tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51664701365137964162024-03-18T22:55:21.731-04:00Valley View FarmsTips about plants. Events at Valley View Farms. People having fun and enjoying gardening.Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.comBlogger225125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-9746874634796722642024-03-11T10:20:00.001-04:002024-03-11T10:27:42.582-04:00Plants of the Week: Pansies and Violas<p> Spring isn't officially here until the pansies and violas make their first trip to the store from our farm greenhouses. And, so, they've started to arrive. While the colors and fragrances of these plants make them a gardener's cool- weather- favorite -flowers, the incredible variety of patterns, growing habits, and bloom sizes bring new fans each season. Our farm greenhouses grow most of what we carry this time of year, with several other local growers adding to the mix as needed. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAe8Wab2nAj2QTkxCwuMSRcpV0HHH0FZeYeR_H5CjxtmR7r0IMb6R5lERZXBqlP8shTHK7H8B8IXKsyKn3ltP397Cmb-nYxgus_m_9T85QB8Sh6RzWuoT4GHpsDoPee3zT8jqWsiKYj0WaqA9eI2JQUJGBuYrMldBHF2kIl0IK8JHXkXknGkrlGP2j=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAe8Wab2nAj2QTkxCwuMSRcpV0HHH0FZeYeR_H5CjxtmR7r0IMb6R5lERZXBqlP8shTHK7H8B8IXKsyKn3ltP397Cmb-nYxgus_m_9T85QB8Sh6RzWuoT4GHpsDoPee3zT8jqWsiKYj0WaqA9eI2JQUJGBuYrMldBHF2kIl0IK8JHXkXknGkrlGP2j=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Combine with primroses, ajuga, and other perennials </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinZBblG4NbpsAlP_9TQCqU67avM-SPpeekbaWkrSFsOmdf02fmcwjILWyL-fsAcUbHbZtvcaaAkQj4nZ2eWFDLu2QyoekBlkyX6l1TtRbB8bWN025wG_bqq4C7ZkDlovaU-IuEG0GQCAL6uIuCF3rdP6HOduluQ3JRLmw_S9hNHHUmQ748r3qqczDi=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinZBblG4NbpsAlP_9TQCqU67avM-SPpeekbaWkrSFsOmdf02fmcwjILWyL-fsAcUbHbZtvcaaAkQj4nZ2eWFDLu2QyoekBlkyX6l1TtRbB8bWN025wG_bqq4C7ZkDlovaU-IuEG0GQCAL6uIuCF3rdP6HOduluQ3JRLmw_S9hNHHUmQ748r3qqczDi=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solid colors or pansies and violas with 'faces' are beautiful</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Pansies typically are planted in the spring garden. They like growing in the cooler winter season, where they may be started from tiny plugs in our greenhouses in late January to be shipped to the garden center by mid-March. The blooms are bigger and very vibrant. We grow them in the summer for fall as well, but the blooms tend to be smaller at first. The best part about fall pansies is that they will come back up for spring, making them perfect companions to daffodils and tulips. <div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaYDjC0qDWSO05raZvPT3y1no9LR5xKY0s5XfydhIBJ9eUuhtxS-J9oXjeI-T9uM8jRSC9GWD1q_sh_S5iKtOfgdHoLvEt0npTSIXxyWzmjV_VT4LDazg-v--RAUFLEr7J76UVpIQHWW1nxXFFapMwv_v6QYQu_wy6P1ZIHm0a3FkRbMhkNbOC6oxo=s422" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="422" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaYDjC0qDWSO05raZvPT3y1no9LR5xKY0s5XfydhIBJ9eUuhtxS-J9oXjeI-T9uM8jRSC9GWD1q_sh_S5iKtOfgdHoLvEt0npTSIXxyWzmjV_VT4LDazg-v--RAUFLEr7J76UVpIQHWW1nxXFFapMwv_v6QYQu_wy6P1ZIHm0a3FkRbMhkNbOC6oxo=w400-h386" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiest during cooler weather, even surviving the snow in winter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let's get this spring going! The daffodils and hellebores are blooming. Fresh pansies and violas will be planted in the containers along the front walk. Bulbs in pots have started to emerge. With Easter just 3 weeks away, I'm ready!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-UXjiVcRnSaW6V-Gm_1cwHx5Ud4VJLeiaVhDrXPXcLGaGICZ6zC3pfjqtKh2zFxmIyctW4WP_GAhrvjRA2JJYadevx7dEpIelYHbxUqiDSwoopssOU_JALnSU30EsP6TylUHd5ZIac_f2yYfJFW9lkyAtGdAduy--vV8EvudJ7UeBGDXyPsRJn0z/s640/patio April 2003 099.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-UXjiVcRnSaW6V-Gm_1cwHx5Ud4VJLeiaVhDrXPXcLGaGICZ6zC3pfjqtKh2zFxmIyctW4WP_GAhrvjRA2JJYadevx7dEpIelYHbxUqiDSwoopssOU_JALnSU30EsP6TylUHd5ZIac_f2yYfJFW9lkyAtGdAduy--vV8EvudJ7UeBGDXyPsRJn0z/w400-h300/patio April 2003 099.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow violas with tulips</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAS7TrPje1VCAJv-a4uKHdQFilDcuOZUAyqZTV8Qah4dZJDsM5Ji30dFyikJl-Hv8pVfo1x64Bw7HCUF_lt5E5xtaVawmep_Ybf89VNt8mbBPmawV-a5iDYwJKMNP1Zsn_SiA2TafPuFDVZDz8rD3b82nqFjXBq3DE74wsYUVEEKkcWY7WvUByKSoQ/s640/patio April 2003 085.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAS7TrPje1VCAJv-a4uKHdQFilDcuOZUAyqZTV8Qah4dZJDsM5Ji30dFyikJl-Hv8pVfo1x64Bw7HCUF_lt5E5xtaVawmep_Ybf89VNt8mbBPmawV-a5iDYwJKMNP1Zsn_SiA2TafPuFDVZDz8rD3b82nqFjXBq3DE74wsYUVEEKkcWY7WvUByKSoQ/w400-h300/patio April 2003 085.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bluish pansies with tulips<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEVptrPoV6Mi17I4n0tGkp2-LoWcujYt0j1ub8A6RBDWbOBD1qIf4YOr7iTsHNyC8WmjyPiFBtNNDuNgNBOyyYsbyDYIkC2g4mRkoHn23lQT1F_5C1tnFsv48MsIC6vmPJvJQBeDiIljHq20ydE3SheN_IuPNxwhcnafKlWxuMQVutwE4-qC95ZuO/s640/LRG_DSC01468.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="428" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEVptrPoV6Mi17I4n0tGkp2-LoWcujYt0j1ub8A6RBDWbOBD1qIf4YOr7iTsHNyC8WmjyPiFBtNNDuNgNBOyyYsbyDYIkC2g4mRkoHn23lQT1F_5C1tnFsv48MsIC6vmPJvJQBeDiIljHq20ydE3SheN_IuPNxwhcnafKlWxuMQVutwE4-qC95ZuO/w268-h400/LRG_DSC01468.JPG" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy place, happy face</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACtYFv465ROCLQaUmtUD6JmEebSROWjjnUDEQVC-aEuSOo1a6UqKHGxsQHT7lyBszbRNOz3Bbj-CNN_CoIlwTgpPveQp4bsIN1FvaNkE0fVyE2k_pEhAmD_CI1MX2MRJS68ayYTchYsUfzfHQpZZMnwJ2T_C-6ZBUN2NdMk3h-Ch8oOUSydukKcvR/s640/IMG_5838.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACtYFv465ROCLQaUmtUD6JmEebSROWjjnUDEQVC-aEuSOo1a6UqKHGxsQHT7lyBszbRNOz3Bbj-CNN_CoIlwTgpPveQp4bsIN1FvaNkE0fVyE2k_pEhAmD_CI1MX2MRJS68ayYTchYsUfzfHQpZZMnwJ2T_C-6ZBUN2NdMk3h-Ch8oOUSydukKcvR/w400-h300/IMG_5838.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selection</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpRalOSgk9jsqZphzeKHJX5lOqNUlLIeMBZgtElHH8vCI_CbGEgOAM-R-IguIcALhakwtBiRJc7rT8e03w9TmFHSUCLlaCpLl9mG-rkPV7kZIwywELz64JeWctXGtdXDxJjNJbnymO0ome6McpjH7D0UI5hwu_CGT5F1sN_PL0_4Oj1tDxSWIdKqw/s640/IMG_4433.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpRalOSgk9jsqZphzeKHJX5lOqNUlLIeMBZgtElHH8vCI_CbGEgOAM-R-IguIcALhakwtBiRJc7rT8e03w9TmFHSUCLlaCpLl9mG-rkPV7kZIwywELz64JeWctXGtdXDxJjNJbnymO0ome6McpjH7D0UI5hwu_CGT5F1sN_PL0_4Oj1tDxSWIdKqw/w300-h400/IMG_4433.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jump-ups</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-45BmSay1fnG4_nktGiHQkKWkCAMFq6n1r4eZoSi3NL3sdRC9Gu3m4EZ-QOLU8wjT8eSW6C6ePYYfgJjqhRmLh2GxUO5cbSOWYt4tLNuG3p838NXNpL_YfDSDiq5kS71hyNirIwdCJE_afLl5yz_DP2jGtNgfPxN-vfDDxeqQB5ub69igmEIXldW/s640/IMG_1535.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-45BmSay1fnG4_nktGiHQkKWkCAMFq6n1r4eZoSi3NL3sdRC9Gu3m4EZ-QOLU8wjT8eSW6C6ePYYfgJjqhRmLh2GxUO5cbSOWYt4tLNuG3p838NXNpL_YfDSDiq5kS71hyNirIwdCJE_afLl5yz_DP2jGtNgfPxN-vfDDxeqQB5ub69igmEIXldW/w400-h300/IMG_1535.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking happy to be headed to Cockeysville from the farm. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><p></p></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-87671559487275330412024-02-25T14:37:00.001-05:002024-02-26T13:57:40.097-05:00WBAL and Valley View Farms Collaboration 2024<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiunHwv4AygCL7yG8IQZCYN3SROalxWd5YNkTcXBbgnkHUI5VdR5hkxMql2ECYYM-EhyphenhyphenOBaheB04a8v9jt6N9I1DYgcO_CNrTPV29s-0zw9_J9U9fNqb1-T_45jyrzbc4u9M2Xe9wIBLFT7q17ytiICXhV1eOdMm15cHsGnvw3L3E3hJidRPRk_JtRbs/s720/IMG_9128.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="720" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiunHwv4AygCL7yG8IQZCYN3SROalxWd5YNkTcXBbgnkHUI5VdR5hkxMql2ECYYM-EhyphenhyphenOBaheB04a8v9jt6N9I1DYgcO_CNrTPV29s-0zw9_J9U9fNqb1-T_45jyrzbc4u9M2Xe9wIBLFT7q17ytiICXhV1eOdMm15cHsGnvw3L3E3hJidRPRk_JtRbs/w400-h301/IMG_9128.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Extras Abby, Georgie, Matthew and Marlin were on set this week</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Last week, WBAL's crew produced 10 + commercials and 5 upcoming Sunday Gardener segments in our greenhouse. Scott, Sandy, Jen, Rachel, Matt and others from Valley View Farms created the set for us. Wow, it is beautiful and will remain up through next weekend, March 2 and 3. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBZ3i0MNFYfX0TEicpF05dkERVG56gz3T8RFhfj177D3IyqmplW1onuXLttecabkJWdqeeHHVf45f4lndWVQaor5TaCpuPCagYkMxdKN5tRv-Lxyss0u-GQSK_k9XOUtCYyu-iM4Rtzx2Yq9sGaYiHMme71ND1KKnRDxmVAjYZa8YObR4-iiC92nv82w/s4032/IMG_9006.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBZ3i0MNFYfX0TEicpF05dkERVG56gz3T8RFhfj177D3IyqmplW1onuXLttecabkJWdqeeHHVf45f4lndWVQaor5TaCpuPCagYkMxdKN5tRv-Lxyss0u-GQSK_k9XOUtCYyu-iM4Rtzx2Yq9sGaYiHMme71ND1KKnRDxmVAjYZa8YObR4-iiC92nv82w/w400-h300/IMG_9006.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandy, Scott and Jen</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The sod was brought in last fall and laid out in our unheated greenhouse. When it was moved to our heated glass greenhouse, it was still dormant. The heat, light, and water turned it green in two weeks. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1Y_kdlUeV6iB18jcBem2wI5CdUL-7wumrEhP-dBWUqpH-bEuZyEyl6YeDRUfQ6IAf6T5r98vwt4aeUAgebFbozx0ieTjplMOgZspniTw53slBaGVYfKcSWdv_CzZJ-yx09P3hm8eWQRunm5Hd25y5Vuug244glNfBNtJtKzqMbItQV0LM8cqOlA6CCE/s4032/IMG_9005.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1Y_kdlUeV6iB18jcBem2wI5CdUL-7wumrEhP-dBWUqpH-bEuZyEyl6YeDRUfQ6IAf6T5r98vwt4aeUAgebFbozx0ieTjplMOgZspniTw53slBaGVYfKcSWdv_CzZJ-yx09P3hm8eWQRunm5Hd25y5Vuug244glNfBNtJtKzqMbItQV0LM8cqOlA6CCE/w400-h300/IMG_9005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An amazing mid-February lawn</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The house facade was slightly updated from last year. A stockade fence served as a backdrop. Scott and his crew added a flagstone patio, a gravel seating area, a dry stream bed, (later a pond; thanks Carl and Nick), and a nice stone bench. The team then "planted" the trees and shrubs, adding pansies, bulbs, perennials and annuals as needed throughout the week of filming. The sky was clear blue, without a cloud (or wrinkle). Curtained windows and doors added to the realism of the house. Didn't they do a great job?</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awKaxZ5JrzSLGre7WEuQ1SntZwrJaP8_Rq68hrEhoYH4C1QLBk7ovu0Qe5eVnMDoFqyfqWZTIIk60GCI5tlXKxa4CBSaMp24cT0dlsvLFd9f_cKZEmxeqUd-CuDjyz0fZ0PI-I3Kf3xgBKdC0qzFUd2kdoBFGSAFM0eG7RlB6-JWmdKHQi3rr_MRfEU/s4032/IMG_9002.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awKaxZ5JrzSLGre7WEuQ1SntZwrJaP8_Rq68hrEhoYH4C1QLBk7ovu0Qe5eVnMDoFqyfqWZTIIk60GCI5tlXKxa4CBSaMp24cT0dlsvLFd9f_cKZEmxeqUd-CuDjyz0fZ0PI-I3Kf3xgBKdC0qzFUd2kdoBFGSAFM0eG7RlB6-JWmdKHQi3rr_MRfEU/w400-h300/IMG_9002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful set in our greenhouse</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoklMTt5shX35DihlcplwRSqfv5MXlgViduyFKPlpDSaySeGbuARdyw3BTym9_o_6Pqzw1sB6FDaIBjFek9gaaLJs942LqL2cASM17FCzGAhsw0mIAKiqdHL7Y4LPICnTcEfhKPqUwF1tojcHcjQV1vl23S4D6gaZFl9NS22NE7J5_o6LI-eFRjM33U4/s4032/IMG_9003.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoklMTt5shX35DihlcplwRSqfv5MXlgViduyFKPlpDSaySeGbuARdyw3BTym9_o_6Pqzw1sB6FDaIBjFek9gaaLJs942LqL2cASM17FCzGAhsw0mIAKiqdHL7Y4LPICnTcEfhKPqUwF1tojcHcjQV1vl23S4D6gaZFl9NS22NE7J5_o6LI-eFRjM33U4/w400-h300/IMG_9003.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I could spend some time here</td></tr></tbody></table><p>WBAL's crew, led by Senior Producer/Director Don, moved in Monday to set up the cameras, lights, monitors, audio system and much more. Photographer Mike, gaffers and grips Stu, Mark and Rhett got everything ready and were able to start shooting Monday. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHYKVOptyp1CLVwSTCpL04eoy4Oe9f5O-IalbsJ-BXyoXYJRWBHNrWjMMpogjz29NFRdssIpDM-QluziBBoTcaAehhHs25iFDCW8U3bEpXBuT6LZxoxQoNpKbJM1zA-j0i05iIHGLieHxf03oW1kBbMC-hH8GYlOh_PgfPBs794HZC63SygFIkuPvyME/s4032/IMG_2931.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHYKVOptyp1CLVwSTCpL04eoy4Oe9f5O-IalbsJ-BXyoXYJRWBHNrWjMMpogjz29NFRdssIpDM-QluziBBoTcaAehhHs25iFDCW8U3bEpXBuT6LZxoxQoNpKbJM1zA-j0i05iIHGLieHxf03oW1kBbMC-hH8GYlOh_PgfPBs794HZC63SygFIkuPvyME/w400-h300/IMG_2931.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Playback!"</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Yb-0wvhXOzMM4JN7Y0Zy8e4VbI3xgDN9MZmZaNsdTmhtJAGWA3H4rokOoB4e8hD7pkW92AOxXkt9aRyNMoH0r0_FhXac_PhUhpREhuIj1BriC4X73MqHQf3xjRlqLhVO0lY2NYxenRYQEqbY-lZGBvW6pfNTHL_cW_OKiGQC_eF6sCNqtT8kCpBtXL4/s4032/IMG_9014.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Yb-0wvhXOzMM4JN7Y0Zy8e4VbI3xgDN9MZmZaNsdTmhtJAGWA3H4rokOoB4e8hD7pkW92AOxXkt9aRyNMoH0r0_FhXac_PhUhpREhuIj1BriC4X73MqHQf3xjRlqLhVO0lY2NYxenRYQEqbY-lZGBvW6pfNTHL_cW_OKiGQC_eF6sCNqtT8kCpBtXL4/w400-h300/IMG_9014.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhett, Mark, and Stu</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Our Garden Shop kept everything going, providing product, people and knowledge to lead the shoot and worked very closely with Don. Annie, WBAL's Commercial Production Manager, kept thing organized, provided call times, set up the script, worked with the teleprompter, timed the segments and did anything else that came up. </p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgEjVrrGU9o5nkRkFJNgKvLmGsyCnzSxYbLF0qWVGUPjkBeUTxrpeAVn-sE0ecrjsA8FWSLaz_dcDdSnyaEFmBVlHlsr0fMxDfY6KXOc93eVVaSHYxzFk7sofFRiL7To3y5Mj0DCGi_FPdsOSheTGDEppqNkbdkiPVXuUdgZXedcGxVgmZH7RC-Hebf8/s4032/IMG_2933.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgEjVrrGU9o5nkRkFJNgKvLmGsyCnzSxYbLF0qWVGUPjkBeUTxrpeAVn-sE0ecrjsA8FWSLaz_dcDdSnyaEFmBVlHlsr0fMxDfY6KXOc93eVVaSHYxzFk7sofFRiL7To3y5Mj0DCGi_FPdsOSheTGDEppqNkbdkiPVXuUdgZXedcGxVgmZH7RC-Hebf8/w400-h300/IMG_2933.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Annie, Don, and Mike (behind the camera) review </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Dick P, our advertising agent, had already written the commercial scripts and had them okayed with our vendors. He, with Brian, Annie, and Don, made sure the scripts were followed and that the actions that accompanied the scripts were relevant. