Topics
Special Series
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Cardinal Flower—Spectacular Scarlet Blossoms That Hummingbirds Adore
In the early fall, as you approach the edge of a woodland stream or the banks of a secluded pond, you may glimpse a flash of red. This spark of scarlet is from what may be the most brilliant of our native blossoms, the cardinal flower.
By Dr. Cathy Donaldson -
Recycled Products—Turning Trash into Garden Tools
Recycling prevents global habitat destruction by providing industry with an alternative, ready source of "raw" material. It leads, therefore, to the conservation of energy, the reduction of industrial pollution, and the preservation of species biodiversity.
By Niall Dunne -
Using Vines in the Garden
It's often said that vines are the best friends of a passionate gardener with a small urban lot. And it's true: There's no better way to splash color and texture around a postage-stamp property than by collecting plants that grow skyward rather than sideways. But this doesn't begin to give vines their due, for there are no more versatile creatures in plantdom.
By Karen Davis Cutler -
Flowering Vines 101
North America is the home of horizontal gardeners. A few trees and shrubs may creep into our landscapes, but our sight usually is directed down and straight ahead, making it easy for us to forget plants that grow up rather than hug the ground. Making it easy to forget flowering vines.
By Karen Davis Cutler -
Growing Vines Successfully
Vines are a diverse group of plants. Most are easy to grow and require little care; however, a basic knowledge of their cultural needs is important for success in your garden.
By Andrew Bunting -
Lemon Grass: A Very Versatile Herb
Lemon grass is a tropical perennial, native to southern India, but cultivated outdoors in practically all tropical regions. In the United States, it is root-hardy to about USDA Zone 9 (California, central Florida) where it goes dormant during the mild winter.
By Robert Newgarden -
Twelve Ways to Design a Bird-friendly Garden
Twelve general guidelines on how to design a garden that appeals to both birds and people.
By Stephen W. Kress -
Indoor Worm Bin Composting
You can use red worms to recycle your food waste by setting up a worm bin recycling system in your school classroom or at home in your kitchen, basement, garage or yard.
By Patricia Jasaitis -
The Four-Square: A Classic Kitchen Garden Design
Like a country kitchen, a four-square kitchen garden evokes thoughts of hearth, home, and abundance. It is a garden design based on a very simple layout that provides a rich, unpretentious display of color, form, and, quite literally, good taste.
By John D. Simpson -
Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac
This native shrub is known for its gorgeous foliage. It's easy to grow and produces distinctive flowers and pretty winter berries.
By Robert Newgarden
