I have always envied gardeners who boast that they have something in bloom outdoors 365 days a year. In a cold winter climate that is just about impossible, unless you count the final fall flower remnants that somehow cling to blackened stems into January. I call that cheating and I won’t do it. At least … Read more
Despite the wide availability of relatively cheap cut flowers, a rose in winter always seems like a small miracle. It seemed perfectly fitting last week that I glimpsed some of those miraculous winter blooms adorning a church Advent wreath. The roses were pale purple, in keeping with the Christian tradition of using that color for … Read more
The sunniest spot on my dining room window seat is currently occupied by a geranium—Pelargonium x hortorum–that is struggling to come to terms with the winter light. By the time it truly acclimates, it will probably be March—almost time to take it outdoors to soak up the direct sunshine it craves. In the meantime, it … Read more
I love giving plants at holiday time. It fits with my horticultural sensibility. Most people appreciate a blooming plant, especially one that will continue to add color and/or interest after the holiday baubles go back in their boxes. But with plants as with all gifts, it is important to match the gift to the recipient. … Read more
My childhood pediatrician, Dr. S., was a colleague of my father’s, a close family friend, and a man who loved Christmas. In fact, he loved Christmas so much that he lived it year round, through his hobby of crafting lavish tree ornaments. When I knew him, he had long since made enough to cover his … Read more