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojHrV4e8ojLQvu2F0-Ei3WJU06Gd1Qp_K7E4SYUfX3QDq-LceuuWM85Ye5YO_TRvbUPTzx9UQflzCOdwA1PsWikb0P_H11tSC3AeQNLgMrAIOedsivZWgJr1NAHxORLbwAb3vd4g_BEAxAHR3BFzO3lQ_LmqLwAN4Q4v0b6thELrwmhCVu-5XJILk4lQ/s4030/IMG_9009.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2389" data-original-width="4030" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojHrV4e8ojLQvu2F0-Ei3WJU06Gd1Qp_K7E4SYUfX3QDq-LceuuWM85Ye5YO_TRvbUPTzx9UQflzCOdwA1PsWikb0P_H11tSC3AeQNLgMrAIOedsivZWgJr1NAHxORLbwAb3vd4g_BEAxAHR3BFzO3lQ_LmqLwAN4Q4v0b6thELrwmhCVu-5XJILk4lQ/w400-h238/IMG_9009.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin, our Armstrong Bird Feed vendor, sets up the product shot with our Garden Shop manager Brian</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Another member of the crew, Dawn, provided make-up and hair styling for our "talent" including Carrie, Rachel F, Brent, and Rachel W.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SZGcDGXVUBT5NKKOuihJormwkTr8dqY1pKbYBrkgEwb9kmE86jOGfssVFcApeLO7BwqxLy1LYmcD02MGzuraf2e2d2r5ACSsOAPE3j71asAx-ug8abAvO88tnRe1_g8NvtXvP7GW7Ns09JeoP7A5J8gk72YRQ4MTxvAjDJleEsM6c1cPlWXVYG8yb2I/s4032/IMG_9019.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SZGcDGXVUBT5NKKOuihJormwkTr8dqY1pKbYBrkgEwb9kmE86jOGfssVFcApeLO7BwqxLy1LYmcD02MGzuraf2e2d2r5ACSsOAPE3j71asAx-ug8abAvO88tnRe1_g8NvtXvP7GW7Ns09JeoP7A5J8gk72YRQ4MTxvAjDJleEsM6c1cPlWXVYG8yb2I/w400-h300/IMG_9019.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photographer Mike and Rachel W</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWj3-6ilGy72hPEeUjq4oUHOA3BdIyr_G6fgS0VJoB8rwyGveU33ohkwFZZF15bqCJshjXDTZ0vXqqsALsYB193p6X14pw9hsvKP6UN63RmMR0xWQg8KfoDs3y3YiQkTnFwkSdBg-Y8tot4b2rlCMBwCXce8hHHGOO7WLSSQyq6YiUi1D2gwZWo1nDUU/s1024/imagejpeg_0%204.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWj3-6ilGy72hPEeUjq4oUHOA3BdIyr_G6fgS0VJoB8rwyGveU33ohkwFZZF15bqCJshjXDTZ0vXqqsALsYB193p6X14pw9hsvKP6UN63RmMR0xWQg8KfoDs3y3YiQkTnFwkSdBg-Y8tot4b2rlCMBwCXce8hHHGOO7WLSSQyq6YiUi1D2gwZWo1nDUU/w400-h300/imagejpeg_0%204.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn had her work cut out for her</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Most of the commercials were shot by Thursday. Mike, our cameraman, was taking still photos on the go too. The results of all of the work on the shoot was phenomenal. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclwhA0RCgTslVtsfU0hIo9DzQ1J0w0dmvm5AyS9IjqqZrxVOEFSfPwosAlpNt4cdiRlytuVIrvJz-We4tKB9MmmyBW8BXg5iPSd09K28jzd37jmG7lcysj4JMjFkVbNgr0ONjrCMXDum_SeoJ-qxwKa7vhcIedh9QsdjmD3A6qR1RcFIQ9Mbjliufx3c/s720/IMG_9129.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="720" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclwhA0RCgTslVtsfU0hIo9DzQ1J0w0dmvm5AyS9IjqqZrxVOEFSfPwosAlpNt4cdiRlytuVIrvJz-We4tKB9MmmyBW8BXg5iPSd09K28jzd37jmG7lcysj4JMjFkVbNgr0ONjrCMXDum_SeoJ-qxwKa7vhcIedh9QsdjmD3A6qR1RcFIQ9Mbjliufx3c/w400-h301/IMG_9129.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike looks, listens, and photographs us for Sunday Gardener</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGJ3Vt_CEPj81T9yqbK-8GjD3WIZYst5M32R4lBKwxhrwETb9QBsQzlXAupxQRGwSKjyidoeeYbn2ralmBfkGSlBA7E5YgFeCXXflUy_B8e67H2tMFy3X8m9r9Y4maId5ulICXTGn9ou0ZhLeask5bgM-MKdAGPEYdZfij0NPm-T1dlwmOG0cfi4p3ns/s1024/imagejpeg_1.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGJ3Vt_CEPj81T9yqbK-8GjD3WIZYst5M32R4lBKwxhrwETb9QBsQzlXAupxQRGwSKjyidoeeYbn2ralmBfkGSlBA7E5YgFeCXXflUy_B8e67H2tMFy3X8m9r9Y4maId5ulICXTGn9ou0ZhLeask5bgM-MKdAGPEYdZfij0NPm-T1dlwmOG0cfi4p3ns/w300-h400/imagejpeg_1.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, Rachel and Scott really did vacuum the lawn<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Ava Marie stopped by in late morning to do the Sunday Gardener segments with Carrie. We usually do this without lights, the fancy set, and all of the perks we had set up. We were able to use the set for all 5 of the episodes, airing through March at about 9:20 am Sundays on WBAL TV 11. The vendor commercials will air from March thru June.<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIHqsAkAT9AYsq7FMq3O6WE1lU2O9HY7YL62XQ-MCfoWQglPvuKB13YBKsZGmRCVxE-T6OQnIwMZiyhmMOinmJCTxk1-Co6902D38vHyDbcynbv3X6fqvzVT0LrJRajJhRIu39U2r5npUlZsXPyoGD5m5PaPH0o5IELUsg69BhJ2luzlcGawkaspaF3g/s5712/IMG_3689.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3213" data-original-width="5712" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIHqsAkAT9AYsq7FMq3O6WE1lU2O9HY7YL62XQ-MCfoWQglPvuKB13YBKsZGmRCVxE-T6OQnIwMZiyhmMOinmJCTxk1-Co6902D38vHyDbcynbv3X6fqvzVT0LrJRajJhRIu39U2r5npUlZsXPyoGD5m5PaPH0o5IELUsg69BhJ2luzlcGawkaspaF3g/w400-h225/IMG_3689.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a lot of work, but what fun we had!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />We look forward to doing this again in 2025. The technology has really changed in the 30 years we've been collaborating with WBAL TV 11.<div><br /></div><div>Thank you to our vendors who invest in our ads. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to all my un-named coworkers for keeping the store running, plants watered, and providing customer service to all who stopped in this week. <br /><div><br /></div><div>And, a big thank you to Dan J, CEO at WBAL, and Andy F, CEO of Valley View Farms for providing all the people and resources that we used to create these videos. </div><div><br /></div><div>Photos provided by Mike from WBAL, and Jen, Scott, Rachel, Cynthia, and Carrie from Valley View Farms<br /><br /><p></p></div></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-8527144506361581492024-02-11T08:36:00.010-05:002024-02-11T08:52:01.391-05:00Plant of the Week: Helleborus<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1waHuZpU8jK9GISKmGGe730TozX_WS64Y-hgXw375skWgcXv5RvuMAJdC7l3Cm2XP-mWbHTUhXUtxk23Hl151ofjj6YZJ1GHirDfU5SUkRhQ0JmosZU0dAOYWxI2aDYd8hhMxLvOwKs3qeSRiUgWadB7KSXcTqMEnVhsQ1-JGwbfPHbSfalTVXyfYt8/s3024/IMG_7890.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2917" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1waHuZpU8jK9GISKmGGe730TozX_WS64Y-hgXw375skWgcXv5RvuMAJdC7l3Cm2XP-mWbHTUhXUtxk23Hl151ofjj6YZJ1GHirDfU5SUkRhQ0JmosZU0dAOYWxI2aDYd8hhMxLvOwKs3qeSRiUgWadB7KSXcTqMEnVhsQ1-JGwbfPHbSfalTVXyfYt8/w386-h400/IMG_7890.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hellebores are a perennial favorite for early blooming.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>What's not to love about Helleborus? The first perennial to bloom in the new year, they are very hardy, have evergreen leaves, and that is just the beginning of all that is good about Helleborus. They grow in part sun to full shade, are resistant to pests and diseases, including deer, and make adorable cut flowers for this time of year. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJbo2tAMvtFV9Y387wAmhxyrcUNO7_WxXS6b9nmWPsVD2Upc7QCQ72HKA-_1JwfWbbZbnGTcw4KW10cNn92vbH6twCxSR6sTUNdr9FZ-QMeIMyltB22zegOx149XKVjNu0YcOvNl6naEngodx9oxkXz_6V4zHzkJBn_fQUQ9DR76cpydtv4QFE4IjM54/s2592/IMG_4652.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1936" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJbo2tAMvtFV9Y387wAmhxyrcUNO7_WxXS6b9nmWPsVD2Upc7QCQ72HKA-_1JwfWbbZbnGTcw4KW10cNn92vbH6twCxSR6sTUNdr9FZ-QMeIMyltB22zegOx149XKVjNu0YcOvNl6naEngodx9oxkXz_6V4zHzkJBn_fQUQ9DR76cpydtv4QFE4IjM54/w299-h400/IMG_4652.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful cut flowers for late winter/early spring</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Mine are beginning to bloom now. I wait to clean up older leaves as the flowers appear. New leaves will fill in in no time and the flowers will be on upright stems above the foliage. Also called Lenten Rose, a nod to their blooming time, Hellebores have become a very sought after perennial. <br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy926ukjpsR2SLiVLNWLCowlX5o3Y9bbbzKqk-578j0uwsaApixf1kLaRejvqSLIMa-LxUDBVnXcpDQSblna_lDWJEPQamYx-c1OYIbQnZg8VIqSeMSwKmHpk4IQdUVgbMfal9sJrLJakLZ4S3PjXZ8W-lVpDYgMO6gsmDQUk_Tc4xTXavTDPNzDjusCo/s3264/IMG_0349.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy926ukjpsR2SLiVLNWLCowlX5o3Y9bbbzKqk-578j0uwsaApixf1kLaRejvqSLIMa-LxUDBVnXcpDQSblna_lDWJEPQamYx-c1OYIbQnZg8VIqSeMSwKmHpk4IQdUVgbMfal9sJrLJakLZ4S3PjXZ8W-lVpDYgMO6gsmDQUk_Tc4xTXavTDPNzDjusCo/w400-h300/IMG_0349.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our growers offer an amazing variety of Hellebores</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Newer breeding has led to cup shaped flowers, many with yellow centers, that stand up straight, unlike the nodding flowers of earlier varieties. Frostkiss have been bred for the upright blooms that are borne above the mottled bushy evergreen foliage. The flowers come in different shades, of red, pink, purple, cream, and almost black. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZTn7IZhxbWqYjjTlK6Td1-qISvb2VIRmYrPYb7xvCJszECVr9wpF642WpP2TOxnrubBVkwiFkgeKBKu-LkZs_GO9xsQlICJ_xHZ1u-21qtBDAHakxZJKUFd7TBUpGbHGrbXvNnuMUic87E8xNC9TgeoPTEvlqJLR1blg5CN6d06Tms4mN86qx7Bi2wA/s3181/IMG_8952.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3181" data-original-width="2327" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZTn7IZhxbWqYjjTlK6Td1-qISvb2VIRmYrPYb7xvCJszECVr9wpF642WpP2TOxnrubBVkwiFkgeKBKu-LkZs_GO9xsQlICJ_xHZ1u-21qtBDAHakxZJKUFd7TBUpGbHGrbXvNnuMUic87E8xNC9TgeoPTEvlqJLR1blg5CN6d06Tms4mN86qx7Bi2wA/w293-h400/IMG_8952.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Frostkiss is a beautiful, newer variety</td></tr></tbody></table><br />When they were planted over a decade ago, we created a river of hellebores through our shady foundation planting in front of the house. Surrounded by other shade tolerant plants like Osmanthus (False Holly), Cephalotaxus (Japanese Plum Yew), and various hostas and ferns, the Hellebores have thrived. Deer have left them alone; even the discovery of a nearby rabbit warren left me worry-free. I do admit to spraying the hostas with a deer repellent. <p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5ZzdwELCeTRyQIn2m19grdkUO7fREXAUs6QOic-blIF-2CKXWUJR2g8pEGTJotEWzaFNFW4MOhCJoyo66jwaxGeORa5OscqQBIebEDnNhGwYH2ZWbUh8YQ6K7qCJvMOpvJKzYy1kJFWJ85Pv6kSE3eMXf933q_eNUo-fBMrmA6KXsmcdw02ms-W5S8g/s3632/IMG_7857.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="3632" data-original-width="2543" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5ZzdwELCeTRyQIn2m19grdkUO7fREXAUs6QOic-blIF-2CKXWUJR2g8pEGTJotEWzaFNFW4MOhCJoyo66jwaxGeORa5OscqQBIebEDnNhGwYH2ZWbUh8YQ6K7qCJvMOpvJKzYy1kJFWJ85Pv6kSE3eMXf933q_eNUo-fBMrmA6KXsmcdw02ms-W5S8g/w280-h400/IMG_7857.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><p></p>Consider planting Hellebores early this year. You'll be sure to enjoy them for many years to come. Click on the Plant Finder tab on the <a href="http://www.valleyviewfarms.com/">Valley View Farms website</a> to see the many varieties that we may carry this year. Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-43239906903393041952024-01-29T11:02:00.001-05:002024-01-29T11:02:50.456-05:00Plant of the Week: African Violet<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRHTPcYTx_q2TDpetg7kBM6UUrqsWblHozEfm1YwbgnhYZTLWLUgudv1A5epCIX8Fe5nfBHdssdzffQSYKpDIWOCwdZwqaFt71_EfnTc_NNkKdBEnwXoabtV-NbGTsVmX0zSGfmLNxN-Ql7aRPk4wdnTmedaxQQhyL02veR_1MGcffmZMeTvGCbanXzc/s3849/IMG_8905.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2392" data-original-width="3849" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRHTPcYTx_q2TDpetg7kBM6UUrqsWblHozEfm1YwbgnhYZTLWLUgudv1A5epCIX8Fe5nfBHdssdzffQSYKpDIWOCwdZwqaFt71_EfnTc_NNkKdBEnwXoabtV-NbGTsVmX0zSGfmLNxN-Ql7aRPk4wdnTmedaxQQhyL02veR_1MGcffmZMeTvGCbanXzc/w400-h249/IMG_8905.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">African Violets are available in many colors</td></tr></tbody></table><br />African Violets, Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia are native to Tanzania and parts of Kenya in southeastern tropical Africa. For many years, Saintpaulia, which is how I've always known this plant, showed in various studies to be within the genus Streptocarpus. <p></p><p>Enough about all of that. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4jl7gBEoHCv4WtZ1e55zvaqXoCGrzVwvcGWC-j-ZXZcJ42BIFjpcf1-o3a0-rlhMTuZgUxcrRT7MyKAGiq7FE6hIilTP6eSLdFts-0Ury6CGJsfv96VdTXh8oSPei4o1S2vtJvvMPdJU_OqSl7rQIzcST2qEHukbNbaUcMYBOgSHIHBHE1pYOrxfmzU/s3847/IMG_8904.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2634" data-original-width="3847" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4jl7gBEoHCv4WtZ1e55zvaqXoCGrzVwvcGWC-j-ZXZcJ42BIFjpcf1-o3a0-rlhMTuZgUxcrRT7MyKAGiq7FE6hIilTP6eSLdFts-0Ury6CGJsfv96VdTXh8oSPei4o1S2vtJvvMPdJU_OqSl7rQIzcST2qEHukbNbaUcMYBOgSHIHBHE1pYOrxfmzU/w400-h274/IMG_8904.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini violets are very popular, here in 2" pots</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>African Violets are among the most commonly found houseplants. I can't help but think of my mom and grandmothers everywhere that grew this plant on a windowsill in their home. Clusters of purple, blue, pink and white blooms grew atop soft, velvety leaves of green. Most seem to grow in round 4" pots where I've seen them. A few bigger plants may thrive in 6" pots and miniature varieties reside in 2-3" planters. In the right conditions, African Violets bloom all year. </p><p>Light is a top priority for these flowers; many hobbyists grow them under lights for that reason. Sixteen hours of bright light is ideal under grow lights. Keep them protected from direct sunlight as it will burn the soft leaves. An east window may be enough to provide natural light. They like humidity as their native habitat is tropical.</p><p>African Violets require moist, well-drained soil. African Violet specialty soils and fertilizers are available in garden shops like ours. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnUKWAL8wGYM5fxUfihrqO3UJ_Zx_-UWUpHgSvbUOsvq36VeHqK0dSr94vRgg32K87qOOfRco57J5hwScQ5gfNHgwH-a0S_6iMlOj6EKXP2d73c_xxHvnXPE6yQ5U4QVsJ_DpL6btBHkjZQplgt-o8UV8LWZ-Oil3gWRPAjf8QHYmJ3BdC_iq02EMqlc/s300/AV4.jpg-300x300.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnUKWAL8wGYM5fxUfihrqO3UJ_Zx_-UWUpHgSvbUOsvq36VeHqK0dSr94vRgg32K87qOOfRco57J5hwScQ5gfNHgwH-a0S_6iMlOj6EKXP2d73c_xxHvnXPE6yQ5U4QVsJ_DpL6btBHkjZQplgt-o8UV8LWZ-Oil3gWRPAjf8QHYmJ3BdC_iq02EMqlc/s1600/AV4.jpg-300x300.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p>Maintain the plants by dead-heading old blooms and tired foliage. </p><p>African Violets can be watered from above or below. Do not allow water to sit in a saucer or pot for too long; empty once the soil is moist to the touch. African Violet pots, self-watering through the porous inner pot, is an excellent way to take the guessing away. