Landscaping: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
10 Cat Repellents: How to Keep
I'm often asked how to keep cats away from yards. The answer lies in cat repellents, whether by wire, water, or just plain understanding how feline pests think.
I'm often asked how to keep cats away from yards. The answer lies in cat repellents, whether by wire, water, or just plain understanding how feline pests think.
Pictures of Poison Ivy
View my pictures of poison ivy and similar vines for identification. My photos show the plants at different stages of development in the course of the year.
View my pictures of poison ivy and similar vines for identification. My photos show the plants at different stages of development in the course of the year.
How to Control Dandelions
My pictures of dandelions will help you identify them. Then use my tips for their manual removal or killing them with herbicides.
My pictures of dandelions will help you identify them. Then use my tips for their manual removal or killing them with herbicides.
Uses for Vinegar
The organic gardener sometimes uses vinegar as a natural weed killer. It's non-selective, so be careful not to spray or pour it on your good plants.
The organic gardener sometimes uses vinegar as a natural weed killer. It's non-selective, so be careful not to spray or pour it on your good plants.
Attracting Hummingbirds
Grow the top 10 flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard. Besides attracting the winged jewels, these plants will excite the envy of other gardeners.
Grow the top 10 flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard. Besides attracting the winged jewels, these plants will excite the envy of other gardeners.
How to Kill Crabgrass
What's the best way of killing crabgrass? Using preemergent herbicide is one way to get rid of this weed, but proper ID must come first, so I provide pictures.
What's the best way of killing crabgrass? Using preemergent herbicide is one way to get rid of this weed, but proper ID must come first, so I provide pictures.
Varieties of Azaleas and Rhodo
Read this introduction to learn how to care for azalea and rhododendron plants. I give tips on pruning and planting these popular flowering shrubs.
Read this introduction to learn how to care for azalea and rhododendron plants. I give tips on pruning and planting these popular flowering shrubs.
What Does Poison Ivy Look Like?
What does poison ivy look like? Pictures do the best job of answering the question, thus this photo gallery. Use it for positive identification.
What does poison ivy look like? Pictures do the best job of answering the question, thus this photo gallery. Use it for positive identification.
Long-Blooming Perennials
Long-blooming perennials give continuous garden color, with just a little deadheading, dividing, etc. on your part. Discover some flowers that bloom all summer.
Long-blooming perennials give continuous garden color, with just a little deadheading, dividing, etc. on your part. Discover some flowers that bloom all summer.
What the Young Leaves of Poison Ivy Look Like
See my picture of poison ivy leaves to learn what they look like when young. Their appearance in spring is different from what it is in summer or fall.
See my picture of poison ivy leaves to learn what they look like when young. Their appearance in spring is different from what it is in summer or fall.
Columbine Flowers
Columbine flowers come in numerous colors. Of even greater value than their bold colors is the exquisite shape of the blooms, as shown in my picture.
Columbine flowers come in numerous colors. Of even greater value than their bold colors is the exquisite shape of the blooms, as shown in my picture.
Rose of Sharon
Rose of sharon bush is a deciduous flowering shrub, sometimes thought of as a small tree. Learn about pruning it and other growing tips here.
Rose of sharon bush is a deciduous flowering shrub, sometimes thought of as a small tree. Learn about pruning it and other growing tips here.
Planting Zones
The definition of planting zones refers to USDA hardiness maps, to which I link. I tell you how to use them but explain why you needn't follow them slavishly.
The definition of planting zones refers to USDA hardiness maps, to which I link. I tell you how to use them but explain why you needn't follow them slavishly.
Vole Control
You've heard of mole control, but not vole control? Why is that? Well, the latter gets little recognition.
You've heard of mole control, but not vole control? Why is that? Well, the latter gets little recognition.
Gerbera Daisy Flowers
Taxonomy of Gerbera Daisy Flowers: Plant taxonomy classifies gerbera daisy flowers as Gerbera jamesonii
Taxonomy of Gerbera Daisy Flowers: Plant taxonomy classifies gerbera daisy flowers as Gerbera jamesonii
Poison Sumac Pictures
Consult these poison sumac pictures for identification purposes. My photos include closeups showing what the leaves, etc. of these plants look like.
Consult these poison sumac pictures for identification purposes. My photos include closeups showing what the leaves, etc. of these plants look like.
Tree Stump Removal
Removing tree stumps is possible without the aid of stump grinders. You can do it manually with mattocks or by applying nitrogen and waiting, which is cheaper.
Removing tree stumps is possible without the aid of stump grinders. You can do it manually with mattocks or by applying nitrogen and waiting, which is cheaper.
Impatiens Flowers
Impatiens flowers are valued for the variety and vibrancy of their colors and their shade tolerance. The 'Super Elfin' series is one of the most popular.
Impatiens flowers are valued for the variety and vibrancy of their colors and their shade tolerance. The 'Super Elfin' series is one of the most popular.
Install French Drains
Installing French drains is an option for providing yard drainage on land where there is excess water. Learn how to make one in this piece geared to DIYers.
Installing French drains is an option for providing yard drainage on land where there is excess water. Learn how to make one in this piece geared to DIYers.
Build a Backyard Waterfall
A simple and cheap way to build outdoor waterfalls is to erect cascading stone spillways that hang right over your pond. I show you how in this tutorial.
A simple and cheap way to build outdoor waterfalls is to erect cascading stone spillways that hang right over your pond. I show you how in this tutorial.
