[PLANT PROFILE] GERBER DAISIES

June 12, 2023 Karen Logan

GERBER DAISIES

Vividly colored Gerber Daisies are best planted in spring after all chances of frost have passed. In our zone, they are considered annuals. They bloom beautifully throughout the summer and die off in winter.

***Varieties***

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* Patio Series:
*Tall larger flower*
*Available in two colors.*
* Jaguar Series:
*Short & ornamental*

GROWING TIPS

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* Bred for the outdoors
* Flourish all summer
* Best grown in 7” pots or
larger
* Large bloom size 4”-5”
* Height 15-18” with
flowers

unleash the wild on your yard

doug tallamy

ANNUALS

June 6, 2023 Karen Logan

ANNUALS

Annuals are plants that are glorious during the summer but do not survive the winter. They produce flowers and seeds all in one season and then the mother plant dies. The seed falls to the ground and often germinates the following spring and the next generation of seedlings emerge. Often the seedlings are identical or very similar to the mother but they also can be somewhat different and different from each other, like brothers and sisters. When the plant reseeds in the area where the mother plant was, it is called colonizing. Poppies, Bachelor Buttons, Cleome, Larkspur, Browallia americana and Nigella are annuals that colonize. Some biennials, like foxgloves, do this as well.

Annuals usually have a much longer bloom season than perennials. Some bloom all summer long. Many reseed and colonize.

Calendula Bon Bon mix / A dwarf Calendula blooms all summer in full sun or part shade. Calendula flowers are edible. Other edible flowers to use as garnishes include Bachelor Buttons, Borage Borago officinalis, Nasturtiums and Violas.

Calibracoa Sweet Peach. Annual blooms all summer.

Calendulas(Taller). Taller calendulas make good cut flowers. Edible.

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Reseeding Tips

* Deadheading flowers will keep the plant blooming longer. If your goal is for the plant to reseed, stop deadheading later in the season to let the seed mature. Seeds need to mature in order to reseed.

* Do not mulch heavily around the mother plant if you want it to reseed. A lot of annuals need light to germinate.

* Many people mulch their beds after gardens get cleaned up in fall. You should do it lightly or not at all if you want annuals and biennials to germinate.

These are details that will enhance reseeding success.

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TRY THESE!

We have many favorites! The tried and true ones are still around.

There are new introductions of cultivars within each of these.

Geraniums / Impatiens / Cosmos / Cleome / Portulacas / Salvias / Marigolds / Alyssum / Ageratums / Nasturtiums / Nicotianas / Dahlias / Asters / Zinnias / Morning Glories / Amaranthus / Gomphrenas / Pentas / Lisianthus / Scabiosa / Snapdragons / Dusty Miller / Callas / Caladiums / Coleus / Agapanthus / Tropical Hibiscus / Fuchsia

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LONG BLOOMING PROVEN WINNER ANNUALS

Argyranthemums / Osteospermums / Lobularias / Calibrachoas / Euphorbia Diamond Frost / Petunias / Torenias / Diascias / Phlox / Verbenas

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LESSER KNOWN ANNUALS THAT ARE STRONG GARDEN PERFORMERS

Browallia americana / Orlaya grandiflora / Ammi majus / Erigeron karvinskianus / Nigella / Ceratotheca triloba / Rhemania angulata / Emilia coccinea / Tithonia / Sanvitalia / Dahlberg Daisies / Daturas Ricinus / Clary Sage (Blue Monday and Pink Sundae) / Tibouchina urvilleana

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RECOMMENDED DEER RESISTANT ANNUALS

Lantanas / Salvias / Daturas / Ricinus

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TRY ADDING ANNUAL VINES TO CONTAINERS & HANGING BASKETS

Mina lobata / Thunbergias / Cobaea scandens (Cup and Saucer Vine) / Mandevilla

Nasturtiums

Salvia Amistad / Salvia Hummingbird / Verbena Vanessa Purple / Nemesia Bluebird / Petunia Vista White / Hippo White Polka Dot / Dichondra / Euphorbia Frost

Dahlia

Cosmos Sonata Pink

Geraniums

Osteospermum Serenity Bronze

Petunia Easy Wave Blue

Portulaca Fuschia

Portulaca Fuchsia

Salpiglossis

Thunbergias

Calla Lily_Zantedeschia Snow Storm

Ipomoea Heavenly Blue

Calibrachoa_Million Bells

Sweet Alyssum

Nicotiana langsdorfii

Coleus

Cleome Senorita Blanca

Cleome Senorita Rosalita

Hibiscus Tropical Jewel Amber

Hibiscus Tropical Jewel Ruby

Lanatana Bandana Mango

Lantana Sunrise Rose

Lantana Bandana Lemon Zest

Lantana Bandera Red

Lantana Lucsious Golden Gate

Lantana Samantha

Tibouchina urvilleana

Tithonia

Eschscholtzia Californica Orange Poppy

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Add annuals to your perennial beds, containers & hanging baskets

Annuals long bloom season offers a consistency in color that defines the border. The reseeding characteristic helps tie the garden together with repeating blooms throughout the bed. They seem to come up between and within the perennials in a random fashion with no apparent pattern. It is best not to overcrowd perennials but you can plant plenty of annuals between your perennials. Learn to identify the seedlings so you don’t pull them out, thinking that they are weeds.

We Grow an Assortment of Annuals!

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* Fillers in perennial
beds.
* Use in hanging baskets
* Use in container
plantings
* Many annuals make
great cut flowers.

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Hanging Baskets

We currently have a large variety of hanging baskets available at the nursery!

***MORNING GLORIES***
***Heavenly Blue***
***Chocolate***
*****
***BEGONIAS***
***Solenia Dark Pink***
***Bossa Nova Orange***
***Encanto Pink***
***Miss Miami***
*****
***PETUNIAS***
***Headliner Banana Cherry***
***Headliner Raspberry Swirl***
***Headliner Night Sky***
***Surfinia Magenta***
***Surfinia Heavenly Blue***
***Heavenly Amethyst Burst***
***Patio Radiant Dark Blue***
*****
***LOBELIA***

***THUNBERGIA***
***Orange Wonder***
*****
IMPATIENS
***Double Sparkler Hot Pink***
***Dark Red***
***New Guinea Impatiens***
*****
***GERANIUMS***
***Great Balls of Fire Light***
***Caliente Orange***
*****
***FUCHSIA***
***Wind Chimes Basket***
***Red/White***
*****
TORENIA
***Summer Wave***
*****
***SCAEVOLA***
***Whirlwind Blue***

Geranium Great Balls of Fire Light Lavender

Begonia Bossa Nova Orange

Begonia Encanto Pink

Begonia Miss Miami

Begonia Solenia Dark Pink

Fuchsia Aretes Upright Rio Grande

Fuchsia

Geranium Caliente Orange

Geranium

Impatiens Double Sparkler Dark Red

Impatiens Double Sparkler Hot Pink

Ipomoea Chocolate (Morning Glory Chocolate)

Petunia Headliner Banana Cherry

Petunia Headliner Night Sky

Petunia Headliner Raspberry Swirl

Petunia Heavenly Amethyst Burst

Petunia Surfinia Heavnely Blue

Petunia Surfinia Magenta

Torenia Summer Wave Large Blue

pollinator plants

perennials, shrubs & trees

TROPICALS

May 12, 2023 Karen Logan

OUR TROPICALS ARE IN!

Just in time for Mother’s Day! We have a variety of Hibiscus, Mandevillas, Bougainvillea, Calla Lily, Gardenias and so much more!

