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Spring Blooms

Eastern Redbud Trees: A Popular Landscaping Choice with Stunning Flowers

by Donna October 15, 2021

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Eastern Redbud: A Popular Landscaping Tree with Stunning Flowers

Introduction

The eastern redbud is a beautiful flowering tree that is popular for landscaping. It is native to eastern North America and is known for its showy spring blooms. Redbud trees are relatively easy to grow and are a good choice for gardeners of all levels.

Characteristics of the Eastern Redbud

Size: Eastern redbuds typically grow to be 20 to 30 feet tall and have a broad, spreading crown.
Leaves: The leaves are heart-shaped and about four inches long. They are a medium green color and turn yellow in the fall.
Flowers: The flowers are the most striking feature of the eastern redbud. They are pea-like in shape and bloom in clusters directly on the stems and even on the trunk. The flowers are usually pink, but can also be lavender or white.
Fruit: The flowers develop into flat pods that contain seeds.

Varieties of Eastern Redbud Trees

There are many different varieties of eastern redbud trees available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Forest Pansy: This variety has striking, deep reddish-purple leaves that fade to green during the summer. The flowers are a pinkish-purple.
Merlot: Another variety with deep red leaves. The flowers are a pinkish lavender color.
Hearts of Gold: Hearts of Gold has yellow leaves that change to green during the summer. The flowers are a pale pink.
Rising Sun: This is a smaller variety, growing to about 12 feet tall. The leaves are a golden orange color that changes to yellow and then green.
Carolina Sweetheart: This variety has unique leaves that emerge pink before becoming variegated in purple, white, green, and hot pink. The flowers are a pale pink.
Silver Cloud: This variety has white and green variegated leaves. The flowers are a pale pink.
Appalachian Red: The flowers on this variety are a deep, saturated pink that is closer to hot pink or magenta than red.
Royal White: For bright white flowers against green leaves, try this cultivar.
Flame: Flame produces double blooms in a deep rose color.
Ruby Falls: Ruby Falls offers both a unique color and a special form. One of a handful of weeping redbuds, this one has purple-red leaves.
Lavender Twist: Another weeping cultivar, Lavender Twist has green leaves and pinkish purple flowers. It grows vigorously and quickly and can completely arch over.

Benefits of Eastern Redbud Trees

Eastern redbud trees offer a number of benefits for gardeners, including:

Beautiful flowers: The showy spring blooms are a major attraction of eastern redbud trees.
Easy to grow: Redbud trees are relatively easy to grow and are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions.
Native species: Eastern redbuds are native to eastern North America, which means they are well-adapted to the local climate and are beneficial to wildlife.
Small size: Redbud trees are a good size for small yards or urban gardens.

Planting and Care

Eastern redbud trees prefer well-drained soil, but they are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. They should be planted in full sun to partial shade. Redbud trees are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.

Conclusion

Eastern redbud trees are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any landscape. With their showy spring blooms and attractive foliage, redbud trees are sure to add beauty and interest to your yard for many years to come.

Flower Gardening

The Peruvian Daffodil: A Unique and Beautiful Flower with a Touch of Mystery

by Gregory September 26, 2021

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

The Peruvian Daffodil: A Unique and Beautiful Flower

Introduction

The Peruvian daffodil, also known as Hymenocallis narcissiflora, is a stunning perennial bulb that produces delicate white flowers with pale green to yellow markings. Despite its name, it’s not a true daffodil but belongs to the amaryllis family. This fascinating plant has captured the attention of gardeners for centuries with its unique “spidery” appearance and delightful fragrance.

Origins and Characteristics

The Peruvian daffodil is native to the Andes of Peru. Its elongated, sometimes curved petals resemble the legs of a spider, giving rise to its common names “spider lily” and “basket flower.” The flowers bloom in clusters of two to five on stalks that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The plant also produces long, dark green leaves that persist into the fall.

Varieties and Hybrids

In addition to the original species, there are several hybrid varieties of Peruvian daffodils. One popular hybrid is Hymenocallis x festalis, which boasts even showier flowers with ribbon-like petals. These hybrids often display a wider range of colors, including shades of pink and orange.

