Exploring the Beauty of the Himalayan Pine
Introduction Pinus wallichiana, commonly known as the Himalayan Pine or Bhutan Pine, is a magnificent coniferous tree. One of the best specimens I have seen in person is located at Swarthmore College, outside of Philadelphia, PA. The tree graces the area
Growing Delectable Sea Kale in the Kitchen Garden
Story My first experience with growing delectable Sea kale in the kitchen garden was at Gravetye Manor. In early spring I noticed several gorgeous terracotta pots neatly arranged in one of the vegetable beds. For some reason though, they were upside-
The most Outstanding Witch Hazels for your Winter Garden
If you are looking for the most outstanding Witch Hazels for your winter garden that add sweet scents and vibrant colors to dreary winter landscapes, you have come to the right place. The genus name, Hamamelis, means "together with fruit", referring
Maintaining Tradition; A Boxwood Story
The long awaited Main Fountain Garden at Longwood Gardens is set to reopen in Spring of 2017. Meticulous care has been taken to restore the garden to its original splendor. Although certain aspects have been changed, the goal of the
These Dainty Rock Garden Iris Put on a Big Show
These dainty Rock Garden Iris put on a big show during the late winter. Perhaps not a big show, but their striking violet flowers with contrasting yellow crest are a delight to see. The beautiful flowers coupled with their mild
5 Trees with Stunning Bark you Might not Know About
1. Stewartia pseudocamillia Japanese Stewartia Bark These 5 trees with stunning bark you might not know about are sure to add a beautiful design element to your garden and landscape. Stewartia pseudocamellia gets my top vote. It is a small to medium-sized
Cornelian Cherry – Cornus mas
Story Before you go planting that Forsythia everyone in the neighborhood has, consider another early spring yellow flowering shrub, the Cornelian Cherry. Cornus mas will provide some diversity to your spring planting scheme with long-lasting blooms from late February until mid-April.
Growing Artichoke in the Kitchen Garden
Background Although many people are familiar with the taste of artichokes, it seems few are aware of the beautiful plant that produces this delectable food. While tending to the garden at Hagley Museum and Library, I would overhear the tour guides
Polianthes tuberosa
Description These beautiful flowers were the subject matter of van Gogh's 'Vase with carnations and other flowers' in 1886. Despite the title of the painting, Polianthes tuberosa takes center stage in this homage to the impressionist painters of his era. They
Relinquishing Control; The Birth of the Wild Garden
Nature is often our greatest teacher. It reveals simple truths that can provide guidance to complex situations we face throughout our lives. Philosophers and scholars have looked to nature for inspiration throughout our history. Scientists and engineers have created amazing modern