Agapanthus Midknight Blue

Agapanthus, Queen Anne

Bougainvillea Oo-la-la

Bougainvillea Purple Queen topiary

Calla Lily Captain Solo

Calla Lily, Zantedeschia White

Calla Lily, Zantedeschia Captain Black

Colocasia Black Coral

Ctenanthe setosa (L), Canna indica lon01 (R)

Cuphea hyssopifolia

Gardenia, Everblooming

Gardenia

Gardenias

Euryops, Green Leaved

Helianthus x annus

Hibiscus Fiesta

Hibiscus Red Darling

Hibbiscus, Hula Girl

Hibiscus Jazzy Jewel Amber

Lantana Tangerine

Mandevilla Coral Pink

Mandevilla

Mandevilla Pretty Pink

Mandevilla

Monstera Deliciosa Tauerii

Monstera Deliciosa tauerii

Star Jasmine, Trachelospermum jasminoides

Lily of the Nile, Twister

Topical plants add a lush element to your gardens and patios

To create this tRopical oasis:

Opt for large leaves / brightly colored flowers / vertical growth (climbers)

An option is to grow them in containers set down in to the soil to make it easy to bring them indoors for the winter.

BROADLEAF EVERGREENS

April 28, 2023 Karen Logan

Rhododendron Maximum illustration by karen blackerby logan

Broadleaf evergreens have year round interest!

Often in spring we think we need flowers and color but evergreens are just as important to the landscape! Evergreens are often the bones of the garden. They are an integral part of winter, spring, summer and fall. Broadleaf evergreens are the trees and shrubs for all seasons because they have wonderful year round interest!

Rhdodendrons are wonderful for year round screening

The Benefits of Broadleaf Evergreens

They provide year round interest
Great for privacy screening
Drought resistant, once established
Provides habitats for birds and other small animals
Pollinator friendly!
Great for Martha’s Vineyards climate zone 7A (hardier than zone 7A).

Most broadleaf evergreens have a spectacular display of spring blooms!

Luckily they don't typically bloom all at the same time! Pieris japonica and Skimmia are the first to bloom, followed by the rhododendrons then azaleas.

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BROADLEAF EVERGREENS OF THE WEEK

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SKIP CHERRY LAURELS

Skip Cherry Laurels are vibrant evergreen trees that can create dense privacy hedges for any yard. Skip laurels grow to be 10-18 feet tall and 5-7 feet wide, with a moderate growth rate of roughly 24 inches per year. While they thrive in full sunlight, Skip laurels also fare very well in the shade. Their dense foliage is glossy green year-round. In the springtime, you’ll be rewarded with fragrant white blossoms that attract all kinds of pollinators. In fall and winter, Skip laurel trees produce red berries that attract songbirds.

Make excellent privacy screens

Green year-round
Fragrant, white blossoms in spring
Drought-tolerant
Smaller leaves than other laurels give a neat, compact look
Deer-resistant

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MAHONIA

Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’ is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub capable of growing ten feet tall and five feet wide. It has a compact, upright growth habit with large, frond-like leaves that develop in whorls along its coarsely branched stems. Large spikes of fragrant, yellow flowers appear in late fall or early winter. The flowers develop into clusters of waxy blue berries eaten by many bird species. It is a dramatic focal point in the winter garden.

PLANTING TIP
Plant Winter Sun Mahonia in a sheltered, preferably eastern-facing site. It appreciates a moisture-retentive, but draining soil. Place where its blooms and fragrance can be readily appreciated in winter, such as near a path or seating area.

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AZALEAS

This year our spring flowering shrubs include the usual evergreen rhododendrons and azaleas. Azaleas are in the rhododendron family. Azaleas are a genus with many species. There are both evergreen and deciduous varieties available. ‘Most’ deciduous azaleas bloom after the evergreen azaleas. They will bloom on old wood before the plant has leafed out for the year.

Some deciduous, fragrant azaleas that we have available this year are:

Azalea viscosum, native swamp azalea: These bloom a little later and often bloom before the foliage emerges, making them extra showy. The fragrant blooms will perfume your entire property. They get 8-10ft tall and 6-8ft wide.
My Mary: A new yellow, fragrant, deciduous, spring blooming azalea that attracts pollinators and butterflies. It grows 4-5ft tall. (from Fern Brook)
Rhododendron prunifolium: Another azalea that we are carrying new this year. (from Fern Brook). Prunifolium is a species azalea (not a hybrid). It is a native wild azalea and is rare and hard to find. It is the first time we have ever had it!

There are some deciduous Weston hybrids with viscosum that stay smaller. If an 8ft shrub is too big for your spot try one of these :

Lemon Drop: A yellow blooming fragrant deciduous azalea
Innocence: A white blooming fragrant deciduous azalea

To see these deciduous azaleas in their full splendor they will be blooming in a few weeks at the Polly Hill Arboretum!

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BUXUS (BOXWOOD)

This year we will have a great selection of Buxus, an evergreen deer resistant shrub. We have Green Beauty, Green Mountain and Wintergreen Boxwood. We also carry a variegated boxwood, as well as a selection of dwarf boxwoods, including one we propagate from the Polly Hill Arboretum. They do best in some afternoon shade and are a great back drop for deciduous plantings. Buxus typically bloom in May. “Even though the flowers are insignificant, Boxwood is on the RHS 'Plants for Pollinators' list, highlighting plants that produce large amounts of nectar and/or pollen. It is a great choice for encouraging beneficial insect wildlife into your garden!” (Plants | Candide)

Buxus that we have available:

Buxus sempervirens: A new variety we are carrying this year is Buxus sempervirens Dee Runk. This variety has an elegant columnar habit with a soft and lush foliage of ovate, lustrous leaves. Its deep green foliage has shown good resistance to boxwood blight.
Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Winter Gem' : “An excellent evergreen shrub for small hedges. Among the hardiest of the small-leaved boxwoods, the rich green foliage can acquire a golden bronze hue in cold winter zones, but is one of the first to become green again in spring. Makes a wonderful addition to formal gardens, providing year-round interest.” (monrovia)

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HOLLIES

We love hollies at Vineyard Gardens! Chuck Wiley, co-owner of Vineyard Gardens, grew up near a nursery in NJ, called Fernbrook, that grow beautiful American hollies, Ilex opaca. American hollies are more deer resistant than other hollies. They need a male and a female tree nearby for berry production.

American holly, Ilex opaca

“The stout, stiff branches of this pyramidal evergreen bear dark green, non-glossy, spine-tipped leaves. Bright red berries occur on the female plants. Many varieties are grown for ornament, shade, and hedges. You must have both a male and female plant to have berries, The male must be the same holly species as the female and bloom at the same time. This is a slow-growing tree (but slower growing is stronger). Berries are attractive and a good winter food source for birds.” (Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center) The height of American holly grows up to 25ft. They can be pruned to be kept smaller.

