Pacific Northwest
July, 2006
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
Poison Ivy Gets Pumped Up
One of the scourges of summer is dermatitis from contact with poison ivy. The leaves, branches, and roots of this perennial vining weed contain an oil ( urushiol ) that, once it penetrates your...
The First True Red Hydrangea
One visit to your local garden center and its clear that mophead hydrangeas ( Hydrangea macrophylla ) are very popular. While pink or blue flowers have been the most popular colors, plant...
Veggies Help Prevent Clogged Arteries
Its common knowledge that eating vegetables is good for us, and a recent study helps us understand at least one reason why. In laboratory tests on rodents, researchers at Wake Forest University...
Add Water-Absorbing Gel After Planting
Water-absorbing crystals are often used to keep containers, hanging baskets, and pots moist during dry summer weather. The traditional way to apply the crystals is to mix them into the potting...
In the Garden
Art in the Garden
Garden art must be one of the fastest growing trends. Artful garden accessories seem to be everywhere -- from the grocery store to booths at the local farmer's market. In fact, if you can walk past all the gazing balls and obelisks and sculptural...
Read more »
Resources
Books
Learn About Insects! The video MicroCosmos (Miramax Films, 1996; $14.95) captures the details and awesome diversity...
Favorite or New Plant
Clary Sage Both big and different, clary sage ( Salvia sclarea ) is a difficult plant to describe. This...
Read more »
Regional Reminders
- Control Apple Maggots
- Fertilize Tomatoes
- Practice Good Garden Sanitation
- Keep Composting
- Prune Flowering Shrubs
