Spring is when we usually think of planting new plants. After a long harsh winter, it’s a time of new beginnings and new life and little leaves are starting to sprout out of the ground its time to figure out what you want to plant in your garden this year and get started! However, there are a select few plants that are better suited to be planted in the fall than in the spring, let’s take a … [Read more...]
July 29, 2019 By
Drought-Tolerant Plants for Hudson Valley Gardens
As July fades to August and the sun continues to bake your backyard, you might be feeling a little lackluster about your garden. But don’t despair! We've put together a shortlist of some our favorite full-sun, drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials. Adding a couple of these low-maintenance summer gem will ensure your garden stays colorful all year long. Perennials CoreopsisBright … [Read more...]
June 20, 2019 By
Astilbe – Plant Profile
A pink variety of Astilbe, a shade tolerant blooming perennial hardy to New York state. Other Names: False Goat's Beard, False SpireaCommon Varieties: Astilbe 'Fanal' (dark red flowers); 'Visions' (red pink), 'Bridal Veil' (white).Hardiness Zones: Typically zones 4-8, but some varieties are hardy in zones 3-9. If you've ever researched shade gardens, you've probably come across astilbe! … [Read more...]
August 7, 2018 By
Hardy Hibiscus – Plant Profile
What does the word Hibiscus bring to mind for you? Waves, sand, surf? You probably think of somewhere warm and tropical, like Hawaii. Fun fact: you can bring some of those tropical vibes into your own yard, because here in New York, we have Hardy Hibiscus. Hardy Hibiscus grow on upright stems that can reach up to 6' in height. In late July and August, they bloom massive flowers that are … [Read more...]
June 21, 2018 By
Beneficial Insects in the Garden
It’s that time of year again: aphids, sawfly larvae, scale insects, and other bugs are appearing all over your garden. But along with these pests come beneficial garden insects that help to control - and sometimes take care of entirely - the populations of garden pests. So hold off on the neem oil or other insecticidal soaps until you know what you're looking at! Ladybugs Adult … [Read more...]
November 6, 2017 By
Pruning in the Fall Like a Pro
It’s that time of year. Your perennials are past bloom, your trees are dropping leaves. Getting your garden ready for the oncoming winter months might seem a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a quick break down on pruning and other winter prep tasks. Pruning Perennials Once your perennials are past bloom, you can prune whenever. Prune them right on down to the ground. Don’t … [Read more...]
August 16, 2017 By
Stone Crop – Plant Profile
Other Names: Succulents, Sedum "Stone Crop" refers to a family of perennial, flowering plants in the succulent family. You might have also heard them called sedum. Both of these are broad terms for plants that come in literally all shapes, colors, and sizes. What all these plants have in common, however, is their hardiness. While they're popular as potted plants, stone crop is actually a … [Read more...]
May 25, 2017 By
Yarrow – Plant Profile
Achillea Millefolium Common Names: Yarrow, Milefoil Common Varieties: “Paprika” (red), “Appleblossom” (pink), “Coronation Gold” (golden yellow), “Gypsy White” (white), “Peachy Peach Sensation” (peach). Description: Yarrow is a flowering perennial featuring tight, flat clusters of bright flowers atop long green stems. The flowers themselves range in color from white to deep red, with … [Read more...]
June 7, 2016 By
Planting a Pollinator Garden
June is National Pollinator Month! What's a pollinator? A pollinator is any animal that helps move pollen from one plant to another, aiding in fertilization and propagation. The most famous pollinator is the bee, but there are plenty of others, including butterflies, moths, beetles, bats, and many birds (especially hummingbirds!) Pollinators are vital to the natural environment, as well as the … [Read more...]