Ilex opaca ‘Jersey Knight’: A male cultivar that is considered to be a good pollinator. typically grows to 7-8’ tall and spreads to 3-4’ wide over the first 10 years.
Ilex opaca ‘Jersey Princess’
Ilex opaca ‘Portia Orton’
Ilex opaca ‘Satyr Hill’

Japanese holly, Ilex crenata

“A dense, multi-branched, evergreen shrub with a rounded form that typically matures to 5-10’ tall and as wide. It is native to forests, thickets and mountain slopes in Japan, Korea, China and eastern Russia.. It has glossy, spineless, evergreen, deep green leaves which are attractive all year, white flowers which bloom in late spring (May-June), and black rounded berries which mature in fall on pollinated female plants.” (missouri botanical garden)

Ilex crenata ‘Steeds’

Ilex crenata ‘Helleri’
Ilex Crenata ‘Soft touch’
Ilex crenata ‘Compacta’
Ilex crenata ‘Green Lustre’

Japanese holly, Ilex crenata ‘Green Lustre’

Blue holly, Ilex x meserveae

“Bushy evergreen hybrids are (a) average height to 6-7’ tall, (b) glossy blue green leaves with prominent spiny margins, (c) purple stems, (d) greenish-white flowers in small clusters in May, (e) showy bright red berries on female plants in fall, often persisting until spring, and (f) excellent winter hardiness to USDA Zone 5.” (missouri botanical garden)

Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Maid’
Ilex x meserveae Castle Spire’

other hybrids

Ilex x aquipernyi ‘Dragon Slayer’
Ilex x Oak leaf
Ilex x Koehneana
Ilex x Nellie R Stevens
Ilex x Winter Bounty

Inkberry, Ilex glabra

“A mound-shaped, colony-forming shrub 6-12 ft. tall and wide. Lance-shaped, sparingly-toothed, glossy, leathery foliage varies in color from dark- to light-green both in summer and fall. Inconspicuous flowers are followed by black berries which persist well into winter. This species differs from all other evergreen hollies by lacking spines on the leaves, only having teeth toward the tip of the leaves.” (Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center)

Ilex glabra ‘Compacta’

Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’

Winterberry, Ilex verticillata

“The leaves of Common winterberry are not shaped with sharp teeth like other hollies and are not evergreen. The purplish green foliage turns black, in fact, with the first frost. The inconspicuous flowers, however, are followed by dense clusters of bright red berries that remain on the branches throughout winter. Winterberry is a globular, upright, medium-sized shrub, typically 6-10 ft. tall. Extremely showy in late fall and early winter when covered with their bright red fruit, these shrubs are either male or female--a trait typical of the holly family. Birds are readily attracted to them.” (Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center)

Ilex verticillata Southern Gentleman
Ilex verticillata Winter Gold
Ilex verticillata Winter Red
Ilex verticillata Little Goblin Guy
Ilex verticillata Little Goblin Red

[PLANT PROFILE] CREEPING PHLOX

April 26, 2023 Karen Logan

Creeping Phlox

(Phlox subulata)

A low growing, sun-loving herbaceous perennial that has an exceptional spring bloom. It creates a magnificent carpet of color ranging from red-purple to violet-purple to pink and white in April and May. The flowers are backed by dense green foliage that stays green throughout the summer and fall. It grows 6 in. tall, forming a thick mat up to 3 ft. wide and is known for ‘creeping’.

PHLOX SPECIES

There are many phlox species

Phlox subulata: Creeping phlox, Phlox subulata, is only one species with many cultivars.
Phlox divaricata and Phlox stolonifera: These are woodland phlox that spread and can take partial shade.
Phlox paniculata: This is the most common phlox, the tall English phlox. It does best in full sun.
Phlox drummondii: This is the annual phlox. Annuals, unlike perennials, bloom all summer.

CREEPING PHLOX VARIETIES NOW AVAILABLE

We have a wonderful selection of blooming creeping phlox available at Vineyard Gardens

Emerald Blue
Candy Stripes
Purple Beauty
Red Wings

CARE

Protect from Deer! They do eat Creeping Phlox.
It tolerates dry conditions once established
Good soil drainage is important
Cut back stems after flowering by 1/2 to maintain form and promote denser growth plus to stimulate a possible light rebloom.

WHERE TO PLANT

Perfect accent in a rock garden
Beautiful mixed with annuals.
Spreads easily on slopes & banks
Great along pathways
Attractive groundcover & border plant
Loves to cascade over walls!
GREAT FOR BUTTERFLIES & INSECT POLLINATORS!

HAPPY GARDENING!

SPRING FLOWERING SHRUBS

April 21, 2023 Karen Logan

Lilac illustration by karen blackerby logan

SPRING FLOWERING SHRUBS

Fragrant shrubs are a great reason to landscape your property. Plant them on your patio,deck or walkways. Plant them where the fragrance will fill your relaxing spaces, your outdoor spaces, where you socialize or simply beneath a window where the fragrance can filter into your home.

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VIBURNUM

The early spring blooming viburnum flowers are extremely fragrant. Viburnums will do well in full sun to part shade. They are used as specimens in shrub borders, foundation plantings, as hedges or screens. They are attractive to butterflies and birds and tolerate a broad range of soil conditions, including poor or compacted soils. Prune right after flowering.

Viburnum carlessi ‘Korean Spice Viburnum’ : Now available at our nursery. It can grow up to 7ft tall and wide.
Viburnum carlcephalum ‘Fragrant Snowball Viburnum’: A multi stemmed, deciduous shrub that gets 6-10ft tall and wide. It is a cross between Viburnum carlessi and Viburnum microcephalum. These Viburnums bloom better in more sun.
Viburnum burkwoodi: A multi stemmed shrub that is a little more compact, reaching 3-5ft tall and up to 7ft wide. It received the Pennsylvania Society Gold Medal award.

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LILACS

Lilacs are known for their fragrance and will soon be blooming. Only plant lilacs in sunny spots. The vulgaris species, with its large leaves, can get powdery mildew if in a shaded area.

I have heard horticulturists say the straight species Syringa vulgaris is the most fragrant but actually they are all fragrant.
Pocahontas has a deep purple color
Charles Joly is a cranberry colored award winner
Try the white blooming Vulgaris lilac
Miss Kim is a smaller lilac. Miss Kim gets around 5ft tall with light lavender fragrant flowers. Great for your foundation planting as long as it is sunny.
The Syringa meyeri is another smaller species of lilac whose smaller leaves are resistant to powdery mildew.
The cultivar Palibin has won both the Royal horticultural award and the Gold medal award.

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ROSES

Roses will arrive at the end of April and many are known for their intoxicating fragrance. We carry many cultivars of the David Austin Shrub roses which are known for their fragrance. The pink New Dawn climber has been a fragrant best seller for years.

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HONEYSUCKLE

The fragrant honeysuckle, Lonicera fragrantissima, blooms in early spring and will fill your entire property with a lemony scent. Originally native to China it has been introduced through out the world. In some places it can be invasive if conditions are perfect. Let us know if you want one and we will propagate it for you.

Honeysuckle vines are also fragrant. Lonicera sempervirens ‘Major wheeler’ is a non-stop bloomer, coloring the garden from late spring through the summer with showy clusters of orange-red flowers. It is considered to be the longest blooming variety of honeysuckle and a superior flower for the hummingbirds.

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CLEMATIS

This Clematis Vine by Proven Winners and Sweet Summer Love are fragrant clematis. Sweet Summer Love is also a profuse bloomer and can get up to 10 ft.

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AZALEAS

Many azaleas are fragrant, particularly the deciduous ones. We have a native yellow azalea called My Mary, that is very fragrant when it blooms and has a 5 star rating.

Azaleas are part of the Rhododendron family. These plants like a rich acidic humus rich soil and afternoon shade. They are shallow rooted and need to be moist. Water often.

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CLETHRA

Clethra is another fragrant later blooming shrub that can be planted now. We carry the straight species, Ruby spice (the award winning pink blooming), the dwarf Hummingbird and Sixteen candles. The newer Proven Winner varieties are known for their fragrance, like Vanilla spice. Clethra are native to the island.

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OTHER FRAGRANT SHRUBS

There are many other fragrant plants available.

The Daphnes are very fragrant and many are hardy. We usually carry Carol Mackie, as well as others including Daphne odora, which is marginally hardy.

