… green leaves. Known in Britain as the cricket bat willow, it is grown there as a timber source for their national game. The bright green stems of new growth supply winter interest when grown … known as willows. These woody plants range in size from the imposing weeping willow tree to small shrubs. While not fussy about soil quality, they generally require moderate to wet soil moisture. In the wild, willows are commonly found near streams, rivers and ponds. In …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Mid- to end of August is the best time to seed bare areas of lawn, overseed thinning grass, or lay down sod. When seeding lawns, use grass seed appropriate to your site. The best choice for most lawns in northern Illinois is a mix of Kentucky blue grass, perennial rye, and fescue …
Type: Plant Info
… Sources The following is a list of our most frequently used sources for "What's in Bloom: Bloom Highlights." Reference Books Brickell, Christopher, and H. Mark … The following is a list of our most frequently used sources for "What's in Bloom: Bloom Highlights." Reference Books Brickell, Christopher, and H. Mark …
Type: Page
… still within a summer's night A something so transporting bright, I clap my hands to see.” — Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) The reclusive American poet, Emily Dickinson, was devoted to gardening and no doubt spent evenings wandering her family's gardens and meadows for inspiration. There's much to be said for taking a stroll on a summer's eve at dusk. The …
Type: Plant Info
… that some of my evergreens have become discolored. Should I be concerned? A: It is normal for the foliage of some evergreens, such as arborvitae ( Thuja ) and boxwood ( Buxus ), to change color in cold weather. The different color of the foliage in such species is not indicative of a pathogen or cultural disorder; it is a normal response to winter temperatures. Species that are known to change color in cold weather include: …
Type: Plant Info
… Immediately prune back any branches damaged by snow and ice. During periods of thaw, continue to water trees and shrubs, especially newly planted trees and all evergreens. Take advantage of thaw to water plants or garden areas that receive salt spray. The water will dilute the salt concentration absorbed by plant roots. Continue to monitor for rodent or animal damage if this has been a problem in the past. Problems to look for include …
Type: Plant Info
… Apple serviceberry has spreading branches and can reach a mature height of 15 to 25 feet. Pink buds that open as white, 5-petaled flowers cover the small tree in late April or … early May. They are quickly followed by edible berries beloved by birds. This is truly a plant for all seasons, with its beautiful spring flowers, handsome green leaves, striking orange-to-red fall color and silver bark. It is a popular early spring-flowering small tree. Members of …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… The Himalayan birch is indeed native to the Himalayas and Nepal -- so naturally occurs at higher altitudes and cooler climates than the Chicago region. It is notable for the whiteness of its bark. The primary ornamental feature of birch trees is the bark. Many of the common names of birch trees refer to the color of the bark -- white, gray, yellow or red. Another signature bark characteristic is …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Young children love to get their hands dirty. Spend three days of gardening fun, practicing activities for young children, both inside and out. This workshop features easy-to-grow plants that stimulate the senses as well as simple investigations and activities to teach …
Type: Item Detail
… When holiday flowers like poinsettias and amaryllis start showing up in the stores (or come to you as holiday gifts), will you know what to do with them? Learn ways to keep flowering holiday plants looking their best for a long time. We’ll also look at the possibility of re-blooming some of them next year. Sharon …
Type: Item Detail
