When many people see or hear the word “cerveza”, they think of a cold bottle of beer, as in “cerveza fria”. Since it is now high summer, some people think of that a lot—in Spanish or in English. When I think of “cerveza”, I summon a picture of my back garden, where a healthy ‘Cerveza … Read more
The last few years I have been quite taken by plants that feature black—or actually near-black—foliage. The rest of the gardening world seems to share that fascination, as the number of black-leafed perennials and shrubs has grown by leaps and bounds. Without too much effort you can now buy “Bishop’s Children” dahlias, the offspring of … Read more
Ever since my daughter was a little girl we have made small, sentimental journeys at various times of the year. In spring, we check our favorite garden centers religiously for the first plant arrivals and visit as soon as the pansies hit the pallets. We brave the crowds and the parking challenges to get to … Read more
The name ‘Dr. Huey’ may be unfamiliar, but if you grow roses, I’ll bet you have met him. The doctor is really quite a handsome rose, with a semi-double array of about 15 crimson petals and a center of golden stamens. It grows vigorously, shooting up from the roots with wild abandon. The doctor is … Read more
Right now in my garden, the peonies are finishing their annual run. Known botanically as Paeonia lactiflora, they are universally beloved for their lush, unabashedly sumptuous flowers and gorgeous colors. A single bloom in a tall bottle constitutes an elegant arrangement. Snip a handful of stems and you can create an over-the-top floral extravaganza. With … Read more