Many non hardy plants are fragrant and bloom all summer long but will not overwinter unless protected. Try them in containers and give them some winter protection. We recommend one of the Gardenias we bring in from Monrovia.

[PLANT PROFILE] FORGET ME NOTS

April 13, 2023 Karen Logan

FORGET ME NOTS

(MYOSOTIS)

ORIGIN

Myosotis is a Greek word meaning mouse’s ear which it’s foliage is thought to resemble. It is native to Europe and is in the family Boraginacea.

AN EARLY SEASON PLANT

We sell them early in the season in 5” black perennial pots.

This year our Forget Me Nots (Myosotis) are available in blue and pink. We do not carry pink every year.
The Myosotis we carry is Myosotis sylvatica or woodland Myosotis.
Forget Me Nots readily reseed themselves and will make their home throughout your garden. This is a good thing but it can also be a problem that is easily solved with a little weeding. Pull them out where you do not want them. Yet with their pretty blue flowers in early summer you may have trouble pulling them out! Another way to control their spread is to deadhead them right after flowering before they have time to set seed and spread.
They are beautiful flowers to have in a woodland border.

Forget Me Nots are only available in Spring!

GREENS & COOL WEATHER CROPS

March 31, 2023 Karen Logan

St. Patrick's Day is traditionally when you plant your peas out in the garden. If you missed it we've got you covered. Peas like to do most of their growth in cool temperatures

GREENS & COOL WEATHER CROPS

“It's nearly springtime when a person’s thoughts should hopefully turn to ....... vegetables! That's right it's time to start our vegetable gardens. Even though our frost free date is technically May 1st, this is a great time of year to start our cool loving vegetables. There are many vegetables that can handle the light frosts we get this time of year. If a colder night were to be predicted, in the high 20s, you can cover your freshly planted vegetables with Reemay, plastic or an old sheet to protect them from the frost. At this point, most greens can be planted and some, like spinach, do much better in cooler weather than in the summer. Broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are known as cole crops, which sounds like cold crops, all do very well planted at this time a year too. While kids don't always like the spicy taste of radishes, they are a great vegetable for them to plant as they come up in a matter of days and are ready to pick in a few short weeks. “ - Chuck Wiley , owner & founder of Vineyard Gardens Landscaping

We always start a bountiful selection of leafy salad greens

Leafy greens like cooler temperatures to produce quick, tender leaves for your salads and cooking. the earlier you get them in the ground the better!

COMING SOON!

VEGGIE SIX PACKS ARE GROWING IN OUR GREENHOUSES NOW!

Our spring supply of vegetables in packs will be ready soon!

PEAS: Don’t forget to plant your peas. Soak before seeding, it speeds up germination. They imbibe and more easily split the seed coat so the radicle can anchor itself down to become the root system. The two cotyledons then emerge, sometimes the seed coat stays attached to one of the cotyledons. It’s so beautiful watching the birth of a plant. We have hundreds of plants being born every day at Vineyard Gardens.

BROCCOLIS: We will have a variety of broccolis in packs, such as Calabrese, Romanesco, Waltham and Cauliflower Snowball.

WE WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL SELECTION OF IN-HOUSE GREENS!

Lettuces, Kales, Mustards, Collards and Asian vegetables like Pac Choi and Tatsoi can go in the soil very soon!

do this before

planting out your beans & peas!

[PLANT PROFILE] ASPARAGUS

March 29, 2023 Karen Logan

ASPARAGUS COMING SOON!

WE WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THEY ARRIVE. ONCE THEY ARRIVE THERE IS A SHORT PLANTING WINDOW!

In the past we carried Jersey Giant and Purple Passion.

“There are a few perennial vegetables which actually are some of the easiest ones to grow. My all-time favorite is asparagus which can live for 20 or more years. Asparagus continually get bigger and more productive with just a little bit of care. The most important way to care for them is to keep the weeds out in order for them to thrive. They are one of the first vegetables to come up every spring and are absolutely delicious and healthy. “ Chuck Wiley, owner & founder of Vineyard Gardens Landscaping

GROWING

Asparagus are a long lived perennial and should be planted in a dedicated bed.

Asparagus requires well drained fertile soil and can not tolerate wet feet.
Ensure planting site is well weeded.
Plant in full sun.
An excellent weed killing technique is to cover with cardboard 8 weeks prior to planting.
Make an 8” deep trench with a 4” ridge and loose soil down the middle.
Plant one bare root asparagus every 1’ between plants and 3’ between rows.
Splay the long roots down the sides of the ridge.
Water well to establish.
Top dress asparagus bed with plenty of premium compost every fall.
Since the roots are deep, you can hoe out weeds to about 3” deep as long as you do it before March 15th.

HARVESTING

Plants need to establish for 2 or 3 seasons before their first harvest, then they have abundant yields.

In the third year, harvest tender spring shoots at about 4.5”.

Do not harvest until shoots are pencil thick.

GET YOUR HANDS MUDDY & HAVE FUN!

[PLANT PROFILE] PANSIES & VIOLAS

March 22, 2023 Karen Logan

Pansy illustration by karen blackerby logan

PANSIES & VIOLAS

“Kids love the story of the fairy that lives in the pansy flower that Lauren Crosby made up. She would tell the story to kids during field trips to Vineyard Gardens. First she would carefully peel the outer 5 petals, one at a time. Exposing the female reproductive structure standing tall in the center. This was the fairy that lived inside the pansy.” -Chris Wiley, owner&founder at Vineyard Gardens Nursery

A BRIEF HISTORY

Pansies & Violas are of the genus Viola. The original plant species was viola tricolor, a wildflower of Europe and Central Asia. To the modern horticulturist, the pansy is the larger of the two flowering cultivars. The pansy is a hybrid plant cultivated as a garden flower. The name pansy is derived from the word pensee meaning “thought” and was regarded as a symbol of remembrance.

CARE & INFORMATION

Both do well in full sun or partial shade and need well drained soil. They like cool weather and can survive light frosts, snow and even sometimes overwinter. They are one of the first flowers available in spring.
They tend to get long and leggy in the heat of summer. Dead heading will extend bloom.
They dry beautifully when laid flat within pages of heavy books, and once dried can be used to make cards or other art projects.

EVERGREENS FOR SCREENING

September 28, 2022 Karen Logan

EVERGREENS FOR SCREENING

Evergreens retain their foliage for a full year or more and are classified as either conifers or broadleaf evergreens. Coniferous plants belong to the phylum gymnosperms which are plants that bear cones instead of flowers as reproductive structures. Their leaves are called either needles or scales. These are adaptations for survival in tough windy droughty conditions, like on top of mountains. While broad leaf evergreens have flowers that produce seeds and belong to the phylum Angiosperms, the flowering plants. They are beautiful and functional! Both conifers and broadleaf evergreens are a wonderful asset to your landscape and for screening.

SCREENING is one of the most requested landscape functions. This can seem like a very simple request however from the grower’s perspective it is much more complex and dependent on budget and environment.

BUDGET: How much you have to spend on screening directly correlates to the amount of time it will take to achieve your end goal. The bigger the tree, grass or shrub, the more expensive it is and the more work it is to install. Faster growing plants are not always an ideal option. A fast growing plant can be weak wooded, suffering from high winds or winter damage, or the plant could be invasive and outgrow its location. Even very large transplants can take a couple of years to re-set their supporting root systems. The most economical and hardiest solution is to start your screening "vision" with smaller plants that can quickly establish themselves with slower growth screening behind.

