Rose lovers short on space need not give up growing these beauties. Instead, try miniature roses. These dainty plants have all the qualities of their larger siblings, but on a smaller scale. They’re also easy to grow and hardy, and their dwarf habit makes them versatile enough for not only in-ground growing, but containers as well; some varieties are even scented, … [Read more...] about Miniature roses: simply irresistible
Plants
Designing with dwarf conifers
When it comes to conifers, bigger isn’t always better. We may pine for mature Douglas firs and Norway spruces, but those goliaths will swallow up most urban gardens. Thankfully, there are dwarf forms of many conifers, suitable for gardens of all sizes, right down to pots and troughs. Of course, “dwarf” is a relative term. The ‘Fat Albert’ cultivar of blue spruce is often called … [Read more...] about Designing with dwarf conifers
Meet the haskaps
It’s an oddly shaped, purple-blue berry that is native to northern Russia, northern Japan and parts of Canada, but now also grows wild from Alberta to Newfoundland and in northeastern Europe. It’s touted as having high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, and is more popular in many other parts of the world because of its distinctive flavour. Meet the blue honeysuckle … [Read more...] about Meet the haskaps
5 ornamental grasses for shade
When we think of ornamental grasses, visions of sun-kissed meadows and sky-blue prairies come to mind. But some grasses and grassy look-alikes hail from shadier parts, and in the wild, they’re found along woodland streams, on cool mountainsides or on moody moors. With their grassy blades, airy plumes and sometimes variegated or golden foliage, they offer a variety of textures … [Read more...] about 5 ornamental grasses for shade
Veronica makes a statement
Maybe it’s their bluer than blue flowers or their dramatic vertical blooms that first grab your attention. Then they continue to delight you with their ease and long-lasting beauty. With more than 500 species and countless cultivars available, there’s a veronica to suit every taste. Some have tall, upright spikes of flowers perfect for cutting. Others are low-growing evergreen … [Read more...] about Veronica makes a statement
