Many years ago, your grandma probably grew a hydrangea in her garden, but modern plant breeders have moved beyond simple, white snowballs. These flowering shrubs are becoming popular again, as shown by the many colorful cultivars currently being offered for sale. Once you know your intended planting location, variety type can be selected. They work […]
flowers
The Drainfield and the Rose
Prior to 2011, Sally Eastman, an experienced gardener, had never grown a rose. She said recently, “I think I may have planted Rose One Hundred and One this year.” How and why did she become so bowled over by roses? The story really begins in late 2009, when Eastman and her husband, Roger, both looking […]
Keep Orchids Beautiful and Blooming
Lift your spirits, enliven your indoor décor or give the gift of beautiful blooming orchids. You’ll enjoy these exotic blossoms for months with just minimal care — once you know what to do. Start with a healthy flowering plant. The phalaenopsis or moth orchid is the most widely available and easiest to grow. It’s similar […]
Consider the Leaf
Consider the leaf as the breath of life, for without plant foliage, there would be no life. The most important living components on Earth contain life-giving chlorophyll. Every breath humans take is possible because chlorophyll synthesizes the energy of the sun, water and carbon dioxide. The next time you select a plant for its great […]
5 Daffodils to Try in Your Garden
If you love daffodils, you’re likely familiar with the popular ones like the iconic Dutch Master or Yellow River, the easily recognizable Barrett Browning or the beautiful Goblet. Since the Year of the Daffodil will be winding down soon, we wanted to share a few other timeless daffodils for your garden, courtesy the National Garden […]
Raft Island Roses in Gig Harbor
What started out as one man’s hobby has grown into a nursery with a reputation for quality plants with reasonable prices. Raft Island Roses had its beginning in 1997 when Frank Gatto, originally from Burien, retired from his first career and began selling roses at farmers markets. Over 20 years, the business has grown along […]
To Water or Not to Water?
Wilting leaves. Sooner or later, everyone who gardens — from just a single house plant to a grand vegetable patch — will encounter a droopy plant. The remedy is a universally known response: Water the plant. Pour some water on it or set up a sprinkler. Just get water on it somehow. Everyone knows that, […]
A Forest for the Grandkids
“We kind of built this whole place around the grandkids,” said Sam Johnson, speaking about the 30 acres of mostly forested land near Kingston that he and his wife, Debi, purchased in 2001. The Johnsons had been living in Edmonds and were both getting ready to retire from the construction business. They wanted a place […]
Plant Easy-Care Daffodils Now for Added Spring Beauty
Daffodils have a cheery presence in the spring garden and are a surefire way to chase away the winter blues. These fall-planted bulbs are also reliable perennials that require no maintenance and are not bothered by deer or other pests. The National Garden Bureau has declared 2017 the Year of the Daffodil, and with the […]

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