ENVIRONMENT: The Island may be small but it is very diverse in terrain and habitats. What would work for a screen in Vineyard Haven will not necessarily work for screening on the north shore in Chilmark. There are many different soils, exposures and pests that can modify your choices. Deer are a big problem up island and poor, sandy soils are a problem in Oak Bluffs. Some areas have clay soils that cause poor drainage that can slowly kill off new plantings. Some have ample available water that can cause problems for plants like Juniper that are adapted to poor, dry soils. It may help to remember that what you see above ground is only half of the plant, what goes on below is perhaps even more important.

*Layered screening with large Thuja plicatas that give wonderful privacy*

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CONIFERS WE’D LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT

Picea Abies (Norway Spruce). A fast growing evergreen. Growing on average of 13 inches per year! This is ideal for planting on the island because it grows in acidic, loamy, sandy, well drained & clay soils.
Cupressocyparis Leylandii (Leyland Cypress). Grows at least 24" per year. Also ideal for island growing conditions, except for near the shore, where salt and wind can cause irreversible damage.

Pinus Strobus (Eastern White Pine). Prefers acidic, moist, well drained soil. This evergreen grows at least 24" each year.
Thuja plicata Green Giant: We have been carrying this cultivar for years. This specific variety can get up to 60' tall! Many use arborvitae as screening for privacy on their properties, as well as a windbreaker. We have them in several sizes.
Thuja plicata Virginian: This year we received a new cultivar of arborvitae from Worthington Farms, introduced as Thuja 'Green Giants' little sister. Thuja Virginian grows only 15' tall x 6' wide in ten years. Grows 1 to 2 feet yearly. It is also known to be deer resistant! They are beautiful and make great screening. We offer 3 different sizes up to 9'.

BENEFITS OF EVERGREENS

Provide year round interest
Great for privacy screening
Provides habitats for birds and other small animals
Drought resistant, once established
Pollinator friendly!
Great for Martha’s Vineyards climate zone 7A (hardier than zone 7A).

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Pinpoint Blue’

Broadleaf evergreens make excellent screening as well!

Plants like Hollies, rhododendrons, cherry laurels and andromedas are great, especially for areas that are shady.

VIBURNUM

September 21, 2022 Karen Logan

VIBURNUM

Viburnum are a very popular landscape shrub, both attractive and useful. With the many cultivars available it’s likely to find one to suit your garden. Fragrant viburnums flower in the spring and gives way to berries in the fall. If you’d like your viburnum to produce berries for the birds, you'll need to plant several different varieties that bloom at the same time so plants can cross-pollinate.

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Fall Interest Viburnums

There are many viburnums which have fabulous fall color and berries.

Viburnum trilobum (Highbush Cranberry): Known for its berry production in the fall. Dark green leaves turn purplish-red in autumn, alongside drooping clusters of bright red berries. Typically matures to 8-12 feet tall.
Viburnum plicatum: These are Chris Wiley’s favorite Viburnum in flower.
Viburnum dilatatum 'Cardinal Candy': Known for their drooping red berries.
Viburnum dilatatum 'Michael Dodge': Known for their drooping yellow berries.

Viburnum dilatatum ‘Michael Dodge’ and some Virginia Creeper

Native Viburnums

Viburnum dentatum (arrowwood viburnum): Native to Martha’s Vineyard, Viburnum dentatum grows wild all over Chilmark and the woods of West Tisbury.. Non-fragrant flat-topped white flowers appear in late spring. Flowers give way to blue-black, berries which are quite attractive to birds and wildlife. Tolerates light shade. It is useful in restoration projects or in natural plantings. Deer resistant. We carry a cultivar called Blue Muffin.

Evergreen Viburnums

Viburnum 'Pragense (Prague viburnum): Creamy white flowers in spring gives way to berries in early fall which first appear red and then change to glossy black. Typically matures to 10-12 feet tall. Plant in full sun to part shade.
Viburnum rhytidophyllum (Leatherleaf viburnum): A large rough textured evergreen shrub. Creamy white flowers in spring.

Fragrant Spring Blooming Viburnums

Viburnum carlessi (Korean Spice viburnum): A wonderfully fragrant cultivar. Reddish pink buds open in late March/early April and progress into 3” snowball like clusters of fragrant blooms. Plant in sun to part shade. Typically matures to 4-5 feet tall but may reach a height of 8' in the right conditions.
Viburnum carlocephalum (Fragrant Viburnum): A multi stemmed shrub with an open and rounded form. Fragrant snow-ball type blooms in the spring and reddish fall color. Fruit production happens best when planted in groups. Good drought tolerance once established. Grows 6-10 feet tall and wide.
Viburnum burkwoodii (Burkwood Viburnum): An early spring beauty is Viburnum x burkwoodii which is from a group of Viburnums called Korean Spice or Snowball Viburnum. Burkwood Viburnum grows quite large, under ideal conditions 10’ x 10. It blooms clusters of pinkish white spring flowers with an insanely delicious fragrance in late April-early May. Beautiful dark green foliage. Use as a hedge, screen or accent plant.

Viburnum x burkwoodii [photo credit: keith kurman]

[PLANT PROFILE] LOBELIA

September 12, 2022 Karen Logan

LOBELIA

30% off

A North American native plant that has spires of colorful hood-like flowers that open from bottom to top. Lobelias are typically found in wet, swampy soil or woodlands. They are a perfect choice for low spots in your garden that stay too wet for most plants. Although, given enough water Lobelias will be fine with more sun. They are an excellent choice for partial shade gardens.

Two perennial species we carry are Lobelia siphilitica, the Native Great Blue, and Lobelia cardinalis, Cardinal flower.

We carry the Lobelia cardinalis in its native green leaf form, as well as Queen Victoria, a red leaf form that won the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. A newer cardinalis hybrid we are offering is the Starship Series. This series is a little shorter and better branched. We usually have it in scarlet, rose and sometimes blue.

**Lobelia Starship Deep Rose & Scarlet Bronze Leaf**

**Lobelia Starship Deep Rose & Scarlet Bronze Leaf**. Rich bronze or purple foliage throughout the growing season. Adds a bold color for the late summer to early autumn garden.

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CARE

Prefer fertile, evenly moist soil.
Can be divided every 2-3 years in spring.
Allow to self sow.
Winter over with stems on.
Can be pinched back before flowering to produce more compact plants

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USES

Woodland paths
Perennial beds and border gardens with moist, well-drained soil.
Given enough water they can be fine with more sun.
Great choice for partial shade gardens
Well-suited for use in rain gardens, around ponds and streams and other moist areas.

Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Pairs well with ferns or heuchera.

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES FOR FALL COLOR

September 7, 2022 Karen Logan

GRASSES FOR FALL COLOR

30% OFF

Ornamental Grasses have been very popular for decades. They serve many purposes from adding backdrops, texture or a natural feeling to a landscape and are often used in restoration projects. Most of them fare best in full hot sun, are drought tolerant and do not need rich soil. Typically, there is no maintenance once established.

