USDA Zone 3

Ajuga Reptans

Discover the Beauty and Versatility of Ajuga Reptans for Your Garden Ajuga Reptans is a fast-growing member of the mint family. It is known to spread quickly enough via runners to become invasive in some areas. The reptans part of its Latin name means "to creep." It is a naturalized North American plant introduced from several places in Europe and Asia. Ajuga Reptans grow well in Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. They are susceptible to most dirt, though they prefer slightly acidic. Fully grown plants generally stand 6" to 8" high; flower stalks can grow to 12". Each plant may extend up to 12". They quickly form mats, especially in shaded areas beneath other trees and shrubs. The plant is hardy enough to grow beneath black walnut trees. Ajuga Reptans A Low-Maintenance Ground Cover Solution The plant's growth speed can be controlled by where it is planted. Plants in shadier areas tend to grow faster than those in sunnier regions. The plant is best planted in rock gardens, container-edged beds, or wide-open areas that need ground cover quickly. It lends itself well to erosion control. It should not be planted near any less hardy flowers at home, as it may choke them out. Transform Your Landscape with Vibrant Ajuga Reptans Plants They should be periodically divided and thinned, at minimum, every third year. They flower through the spring and summer, generally beginning in May or June. Pinching off runners helps with this, too. The flowers are blue, purple, or white, though there is at least one cultivar with pink flowers. Other cultivar strains have leaves that are multi-colored or variegated. Beyond thinning, the Ajuga Reptans is relatively low-maintenance. It needs no extra fertilizer and is worry-free against most garden pests. However, care should be taken in areas of high humidity to ensure properly drained soil and prevent southern rot. It is deer and rabbit-resistant.

American Arborvitae

American Arborvitae A Versatile Evergreen for Privacy and Beauty American Arborvitae is an evergreen, adaptable tree. Its pyramid shape makes it the obvious choice for windbreaks. It requires no consideration when utilized as a support or screen. Sets of these strong trees make extraordinary accents for entryways and garden doors. Furthermore, single trees make house corners seem a lot less glaring. American Arborvitae A Versatile Evergreen for Privacy and Beauty Tall and exquisite, this tree might be the correct answer for your exterior design. This is an evergreen, keeping its green foliage all year. The tree develops to a tallness of 40– 60' and a spread of 10– 15' at development. The American Arborvitae develops somewhat slowly, with one to two feet growth rates per year. The full sun is perfect for this tree, meaning it should get no less than six hours of direct, unfiltered daylight daily. The tree develops well in acidic, loamy, clammy, rich, sandy, silty topsoil and very much depleted, wet soils. Why American Arborvitae is Perfect for Landscaping and Hedging Features minor, scale-like leaves pressed firmly together in segmenting lines on branchlets, showing in a straightened, fan-like shower. The leaves change from brilliant green in the mid-year to many rich yellow and dark-colored green tints in the winter. It can be planted 3 feet apart for a low-maintenance hedge. It releases a pleasing aroma when leaves are squeezed. It yields light brown or reddish-brown oblong cones that are ⅜–½" long and persist through winter. Cone scales are blunt-tipped and separate from each other at the base. Caring for American Arborvitae Tips for Thriving Evergreen Growth American Arborvitae gives sanctuary in the winter and settling locales for grackles, robins, and house finches in the mid-year; cottontail rabbits, snowshoe hares, deer, and an infrequent moose additionally peruse this evergreen. Red squirrels and birds, such as pine siskins, eat the seeds. The name arborvitae is a Latin form of the French "l'arbre de vie," which means "tree of life." Linnaeus, the Swedish botanist who assigned the Latin name to this species, picked up on other traits. The genus name, Thuja, is from a Greek word for scent. Pressing the evergreen leaves discharges a fragrance known far and wide as nature's aroma. America Arborvitae was valuable in early kayaks and prescriptions and became the principal North American tree to be acquainted with Europe. The explicit name, occidentalis, signifies "west," the bearing from Sweden where this tree was found.

