Garden Blogs

Did you know that you can help save the bay from your own garden? If you live here in the Chesapeake watershed, water runs from your home all the way to the third-largest estuary in the world. Learn how you can make a difference and help save the bay!

The warm weather may be gone, but that does not mean that the gardening season is over. You can continue to plant in this hardiness zone until the ground is frozen solid. Frost and cold temperatures do not mean the ground is frozen. Check soil temperatures in your area, as long as soil temperatures are above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you are good to grow!

One of the worst natural phenomena is erosion. Wind, water, and man-made erosion all degrade land quality. Erosion also reduces water quality by pulling pollution into waterways. This causes unhealthy living conditions for aquatic life. Follow the tips below to slow erosion in your area and help your local wildlife!

Having a garden is a joy; having a cohesive garden that inspires you every time you look at it is simply the best. Create an immersive experience and express your unique style with these garden themes, trending now.

What is your garden saying? According to the Language of Flowers, the plants in your bouquets and flowerbeds are imbued with layers of meaning and symbolism. Learn what different popular flowers and plants represent.

Caring for plants and tending to a garden can boost your mood, and it’s not just us saying so. Studies show that plants can improve our mental health. Read all about how and why biophilia works to make us feel better.

The biggest themes for 2022 we’ve seen repeated are a renewed focus on mental health, more demand for sustainability, and a blurring of lines between indoor and outdoor design. We think these ten trends are the ones that will make the biggest impact in gardening and horticulture in the new year.

Your ornamental plants, flowers, and shrubs in your garden should be eye candy, not the candy store for the local deer population. Although it is important to note, it is impossible to completely deer-proof a garden; you can do your best to fill it with plants known for being the least desirable to these furry forest creatures. Not only are deer-resistant perennials resistant to deer, but because they are, you increase your chances of escaping pest damage.

Once the cool, crisp evening air arrives in autumn and pumpkin spice cycles back to the market, porch flower planters become a staple of every household. The relentless heat of summer made it difficult to give your container plantings enough water to make up for the constant scorch of the summer sun. Thankfully, the autumn sun is much more forgiving and your container garden can reemerge with a plethora of foliage, fruit, and blooms.

In full bloom this week: the bodacious butterfly bush. From June to October, each shrub flaunts long conical clusters of vibrant blooms that are irresistible to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Choosing the right flowers for your climate is a key factor when creating any garden. While some areas of the country experience a steady climate and temperature throughout the year, the mid-Atlantic region can be a bit tricky. For those who live in Hardiness Zones 5 to 7 and Heat Zones 3 to 6, you’ll want to find the right flowers that are suitable for all conditions.  Our four season climate means gardens should be able to withstand the cool spring mornings, summer’s dry and humid heat, and fall’s transition to the unpredictable harsh winter. While the Mid-Atlantic region experiences ample amounts of rainfall, it can also go through a drought phase. 

Another factor to consider is the soil quality within the Mid-Atlantic region which tends to be made up of clay, chalk, loam, and sand. We understand that these are a lot of things to consider, but the Patuxent Nursery’s plant experts are here to help. These top performing perennials are not only beautiful, but also low-maintenance and hardy. Save yourself the hassle, and see what Mid-Atlantic flowers are best for your forever changing outdoor space!

When it’s time for some perennials to go dormant it’s time for others to come out in all their glory, and now is the time for fall perennials to shine. Make sure you incorporate a seasonal interest in your yard, blending bloom times so you will have continuous color and appeal throughout the seasons with little effort.

Whether you need foliage or flower, have sun or shade, dry soil or clay; there is a plant for you.  Fall perennials massed together make a statement by adding a border or interspersing splashes of color to keep your yard alive with color as it transitions into cooler weather.

We’ve always been told to plant in spring and fall but warmer temperatures are still a good time to add interest to your landscaping beds. It only takes a little extra attention and a few simple techniques to help new summer plantings thrive.

There’s something timeless and carefree about a wildflower garden. Wildflower gardens are full of beautiful annuals and perennials, a celebration of natural beauty. It can be intimidating to think about creating one in your landscape but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, planting a stunning wildflower garden doesn’t have to be hard at all. Check out this blog to learn more!