For many Americans, Fourth of July is synonymous with fireworks. But for gardeners, the pyrotechnics start early. That’s because by mid June, spring pastels are already giving way to explosive color as red, white and blue flowers begin lighting up the summer garden. Continue reading
Monarda, or bee balm, is a spectacular plant when grown under the right conditions. With plenty of sun and well-draining soil, it will flower from mid to late summer. That said, the plant has an annoying predisposition to powdery mildew that can make it an eyesore in the garden. So, recently researchers at Delaware’s Mt. Cuba Center set out to identify which varieties offer the best resistance. Continue reading
There’s nothing like a shot of hot color to add sizzle to your landscape. In mid summer, red, orange and yellow flowers sing out in the sun, instantly invigorating spring’s soft pastel palette. Creating a hot color scheme is easy providing you don’t overdo it. The key is to balance hot-toned plants with cool ones so that they don’t overpower the garden. Continue reading
