Mopheads, snowballs and lacecaps are funny names for flowers but very descriptive of the different types of Hydrangea they describe. An old-fashioned favorite and perennial garden staple, hydrangeas are a flowering shrub with attractive foliage and large, showy flowers. Flower heads are composed of dozens of tiny, 4-petaled florets that grow in a variety of shapes -- sphere, panicle or flat – depending on variety. While America does have native hydrangea species, the large-blossomed plants that first captured the interest of 19th century gardeners were imported from Japan and China where hydrangeas were not only prized for their beautiful flowers and lush green foliage, but were also used to brew a sweet herbal tea.  ...read more

After her dress, the selection of her wedding flowers is the most important decision a bride makes when planning her wedding day. Wedding flowers reflect and enhance the bride’s wedding theme and colors and set the mood for the wedding celebration -- romantic, joyful, cheerful, whimsical, traditional or flamboyant.  ...read more

Many indoor plants thrive outside during the warm summer months. Potted indoor plants make delightful additions to patio groupings and deck plantings. As soon as spring nights warm up, most gardeners make the effort to give indoor plants a taste of fresh air and sunshine over the summer. But now that nights are becoming cooler and trees are beginning to drop their leaves, it’s time to reverse the process and bring indoor plants back inside before fall’s first killing frost arrives. Move plants indoors gradually so temperature changes do not shock the plants. Move containers from garden settings to unheated sheltered areas like your garage or screened porch for a few days before bringing them indoors. ...read more

As fall comes closer, migrating birds will start winging their way south to warmer climates. The first Vs of Canada geese have already split Midwestern skies. Quite a few birds, however, spend their winters in Midwestern and northern states. As unlikely as it seems, among our native winter dwellers will be some birds that have traveled south from their chilly summer habitats in the northern wilds of Canada to spend their winters in the relative warmth of the snowy Midwest. ...read more

When houses go on the market, realtors encourage home sellers to improve their home’s curb appeal. Real estate agents know that a house that looks attractive from the curb will attract a greater number of potential buyers. Good curb appeal is something every home owner should strive for. You want to be proud of the way your house looks as visitors walk up to your front door. Why wait until you sell your home to spruce up its street-side exterior? Add plants to the front of your home now and you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor for years to come. ...read more

Fall is already turning the garden brown and brittle, but you can continue to enjoy the lush greenery and fragrant blooms of your summer garden by moving favorite plants indoors. Some plants can be planted in large decorative pots and moved inside in stages to allow them to adjust to the warmer indoor climate.  ...read more