American Beech Seedlings

American Beech Seedlings Are Perfect for Reforestation and Landscaping American Beech Seedlings are widely found throughout eastern North America, from Canada to southern Texas. This speaks to their ability to withstand a variety of weather, such as extreme cold and heat. They thrive in Hardiness Zones 3 - 9. It is a deciduous, shade-favored tree that prefers full sun and wet, aerated dirt. It can produce easy moisture runoff. Why American Beech Seedlings Are Perfect for Reforestation and Landscaping They climb to heights between 66 and 115 feet at a medium rate of 1-2 feet per year. Their trunks are wide, sometimes growing to a meter or more. The silvery bark is thin and smooth to the touch, and it stays that way throughout the tree's mature years. In crowded, shady spaces, the trunk extends high and spreads into a few sturdy branches with dense overhead foliage. Its disposition changes in a sunnier territory, offering many horizontally extending limbs that create a sprawling, short crown. The leaves are wide ovals with saw-tooth edges and veins. They turn many shades of vibrant green during spring and summer, then peak to yellow or brown in fall.  Caring for American Beech Seedlings Expert Tips for Thriving Growth The American Beech Seedlings flowers in the early spring, during April and May, display male flowers that are small, yellow, and ball-like. The female flowers are similar but have a reddish-brown scaling. They present at the ends of new twigs. They produce the aptly named beechnut in mass quantities every two or three years; it is a favorite treat of squirrels, birds, and other wildlife. Shop Healthy American Beech Seedlings for Sustainable Landscaping American Beech Seedlings' thin roots tend to grow very close to the surface, making this tree ideal for areas where no other gardening is wanted or needed. Landscapers love to use beech trees on large properties needing that perfect spot of shade to relax. They can also be used as a decorative, effective shade cover for driveways on sprawling estates.

Apple Fruit Trees

Apple Fruit trees are among the most iconic and widely cultivated. These deciduous trees belong to the Rosaceae family, which includes other fruit-bearing plants like roses, cherries, and pears. They are appreciated for their delicious, versatile fruit and cultural and historical significance. They are native to Central Asia but have been cultivated in various parts of the world for thousands of years. They can grow in multiple climates, making them adaptable to different regions. These trees typically reach 15 to 30 feet and have a rounded canopy of lush green leaves. Why Apple Fruit Trees Are Perfect for Home Orchards One of the most remarkable features of the Apple Fruit tree is its fruit production. Thanks to the countless apple cultivars developed over centuries, apples come in various colors, sizes, and flavors. From sweet and crisp apples like Honeycrisp and Fuji to tart and juicy varieties like Granny Smith and Braeburn, there's an apple for every palate. How to Plant and Care for Apple Fruit Trees for Maximum Yield  The trees require specific conditions for optimal growth and fruit production. They thrive in well-drained soil with good air circulation and total sun exposure. Proper pruning and maintenance are essential to ensure healthy tree development and maximum fruit yield. They also benefit from cross-pollination, where bees and other pollinators transfer pollen between apple tree varieties, enhancing fruit production.  The Best Apple Fruit Trees for Your Climate and Garden Beyond their fruit-bearing qualities, the Apple Fruit trees have cultural and symbolic significance in many societies. The apple is often associated with love, temptation, and knowledge in folklore and mythology. The fruit plays a prominent role in various religious stories and traditions, including the story of Adam and Eve in the Bible. In conclusion, Apple Fruit Trees are a beloved and essential part of horticulture and human culture. Their versatility, adaptability, and rich history make them a cherished addition to gardens and orchards worldwide, providing fruit and a connection to our agricultural heritage.  