Planting and Care

Growing Peruvian daffodils is relatively easy. They prefer well-drained soil and thrive in partial shade or full sun. Plant the bulbs in the fall in zones 8 to 11, where they are hardy. In colder climates (zones 7 and below), the bulbs should be dug up in the fall and stored indoors for spring planting.

Caring for Peruvian daffodils is simple. Water them regularly, especially during the blooming period. Fertilize the plants occasionally to encourage growth and flowering. The bulbs will propagate themselves readily in the garden, producing offsets that can be separated and planted in new locations.

Toxicity

It’s important to note that Peruvian daffodil bulbs are poisonous. They contain a substance called lycorine, which can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Ensure that children and pets do not have access to the bulbs.

Forcing Peruvian Daffodils Indoors

Peruvian daffodil bulbs can be forced indoors to provide flowers in the winter. To do this, pot up the bulbs after two months of storage, give them water and light, and they should soon bloom again.

Additional Tips

Plant Peruvian daffodils alongside other early spring bloomers for a vibrant garden display.
To prevent overcrowding, separate and replant the offsets every five years or so.
Peruvian daffodils are relatively low-maintenance plants that are well-suited for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Conclusion

The Peruvian daffodil is a captivating and easy-to-grow plant that adds beauty and interest to any garden. With its unique appearance, pleasant fragrance, and adaptability to various growing conditions, it’s no wonder this plant has become a favorite among gardeners worldwide.

Gardening

Why Aren’t My Magnolia Buds Opening? Troubleshooting and Solutions

by Gregory July 7, 2021

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Why Aren’t My Magnolia Buds Opening?

Magnolia trees are known for their beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. But what happens when the buds don’t open? It can be frustrating and disappointing, but there are several possible reasons why this might happen.

Cultural Practices

One of the most common reasons for magnolia buds not opening is improper cultural practices. Magnolias need lots of sunlight to produce flowers, so if your tree is getting too much shade, it may not bloom. Similarly, magnolias don’t do well with too much nitrogen fertilizer. If you’re fertilizing your tree, make sure to use a balanced fertilizer and follow the directions on the package carefully.

Weather Conditions

Weather can also play a role in magnolia buds not opening. If the winter weather is wet, the buds can rot. Cold fall weather can bring frosts earlier than usual, before the buds are prepared for it. This can also prevent flowers from blooming in the spring.

Pests and Diseases

Another possible cause of magnolia buds not opening is an attack by insects called thrips. Thrips feed on the buds, causing them to turn brown and drop off the tree. If you notice thrips on your magnolia tree, you can apply an appropriate pesticide to control them.

How to Make a Magnolia Bloom

If you’re wondering how to make a magnolia bloom, there are a few things you can do.

Choose the right cultivar. Some magnolia cultivars are more likely to bloom than others. If you live in a cold climate, choose a cultivar that is cold-hardy.
Plant your tree in a sunny location. Magnolias need at least six hours of sunlight per day to bloom.
Water your tree regularly. Magnolias need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months.
Fertilize your tree. Magnolias benefit from a balanced fertilizer. Follow the directions on the package carefully.
Protect your tree from pests and diseases. Thrips and other pests can damage magnolia buds. Apply pesticides as needed to control pests.
Prune your tree. Pruning can help to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can encourage blooming.

Troubleshooting Magnolia Problems

If you’re having trouble getting your magnolia tree to bloom, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

Check the sunlight. Make sure your tree is getting at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Check the soil. Magnolias prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.
Check for pests and diseases. Inspect your tree for signs of thrips or other pests. If you find any pests, apply an appropriate pesticide.
Check the weather. If the winter weather was wet or cold, it may have damaged the magnolia buds.
Check the cultivar. Some magnolia cultivars are more likely to bloom than others. If you’re not sure what cultivar you have, you can contact your local nursery or extension office for help.

With a little care and attention, you can help your magnolia tree to produce beautiful blooms year after year.

