One of the benefits of being a garden writer is receiving review copies of newly published garden books. I recently received “All about Flowers” written by Thomas J. Mickey, whom I first met through The Garden Writers Association (GWA), as it was called back in the day. The book tells the story of James Vick … Continue reading Summer Reading →

According to our local weather forecasters, this month’s many days of 90-degree-plus temperatures have resulted in “the longest June heat wave in nearly a century.” And the pollen count has been the worst we can remember. For sure, every raindrop has been welcomed with open arms. The Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa) blooms have been extraordinary. … Continue reading It’s Officially Summer! →

It’s so good to see the perennials emerging after their winter slumber: Mayapples, Peonies, Hostas, Daylilies, Iris, Ferns, Sedums, Trilliums, etc. The flowers of the Grape Hyacinth bulbs (Muscari armeniacum) are beautiful and long lasting. However, many consider the plants to be invasive. We are told that removing old blooms before they set seeds, or … Continue reading Perennials Emerging →

April promises us some brighter, warmer days. Daylight Saving Time began on March 14, and spring arrived on March 20. Sunsets have been getting later, as our days are getting longer. The white Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), our earliest flowering bulbs, did not disappoint us this year. Taking their place now are the blue Siberian Squills … Continue reading Brighter Days Ahead →