Did you know that there are more than 20,000 species of pollen bees worldwide, and that 3,500 call North America home? Though this number may seem substantial, there has been a severe reduction in the bee population, and both the honey bee and the solitary pollen bee have been affected. As 60% of our food requires pollination, this is of concern to us all. With beekeeping being … [Read more...] about 6 tips for pollen bee nests in your garden
Tips for gardeners
July’s a good time to find plant bargains
It seems like summer is always late arriving and then rushes by much too quickly. Nonetheless, even in mid-July most of us can look forward to another three months of pleasant days outdoors, enjoying our gardens. And, if you have gaps in your garden or want to refresh your containers, this can be a good time to shop for plant bargains at reputable garden centres. Often you can … [Read more...] about July’s a good time to find plant bargains
Protect evergreen shrubs and trees in winter
Despite the surprisingly warm days this week, it’s smart to consider what we can do to protect needle and broadleaf evergreen plants from winter injuries. Evergreen shrubs and trees might give the impression that they’re tough and resilient, but the truth is these plants require as much consideration as tender perennials, and need regular watering and an annual feeding to keep … [Read more...] about Protect evergreen shrubs and trees in winter
The joys of sharing plants
Close to 15 years ago, I stopped at a roadside plant sale in Upper Granville, not far from Annapolis Royal, N.S. The affable gardener, Jim Smith, sold me an interesting rose that he called the Dominion Day rose, as its red-and-white striped buds normally open on Canada Day, formerly Dominion Day. I have never conclusively identified the rose, other than to determine it’s … [Read more...] about The joys of sharing plants
Plant hardiness zones changing, slowly
As gardeners in a northern climate, we’re quite aware of the challenges of growing plants that may be borderline hardy in the region where we live. “Will it grow in my zone?” is the pertinent question about winter hardiness for perennial plants. Scientists have developed maps of plant hardiness zones for Canada based on seven climate variables (not only the average annual … [Read more...] about Plant hardiness zones changing, slowly