Fast Growing Shrubs
Fast growing shrubs are great for homeowners needing quick privacy hedges. I list several bushes for those who need privacy in a hurry, linking to plant info.
Fast growing shrubs are great for homeowners needing quick privacy hedges. I list several bushes for those who need privacy in a hurry, linking to plant info.
Young Leaflet Picture
Poison ivy leaflets are sometimes notched, a feature that may be especially prominent in young leaves. Variations increase the difficulty in identification.
Poison ivy leaflets are sometimes notched, a feature that may be especially prominent in young leaves. Variations increase the difficulty in identification.
Picture of Poison Ivy Leaf
View my picture of a poison ivy leaf to see how the plant looks in summer. In this example, it's a vine growing on a stone wall.
View my picture of a poison ivy leaf to see how the plant looks in summer. In this example, it's a vine growing on a stone wall.
Identifying Rhus Radicans
Need tips on how to get rid of poison ivy? Ortho Brush-B-Gon is one effective herbicide, but you can also get rid of these rash-causing plants using organic methods.
Need tips on how to get rid of poison ivy? Ortho Brush-B-Gon is one effective herbicide, but you can also get rid of these rash-causing plants using organic methods.
Groundhog Damage in Your Yard
Learn about pest control for groundhog or woodchuck pests in gardens. Woodchucks (or ground hogs) are pests that emerge from a burrow to eat vegetables.
Learn about pest control for groundhog or woodchuck pests in gardens. Woodchucks (or ground hogs) are pests that emerge from a burrow to eat vegetables.
Shrubs That Grow in Shade
Shrubs that grow in shade are a boon to folks who toil to find bushes to fill shady voids in the landscape. This top 10 list is designed with variety in mind.
Shrubs that grow in shade are a boon to folks who toil to find bushes to fill shady voids in the landscape. This top 10 list is designed with variety in mind.
Redtwig Dogwoods
Red twig dogwood shrubs are so named for the color of their bark in winter. But these stunning bushes offer much more than just colorful winter bark.
Red twig dogwood shrubs are so named for the color of their bark in winter. But these stunning bushes offer much more than just colorful winter bark.
Leaves of Young Poison Ivy Plants
Young poison ivy plants start out with reddish leaves, as my picture shows. Don't be fooled by this spring look: they lose that color later.
Young poison ivy plants start out with reddish leaves, as my picture shows. Don't be fooled by this spring look: they lose that color later.
Top 10 List of Weeping Trees
Of the weeping trees, some Japanese cherry trees are among the most spectacular. Such specimens give your landscaping a drooping habit and lovely blossoms.
Of the weeping trees, some Japanese cherry trees are among the most spectacular. Such specimens give your landscaping a drooping habit and lovely blossoms.
Weed Pictures
My weed pictures include photos of plants you probably know, but not by name. Here's some help in identifying common types of weeds.
My weed pictures include photos of plants you probably know, but not by name. Here's some help in identifying common types of weeds.
Dog Repellents
A problem with dog repellents sprinkled on the soil is the need to reapply after rain. On the upside, 2 products in this class lie right on the kitchen shelf.
A problem with dog repellents sprinkled on the soil is the need to reapply after rain. On the upside, 2 products in this class lie right on the kitchen shelf.
How to Transplant Trees and Sh
I present 5 easy steps in teaching you how to transplant trees and shrubs. Learn how to dig the holes and move the plants; also learn about care after installation.
I present 5 easy steps in teaching you how to transplant trees and shrubs. Learn how to dig the holes and move the plants; also learn about care after installation.
Pictures of the Flower Buds
This picture is of poison ivy flower buds. Yes, even such troublesome, rash-inducing menaces as this can bloom (not all that blossoms is beautiful).
This picture is of poison ivy flower buds. Yes, even such troublesome, rash-inducing menaces as this can bloom (not all that blossoms is beautiful).
'Emerald Green' Arborvitae Tre
'Emerald Green' arborvitae trees are evergreens. Technically shrubs, they have a foliage similar to Leyland cypress and are sometimes used as privacy screens or in other border plantings.
'Emerald Green' arborvitae trees are evergreens. Technically shrubs, they have a foliage similar to Leyland cypress and are sometimes used as privacy screens or in other border plantings.
Poison Ivy Flowers
As this picture shows, poison ivy flowers are rather unremarkable. But knowing what they look like will help you identify this weed.
As this picture shows, poison ivy flowers are rather unremarkable. But knowing what they look like will help you identify this weed.
Full Sun Plants
Full-sun plants are often perfect for rock gardens, for example. Learn about some types of drought-tolerant perennials before you buy a plant for that hot spot.
Full-sun plants are often perfect for rock gardens, for example. Learn about some types of drought-tolerant perennials before you buy a plant for that hot spot.
Pictures of Poison Ivy - Color Changes
My picture of an orangy poison ivy leaf captures the weed's look in spring. The color can morph from red to orange to green.
My picture of an orangy poison ivy leaf captures the weed's look in spring. The color can morph from red to orange to green.
Forsythia Bushes - Plants That
Border forsythia bushes (often misspelled 'forcynthia') are shrubs renowned for ushering in spring. Learn how to care for these plants (including pruning) here.
Border forsythia bushes (often misspelled 'forcynthia') are shrubs renowned for ushering in spring. Learn how to care for these plants (including pruning) here.
