Friday, March 15, 2024

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up March: Long Island Garden Signs of Spring!

Welcome!
Welcome! There are signs of spring everywhere as the temperatures warm into the mid to upper 50's to 60's after two inches of rain and sixty mile an hour winds just a few days ago. Look around and you will see colorful foliage and blooms emerging everywhere from their winters sleep and the garden changing day by day as we head towards spring. I can see a difference in the timing of blooms as they seem to be a couple of weeks earlier this year. Perhaps the groundhog was right, but as well all know, March is an unpredictable month. Join me for a tour of my Long Island garden!
Welcoming Committee
The Welcoming Committee is here to greet you and the first stop is the along patio border.
Purple Crocus & Hyacinths too
With the rain and warming temperatures, crocus started coming up everywhere and rather quickly. It was just a few days ago that it was just foliage emerging from the ground. Along the patio border is purple crocus with the foliage of Hyacinths behind it. There will be more blooms to follow as spring gets underway.
Hellebore 'Champion' (Lenten Rose)
In the pool border winter blooming Hellebore 'Champion' is now in full bloom as it thrives in the shade cast by a Weeping White Pine. I enjoy the yellowish-green color of  the bracts on this variety.
Hellebore 'Champion' (Lenten Rose)
Here are its amazing blooms closer up. You can get a view of the pinkish undersides which provide an additional touch of color.
More Purple Crocus!
As you may have guessed by now, I have an admiration for purple crocus! I love how the blooms symbolize spring and the shades of purple do vary a bit. This one seems to have a little more white in its veins compared to the others.
Hellebore 'Merlin' (Lenten Rose)
Along the back perimeter is Hellebore 'Merlin' in bloom with its pinkish bracts and central yellow flowers. 'Merlin' tends to start blooming in February and continues through March, providing months of interest.
Leucothoe 'Axillaris' Late Winter
In the back shade border Leucothoe 'Axillaris' is displaying a slightly reddish tint to its foliage this time of year...
'Nellie Stevens' Holly Berries Late Winter
and the berries of Nellie Stevens' Holly are at their best.
Japanese Skimmia
Also in the back shade garden is Japanese Skimmia forming its buds. Creamy white fragrant blooms will follow in mid-spring.
Blue Atlas Cedar and Juniper 'Gold Lace'
For some foliage, here is Blue Atlas Cedar and Juniper 'Gold Lace' on the northern front island bed. This is just another combination that supplies color and interest year round.
Hellebore 'Shooting Star' (Lenten Rose)
On the northern side of the property Hellebore 'Shooting Star' has been blooming since January...
Sedum 'Brilliant' Rosettes
and the rosettes of Sedum 'Brilliant' are now emerging in the southern part of the garden.
White Crocus
Some white blooming Crocus add a sense of purity to the garden...
Allium 'Globemaster'
as the foliage of Allium 'Globemaster' emerges. Giant lavender-purple blooms will appear on tall stalks during the month of June!
Spirea 'Candy Corn' Budding Out
I purchased this newer cultivar of dwarf Spirea named 'Candy Corn' last season and decided to put it into a planter by the back door. It stays more compact only growing two feet in height and width and has the most amazing foliage, colored like candy corn! I was surprised to see it getting buds before any of the other Spirea. 
Anna's Magic Ball Arborvitae'
For more foliage on the front eastern side island bed is 'Anna's Magic Ball' Arborvitae with its yellow hue which stays year round. Behind it to add some darker contrast is Dwarf Mugo Pine.
Pieris 'Cavatine' Buds
On the same island bed is Pieris 'Cavatine', a dwarf form of Japanese Andromeda. It's foliage is evergreen and soon its buds will open into little bell-shaped flowers.
Front Island Bed
I often get comments about the tree in the left backdrop. It is Coral Bark Maple 'Sango Kaku' and it is prized for its beautiful pinkish-red bark, which becomes even more vibrant as the temperatures cool. To the right of  the Coral Bark Maple is Skyland's Golden Oriental Spruce and in the direct center of the island bed is a Weeping Norway Spruce. Spirea 'Lemon Princess', Spirea 'Big Bang' and various perennials join the evergreens. Gardening Tip: Late winter/early spring is the time to prune back your Spirea to encourage fullness, new growth and to encourage blooms. 
Seasonal Planter
The seasonal planters always bring me joy whatever the season and this one which I have had for a few years now is thriving. This combo is Dwarf Alberta Spruce, 'Whipcord' Arborvitae, Boxwood and Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, which resides by the back gate entry. 
Seasonal Planter
The planter I created in late Fall has weathered the winter well and I have been getting much enjoyment from it. I did have to cover the plants when the temperatures dropped down into the teens for a few nights to protect the more delicate Cypress, but the combination of the yellow color from the Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest' (Lemon Cypress) along with the berries of the Gaultheria (wintergreen) was a win-win!
And Indoors!
As the spring season approaches, I am enjoying the African Violets blooming indoors and kitty is too, although I think it's all about the sunshine for her. Until we meet again, happy almost spring and I hope you get to have some quality time in the garden. "The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.”- Alfred Austin

