What is Deadheading?
How do I deadhead my plants? And why? I discussed deadheading last week on The Garden Lady and later in the program a caller remarked that it was suddenly clear to her how, and why, this garden task should be done. This listener isn’t alone in wondering why the...
Nasturtium Martini
Looking for a beverage that celebrates the summer garden? (Alcoholic or non-alcoholic.) Have I got a drink for you! Ingredients – Alcoholic 12 Nasturtium flowers plus a couple extra for garnish 2 oz Gin (I used The Botonist because, well, it’s the obvious...
I Love Tithonia Rotundifolia – Mexican Sunflower
Name: Tithonia rotundifolia aka Mexican sunflower Type of Plant: An annual for full sun that grows four to six feet high. Why I love this: I love orange flowers, and this one has orange-red blooms in spades. It’s a plant that attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and...
Proven Winners Porch Update
Here is a photo to show how my front porch, planted this year with annuals courtesy of Proven Winners, is flowering. Every year I try something a bit different, and this year I decided to go with a regional theme with green/blue pots and chairs. Note that these pots...
Cold Garden Veggie Soup
When your garden is producing and the weather is hot, you have the perfect ingredients for a cold summer soup. This recipe can be varied according to the veggies you have on hand. This week I used: Summer squash Green Beans Tuscan Kale Cilantro or herbs of choice...
Words to Live By
I Love Maxibel Green Beans
Name: Phseolus vulgaris Maxibel – aka the Maxibel green bean Type of Plant: A bush bean that produces haricot vert style beans, thin and tender. Why I love this: Extremely productive plants (see photos) that are filled with 6 to 7 inches long beans. These beans are...
How to Remember What You’ve Planted
I’ve had several queries by email recently from gardeners who have forgotten what they planted. Some of these are from people who are new to veggie gardening so they don’t recognize what’s growing as it matures. Others either have recently placed...
Growing Hydrangeas in Containers
You say you live where it’s cold, so the blue hydrangeas you plant never flower? Do you want to grow mophead or lacecap hydrangeas but you’re just a bit too far north? The solution is to grow these wonderful shrubs in containers. First, get a large pot...