Tips for Growing Green Lawns
Do you know the proper mowing height for cutting lawns, or what to do with grass clippings and why? Also learn the advantage in using mulching mowers.
Do you know the proper mowing height for cutting lawns, or what to do with grass clippings and why? Also learn the advantage in using mulching mowers.
Spring Lawn Care
If you neglect spring lawn care, you'll pay for it the rest of the year. But while you shouldn't neglect it, spring lawn care doesn't require nearly as much time as mowing does in summer.
If you neglect spring lawn care, you'll pay for it the rest of the year. But while you shouldn't neglect it, spring lawn care doesn't require nearly as much time as mowing does in summer.
Creeping Phlox Plants
Creeping phlox plants (P. subulata) do best in full sun. A slope with well-drained soil, rich in humus, can be covered with these plants as a groundcover to prevent erosion.
Creeping phlox plants (P. subulata) do best in full sun. A slope with well-drained soil, rich in humus, can be covered with these plants as a groundcover to prevent erosion.
Top 10 List of Shade Plants
My top 10 list of shade plants includes flowering dogwood trees, a wild bird favorite. My list is representative of the major categories of landscaping plants.
My top 10 list of shade plants includes flowering dogwood trees, a wild bird favorite. My list is representative of the major categories of landscaping plants.
Hedge Plants
Hedge plants serve the practical function of giving a property security and are also decorative. Here I discuss some of the best shrubs to use for hedges.
Hedge plants serve the practical function of giving a property security and are also decorative. Here I discuss some of the best shrubs to use for hedges.
10 Ideas for Landscaping Prope
In landscaping your property line, are you hoping to minimize maintenance, maximize privacy or enhance the beauty of your yard? I help you with all 3 here.
In landscaping your property line, are you hoping to minimize maintenance, maximize privacy or enhance the beauty of your yard? I help you with all 3 here.
Foxglove Plants
Foxglove flowers will thrive in shade and tolerate dry soil but prefer moderate moisture. Digitalis purpurea plants are poisonous but are also used medicinally.
Foxglove flowers will thrive in shade and tolerate dry soil but prefer moderate moisture. Digitalis purpurea plants are poisonous but are also used medicinally.
Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding hearts are perennial flowers and favorites in shade gardens. Give these plants of romance liberal doses of water after flowering to extend the life of their attractive but heat-sensitive foliage.
Bleeding hearts are perennial flowers and favorites in shade gardens. Give these plants of romance liberal doses of water after flowering to extend the life of their attractive but heat-sensitive foliage.
Pictures of Flowering Shrubs
Pictures of flowering shrubs can give you ideas for your own landscaping. Browse my shrub pictures to view photos of some of the finest blooming bushes of spring and summer.
Pictures of flowering shrubs can give you ideas for your own landscaping. Browse my shrub pictures to view photos of some of the finest blooming bushes of spring and summer.
Virginia Creeper
Learn about killing Virginia creeper here if you don't want it on your land. Also discover the pros and cons of the vine here, including whether it's poisonous.
Learn about killing Virginia creeper here if you don't want it on your land. Also discover the pros and cons of the vine here, including whether it's poisonous.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Ripened Berries
My image shows the white berries of poison ivy, their color when they ripen. As this picture shows, the berries come in bunches.
My image shows the white berries of poison ivy, their color when they ripen. As this picture shows, the berries come in bunches.
How to Build Rock Gardens
This tutorial illustrates how to build rock gardens. The look of rock gardens is enhanced if attention is paid to color choices (both for the stones and for the plants).
This tutorial illustrates how to build rock gardens. The look of rock gardens is enhanced if attention is paid to color choices (both for the stones and for the plants).
Pictures of Poison Ivy - the Aerial Roots
Have you wondered what those hairy vines are climbing up trees? That's poison ivy, the 'hairs' being the vines' aerial roots.
Have you wondered what those hairy vines are climbing up trees? That's poison ivy, the 'hairs' being the vines' aerial roots.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Leaves of Three, Let It Be
Heard the well-known rhyme about poison ivy, 'Leaves of three, let it be?' This picture provides visual verification, showing the plant with its 3 leaflets.
Heard the well-known rhyme about poison ivy, 'Leaves of three, let it be?' This picture provides visual verification, showing the plant with its 3 leaflets.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Picture of Fall Foliage
Picture of poison ivy with its fall foliage. The leaves turn orange, yellow or red in fall.
Picture of poison ivy with its fall foliage. The leaves turn orange, yellow or red in fall.
Lilac Bushes
Common lilac bushes bloom in late spring, while forsythias bloom earlier. Plant both to extend the period of spring color in your yard.
Common lilac bushes bloom in late spring, while forsythias bloom earlier. Plant both to extend the period of spring color in your yard.
Installing Landscape Fabrics
Learn how to install landscape fabrics, a high-tech solution for weed control. Weed barriers suppress plant pests without suffocating everything under them.
Learn how to install landscape fabrics, a high-tech solution for weed control. Weed barriers suppress plant pests without suffocating everything under them.
Planting Flower Beds
Practice layering when planting flower beds, plus preventative weed control. These are just 2 tips I offer here, as we go from back to front row of a sample bed.
Practice layering when planting flower beds, plus preventative weed control. These are just 2 tips I offer here, as we go from back to front row of a sample bed.
Japanese Maple Trees
In my intro to red Japanese maple trees, I discuss Bloodgood and Crimson Queen, plus one that isn't a red-leaf type. Learn about their fall foliage colors.