Arrowwood Viburnum

Why Arrowwood Viburnum Is a Top Choice for Natural Privacy Hedges Arrowwood Viburnum, also known as the Southern arrowwood or European cranberry bush, is a small, shrubby garden plant that displays few flowers but plentiful foliage. The leaves are glossy and abundant and turn reddish in autumn. When properly planted, this deciduous tree requires little care because it flourishes in barren soil and full sun. It should be planted in an area with at least six to eight hours of sun daily or where it will receive adequate light from a nearby structure such as a deck, porch, or house.  Arrowwood Viburnum The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Shrub for Wildlife Gardens The shrub is hardy and adaptable, but the young plant may droop when exposed to wind. This type of irritation will pass quickly and should not be a cause for alarm. The Arrowwood Viburnum grows well in several soil types but requires the same conditions to thrive: full sun, well-draining soil, and mulch regularly. The shrub has little to no pests or disease problems and is easy to tend to, making it an ideal option for newbie gardeners. It is a good choice for the home garden because it requires little care when properly planted yet provides deep shade and vibrant foliage. It is a deciduous tree that grows in several soil types. Although it involves the sun, it can be pruned to provide complete shade.  How to Grow and Care for Arrowwood Viburnum in Your Landscape If adequately watered and fertilized, the shrub will rise to 15 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Although this plant is not fussy about soil conditions, it prefers a well-draining loam or sandy loam. The shrub requires little care unless it is being grown in a small area with limited sunlight. If prompted by restricted sunlight, the tree can be cut to five feet and shaped. It is a good choice for areas where the viburnum will receive adequate light from a nearby structure, such as a porch or house. The Arrowwood Viburnum gets its name from its shapely branches that form an "arrow." This plant has edible fruit that can be used in jams or jellies. Pruning is not necessary, but if the viburnum seems overgrown, it can be cut back to five feet. The tree will regenerate without any issues.

Baneberry

The Allure of Baneberry A Must-Have for Shaded Gardens White baneberry, commonly known as doll's eye (Actaea pachypoda), is a perennial plant native to North America. It gets its common name from the distinctive white berries it produces, each with a black dot, resembling a doll's eye. Here are some specific tips for growing white baneberry (doll's eye):  Site Selection- Light: Prefers partial to full shade. It thrives in woodland settings or shaded garden areas.- Soil: Grows best in rich, moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted leaf mold.  Watering- Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. However, avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot.- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. How to Grow and Care for Baneberry in Your Backyard  Maintenance- Fertilization: White baneberry typically does not need heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can promote healthy growth.- Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring. Pruning spent flowers can help maintain the plant's appearance and prevent seed dispersal if self-seeding is not desired.- Pest and Disease Management: Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for signs of disease, especially root rot. Ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.  Special Considerations- Toxicity: All parts of the plant, especially the berries, are toxic if ingested. Plant in areas away from children and pets.- Wildlife: While toxic to humans, the berries may be eaten by birds. The plant can also provide cover and habitat for small wildlife.  Additional Tips- Companion Planting: Consider planting white baneberry with other shade-loving plants such as ferns, hostas, or woodland phlox to create a lush, diverse garden.- Naturalizing: White baneberry can naturalize in woodland gardens, spreading slowly over time. Allow it to form colonies for a more natural look. Discover the Benefits of Planting Baneberry in Your Landscape By following these tips, you can successfully grow and enjoy the unique and intriguing white baneberry (doll's eye) in your garden, adding both beauty and a touch of the unusual to shaded areas.

Bearded Iris

The Timeless Elegance of Bearded Iris in Your Garden The Bearded Iris, known scientifically as Iris germanica, is a perennial plant renowned for its stunning and intricate blooms. It is characterized by its ruffled petals and a distinctive "beard" on its falls (the lower petals). Bearded irises typically have large, showy flowers with six petals: three upright petals called standards and three drooping petals called falls. The falls often have a fuzzy or hairy texture (the "beard") near their centers. The plant has sword-shaped leaves that grow in a fan-like arrangement. Bearded Irises are perfect for borders due to their height and stunning blooms – typically planted in the middle or back of the border due to their height. Combine Bearded Irises with other perennials like daylilies, peonies, and lupines to extend the blooming season and add varied textures. Mass plantings can make a bold statement and are especially effective in large garden spaces. The bearded iris bulbs are easy to plant and can spread rather quickly How to Grow and Care for Bearded Iris for Vibrant Blooms They need to be planted in late summer or early fall. The Bearded Iris is like a sunny spot with at least six hours of full sun to help keep the rhizomes dry. It's best to plant them about 16-18 inches apart for good air circulation. They do not need mulching because constant moisture will rot the rhizomes. To preserve the plant's energy, remove the seed pod that forms after they have bloomed. To ensure a healthier plant, prune back the foliage in the fall. They should be divided every three to four years in late summer if they are thickly clustered. Rhizomes, their root structure, can die off as new ones form to cause crowding and slow the blooms from forming. Dividing them will give the plants new ground for growth. Bearded Iris A Low-Maintenance Perennial for Stunning Landscapes To divide Bearded Iris, use a garden spade or fork, carefully lifting them out of the soil to avoid damaging the rhizomes. Slowly pull the plants apart using your hands while examining them for dead or damaged rhizomes. Use a knife to separate baby rhizomes from the parent, ensuring the knife has been sanitized with ten percent bleach water between cuts. Discard any damaged or diseased plant parts. Replant, fanning the roots and leaving a portion of the rhizome exposed. Put the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, clipping the tops to 4 to 6 inches.

