Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Fall foliage of Oxydendrum arboreum (Sourwood) in the Sunny Demonstration Garden.
Photo © 2015 Elaine Mills
Though native to parts of the Mid-Atlantic Region,* Sourwood is more common in the South, including Virginia’s southern half. In residential landscapes, this decorative tree offers year-round appeal: lily-of-the-valley-like flowers, breathtakingly brilliant fall foliage, persistent fruit capsules and reddish color twigs.
Based on an intern project by Rachel Vecchio, Certified Master Gardener
THE MYTH: Vinegar is an effective way to kill weeds.
THE REALITY: Household vinegar has long been heralded for its many uses around the home and garden, but is it actually an effective weed control method? Continue reading
A Guide for Naturalists and Gardeners by James B. Nardi
Reviewed by Kathleen Luisa, Master Naturalist and member of Potomack Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society
I have a fairly extensive library of books and field guides on just about every subject you can think of that relates to the natural world—from geology to space to weather to worms to seashells. I even have a field guide to fields! Many of them really don’t lend themselves to reading cover to cover, but I’m reading one now that I am thoroughly enjoying. And I really like the looks I get when people see the title. It’s Life in the Soil: A Guide for Naturalists and Gardeners by James B. Nardi. Continue reading
Aquilegia canadensis, Eastern Columbine
Photo © 2016 Elaine Mills
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This lovely wildflower is native to woodlands and rocky slopes throughout much of the eastern half of North America.* Its nodding, bell-like flowers on delicate foliage attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The Virginia Native Plant Society honored Wild Columbine as Wildflower of the Year in 1998.
Based on an intern project by Rachel Vecchio, Certified Master Gardener
THE MYTH: Adding eggshells to a tomato plant’s planting hole prevents blossom end rot.
THE REALITY: Blossom end rot is a disfiguring black spot on the bottom of a tomato. This problem can occur on peppers, eggplant, squash, and watermelon too. It can be a maddening blight for anyone who has invested the time and effort to grow tomatoes. Can eggshells help avoid this frustrating situation? Continue reading
The following public education programs are scheduled by VCE Master Gardeners in Arlington and Alexandria in August 2018Classes | Plant Clinics | Wednesday Library Garden Talks
Wednesday, August 1, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Long Branch Nature Center
625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington 22204
Learn how to manage and control garden diseases and pests affecting your trees, ornamentals, and the lawn with the Virginia Cooperative Extension Agent. This will be an entertaining look at the 2018 Pest Management Guide: Home Grounds and Animals.
Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org.
Questions? Call 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com.