In my intro to red Japanese maple trees, I discuss Bloodgood and Crimson Queen, plus one that isn't a red-leaf type. Learn about their fall foliage colors.
Flowering Ground Covers
Flowering ground covers combine beauty and functionality, giving floral color while fighting weeds and erosion. These pictures help you with selection.
Flowering ground covers combine beauty and functionality, giving floral color while fighting weeds and erosion. These pictures help you with selection.
Elephant Ear Plants
Elephant ear plants are tropical but can be overwintered in cold climates in containers. Keep your elephant ear plants in a cool, but not freezing basement or garage.
Elephant ear plants are tropical but can be overwintered in cold climates in containers. Keep your elephant ear plants in a cool, but not freezing basement or garage.
Seeding Lawns
Using seed for starting new lawns is cheaper than using sod. Learn the steps required for properly seeding lawns.
Using seed for starting new lawns is cheaper than using sod. Learn the steps required for properly seeding lawns.
Lantana Plants
Lantana plants are a tropical shrub and a symbol of Florida landscaping, their salt-tolerance making them a favorite flower in seashore communities.
Lantana plants are a tropical shrub and a symbol of Florida landscaping, their salt-tolerance making them a favorite flower in seashore communities.
How to Kill Grass
Organic gardeners wonder how to kill grass and eliminate lawns without using herbicides. There's a natural way to get rid of it before opening up planting beds.
Organic gardeners wonder how to kill grass and eliminate lawns without using herbicides. There's a natural way to get rid of it before opening up planting beds.
"Stella de Oro Daylily" or "St
Individual Stella de Oro daylily flowers last only a day. Why is the plant so popular, then, with those seeking summer-long color? Find out here.
Individual Stella de Oro daylily flowers last only a day. Why is the plant so popular, then, with those seeking summer-long color? Find out here.
Climbing Hydrangeas
Climbing hydrangeas solve a problem for people with shady areas to plant, being shade-tolerant vines. But they'll flower better if they receive some sunlight.
Climbing hydrangeas solve a problem for people with shady areas to plant, being shade-tolerant vines. But they'll flower better if they receive some sunlight.
Pictures of Poison Ivy Look-Alikes
Poison ivy weeds have many look-alikes. This picture of Virginia creeper will help distinguish the two and help you with identification.
Poison ivy weeds have many look-alikes. This picture of Virginia creeper will help distinguish the two and help you with identification.
Simple Landscaping Ideas
Need some simple landscaping ideas? From designing front, back and side yards to how to start a garden, consult my tips to help with your yard makeover.
Need some simple landscaping ideas? From designing front, back and side yards to how to start a garden, consult my tips to help with your yard makeover.
Fertilizing Lawns
Tips are provided in this resource for fertilizing lawns. I also give you a care schedule you can follow for spring, summer and fall.
Tips are provided in this resource for fertilizing lawns. I also give you a care schedule you can follow for spring, summer and fall.
Building Retaining Walls
This tutorial deals with building stone retaining walls 3 feet in height or less. When you build without mortar you have limitations but also some benefits.
This tutorial deals with building stone retaining walls 3 feet in height or less. When you build without mortar you have limitations but also some benefits.
Burning Bush Shrubs: Illegal A
Learn about burning bush shrubs, those popular but invasive plants. Colorful shrubs with spectacular fall foliage, the plants are classified as illegal aliens.
Learn about burning bush shrubs, those popular but invasive plants. Colorful shrubs with spectacular fall foliage, the plants are classified as illegal aliens.
Front-Yard Landscaping
Front-yard landscaping ideas suited to suburbia may not work in rural areas, and vice-versa. But these basic design ideas will point you in the right direction.
Front-yard landscaping ideas suited to suburbia may not work in rural areas, and vice-versa. But these basic design ideas will point you in the right direction.
Pictures of Poison Ivy - Autumn Foliage
My picture reveals the autumn foliage of poison ivy plants. Their leaves' color ranges from orange to yellow to red.
My picture reveals the autumn foliage of poison ivy plants. Their leaves' color ranges from orange to yellow to red.
How to Get Rid of Poison Oak P
How do you get rid of poison oak plants? Although you can kill them with the herbicides described here, eradication can also be accomplished by manual removal.
How do you get rid of poison oak plants? Although you can kill them with the herbicides described here, eradication can also be accomplished by manual removal.
Living Privacy Fences
Options for privacy fences are divided into building hardscape structures vs. using shrubs in hedges as living screens. I list the pros and cons of each here.
Options for privacy fences are divided into building hardscape structures vs. using shrubs in hedges as living screens. I list the pros and cons of each here.
English Boxwood Shrubs
Plant Taxonomy of English Boxwood Shrubs: Plant taxonomy classifies English boxwoods as Buxus sempervirens
Plant Taxonomy of English Boxwood Shrubs: Plant taxonomy classifies English boxwoods as Buxus sempervirens
Vine Plants Similar to Poison Ivy: Virginia Creeper
Virginia creeper is among the vine plants similar to poison ivy. Other vines mistaken for it include bittersweet.
Virginia creeper is among the vine plants similar to poison ivy. Other vines mistaken for it include bittersweet.
Pictures of Flowering Trees
Why view these pictures of flowering trees? Not only will they give you ideas, but I also supplement the pics with links to resources on growing them.
