Upper South
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
Playing With Annual Combinations
People who think perennials are easier to grow than annuals haven't faced a weed-ridden bed with mismatched flower colors and plants desperately in need of dividing. How I would love to till it all up and start over, except for the time, effort, and...
Read more »
Resources
Favorite or New Plant
Summersweet Scenting the garden during July and August, summersweet ( Clethra alnifolia ) is a decidous...
Tool or Gardening Product
Espoma Fertilizers Often there is a disconnect between what we want to do and what we actually do. Sometimes...
Read more »
Regional Reminders
- Encouraging More Flowers
- Water Efficiently
- Use and Store Pesticides Carefully
- Order Autumn Crocuses
- Gather Bouquets