Beech Tree

Why the Beech Tree Is a Top Choice for Shade and Beauty in Your Landscape The Beech tree is named for more than patriotic regions. Also referred to as the North American type, this particular species is native to America. Most of its growing locations are in the eastern area of the United States, along with some in the very southeastern portion of Canada. The range of growth goes as far west as Wisconsin and south down to Florida. Some consider a variation in Mexico related to the tree. A few varieties of this particular tree are recognized, though they are considered less distinct. Beech Tree Care Expert Tips for Thriving Growth and Longevity The Beech tree is deciduous with a growth potential ranging from 66 to 115 feet. One of the more distinctive features of this particular tree is that of its branches and winter twigs, which can be long, thin, and paired in their growth towards the sky. The bark is a little scale-like, particularly the buds with overlapping rows of scales. One of the easy-to-distinguish characteristics is the bud, which is often referred to as resembling a cigar, making it easier to determine among other trees. It is also a more shade-tolerant tree than many others and is commonly found in forests due to its nature. They favor a well-watered and sound drainage system for growth with more requirements for moisture and rich soils than other options. Aside from appearance, the tree also has a common food item for certain wildlife known as the beech nut. Discover the Unique Benefits of Planting a Beech Tree in Your Yard The Beech tree is vital because of its wide canopy, varying fall colors, and multiple uses, from yards and nature to those found lining golf courses. Not a fast grower, it's a tree for generations, planted now to be enjoyed long term, for centuries to come.

Black Chokeberry

Why Black Chokeberry is a Must-Have for Your Landscape Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a North American deciduous shrub. From its species name, melanocarpa, it bears black fruits and features white flowers and red fall foliage. It is a thorny shrub with a wide tolerance to several soil densities, textures, moisture conditions, and pH levels. It can be planted in hardiness zones 3-8 and grows 3-6 feet tall at maturity. And spreads to a width of 6 – 10 feet. It spreads to form a mound shape. This shrub thrives nicely in wet and dry locations where the soil is acidic or alkaline. It thrives well in areas whose soil texture is sandy, loam, or clay. It also does well in soil with a pH of 5.1 – 6.5 but tolerates higher values. The shrub can be planted in either partial shade or full sun. Its growth speed can be described as slow to fast, depending on the prevailing environmental factors. Black Chokeberry A Hardy Shrub with Year-Round Beauty The Black Chokeberry's leaves emerge in a medium green color and measure 1 -3". In early spring, the shrub has a showy display of white flowers in clusters referred to as corymbs. As the season advances, the leaves change to a deep and glossy green, which brightens the shrub and increases its appeal during the summer's dog days. From mid to the end of summer, the berries start developing, and within two weeks, the branches are overwhelmed by the fruit clusters. This makes the shrub acquire a purplish black appearance, and the 1/3 – ½ inch berries continue developing until January. At this time, they are usually distasteful to birds. The Benefits of Growing Black Chokeberry in Your Garden If you pay careful attention, the Black Chokeberry bush can be a great addition to your landscape gardens. The shrub can be grown to attract bees and birds and act as a windbreaker.