Why view these pictures of flowering trees? Not only will they give you ideas, but I also supplement the pics with links to resources on growing them.
Backyard Landscaping Designs
Before you contemplate specific backyard landscaping designs, you have to ask yourself some basic questions.
Before you contemplate specific backyard landscaping designs, you have to ask yourself some basic questions.
Privet Hedges
Privet hedges (Ligustrum shrubs) are traditional favorites, being amenable to pruning. But these bushes are invasive plants in North America.
Privet hedges (Ligustrum shrubs) are traditional favorites, being amenable to pruning. But these bushes are invasive plants in North America.
English Ivy
I discuss growing English ivy plants (picture) as a groundcover here. But my tips come with a warning: they have fallen out of favor due to their invasiveness.
I discuss growing English ivy plants (picture) as a groundcover here. But my tips come with a warning: they have fallen out of favor due to their invasiveness.
Laying Sod
Laying sod to start new lawns begins with soil preparation. Laying sod to start new lawns has the advantage over seeding of being quicker.
Laying sod to start new lawns begins with soil preparation. Laying sod to start new lawns has the advantage over seeding of being quicker.
Dwarf Trees
Dwarf trees (evergreen and deciduous) are popular in small yard design. You can plant them with the knowledge that they won't quickly spike out of control.
Dwarf trees (evergreen and deciduous) are popular in small yard design. You can plant them with the knowledge that they won't quickly spike out of control.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- "Beware of Vine!"
My picture displays poison ivy climbing a clapboard-sided building. The vine's aerial roots allow it to climb structures.
My picture displays poison ivy climbing a clapboard-sided building. The vine's aerial roots allow it to climb structures.
Types of Maple Trees: Best Var
Read this intro, with pictures, to discover some common types of maple trees. I focus on the best varieties for fall color, including red ones.
Read this intro, with pictures, to discover some common types of maple trees. I focus on the best varieties for fall color, including red ones.
Growing Zones
Growing zones are not meant to be restrictive; they serve, rather, as guides. The USDA provides these zone maps, broken down by region.
Growing zones are not meant to be restrictive; they serve, rather, as guides. The USDA provides these zone maps, broken down by region.
Hosta Plants
Hosta plants do bloom but are grown for their foliage. Leaf color, as shown in my pictures, is quite varied. Learn about some varieties and how to care for them.
Hosta plants do bloom but are grown for their foliage. Leaf color, as shown in my pictures, is quite varied. Learn about some varieties and how to care for them.
Hens and Chickens
Hens and chicks plants are surprisingly hardy perennials, for succulents, and exhibit drought-tolerance. Peruse my growing tips (with picture) to learn more.
Hens and chicks plants are surprisingly hardy perennials, for succulents, and exhibit drought-tolerance. Peruse my growing tips (with picture) to learn more.
Flower Pictures
The lists of flowers (with pictures) here are organized by color. Browse these galleries to gain ideas for creating colorful landscape designs.
The lists of flowers (with pictures) here are organized by color. Browse these galleries to gain ideas for creating colorful landscape designs.
Annual Plants
What is an annual? In distinguishing between annual plants and perennials, it's all a matter of the life cycle; I explain the difference here.
What is an annual? In distinguishing between annual plants and perennials, it's all a matter of the life cycle; I explain the difference here.
Bee Balm
Plant Taxonomy of Red Bee Balm: Plant taxonomy classifies the bee balm plants (or "beebalm") with which
Plant Taxonomy of Red Bee Balm: Plant taxonomy classifies the bee balm plants (or "beebalm") with which
Hibiscus Flowers
Hardy hibiscus plants bear large flowers that provide Northerners with an option for a perennial tropical feel. The blooms are much bigger than on another hibiscus, rose of sharon.
Hardy hibiscus plants bear large flowers that provide Northerners with an option for a perennial tropical feel. The blooms are much bigger than on another hibiscus, rose of sharon.
Pictures of Vines Mistaken for Poison Ivy
My picture shows the flower buds of Virginia creeper. Many people mistake this vine for poison ivy.
My picture shows the flower buds of Virginia creeper. Many people mistake this vine for poison ivy.
Hinoki Cypress
Slender Hinoki cypress trees are semi-dwarfs, being more compact than the species trees but not as short as 'Nana Gracilis,' the true dwarf.
Slender Hinoki cypress trees are semi-dwarfs, being more compact than the species trees but not as short as 'Nana Gracilis,' the true dwarf.
Thompson's Water Seal
Thompson's Water Seal is one of the deck sealers used to protect against rot. Learn how to use this sealant to guard against damage to your decking.
Thompson's Water Seal is one of the deck sealers used to protect against rot. Learn how to use this sealant to guard against damage to your decking.
Emerald 'N' Gold Euonymus
Emerald and Gold euonymus shrubs are low-mounding, evergreen bushes. The plants have variegated leaves on stems that stick straight up.
Emerald and Gold euonymus shrubs are low-mounding, evergreen bushes. The plants have variegated leaves on stems that stick straight up.
Flagstone Patios
Laying flagstone patios in sand is not difficult, although the stone itself can be heavy. Laying a flagstone patio is like building a puzzle.
Laying flagstone patios in sand is not difficult, although the stone itself can be heavy. Laying a flagstone patio is like building a puzzle.
Mountain Laurel Shrubs
My description of mountain laurel shrubs is supplemented by pictures. I distinguish between these shrubs and the bay laurel trees made famous by the Greeks.
