Plants

Shopping for dahlias
Although Beckie ordered a dozen dahlia tubers in January — the earlier you order, the better the selection — she's thinking of choosing a few more. A fresh start for this year affords the chance to grow new-to-her varieties.

Canadian Shield first in new series of easy-to-grow roses
Canadian Shield, a vivid red landscape rose with glossy green foliage, is first in a new series of easy-to-grow roses called the 49th Parallel Collection.

Using trees to screen an unattractive view
The most effective means of obscuring an an unattractive view is to plant tall, narrow or coniferous trees — often called columnar or fastigiate trees.

Five native plants to try
If you’re thinking of including some native plants in your garden, 5 plants worth trying: foamflower, Culver's root, Joe Pye weed, Swamp milkweed, bugbane.

Getting to know sanguisorbas
Long favoured by British and European gardeners, sanguisorbas (burnets) are starting to show up in Canadian gardens. These understated perennials are hardy.