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CXDOk6eb9gCNNvmN_Hgr6PXgO4oXdFIi6B6-cV9V_t7yz1SZElTeqtWygLMEI8UW_Uh3yJ484BquUoDkmPEH4JmuiTSRjOx1AnhiOIxzCkXAU0QSu5EKIev4hpznqkbi4oAAxocloO_cGSCfcnTXrlrI_TLX9nRMFXgF6nKEmFfm5AHsCCokw5Jxj_c/s4032/IMG_8907.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CXDOk6eb9gCNNvmN_Hgr6PXgO4oXdFIi6B6-cV9V_t7yz1SZElTeqtWygLMEI8UW_Uh3yJ484BquUoDkmPEH4JmuiTSRjOx1AnhiOIxzCkXAU0QSu5EKIev4hpznqkbi4oAAxocloO_cGSCfcnTXrlrI_TLX9nRMFXgF6nKEmFfm5AHsCCokw5Jxj_c/w300-h400/IMG_8907.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir24OFtdpTSi9Xa4Rq47f_rR2ZK5JGTKKBLecoDkX3AIEg2jMv2c0AKKIMiQ376Qx8Rizc3kgUoq1_6uzttFaZeCgRJ7z6QNdwgeZXtQ0SuujPxI-V9ysUVv2ShIHlxHsBodAhN5xmh7yLkuNwPJZdsv46DBZWMSt4BaQ8EHJraDXvIpV4IghPPz7tdzo/s3024/IMG_8906.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3004" data-original-width="3024" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir24OFtdpTSi9Xa4Rq47f_rR2ZK5JGTKKBLecoDkX3AIEg2jMv2c0AKKIMiQ376Qx8Rizc3kgUoq1_6uzttFaZeCgRJ7z6QNdwgeZXtQ0SuujPxI-V9ysUVv2ShIHlxHsBodAhN5xmh7yLkuNwPJZdsv46DBZWMSt4BaQ8EHJraDXvIpV4IghPPz7tdzo/w400-h398/IMG_8906.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look for African Violet pots in our greenhouse</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Fertilize African violets monthly with a food made just for them. I like the liquid fertilizer that mixes easily with water. Don't have African Violet food? Use any bloom booster fertilizer. </span></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaOcsVig-FkjHi6S-dWVIHYA41OcGNOzuq0z0sgJDJk2GFsAM17pRjqUk3ZEbjNOu_-EFR4LK5EWb0SbwfVz7WNHFGI4nOFJmcixrVgyWkOlHCKiHFyhY2wVMMUVAbgU0MZeYkmC7Dn-Xq_EB9qV5S679FNAAd4AgPuRmyBg3Qi8KyLcWBGOO50upsDs/s300/AV22_EO_Violet_8oz_3000x3000-300x300.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaOcsVig-FkjHi6S-dWVIHYA41OcGNOzuq0z0sgJDJk2GFsAM17pRjqUk3ZEbjNOu_-EFR4LK5EWb0SbwfVz7WNHFGI4nOFJmcixrVgyWkOlHCKiHFyhY2wVMMUVAbgU0MZeYkmC7Dn-Xq_EB9qV5S679FNAAd4AgPuRmyBg3Qi8KyLcWBGOO50upsDs/s1600/AV22_EO_Violet_8oz_3000x3000-300x300.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Like so many plants in the plant world that have made a comeback of sorts, I expect that African Violets are due another moment of time in the spotlight. </div><br /><p></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-9347700495784675132024-01-08T10:52:00.000-05:002024-01-08T10:53:05.333-05:00Tillandsia<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<i>Tillandsia</i> is a fascinating genus of bromeliads that have become popular due to their ease of growth, unique plant form and the crafting possibilities they encourage. These air plants are epiphytic in nature, meaning that, like many orchids and some ferns, they are able to take in moisture and nutrients from surrounding air and humidity directly onto their leaves. They may be found growing on another plant, like a tree, but are not parasitic in nature.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLHRTVclwpuNKH7cf5DYncxl8T_zMG7DN76pbUsMAbqJqy_2NtRZOnHgz5Sosj0q8-EZltbN1OnlhOtdZZE82tO8Dv4Beh-w3D6hyphenhyphen_GyVq2eHWRAVAFHolh_by2ApMGHzceaX-wdT6pn7fDD_lH7gzuQIjCM1J7M0VTonrN7I1vZ2z2wm26y1aOwR8tc/s3196/IMG_8784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2733" data-original-width="3196" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLHRTVclwpuNKH7cf5DYncxl8T_zMG7DN76pbUsMAbqJqy_2NtRZOnHgz5Sosj0q8-EZltbN1OnlhOtdZZE82tO8Dv4Beh-w3D6hyphenhyphen_GyVq2eHWRAVAFHolh_by2ApMGHzceaX-wdT6pn7fDD_lH7gzuQIjCM1J7M0VTonrN7I1vZ2z2wm26y1aOwR8tc/w400-h343/IMG_8784.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We maintain a nice assortment of tillandsias all year</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Spanish Moss, <i>Tillandsia usenoides</i>, is one variety that many of us are aware of as we have seen them in the humid south growing on live oaks and other trees.<br />
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<i>Tillandsia</i> can grow without soil, so are ideal for creating wall art, growing on rock and wood or displaying in all sorts of fun vessels, including seashells.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgV75XxhTSvOYAEsG2CTzaBTvDqIUe_9MbIXpWhcLmeM2Gi8dEutknghx9WIA4D7CB_r01ioA75MbewhEFnIpcUzE8YZuaKP59zv2H6EyEHVcGcwhXRlXUSK-WfNd7l4PyS6vhFYeWMo/s1600/hanging-spiral.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgV75XxhTSvOYAEsG2CTzaBTvDqIUe_9MbIXpWhcLmeM2Gi8dEutknghx9WIA4D7CB_r01ioA75MbewhEFnIpcUzE8YZuaKP59zv2H6EyEHVcGcwhXRlXUSK-WfNd7l4PyS6vhFYeWMo/s400/hanging-spiral.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVEveKwcI5dcG5A_-_esD8Hbj6s30lA2l01BgDQkavH6HRSKL92QBJvyD4xu-RGFqwJwpPSMAc6lwTYR7O7E_-X3jMhNrW5A-82kzUOiqs5XnFwGn0sU9IhneWjNVxVBgk_tWd1_SCz0/s1600/Unknown-3.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVEveKwcI5dcG5A_-_esD8Hbj6s30lA2l01BgDQkavH6HRSKL92QBJvyD4xu-RGFqwJwpPSMAc6lwTYR7O7E_-X3jMhNrW5A-82kzUOiqs5XnFwGn0sU9IhneWjNVxVBgk_tWd1_SCz0/s400/Unknown-3.jpeg" width="398" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Provide bright light and sufficient water to be rewarded by a durable plant with unforgettable shapes, colors and blooms. Plants grow from an offset at the base of the "mother" plant. Pups will reach maturity relatively fast. Once they bloom, expect another offset. <i>Tillandsia </i>can grow in clumps or be divided into individual specimens.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbsy5_1n92MguSdYWMYQLAECDYvWKC3P1XMjUEe-tprD7f9c0RrK09jRV7ZrJRrxTzjQ5B9Tnu5-CkypCGqNDHRFi0yFm3wZBaGuePCaRtd_sSaKcaOTMvlWoQ6HWYDuFMsUK2JpUZ8E/s1600/ionantha-ball.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbsy5_1n92MguSdYWMYQLAECDYvWKC3P1XMjUEe-tprD7f9c0RrK09jRV7ZrJRrxTzjQ5B9Tnu5-CkypCGqNDHRFi0yFm3wZBaGuePCaRtd_sSaKcaOTMvlWoQ6HWYDuFMsUK2JpUZ8E/s400/ionantha-ball.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ionantha</i> Ball</td></tr>
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Under watering <i>tillandsia</i> is the most common problem for the plant. Be sure to water them once a week. They will survive longer, but the leaves will dry out and begin to curl. I soak mine in water if it has been mounted on a frame, a shell or piece of driftwood. A larger plant could also be misted, but would need almost daily misting to keep the <i>tillandsia</i> healthy.<br />
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Here are varieties of <i>tillandsia</i> to consider for growing indoors<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbKL6hecjO3m7rF9swFCPx2i-JUUAd_OWHhyI-uvU5ZQf1qbbRINdBsfwSXkwXbHwmhKBieQ8DQ_JHcItdbvelXHuM4WLlCTgT3U4R7GF5p5AbvWuvnuDUDKl_5GJCh-Qeq_hgvBW8K0Y/s1600/aeranthos.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbKL6hecjO3m7rF9swFCPx2i-JUUAd_OWHhyI-uvU5ZQf1qbbRINdBsfwSXkwXbHwmhKBieQ8DQ_JHcItdbvelXHuM4WLlCTgT3U4R7GF5p5AbvWuvnuDUDKl_5GJCh-Qeq_hgvBW8K0Y/s400/aeranthos.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Aeranthos</i> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXD-CRfkvKkFni2AFYhfFXY1N4SeV7ZXRShsXbWj3SUQtidDU67DMlMm5YrcEU9L6VXt2U-WGvdQbGemRikS_vQdTs-aHxE4XGHMp_QgrYY8iNsVZ_QneK8Cahw0xBXmw-u-KnaFItiXM/s1600/Araujei.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="798" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXD-CRfkvKkFni2AFYhfFXY1N4SeV7ZXRShsXbWj3SUQtidDU67DMlMm5YrcEU9L6VXt2U-WGvdQbGemRikS_vQdTs-aHxE4XGHMp_QgrYY8iNsVZ_QneK8Cahw0xBXmw-u-KnaFItiXM/s400/Araujei.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Araujei</i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwLztfGSFdvU4I4OiGRuIsC1Lif5ezxwa5bYyPt3vM2jfCgGDSPTYK39PHBhrUISfl1URUNl4HYmssQQwGmYScLBPsVAGzzcTHejPPvmM5SChHaJJc4OTHk3z7fUmrCvnjaRuvGf-KrI/s1600/ionantha.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwLztfGSFdvU4I4OiGRuIsC1Lif5ezxwa5bYyPt3vM2jfCgGDSPTYK39PHBhrUISfl1URUNl4HYmssQQwGmYScLBPsVAGzzcTHejPPvmM5SChHaJJc4OTHk3z7fUmrCvnjaRuvGf-KrI/s400/ionantha.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ionantha</i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpZIW7sGvEdWBOOkq2YhHESIUHO-l0U1RlKBDhsTxOxSuwJC50w11y4TsGb12oxNzvVpp-Oshe1jYkNw_jz3rMWRaRDo9RHJOMHqXzU7CNVdSDvEOmKVKNhszy-yeGYUUdQ3WewuGLjo/s1600/funkinana.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpZIW7sGvEdWBOOkq2YhHESIUHO-l0U1RlKBDhsTxOxSuwJC50w11y4TsGb12oxNzvVpp-Oshe1jYkNw_jz3rMWRaRDo9RHJOMHqXzU7CNVdSDvEOmKVKNhszy-yeGYUUdQ3WewuGLjo/s400/funkinana.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Funkinana</i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqoctbTWY1anxhMMuW4PS4fHrOGzRLs3thjc68whG00Gmpm7qjNmTUZADjS7ZyJU29iYChpdvyJwZhGFGp2H5wP0tjXUSCEzmmZQbtbv3nfKBZYmZa8ll9OagR_bUDHll6SKRK49-tPM/s1600/Capitata.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="798" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqoctbTWY1anxhMMuW4PS4fHrOGzRLs3thjc68whG00Gmpm7qjNmTUZADjS7ZyJU29iYChpdvyJwZhGFGp2H5wP0tjXUSCEzmmZQbtbv3nfKBZYmZa8ll9OagR_bUDHll6SKRK49-tPM/s400/Capitata.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Xerographica</i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DfqdGSJpoanQrTitTHed7I4gVwCISpkIICvD_LEiNgGrT1Ad7Bo1w1ha_jw_n5i-bJM_FcN35TQYLflaA4XcMNynx8PoAWIfDvlVBaplt0rrqC573TOGFbBxPa2KoU51kfgnKT2hpdI/s1600/capitata-maroon-hybrid.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DfqdGSJpoanQrTitTHed7I4gVwCISpkIICvD_LEiNgGrT1Ad7Bo1w1ha_jw_n5i-bJM_FcN35TQYLflaA4XcMNynx8PoAWIfDvlVBaplt0rrqC573TOGFbBxPa2KoU51kfgnKT2hpdI/s400/capitata-maroon-hybrid.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Capitata</i> Maroon Hybrid</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDvGFyG5BlBb6j0tyOKK25tn16VsnEYfRjdRigDqoHnt7AUFlNeuxsaTzM3HXijXWhQLkickCAg7gcwJ1lX3NHREcGxVjUSAyANyziRcxfGTzT-ECwQ16qbVYOzkB3I7LunH0yGqNZwo/s1600/bulbosa-hybrid.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDvGFyG5BlBb6j0tyOKK25tn16VsnEYfRjdRigDqoHnt7AUFlNeuxsaTzM3HXijXWhQLkickCAg7gcwJ1lX3NHREcGxVjUSAyANyziRcxfGTzT-ECwQ16qbVYOzkB3I7LunH0yGqNZwo/s400/bulbosa-hybrid.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bulbosa </i>Hybrid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXvE2qmF9eEHEnOQ0sNzubhUg94DFSEGP3GvqT9n0VpSqWBxkBJO8aTHmqt41BcjOI_PDytE4GZ5N6NQMqR9m3Buagr81v4zPBqRWXWxTvdwzte9ZOscJO1NjWMfflwPkz4TLP4bAkX9E/s1600/brachycaulous-abdita.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXvE2qmF9eEHEnOQ0sNzubhUg94DFSEGP3GvqT9n0VpSqWBxkBJO8aTHmqt41BcjOI_PDytE4GZ5N6NQMqR9m3Buagr81v4zPBqRWXWxTvdwzte9ZOscJO1NjWMfflwPkz4TLP4bAkX9E/s400/brachycaulous-abdita.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Brachycaulos Abdita</i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7B397kT09WfcPsAXMq-pf2dVJgmJNj6tvctvfIWGwVfgrXUaEh5-hhyBljFQYiA5CDmeoRqYShmxGkNbIX2TLAL3WV0-NDfavlRE2oBYZoKXUuSC6iqQzZSOMpNnG05nGDpAdLPBzCc/s1600/lonantha-fuego.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="799" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7B397kT09WfcPsAXMq-pf2dVJgmJNj6tvctvfIWGwVfgrXUaEh5-hhyBljFQYiA5CDmeoRqYShmxGkNbIX2TLAL3WV0-NDfavlRE2oBYZoKXUuSC6iqQzZSOMpNnG05nGDpAdLPBzCc/s400/lonantha-fuego.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ionantha Fuego</i></td></tr>
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These and many more varieties, large and small, are now available in our greenhouse. We will be hosting a seminar on how to grow <i>tillandsia</i> and will offer a frame project to interested attendees on Saturday, February 17 at 9:00 am. Visit our <a href="http://www.valleyviewfarms.com/" target="_blank">website</a> for information on this and other upcoming classes.<div><br /></div><div>Thanks to Russell's Bromeliads for many of these wonderful photos. <br /><div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofWaporb29OGm9MotjMpTIA7RtkpniNCKpa1Mt8rm_gTpVoWqMydrJa-3EIwWcUa0XRh5-doVst3i4eCHwfTLXP6xSmmEFHM7ayJN5rkZ2-Nt_pohGhk4tVRxDXLHix7lgZUM1H8XmLojctS5WKUiM5GdJZRPYINoOk9wuGyE1TVCY_mh2cBE9FrjwwI/s4032/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofWaporb29OGm9MotjMpTIA7RtkpniNCKpa1Mt8rm_gTpVoWqMydrJa-3EIwWcUa0XRh5-doVst3i4eCHwfTLXP6xSmmEFHM7ayJN5rkZ2-Nt_pohGhk4tVRxDXLHix7lgZUM1H8XmLojctS5WKUiM5GdJZRPYINoOk9wuGyE1TVCY_mh2cBE9FrjwwI/w400-h300/IMG_8785.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many forms and sizes are available now.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-13644928315913532922023-12-30T10:18:00.003-05:002023-12-31T14:35:40.974-05:00January and February Seminar Schedule<p> Opportunities for learning are everywhere, and we are back to a busy in-person seminar schedule for winter and early spring. Take a look at our schedule here and look for updates on our <a href="http://www.valleyviewfarms.com/" target="_blank">website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ValleyViewFarms/" target="_blank">facebook</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/valleyviewfarmsgc/" target="_blank">instagram</a> pages. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SYZbd0QwPUZgTu1ArXwZV_X_74uTZDlJFG4Koy3ibGXdtGPJVpk2iIzZ1Yvn8owrnP4BinuHOTO41paPbterzVOq-IoWh4XNPhCyjWG_ljgLX0X9mAGxaMvhbc3xgs6OU2z4pCluHWC-cxaMQn81Waaxk8FSeAkbTzBqcHJVOb51jK4nl4Vc-uTwZT0/s4032/IMG_7030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SYZbd0QwPUZgTu1ArXwZV_X_74uTZDlJFG4Koy3ibGXdtGPJVpk2iIzZ1Yvn8owrnP4BinuHOTO41paPbterzVOq-IoWh4XNPhCyjWG_ljgLX0X9mAGxaMvhbc3xgs6OU2z4pCluHWC-cxaMQn81Waaxk8FSeAkbTzBqcHJVOb51jK4nl4Vc-uTwZT0/s320/IMG_7030.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We will usually meet in our greenhouse</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Welcome to the World of Bonsai</b> January 6, 9 am: We're delighted to have Martha Meehan, of Meehan's Miniatures back again this year. The first of 11 seminars that Martha will host is a basic class for new enthusiasts. Ficus is our Plant of the month. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOeM-wcWlwW5tObxyXyCrjNTJ3LSBGfJNQotY2syew7U52XMDyxojTNVR58rXXR4RQr8MIIB85Zq6V3IzuKJfcHN6wEqg3K9GxMEbdjGMcn8r0CoK6hQXNsH2FGfrEm2yg6RJFv2DO-D7Lp8MqdRqTbUuSLL5zoeVIweTc5w1PdQlJeIhgK2y21GwRfQ/s2171/IMG_7117.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1635" data-original-width="2171" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOeM-wcWlwW5tObxyXyCrjNTJ3LSBGfJNQotY2syew7U52XMDyxojTNVR58rXXR4RQr8MIIB85Zq6V3IzuKJfcHN6wEqg3K9GxMEbdjGMcn8r0CoK6hQXNsH2FGfrEm2yg6RJFv2DO-D7Lp8MqdRqTbUuSLL5zoeVIweTc5w1PdQlJeIhgK2y21GwRfQ/s320/IMG_7117.