What plants should you use in flower gardens? I offer some examples in these stories. This information on flower garden plants and related topics was published in September-November, 2008. Included is an article on hibiscus, one of the showiest shrubs known to flower gardens. Return to the index to access resources from prior years.
9/01/08 - Neem Oil
Introduction to Neem oil, a product worth keeping in your organic pesticide arsenal. I recommend experimenting with Neem oil to see what does and doesn't work for you; I relate the results of my own experiments here.
9/03/08 - Hibiscus Flowers
Hardy hibiscus flowers typically bloom in late July or early August in northern climes. This feature makes them valuable specimen plants in flower gardens where you're striving for spring-to-fall color, since fewer flowering shrubs bloom at this time than at other times of the year.
9/16/08 - Beautyberry
Beautyberry is a fine addition to flower gardens, even though its blossoms are relatively insignificant. This shrub's chief selling point is its beautiful berries, which add interest to the fall landscape.
9/29/08 - Sweet Autumn Clematis
Like beautyberry, sweet autumn clematis is, as its name suggests, an autumn standout. But unlike beautyberry, this vine is very much grown for its flowers.
10/12/08 - Fothergilla
Take your pick with fothergilla, when it comes to the debate between the camp that prefers its spring blossoms and the camp that likes its fall foliage better. Either way, there's a place for fothergilla in your flower garden.
10/20/08 - Barberry
Barberry is another story. Yes, its red berries add color to the autumn and winter landscapes; but barberry is invasive.
10/25/08 - Koreanspice Viburnum
Koreanspice viburnum, like fothergilla, does double duty in the flower garden.
11/04/08 - Identify a Wildflower
View my pictures of wildflowers for aid in your identification efforts. Good place for novice wildflower enthusiasts to start.
11/07/08 - When to Plant Trees
What are the best times to plant trees? It can be confusing for beginners. This article seeks to aid beginners by teaching the "when" through the "why."
11/20/08 - Hinoki Cypress
Slender Hinoki cypress trees are semi-dwarf Hinoki cypresses, being more compact than the species trees but not as short as 'Nana Gracilis,' the true dwarf.