Black Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan A Vibrant Choice for Your Garden Black Eyed Susan, scientifically known as Rudbeckia hirta, is a vibrant and popular flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is renowned for its striking golden-yellow petals with a dark brown to black central cone. This distinctive appearance has earned it the common name. These beautiful wildflowers are aesthetically pleasing and hold cultural significance and ecological importance. How to Grow and Care for Black Eyed Susan Plants They typically grow as perennial wildflowers in their native habitat, which stretches from the eastern United States to the Midwest. However, due to their long-lasting and robust nature, they are often cultivated as annuals or perennials in gardens and landscapes. These hardy plants can thrive in various soil types and are drought-tolerant, making them a popular choice for low-maintenance gardens. One of the most attractive features of the black-eyed Susan is their ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These insects are drawn to the bright flowers, aiding pollination and supporting local ecosystems. Furthermore, these flowers are known for their versatility, as they can be used in various landscaping settings, from wildflower meadows and cottage gardens to formal flower beds and borders. Black Eyed Susan Flowers Benefits for Pollinators and Landscapes In terms of symbolism, Black Eyed Susan is often associated with encouragement and motivation, symbolizing the strength and determination needed to overcome challenges. They have also found their way into various folk traditions, with some Native American tribes using them for many purposes. In conclusion, the Black-Eyed susan is a visually stunning and ecologically valuable wildflower with a rich cultural history. Its bright, cheery appearance, adaptability, and role in supporting pollinators make it a favorite among gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you encounter them in the wild or cultivate them in your garden, they are a delightful addition to any landscape, adding beauty and ecological benefits to their surroundings.

Black Haw Viburnum

Benefits of Planting Black Haw Viburnum in Your Landscape Black Haw Viburnum, also called black haw, is a shrubby tree that grows from 12 to 15 feet high with a canopy 6 to 12 feet wide when left unpruned. When pruned to a single stem and grown as a tree, the black haw reaches heights of 30 feet with a canopy that reaches 20 feet wide. It is a native plant that thrives nicely in Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. How to Care for Black Haw Viburnum for Year-Round Beauty The black haw prefers full sun to partial shade, with sunnier locations producing bushes with more abundant flowers and fruit. The tree flourishes in various soil types but prefers well-drained soil that is amended with compost and organic material. During hot weather, this drought-resistant tree grows well when watered regularly. In landscaping, it is an ornamental used to create borders, privacy screens, and diverse garden bed displays. Black Haw Viburnum is suitable for planting in dense clusters to create privacy screens. In spring, the black haw produces clusters of white flowers that attract bees and butterflies, while birds are attracted to the berries that ripen in autumn. Black haw berries are edible and are often used to make jams. Black Haw Viburnum A Perfect Shrub for Pollinators and Privacy Black Haw Viburnum produces vivid foliage in autumn with bronze, red, and purple leaves. It has an irregular, mounded shape and dark green, obovate leaves. The leaves are glossy and appear opposite each other on the branches. The dense branches are packed with abundant twigs, while the brown bark is rough and has an alligator skin pattern. In summer, the tree produces noticeable buds. To avoid removing new buds, prune it immediately after the blooms fall off in spring or summer. Black haw berries are light green when they appear in early summer and gradually ripen to blue or black in autumn. The berries may shrivel during autumn or winter.

Black Willow Live Stakes

Black Willow Live Stakes for Streambank Stabilization and Erosion Control Black Willow Live Stakes is a drought-tolerant tree that handles both sun and shade well; they are a great choice. These trees grow well in zones 3-9 and are deciduous and fast-growing. They are increasingly popular landscape choices due to their aesthetic appeal. Since the trees are relatively small, they are used to shade patios and decks but can also be planted as a border. Why Black Willow Live Stakes Are Perfect for Wetland Restoration Projects Black Willow Live Stakes are also known as Rough Leaf Dogwood Shrubs and bloom from the middle of the spring until the end of summer. At maturity, the tree is between 16 and 20 feet high. The leaves have a smooth texture and feature veins growing up to 4 inches long. They have medium to light green leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn into a pronounced shade of red that glimmers in the autumn sun. If your soil tends to collect too much moisture, it is an ideal plant since it helps prevent soil erosion.  These trees can thrive in cold and dry weather and grow best in moist, well-drained soil. Black Willow Live Stakes thrive in various types of weather, but the fruit and flowers are exceptionally healthy when they get more sunlight. The flowers are a stark white hue and bloom in the middle of the spring and into the summer. Buy Black Willow Live Stakes for Fast-Growing and Sustainable Landscaping Even though the tree is part of the Dogwood family, it is resistant to pests and small animals that are usually attracted to dogwood. At the end of the summer and into the fall, the tree produces berry-like fruit that various animals use for food, including squirrels, butterflies, and insects that feed on nectar. Several birds, including the American goldfinch, are attracted to this tree, which makes your landscape even more beautiful.

