Exploring the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula, we can find an array of treasures in all shapes and sizes. From awe-inspiring forests to picturesque beaches and harbors, this region is a paradise for nature lovers. What we don’t often take notice of are the smaller treasures that keep our habitat healthy and thriving — native solitary mason […]
flowers
Posted inGardeners Corner
Create a Garden Oasis in Any Size Yard, Deck or Balcony
No matter where you garden, there never seems to be enough time and space to accomplish all your gardening goals. Make the most of every minute and square foot of space in your landscape, deck, patio or balcony. Start with a vision of what you want to create. Perhaps it’s a secret hideaway in a […]
Posted inGarden
Campanula Bellflower
Campanulas are my new favorite plant. There are about 500 varieties — encompassed trailers, creeping or tufted miniatures and erect kinds 1 to 6 feet. Most are perennials; some are biennials or annuals. Flowers are usually bell-shaped, though some are star-shaped, cupped or round and flat. They bloom from spring to fall, depending on the […]
Posted inGarden
Landscaping for Wildlife
March and April are perfect months for selecting and planting woody shrubs and trees. This year, consider adding plants to feed and shelter wildlife, especially birds and pollinators. Choose from both evergreen and deciduous plants. Evergreen plants provide shelter and nesting areas throughout the year. Deciduous plants satisfy that requirement but also visually add wonderful […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Choosing and Caring for Orchid Plants
Orchidaceae, the Orchid family, is a diverse group of flowering plants belonging to the Liliopsida class. Found on every continent except Antarctica, orchids are one of the largest families of flowering plants. With more than 28,000 species, there are more orchids on the planet than mammals and birds According to fossil research, orchids have been […]
Posted inGarden
Hellebores — Winter Garden Jewels
Brr, it’s cold outside. Take heart — the days are becoming longer and the winter flower phenomenon is hellebore season, brought to you by the genus Helleborus. Commonly called hellebores, Oriental hellebores, Lenten rose or Christmas rose, whatever you call them, they put on their best finery — fancy flowers and evergreen foliage during […]
Posted inAt Home
Grow a Beautiful Indoor Succulent Garden
It’s no surprise that succulents, including cacti, are popular. These easy-care houseplants come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, making them perfect for any home. All you need is a lot of light and benign neglect to raise healthy and beautiful succulents. Place the plants near an unobstructed south-, west- or east-facing window. […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Tips for Growing Beautiful Dahlias
Growing beautiful dahlias is easier than you think. Proper planting and care will result in an abundance of beautiful blooms for you to enjoy in your garden and summer bouquets. Use these strategies to boost your dahlia growing success. Start Early for a Long Season of Flowers Dahlias grow from sweet-potato-like tuberous roots often called […]
Posted inAt Home
New Ways to Display Poinsettias This Holiday Season
Nothing says the holidays like a poinsettia. This year, try some new ways to display this festive plant. Poinsettias are available in a variety of colors including white, pink, hot pink, yellow, peach, marbled and speckled. These colorful parts of the plant, often referred to as flowers, are actually modified leaves called bracts. The real […]