My description of mountain laurel shrubs is supplemented by pictures. I distinguish between these shrubs and the bay laurel trees made famous by the Greeks.
Mock Orange
Mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius) is a deciduous flowering shrub. This article discusses growing both P. coronarius and Minnesota Snowflake plants.
Mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius) is a deciduous flowering shrub. This article discusses growing both P. coronarius and Minnesota Snowflake plants.
Ornamental Grasses
Use my pictures of ornamental grasses and my descriptions to learn more about one of the best examples of low-maintenance plants (deer and drought resistant).
Use my pictures of ornamental grasses and my descriptions to learn more about one of the best examples of low-maintenance plants (deer and drought resistant).
Blue Fescue Grass
Blue fescue grass (Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue') is drought-tolerant. This colorful ornamental grass is grown in zones 4-8. Learn how to grow it here.
Blue fescue grass (Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue') is drought-tolerant. This colorful ornamental grass is grown in zones 4-8. Learn how to grow it here.
Purple Ice Plant
Purple ice plant (Delosperma), despite its South African origins, is a hardy flower. Delosperma cooperi is one of the most popular flowers from this group and is used as a ground cover.
Purple ice plant (Delosperma), despite its South African origins, is a hardy flower. Delosperma cooperi is one of the most popular flowers from this group and is used as a ground cover.
Canadian Hemlock Trees
Eastern or 'Canadian' hemlock trees are long-lived evergreens. Many cultivars have been developed for landscape usage, including more compact ones useful in privacy hedges.
Eastern or 'Canadian' hemlock trees are long-lived evergreens. Many cultivars have been developed for landscape usage, including more compact ones useful in privacy hedges.
Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees
Dwarf Alberta spruce trees will eventually reach 6' tall but only over a long period of time. The green needles have a tight, densely-packed growth habit.
Dwarf Alberta spruce trees will eventually reach 6' tall but only over a long period of time. The green needles have a tight, densely-packed growth habit.
Tips for Removing Poison Ivy S
Removing poison ivy from your yard is probably easier than remembering to avoid those 'leaflets 3.' Read my tips on how to remove this weed to do the job safely.
Removing poison ivy from your yard is probably easier than remembering to avoid those 'leaflets 3.' Read my tips on how to remove this weed to do the job safely.
Reel Lawn Mowers
In my reel mowers review I assess them as alternatives to rotary mowers. Quiet, safe, clean, maintenance-free and cheap, they do still have drawbacks.
In my reel mowers review I assess them as alternatives to rotary mowers. Quiet, safe, clean, maintenance-free and cheap, they do still have drawbacks.
Landscape Design Photos
If you need landscape design photos to inspire ideas for the yard, study these pictures showing some basic principles and learn about the concepts the pros use.
If you need landscape design photos to inspire ideas for the yard, study these pictures showing some basic principles and learn about the concepts the pros use.
MTD Yard Machine Lawn Mowers
As I explain in my review, the MTD Yard Machine lawn mower with a Briggs & Stratton engine and high wheels in the rear facilitates mowing slopes or bumpy areas.
As I explain in my review, the MTD Yard Machine lawn mower with a Briggs & Stratton engine and high wheels in the rear facilitates mowing slopes or bumpy areas.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- Pinnately Compound Leaves
"Pinnately compound" is part of botanical lingo for identifying plants by their leaf shapes. "Pinnate"
"Pinnately compound" is part of botanical lingo for identifying plants by their leaf shapes. "Pinnate"
Mole vs. Vole
Garden pests include the mole and the vole, those subterranean, mouse-like garden pests. But what's the difference between a mole and a vole?
Garden pests include the mole and the vole, those subterranean, mouse-like garden pests. But what's the difference between a mole and a vole?
Floating Decks
It's easy for DIYers to build floating decks, because they are not attached to a building. This tutorial (includes pictures of the small structure constructed) shows you how it's done.
It's easy for DIYers to build floating decks, because they are not attached to a building. This tutorial (includes pictures of the small structure constructed) shows you how it's done.
Japanese Yews and English Yew
English yew bushes are widely used for foundation plants or in hedges, while a number of cultivars of Japanese yews exist and can serve similar functions.
English yew bushes are widely used for foundation plants or in hedges, while a number of cultivars of Japanese yews exist and can serve similar functions.
Ajuga or "Bugleweed"
Plant Taxonomy of Bugleweed: Taxonomy classifies bugleweed (sometimes misspelled "bugle weed") or "bugle"
Plant Taxonomy of Bugleweed: Taxonomy classifies bugleweed (sometimes misspelled "bugle weed") or "bugle"
Landscaping With Dogs
Landscaping with dogs means compromise. You must alter plans you'd otherwise have for a yard, e.g., avoiding extensive lawns that will only be stained by urine.
Landscaping with dogs means compromise. You must alter plans you'd otherwise have for a yard, e.g., avoiding extensive lawns that will only be stained by urine.
Brick Patios
Learn how to build a brick patio the easy way. These instructions are designed for beginners, so the sample project doesn't involve cutting a single brick!
Learn how to build a brick patio the easy way. These instructions are designed for beginners, so the sample project doesn't involve cutting a single brick!
Liriope Grass
Liriope spicata, AKA lilyturf or border grass, is a deer-resistant ornamental grass. This plant can, indeed, be used as a border grass in areas of dry shade.
