Sassafras albidum - SAS-ah-fras AL-bih-dum; Common Names: Cinnamon Wood, Mitten Tree This is a tree that can be filed under "what's not to like?" Animals· from humans to rabbits, birds, insects and fungi, all love this tree. Natives used it … [Read more...]
CRAPE MYRTLE
Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia species) is a handsome, summer-flowering, deciduous small tree or shrub. It is a favorite among Southern gardeners because of its beauty and low maintenance. It has been called the lilac of the … [Read more...]
5 Hydrangea Mistakes That Produce No Flowers
We are about to enjoy a fabulous hydrangea show this season. Winter can sometimes spell doom for these plants across much of the U.S. but not so this year. Winter was mild with record-breaking warm temperatures in the northeast where gardeners … [Read more...]
Long, Tall Trunk in a Yellow Dress: The Versatile Poplar Tree
With its many delightful qualities, tulip poplar trees deserve renewed consideration from property owners who have sufficient space for planting them. Continued: Source: … [Read more...]
Red Mulberry
Red Mulberry Morus Rubra (MOR-us ROO-brah) Your local birds and small mammals will be delighted if you decide to add Red Mulberry to yourlandscape! The blackberry-like fruit will also please the humans in your life. They can be eatenfresh from the … [Read more...]
American Holly
American Holly - Ilex opaca (EE-leks oh-PAY-kah) Common Name(s): American Holly, Holly, Winterberry In the 4 years I’ve lived in Bedford County I haven’t seen any Cedar Waxwings which causes me sadness although this is probably for the best … [Read more...]
Trees of Life – SOURWOOD
Sourwood Tree Oxydendrum arboreum- ok-see-DEN-drum ar-BOR-ee-um If you are looking for a native tree with beauty, usefulness and character consider the Sourwood Tree. Also, known as Sorrel or Lily of the Valley tree, it's beauty lies in … [Read more...]
Understanding Shade: How to Create the Ultimate Shade Garden
Shade can be challenging to some, and over the years as a landscape designer, I have received questions from clients on what to plant in the more shaded areas of their property. My response always is, “You can achieve a beautiful shade garden by … [Read more...]
TREES OF LIFE
American Beech - Fagus grandifolia The American Beech's symmetrical, stately bearing makes it a great native choice for a landscape that needs shade and beauty. It also features a muscular trunk with smooth gray bark said by some to look like … [Read more...]
~ TREES OF LIFE ~
A monthly exploration of native small trees, focusing on their beauty and benefits. FRINGE TREE (Chionanthus virginicus) kee-oh-NAN-thus ver-JIN-ih-kus My sister and I saw Fringe trees in full bloom while hiking the AT; so now there is one … [Read more...]