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha's classes are scheduled the first Saturday of every month</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b>Native Plants Winter Sowing Workshop</b> January 13, 10 am: <a href="https://wildonesbaltimore.wixsite.com/home">Wild Ones Greater Baltimore</a> hopes to educate and empower gardeners to help their local and surrounding ecosystems grow and thrive by using native plants and sustainable practices in our landscapes. Join Vinaya Frank and members of our local community for a winter seed sowing workshop to learn more about growing natives in our gardens. Please register for this class via our <a href="http://valleyviewfarms.com">website</a> or <a href="https://wildonesbaltimore.wixsite.com/home">the website for</a> Wild Ones. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2OVqANoXzIVoppSpQXDFsjeBoGFnOtZqFbn3p4pSoKzhSZU97VXQfG56nU5nnfZBLlC9wJdHXvLtF9i-3N818xLgxtT5BeaRFkCPWHDqhTKrUCPfERm_1niwj7zxhB8OMpPv0_fSbQpnlJVFvRE0_NjTXXwjUSfwObC077j5osE3NiZQSPk3tg0lSwM/s940/https___cdn.evbuc.com_images_655960569_1125203632713_1_original.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="940" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2OVqANoXzIVoppSpQXDFsjeBoGFnOtZqFbn3p4pSoKzhSZU97VXQfG56nU5nnfZBLlC9wJdHXvLtF9i-3N818xLgxtT5BeaRFkCPWHDqhTKrUCPfERm_1niwj7zxhB8OMpPv0_fSbQpnlJVFvRE0_NjTXXwjUSfwObC077j5osE3NiZQSPk3tg0lSwM/s320/https___cdn.evbuc.com_images_655960569_1125203632713_1_original.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Wild Ones Greater Baltimore</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Plant a Pot of Succulents Workshop</b> January 27, 9 am: Plant your own potted garden of succulents. Our locally grown plants come in many varieties. Most plants cost $4.99. Include a clay pot, 3-5 succulents and soil for an approximate cost of $35 for today’s project. Led by our Greenhouse staff.</p><p><b>Kokedama Workshop</b> January 27, 11:00 am: The Japanese Kokedama translates to moss ball. Chris will provide today’s instruction as we transplant plants into muck, then wrap the roots in moss. String design will finish off the project. The Kokedama balls can be displayed on a shelf or hung from the ceiling. Average cost of project $25.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzUDH9SuXrlqDqqVr0rjWmtNl8ZMPhM8TRGsnXxUV6MBlUyrZWyPjKBZkyz4tHpIoEdGWCbDCqY6caV60MjJRhEHC66e8V9nChFzNhuyBykLiMWqeXxCuv0-0jl47ylVdLayDeUdnZw4Ex8L8kWrAvq-P5evF01K10ED3TmoVAzA7mlMw26gi5CT9Bf0/s4032/IMG_4103.JPEG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzUDH9SuXrlqDqqVr0rjWmtNl8ZMPhM8TRGsnXxUV6MBlUyrZWyPjKBZkyz4tHpIoEdGWCbDCqY6caV60MjJRhEHC66e8V9nChFzNhuyBykLiMWqeXxCuv0-0jl47ylVdLayDeUdnZw4Ex8L8kWrAvq-P5evF01K10ED3TmoVAzA7mlMw26gi5CT9Bf0/s320/IMG_4103.JPEG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris loves Kokedama</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b>Bonsai Care and Feeding</b> February 3, 9:00 am: Today’s seminar teaches enthusiasts about fertilizers, soils, and potting bonsai. Propagation of the plants we use for bonsai will also be addressed. Martha Meehan leads the class. Our Plant of the Month is Chamaecyparis.</p><p><b>Orchid Care and Repotting</b> February 3, 11:00 am: Eric will demonstrate repotting an orchid. Bring your orchid; we will lend a helping hand as participants then repot their own plants. There will be a small fee for Orchid Potting Mix.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ovU3jn834muy1xJDxwna2qZAeJGR3VbBGquG5XDTqasc2YLIp_U0yQVjte98cHAzQpuZRbsqFtunYSnU3mVj1b6LSUMjRDpW378nRnYtUCJjW02uMKbrOihC0YkAHumJONr2CZIkpw_vCmuXX4O51PTCqdLHj0UCOyS-nSyH5tFmZ0znYK3TbRs_zcw/s3069/IMG_0581.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1593" data-original-width="3069" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ovU3jn834muy1xJDxwna2qZAeJGR3VbBGquG5XDTqasc2YLIp_U0yQVjte98cHAzQpuZRbsqFtunYSnU3mVj1b6LSUMjRDpW378nRnYtUCJjW02uMKbrOihC0YkAHumJONr2CZIkpw_vCmuXX4O51PTCqdLHj0UCOyS-nSyH5tFmZ0znYK3TbRs_zcw/w320-h166/IMG_0581.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric demonstrates orchid care</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><b>Container Gardens and Terrariums for Valentine's Day Workshop </b>February 10, 9:00 am: Create an adorable garden for your sweetheart (or yourself) using indoor plants with a heart. We will use red and pink plants and/or plants with heart-shaped leaves to design today’s planter. Children are welcome. Average cost of materials: $30.00. Brittany and Abby</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;">Miniature and Fairy Garden Workshop</b><span style="text-align: left;"> February 10, 11:00 am: Create a new fairy garden or update an older garden with today’s workshop combining the best of design techniques with plants suitable for miniature gardening. The cost of your fairy garden will be based on the pot, soil, fairies, and plants.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI15sAAIwVs1oVu3TPAq48tnlfexxdsZctKmwUPkYeNnuoThqnrq24lvf1jLh3fgYHbGbfYSpDHfecPjiM8CRoJgmJw3rQ0K_EcgxnejNHJnNjG1CPCV6sQJ0_TNvxUMt5rifDSjPgiCCoxoZIKXHUo-iXDll8yw3kMVWkGWpwMNM6AI6VvyROFZ_dNg/s2875/IMG_5452%201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2875" data-original-width="2613" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI15sAAIwVs1oVu3TPAq48tnlfexxdsZctKmwUPkYeNnuoThqnrq24lvf1jLh3fgYHbGbfYSpDHfecPjiM8CRoJgmJw3rQ0K_EcgxnejNHJnNjG1CPCV6sQJ0_TNvxUMt5rifDSjPgiCCoxoZIKXHUo-iXDll8yw3kMVWkGWpwMNM6AI6VvyROFZ_dNg/w291-h320/IMG_5452%201.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><b style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></div>Tillandsia (Air-plant) and Bromeliad Workshop</b><span style="text-align: left;"> February 17, 9:00 am: Air-plants have become very popular due to their ease of care and amazing design possibilities. Our Greenhouse team will present several designs. Participants may create their own. Most tillandsias cost $4.99. Total project costs will vary.</span></div><p></p><p><b>What's New in Houseplants and Tropicals?</b> February 24, 9:00 am: Houseplants and Tropicals are HOT! Learn about some of the new varieties available from Valley View Farms and our growers from Florida. Stay connected through our Instagram posts. Learn from Eric, our buyer, who’s passion for houseplants knows no bounds. <br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0AMSrQYYeep6ObK90xjxy_0E1zrbd-XZAH3xD49UmbMdX4_OTFPCDgVXcaU3tqqNVZ1_MEoC78jTCj6N5MmsLWmBIbiKmSRZ32rzG4dgQ_Mkq4SBWeQlfXmxJ0F_CMylE4DGU5Ftm6ypkd81p1h1daoEUTX-Ms-Pl9ceVgt8p-HsBlm8MwvGyXf12ts/s4032/IMG_7568.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0AMSrQYYeep6ObK90xjxy_0E1zrbd-XZAH3xD49UmbMdX4_OTFPCDgVXcaU3tqqNVZ1_MEoC78jTCj6N5MmsLWmBIbiKmSRZ32rzG4dgQ_Mkq4SBWeQlfXmxJ0F_CMylE4DGU5Ftm6ypkd81p1h1daoEUTX-Ms-Pl9ceVgt8p-HsBlm8MwvGyXf12ts/s320/IMG_7568.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric and Cynthia are 2 of our knowledgeable speakers </td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Vegetable Gardening Basics</b> February 24, 11:00 am: New to gardening? Learn about what plants need to grow, seeds vs. transplants, how to read seed packets and fertilizer labels, gardening zones and best planting dates, sustainable and organic gardening practices, dealing with weeds, insects, and diseases, when to harvest, planting in the ground vs. in containers, soil amendments, pH, and more. Carrie will lead today’s class and discussion. </p><p>We will be donating $5 per workshop participant to the <a href="https://www.wbal.com/kids/">WBAL Radio Kids Campaign</a>.</p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-61561653332395062252023-12-28T14:23:00.000-05:002023-12-28T14:23:31.935-05:00Plant of the Week: Rosemary<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJfc4F1TvSnNP5ZAPH0H6BV5qLLe7MIyxsfkS8xxdi2ZL2TjDdDNuiU7DfrPvi0dkNon7-ogu32c1AvD-JOqAloVxTQJ5XCGdoVrKg2VLqZmP9AdIRm1c_qdxYrmlHytn4h3ZJOiusjPzNN6avodyTaG0ZN2saeu7pJLw-9DBvn70nBReJj41-IphY10/s4032/IMG_8421.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJfc4F1TvSnNP5ZAPH0H6BV5qLLe7MIyxsfkS8xxdi2ZL2TjDdDNuiU7DfrPvi0dkNon7-ogu32c1AvD-JOqAloVxTQJ5XCGdoVrKg2VLqZmP9AdIRm1c_qdxYrmlHytn4h3ZJOiusjPzNN6avodyTaG0ZN2saeu7pJLw-9DBvn70nBReJj41-IphY10/w300-h400/IMG_8421.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />Rosemary is a fragrant herb that grows as a tender perennial in our area, but is reliably hardy in USDA zones 8 or higher. Rosemary, <i>Salvia rosmarinus,</i> previously known as <i>Rosmarinus officinalis, </i>sports gray-green leaves on woody stems. Some varieties grow very upright, others have a trailing habit. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC63hoDeD7dm5n2unriAyTWd7N-2cZ5wAMqSWHKcax6V8GKM-SNkXTEA_ynrPnYfEgjSrooroxOXt8rU5ILa4jziDo7aCvSnm4GYQUVemYwwEv2zlVERPVxY7Ylp84oXyy7gXW0-cFb0hoEC-WhefB6oN7qCcZGwmE-knVEO-E8RMAQRaGsFxvHR4po1w/s4032/IMG_0180.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC63hoDeD7dm5n2unriAyTWd7N-2cZ5wAMqSWHKcax6V8GKM-SNkXTEA_ynrPnYfEgjSrooroxOXt8rU5ILa4jziDo7aCvSnm4GYQUVemYwwEv2zlVERPVxY7Ylp84oXyy7gXW0-cFb0hoEC-WhefB6oN7qCcZGwmE-knVEO-E8RMAQRaGsFxvHR4po1w/s320/IMG_0180.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan grows Rosemary in Calvert County, MD</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_AFG_T454J11LalmmrEfBJD2JS6XhyThRhYkIBK6E5D4JlKbJRS2mIhdK2Mvwbadd9EpdLv_XxvozWs8TULP7mAaJhY9qHU3bG8SiF4yhCyqjbRPpLfubXspaHsrG99mr-6Eawv5t0zN8tO8Yz2tijYPhpxZDml2qJXqvqcueg20LDTvedG7R2svI1sk/s4032/IMG_0182.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_AFG_T454J11LalmmrEfBJD2JS6XhyThRhYkIBK6E5D4JlKbJRS2mIhdK2Mvwbadd9EpdLv_XxvozWs8TULP7mAaJhY9qHU3bG8SiF4yhCyqjbRPpLfubXspaHsrG99mr-6Eawv5t0zN8tO8Yz2tijYPhpxZDml2qJXqvqcueg20LDTvedG7R2svI1sk/s320/IMG_0182.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, the chickens are photobombing the pic</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><p></p><p>Small clusters of purple-blue, or sometimes white flowers bloom spring into fall. Native to Mediterranean region in dry, rocky areas, Rosemary should be planted in an area with full sun, in a light soil that drains well, whether in a container or in the ground. The plant does not tolerate wet, humid spaces. </p><br /><p></p><p>Rosemary is adaptable to all sorts of gardens. Wonderful in pollinator and cutting gardens, in edible and rock gardens, the fragrance of this evergreen shrub is suitable for patios too. </p><p>Rosemary is known as the herb of remembrance. It's fragrance is immediately identifiable; rosemary is often used in potpourris and sachets. It is cultivated as a prized culinary herb as well, used in recipes for roasted potatoes, chicken, biscuits and many beverages. I was gifted a Mocktail gift basket, that included rosemary to be used in several beverage recipes. A friend made some delicious rosemary and sugared walnuts...yum!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecvfL2FrlEAq5Sy1Eih9KrwHQhp50yue6_OTYfNzS0LIfc5D4TqCZFxRac1y0urfk8SE5bmh3LsOBwTIqP3AoWR7so5LM7-6E7nPDTXOloyQfJCBfC3ZF80AsjjCo8QfQe6FrdikoOdsPC0ZtuvUJYfJRBMUdbRUu-N0K6ALxMBmidc9WoCZ8ItKnZ2c/s2785/IMG_5829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2785" data-original-width="1573" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecvfL2FrlEAq5Sy1Eih9KrwHQhp50yue6_OTYfNzS0LIfc5D4TqCZFxRac1y0urfk8SE5bmh3LsOBwTIqP3AoWR7so5LM7-6E7nPDTXOloyQfJCBfC3ZF80AsjjCo8QfQe6FrdikoOdsPC0ZtuvUJYfJRBMUdbRUu-N0K6ALxMBmidc9WoCZ8ItKnZ2c/w226-h400/IMG_5829.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Larger pots of Rosemary are often available</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>In most cases, Rosemary would need to overwinter indoors in our area. Place the plant in a sunny window, with good air circulation around the plant. Use Rosemary often; it grows back quickly. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T2_FzfdGZX8fle3qlnw99TTSyARdqzMDY9H9NBm0wyixsxRixLSJhI5iRmgiWZrUo_OhphqXXre8ErcPObw68BwTY7r7lK7x5SLwWfU4lAEXxkbzLr5S0vLT_4veNRjjaUNwqxm-IIqJwYQIed7CH3DMRF0tj3PSwq7tZGQt6A10c-k69eAHeS2B9oo/s2400/LTRN6314.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T2_FzfdGZX8fle3qlnw99TTSyARdqzMDY9H9NBm0wyixsxRixLSJhI5iRmgiWZrUo_OhphqXXre8ErcPObw68BwTY7r7lK7x5SLwWfU4lAEXxkbzLr5S0vLT_4veNRjjaUNwqxm-IIqJwYQIed7CH3DMRF0tj3PSwq7tZGQt6A10c-k69eAHeS2B9oo/w400-h266/LTRN6314.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Rosemary, growing in Capetown, South Africa's famed Kirstenboch Botanical Garden, looks similar but has a different botanical name than the Mediterranean Rosemary</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>We carry many varieties of Rosemary in the spring, from small starter plants to larger specimens available to us from our herb grower. A few varieties are available year 'round. </p></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-29064964967682035152023-12-17T08:02:00.002-05:002023-12-17T08:02:32.600-05:00Plant of the Week: Bonsai<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFO0UHXw-eW1XNEOcftdpl7cStcmM5n7-cjHvZckHzOgm7BgNf786NUP3wopaKbxcJwD-Xogc7gFj6e6kiu794M1-2xa3nK1O9z-IKKJnWPaHSG8q4RcFvmzDZpSkx7y58UQsaCoyNuwWhTo-3sFnjfEwSODaJC4UBx0L_qZ7uJ_dC1sNiSDKQLmHrKA/s2102/IMG_1585.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2102" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFO0UHXw-eW1XNEOcftdpl7cStcmM5n7-cjHvZckHzOgm7BgNf786NUP3wopaKbxcJwD-Xogc7gFj6e6kiu794M1-2xa3nK1O9z-IKKJnWPaHSG8q4RcFvmzDZpSkx7y58UQsaCoyNuwWhTo-3sFnjfEwSODaJC4UBx0L_qZ7uJ_dC1sNiSDKQLmHrKA/w305-h400/IMG_1585.jpg" width="305" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonsai, tree in a pot, includes many plants grown around the world.</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgB96A0ubHLmUnuIXea-nNZAZqE4uaQD-rm-StQLb9_t3LWEqthIE6Azmv2taRmtrRqnvOK7Kdi6TzmqJwVXV2gOw1SUtQYWCp2kIVvLyERKWlsqc2eS3xNEIiN3Tg7c2xvu3Hu938669pWkqmxsMLy7_QwA7IXYES0vXH3rujH3Ud9auRtxUSQNKnyA/s2063/IMG_1583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1558" data-original-width="2063" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgB96A0ubHLmUnuIXea-nNZAZqE4uaQD-rm-StQLb9_t3LWEqthIE6Azmv2taRmtrRqnvOK7Kdi6TzmqJwVXV2gOw1SUtQYWCp2kIVvLyERKWlsqc2eS3xNEIiN3Tg7c2xvu3Hu938669pWkqmxsMLy7_QwA7IXYES0vXH3rujH3Ud9auRtxUSQNKnyA/w200-h151/IMG_1583.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deciduous Bonsai</td></tr></tbody></table>This week, we visit the world of Bonsai. Bonsai, simply translated, means tree in pot. Bonsai does not refer to a specific type of plant material. Many of us have watched The Karate Kid movies that featured Junipers. Evergreens, like Junipers, and Deciduous trees, (materials that lose their leaves in the winter), produce excellent specimens.