Plant Talk

Snowflakes are magical!  Even after this past winter, I suspect most people will still admit snowflakes have a certain enchanting quality.  However, for some gardeners, snowflakes do not come from the air but from the ground!  Leucojum vernum  or Spring Snowflake is among the first of the bulbs to come into bloom, often beginning in February while the ground is still covered beneath an icy blanket (as pictured below in mid-February at Willowwood Arboretum).  Like a good snowf

It’s February!  Although the garden is still emersed in winters grasp, February brings growing signs that spring is not far away.  Evergreens are certainly one stalwart sign of life, yet there are a number of plants with colorful stems or unfurling flower buds that show the garden is still very much alive despite the temperatures.  One plant whose buds are showing signs of life is the Willow, botanically known as Salix .  Often overlooked for reasons unknown, there are severa

January is a tough month for gardeners. The days are short, unpleasantly cold and occasionally fraught with ice and snow. The garden is quiet and relies mostly on evergreens for consistent color throughout the month. Admittedly, finding good evergreen ground covers and perennials is more of a challenge, especially if a color other than green is desired! Fortunately, there are several great selections from which to choose, including Euphorbia myrsinites or Donkey Tail Spurge.