Where do new perennials come from? Many are grown in tissue culture by specialty growers. One that we worked with a lot when we were growing perennials at Behnke’s was Terra Nova Nurseries, in Oregon. They have an extensive breeding program for…
Today, while putting this email together, I thought about Valentine’s Day coming up. It was fun at Behnke’s when Evelyn, our Florist Shop manager, would have all the roses and carnations arrive so everyone could start putting bouquets together. She…
It’s winter, and I’ve been having “snowbird” thoughts of times spent in warmer climates. One photo is from Bangkok, Thailand. It was not only warm, it was very hot and humid, and this from a guy who was living in Maryland…
One would have thought I would have had a Peace Lily after all these years. But one would be wrong. I am the one Behnke with a brown thumb, which is not from planting. Years ago, after killing so many…
This week, one of Behnke’s Best, Steve Gerwin, who worked at the Beltsville location in the 1970s (and possibly the 80s), shared a wonderful memory on our Behnke Alumni page. I wanted to share it with all of you because…
I’ve published this before, but hope you all don’t mind seeing it again. This photo was taken December 3, 2001, in my Maryland back yard. And no, it’s not photoshopped, it’s not AI, etc. Well, maybe cropped a little…
Over the years, I have written many times about my father in law, Marshall Fleming. I have been blessed to live next door to my in-laws for most of my marriage and it has been wonderful. I grew up next…
I’ve been thinking of how fast time passes. I’m at the age when I go to more funerals than weddings, and I was sad to hear about the recent death of Stephanie’s Father-In-Law, Marshall. As a gardener, I was thinking…
Everyone has that one cherished Christmas ornament – the one that captures the essence of the holiday season or holds a special sentimental value. Old World Christmas features a collection of over 1700 spectacular Christmas ornaments. Have you ever wondered how…
Snow in the Washington, DC area! Alert the Press! Rest assured, the Press has been alerted and we out here in snowless (at least at our house) Wisconsin know all about your recent snowfall. This is a good time to…
Santa brought me SNOW BOOTS! Boy, I was excited that he thought ahead and picked these nice warm boots back in the fall. With the snowfall this week, I have been pretending with my grandkids that I love snow. I…
As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to wish you all the joys of the season. Merry Christmas to those celebrating, and to everyone, may this special time of year bring peace, warmth, and…