Thank you for Visiting!
I hope you enjoyed your visit to my March garden. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and look forward to seeing what you have growing in your area. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling WoodsImage-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden

Friday, March 1, 2024

Feature Indoor Plant Profile: African Violet

This Month in the Garden: Feature Indoor Plant
Welcome to This Month in the Garden! Today we talk about African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha), one of the most common houseplants in the world known for their distinct rosette of fuzzy leaves, range of flower colors and ease of care. First discovered in 1892 in the tropical rainforests of the Usambara mountains near the border of Tanzania Africa, the first commercial varieties all with blue flowers were introduced into the market in 1927. In 1942, the first pink variety was introduced, followed by a white blooming variety, followed by the first single blooming crown cultivated in Germany. African Violet are also valued as being one of the best houseplants for purifying the air. These small, perennial plants have captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide. 

Types of African Violets:
 African Violets come in various flower forms, including single, semi-double, and double blossoms. They display an array of colors such as purple, pink, blue, and white, offering choices to suit different preferences. Leaf shapes vary in a number of forms from regular (plain) to round to ovate, scalloped, heart-shaped, and serrated to name a few and color of the foliage can range from light to dark green to silver, watermelon and deep pink depending on the variety. Sizes of African Violet range in diameter between 2 and 6 inches in width depending on the particular cultivar.

Soil Type & Potting: Proper soil is key to African Violet care. A well-draining, lightweight potting mix specifically formulated for these plants is recommended. African Violet prefer to be confined in their container, so use of a four- or six-inch pot is preferable. 

Temperature, Lighting & Watering: African Violet grow best at room temperature, between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and thrive in bright, indirect light, such as under a skylight or in a northern or eastern window, making them ideal for homes or offices with filtered sunlight. While they prefer a consistently moist environment, overwatering can lead to root rot. It's crucial to water them from the bottom or use a self-watering pot to prevent water from touching the leaves. Use of filtered or distilled water is best.

Propagation:
 Propagation is best achieved through leaf cuttings, and rooting usually takes between four and six weeks. Select a healthy, mature leaf, trim it, place the stem into rooting hormone and plant in a light potting mix. With proper care and patience, new plants will emerge, providing an opportunity to expand your collection or share with fellow plant enthusiasts.

Maintenance: While African Violets are generally low maintenance, they do benefit from occasional grooming. Regular deadheading promotes continuous blooming and keeps the plant looking tidy. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves, and periodically rotate the pot to ensure even growth. Keeping the plant's environment clean helps prevent common issues like pests and diseases. To promote healthy growth and blooms, fertilize regularly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer designed for African Violets.

Folklore: African violets are often associated with sentiments of faith, love, loyalty, devotion and commitment. They symbolize delicate beauty and are considered tokens of affection. The flowers come in various colors, each carrying its own meaning. Purple symbolizes spirituality, blue for peace and royalty and pink for innocence, while white signifies purity. Additionally, African violets are thought to bring good fortune and positive energy, making them popular as gifts to express care and appreciation. In many cultures, African Violet have been used as an amulet to promote protection and spirituality in the home.

African Violets are delightful, versatile plants that bring beauty to indoor spaces. With a bit of attention to light, water, and soil, these charming houseplants will reward you with a profusion of blooms. Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, African Violets are an excellent choice for adding color and elegance to your indoor space. 

I hope you enjoyed This Month in the Garden. Be sure to stop by on the 1st. and 15th. of each month as I continue to share gardening tips, information and horticultural adventures! 


"As Always...Happy Gardening!" 

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved. 

