We all know how trying it can be to grow fruit trees successfully in zone 7. Our weather patterns can be quite unpredictable at times, making it difficult to maintain a steady yield year after year. But fear not! In this article we will explore valuable tips to keep in mind when growing fruit trees in our zone. There is surprisingly a lot of variety when it comes to the […]
By: Avery Meyers Driving through neighborhoods in DC and Northern Virginia, you will notice beautifully trained ivies and roses along walls and lattices, wisteria covering arbors, and vinca covering garden beds. Vines fill many important needs in landscaping and can be stunning when placed thoughtfully and well maintained. However, these incredible plants can have a detrimental effect on a property when used improperly or ignored. There are many diverse types […]
by Casey Beall With many people looking to find natural ways to repel pests and bugs, different plants have been researched and proven to repel different species. There are five common plants that are very popular in repelling insects. Pelargonium ‘Citronella’ Geranium repels mosquitos like any outdoor candle that contains citronella would do. When the plant is damaged, cut or bruised, a strong scent is released into the air. Many […]
By: Elena Roman You go to the local nursery to buy a few perennials to fill in the garden bed in your front yard. You find what you like, you go home, plant them in the ground, and give them a good soak with the hose. You already know the bed has the appropriate sunlight for these specific plants, but you feel less certain about how much water they will […]
By: Andrew Obloy Integrated Pest Management (IPM) can be complicated and broad, to say the least. Essentially, it is a program to manage pests, but it is also so much more. Here are some ways we can use IPM to help keep your properties healthy and beautiful: Our use of IPM begins in spring, applying fertilizer to both plants and turf. Fertilizer ensures plants receive the nutrients they need for […]
By: Ash Green Proper plant placement plays an essential role in landscape design. It is a compromise between the science of growing plants and the desire for artistic expression with plants. It is also important to note the abundant environmental benefits associated with proper plant placement. For example, tree placement has a significant role in energy conservation. Winter sun that enters south facing windows can heat your home effectively. Evergreen […]
By Samantha Wright It is freezing cold outside, there are no leaves on the trees and not a flower in sight. Yet you see our gardeners in your landscape, looking up in the trees pruning with extended poles. Later in the day, our heads are in the shrubs continuing pruning. What is the point, is this really the right time? In the middle of winter? Do not be fooled by […]
By: Andrew Obloy We should all do our best to help our native plant species thrive. Whether in the environment around us, or in our own home gardens. Care should always be taken when introducing non-native plant or animal species anywhere. The potential damage could be catastrophic to an ecosystem. Today we are going in a different direction. I want to talk about the invasive species that have […]
By: Andrew Obloy Our native plants are amazing. They are here for a reason, and we should use them as much as we can in our own landscapes. That being said, not all non-natives should get a bad rap. For many, the word invasive feels synonymous with non-native. I will always encourage the use of native plants in your own garden, but I don’t think we should look at all […]
Written By: Elena Roman The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is undoubtedly one of the most witnessed wildlife we interact with in our American existence. Come fall, as vegetation dwindles, depleting food sources in wooded areas, deer are forced to search for food in places they otherwise would feel insecure (as you can probably notice by your mauled or nonexistent Hostas). More recently, this shift has become particularly evident as deer […]