</p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiR_Ws8T0OHFQnO98-Ucv6CHGbMHp4taUcnTOE7EF4qC5yyYtfIbApC_0uzNhUL6VcUXppM_blohkqLbSfJYxD7wzchfSaynLTrTBfp0cLMB6tWIIJxyWiRxCmJxP5esbglx8mYZk7Rq3g-LWIIvY_NpUoztqOwniXYODyyslV44h0Ecl_OCRERztG80/s1903/IMG_1584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1903" data-original-width="1558" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiR_Ws8T0OHFQnO98-Ucv6CHGbMHp4taUcnTOE7EF4qC5yyYtfIbApC_0uzNhUL6VcUXppM_blohkqLbSfJYxD7wzchfSaynLTrTBfp0cLMB6tWIIJxyWiRxCmJxP5esbglx8mYZk7Rq3g-LWIIvY_NpUoztqOwniXYODyyslV44h0Ecl_OCRERztG80/w164-h200/IMG_1584.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pomegranate</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />We have found at our garden center that most people want to grow their bonsai indoors for most or part of the year. For that reason, we carry primarily tropical and sub-tropical finished bonsai and starter plants in our greenhouse. Materials for outdoor bonsai can be found outside with our regular nursery stock. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERLzGvt_KcdX1l6iYAir_AW4N5gc3a7GaxZCvUOESxFDAmR0314ZVarjHwWpFJClinj1cH9zYktifkUrob521PI-5jh8aRrPpN_0VpN5Wy2sPd_qR36289PpjUdBp_TsEGz7VRbh01TfGA_pGS36bpWwXNDSlAK2fXPZk3vt5D2ed_B4JkqGtn-zyFPA/s4032/IMG_8434%202.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERLzGvt_KcdX1l6iYAir_AW4N5gc3a7GaxZCvUOESxFDAmR0314ZVarjHwWpFJClinj1cH9zYktifkUrob521PI-5jh8aRrPpN_0VpN5Wy2sPd_qR36289PpjUdBp_TsEGz7VRbh01TfGA_pGS36bpWwXNDSlAK2fXPZk3vt5D2ed_B4JkqGtn-zyFPA/w400-h300/IMG_8434%202.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mistletoe Fig finished Bonsai</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukiCEjbxdG2aFOiDEH8rxWk6JirNFZ50ykqpYN0jYKDe2AQUwW0SnZ23w2LyfYAmoIcHi9ZDG9WlI-u5zSm43uibJ7VVpFL5iIu2f342x7BgP4PExL4UPQl9ih50jzZ3nnzoU7eVr_Uv3E6o2jxuwGUqvnrRLndAoqptoVQyqMqCmGKbCLxe6D0WWRfM/s4032/IMG_8435.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukiCEjbxdG2aFOiDEH8rxWk6JirNFZ50ykqpYN0jYKDe2AQUwW0SnZ23w2LyfYAmoIcHi9ZDG9WlI-u5zSm43uibJ7VVpFL5iIu2f342x7BgP4PExL4UPQl9ih50jzZ3nnzoU7eVr_Uv3E6o2jxuwGUqvnrRLndAoqptoVQyqMqCmGKbCLxe6D0WWRfM/w400-h300/IMG_8435.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bougainvillea finished Bonsai<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Our Bonsai grower propagates, grows, and trains the material we carry from beginning to end. We have a nice selection of finished Bonsai, starter plants, wire, bonsai pots, soils mixed for specific types of trees, and accent plants that we use as companion plants and in terrariums. We are very honored to have Martha Meehan from Meehan's Miniatures teach classes at Valley View Farms on the first Saturday of every month. Our first class of the season, on Saturday, January 6,at 9 am, is an excellent time for people who are new to the hobby to learn the basics of Bonsai tree care. Bring your tree to the class with you if you would like. Pick up a schedule while here in the store, or check our website for the monthly schedule. We will have a Create Your Own Bonsai workshop for our April 6th meeting. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9KeMu-FK-4aDa-tZoRyH8dUCu_LK7alu9jItR2Bn9ST6G-AppYkdCZ04e6NUKhc3pEm632egVnyaG_Wb6jA41F3yLK3ZwV7EvFyLEKn08_XxRZEFmVZbAjcAeSybgt8RxoUnoEtugj9RihkDDsOjTSspvbW22T4FRcIYpOgPr4CSyVR1tb0_OQP0ds1k/s640/IMG_7030.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9KeMu-FK-4aDa-tZoRyH8dUCu_LK7alu9jItR2Bn9ST6G-AppYkdCZ04e6NUKhc3pEm632egVnyaG_Wb6jA41F3yLK3ZwV7EvFyLEKn08_XxRZEFmVZbAjcAeSybgt8RxoUnoEtugj9RihkDDsOjTSspvbW22T4FRcIYpOgPr4CSyVR1tb0_OQP0ds1k/w400-h300/IMG_7030.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha Meehan conducting a Bonsai seminar in or greenhouse</td></tr></tbody></table><p>I've been very fortunate to see Bonsai at Martha's nursery, the Bonsai collections at both Longwood Gardens and the National Arboretum, and other Botanical Gardens across the United States. On a trip to South Africa a few years ago, our group visited the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town where we viewed more beautiful Bonsai trees.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3nxfjaXS95sfnLiV2z3upWSLl-K8OrF8-XLDCQLU3r54ifJsYug2HKi75HnsNwxZJg8sufHxZTG2apYFmrahhyRURjJBTZbrQQJ80pPmSb_BBnFGVUrEuqiy77HlfGdxiZqfUQlft_5Ad78fN1txuoRma2bDmma1HMfoBn8K1ZR-MI1sgpN2GX0LF1Y/s2400/JBEB7100.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3nxfjaXS95sfnLiV2z3upWSLl-K8OrF8-XLDCQLU3r54ifJsYug2HKi75HnsNwxZJg8sufHxZTG2apYFmrahhyRURjJBTZbrQQJ80pPmSb_BBnFGVUrEuqiy77HlfGdxiZqfUQlft_5Ad78fN1txuoRma2bDmma1HMfoBn8K1ZR-MI1sgpN2GX0LF1Y/w400-h266/JBEB7100.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLcTTZFgyp6VGNKVedCw_vvgwzg7NdN7VxvMCUp-8f6o3SuwQY9sW19FaGPf8tQaRv7Yk38SOcwuNu0YfqXNzFaAhM2pqWAddpIZEuhUZV0ohGV4NoKL3lIZKQ2LWQSFYqonLKJ1tRIfgfSQEW57uC9VJ7RXbZ5szAF6n42jZEKxa7jcVJ7SRByvMc5s/s2400/XRZB3808.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLcTTZFgyp6VGNKVedCw_vvgwzg7NdN7VxvMCUp-8f6o3SuwQY9sW19FaGPf8tQaRv7Yk38SOcwuNu0YfqXNzFaAhM2pqWAddpIZEuhUZV0ohGV4NoKL3lIZKQ2LWQSFYqonLKJ1tRIfgfSQEW57uC9VJ7RXbZ5szAF6n42jZEKxa7jcVJ7SRByvMc5s/w400-h266/XRZB3808.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brittany loves to travel and enjoys plants wherever she goes</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78t5O0RxnVfa1bvrVypVIq0LDlwm5UKcSfLEaodyiEOPYzwSyEs9sFhwaXsUiaTGoHfqmgAoIqpxLRCCy3tWLi07g6aOEMpAEaqZ4Rtskz2y-8gdjHGaMhdPQ3uGMg4rrcCAzzYSlrblFzhE-HWotiHe6XV5m81H1lLcO-JSfQpZobhqbkIAbQMl40M0/s2400/WBZH5922.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1502" data-original-width="2400" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78t5O0RxnVfa1bvrVypVIq0LDlwm5UKcSfLEaodyiEOPYzwSyEs9sFhwaXsUiaTGoHfqmgAoIqpxLRCCy3tWLi07g6aOEMpAEaqZ4Rtskz2y-8gdjHGaMhdPQ3uGMg4rrcCAzzYSlrblFzhE-HWotiHe6XV5m81H1lLcO-JSfQpZobhqbkIAbQMl40M0/w400-h250/WBZH5922.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt is a Bonsai enthusiast in Southern California. Like me, he enjoyed seeing this collection halfway around the world. </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">The collections were extraordinary in all of the locations we visited. I am envious of Martha and her husband Hugh's visit to China many years ago to see the art/science used in creating these beauties where it began. </span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWcaprN5qcUxjT6XA-9pjozdxmVOx9WtBvRmrbsf-LpE2VwTZVGTkaSf7QVk0D8irdPfy8q3VD7F7hKF7bgpu00vucoGveYACoPxSTzWl8NChhcESJtlpX8IfET1FtYYdeZQD95up1Bx1CkIjgECvLl87xKpx655CCRRlRtf2Q-mE87OlG-JabpiNCCs/s4032/IMG_3298.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWcaprN5qcUxjT6XA-9pjozdxmVOx9WtBvRmrbsf-LpE2VwTZVGTkaSf7QVk0D8irdPfy8q3VD7F7hKF7bgpu00vucoGveYACoPxSTzWl8NChhcESJtlpX8IfET1FtYYdeZQD95up1Bx1CkIjgECvLl87xKpx655CCRRlRtf2Q-mE87OlG-JabpiNCCs/s320/IMG_3298.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I'll be starting a bit smaller, working on Bonsai that may be just a few years in training. Wish me luck. <br /><p><br /></p><br />Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-87544514325209799582023-12-12T09:55:00.001-05:002023-12-12T10:00:34.589-05:00Plant of the Week: Frosty Ferns<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTR2HXfE2z6BOJceEappmBVuqyxAi4W9kLVdbRsrsMTl5cAIZXVTe5wol-9S8h88R49CPOHTrpj3L64X3ruIVmm1kYLwxbJFgpkTq1zPhVZRIcCdqqKuK5V_ZPQFRGGRPoQ73f-kBvj0Lm6XTwgMAVq5xWrjueM0smKu-Mvd7vwhW1CeMe_9OQq1xZzsY/s4032/IMG_8441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTR2HXfE2z6BOJceEappmBVuqyxAi4W9kLVdbRsrsMTl5cAIZXVTe5wol-9S8h88R49CPOHTrpj3L64X3ruIVmm1kYLwxbJFgpkTq1zPhVZRIcCdqqKuK5V_ZPQFRGGRPoQ73f-kBvj0Lm6XTwgMAVq5xWrjueM0smKu-Mvd7vwhW1CeMe_9OQq1xZzsY/w300-h400/IMG_8441.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gift basket features a white Princettia, English ivy, Plumosa fern and Frosty fern. </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Frosty fern, <i>Selaginella kraussiana</i>, is so named for the white tips that form on the leaves in winter. The coloration and festive foliage make it a natural to use in holiday gift baskets with a poinsettia, cyclamen and/or Christmas cactus. The white tips will fade after a bit; this fern ally will continue to thrive indoors long after Christmas. </p><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGesCiiZ9f12HLztrjsPveqGKD_CoLoKgTgCfM6pwGGl_4SQyufGSNGMC8QYf30zfCbAgPovW8RQICMOSJLEv_BbCUwpdqBw7fPTpFRi7xjQ0cWfELFFy0SFjyC9txqe8g1XHOdNcWWNMdV8I-LVq1bGEah822VI3UtLCf_HuvCsBSPc9YVt7bjywQ0k/s4032/IMG_8438.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGesCiiZ9f12HLztrjsPveqGKD_CoLoKgTgCfM6pwGGl_4SQyufGSNGMC8QYf30zfCbAgPovW8RQICMOSJLEv_BbCUwpdqBw7fPTpFRi7xjQ0cWfELFFy0SFjyC9txqe8g1XHOdNcWWNMdV8I-LVq1bGEah822VI3UtLCf_HuvCsBSPc9YVt7bjywQ0k/w300-h400/IMG_8438.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White frosted tips arrive in time for the holidays<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Though not a true fern, nor a moss as it is occasionally identified, this is among the fern allies that grow similarly. Indoors, Frosty ferns like bright light, though not full sun. It may be moved outdoors, after all danger of frost has passed, in a shady spot. Move it back in before fall's first frost. <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6EMtI5ujG6PlhVRKEmS7-0huv51p3YL2Lj18vQEetNit5hPtE-m3qeiMNZ8ixE7jIAeYK_xHXXweqjfWDaF56VlZSvfpV1bcdsj852cIlsrjKWPvLapF0uCQRbYbVKJLvph1qA6BYOs5j3_ag6zChKkuAMCnNO82JrHghA9l9Ysk96E2R7WRE8qo9qE/s4032/IMG_8439.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6EMtI5ujG6PlhVRKEmS7-0huv51p3YL2Lj18vQEetNit5hPtE-m3qeiMNZ8ixE7jIAeYK_xHXXweqjfWDaF56VlZSvfpV1bcdsj852cIlsrjKWPvLapF0uCQRbYbVKJLvph1qA6BYOs5j3_ag6zChKkuAMCnNO82JrHghA9l9Ysk96E2R7WRE8qo9qE/w300-h400/IMG_8439.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several varieties of<i> Selaginella</i> are sold year 'round. Many are perfect for terrariums.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>The Frosty fern likes to be kept moist and enjoys high humidity. It will thrive in a terrarium atmosphere or on a tray of pebbles which will help to keep humidity levels at 70 %. Ideally, temperatures would range between 65 and 80 degrees F. <p></p><p><i>Selaginella kraussiana</i> is native to South Africa, east Africa and islands in the region. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77qeNUW1PneVBm5kJy6L3TIKlSpSoF6A6PYDn2hoIwcI63iXlw79BVjiBmhfvEwbBSGJtQdOZwde6ETb5tQ1hjglsVFA-KMGMpItMkS_srl8Nke8RiBcIQNR7RR2EybFg4ITi9x05PHtcb3ED7jAIHNQ5DiYKMDZZVVyNq471orBj6wF-L_k9ArSmqJw/s4032/IMG_8440.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77qeNUW1PneVBm5kJy6L3TIKlSpSoF6A6PYDn2hoIwcI63iXlw79BVjiBmhfvEwbBSGJtQdOZwde6ETb5tQ1hjglsVFA-KMGMpItMkS_srl8Nke8RiBcIQNR7RR2EybFg4ITi9x05PHtcb3ED7jAIHNQ5DiYKMDZZVVyNq471orBj6wF-L_k9ArSmqJw/w300-h400/IMG_8440.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby and light green are among the colors and forms of <i>Selaginella.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>For more information on this unique plant, follow this link to <a href="https://pza.sanbi.org/selaginella-kraussiana">Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa</a>. I was lucky enough to visit years ago and see the incredible natives in this very specialized plant zone. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><aside class="m-in-content-ad-row l-inline mm-in-content-ad-row--in-content not-size-a not-size-b not-size-d" data-ad-group="in_content-0" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 0px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); border-image: initial; border-left: none; border-right: none; border-top: 0px solid rgb(255, 255, 255); box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #333333; display: flex; float: none; font-family: open-sans, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; justify-content: center; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; min-height: 250px; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><div class="m-in-content-ad not-size-a not-size-b not-size-d" data-ad-group="in_content-0" data-zone-count="1" style="align-items: center; box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; min-height: inherit; overflow: visible;"><phoenix-ad class="m-ad not-size-a not-size-b not-size-d m-in-content-ad--slot is-loaded" config="{"adHtml":"","adReloaderDelay":0,"maxAdReloads":25,"adCloseButton":false,"classRules":[{"sizes":["728x90"],"classes":["is-728x90"]},{"sizes":["0x0"],"classes":["m-advertisement--fluid-card"]}],"overrideOutstreamScript":false,"moduleClass":"m-in-content-ad","slotId":"ad-in_content-f7743f0fa76145b385bb81b89dee7954","visClasses":["not-size-a","not-size-b","not-size-d"],"extraClasses":null,"zone":"in_content","outstream":false,"adGroup":"in_content-0","slotConfig":{"config":{"sizes":[[300,250],[728,90],"fluid",[1,2]]},"model":{"zone":"in_content","index":"0","isOutstream":false,"deferLoad":false,"authorPageview":"tm-ci0258180da00127ac","nativeCardType":"list"},"sizes":[{"width":300,"height":250},{"width":728,"height":90},{"name":"fluid"},{"width":1,"height":2}],"screenSizes":["C"],"slotModel":{"zone":"in_content","index":"0","isOutstream":false,"deferLoad":false,"authorPageview":"tm-ci0258180da00127ac","nativeCardType":"list"},"id":"ad-in_content-f7743f0fa76145b385bb81b89dee7954","adUnitPath":"/88059007,7222/www.hortmag.com/plants-we-love-2"},"showBlockthrough":true}" data-class-rules="[{"sizes":["728x90"],"classes":["is-728x90"]},{"sizes":["0x0"],"classes":["m-advertisement--fluid-card"]}]" skip-dynamic-call="" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block;"><div class="not-size-a not-size-b not-size-d m-in-content-ad is-loaded" style="align-items: center; box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; min-height: inherit; overflow: visible;"><div data-ad-size="728x250" data-google-query-id="CLKmuKnxiYMDFYiPWgUdQ0MJDw" id="ad-in_content-f7743f0fa76145b385bb81b89dee7954" style="box-sizing: border-box; overflow: visible;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div></div></phoenix-ad></div></aside><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-68620022099152074612023-12-05T13:46:00.009-05:002023-12-05T13:47:31.172-05:00Plant of the Week...Phalaenopsis Orchid<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WhTGU6Zps5GQnzaMKhyhqwoWYBKXz6qkzTyD9NgpRrOUALKBasMpIgS0ZOv8xLeO-e7ARhS84vIDaBBScSyffCsoxlsTklLGw1HFSIyZlJQ1TD7r2cg-f1gVs4ns1cFb26MNGCQVdn-zmyfBpAHenWXU6HWqpOYZ6XT82e1ea2frt25PxHiPlh7aLHo/s4032/IMG_3751.