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up February-The Subtle Beauty of Winter

Welcome !
The 15th-16th and 19th of January brought our only two snowfalls of the winter, the first with just 2.1 inches and a dusting on the 19th, with milder temperatures predicted for the month of February. It has been a noticeably milder and rainier winter than those of the past, which this gardener does not mind a bit! But wait...Is there snow on the way? The forecasters say so! There is much interest to be seen in the winter landscape, so join me for a tour of my Long Island garden.
Juniperus 'Blue Star' and Lirope 'Variegata'
The first stop is to view this combination of Juniper 'Blue Star' and Variegated Liriope. My goal when designing is to plan for continuous interest throughout the year. This blue colored evergreen foliage of the juniper against the yellowish-green fronds of Liriope produce both contrast and varied texture for all the seasons, especially during winter. Helpful Tip: Avoid cutting the foliage of Liriope (Lilyturf) in autumn. Allow it to remain throughout the winter months for added interest and to protect the crown, then cut it back in early spring to allow for new growth. 
Helleborus 'Merlin' (Lenten Rose)
One of my favorite perennials for winter is Hellebore, or Lenten Rose. Here is Hellebore 'Merlin'. The buds are now forming in February and the colorful bracts will open within the next couple of weeks to expose pink blooms.
Helleborus 'Champion' (Lenten Rose)
Another variety of Hellebore is 'Champion' displaying its greenish-yellow buds. It will be ready to bloom in a couple of weeks, while 'Shooting Star' has been blooming since January.
Helleborus 'Shooting Star' (Lenten Rose)
Planting Tip:  Hellebores can usually be purchased in nurseries from the end of December into February and can be planted once the ground thaws (after the last freeze date). Locate in partial sun to shade such as a northern or eastern exposure or beneath the canopy of trees. 
Hydrangea Dried Blooms
Along with winter blooming plants, I look for other forms of interest this time of year. While walking around the garden on a mild winter's day, even the simplest thing such as sunlight filtering through the dried flowers of hydrangea or the dried fruit of St. John's Wort can bring beauty.
St John's Wort Dried Fruit
As a gardener, I have always made it a point to appreciate all that nature has to offer, if even on the smallest scale.
'Rhode Island Red' Dwarf Japanese Maple Winter
Bark on trees and shrubs can bring interest this time of year. The burgundy-red stems of Dwarf 'Rhode Island Red' Japanese Maple are especially pronounced this time of year. This slow growing red maple is excellent for smaller spaces, reaching a mature height and width of just 6 feet after several years.
Groundcover Sedum Wintertime
Along the pool waterfall Sedum 'Angelina' remains semi-evergreen throughout most of the winter, especially when it is mild. This low maintenance perennial is perfect for growing within the crevices of rock walls.
Front Garden with Evergreens and Heuchera
Here along the front garden border is a combination of  Dwarf Cryptomeria (back left), Osmanthus 'Goshiki' (False Holly), Dwarf Norway Spruce (front left) and Heuchera 'Caramel' (front), a perennial which maintains it's color all winter long for the most part. Helpful Tip: With freezing and thawing, the crowns of Heuchera may rise up out of the ground. If this happens, lightly push the plant back down into the soil with your foot to help protect it from cold.
Front Lawn
Circling around to the north of the front island bed is Weeping Japanese Maple with Blue Atlas Cedar in the backdrop. The twisting structure of the Japanese Maple is much more visible in wintertime when the tree is dormant.
Front Driveway Border
Along the driveway border, Skyland's Golden Oriental Spruce and Coral Bark Maple can be seen. The pinkish-red newer growth of the Coral Bark Maple is prominent in wintertime. The colder it gets, the more vibrant the bark appears.
Skyland's Oriental Spruce
Here are the interesting seed cones of Oriental Spruce close-up.
All-Season Interest
For additional all-season interest, these dwarf  'Anna's Magic Ball' Arborvitae cannot be beat. These have been part of the garden for years and are only about two feet high by wide.
Signs of Spring!
The groundhog did not see his shadow and as the legend goes, he is predicting an early spring. Even though the groundhog is only 40% correct, isn't it a nice thought? The Sedum seem to think so!
Allium 'Globemaster' Popping up Already!!
Allium 'Globemaster' and (Hyacinth too) bulbs are emerging from their winters sleep. It is way too early, but Mother Nature seems to know best.
And what a difference a day makes...
And what a difference a day makes! From spring bulbs appearing just two days ago to waking up to a winter wonderland on the 13th…nature sure does have its beauty. I guess Mother Nature has it all under control.
What's Blooming Indoors?
While it is wintertime outside, I get to focus on my indoor plants. For the month of February,  Thanksgiving Cactus are on their third round of blooms, African Violet is blooming away and Echeveria are sending up spikes of orange bell-shaped flowers. I love bringing the outside in!
Outdoor Planter
Outside, the evergreen seasonal planter that I created in December is nice and cozy up against the foundation. It is happy and healthy and will remain along the entry where I can enjoy it every time I go outdoors or happen to peak out!
Thanks for Visiting!
I hope you enjoyed your visit to my February garden. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and look forward to seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday FotosNature Notes at Rambling WoodsImage-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden

