For many people, Christmas decorating is not complete without a beautiful poinsettia from Behnke Nurseries. Over the years, Behnke’s has literally sold millions of poinsettias, but, where did “wild” poinsettias come from in the first place? To trace the…
I may get called an “experienced gardener” but I’m no plant snob and I actually prefer the more common plants. They’re usually cheaper and easier, and I like trying to use them in unique ways. Plus, if they’re annuals,…
Click here to find out everything you need to know about gardening in September in this region, from the experts at Behnkes and the University of Maryland, too. It’s a BIG month for garden, especially for improving your lawn and…
Randy’s done it again, with great tips and a touch of humor in the title. Oh, and we suspect a touch of sarcasm at the very end when he urges us to enjoy “this beautiful weather we’re having now”. Ha!
It’s an age-old question – to feed or not to feed the wild songbirds that come so willingly to our yards in the cold of winter. Some people believe that feeding wild birds can cause more harm than good and…
To win these two very cool books, just leave a comment to this blog story and we’ll choose a winner at random. Entries close midnight Sunday, August 21 (2011). The winner can pick up the books at either Behnkes location…
In the East, the only type of hummingbird we have all summer, I’m told, is the ruby-throated type. They’re very territorial, so to attract more than one you may need to use several feeders 30 feet apart, out of sight…
Why Grow a Butterfly Garden? To help preserve these beloved insects, whose habitat areas are fast disappearing. Watching them is fun and educational in a way that connects you and your kids to nature. It’s a giant step toward getting…
Ever noticed a sign that says “Certified Wildlife Habitat Backyard”? It means the homeowners are providing the essentials for wildlife: food, a reliable source of water, cover (like a rock pile), and places to raise young (like large shrubs or…
American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) is a woody, twining, deciduous vine that has lavender pendulous blooms in spring and needs sturdy support. Compared to Asian wisterias, this one is less vigorous, so a better choice for small gardens, and has smaller…
Virburnum rudum ‘Winterthur’ is loved for its just-right size (to 5 or so feet tall and wide), perfect shape, and gorgeous fall color, berries included. The species is native to all of the Eastern U.S. Oh, about those berries. Turns…
I couldn’t resist this stately conifer of the East, and have five in my garden. One of a very small group of conifers that tolerate shade, it’s also threatened by a virulent Asian insect that I’m happy to report can…