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WhTGU6Zps5GQnzaMKhyhqwoWYBKXz6qkzTyD9NgpRrOUALKBasMpIgS0ZOv8xLeO-e7ARhS84vIDaBBScSyffCsoxlsTklLGw1HFSIyZlJQ1TD7r2cg-f1gVs4ns1cFb26MNGCQVdn-zmyfBpAHenWXU6HWqpOYZ6XT82e1ea2frt25PxHiPlh7aLHo/w400-h300/IMG_3751.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchids are America's favorite flowering plant</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">America's favorite orchid, and maybe even houseplant, is the Phalaenopsis, aka the Moth Orchid, so named for it's flower shape. Available in many outlets, including garden centers like Valley View Farms, Phals are easy to grow and priced reasonably. </span><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhSKk0z-ilrS6jFxIy89bKh6bRVT2ivISNuETsjBZqaS31d9O9zo7ttSgnEs3Zy228P7e7BnzNMHbF7ndq_lk4VyUY88t6sbrgdkcjZC8fiVS9SdiatQBb1KIhL94TTt_6oNA-675RYr7YbZDbfW0YmcC8PZ7oc0T9aHn2j9fuZrFRSxO1IaiXmyLGMU/s2896/DSC_0642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2896" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhSKk0z-ilrS6jFxIy89bKh6bRVT2ivISNuETsjBZqaS31d9O9zo7ttSgnEs3Zy228P7e7BnzNMHbF7ndq_lk4VyUY88t6sbrgdkcjZC8fiVS9SdiatQBb1KIhL94TTt_6oNA-675RYr7YbZDbfW0YmcC8PZ7oc0T9aHn2j9fuZrFRSxO1IaiXmyLGMU/w400-h269/DSC_0642.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the arching stems of Moth Orchids in outdoor mixed planters</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Phalaenopsis are epiphytic, growing on tree trunks, branches and rocks. They send out fleshy, aerial roots that often grow outside of the pot at your local garden center. Do not cut the roots off as this is how the plant gets its moisture and nutrition. I've had the blooms of the Moth Orchid last for several months. The flowers stalks begin at the base of the orchid, growing from leaf joints. The tall flower spikes naturally fall forward in a beautiful, arching form. In stores, most are staked and held by floral ties or clips to keep them upright. </div><div><br /><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGVK3tcJvVC8OCNcet56U-QWWx5_tsRHohl7tv-xeEXjvQ4Tul-BrDPWEXHshtefcr1COTmaidm0JGwm3i7QdcoXwoCO-KaoVMf8bfySLMmBcM-yGpOzofoCHdEp2f3cVxKT-TCJCf42VoWV-AmFcld-k67mwXM5LxGJNUPJAjjKoqdRVC7jjvag7Ec4/s4000/DSCN0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGVK3tcJvVC8OCNcet56U-QWWx5_tsRHohl7tv-xeEXjvQ4Tul-BrDPWEXHshtefcr1COTmaidm0JGwm3i7QdcoXwoCO-KaoVMf8bfySLMmBcM-yGpOzofoCHdEp2f3cVxKT-TCJCf42VoWV-AmFcld-k67mwXM5LxGJNUPJAjjKoqdRVC7jjvag7Ec4/w400-h300/DSCN0107.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful colors, spectacular blooms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></div><div>How to care for Phalaenopsis:</div><div><br /></div><div>Moth Orchids like the same conditions as other common houseplants like African Violets. Provide an</div><div>east or shaded south-facing window. Phalaenopsis can also be grown and cultivated under grow lights. Daytime temperatures between 70-85 F and nighttime temperatures above 60 F will suit them.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE4n5UXvx7W8bTm9Qkmge1IB2EE5tvSntpFlK6imTQle-YDbfk0pvM4vWL7y_La89PfiPPYfnEE9MufMtmsSTQufGe-_xpierqM4HljFjGhL529sdp8NxlZ1XVIGc2n5LLEnpaQYwZ0PLHeKsb9CcKX8Yz4QFc6UVKn3MOlEg0nlklT0qwIF8EcxV9ONI/s3872/DSC_0430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3872" data-original-width="2592" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE4n5UXvx7W8bTm9Qkmge1IB2EE5tvSntpFlK6imTQle-YDbfk0pvM4vWL7y_La89PfiPPYfnEE9MufMtmsSTQufGe-_xpierqM4HljFjGhL529sdp8NxlZ1XVIGc2n5LLEnpaQYwZ0PLHeKsb9CcKX8Yz4QFc6UVKn3MOlEg0nlklT0qwIF8EcxV9ONI/w268-h400/DSC_0430.JPG" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, arching forms</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div> Watering Moth Orchids is slightly different than watering other houseplants as they are planted in a special bark mix to allow for good air circulation. Keep the orchid bark medium moist, always allowing for good drainage. Special orchid pots are a good investment for the orchid collector.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJ4sfoMo7bf-5ftwaWio3YWxIOLC9vjAtTU_982PUZu_mucYUbfZ8pSQgzBUtMHwjb6a_lMD4FQGounSKfrqqTHBDB9brMfD1irf3okHunaqNUpp99T5kTmZhIL8ADCEvUEmDAvwq_OA3_3uGmkD9Me2fBH_4FK3Lehd3B15D4VFmKnztAVAOdBfy_Eg/s500/OM-076A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJ4sfoMo7bf-5ftwaWio3YWxIOLC9vjAtTU_982PUZu_mucYUbfZ8pSQgzBUtMHwjb6a_lMD4FQGounSKfrqqTHBDB9brMfD1irf3okHunaqNUpp99T5kTmZhIL8ADCEvUEmDAvwq_OA3_3uGmkD9Me2fBH_4FK3Lehd3B15D4VFmKnztAVAOdBfy_Eg/s320/OM-076A.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchid pots have holes in the side to allow for better air circulation for the roots</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><div> Fertilize with a general purpose or orchid specialty food in the spring and summer. In the fall, switch to a blossom booster fertilizer, coupled with cooler nights, to induce plants to set buds and flower.</div><div> Provide humidity by placing pots on pebble trays, keeping the water level low enough to not interfere with the plant's roots. Do not use the ice method of watering. These are tropical plants that like warm, tepid water. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiBqKGZHhW-Xq7NUsb6XqMICKcdtCqUlnYdhDmIqn5T6NyoasVzEgIvuEX8rkZA32OGvErVUgSQFKE-3AgBWquwqEBocEtafzsGQYcpz09U8r23dMfjSVJpmmR0OiwqM3LxK2nu3-WP9otZ1esubV18GJ46a6olqLuMSSTMLEYsb_YVbB_p4RNWDGhs4/s550/1363224660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="550" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiBqKGZHhW-Xq7NUsb6XqMICKcdtCqUlnYdhDmIqn5T6NyoasVzEgIvuEX8rkZA32OGvErVUgSQFKE-3AgBWquwqEBocEtafzsGQYcpz09U8r23dMfjSVJpmmR0OiwqM3LxK2nu3-WP9otZ1esubV18GJ46a6olqLuMSSTMLEYsb_YVbB_p4RNWDGhs4/s320/1363224660.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most fertilizer companies have a specialty orchid food</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div>After their bloom period, leave the flower stalk as Phals may form new flowering branches along old stems. If the stem browns, cut it back. Repot every year or two. The orchid potting mix tends to break down. Repot in late spring using the aforementioned potting mix. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2ttwJKdrP-LQu8q8gIWEnQp5VjGLVOOq_ZbiCka59VBEE-EExZhU15eNG-IHVR2sHxBefd2HE6BidvoYGyZjf0vJVewznU5TT_ErjfBp_cZplkq4S3ddI1WXYDZWMgpEjJC1uaA4Y7o4GtqY4XXhZcpSc-PyyeG0NgnXpHkgyp4Q9fpSC9lH4VpPgaQ/s259/bg-phalaenopsis-mix-large-bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="259" data-original-width="181" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2ttwJKdrP-LQu8q8gIWEnQp5VjGLVOOq_ZbiCka59VBEE-EExZhU15eNG-IHVR2sHxBefd2HE6BidvoYGyZjf0vJVewznU5TT_ErjfBp_cZplkq4S3ddI1WXYDZWMgpEjJC1uaA4Y7o4GtqY4XXhZcpSc-PyyeG0NgnXpHkgyp4Q9fpSC9lH4VpPgaQ/w224-h320/bg-phalaenopsis-mix-large-bag.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look for potting mixes particularly for orchids</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Valley View Farms offers an orchid repotting class every winter. Eric R will demonstrate and talk about Phalaenopsis and other orchids. Stay tuned for our 2024 Seminar Schedule to be released soon. In the meantime, get on board the orchid train and enjoy these incredible plants in your home and office. </div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpQkLsAy8RDADIalI5Y3jBr8BngdB3l4WaA8iSNMTHSfgcGOyDRrsBTlcXjLCO8WuHyCFqauFNXZBLQoegWDcg0gsm2HERf2YomLkmNuTHX1x2M39PQ2ecfQkpb7OP1xzDda9XBBEGhHX6ykiNL6lSM99UbEHc8Ojqg6YvZOfN-XlhDPaE3P3Ol-Wwp4/s2592/IMG_0122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1936" data-original-width="2592" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpQkLsAy8RDADIalI5Y3jBr8BngdB3l4WaA8iSNMTHSfgcGOyDRrsBTlcXjLCO8WuHyCFqauFNXZBLQoegWDcg0gsm2HERf2YomLkmNuTHX1x2M39PQ2ecfQkpb7OP1xzDda9XBBEGhHX6ykiNL6lSM99UbEHc8Ojqg6YvZOfN-XlhDPaE3P3Ol-Wwp4/w400-h299/IMG_0122.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood Gardens </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><h2 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; clear: both; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 2.125rem; font-style: italic; letter-spacing: 0.03786em; line-height: 1.28571; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></h2><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 1.125rem; line-height: 1.75rem; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 1.125rem; list-style: none; margin: 1.25rem 0px 1.875rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="box-sizing: inherit; line-height: 1.75rem; margin: 0px; padding-left: 2.25rem; position: relative;"><p style="box-sizing: inherit; font-size: 1.125rem; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.75rem; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 1.125rem; line-height: 1.75rem; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p></p></div></div></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-46282157985707203942023-11-26T11:00:00.006-05:002023-11-26T11:00:49.466-05:00Plant of the Week...Poinsettia<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDsHXXUNIjK4-bobOvgXBkq0mHVSkDZ286igwPDazeJyVhTwStFPUEuOCjeFV093b6-qvryuBKQF8USQdXMG6t4B1Oj7wDqsH56xr0uh1HNNYtaXph97NwjRNkXypEjep1qGNsFgCyb1E8DmrlkAAi1kjTiTq6VbkK1nA7dQYy7lLG4pL9N_X__byJfw/s2592/DSC04280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDsHXXUNIjK4-bobOvgXBkq0mHVSkDZ286igwPDazeJyVhTwStFPUEuOCjeFV093b6-qvryuBKQF8USQdXMG6t4B1Oj7wDqsH56xr0uh1HNNYtaXph97NwjRNkXypEjep1qGNsFgCyb1E8DmrlkAAi1kjTiTq6VbkK1nA7dQYy7lLG4pL9N_X__byJfw/w400-h300/DSC04280.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> One of the most traditional and delightful decorations at Christmas is the poinsettia. While the classic color choice is a vibrant red, these days there is a wide array of other colors, including pink, white, marbled, speckled, and lime. The colorful parts of the plant, the bracts, are actually modified leaves. The flower (cyathia) is small, green or yellow, and situated in the middle of the bracts. Native to Central America, the plant was called cuetlaxochitl by the Aztecs, who used the plant for dying textiles, cosmetics and medicinal purposes.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqGSOUh0Ulmpc-b08iMkJjq-TELLdxyKJLIW8VR71LOYGNuzCYyPTzCGez4uytxPVQvZCXJoL8OX7zxJBU9DnmaakCr3PxvGfTcEXnncTxaKFtzFaEEhifWtf7UNRUUGhaatcbOThEWJIYvqW7qs0YsC612dWt72txlwEvCk493X-iAdFr6E45tjkRyE/s390/joel-roberts-poinsett-335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="335" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqGSOUh0Ulmpc-b08iMkJjq-TELLdxyKJLIW8VR71LOYGNuzCYyPTzCGez4uytxPVQvZCXJoL8OX7zxJBU9DnmaakCr3PxvGfTcEXnncTxaKFtzFaEEhifWtf7UNRUUGhaatcbOThEWJIYvqW7qs0YsC612dWt72txlwEvCk493X-iAdFr6E45tjkRyE/w172-h200/joel-roberts-poinsett-335.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joel Poinsett</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>The poinsettia was “discovered” by Joel Roberts Poinsett, a hobbyist botanist, who was appointed by John Quincy Adams as the first U. S. Ambassador to Mexico in 1825 and fell in love with this unique plant.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8jnEKNWUwpvk03n9_JLDuKEkbSru1okjiUfQWabEKPwQgRcOrTosHztOEVhZo4CIey8c31eTBjODxM1-Lr8wgoroDzbWk9NpR8KiqafIpgpX5DjtJPoQ0VulwQPUb5wks3wV1Mtv5uKGPkDvDBuybvlNprxtdFJWyMDdN9__1aw0UpMgIUhsXb2iKJQ/s2896/DSC_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2896" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8jnEKNWUwpvk03n9_JLDuKEkbSru1okjiUfQWabEKPwQgRcOrTosHztOEVhZo4CIey8c31eTBjODxM1-Lr8wgoroDzbWk9NpR8KiqafIpgpX5DjtJPoQ0VulwQPUb5wks3wV1Mtv5uKGPkDvDBuybvlNprxtdFJWyMDdN9__1aw0UpMgIUhsXb2iKJQ/w400-h269/DSC_0025.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We step it up for our poinsettia displays</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b style="background-color: white;">CARE OF POINSETTIAS:</b></p><p>Place plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. If direct sun can’t be avoided, diffuse the light with a shade or sheer curtain.</p><p>Provide room temperatures between 68–70°F. Generally speaking, if you are comfortable, so is your poinsettia. Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBloCh_jhxdBxIUHcYXypnnfArHai_2Q5XsW9iweJGog10KNTBdkUeKKwvWNlciaMLIHbw_EqvEubZNtphl080Mmxbx79HrqcvwnWbHAjuv3RMvvpEPEL6HBGnCqt76vWcvW8IdghKsXIjbhs-gDm8W2vpVAapzc4WE5McHO-Zgb4slCF6ev1kxerQ1eM/s4032/IMG_8312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBloCh_jhxdBxIUHcYXypnnfArHai_2Q5XsW9iweJGog10KNTBdkUeKKwvWNlciaMLIHbw_EqvEubZNtphl080Mmxbx79HrqcvwnWbHAjuv3RMvvpEPEL6HBGnCqt76vWcvW8IdghKsXIjbhs-gDm8W2vpVAapzc4WE5McHO-Zgb4slCF6ev1kxerQ1eM/w400-h300/IMG_8312.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abby and Chris man our sleeving station</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Allow us to “sleeve” your plant to protect it from the cold and other damage while in transport.</p><p>Fertilize your plant AFTER it blooms with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.</p><p>Keep plants away from cold drafts or excessive heat (avoid open windows, fireplaces, appliances, ventilation ducts, etc.).<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1biQYWYRSxWZRNuAyDTosFEj2F-XARD6bXGeYR8LbP_XhEh6XuP9C_vT_K0gFvBcWY_PzzFn2kzjgSHD6ijSynr8SwvCe9kElx9cuMJ9-eiwygRqqZqN8_maKMPX-eypm7qMB5PKnLRfkpDajZh36qHEPSBwPwK412_TjDmRYzHITVKoOI_z0ztiDEY/s4032/IMG_8307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1biQYWYRSxWZRNuAyDTosFEj2F-XARD6bXGeYR8LbP_XhEh6XuP9C_vT_K0gFvBcWY_PzzFn2kzjgSHD6ijSynr8SwvCe9kElx9cuMJ9-eiwygRqqZqN8_maKMPX-eypm7qMB5PKnLRfkpDajZh36qHEPSBwPwK412_TjDmRYzHITVKoOI_z0ztiDEY/w400-h300/IMG_8307.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted purple for the Ravens!</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>Don’t expose plants to temperatures below 50°F. Poinsettias are sensitive to cold, so don’t put them outside during the winter months!</p><p>And, like most plants, do not overwater or allow your plant to sit in standing water. Always remove the potted plant from the decorative foil or pot cover to water and then drain. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZ5B2VfG4Rb4AxQ9aSXt4t0j3RjutRcsjpUxcUtv3dwdvkl6-cBG9MCE78ZvnDVS4eqnSqgwMEDQ73pbFoTsqDmYjMR-So7GguXjbI9jsXc9QxYl7XcP9FT1IVyOKi9NSiRcVJ6oKkGfW-suk2dhMZQv7HNLSRQmcbqTZUyhTRQP2tf3UY6uFhxdyY80/s4032/IMG_3443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZ5B2VfG4Rb4AxQ9aSXt4t0j3RjutRcsjpUxcUtv3dwdvkl6-cBG9MCE78ZvnDVS4eqnSqgwMEDQ73pbFoTsqDmYjMR-So7GguXjbI9jsXc9QxYl7XcP9FT1IVyOKi9NSiRcVJ6oKkGfW-suk2dhMZQv7HNLSRQmcbqTZUyhTRQP2tf3UY6uFhxdyY80/w300-h400/IMG_3443.