pickled radishes will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or acidity of the pickling liquid to suit your taste preferences.

Roasted Spring Vegetable Platter
Ingredients

1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed
1 bunch baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
1 bunch radishes, trimmed and halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Place the trimmed asparagus, baby carrots, and halved radishes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
Toss the vegetables to coat evenly in the oil and seasoning. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and starting to caramelize around the edges.
Remove from the oven and transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving platter. Serve hot or at room temperature as a delicious side dish or appetizer.

Weeping Trees

5/6/2024

Known for their cascading branches, weeping trees are a striking and graceful addition to any landscape.

Characterized by their drooping branches, weeping trees come in a variety of species, including weeping willows, weeping cherries, and weeping beeches.

Weeping trees are prized for their ornamental value and are often used as focal points in gardens, parks, and public spaces, where their graceful form and gentle movement add a sense of tranquility and elegance to the surroundings.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, weeping trees also offer practical benefits, such as providing shade, shelter, and habitat for wildlife.

Their cascading branches create dappled shade beneath the canopy, making them ideal for planting near ponds, streams, or landscape water features. Weeping trees are also valued for their ability to stabilize soil along riverbanks and waterways, helping to prevent erosion and protect fragile ecosystems.

Whether planted as solitary specimens or incorporated into larger landscape designs, weeping trees are sure to enhance the beauty of any outdoor space.

Best weeping trees for our area
Weeping Cherry Tree
Tolleson's Green Weeping Rocky Mountain Juniper
Pink Cascade® Weeping Cherry
Willow Weeping Pussy
Weeping Crabappple 'Louisa'
Weeping Norway Spruce
More varieties click here

How to care for weeping trees
Caring for weeping trees involves providing them with adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering.

Provide regular, deep watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather. However, be careful not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot and other problems.
Prune weeping trees regularly to maintain their shape and remove dead or diseased branches to improve air circulation within the canopy.

Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and monitor for pests and diseases, treating any issues promptly.
Monitor your weeping trees regularly for signs of pests such as aphids, scale insects, or fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

With proper care, weeping trees can thrive and provide beauty to your landscape for years to come.

Top 10 Cat and Dog Toxins

5/5/2024

It's especially important to keep our pets healthy during gardening season

Top 10 CatToxins

Lilies
Chocolate
Antidepressants & Anti-anxiety Meds
Ibuprofin
Onions
Vitamin D3
Amphetamine Combos
Pothos/Devil's Ivy
Garlic
Carprofen

Top 10 Dog Toxins

Chocolate
Grapes and raisins
Xylitol
Ibuprofen
Bromethalin
Marijuana
Anticoagulant rodenticides
Vitamin D3
Onions/chives/leeks/shallots
Carprofen

Credit: Pet Poison Hotline | 855-886-7965

Raspberry FREE plants - Tuesday May 14 from 5-7pm

5/5/2024

Bring your pots and shovel and dig as many raspberry plants as you like

This year's raspberry dig will be Tuesday evening May 14 from 5-7pm.

Bring your own pots and shovel; soil on property will be provided for free.

About the raspberry plants:
These are heirloom raspberries (also called heritage raspberries) that grow on the primocane (bear fruit on the current season's growth). They get cut back each fall and grow new canes the next spring that bear the fruit.

Heritage/heirloom varieties have been passed down through generations and are considered to be of historical or cultural significance.

Heritage raspberries are often prized for their unique flavor, texture, and appearance, and are sometimes more fragile than modern commercial varieties. They come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, black, and purple.

Harvest begins in late summer and lasts until the first hard fall frost.

They make amazing jams, are beautiful in muffins, excellent in a cocktail, and also freeze well.

Location: Northeast corner of Hess and Motsenbocker Roads in Parker. We'll have the Garden Club sign to direct you where to turn in.

Most beautiful botanical gardens in the U.S.

5/3/2024

Known for their meticulously curated landscapes and garden styles.

Botanic gardens are institutions dedicated to the cultivation, study, and conservation of plants for scientific, educational, and aesthetic purposes. These gardens play a vital role in preserving plant diversity and educating us about the importance of plants and their role in sustaining life on Earth.

Key aspects of botanic gardens

Botanic gardens typically maintain extensive collections of living plants, including a diverse array of species from around the world which may include native, medicinal, and ornamental plants, rare and endangered species, economically important crops.

Conservation is a central mission of many botanic gardens. These institutions work to preserve plant diversity through seed banking, ex situ conservation (cultivating plants outside their natural habitats), habitat restoration, and reintroduction of endangered species into their native environments.

Hubs for scientific research and education. Researchers at botanic gardens study plant taxonomy, ecology, genetics, and physiology, among other disciplines.

Botanic gardens often serve as sources of inspiration for landscape designers, horticulturists, and garden enthusiasts. Many botanic gardens conduct research on plant propagation, cultivation techniques, and garden design principles, contributing to the advancement of horticultural practices.

They serve as gathering places for local communities, fostering a sense of stewardship and appreciation for the natural world. Visitors enjoy strolls through garden paths, participate in guided tours and workshops, attend cultural events and festivals, and connect with nature.

Here are some of the most gorgeous botanical gardens in the U.S.

Denver Botanic Gardens - a local treasure
We are fortunate to have an incredible botanic garden here in Colorado. If you haven't visited Denver Botanic Gardens recently, put it on your summer bucket list!