Flower Gardening

Triplet Lilies: A Comprehensive Guide to Planting, Growing, and Care

by Gregory June 19, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Triplet Lilies: A Guide to Planting, Growing, and Care

Introduction

Triplet lilies, also known as “Pretty Face” or “Wild Hyacinth,” are beautiful perennial plants that add a splash of color to your garden in late spring or early summer. Native to the northwestern United States, these easy-to-grow plants are a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Planting Triplet Lilies

When to Plant: Plant triplet lilies in spring after the last frost or in autumn with other spring-blooming flowers.
Where to Plant: Choose a sunny to partly sunny location with well-draining soil.
How to Plant: Plant the corms (underground bulbs) about 4 inches apart and 5 inches deep, or three times the height of the corm. Remember to plant with the root side down.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil before planting by adding organic matter such as shredded leaves, compost, or well-composted manure. You can also add a slow-release fertilizer.

Growing Triplet Lilies

Watering: Water the corms regularly until roots develop. Once established, triplet lilies are drought tolerant, but they still appreciate occasional watering.
Fertilizing: Fertilize triplet lilies lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Mulching: Spread a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Companion Planting: Plant triplet lilies in front of irises to hide the fading foliage of the irises after they bloom.

Triplet Lily Care

Pests and Diseases: Triplet lilies are generally pest- and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to aphids, thrips, and botrytis.
Dividing: Divide triplet lilies every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and encourage blooming.
Winter Protection: In colder climates (USDA zone 6 and below), mulch heavily around the plants to protect them from freezing temperatures.

Triplet Lily Varieties

There are several varieties of triplet lilies available, each with unique characteristics:

Triteleia laxa: The most common variety, with light blue, lavender, or white blooms.
Triteleia grandiflora: Larger blooms than T. laxa, in shades of blue, purple, and white.
Triteleia hyacinthina: A compact variety with bright blue blooms and grass-like foliage.

Additional Tips

Triplet lilies attract butterflies and other pollinators to your garden.
The corms can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dry place.
Triplet lilies are deer resistant.

Conclusion

Triplet lilies are a low-maintenance, colorful addition to any garden. With their ease of care and adaptability, these versatile plants are perfect for both experienced and beginner gardeners.

Gardening

Growing Amaryllis Outdoors: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory February 14, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Growing Amaryllis Outdoors: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Amaryllis, a popular holiday gift plant, is not just limited to indoor enjoyment. In warmer climates, up to USDA zone 7b, these stunning bulbs can thrive outdoors in your garden. This article will provide a detailed guide on how to successfully plant and care for amaryllis in your outdoor space.

Planting Amaryllis Outdoors

When to Plant: New amaryllis bulbs should be planted in the fall, along with other spring bloomers. Forced plants, those that have already bloomed indoors, can be moved outside in spring after the frost has passed.
Choosing a Location: Amaryllis prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both sun and shade. However, they bloom best in partial shade, where they receive some direct sunlight but are protected from intense heat.
Preparing the Soil: Improve soil drainage by creating raised beds or mixing in organic matter like peat or compost. This will provide nutrients for healthy growth.
Planting Instructions: Plant amaryllis bulbs neck deep, keeping the top 1/3 of the bulb above soil level. Space them 12 to 15 inches apart. Water well after planting.

Caring for Amaryllis in the Garden

Watering: Keep amaryllis moist throughout the growing season. Established plants are somewhat drought tolerant, but regular watering is important, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Feed amaryllis with a balanced fertilizer once in early spring. Additional fertilizer can be applied a couple more times during the growing season as needed.
Mulching: Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch around your plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and provide insulation during cooler temperatures.
Bloom Cycle: Once planted outdoors, forced amaryllis bulbs will revert back to their natural spring blooming cycle. Remove the flower stalks once they have faded.
Foliage: Amaryllis foliage typically remains throughout the summer before succumbing to fall frosts.
Overcrowding: If plants become overcrowded, divide the clumps and separate them. This can also help with reduced blooming.

Additional Tips

Acclimate forced plants to outdoor conditions gradually by slowly introducing them to more light over a period of several days.
Protect amaryllis from excessive sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.
Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and provide nutrients.
Bone meal can be used as a bloom booster for reduced blooming.

Conclusion

Growing amaryllis in the garden is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year. With proper care, amaryllis will thrive outdoors, adding a touch of elegance and color to your garden.

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