Seasonal Chores
& Observations
In addition to our outdoor decorations of wreaths, greens and berries, our house seems to be covered with winter moths. They are especially visible in the evenings around the front-door light... Read More...
Snippets...
Scenic Vistas and Current Events in Massachusetts State Parks
2015 UMass Garden Calendar is Now Available
Indoor Watering Without Damage to Rugs
Read More Snippets...Thursday, January 29 - Sunday, February 01
in Worcester
Flora in Winter: Exhibition of Art-Inspired Floral Displays
Thursday, January 29
in Wellesley
Fundamentals of Growing Orchids - Mass Hort Society - Lecture
Friday, January 30
in Acton
Skate Night at NARA Park
Saturday, January 31
in Boylston
Legacy in Blue: Recapturing an Iconic Newport Garden - Lecture @ Tower Hill Botanic Garden
Tuesday, February 03
in Andover
Tree and People Hugging - Lecture - Andover Garden Club
Wednesday, February 04
in Cambridge
Humans and Wildlife: The New Imbalance - Free Lecture
Wednesday, February 04
in Boston
Searching for the Histories of Boston's Public Garden - Lecture
Wednesday, February 04 - Friday, February 06
in Boston
New England Grows Conference & Expo
A New Twist on an Historic Tradition
According to a recent Jackson & Perkins press release, decorating with fresh-cut evergreens has been a beloved tradition for centuries and still is today.
An evergreen accent that's increasing in popularity is the kissing ball, which has its origins in the Middle Ages.
Villagers would create ball-shaped ornaments made of twine and evergreen branches. In the center, they would place a clay figure of an infant representing the baby Jesus.
Called "holy boughs," they were hung from the ceiling along passages in castles and large houses. They were said to render blessings to those who passed beneath...