The Perennial Plant Association has selected Dianthus gratianopolitanus Firewitch’ (Feuerhexe’) as its 2006 Perennial Plant of the Year. Also known as a cheddar pink, the perennial dianthus is an excellent choice for use as an edging plant, as a rock garden specimen, to soften retaining walls, and in container gardens. Firewitch’ has hot pink flowers that bloom profusely in mid to late spring, with some repeat bloom in summer and fall if you deadhead faded […]

It’s not unusual for Indiana weather to have trouble deciding what season it is. Recent warm spells have had many gardeners wondering what to do about bulbs — and, perhaps, a few other plants that are poking their foliage through the soil. As I write this article, temperatures started out in the 50s and are expected to drop to the upper 20s by tonight! Just what should gardeners do about daffodils, dianthus and daylilies poking […]

While a thick blanket of winter snow might keep even diehard gardeners out of yard work for now, a visit to one of the many Midwestern glasshouse gardens may help you get your plant fix. In addition to seasonal plant displays, many of these gardens offer classes, art exhibits and other ways to beat the winter doldrums. Indianapolis: White River Gardens, 317-630-3252 Visit the “Holiday Trainland” exhibit in the Hilbert Conservatory through Dec. 30. The […]

Gardeners are often quick to blame insects or infectious disease when their plants develop leaf spots. But, in many cases — especially with houseplants — those spots may be due to environment and cultural practices. House plants that experience extremes in soil moisture often develop spots on their leaves, called “oedema” (sometimes spelled “edema”). The spots may first appear as a blister or raised spot, particularly on the undersides of leaves, but may occur on […]

Being creative when choosing containers for your houseplants can add to the decor of a room, but make sure the pot is appropriate for the plant. Almost any container can be used for potting plants, as long as drainage of excess water is provided. Water and mineral nutrients are primarily taken into the plant through the roots. For most plant species, roots must have some oxygen in order to grow and function. If the soil […]

If you’re itching to get outdoors and work on your garden, now’s a good time to survey your landscape and decide what needs pruning. But keep in mind that not all plants need to be trimmed. Landscape plants should be pruned to maintain or reduce their size, to remove undesirable growth, to remove dead or damaged branches, and to rejuvenate older plants to produce more vigorous foliage, flowers and fruits. In some cases, pruning is […]

Gardenias have a well-earned reputation for being difficult specimens for even the experienced indoor gardener. Gardenias thrive on bright light, high humidity, and an even supply of moisture and nutrients. When gardenias are freshly delivered from a greenhouse grower, their glossy leaves and heavenly-scented blooms just about cause the plant to leap into your arms, whether a gift for yourself or for a loved-one. But, then, the plant enters the home environment where hot, dry […]