I have always been insecure about plant propagation. This is not to say that my plant holdings have failed to increase. I glory in the fact that many of my garden beauties propagate themselves by flagrant reseeding. The daylilies increase all on their own, as do ajugas and other plants that spread by underground roots, … Read more
People argue perpetually about certain words, among them “climate change” and “sustainability”. In a time of turmoil in the world—no matter how you characterize that turmoil—we need peace in the garden. So I propose we think about an idea that is relatively uncontroversial, has stood the test of time, and is useful in just about … Read more
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches every year, people start to talk about “the wearing of the green”. Individuals who eschew green clothing and accessories 364 days a year, paw through drawers and closets to find green apparel or jewelry to wear in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. They also eat the green, as … Read more
Chrysanthemums are not fragrant—at least not to my nose. In fact, an extract of chrysanthemum flowers, pyrethrin, is used as an insecticide, and insecticides almost never have a pleasant odor. I generally prefer sweet smelling flowers, but I love chrysanthemums—a love that comes naturally. My mother was wild about them, especially the giant “football” mums … Read more