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES WE CARRY:

For years we have carried many cultivars of miscanthus, panicum & Pennisetum

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MISCANTHUS

Miscanthus sinensis (Maiden Grass): Miscanthus sinensis is the genus and species. Cosmopolitan, Morning light, Gracillimus, Adagio and Purpurescens are all cultivars of Miscanthus sinensis. We have a wonderful selection of Miscanthus. It is a low maintenance, deer resistant, ornamental grass commonly planted in groups along a border, for privacy screening, along edges of beds and are excellent for container planting. It has silvery-green foliage that turns golden-bronze in autumn and has spectacular plumes in late summer. The plumes on the Miscanthus dry beautifully for winter bouquets or effect in the late fall, early winter landscape. Late winter, with snow and rain pounding, it starts to fall apart. Maiden Grass thrives in full sun and may get 6 feet wide with a 10 foot spread.
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light' : Dense clusters of slender, green and white blades. Reddish tint on blades throughout winter. Great texture for beds and borders.
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Cosmopolitan' : Wide green and white strap like leaves with showy feathery plumes. In bloom, Cosmopolitan can get 8-10ft tall when it’s happy. It is upright and the foliage may appear a little pendulous when it’s in bloom because the plumes are so straight and tall. Full sun to light shade. Highly salt tolerant and prefers moist to well drained soils.
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Variegatus' : Beautiful, wide cream and green striped foliage. Grows to 5ft by mid-September with red-tinted blooms. Best in full sun. Great as a screen, backdrop or border plant.
- Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’: Upright structure with all green, narrow, finer foliage. When in bloom reaches 6 -8ft tall.
- Miscanthus sinensis ‘Adagio’: A dwarf maiden grass that reaches 3 - 4ft tall.
- Miscanthus sinensis ‘Purpurescens’: Turns flaming red in late fall and is really the only one to have good fall color.

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PANICUM

Panicum virgatum (Switch Grass): Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. A clump-forming, warm season grass which typically grows 3' -6' tall. Bright green leaves occur up and down the stem, turning bright yellow in fall. Flowers in mid-summer with finely-textured, pink-tinged, branched panicles. The seed plumes stay through winter and are a good food source for birds.
- Panicum virgatum 'Cloud Nine' (Switchgrass)
  One of the tallest varieties. Large rose colored seed panicles envelop the upright bluish foliage. Seed panicles turn golden shades in fall. Ideal wildlife habitat providing shelter and food for songbirds.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Red Switchgrass)
  Upright foliage becomes red tinted during the growing season, culminating in a dazzling red-leaved show in fall. Drought tolerant and easy to maintain.
- Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' (Blue Switchgrass)
  Upright habit with metallic blue foliage. Pink-tinted, airy blooms appear in July, highlighting the color of its blue leaves. Great planted in masses.

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PENNISETUM

Pennisetum alopecuroides (Fountain Grass): A beautiful addition to your garden with its cascading foliage and nonstop drama. Pennisetum has finely textured foliage and an elegant form. Flowers in late summer, with showy white, pink, copper or black, bottle brush shaped spikes. In autumn the leaves turn orange-bronze. The leaves and flower spikes sway in the breeze adding movement to the landscape. The plumes make fabulous cut flowers. Fountain grass is easily grown in most soils and does best in full sun.
- Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'
  Features deep green leaves in summer changing to golden yellow in fall and fading to beige in late fall. Showy, silvery to pinkish-white, bristly, bottle brush-like flower spikes arch outward from the clump in late summer. Form 2-3' tall and wide compact clumps .
- Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Moudry'
  Black fountain grass. 'Moudry' provides excellent texture, color and contrast to borders, foundations and open areas. It is most noted for its distinctive black flower spikes. Grows 2-3' tall and wide. The plumes are great cut flowers.

Pennisetum Moudry: Black fountain grass blooms in late summer.

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We ALSO carry a variety of cultivars and species in addition to our long standing grasses:

Calamagrostis acutiflora (Feather Reed Grass): For years we only carried Karl Foerster, now we carry a variety of Feather Reed Grasses
- Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass
- 'Overdam' Feather Reed Grass
- Calamagrostis brachytricha (Korean Feather Reed Grass): Another very beautiful species of Feather Reed Grass
Phalaris arundinacea (Ribbon grass)
- We especially like the cultivar Strawberries and Cream for its pink tones on the foliage.
Carex: This is actually a sedge and not a grass but grasses, sedges and rushes have always been grouped together and we will continue this tradition. We carry several cultivars of Carex.
- Carex ‘Ice Dance” (Japanese Sedge): Chuck’s favorite
- Carex plantaginea: Andrew loves this cultivar
- Carex comans ‘Bronze’: Chris loves this cultivar with its reddish hues in fall.
- Carex buchananii 'Red Rooster': Chris also loves Red Rooster which is tall and upright.
Chasmanthium latifolius (Northern Sea Oats): Has the prettiest seed pod.
Hackonechloa grasses: They will take some shade and appear weeping with their pendulous habit.
- Hackonechloa macra (Hakone Grass): Green tones
- Hackonechloa macra ‘All Gold’: Yellow tones
- Hackonechloa macra ‘Aureola’: Variegated.
Schitzachyrium scoparium (Little Blue Stem Grass): Honored with the perennial plant of the year award for 2022. ‘The Blues’ is a popular old cultivar and there are many new cultivars. All of them remain true to Little Bluestem’s legacy of drought tolerance, low maintenance and natural beauty. We see Little Bluestem as one of the hottest grasses in the trade. It brings high ecological value and a fresh look to modern landscapes. Many years ago Schitzachyrium was grouped together with Andropogon. It was determined to be different enough to make it its own genus.
- Schitzachyrium scoparium ‘The Blues’
- Schitzachyrium scoparium ‘Standing Ovation’
- Schitzachyrium scoparium ‘Blue Heaven’
Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem): We carry several Andropogon.
- Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’: A dark foliage cultivar called Blackhawks is a favorite.
Sporobolis heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed): A native grass often used in restoration projects.
Sesleria autumnalis (Autumn Moor Grass): Sesleria is a European native often used in America as a ground cover. Sesleria autumnalis received the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.
Festuca glauca and Helictotrichon sempervirens: We carry these grasses for their glaucous foliage. They are great along the border or in containers and like all grasses are low maintenance and drought tolerant once established.
Ophiopogons
- Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' (Black Mondo) A black grass
- Ophiopogon japonicus (Dwarf Mondo Grass) A dwarf version
Bouteloua gracilis: Our newest grass. A prairie native with unusual seed heads.

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Carex Red Rooster in ornamental planters

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We also carry a few ornamental grasses that will not overwinter In our zone 7 island.

Muhlenbergia capillaris touts to be Hardy to zone 5 but it will not overwinter for us. The pink plumes in the late afternoon are the prettiest thing you’ll ever see. We keep on trying it because it should be hardy!
Pennisetum Rubrum & Pennisetum Fireworks: Both have wonderful foliage color and are fabulous as ‘thrillers’ in pots.
Pennisetum Purple Majesty & Pennisetum Prince: We highlight these in the fall because they have a great fall effect with dark foliage and large plumes. However, they will not survive the island winters.

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perennial plant of the year

**Schitzachyrium scoparium**

[PLANT PROFILE] CRAPE MYRTLE

September 6, 2022 Karen Logan

Lagerstroemia

[CRAPE MYRTLE]

An all-season performer that shows off colorful foliage in fall, attractive exfoliating bark in winter and showy flowers in the summer! Crape Myrtle bloom from July to September, with some varieties blooming until first frost. Flowers have a crepe like texture and range in color from red, purple, pink, orchid and white. There are several varieties that range in size from 2-foot shrubby dwarfs to large trees.

Crape Myrtles’ showy flowers adds a punch of color in late summer & early fall.

Crape Myrtle (front), Rudbeckia & Hibiscus

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HISTORY

Better known by their common name of Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia is a genus of about 50 plants native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The Genus is named after the director of the Swedish East India Company, Magnus van Lagerstrom, who supplied Carl Linnaeus with plants he collected.

Only 2 species are primarily used in gardening and landscape horticulture. The Lagerstroemia indica from China and Korea was introduced to Charleston, North Carolina in 1790 by French botanist Andre Michaux. In the wild it is a large multi stemmed shrub but 200 years of cultivation have resulted in a huge number of cultivars with varying characteristics.