Blackberry Lily

Blackberry Lily A Stunning Perennial for Vibrant Summer Gardens Blackberry Lily, also known as the Belamcanda chinensis, is from the Iris family and has clusters of black fruit that grow after flowering. The fruit resembles blackberries, and the flowers are shaped like stars with six petals each. They measure about 2 inches across. The lilies are pale orange or yellow on the "flabellata," and the petals are spotted. This is why they are sometimes often referred to as the Leopard Flower.  How to Grow and Care for Blackberry Lily in Your Landscape Blackberry Lily is a perennial generally grown for its unique blackberries, which form clusters when their seedpods slip open, usually in the fall. They are pretty fascinating and make excellent arrangements for your home. The plant has an orange flower color and chartreuse/gold foliage. It provides colorful fall foliage, blooms in the summer, and is a winter interest. It tolerates drought conditions, does quite well in containers, and is deficient in maintenance. Blackberry Lily is grown from bulbs or tubers, and these bulbs can be planted at any time of the year as long as the ground is not frozen. Planting these gorgeous lilies in a sunny or lightly shaded area with well-draining soil for the best results is best. It's also best to keep the soil moist. The flowers of the plant last one day, but they are continually blooming during their bloom season. A dry cluster of black fruits will form after the blooms are gone. The blooms will close at night in a twisting form, and their foliage is similar to that of the Iris plant and can reach up to three feet tall. Discover the Unique Beauty and Benefits of Blackberry Lily Plants Climate Zone: 5-10 Mature Height: From 1 to 8 Feet Mature Width: 15-20 Inches Wide Sunlight: Part Sun, Sun Soil Conditions: Well-Draining Soil Botanical Name: Belamcanda Chinensis

Blackberry Plant

Growing a Healthy Blackberry Plant Tips for Thriving Fruits The blackberry plant (Rubus fruticosus) is a perennial shrub in the Rosaceae family. It produces sweet, dark purple to black berries that are eaten fresh or used in jams/jellies and desserts. The berries contain vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health, immune function, and digestion. Blackberry plants are hardy and can grow in various climates, from Zones 3-9. They can tolerate colder temperatures in Zones 3-5, but winter protection may be needed. Depending on the variety, these plants grow as brambles with thorny or thornless canes. The canes are biennial, meaning they live for two years—one year for growth and the second year for fruiting. Typically, they are 3 to 10 feet tall, with canes that either trail along the ground or stand upright. Blackberries require full sun to produce the optimum fruit yield and prefer well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter. Blackberries need consistent moisture, especially during their first year and while they are fruiting. Water them deeply once a week, providing about 1–2 inches of water, depending on rainfall.  Pruning is essential for blackberry plants. After the fruiting canes (second-year canes) have finished producing berries, they should be pruned down to the ground. The bushes can live up to ten years and are self-fruitful, meaning you only need to plant one cultivar. Five or six plants generally produce enough berries for four individuals. Blackberry Plant Care Your Guide to Sweet, Juicy Harvests Blackberries produce white or pink five-petaled flowers in the late spring or early summer. The flowers are attractive to bees, which are crucial for pollination. After pollination, the flowers evolve into clusters of small drupelets that form the blackberry. The fruit is technically an aggregate fruit comprising multiple small, juicy segments containing seeds. The berries ripen mid to late summer, turning from green to red and eventually black when fully ripe. A sunny, well-drained garden bed is ideal for your home garden. Plant along fences or in a designated berry patch with enough space. Trailing blackberry varieties do well along fences or on trellises, where you can easily train the canes for support. Blackberries can be planted in rows in larger spaces- such as a berry farm, allowing for easy harvesting and maintenance. The plants should not be planted where potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants have been previously grown. These particular plants often host a fungus called Verticillium, which can cause blackberries to experience root rot. Why the Blackberry Plant is a Must-Have for Every Garden Your blackberry plants should produce abundant, delicious fruit for years in a location with plenty of sunlight, good drainage, and proper spacing.

