Tomatoes are vines, so it’s natural to grow them up. This not only saves garden space but also keeps plants healthy. Tomato diseases live in the soil. Fruit rotting on the ground invites slugs. And wouldn’t you rather eat that tomato than accidentally step on it? How do we grow up? Here are a few ideas. BUY … Read more
Native plants often have a reputation for being “aggressive”, “thuggish”, or “weedy”. Sometimes this reputation is earned. Common milkweed, for example, is great for monarchs, but can be a real pain for a gardener to try to control (only plant this particular variety if you have lots of space and an informal style!). And it … Read more
So, you’ve been considering container gardening. Let’s think a bit more specifically about what it takes to create a spectacular pot. You don’t need professional help or specialty plants—Just take a walk down the aisles of your favorite garden center this spring and choose wisely. Plan the structure of your pot. The easiest way is … Read more
This isn’t exactly a job offer, but we do need your help. Today begins our plant sale which takes the place of our annual plant auction. We have NO income for our club; all fund raising was halted by the pandemic and we won’t even have dues since everyone took advantage of the two-years-for-one pricing. … Read more
“Hardening Off” is the process of allowing plants to adjust from pampered conditions indoors to the harsher conditions outdoors. Seedlings especially need to adjust slowly to the harsh full sun, night temperatures, rains and winds. If you do not allow your plants to adjust slowly, the shock from being placed outdoors all at once may cause … Read more
Transplanting a plant into the garden soil is a fairly easy task. Items you will need include a trowel (or shovel for larger plants), compost soil, starter fertilizer and water. These steps are geared to planting a perennial, but the same is true for an annual plant. Let’s look at this project step by step: … Read more
Our plant auction is back AND going virtual with an online sale this year! Plant Sale — MAY 11 – June 8 Spring is here! Plants are popping their heads out everywhere and screaming to be divided. Since our annual auction remains on hold, how about a REAL plant sale held virtually on IDGC’s Plant … Read more
Want to go Native? Are you ready to plant some native plants, but aren’t sure where to start? Here are some beautiful native plant alternatives to common nursery plants. Instead of: Forsythia — try Spicebush (lindera benzoin) instead! This beautiful shrub has yellow blooms in early spring before leafing out. The leaves and stems are very … Read more
I would have to say spring has officially sprung in my backyard. I can see ducks in the little creek that flows when it rains. The snow has melted and the warmth of the sun has given way to so many native plants starting to unfurl their leaves and reach out to touch the sun. … Read more
Trees and shrubs are not growing and dormant so it’s the best time to prune. You are doing easy, manageable pruning. Leave the extensive, large scale pruning to later in the season or to an expert (arborist). Good pruning keeps your trees and shrubs attractive, healthy and less susceptible to injury or disease. What to … Read more