Lower 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
Wasps Reconsidered
I remember summers growing up in the south. Climbing trees, playing outdoor games, running barefoot ... lots of good memories. There are also some not-so-great ones. At the top of that list are paper wasps. It was inevitable that every summer I was...
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Resources
Web Finds
Using Paper Wasps for Caterpillar Management in the Landscape Using Paper Wasps for Caterpillar Management in the Landscape is a North Carolina State...
Favorite or New Plant
Purple Heart Purple heart ( Setcreasea pallida ) may be one of the most versatile and resilient perennial...
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Regional Reminders
- Protect Seedlings From Drying Sun and Wind
- Prevent Late-Season Outbreaks of Scale
- Water Wisely
- Keep Bedding Plants in Bloom
- Don't Bag Those Grass Clippings