Another species from Japan Lagerstroemia fauriei is becoming increasingly important as a landscape plant and as a parent in hybrids with L. Indica. This species is more resistant to fungal diseases, has highly ornamental bark and is more cold hardy than L. Indica making it valuable as genetic material for hybridization.

FALL IS A GREAT TIME TO PLANT. allowS CRAPE MYRTLE time to establish their roots before going dormant in winter.

CARE

Prefer full sun. The more sun the more blooms!
Once established, Crape Myrtles are quite drought tolerant.
They need good drainage.
A common mistake is over-pruning.
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USES
Crape myrtles make great additions to any size garden. Some ideas for how to use them:
Plant multiple dwarf or medium-size varieties together to form a hedge.
Use dwarf varieties as colorful additions in borders and beds.
Dwarf varieties make excellent choices for large containers.
A good choice near walkways and driveways.
Use larger varieties as an individual accent

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we have dwarf varieties available to add to your garden if you don’t have space for a larger speciman.

Crape Myrtle ‘Like a Latte’ [photo: walters gardens]

CRAPE MYRTLE VARIETIES WE HAVE AVAILABLE

Lagerstroemia 'Like A Latte' (Dwarf)

Lagerstroemia 'Barista Cherry Mocha' (Dwarf)

Lagerstroemia 'Tuscarora'

Lagerstroemia 'Tonto'

Lagerstroemia 'Muskogee'

Lagerstroemia 'Muskogee Lavender'

Lagerstroemia 'Natchez White'

Lagerstroemia 'Cherry Mocha' [photo: walters garden]

Crape Myrtle ‘Tuscarora’ [photo: monrovia]

Crape Myrtle ‘Muskogee’ [photo credit: monrovia]

[PLANT PROFILE] ANEMONE

September 1, 2022 Karen Logan

*Anemone [illustration by karen blackerby logan]*

JAPANESE ANEMONE

[WINDFLOWER]

A common name for Anemone is windflower because the delicate poppy-like flowers sway in the breeze. The Greek word anemos translates as "wind."

Japanese Anemones add a wonderful splash of color to the autumn garden when other perennials are beginning to fade. With one of the longest bloom times, they are a great season extender in a perennial garden. They spread when they are happy and can tolerate moist soils!

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CARE

Japanese Anemones are fabulous perennials that thrive ideally in a little afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun as long as the soil is moist.
They prefer rich, moist soil. Water the plants regularly when it does not rain.
Bloom time: Mid-Summer to Late Fall 6-8 weeks

USES

Borders, cottage gardens, coastal gardens, naturalized areas such as meadows

White anemomes stand out nicely at night. White gardens are sometimes called moonlight gardens .where the white flowers light up at night.

Japanese Anemone and Impatiens balfourii [photo by keith kurman] *Anemones contain basal leaf clumps from which long flower stems grow to support delicate flowers.*

Japanese anemone bloom abundantly from mid-summer to late fall, giving gardeners a shade-loving alternative to the autumn mums and asters.

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JAPANESE ANEMONES WE CARRY AT VINEYARD GARDENS

Japanese Anemones are mostly hybrids. Some are taller than others, up to 3 feet. The more popular ones are single flowers but we often carry a pink double called Pamina. Next year we are ordering a white double called Whirlwind.

Wild Swan: White with a bluish tinge behind the petals
Honorine Jobert: White single flowers
September Charm: Pink single flowers
Robustissima: Pink single flowers
Bressingham Glow: Pink flowers
Pamina: Pink double flowers

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Japanese Anemone in their full glory and the bees taking it all in!

[PLANT PROFILE] CLERODENDRUM

August 1, 2022 Karen Logan

CLERODENDRUM TRICHOTOMUM

[HARLEQUIN GLORY-BOWER]

In mid-summer and fall Clerodendrum adds a striking show when other woody plants are not in bloom!

MID-SUMMER BLOOM

Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glory-Bower) is the only Clerodendrum hardy this far north. A deer resistant, flowering, deciduous shrub that begins blooming mid-summer with fragrant soft white flowers. The flowers have a sweet delicate aroma and are large enough to make a statement. A great addition to a late season garden when many other shrubs are not in bloom.

FALL INTEREST

In the fall, Clerodendrum has a wonderful effect. The flowers turn into a very interesting seed pod, bright purplish-blue berries adorned by thick star-shaped red calyces. In addition, the foliage changes into a beautiful yellow fall color. A show stopper indeed!

Clerodendrum has large heart shaped leaves which produce a peanut odor when crushed.

attracts Hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees & other pollinators!

WHERE TO PLANT

Clerodendrum is a large shrub that grows between 8-10’ tall.
Stands best alone because it takes over. Plant it where it has plenty of room to spread and colonize. It will spread as far as you let it but it can be controlled.
Full sun to part shade. Clerodendrum prefers full sun for best shape and flowering but can tolerate and flower in partial shade. In partial shade, it’s already loose habit will be even more open.

“Our Clerodendrum is blooming now and fills our entire patio with a sweet fragrance!” Chris Wiley, co-owner Vineyard Gardens

Clerodendrum trichotomum in the spring/early summer

[PLANT PROFILE] CALYCANTHUS

July 19, 2022 Karen Logan

CALYCANTHUS 'APHRODITE’

Calycanthus 'Aphrodite', a Proven Winners selection, is a cross between our native calycanthus and Asian species x Sinocalycanthus. It is a large shrub with glossy leaves that can grow between 5-10ft tall by 5-10ft wide. Calycanthus 'Aprodite' does well in full sun and can also handle partial shade.

FERTILIZING HYDRANGEAS

July 7, 2022 Karen Logan

Hydrangea [illustration by karen blackerby logan]

FERTILIZING HYDRANGEAS IN EARLY SUMMER

by Lorraine Ballato

July 5, 2022 / Fertilizing Hydrangeas, Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf), Hydrangea serrata (Mountain)

I have spent the past 2 days fertilizing my hydrangeas. Which ones, you ask. Well, read on about Fertilizing Hydrangeas In Early Summer.

My experience is that all hydrangeas grow better when they are fertilized, even the native ones. It’s one of the lessons I learned from our Covid lockdown. I actually had the time to do this and, WOW! did it pay off.

WHY FEED YOUR PLANTS IN EARLY SUMMER

If you missed feeding your plants early in the season when you did your spring clean up, you can make up for that now. BTW, “now” in the northern hemisphere means before August 1. That’s because fertilizing will stimulate your plant and you don’t want to do that too late in the season.

The plants that respond best to fertilizer this time of year are the rebloomers: big leaf (macrophylla), mountain (serrata) and woodland/smooth (arborescens) varieties. You want to help them produce those reblooming flowers to carry your garden through to the end of the season.

HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU HAVE A REBLOOMER

If you don’t know if your mountain or big leaf hydrangea is a rebloomer, look to see where the flowers are positioned. If they are coming from along the sides of the stems, you have rebloomer. It’s that simple.

**Reblooming hydrangea flowers along length of the stem**

FEEDING YOUR PLANTS

There are differing opinions on fertilizing your hydrangeas. I am firmly in the camp of helping hydrangeas thrive and have learned it is especially beneficial if your soil needs improvement. A soil test will help you figure that out. The results of fertilizing are more than encouraging and I am convinced this is a worthwhile practice.

THE REASONS TO FERTILIZE HYDRANGEAS IN EARLY SUMMER

Remember that on rebloomers, the more you cut the tips, the more flowers you will get along the stem for later season color. So your rebloomers will appreciate the extra nutrients to continue to put out new flowers. Deadheading and/or cutting flowers for bouquets also stimulate the plant to grow new stems for future flowers. So don’t be reluctant to do that and add beauty to your indoor spaces (office, kitchen, etc.).

