Category Archives: Country Gardening

Advice, commentary and exploration

Plentiful Bounty

Posted on November 30, 2013 by Eliza Waters

In our area of New England, there is a bounty of fruit this year, perhaps due to plentiful spring rain or from plants’ natural response to the dearth of fruit last year. Apples, sumacs, rosehips, barberries, winterberries and that rapidly … Continue reading →

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Life during Dormancy

Posted on November 24, 2013 by Eliza Waters

In late November and early December before snow comes to transform the land, the garden seems dull and boring. Almost everything has died down to various shades of brown, from tan to rust to near black or gray. Evergreens provide … Continue reading →

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Tall Weeds

Posted on November 14, 2013 by Eliza Waters

Tall weedy seed heads provide valuable food for wintering birds. Consider leaving your weeds for winter wildlife. reposted from YardMap click here for good garden perennials to plant for birds

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Help the Monarch Butterfly

Posted on November 1, 2013 by Eliza Waters

After a record low year for monarchs we can’t help but think about what positive actions we can take to support this dramatic butterfly’s population. One easy thing: Plant some milkweed. Right around NOW is the perfect time to do … Continue reading →

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Shagbark Hickory

Posted on October 27, 2013 by Eliza Waters

We took a walk this weekend along an old logging road that is lined with shagbark hickory, oak, sugar maple and beech. The day was cool, but not too cold, perfect for a stroll. Deciduous woodlands are so lovely to visit … Continue reading →

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Forcing Amaryllis

Posted on October 21, 2013 by Eliza Waters

Forced amaryllis (Hippeastrum cultivars), with their multiple big, boldly colored flowers perched atop sturdy stems, has become an appealing alternative to the ubiquitous poinsettias that decorate homes during the December holiday season. They can be a great gift for those … Continue reading →

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What the heck is that? Real Insect Aliens

Posted on October 4, 2013 by Eliza Waters

“Huh, what’s this? How does a tiny ball of lint move by itself?” Sitting in my adirondack chair outside, I saw a 1/4″ ball of fuzz on the armrest move. I am more curious than squeamish, so I looked closer … Continue reading →

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October Gardening

Posted on October 2, 2013 by Eliza Waters

GARDENER’S CORNER (Zone 5/6) In October, frosts diminish our gardens until even the last of the asters and chrysanthemums pass. Now we come to appreciate the backbone of the landscape: dried perennial grasses, evergreens, silhouettes and bark of trees and … Continue reading →

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Asters

Posted on September 26, 2013 by Eliza Waters

Among the last native flowers to bloom, Asters are impressive with over 50 species found in the northeast alone, many being garden worthy. Against the gold of autumn, their deep purple and lavender blooms nodding in the breeze always catch … Continue reading →

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GARDENER’S CORNER When rain is abundant in spring, just about every garden consequently suffers from some sort of mold, mildew or fungus problem come late summer. Unfortunately, once it becomes apparent that you have a problem, it’s generally too late … Continue reading →

Posted on September 22, 2013 by Eliza Waters | 4 Comments