Western Mountains and High Plains
September, 2012
Regional Report
Favorite or New Plant
Pansies
Pansies (Viola x wittrockiana) are cheerful plants for cool weather of fall and spring. They are available in a wide range of colors, including red, purple, pink, yellow, lavender, black, orange and burgundy, to name a few. Plant Select recommendations include 'Blue Velvet' with deep purple flowers with a black face and 'Northern Lights' with large blooms in mixed colors of lilac, blue and cream.
Plant in soil prepared with compost to ensure good drainage. Pansies are excellent in containers, too.
Clever Gardening Technique
Nontoxic Powdery Mildew Control
A nontoxic control for powdery mildew on vegetables and ornamentals is baking soda combined with a light horticultural oil. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of the horticultural oil in one gallon of water. Apply to the top and underside of the foliage in the cooler parts of the day.