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood displays inspire</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Re-Blooming your Poinsettia</b></p><p>With proper care, dedication and a certain amount of luck, you too can re-bloom your poinsettia! As the beauty of the plant begins to “fade” by late March or early April, cut it back to about 8” in height. Continue a regular watering program, and fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer. By the end of May, you should see vigorous new growth. After all chance of frost has passed and night temperatures average 55°F or above, place your plants outdoors in indirect sunlight. Continue regular watering and fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks. Pruning may be required in late June or early July to keep plants bushy and compact. Do not prune after September 1.</p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoXSya8ZMKtCUICfbhN0TQCFO6U4Mg4YmqMyAc3QhRBWQFKa5Ie2wFvU7u6e3kthi2bwxiCqSm0jgwKmc87e_gPxihVZu3y-nzRcdLzJjbpTgueD6-UH7sIvgMYxkP1ETwQUxF_MWw08-PnZeLWfd7YQ7897p7Fwn5jmwt7pEv0ZKZbv1KSGmis8XTbI/s3648/DSC00509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoXSya8ZMKtCUICfbhN0TQCFO6U4Mg4YmqMyAc3QhRBWQFKa5Ie2wFvU7u6e3kthi2bwxiCqSm0jgwKmc87e_gPxihVZu3y-nzRcdLzJjbpTgueD6-UH7sIvgMYxkP1ETwQUxF_MWw08-PnZeLWfd7YQ7897p7Fwn5jmwt7pEv0ZKZbv1KSGmis8XTbI/w400-h300/DSC00509.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breeders are constantly improving the colors and positive traits of the poinsettia</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>In early June, you may transplant your poinsettia into a larger pot. Select a pot no more than 2” larger than the original pot. A soil mix with a considerable amount of organic matter, such as peat moss or leaf mold, is highly recommended.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0EKiTMjh5jK9_X0Bjqbgt50FTTmKY-Rmrwx0ICs-KB47BBidpnwXhDwekcmgilyGcAaJ72vU5y2Sz1Ikj47tdN7wwNSOBzP46cgGjn8Vq78bgXKsxc9xJ2AM2cKkRMfYYlfjZ0R7v181XaN8k0YqdVf6NdaBIZR_tG4ImNtGcte0w476N4EuA-Qqi5o/s4032/IMG_8342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0EKiTMjh5jK9_X0Bjqbgt50FTTmKY-Rmrwx0ICs-KB47BBidpnwXhDwekcmgilyGcAaJ72vU5y2Sz1Ikj47tdN7wwNSOBzP46cgGjn8Vq78bgXKsxc9xJ2AM2cKkRMfYYlfjZ0R7v181XaN8k0YqdVf6NdaBIZR_tG4ImNtGcte0w476N4EuA-Qqi5o/w400-h300/IMG_8342.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leah and our greenhouse team keep displays beautiful</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Starting October 1, the plants must be kept in complete darkness for 14 continuous hours each night. Accomplish this by moving the plants to a totally dark room, or by covering them overnight with a large box. During October, November and early December, poinsettias require 6-8 hours of bright sunlight daily, with night temperatures between 60–70F. Temperatures outside of this range could delay flowering. Continue the normal watering and fertilizer program. Carefully following this regime for 8 to 10 weeks should result in a colorful display of blooms for the holiday season!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuVWoNwGLmk5yu-gCn-dlJ0PF2Nbhqvqz0BKMch8fyhknsVlprAhTB0ZvM4fjqxnjQcXAKWOxpHhqhrz255uXI3jG0K8MV7tKMyOy2RBxWMRWvbRKvhViK2fF7aBfHzEaD0T8JOSVB35NN739pegKKzKX_UgtHgAW2_nrP79vRqXSjVe7-9EZpfJXdpo/s2592/IMG_3858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1936" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuVWoNwGLmk5yu-gCn-dlJ0PF2Nbhqvqz0BKMch8fyhknsVlprAhTB0ZvM4fjqxnjQcXAKWOxpHhqhrz255uXI3jG0K8MV7tKMyOy2RBxWMRWvbRKvhViK2fF7aBfHzEaD0T8JOSVB35NN739pegKKzKX_UgtHgAW2_nrP79vRqXSjVe7-9EZpfJXdpo/w299-h400/IMG_3858.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We grow most of the poinsettias in our own farm greenhouses</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>The Legend of the Poinsettia</b></p><p>Pepita was a poor Mexican girl who had no gift to present the Christ Child on Christmas Eve. As Pepita walked sadly to the chapel with her cousin Pedro, her heart felt no joy. “I am sure, Pepita, that even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be acceptable,” said Pedro consolingly. Not knowing what else to do, Pepita knelt by the roadside and gathered a handful of weeds, fashioning them into a small bouquet. Looking at the scraggly bunch of weeds, she felt embarrassed by the humbleness of her offering. She fought back a tear as she entered the small village chapel.</p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX110ktRz2NjKI2d_SuFEnDsstc5S-9A00yd-sUd-WRdkuQX-5rYVmUY5tuxTSylPtI26o8XL6GOiCj0LmcxgrlNPUo4OARn204yXKTUQMqNNYeupRMg1LNPKf0tQQ39qL1a8YU3E0mw02OXFL6B5U0C3RnG4SqSaqC-jlsRQWAc3R5hpdvqr4-RUbxJ8/s4032/IMG_8305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX110ktRz2NjKI2d_SuFEnDsstc5S-9A00yd-sUd-WRdkuQX-5rYVmUY5tuxTSylPtI26o8XL6GOiCj0LmcxgrlNPUo4OARn204yXKTUQMqNNYeupRMg1LNPKf0tQQ39qL1a8YU3E0mw02OXFL6B5U0C3RnG4SqSaqC-jlsRQWAc3R5hpdvqr4-RUbxJ8/w400-h300/IMG_8305.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after the morning watering</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>She laid the bouquet at the foot of the nativity scene. Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into blooms of brilliant red, and all who saw them were certain that they had witnessed a Christmas miracle right before their eyes. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night, for they bloomed each year during the Christmas season.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHeypRG0sxMFwSouV06R9aKrvlPmWYWVoIdKzbhbQnEjGcQsaS5VT6v4FlJP31RBAcFKBxhm2nNDba8zX2RSsxiOIsimHvlaJfeLFXUxHCt9aKoseLcLR9XJ7JTPq3UX8hzXAP6oay0xS68EfouliBs6gNvdfaHsGEIevFTyfvtakhBu7r-hFyqzf5xWA/s4032/IMG_1241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHeypRG0sxMFwSouV06R9aKrvlPmWYWVoIdKzbhbQnEjGcQsaS5VT6v4FlJP31RBAcFKBxhm2nNDba8zX2RSsxiOIsimHvlaJfeLFXUxHCt9aKoseLcLR9XJ7JTPq3UX8hzXAP6oay0xS68EfouliBs6gNvdfaHsGEIevFTyfvtakhBu7r-hFyqzf5xWA/w400-h300/IMG_1241.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poinsettias are safe for pets, according to the veterinary schools at Penn State, Cornell, and Ohio State. The sap in the stems may be slightly irritating. </td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Toxic or Safe?</b></p><p>According to a recent national poll, half of Americans mistakenly believe that poinsettias are toxic. In fact, no other consumer plant has been as widely tested as the poinsettia. Researchers at Ohio State University (OSU) have measured the effects of ingesting unusually high doses of all parts of the plant (including the leaves, stems and sap) and found the plant to be non-toxic. According to POISINDEX®, the information resource used by the majority of U.S. poison control centers, a 50-pound child would have to eat 500 to 600 leaves to even get a bellyache!! The sap, however, can be irritating to the skin. As far as pets, the ASPCA says Poinsettia sap can be “Irritating to the mouth and stomach, sometimes causing vomiting, but generally over-rated in toxicity”. (aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/poinsettia)</p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT02ew4zP-c8ih2cy6U79M4RRJOUwBgPv-DKNQQad2vJA1GqRcTETg7AaNsvc0mLKd2JuSUNVAIwTsoiqv_r4btvzoASuhg805idBV5LrqAvlonsvbEP0t3t7i4pMXyoffWqnEyx23RRnJKPeTzgfH9RDAVITTyv7mb5qk4WTMhp9eGMxw5Q47yEWtNXU/s3008/DSC_0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT02ew4zP-c8ih2cy6U79M4RRJOUwBgPv-DKNQQad2vJA1GqRcTETg7AaNsvc0mLKd2JuSUNVAIwTsoiqv_r4btvzoASuhg805idBV5LrqAvlonsvbEP0t3t7i4pMXyoffWqnEyx23RRnJKPeTzgfH9RDAVITTyv7mb5qk4WTMhp9eGMxw5Q47yEWtNXU/w400-h266/DSC_0583.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John has been growing our poinsettias for about 30 years</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>•</p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-8410753478185035832023-11-19T09:13:00.002-05:002023-11-19T09:19:35.419-05:00Plant of the Week ...Paperwhites, Narcissus tazetta 'Ziva'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArbpMI29RzEf-xK5zqS_0kYnh3AADUzCe_rDlYk58ayBf9236MBOhHAWWZaKyOtthj10CI1Ve5mL7Zgv-0L99qzdTUhzH0cEaTCyNkFKdTfCHXR4mC5SASHhh2NzMiumz2PLXxBAXk5yuFOeJQjMd5BX6nbVy1P7kGkyldGpE6qNnlfMm6KZriZUdTaU/s640/41002_a6dad.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="429" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArbpMI29RzEf-xK5zqS_0kYnh3AADUzCe_rDlYk58ayBf9236MBOhHAWWZaKyOtthj10CI1Ve5mL7Zgv-0L99qzdTUhzH0cEaTCyNkFKdTfCHXR4mC5SASHhh2NzMiumz2PLXxBAXk5yuFOeJQjMd5BX6nbVy1P7kGkyldGpE6qNnlfMm6KZriZUdTaU/w269-h400/41002_a6dad.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><br /> Why do we love Paperwhites so? Is it the bright, white color? The tall, easy, fast growing bulb? The incredible fragrance? For what ever the reason, Paperwhites are a staple in our indoor decorating. <p></p><p>Paperwhites started from bulbs now will yield beautiful blooms for the holidays. Great for a kid's project, paperwhites make a beautiful gift grown in a nice ceramic container or a simple glass bowl or jar. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMq4zmVI7c7Q8clb6phAV9gXt6Q1weJcfiRgnn5qgX_yfP_92eSy0fsKejTKOpj-X3BClnZ393b6Nx0xmK67zfvNS2jwLexUdsn0lPegyiINFT-1_FSEbT-GnRmQiwst4H28MTLyK5UACS6xFl4yCxy3kr-kLWLqBV1i55-LyqMtTAzb1Nf-MSUZgIBA/s520/40890_308bf.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="346" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMq4zmVI7c7Q8clb6phAV9gXt6Q1weJcfiRgnn5qgX_yfP_92eSy0fsKejTKOpj-X3BClnZ393b6Nx0xmK67zfvNS2jwLexUdsn0lPegyiINFT-1_FSEbT-GnRmQiwst4H28MTLyK5UACS6xFl4yCxy3kr-kLWLqBV1i55-LyqMtTAzb1Nf-MSUZgIBA/w266-h400/40890_308bf.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>Expect paperwhites to get 12-24" tall. They may need staking or could use the sides of a glass jar or vase to keep the stems from falling. The most popular Paperwhite is 'Ziva'. Prized for its pure white color and incredible fragrance, 'Ziva' is also the most readily available. Look for large, firm bulbs to plant. Most will take 4-8 weeks to bloom. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PUJ8uwpCMkk3Ylw6qWPR3gdd8-qZvIOohYxaj_bihDF6BOUrhFTcEyWiCDErlPUw1TK9ueMWf4NdPzwTlxzUHDb52ODTCUmFyJ8QFP4CVfqTbdRlJ22Xl4LOJyf63Hlv3HQwnzjqJ8Aq6pX97Gb36X4NjvaczdU-fexqzgXppF1ffDIsTvz2TBXRRIc/s520/23330_9a810.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="349" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PUJ8uwpCMkk3Ylw6qWPR3gdd8-qZvIOohYxaj_bihDF6BOUrhFTcEyWiCDErlPUw1TK9ueMWf4NdPzwTlxzUHDb52ODTCUmFyJ8QFP4CVfqTbdRlJ22Xl4LOJyf63Hlv3HQwnzjqJ8Aq6pX97Gb36X4NjvaczdU-fexqzgXppF1ffDIsTvz2TBXRRIc/w269-h400/23330_9a810.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><p></p><p>Growing in Pebbles</p><p>Start with small gravel the color of your choice. White marble chips or natural pebble colors work well. Add gravel to a shallow dish, glass jar or other vessel. Place bulbs then add a touch more gravel, keeping about a third of the bulb above the gravel. Add water so it is a little below the bulbs base. We want to make the roots reach for the water. As buds appear, move the pot to a cooler spot and rotate it to keep the flowers from reaching for the light. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RdZTX9AZ_qbngDY2rxbcIX-I1eo2_pDEDTi3nAR-jacYCbggd3jLUsZlbqtROC1j7jVuOvC5SxU8Zl29fpjClRYUZTv1titfnqtU400Np1JlIK1M8cOTjxkIkXGXTv2gknCsLeoUs3Sj5rS2hyphenhyphenCrilEsN6ARcd04RBXw6Zbn6ZmUALVl9Ei1To_g1wQ/s160/207628_a0eaf.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="107" data-original-width="160" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RdZTX9AZ_qbngDY2rxbcIX-I1eo2_pDEDTi3nAR-jacYCbggd3jLUsZlbqtROC1j7jVuOvC5SxU8Zl29fpjClRYUZTv1titfnqtU400Np1JlIK1M8cOTjxkIkXGXTv2gknCsLeoUs3Sj5rS2hyphenhyphenCrilEsN6ARcd04RBXw6Zbn6ZmUALVl9Ei1To_g1wQ/w400-h268/207628_a0eaf.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Sometimes the paperwhites can get floppy. A few ways to keep the plant more compact include: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Keeping the plant at about 60 degrees while providing plenty of light.</li><li>Stake the plants or tie a ribbon around the center to keep them together. </li><li>As the bulbs first sprout, begin to water with an alcohol solution. Add 1 part 40 proof alcohol (I use vodka) to 7 parts water for more compact stems. </li></ul><div>Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of growing paperwhites all winter. Start bulbs every 2-4 weeks for continuous flowering. </div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2K2XgTQbNlMIFFvwmUd_3UQii6F2uyuq2Lp8Py3-C9O8RPi3xX-3G23ChPG57x_3xLl6BHLy3eLNiJ656LYd079ZLlj1E-5uFjrjouTuokRQ2Tv0GUD3zwJpj6grRcWGyYujPQOnfZtXNkDb5qf6q3TLfllF01m_gnExu8nHV2VsVrI1KcJyABN1Ljc/s520/34448_5770a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="346" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2K2XgTQbNlMIFFvwmUd_3UQii6F2uyuq2Lp8Py3-C9O8RPi3xX-3G23ChPG57x_3xLl6BHLy3eLNiJ656LYd079ZLlj1E-5uFjrjouTuokRQ2Tv0GUD3zwJpj6grRcWGyYujPQOnfZtXNkDb5qf6q3TLfllF01m_gnExu8nHV2VsVrI1KcJyABN1Ljc/w266-h400/34448_5770a.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p>All photos used in this blog are courtesy of iBulb, a part of Royal Anthos</p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-27672821003805146832023-11-07T09:21:00.000-05:002023-11-07T09:22:47.840-05:00Plant of the Week: Amaryllis<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DGls7TD5WvGyacJLAM3vkIIiGAgkyMJaSfCROtDekVvWKUWfNkEn8G5650leefZ0GFSQTNilH4HQ8rIJEHrJC7RoyLZI8yzSZ-6tesbRGxz6j3ag1ENmBhCdJ05MvMAlUMksWJEoLOk9mziXlKo_rlWm2431l_rCfnpkZJNskvVaJ3NvUcq9yIQ45NE/s640/medres249492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DGls7TD5WvGyacJLAM3vkIIiGAgkyMJaSfCROtDekVvWKUWfNkEn8G5650leefZ0GFSQTNilH4HQ8rIJEHrJC7RoyLZI8yzSZ-6tesbRGxz6j3ag1ENmBhCdJ05MvMAlUMksWJEoLOk9mziXlKo_rlWm2431l_rCfnpkZJNskvVaJ3NvUcq9yIQ45NE/w268-h400/medres249492.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of iBulb</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Amaryllis, <i>Hippeastrum,</i> have incredibly<i> </i>large, beautiful, dramatic blooms atop long, slender, hollow stems. The gorgeous blooms are great to use in cut-flower arrangements when creating a holiday centerpiece, though the plant itself is decoration enough. