Show Date: 13 Jul 09

You’ve planned, purchased and planted now you wait for those trees, shrubs or perennials to pop. 

There’s a garden adage that goes “The first year they sleep, the second year they creep and the third year they leap.” 

Those roots need time to establish, stretch out their legs, so to speak, and develop deeper connections to the soil.  So, when you’re waiting for your plantings to look like the ones in the magazine, have patience, the third year’s the charm!

Show Date: 23 Jun 09

So weeding’s not your bag, then plant these perennials pack a weed blocking punch: “Emerald Blue” moss phlox, “Thriller” lady’s mantle, “Walker’s Low” catmint, “Herman’s Pride” false lamium and “Golden Fleece” dwarf goldenrod. All of these are spreaders (read invasive) and they have dense leaf cover.

Emerald blue moss phlox.

Show Date: 03 Jun 09

This is a naturally occurring soil bacteria that acts as stomach poison for some pests. Colorado State University has the rest of the story:

• Bacillus thuringiensis [University of Colorado Extension]

The most pet/kid/earth friendly way to take out the bad bugs is by planting a diverse group of trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals that attract the good guys. Diversify your landscape to attract those beneficial bugs! Below are just a few suggestions; there are many more.

Adding flowering shrubs and trees will also attract those good bugs! Pussy Willows, Fothergilla, Dogwoods, Viburnums, and Crabapple.