Blazing Star

Blazing Star A Stunning Native Wildflower for Vibrant Gardens Blazing Star (Liatris spicata), also known as Gayfeather or Dense Blazing Star, is a beautiful perennial plant known for its tall, spiky flower clusters that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Planting bare root Blazing Star is a great way to add vibrant color and texture to your garden. Here’s how to plant and care for them: Characteristics Family: Asteraceae Height: Typically grows 2-4 feet tall Flowers: Purple, pink, or white, arranged in dense spikes Leaves: Narrow, grass-like leaves How to Grow and Care for Blazing Star in Your Landscape Timing: Plant bare root Blazing Stars in early spring or fall. Location: Choose a sunny location. Blazing Stars thrive in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. They prefer sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Preparation: Soak the bare roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them. Planting Depth: Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding. Plant with the crown just below the soil surface. Spacing: Space plants about 12-15 inches apart to allow for growth. Care and Maintenance Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist until the plants are established. Once established, Blazing Stars are relatively drought-tolerant. Mulching: Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilizing: Generally, Blazing Stars do not require much fertilization. If desired, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back the foliage to the ground in late fall or early spring. Benefits Aesthetic: Adds striking vertical interest and vibrant color to garden beds and borders. Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Low Maintenance: Once established, they require minimal care. Potential Issues Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or rust. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues. Overwatering: Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot and other water-related problems. Blazing Star Benefits Pollinator Magnet and Low-Maintenance Beauty Flower Beds and Borders: Adds height and color to mixed flower beds and borders. Wildflower Gardens: Ideal for naturalized and prairie-style gardens. Cut Flowers: Excellent for cut flower arrangements due to their long-lasting blooms. Blazing Star blooms from July to August, which makes it ideal because many spring and early summer bloomers tend to look quite drab after their early blooming period.Many people love to grow three or four in a decorative pot. An excellent garden idea is to make a complete path of the plants in your backyard using decorative pots. Another advantage to the plants is that if you have a lot of deer around, they tend not to be interested in eating these plants.

Bloodroot

How to Grow and Care for Bloodroot Plants in Your Garden Bloodroot, known explicitly as Sanguinaria canadensis, is a paradoxical little flower. It is also called redroot, bloodwort, red puccoon, Indian red paint, sang-dragon, snakebite, and a dozen others based on minute region variations. It is found in eastern North America and is the only species in its genus. Is it the closest relative? Snow poppies are found only in China. The species appears with a wide variety of shapes in its leaves and white, yellow-centered flowers, but its juice is always bright scarlet, hence its name. The Benefits of Adding Bloodroot to Your Native Plant Garden Yet this same property means sanguinaria is being investigated as a cancer treatment. Investigations are inconclusive, but it's been used in alternative medicine for a long history. Red juice means it can be used as a paint or dye, and even today, it's a commercially used food additive. Bloodroot's Seeds The bloodroot is also prized in specific capacities by gardeners. Double-flowered mutations are especially showy and last longer than the few days average for sanguinaria flowers. They're considered lovely shade plants blooming in spring and look at home in woodland-like gardens and landscapes. Though their bloom time is short, the plants are relatively easy to collect seeds from, making them fun and easy to propagate, and they'll flower for years with little care. However, it needs to be handled carefully in the garden due to the properties of the juice of its leaves and roots. Everything You Need to Know About Bloodroot's Light and Soil Preferences Bloodroot is surprisingly renowned as an experimental homeopathic cancer treatment despite microscopic studies having been applied to its efficacy. It's most commonly associated with treating skin tumors, harkening back to its history of being used to treat skin conditions. However, when it comes to treating severe conditions, this plant is likely best left off the table in favor of proven remedies. As an odd treatment for moles and skin tags, it seems unlikely to vacate the pages of herbalists' books soon.