Thursday, February 1, 2024

This Month in the Garden: Winter Gardening: Protecting Your Outdoor Plants from the Cold


Over the last couple of years, temperature extremes during the winter months have taken a toll on our outdoor gardens. From weeks of mild temperatures in the 40's and 50's to cold blasts plummeting temperatures into the teens and even single digits, these extremes pose a risk to plants, and safeguarding them from the harsh cold becomes crucial for maintaining their health. Some broad-leaved evergreens such as Rhododendron will even tell you when temperatures are below 20 degrees. Their leaves will curl in severe cold, a process known as thermonasty, which helps to reduce surface area and conserve moisture. There is a way you can be proactive. Here are some effective strategies to help you protect your green companions during the chilly months.

Choose Cold-Resistant Plants: When purchasing plants, be sure to choose those which can withstand temperatures which are one to two zones colder than your location. Research and select species that thrive in your specific region, as they are more likely to withstand winter conditions. For sensitive plants or those in containers, consider bringing them indoors during extreme cold spells. A garage or enclosed porch can provide a temporary shelter until milder weather returns. For certain landscape plants which are broad-leaved, such as Rhododendron, Azalea, Osmanthus (False Holly), Euonymus, Aucuba, Cherry, Skip and Mountain Laurel, Leucothoe, Boxwood and Holly, the use of an anti-desiccant before winter sets in is recommended. 


Apply Mulching: A layer of organic mulch around the base of your plants will insulate the soil and regulate temperature. This acts as a protective barrier, preventing extreme temperature fluctuations that can be harmful to plant roots. Ideally, the best time to mulch is during late spring to early summer, or early fall. Be sure to mulch way before any sign of frost, as applying at the incorrect time can have the opposite effect and cause harm.


Proper Watering: Adjust your watering routine as winter approaches. Ensure that the soil is adequately hydrated before the first frost, as moist soil retains heat better than dry soil. However, be cautious not to overwater, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. With your outdoor containers, give them a good watering before you know there is going to be a severe temperature drop. This will help them to hydrate before the deep freeze.


Watch for Frost Heaving:
 
In freezing temperatures soil around your plants may be subject to frost heaving. This is when ice forms underneath the soil and expands upwards from the ground causing plants such as perennials to push upwards exposing the crown. Heuchera (Coral Bells) and Liriope are especially prone to this type of damage. As a preventive measure apply mulch finishing to your garden beds. To remedy, once the ground thaws, slightly tap the soil back down, and brush the mulch back around the exposed crown of the plant. During the time of frost heaving, avoid stepping into garden beds, as this can cause the soil to become too compact. Compacting the soil too much can have a negative effect on future soil drainage. 


Cover Plants: Stay informed about upcoming weather conditions. Cover plants when extreme temperature drops are predicted. Use protective covers, such as burlap or frost cloth, to shield your plants from frost and freezing winds. Make sure the covers are secured tightly to prevent heat loss, especially during the coldest nights. If you have potted plants, consider moving them closer to the house or clustering them together. This provides additional warmth and protection against the cold. Elevate containers to prevent them from sitting directly on cold surfaces and use frost covering until the freezing temperatures subside. Once the threat of plummeting temperatures has passed, you can uncover the plant and keep the cover nearby. For larger plantings, the use of temporary windbreaks such as wooden or fabric barriers can be used to shield plants from strong offshore winter winds.


Tips on Pruning & Fertilization: As a preventive measure, any dead or damaged branches should be pruned off trees and shrubs before winter sets in. Pruning encourages healthy growth and minimizes the risk of disease. However, avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as it may stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost. Adjust your fertilization routine in late fall to promote plant hardiness. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they can encourage tender growth susceptible to frost damage.


The winter months can be quite unpredictable and tend to be more drastic during the months of January, February, and even through March when the seasons are changing. By taking these proactive measures, you can ensure the health and vitality of your outdoor plants. Remember that each plant is unique, so tailor your approach based on their specific needs and the climate of your region.

I hope you enjoyed This Month in the Garden. Be sure to stop by on the 1st. and 15th. of each month as I continue to share gardening tips, information and horticultural adventures! 


"As Always...Happy Gardening!" 

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved.