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Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Lady Banks Rose


Lady Banks Yellow Rose

Rosa banksiae 'Lutae'

Photo taken March 26, 2010. Beautiful presentation, little aroma, this rose will only bloom once this year. The show, though, is spectacular. BE SURE TO CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE.


The Lady Banks Yellow Rose, Yellow Banksia, Rosa banksiae 'Lutea'

Rosa banksiae, typically called the Lady Banks' Rose, truly a species of Rosa indigenous to central and western China, they will grow in the mountains located at altitudes of 1700 feet.

It's a rushing shrubby liana developing intensely more than other shrubs to 3.5 ft. high. Contrary to many roses, it really is almost thornless, although might have a few prickles up to 5 millimeters long, especially upon stout, sturdy limbs. The leaves are generally evergreen, 5 to 7 cm long, along with 3 to 5 leaflets 2-5 cm long which has a serrated perimeter. The plants are compact, 2 to 3 cm in diameter, white-colored or soft yellow.


There are 2 types:

Rosa banksiae var. Flowers are semi-double or double, along with several petals exchanging many or the many stamens; a cultigen created inside the Chinese home gardens.

Rosa banksiae var. normalis Regel. Blossoms are single, with 5 petals; the pure wild type of the species.

The rose is given its name after Lady Banks, a wife of the prestigious botanist Sir Joseph Banks.

Cultivation and functions

Rosa banksiae has probably been evolved in the gardens of China for centuries. The species had been unveiled in European countries by William Kerr, who was directed on the plant-hunting trip by Sir Joseph. He acquired the very first Lady Banks' Rose, eventually called the 'white Lady Banks' coming from the well-known Chinese Fa Tee nursery in 1807. The quantity of additional types were eventually found developing in China, The white, small flowered R. banksiae var. normalis is actually regarded as the "wild" kind; 'banksiae Lutea', the 'yellow Lady Banks' Rose, possibly the most well-liked and R. banksiae 'Lutescens', the rose with gentle yellow blooms. All of Lady Banks' roses are generally claimed to smell of violets to various amounts.

Usually will be 6-8 ft.(1.8-2.4 m) but will get to much more.

Have been claimed to be growing from USDA Zone 6a to USDA Zone 11.

Propagation Methods are from softwood and semi-hardwood cuttings, by grafting and budding.

Even though it flowers for just a couple of weeks in early spring, the creamy clusters of scentless, double yellow-colored or white-colored blossoms almost cover the plant. Almost evergreen and thornless, it is very energetic.

Amazon can provide any need for Lady Banks Rose (#ad). ( I will receive compensation if you buy).

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Wildflowers


The yellow wildflowers give off a honey aroma-intoxicating!


Wildflowers in southcentral Texas. Just south of San Antonio, Tx. Picture taken March 10, 2010. We have been overcome with the aroma of honey with these wildflowers. I have added several photos taken at the same time. These grow right up to my house.

Please click on photo to enlarge

This is taken at my front yard.


Each wildflower (or wild flower) is really a flower which grows in the wild, which suggests that it was never deliberately seeded or selected and planted. However "wildflower" fields of several blended varieties can be bought in seed packages. The word "wildflower" is made hazy by professional seedsmen that have an interest in marketing much more flowers or seed products more expensively compared to whenever tagged with just its name and/or source. The word means the plant most likely is not a hybrid or a chosen cultivar which is by any means not the same as the way in which it seems like in the wild like a native plant, quite possibly when it is growing where it might not normally.

Native plant is often a name to explain plants endemic (indigenous) or naturalized to some offered region in a geologic period.For example plants which have produced, happen naturally, or been with us for several years in an location.

A few native plants get modified to restricted, uncommon surroundings or really severe environments or extraordinary soil conditions. Even though some kinds of plants for these reasons occur just inside a limited range (by virtue of originating or occurring naturally), some could live in varied places or by adaptation to various surroundings.

Amazon can provide any need for Wildflowers (#ad). ( I will receive compensation if you buy).

Bluebonnets and Phlox



These gorgeous wildflowers come every year here in the San Antonio, Texas area. This is springtime in my front yard.