Even if your plant is not a rebloomer, the mid-season fertilizer will help it set buds for next year later this season. It’s not rocket science.

FEEDING OTHER KINDS OF HYDRANGEAS

Feeding your other hydrangeas, although helpful, isn’t necessary. The old wood bloomers are all pretty self sufficient, unless you have an issue that needs to be remedied. Or you missed feeding them earlier this season.

**Panicle hydrangea used as companion plant for a stand of woodland hydrangeas**

THE BEST FERTILIZER FOR HYDRANGEAS

Rose food is ideal as is any granulated shrub fertilizer, either organic or a time release product. I don’t recommend products like 10-10-10. No plant uses nutrients in equal amounts so when you use 10-10-10, what you are doing is contributing to run-off and local pollution issues.

**Rose-tone Fertilizer Is very good for hydrangeas**

WATCH OUT FOR TICKS

Fertilizing hydrangeas forces you to get down at the ground level, sometimes crawling beneath your plant. That action may disturb ticks that then light on you. Whenever I do this early summer fertilizing, I always pick up several ticks. So do be aware and do a tick check regularly, especially after fertilizing.

PINCH PRUNING COMES NEXT

I’ll be back in a few days to discuss mid-season pinch-pruning, maybe topping your plant, and using those cuttings to propagate new plants. The fun is just beginning!

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Check out hydrangea specialist, Lorraine Ballato’s insightful website packed with excellent information on all things hydrangea!

SUCCESS WITH HYDRANGEAS

book by lorraine ballato

HYDRANGEA LOVERS

facts about hydrangeas

[PLANT PROFILE] HEUCHERA

June 30, 2022 Karen Logan

HEUCHERA

(CORAL BELLS)

Foliage Stars of the Shade Garden

When it comes to perennials that combine long-lasting beauty, versatility, and ecological benefits, few plants rival Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells. These North American natives are prized for their dazzling foliage and delicate blooms, making them a favorite in shade gardens, woodland edges, and even containers.

Not Just Pretty Leaves

While many gardeners love Heucheras for their richly colored leaves, from lime green to burgundy and even dark purple, their graceful flowers are not to be overlooked. Each summer, tall flower stalks rise above the foliage, blooming for 3-4 weeks with airy, bell-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds. The flowers of Heuchera sanguinea give the plant its common name, Coral Bells, with vivid cerise blooms native to warm, dry canyons in Mexico, Arizona, and New Mexico.

A Foliage Powerhouse

Heucheras are truly standout foliage plants. Their rosettes of textured leaves stick around from early spring through late fall, and some cultivars are even semi-evergreen in mild climates. With a low, mounding habit, most varieties reach 8–12 inches in height and 1–2 feet in spread, while the flower spikes add height, 1-3 feet, during bloom.

There has been an explosion of Heucheras cultivars in the last decade. Hybridization is common, due to the fact that the species often intergrade with one another. The increasingly popular Heucherellas (Heuchera × Tiarella) combine the best traits of both parent plants.

Try planting ground covers instead of mulching. They are just as effective, if not more so, at keeping out the weeds!

Heuchera americana ‘Dales Strain’, the one we do from seed.

Where & How to Plant

Light:

Most Heucheras thrive in partial shade or dappled sunlight, but many red and yellow-leafed varieties tolerate more sun.
In the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, shade is usually best for optimal performance.

Soil & Water:

Plant in well-drained, compost-rich soil. Keep consistently moist, especially in containers.
Heucheras are ideal for woodland gardens, rock gardens, slopes, and as ground covers beneath trees and shrubs.

Heucheras are DEER REISISTANT!

Design Pairings & Garden Uses

Heucheras are beautiful alone but shine even more when paired with other foliage-rich or shade-loving perennials:

Great companions: Ferns, caladiums, hostas, bleeding hearts, iris, astilbe
Ideal uses: Mass plantings, underplanting for trees and shrubs, borders, container gardens, and ground cover alternatives to mulch
Tip: Consider replacing traditional mulch with ground covers like Heuchera. Not only are they effective at suppressing weeds, they add beauty and habitat too.

Our Favorites

Heuchera villosa ‘Autumn Bride’: A native cultivar with large green leaves and tall white blooms. Especially striking when planted in mass and blends beautifully with other plants.
Heuchera americana ‘Dale’s Strain’: One of several we grow from seed. It’s a reliable, low-maintenance ground cover under shrubs.

There are 37 species of Heuchera and dozens of cultivars now available, the diversity of Heucheras is greater than ever. Their ability to hybridize easily has led to a stunning array of colors and leaf textures, so whether you're designing a native garden or adding structure to your shaded beds, Coral Bells deliver beauty that lasts well beyond their bloom.

Looking to add more color and habitat to your garden? Visit our nursery to explore our vast array of Heuchera and discover the perfect variety for your landscape.

GERBER DAISIES

ANNUALS

Annuals usually have a much longer bloom season than perennials. Some bloom all summer long. Many reseed and colonize.

Reseeding Tips

These are details that will enhance reseeding success.

TRY THESE!

We have many favorites! The tried and true ones are still around.

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Add annuals to your perennial beds, containers & hanging baskets

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Hanging Baskets

OUR TROPICALS ARE IN!

Topical plants add a lush element to your gardens and patios

To create this tRopical oasis:

Broadleaf evergreens have year round interest!

The Benefits of Broadleaf Evergreens

Most broadleaf evergreens have a spectacular display of spring blooms!

BROADLEAF EVERGREENS OF THE WEEK

SKIP CHERRY LAURELS

MAHONIA

AZALEAS

To see these deciduous azaleas in their full splendor they will be blooming in a few weeks at the Polly Hill Arboretum!

BUXUS (BOXWOOD)

HOLLIES

American holly, Ilex opaca

Japanese holly, Ilex crenata

Blue holly, Ilex x meserveae

other hybrids

Inkberry, Ilex glabra

Winterberry, Ilex verticillata

Creeping Phlox

(Phlox subulata)

PHLOX SPECIES

CREEPING PHLOX VARIETIES NOW AVAILABLE

CARE

WHERE TO PLANT

GREAT FOR BUTTERFLIES & INSECT POLLINATORS!

HAPPY GARDENING!

SPRING FLOWERING SHRUBS

VIBURNUM

LILACS

ROSES

HONEYSUCKLE

CLEMATIS

AZALEAS

CLETHRA

OTHER FRAGRANT SHRUBS

FORGET ME NOTS

(MYOSOTIS)

ORIGIN

AN EARLY SEASON PLANT

Forget Me Nots are only available in Spring!

GREENS & COOL WEATHER CROPS

COMING SOON!

VEGGIE SIX PACKS ARE GROWING IN OUR GREENHOUSES NOW!

WE WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL SELECTION OF IN-HOUSE GREENS!

ASPARAGUS COMING SOON!

WE WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THEY ARRIVE. ONCE THEY ARRIVE THERE IS A SHORT PLANTING WINDOW!

GROWING

HARVESTING

GET YOUR HANDS MUDDY & HAVE FUN!

PANSIES & VIOLAS

A BRIEF HISTORY

CARE & INFORMATION

EVERGREENS FOR SCREENING

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CONIFERS WE’D LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT

BENEFITS OF EVERGREENS

VIBURNUM

Fall Interest Viburnums

Native Viburnums

Evergreen Viburnums

Fragrant Spring Blooming Viburnums

LOBELIA

30% off

Two perennial species we carry are Lobelia siphilitica, the Native Great Blue, and Lobelia cardinalis, Cardinal flower.

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CARE

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USES