Beef Up Your Beefsteak.
Did you know the same remedy for your headache can help you grow stronger tomatoes?
Aspirin has been shown to mimic a hormone in tomatoes that tricks the plant into thinking it has been attacked. This SAR (systemic acquired resistance) is a natural defense mechanism and when it is triggered it will result in a healthier, more fruitful plant.
Read More»Frosty Ferns Upon the Window Pane
the frosty ferns, unmelted, gleamed long days upon the window pane.
~ Marian Douglas, The Message of the Flowers
Christmas Waves a Magic Wand
Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.
Local
Whenever I am speaking at Flower Shows or Garden Clubs I always stress the importance of doing business with a good local nursery. The big box stores are fine for rakes, leaf bags and the occasional bag of potting soil but when it comes to plant material you cannot beat a local nursery. Many of the staff are devoted plant people, “geeks” if you will. Many have worked and studied hard to achieve accreditations from industry groups like the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (shout out to my fellow MCHs and MCLPs). Many are Master Gardeners. In other words, these are typically people who know plants. You want to get to know them. Get on their good side. Bring them brownies. Or beer. They have access to the plant material and they need to know your name. Once they realize that you are a true plant lover they might let you know when the delivery of that really cool plant is arriving. They may even put one aside for you.
I could not be successful in my business without the support of great local nurseries. One of my favorites is A. Thomas and Sons in Milton, MA.
These guys are awesome and if you live in the area you owe it to yourself to check them out.
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