Category: In the Garden

Introduction: As we move from the lush greens of summer into winter’s tans and browns, the garden need not be devoid of color. Winterberry shrubs (Ilex verticillata) are a stunning addition to any winter garden, providing vibrant bursts of red berries that stand out against winter starkness. As a bonus, these shrubs provide forage for birds and other wildlife, and are somewhat deer-resistant. Winterberry is native to much of North America and thrives in zones 3-9. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to plant and care for winterberry shrubs. Selecting the Right Variety: Before you rush out to buy winterberry, it’s crucial to choose the right varieties for your garden. Winterberries are dioecious, meaning they have separate…

As the days grow shorter and the crispness of fall fills the air, avid gardeners know that it’s time to turn their attention to preparing the garden beds for the upcoming spring. Fall garden bed prep is a crucial step in ensuring healthy, nutrient-rich soil that will support robust plant growth when the growing season returns. In this article, we’ll explore essential tasks such as amending the soil, weeding, utilizing occultation, and incorporating cover crops to set the stage for a thriving garden in the months ahead. Soil Amendment: Nourishing the Earth Fall garden prep is an opportune time to amend your garden soil, to replenish the nutrients depleted during the growing season. Compost, well-rotted manure, and organic…