Liriope spicata, AKA lilyturf or border grass, is a deer-resistant ornamental grass. This plant can, indeed, be used as a border grass in areas of dry shade.
Yellow Alyssum Flowers: Aurini
Yellow alyssum flowers are perennial plants suitable for rock gardens. Aurinia saxatilis likes sun and tolerates drought.
Yellow alyssum flowers are perennial plants suitable for rock gardens. Aurinia saxatilis likes sun and tolerates drought.
English Lavender Plants
English lavender plants (Lavandula angustifolia) are perennial herbs with aromatic blooms. Many harvest and dry them, but they also look great in landscaping.
English lavender plants (Lavandula angustifolia) are perennial herbs with aromatic blooms. Many harvest and dry them, but they also look great in landscaping.
Eradication of Japanese Knotwe
Find out the habitats where Japanese knotweed plants (picture) thrive. Understanding this helps you develop eradication strategies and get rid of this invasive.
Find out the habitats where Japanese knotweed plants (picture) thrive. Understanding this helps you develop eradication strategies and get rid of this invasive.
Landscape Design Forum
Some of my favorite threads from the Landscape Design Forum. Got questions (or answers)? Post in the Landscape Design Forum, and maybe the thread you start will find its way here someday!
Some of my favorite threads from the Landscape Design Forum. Got questions (or answers)? Post in the Landscape Design Forum, and maybe the thread you start will find its way here someday!
Flowering Quince
Should you grow flowering quince shrubs? These spring-blooming bushes have their good and bad points, which I relate while telling you how to grow them.
Should you grow flowering quince shrubs? These spring-blooming bushes have their good and bad points, which I relate while telling you how to grow them.
Chrysanthemums
The chrysanthemums covered here are hardy mums, a good choice for fall flowers in the North. Learn about their care: dividing, pinching, winter protection.
The chrysanthemums covered here are hardy mums, a good choice for fall flowers in the North. Learn about their care: dividing, pinching, winter protection.
How to Plant Boxwood Hedges
This step-by-step tutorial walks you through the steps in planting hedges. Through pictures I show you how to plant boxwood shrubs in a straight row.
This step-by-step tutorial walks you through the steps in planting hedges. Through pictures I show you how to plant boxwood shrubs in a straight row.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- Swamp Shrub
This photo of a poison sumac plant shows the entire bush growing in a swamp. Its leaves are their summer green, stems red, berries light green.
This photo of a poison sumac plant shows the entire bush growing in a swamp. Its leaves are their summer green, stems red, berries light green.
Vinca Minor Vines
Vinca minor vines are a popular choice of plants for with dry-shade areas. Vinca minor vines bear a bluish flower in spring.
Vinca minor vines are a popular choice of plants for with dry-shade areas. Vinca minor vines bear a bluish flower in spring.
Landscape Mulch
Landscape mulch properly used will promote plant health and the appearance of your garden. Some types may lower soil pH slightly, but this tendency can be counteracted by applying lime to the soil.
Landscape mulch properly used will promote plant health and the appearance of your garden. Some types may lower soil pH slightly, but this tendency can be counteracted by applying lime to the soil.
Landscape Design for Beginners
The basic landscape design ideas (color, form, line, scale, texture) are introduced with pictures to illustrate how they play out in designing a garden.
The basic landscape design ideas (color, form, line, scale, texture) are introduced with pictures to illustrate how they play out in designing a garden.
Stone Walkways
Learn how to build stone walkways, if you need to create a sturdy, attractive path from Point A to Point B. You can build a stone walkway that is either curved or straight.
Learn how to build stone walkways, if you need to create a sturdy, attractive path from Point A to Point B. You can build a stone walkway that is either curved or straight.
Shrubs With Golden Foliage: Fa
The false cypress group (or 'falsecypress') has some shrubs with fantastic golden foliage. Learn about growing 'Gold Mops,' 'Gold Thread' and others.
The false cypress group (or 'falsecypress') has some shrubs with fantastic golden foliage. Learn about growing 'Gold Mops,' 'Gold Thread' and others.
Types of Palm Trees
Beginners are bewildered by all the different types of palm trees available. To help, I offer a handy list of some of the various types in this introductory article.
Beginners are bewildered by all the different types of palm trees available. To help, I offer a handy list of some of the various types in this introductory article.
Varieties of Apple Trees
Planting apple trees properly is the first step in effective care. The home gardener can plant in spring in the North, in fall in the South.
Planting apple trees properly is the first step in effective care. The home gardener can plant in spring in the North, in fall in the South.
Blue Rug Juniper Plants
Blue Rug juniper plants are sturdy groundcovers for sunny slopes. This article contains growing tips and information on their use as groundcovers.
Blue Rug juniper plants are sturdy groundcovers for sunny slopes. This article contains growing tips and information on their use as groundcovers.
Building Dry Creek Beds
Building dry creek beds for landscape drainage is an easy landscaping project, provided that the soil you'll be excavating isn't strewn with roots and rocks. Once the digging is done, you'll build a dry creek bed laying weed-suppressing fabric and covering it with river rock, mortared in place.
Building dry creek beds for landscape drainage is an easy landscaping project, provided that the soil you'll be excavating isn't strewn with roots and rocks. Once the digging is done, you'll build a dry creek bed laying weed-suppressing fabric and covering it with river rock, mortared in place.
Flowering Trumpet Vines
Learn about the many uses for popular flowering vines, such as trumpet vines. Also discover the pros and cons of Campsis radicans.
