Humus is defined as the decaying animal and vegetable matter that is found in most good soils. It is extremely important for the health and growth of all plants. Humus aids in the absorption of water by the soil, as well as providing nutrients. It also opens soils, allowing more air to reach plant roots. Peat moss, a great source of humus, will absorb anywhere from 600 to 1200 percent of its dry weight in water. In addition to peat moss, other sources of humus are compost, manure and green manure (cover crops that are plowed into the soil in the spring or fall). Adding humus to gardens on a regular basis will improve the soil. Clay soils will become more workable and sandy soil will retain more water. When digging a new garden, be sure to add a good quantity of humus to get the garden off to a great start.
Garden Phlox
Tall garden phlox are a great perennial for the sunny garden, adding height and lots of color during the summer. Phlox plants are available in whites, reds, pinks and purples. There are even some garden phlox that look almost blue and others in an interesting shade of orange. For healthy plants, be sure to provide good air circulation. Organic, well-drained soils are the preferred growing medium. If you have been plagued by powdery mildew in the past, there is a new fungicide called Infuse® that’s a great help in the war against fungus diseases. One good thing about Infuse® is that it’s a systemic fungicide, which means it works from the inside of the plant. Fungicides are a preventative measure, so spray susceptible plants before mildew appears.
New Trees
Before going to the garden center to choose a new tree for your landscape, check out the spot where you plan to place it. First, look up to determine the amount of available space. Consider the location of overhead wires, other tree crowns and buildings; they will all affect the choice of tree. Then, look down to make sure you have enough room for the roots which will extend beyond the drip line of the tree. Next, evaluate the soil. Clay, sandy or loam sites will require different trees. Armed with knowledge of these three things, you and Bachman’s staff will be able to pick the perfect tree to enjoy for years.
Deadheading Saves The Day
Many annuals benefit when you remove faded flowers. The practice, known as deadheading, does more than make the plant look better. If faded blooms are left on the plant, seeds develop at considerable cost to the plant. In contrast, if flowers don’t set seed, the plant puts out more blooms in the effort to reproduce, and you reap the benefit. Some plants–alyssum, for example–can even be cut back and will bloom again.
Did You Know?
Banana plants are the world’s largest herb.
Tips
Scatter seeds of fennel, dill and flat leaf Italian parsley in empty spaces in flowerbeds. You can use the flavorful leaves, and these plants are the primary food for caterpillars of lovely swallowtail butterflies. (Don’t use insecticides in these gardens to protect your health and the lives of the caterpillars.).
Flowers and gifts from Bachman’s make any day a special one. When you order your flowers or gifts online, you know you’ll be getting a beautiful fresh floral arrangement from a trusted florist known for outstanding floral design, plus quality and service.
If you’re sending flowers or gifts out of town, you can rely on us to choose the best florist from either the FTD or Teleflora nationwide flower network. Florists who can be counted on to deliver the best fresh floral arrangements and gifts, even when doing a same day delivery.
