by Judy Funderburk, Extension Certified Master Gardener
Brown and Grey + Mockingbird Play
Mockingbird on Ilex verticillata (Winterberry Holly), protecting its winter ‘pantry.’
Photo © 2018 Judy Funderburk
As the cold of winter approaches, the Glencarlyn Library Community Garden winds down. Shorter days and colder temperatures signal some of the garden perennials that it is time drop leaves and turn brown, while for others it is their time to shine.
Unlike the riotous orange, red, gold, and magenta colors of fall, winter’s palette tends to be more subtle. Walk through the Library Garden with “winter” eyes and notice how the shades of brown and gray provide a backdrop for evergreens, some sedums, and native berry plants such as red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia), and ‘Red Sprite’ winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) to shine. Red Sprite’s berries will remain for at least a month and probably well into January, when freezing and thawing softens the berries enough that robins, catbirds, and mockingbirds come to feast. Continue reading
Sustainable landscape design builds on the unique conditions of your yard to create a healthier and more ecologically friendly outdoor space. Learn both basic design principles and the steps to take to assess your site’s conditions, no matter the size of your property.