Learn about the many uses for popular flowering vines, such as trumpet vines. Also discover the pros and cons of Campsis radicans.
Harry Lauder's Walking Stick
Harry Lauder's walking stick is a case in which a shrub truly shines only after its leaves have fallen. Plant Harry Lauder's walking stick to promote winter interest.
Harry Lauder's walking stick is a case in which a shrub truly shines only after its leaves have fallen. Plant Harry Lauder's walking stick to promote winter interest.
Building Concrete Patios
How to build concrete patios. How to build forms, install drainage for concrete patios, use automatic cement mixers, make use of unwanted garden rock and pour.
How to build concrete patios. How to build forms, install drainage for concrete patios, use automatic cement mixers, make use of unwanted garden rock and pour.
Snow-In-Summer Plants
Snow-in-summer plants (Cerastium tomentosum) are perennial flowers that can thrive in dry, sunny areas. The plants are often used in rock gardens for this reason.
Snow-in-summer plants (Cerastium tomentosum) are perennial flowers that can thrive in dry, sunny areas. The plants are often used in rock gardens for this reason.
Plants Poisonous to Dogs
Many plants poisonous to dogs are very common in back yards. These bad plants may be only mildly toxic or cause more serious canine health problems.
Many plants poisonous to dogs are very common in back yards. These bad plants may be only mildly toxic or cause more serious canine health problems.
Pictures of Poisonous Plants
Pictures of poisonous plants can help you to identify and avoid them. My list includes more than just toxic leaves, berries, etc. that you shouldn't eat.
Pictures of poisonous plants can help you to identify and avoid them. My list includes more than just toxic leaves, berries, etc. that you shouldn't eat.
Diablo Ninebark
Diablo ninebark is a flowering shrub. A North American native and also spelled 'Diabolo,' it's hardy as far north as zone 2. Learn how to grow the plant here.
Diablo ninebark is a flowering shrub. A North American native and also spelled 'Diabolo,' it's hardy as far north as zone 2. Learn how to grow the plant here.
Lawn Mowing
It's okay if you're a novice at cutting grass: it's easy to learn how to mow a lawn. Mowing doesn't take a lot of strength or skill -- just follow these tips.
It's okay if you're a novice at cutting grass: it's easy to learn how to mow a lawn. Mowing doesn't take a lot of strength or skill -- just follow these tips.
Dogwood Trees
Flowering dogwood trees are among the best spring specimens. 'Cherokee Chief' and Japanese (Kousa) trees are tops, as they excel at attracting wild birds.
Flowering dogwood trees are among the best spring specimens. 'Cherokee Chief' and Japanese (Kousa) trees are tops, as they excel at attracting wild birds.
Landscaping Pictures
Home landscaping pictures provide you with numerous ideas for creating your own beautiful yard. My photos illustrate components found in the best landscapes.
Home landscaping pictures provide you with numerous ideas for creating your own beautiful yard. My photos illustrate components found in the best landscapes.
Dry Shade Plants
Plants for dry shade meet a dual challenge: little water and little light. The plants for dry shade discussed in this article will tolerate these difficult conditions.
Plants for dry shade meet a dual challenge: little water and little light. The plants for dry shade discussed in this article will tolerate these difficult conditions.
Flowering Shrubs: Andromeda
My picture shows andromeda shrubs with white flowers. The Latin name for this bush is Pieris japonica.
My picture shows andromeda shrubs with white flowers. The Latin name for this bush is Pieris japonica.
Plant Lists
These plant lists cover different types of flowers suitable for growing in particular locations in the yard (sun, shade, etc). Learn what to plant where.
These plant lists cover different types of flowers suitable for growing in particular locations in the yard (sun, shade, etc). Learn what to plant where.
How to Install Pavers
Learn how to install pavers, from selection to laying a base to making cuts. In this guide, you'll find instructions for all the steps required, right up to cleaning.
Learn how to install pavers, from selection to laying a base to making cuts. In this guide, you'll find instructions for all the steps required, right up to cleaning.
Sumach Shrubs
Distinguish poison sumac shrubs from their harmless namesakes and consider the latter for great fall foliage. There are many types with brilliant fall foliage.
Distinguish poison sumac shrubs from their harmless namesakes and consider the latter for great fall foliage. There are many types with brilliant fall foliage.
Scarecrow Sprinklers
Scarecrow Sprinklers are better than animal repellents that you spread on the ground (and that you'd have to reapply after a rainstorm), as I say in my review.
Scarecrow Sprinklers are better than animal repellents that you spread on the ground (and that you'd have to reapply after a rainstorm), as I say in my review.
Peony Plants
Taxonomy of Peony Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies peony plants under the genus, Paeonia . Within the
Taxonomy of Peony Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies peony plants under the genus, Paeonia . Within the
Korean Spice Viburnum
Plant Taxonomy of Korean Spice Viburnum: Plant taxonomy classifies Korean spice viburnum shrubs as Viburnum
Plant Taxonomy of Korean Spice Viburnum: Plant taxonomy classifies Korean spice viburnum shrubs as Viburnum
Crimson Queen Japanese Maple T
Crimson Queen Japanese maple trees are valued for their weeping habit and the vibrant color of their dissected leaves. I relate growing information here.
Crimson Queen Japanese maple trees are valued for their weeping habit and the vibrant color of their dissected leaves. I relate growing information here.