… any seed starting are time, light, a growing medium, cleanliness, water, and attention. Time is critical. Some species need weeks longer than others. Impatiens, for example, need to be … a couple of standard fluorescent tubes in a utilitarian shop light works fine, if the fixture is hung on chains with S-hooks so its height can be adjusted. Install it securely in an … very well and allow the delicate roots to find their way between its particles. Potting mix is generally too dense; it's better to buy a sterile seed-starting mix. The mix must be sterile …
Type: Plant Info
… doctors to help patients experiencing food insecurity and diet-related diseases. The produce is grown by Windy City Harvest, the Garden’s urban agriculture program. Part of the program is to help demystify new veggies by sharing easy, delicious recipes. “I was excited to learn … syrup, and lemon juice. Slowly add olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is thickened. Add salt & pepper to taste. Add beet wedges and crumbled cheese to the salad. Chop …
Type: Blog
… fade green by summer. Flowers are white to deep pink and bloom in early summer. An added bonus is that late spring pruning prompts a new flush of reddish leaves in summer. Fall color is variable but can be a stunning purplish-red. The dense reddish-brown twigs are attractive in winter. Variegated Japanese kerria ( Kerria japonica 'Picta') Kerria is an early spring bloomer with profuse bright yellow flowers that open with the midseason bulbs. …
Type: Plant Info
… want a woody vine with the flat hydrangea flowers, consider H. anomala ssp. petiolaris . This is a vigorous perennial vine that clings and climbs to almost any surface. It requires a sturdy … but some may suffer from considerable branch dieback during Chicago's cold months. Success is possible with winter protection, and regular applications of compost. Oakleaf Hydrangeas Native to the southeast United States, H. quercifolia is a shrub with four seasons of interest, unique leaves, interesting flowers, fall color, …
Type: Plant Info
… Yellow Flame') Planted in the Enabling Garden, Double Zahara Fire ( Zinnia marylandica ) is part of the series that is powdery mildew-resistant. Zahara™ Coral Rose zinnia ( Zinnia Marylandica ) is an outstanding performer with low water needs for your summer garden. Zinnias work fast If …
Type: Plant Info
… “Gollum” ). Kalanchoe, also called “mother of thousands” ( Kalanchoe daigremontiana ), is a fright to anyone who remembers the 1951 science fiction classic “Day of the Triffids” where … from insects and other small animals to thrive. The Venus flytrap, ( Dionaea musipula ), is well-known for its jaw-like leaves that close on unsuspecting flies. We also love the …
Type: Blog
… I overwinter coleus plants so I don’t have to buy new ones each spring? A: The easiest method is to pot up stem cuttings. Most growers and home gardeners use this method in late fall to … a fuller shape. In spring, gradually introduce the plants to outdoor conditions. Coleus is very frost-sensitive, so bring the plants inside if cold nights threaten. By mid-May, the …
Type: Plant Info
… trunk or allowed to sit in a cold car for any length of time. To unwrap a holiday plant, it is best to set the plant on a stable surface and carefully tear or cut the wrapper from the … plants to get air. Foil pot wrappers are attractive, but should be removed whenever the plant is watered so that the plant does not sit in water. …
Type: Plant Info
… of true leaves, pinch the weaker plants down to soil level. Water the seedlings when the soil is dry. It is important to slowly acclimate tomato plants to outdoor temperatures, wind, and the sun’s …
Type: Plant Info
… a ceramic plant pot without cracking it? A: The following process can be successful, but it is not guaranteed, and it is intended for adults with cordless drill competence. Materials/Tools: Ceramic plant pot …
Type: Plant Info
