Looking for an easy-to-grow herb? Try thyme. It’s decorative and functional, great for dried arrangements, for kitchen creations, and even for medicinal uses. Native throughout the Mediterranean, thyme is a subshrub perennial that loves sun, and dry, well-drained soil. A member of the mint family, there are hundreds of varieties of thyme, but only six…
There’s something magical about morning glories and moonflowers. Their beautiful green leaves climb and climb, while their blooms come and go with the rising of the sun or the fall of darkness. Cousins of sweet potatoes, these climbers will extend their tendrils to whatever is available – trellis, fence, or post. They can reach six…
The enchanting Sweet Pea ? what does it bring to mind? The song lyrics, ?Oh, Sweet Pea, c?mon and dance with me . . .?, perhaps the darling baby Sweet Pea with Popeye and Olive Oyl, or even a term of endearment in your own home. What could inspire this token of affection? The lovely…
Your daffodils and tulips will bloom in the Spring, but Spring seems a long way off in the cold months of Winter. To satisfy your desire to bring bulbs to bloom, plant some Paperwhites. With a simple planting medium and a little water, in 4-6 weeks you’ll have clusters of miniature Narcissi greeting you with…
With many varieties to choose from and countless uses in the kitchen, basil is a favorite. Native to Asia, Africa, Central America and South America, basil, a member of the mint family, has been used for thousands of years by several cultures. Such lengthy cultivation has produced over forty varieties including cinnamon, clove, lemon, and…
Experience the desert and the jungle in half an hour – visit the United States Botanic Garden. Recently renovated, this conservatory features a wide variety of permanent plant collections as well as special exhibits. History of the U.S. Botanic Garden The USBG is one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America. George Washington, James…
If you love gardens, visit Monticello. Thomas Jefferson was passionate about plants. His two orchards boasted 170 fruit varieties. In his 1000-foot-long vegetable garden, Jefferson cultivated over 330 varieties. And, of course, Jefferson included lovely flower walkways and flowering shrubs in the grounds of Monticello. The Gardens Thomas Jefferson grew 105 (plus or minus) species…
Look closely and you’ll find Greek among your favorites plants, especially flowers. It’s true that we recognize ancient Greeks more for their contributions to language, architecture, art, and government than gardening. However with such a lovely Mediterranean climate, floral life naturally abounds in Greece, making their contribution through mythology and names natural. Amaryllis The Amaryllis…