Established in 1951, the gardens span over 24 acres and are divided into multiple themed areas, including a Japanese garden, a tropical conservatory, a rock alpine garden, and a water-smart garden.

The gardens showcase a wide variety of plant species adapted to our region's semi-arid climate, highlighting the beauty and diversity of Colorado's natural landscapes.

Tips for growing herbs in pots

5/3/2024

Enjoy fresh, flavorful herbs right from your own pots regardless of the season.

Whether you have limited space or just want to keep them close to your kitchen for easy access, growing herbs in pots is a convenient way to have fresh herbs at your fingertips when cooking.

Tips for success with herbs in pots

Choose the Right Size Pot: Select pots that are large enough to accommodate the mature size of your herbs and provide ample room for root growth. Most herbs prefer pots that are at least 6-8 inches deep with adequate drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Quality Potting Mix: A potting mix formulated for container gardening is best. Don't use garden soil, as it can become compacted and hinder root growth. Mix in perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage and aeration.
Provide Adequate Sunlight: Most herbs prefer full sun, so place your pots in a sunny location where they will receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you don't have access to full sun, consider growing herbs that tolerate partial shade, such as mint, parsley, and cilantro.
Water Consistently: Water your herbs regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture regularly by sticking your finger into the soil; if it feels dry an inch below the surface, it's time to water.
Fertilize Occasionally: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for container plants, and apply according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Prune Regularly: Regular pruning helps to encourage bushy growth and prevent herbs from becoming leggy or overcrowded. Pinch off the leaves or tips of stems as needed for culinary use, which also promotes new growth.
Watch for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, or fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If you notice problems, treat promptly with organic insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any affected leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.

Herbs for fragrance
Herbs for planting together
Herbs for medicinal use

Better Homes & Gardens lists annual herbs, biennial herbs, perennial herbs, herbs for full sun, and herbs for part-sun/partial shade here.

The first crop grown by humans

5/1/2024

Farmed as early as 12,000 years ago, this grain endures today.

Einkorn wheat holds a significant place in the history of agriculture and human civilization. Believed to be one of the earliest cultivated grains, einkorn has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period.

Its cultivation began in the Fertile Crescent, a region encompassing parts of modern-day Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Iran, where it played a vital role in the development of early farming communities.

Archaeological evidence suggests that einkorn was domesticated by ancient hunter-gatherer societies who began to settle and cultivate crops.

The cultivation of einkorn marked a significant milestone in human history, as it represented the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural societies, leading to the rise of civilization in the Near East.

Einkorn was a staple food source for some of the earliest civilizations. Used to make flatbreads, porridges, and gruels, it provided sustenance and nourishment to ancient peoples.

Its cultivation spread throughout the ancient world, reaching as far as Europe and Central Asia, where it continued to be cultivated for millennia.

Today, einkorn is experiencing a resurgence in popularity among farmers, bakers, and consumers who appreciate its nutritional qualities, unique flavor, and connection to our ancient past.

Characterized by its distinctive hulled seeds and tall, slender stalks, einkorn is prized for its nutritional qualities and unique flavor profile. Compared to modern wheat varieties, einkorn kernels are smaller, denser, and contain a higher percentage of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also lower in gluten, making it more digestible for some individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Einkorn is the only 'diploid' wheat species, meaning it has two sets of chromosomes (14) compared to modern wheat which is a hexaploid (six sets or 42 chromosomes).

Bill Gates has written a fascinating article about ancient grains on his blog. Titled "Could a grain older than the wheel be the future of food?", it delves into the possibilities of these 'lost' crops in tackling climate change and malnutrition. Gates has famously said that malnutrition would be the first problem he would solve if he had a 'magic wand' to solve any problem in the world.

Mother's Day Gifts Round 2

5/1/2024

Drought-tolerant perennials that are ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Dads are indispensable in the garden - they're growers and 'heavy lifters'. Give them a gift they'll love this Father's Day.

More activity outside during the day means less sleep disruption at night.

According to garden experts, you don't have to compost to improve soil quality.

400 of the irises are rare historical varieties that otherwise might be lost to time.

One awesome tool and a special rhubarb recipe to bake for Dad on Father's Day.

Advice, and gardening secrets/tips for June

Convert the underutilized spaces in your yard for a better world

New online tool helps identify common invasive weeds

This passionate nature lover transformed the American landscape

It can be difficult to know if stuff about gardening that we read on the internet (or hear from others) is true.

Some plants just aren't compatible.

Learn why woodpeckers hammer, and how to make them stop doing it on your house.

Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfur, two essential nutrients that plants require for healthy growth. But...

Dutch Heritage Gardens is a local treasure in the plant growing arena.

Fresh from the Farm Fungi is hosting Friday mushroom farm tours in Sedalia

Spring is a wonderful time to enjoy fresh, vibrant produce bursting with flavor and nutrients.

Known for their cascading branches, weeping trees are a striking and graceful addition to any landscape.

It's especially important to keep our pets healthy during gardening season

Bring your pots and shovel and dig as many raspberry plants as you like

Known for their meticulously curated landscapes and garden styles.

Enjoy fresh, flavorful herbs right from your own pots regardless of the season.

Farmed as early as 12,000 years ago, this grain endures today.

More great gifts for Mom!

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**According to garden experts, you don't have to compost to improve soil quality.**