Synonyms of bluebonnets:lupine,lupin,Texas bluebonnet,Lupinus subcarnosus.

BLUEBONNETS

As we step into spring, it is time to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds us. From blooming flowers to chirping birds, the season of new beginnings is upon us. And in Texas, one cannot talk about spring without mentioning Bluebonnets.

Bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas, is a sight to behold. The vibrant blue hues of the flower, coupled with the green foliage, make for a beautiful landscape. If you are a gardener, you may be interested in learning how to grow bluebonnets in your garden. In this email, we will explore the world of Bluebonnets, from its history to cultivation techniques.

History of Bluebonnets

The first recorded encounter of Bluebonnets was by Spanish explorers in the 1700s. The flower, with its blue petals and white tips, caught the attention of the explorers, and soon it became the symbol of Texas. Bluebonnets are also known as Lupinus texensis, a member of the Lupinus family of plants.

Cultivation of Bluebonnets

The best time to plant Bluebonnets is in the fall. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and water them well. Bluebonnets prefer full sun and can tolerate heat, drought, and poor soil conditions. However, make sure to keep the soil moist during the germination process.

Bluebonnets require little maintenance once established. You can deadhead the flowers to promote new growth, but it is not necessary. The plants will self-seed and come back year after year, creating a beautiful landscape.

Benefits of Bluebonnets

Apart from their beauty, Bluebonnets have several benefits. They are a source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The flowers also attract other beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on harmful pests. Bluebonnets also help to prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bluebonnets are a must-have for any gardener. The flowers not only add beauty to your landscape but also provide several benefits. From their history to cultivation, we have covered all aspects of Bluebonnets in this email. So, why not add a touch of Texas to your garden this spring and grow some Bluebonnets?

Happy Gardening! Amazon can provide any need for Bluebonnets (#ad). ( I will receive compensation if you buy).

PHLOX

Phlox is a genus of flowering plants that includes a wide variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics and beauty. From the vibrant colors of the garden phlox to the delicate blooms of the woodland phlox, there's a phlox for every garden.

But phlox isn't just a pretty face - it's also an incredibly versatile and hardy plant. Depending on the species, phlox can thrive in a variety of growing conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and from moist to dry soils. And with a little bit of care and attention, phlox can provide years of beauty to your garden.

So why should you consider adding phlox to your garden? Here are just a few reasons:

Vibrant colors: Whether you prefer bold pinks and reds or more subdued blues and purples, there's a phlox for you. Many species of phlox also have variegated or multi-colored blooms, adding even more interest to your garden.

Attracts pollinators: Phlox is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden.

Easy to grow: While some species of phlox require specific growing conditions, many are adaptable and easy to care for.

Long blooming period: Depending on the species, phlox can bloom for several weeks or even months at a time, providing a long-lasting display of color in your garden.

Low maintenance: While phlox does require regular watering and fertilization, it generally doesn't require much pruning or other maintenance.

Now, let's dive into some of the different types of phlox you might want to consider for your garden:

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata): This is probably the most well-known type of phlox, and for good reason. Garden phlox comes in a wide range of colors, from pure white to deep purple, and can grow up to 4 feet tall. It's also relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil types.

Woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata): As the name suggests, this type of phlox prefers shady, wooded areas. It has delicate, lavender-blue flowers that bloom in early spring, making it a great choice for adding color to a woodland garden.

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata): This low-growing phlox is perfect for groundcover or rock gardens. It has small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, and can spread up to 2 feet wide.

Drummond's phlox (Phlox drummondii): This annual phlox is native to Texas and can be found in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white. It's a great choice for adding color to a summer garden.

Of course, there are many more species of phlox out there, each with its own unique beauty. The best way to decide which phlox is right for your garden is to do some research and talk to other gardeners who have experience growing phlox.

So what do you need to know to grow phlox successfully? Here are a few tips:

Soil: Phlox prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.

Watering: Phlox needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to water deeply and regularly, but don't let the soil become waterlogged.

Fertilization: Phlox benefits from regular fertilization, especially during its growing season. Use a organic fertilizer for flowering plants.

