… (sometimes) with friends. But most of all, they love to discover new ones. Gaura lindheimeri is a relative newcomer to Chicago-area perennial borders. Native to Texas and Louisiana and … plant forms a strong taproot that allows it to withstand heat and drought once established. It is also tolerant of humidity and has no known insect or disease problems. Perhaps best of all, it blooms for a long time, from early summer to autumn, especially if the entire flower stem is removed as blossoms fade. There have been some improvements on the original plant as breeders …
Type: Plant Info
… are used whole they can prevent water from penetrating the root zones of plants; therefore, it is important to shred them first. If only a small amount is needed, whole leaves can easily be shredded in a garbage can using a weed whacker. It is always a good idea to wear safety goggles when using a weed whacker. If a larger amount is …
Type: Plant Info
… This hardy lady slipper orchid is known for good flower production, even for begining hardy orchid gardeners. A deep maroon red upright flag is flanked by two petals streaked in maroon and cream. The large inflated pouch is predominantly cream with small lines and dots of maroon. Very striking. Plant in full to half …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Chinese ground orchid is a terrestrial orchid that grows from flat pseudobulbs that resemble corms. Each pseudobulb … racemes from March through June on long thin stalks growing 12 to 18 inches tall. Although it is advertised to be hardy to USDA Zone 5, it is best to mulch the plant to protect it and keep it warm in winter. Grow in part-shade areas in …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Roy Tokunaga orchid ( Dendrobium Roy Tokunaga) is a cross between Dendrobium johnsoniae and Dendrobium atroviolaceum , and its main feature is an incredibly long bloom time: it begins to flower in November, and continues blooming for close to six months. This Latouria, or New Guinea-type orchid, is white with dark purple nectar guides. Like most Latouria orchids, Roy Tokunaga requires a …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… and will have a shorter shelf life. Look for pumpkins that have a well-rounded shape that is free of any fresh wounds or soft spots, which is an early indication of rotting. Make sure the fruit is firm and cannot be pierced easily. If the rind can be pierced easily, it’s too soft and, …
Type: Plant Info
… ), zinnia ( Zinnia ), verbena ( Verbena ), and others. Description & Symptoms Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that flourishes during cool, damp weather and affects various parts of many … to form which are followed by a tan or gray fuzzy mold that thrives in high humidity. Botrytis is often referred to as gray mold. Damage Unopened flower buds wither and brown. Lesions appear … level. Treatment & Solutions Botrytis is best controlled through good cultural techniques. Site plants in well-drained soil. Avoid overhead watering when possible because water splashed …
Type: Plant Info
… Description: This common bird is found across the Garden. This species has become increasingly aggressive in defending their nests, even against people. It is not unusual for them to attack people who get too close to a nest site. …
Type: Birding
… Description: This is one of two visible woodpecker species with red highlights on its head. It is more common than the red-headed woodpecker. Look for this species in the McDonald Woods or at …
Type: Birding
… It has glossy purple-red blooms that attract butterflies from May through October. It is a specimen ground cover that is resistant to deer. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