Pruning: Most species of phlox benefit from regular deadheading to encourage more blooms. You can also cut back the stems of taller phlox to prevent them from becoming too leggy.

Pest and disease control: Phlox can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including powdery mildew and spider mites. Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble and treat as necessary.

Overall, phlox is a wonderful addition to any garden. With its vibrant colors, long blooming period, and ability to attract pollinators, it's no wonder why phlox is such a popular choice among gardeners. So why not give it a try in your own garden?

Happy planting! Amazon can provide any need for Phlox (#ad). (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Salad Burnet


Salad Burnet

Sanguisorba minor

A herb plant. Easy to grow from seed and will re-seed itself. Has a good taste in salads of cucumber flavor. Grows almost anywhere in the USA.

Salad Burnet, also known as Sanguisorba minor, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and as a flavoring herb in cooking. It has a mild cucumber-like flavor and can be used in salads, soups, and as a garnish.

One of the reasons I love Salad Burnet is because it is incredibly easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is also drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for gardeners who live in areas with dry summers.

Salad Burnet grows in clumps and can reach a height of up to 60cm. It produces small, red flowers in the early summer, which are great for attracting pollinators to your garden. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly serrated edge.

Aside from its culinary uses, Salad Burnet has several medicinal properties. It has been used to treat digestive issues, such as indigestion and bloating, as well as respiratory problems like coughs and colds. It is also said to have astringent properties, which make it useful for treating skin irritations and wounds.

Harvesting Salad Burnet is easy. You can begin harvesting the leaves as soon as the plant is established, typically in its second year of growth. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and used fresh or dried. To dry the leaves, simply hang them upside down in a cool, dark place for a few weeks.

In conclusion, Salad Burnet is a versatile and easy-to-grow herb that every gardener should consider adding to their garden. It not only adds flavor to your dishes but also has several medicinal properties that make it a valuable addition to any herbal medicine cabinet.

I hope you found this information helpful and that you will give Salad Burnet a try in your garden this year.

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide any need for Salad Burnet (#ad). (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Monday, March 8, 2010

Zinnia


Zinnia

Profusion

A very colorful plant that seems to grow best in the fall. Grows almost anywhere.

If you are looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance plant, then look no further than zinnias. These plants are perfect for gardeners of all skill levels, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes.

Zinnias are native to Mexico and Central America, but they have become popular all around the world thanks to their striking beauty and ease of care. They are annuals, which means that every year you will need to replant them. However, zinnias are very easy to grow from seed, and they will quickly fill any space with their vibrant blooms.

One of the best things about zinnias is that they are very versatile. They can thrive in almost any soil type, as long as it is well-drained. They prefer full sun, but they can also tolerate some shade. They do not need to be watered frequently, as they can tolerate drought, but they do appreciate regular watering during hot and dry periods.

Zinnias are also versatile in terms of their use in the garden. They are perfect for borders, mass plantings, containers, and even cut flower arrangements. They come in a wide variety of sizes, from dwarf varieties that are only a few inches tall, to tall varieties that can reach up to 4 feet in height. Zinnias also come in a range of colors, from vivid yellows and oranges, to soft pinks and purples.

If you want to get the most out of your zinnias, it is important to know how to care for them properly. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Choose the right location: Zinnias prefer full sun, so make sure you choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Prepare the soil: Zinnias can grow in almost any type of soil, but they prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or other organic matter to the soil before planting to ensure that your zinnias have the nutrients they need to thrive.

Water properly: Zinnias do not need frequent watering, but they do appreciate regular watering during dry periods. Water deeply once or twice a week, rather than lightly every day.

Deadhead regularly:(remove dead flower heads from (a plant) to encourage further blooming). To encourage your zinnias to continue blooming, it is important to deadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly. This will prevent the plant from putting energy into producing seeds, and instead encourage it to produce more flowers.

Fertilize occasionally: Although zinnias do not require frequent fertilization, they will benefit from an occasional application of an organic fertilizer. Apply fertilizer according to package instructions, and you cannot over-fertilize with organic.

In conclusion, zinnias are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that is perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy their vibrant blooms all summer long.

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide any need for zinnias (#ad). (I will receive compensation if you buy).