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1wGdqX0QW_AJnl7Z3-K-IT1cfbzdrThKOh5ANlwmh4dMSmHWBaTk6hIbWsQ21mR5XgzYSdfqVoRA_4zk4-NkC7Re9ciRnWy9JUg0TtAAXCP9lSqrBI7iOrerHLHQOD5Jbi23jDU-zF_GOoWKa6gViHo7rXTJhyphenhyphenKHYVAHpnStWk_WHtvw5gcsGjs75Dc/s640/medres247766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1wGdqX0QW_AJnl7Z3-K-IT1cfbzdrThKOh5ANlwmh4dMSmHWBaTk6hIbWsQ21mR5XgzYSdfqVoRA_4zk4-NkC7Re9ciRnWy9JUg0TtAAXCP9lSqrBI7iOrerHLHQOD5Jbi23jDU-zF_GOoWKa6gViHo7rXTJhyphenhyphenKHYVAHpnStWk_WHtvw5gcsGjs75Dc/w268-h400/medres247766.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of iBulb</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p> For stunning winter color in your home throughout the holiday season, plant amaryllis bulbs from October until the end of April. Given proper treatment, they will continue to bloom for several years. Of all the flowering bulbs, the amaryllis is one of the easiest to bring to bloom</p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSps4CndXy2eCDrfBezNplAtTyRAg6ZGCZD_FagTRj0FCe4MFmk4tpXWIAMyPiOEx-y2Kflsu9QWjggYJtRRL6kq__TNVudQbI_OtMX-oBB205o1E3_3IvllUXBZOKZNR7bEfWAmkcyoWyFggGadDOQap2-72tJj1C0gfsckwxmfPcScOhjaD6gZ8eLY/s2592/DSC04287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSps4CndXy2eCDrfBezNplAtTyRAg6ZGCZD_FagTRj0FCe4MFmk4tpXWIAMyPiOEx-y2Kflsu9QWjggYJtRRL6kq__TNVudQbI_OtMX-oBB205o1E3_3IvllUXBZOKZNR7bEfWAmkcyoWyFggGadDOQap2-72tJj1C0gfsckwxmfPcScOhjaD6gZ8eLY/w400-h300/DSC04287.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood Gardens Conservatory</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>QUICK FACTS:</p><p>Originated in South America’s tropical regions</p><p>Amaryllis means “sparkling” and refers to the attractive bloom</p><p>Flowering period: Late December until the end of June, depending on planting time</p><p>Flowering time: 6-8 weeks</p><p>Bulb size: Large to extra large (In general, the larger the bulb, the more flowers produced.)</p><p>Plant size: 18-24” tall, with blooms 3-6” wide; dwarf varieties available</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiofd9_yNtZRCCOfYs_bbw3BZ0I9RbTqvmnC7Y4bEohI6w3JIpm6xlk97IGnogyCq5pfmwoGZdIRvDqRPvL4FUKaL3RyWuLlwSNS1549tPCQcxzFiJQy9sIRKKinMW4Jb4UjWpRUEre3aMJx5ZxlODEoFwvBoeosQyDjUDEf2X4pQOaRNPrlW8YePwziLk/s1860/IMG_4442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1845" data-original-width="1860" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiofd9_yNtZRCCOfYs_bbw3BZ0I9RbTqvmnC7Y4bEohI6w3JIpm6xlk97IGnogyCq5pfmwoGZdIRvDqRPvL4FUKaL3RyWuLlwSNS1549tPCQcxzFiJQy9sIRKKinMW4Jb4UjWpRUEre3aMJx5ZxlODEoFwvBoeosQyDjUDEf2X4pQOaRNPrlW8YePwziLk/w400-h396/IMG_4442.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blooming on my kitchen counter this bulb had 17 blooms on one season. Its worth buying the bigger bulb!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>PLANTING DIRECTIONS</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsNjGOT3uClpivd4h-dWg3MAYbehdvaCG0hnQhWFC8-ByGmXM9YpoHWKKoAseW6FpbSqagyLMorGkxYHJOYvAHHTZ6djTWqULrFWiy-z7dqwBFv1th-EGhIcAUQ2agHFlJBdhQBTaNzPxZWyw8tSvAvw7TDXraYPaUqpn1OWYa0FJS47PaIenTIK3kzk/s383/18464_b31f7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="312" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsNjGOT3uClpivd4h-dWg3MAYbehdvaCG0hnQhWFC8-ByGmXM9YpoHWKKoAseW6FpbSqagyLMorGkxYHJOYvAHHTZ6djTWqULrFWiy-z7dqwBFv1th-EGhIcAUQ2agHFlJBdhQBTaNzPxZWyw8tSvAvw7TDXraYPaUqpn1OWYa0FJS47PaIenTIK3kzk/w163-h200/18464_b31f7.jpg" width="163" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amaryllis bulb <br />Courtesy iBulb</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Plant bulbs in a good-quality, well-drained potting soil. The pot should have good drainage and be about 3–4” wider than the bulb. The potting mixture should be about 1” below the rim of the pot (for ease of watering), and about 1/3 of the bulb should show above the soil level. Firm the soil and water well.</p><p>Position the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light for proper stem development, ideally 68 to 70° F. Water sparingly until the stem appears. As the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. The stem will grow rapidly at this point and flowers will open after the stem reaches its full height. Fertilize with a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer once a month while the plant is in active growth. Turning the pot every few days will keep the foliage growth balanced. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJItlyD_7fCWpo7j0K-ubjRkXyPgnSm2VYSqdmqqMOEy_oJhlUk4K-VftyeMr1KgF9pHvRLUBcMMrHZImd32ONp2MVXgyCk_9rLBNzoM0hHpT3UE9I-0KiVNd9scOYBuIhCc-aUH-0Me7QeZb6pz-HYjLro0guT5GVwC1dBggPpub8c0QXiBhwOdjlCs/s3024/IMG_5237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1586" data-original-width="3024" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJItlyD_7fCWpo7j0K-ubjRkXyPgnSm2VYSqdmqqMOEy_oJhlUk4K-VftyeMr1KgF9pHvRLUBcMMrHZImd32ONp2MVXgyCk_9rLBNzoM0hHpT3UE9I-0KiVNd9scOYBuIhCc-aUH-0Me7QeZb6pz-HYjLro0guT5GVwC1dBggPpub8c0QXiBhwOdjlCs/w400-h210/IMG_5237.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood Gardens with Kalanchoe </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Generally, bulbs will flower in about 6-8 weeks. To achieve continuous bloom, plant bulbs in 2-week intervals. Once the flower buds are ready to open, the pot can be moved to a cooler location, with less direct light. This will both prolong flowering and bring out the brilliant colors of the amaryllis. Remove the flowers as they fade, thus preventing seed formation, which diverts food from the bulb itself.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">AFTERCARE</span></div><p></p><p>After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, cut the spent flowers and the stem at the top of the bulb. Allow the leaves to continue to grow as food manufactured will enlarge and feed the bulb. Continue to water and fertilize for approximately 5–6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop. As the leaves start to yellow around early fall, stop watering and let the leaves fade away naturally.</p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtRp5iz2tVBvg6GRBNbN3fiTXT1198XB1ezO19fSntjkAZeczH1fZGoG8b3Ifnf2HxGph6jXe6BDGJ9sq5G2nH3GxTth4M3x_smL9f_uXDiPSmUH9Q1bIiJ590JCTtUi40Oo-o-1AOSggifqRejNBs5yxTGdGIz83DtFpbCNROWw8eBxFJlxW1EZF_hI/s640/247788_65cce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtRp5iz2tVBvg6GRBNbN3fiTXT1198XB1ezO19fSntjkAZeczH1fZGoG8b3Ifnf2HxGph6jXe6BDGJ9sq5G2nH3GxTth4M3x_smL9f_uXDiPSmUH9Q1bIiJ590JCTtUi40Oo-o-1AOSggifqRejNBs5yxTGdGIz83DtFpbCNROWw8eBxFJlxW1EZF_hI/w400-h268/247788_65cce.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of iBulb</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>Place the amaryllis in a cool (40-50° F), dry, dark place for a minimum of 6 weeks. No watering or feeding is necessary during this dormant period. Caution: Do not store amaryllis bulbs in a refrigerator that contains apples and other fruit that will sterilize the bulbs.</p><p>After 6 weeks, remove bulbs and plant them approximately 8 weeks before you would like them to bloom. Follow the planting directions above for next steps.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03sllrke8E3E3-Y8YB8-m8XkjtHrnk0jI6mynURMBDYAoNEtJg9n8NrUHREHJWHP44q0fkNN-8sENjwjHlIi8IUQ5UijPhjjg3WEq-w1ygpA8hZonRyIPN_DFDPq0sn-LoQIHVLtaXmMDyNc6n3GkstiiHUDPDovBtPTtMky23b4Qi7fdqGcUCuDiBEk/s1600/IMG_4451.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="1600" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03sllrke8E3E3-Y8YB8-m8XkjtHrnk0jI6mynURMBDYAoNEtJg9n8NrUHREHJWHP44q0fkNN-8sENjwjHlIi8IUQ5UijPhjjg3WEq-w1ygpA8hZonRyIPN_DFDPq0sn-LoQIHVLtaXmMDyNc6n3GkstiiHUDPDovBtPTtMky23b4Qi7fdqGcUCuDiBEk/w400-h311/IMG_4451.JPEG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hope we all encourage our kids to have the kind of enthusiasm that my friend's son had when he saw this awesome plant</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-31426383706112570152023-11-06T13:27:00.003-05:002023-11-06T13:56:27.168-05:00Plant of the Week: Christmas Cactus<p> Schlumbergera including Thanksgiving, Christmas and Holiday cacti, are among my favorite plants. Though I'll share care tips and blooming techniques for this plant, know that a Holiday Cactus blooms at will and handles benign neglect. </p><p>Holiday cacti are available from early November through the winter holidays in most garden centers. The color range is phenomenal, including white with a blush of pink, fuchsia, red, peach, and gold. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5FhHSTL5FZ_-F45MBo5PfdQM0GG1YgG00NyEfdSj6mLC-ZP3F0RJHhGd4soWfNLwVJnnwFaX6Q_9ors-kABCwCwuEJr6Tlwd7Rk5FfzPNWIDURLMOtstNYTz2UpVODj9j1EeXlnkFBfgXhbBo8zNM2-20jG5zKfAl46knjnwZWflLNeND-f4rySVlos/s4032/IMG_8247.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5FhHSTL5FZ_-F45MBo5PfdQM0GG1YgG00NyEfdSj6mLC-ZP3F0RJHhGd4soWfNLwVJnnwFaX6Q_9ors-kABCwCwuEJr6Tlwd7Rk5FfzPNWIDURLMOtstNYTz2UpVODj9j1EeXlnkFBfgXhbBo8zNM2-20jG5zKfAl46knjnwZWflLNeND-f4rySVlos/w400-h300/IMG_8247.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light pink is our earliest bloomer this year<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Christmas cacti are wonderful plants to grow and save for generations of gardeners. They are long-lived; I've know families that have shared plants through 4 generations!<p></p><p>Native to Brazil in South America, this tropical succulent blooms in our winter for a couple of months. Though its primary bloom time is now, don't be surprised to see a limited rebloom in early spring. It is an epiphyte that naturally resides in the crooks of branches in its native habitat.</p><p> Choose a well-draining potting soil and a container with drainage holes. Water the plants when the soil is dry to the touch. Do not let the pot sit in a saucer with water. Plants need to be evenly watered when they are in bloom, but do well with less water after flowering. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi4hcD30VgTzp79t-6INfox1Psy9R30nV7M-R_UibgxQ2oESAShV6fuVVBdcF8iUKUFfEHXhqTDq7l-DfTpBO0p3bQQ0kboIz15FjSKP_7oYA-Be1GEU7QxSn7lbwSTWd1SlZVI1snEimVtxrn1eJ2SxfQrNYvqJKbKD-YVR1C9nLxKpQhhh3HLN-rW0/s4032/IMG_8248.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi4hcD30VgTzp79t-6INfox1Psy9R30nV7M-R_UibgxQ2oESAShV6fuVVBdcF8iUKUFfEHXhqTDq7l-DfTpBO0p3bQQ0kboIz15FjSKP_7oYA-Be1GEU7QxSn7lbwSTWd1SlZVI1snEimVtxrn1eJ2SxfQrNYvqJKbKD-YVR1C9nLxKpQhhh3HLN-rW0/w400-h300/IMG_8248.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sold this time of year in small, medium and large pots</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>My Christmas cactus lives out on my patio in the summer with very little care. It was brought indoors with the rest of my houseplants in late September. Lower temperatures did nip at the buds, but the flowers are showing lots of color now. Once the buds set, Christmas cacti prefer lower nighttime temperatures. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXPT1ebOqXODtMk3U2ZThMGsHRWQaaOpGwi5lHAUZ12aKEqizUw2YmIKo26uae9U4o6NQfybkO1jO1HczBF-Go5jGao9kXoC9LO-esbAF5OWXtrtHV0W0QAu8b9sdErwq8bfB4Y8nZGhcv_LCE0i82c9H28h0B0F2fMXTLujvmk3xLQRFRUSgXwvvAzA/s4032/IMG_8249.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXPT1ebOqXODtMk3U2ZThMGsHRWQaaOpGwi5lHAUZ12aKEqizUw2YmIKo26uae9U4o6NQfybkO1jO1HczBF-Go5jGao9kXoC9LO-esbAF5OWXtrtHV0W0QAu8b9sdErwq8bfB4Y8nZGhcv_LCE0i82c9H28h0B0F2fMXTLujvmk3xLQRFRUSgXwvvAzA/w400-h300/IMG_8249.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small hanging basket is a perfect home for Holiday cacti</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Holiday cactus are easy to propagate. Take segmented cuttings in late winter and set them aside for a few days until the cut end dries out. Plant the cutting into soil; keep humid with a plastic cover or dome sold at garden supply store with seed starting supplies. Roots should form in 2-3 weeks. </p><p>At the garden center and from our WBAL viewers, we get many questions about Christmas cacti. We try to answer some of them in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=P1_YPSEneLw" target="_blank">this video</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-42023042925170811202023-11-02T13:27:00.002-04:002023-11-06T13:33:12.030-05:00Dwarf Alberta Spruce<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduzF-sO2ASBqD1nUNaRWktODW38H_Q3lKBscB6JD8P3XYIPfT4RDtaBLBh_qHg8FSGhx4AslULQ_K6W_pH35VsZFUpRs95bDmIvVuR-9Gni6hR9ClzKeAsKCLyHVXY3x9hhW-0t81hWeHjY9h6T2uG8-aK08GlE3Oygwh34aERBjHa-FSEH-sK03yLxs/s1200/IMG_8231.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="1200" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduzF-sO2ASBqD1nUNaRWktODW38H_Q3lKBscB6JD8P3XYIPfT4RDtaBLBh_qHg8FSGhx4AslULQ_K6W_pH35VsZFUpRs95bDmIvVuR-9Gni6hR9ClzKeAsKCLyHVXY3x9hhW-0t81hWeHjY9h6T2uG8-aK08GlE3Oygwh34aERBjHa-FSEH-sK03yLxs/w400-h168/IMG_8231.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dwarf Alberta Spruce welcome<br /> holiday guests to the front door</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Picea glauca 'Conica', grow in a cone shape, growing very slowly to about 12 feet at the rate of just a few inches a year. The classic Christmas tree shape provides the ideal tree for 'sprucing' up garden pots outside for the holidays. The addition of lights and ornaments create the perfect outdoor decorations welcoming guests to our homes. <div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGQp82kwCybR1fO9tjqnrElHtDWGehLDyun0b-9SysdXnyqvNLQ_nLUlDWfo7UFxZT85zyWB9pbPE0Ikxw09tdC_a1M0s3H-4Fzbsvn0zGi3964UIuJIHC4TU0qareTnPgn_Z2MM93x5qi4KVT36y2povinmZLXiaAFl5ToZ976QOQN33Pg-Ng9E3kUU/s662/1636895912193.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="616" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGQp82kwCybR1fO9tjqnrElHtDWGehLDyun0b-9SysdXnyqvNLQ_nLUlDWfo7UFxZT85zyWB9pbPE0Ikxw09tdC_a1M0s3H-4Fzbsvn0zGi3964UIuJIHC4TU0qareTnPgn_Z2MM93x5qi4KVT36y2povinmZLXiaAFl5ToZ976QOQN33Pg-Ng9E3kUU/w373-h400/1636895912193.jpeg" width="373" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spiral trained Dwarf Alberta Spruce<br />do well in the spring and summer gardens as well <br />Photo from plantingtree.com</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><p>Use a well-draining potting soil when planting in a pot. Water thoroughly whenever the soil surface is dry. Give the tree plenty of space from walls and posts as it does best with good air circulation. The needles are very short, just a 1/2 long, and are very densely packed. Apply holiday lights around the tree and add ornaments and ribbon to decorate. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp6xwGCorp5BIwuWbr1J_UIjVxxB1yW0BIY2fqVfv9kUHDDhQ0OwgCZKuAJKDUe-kIvGCHot1DW3DmeDjv5r3KGxzD9WA-hAo4wc-d21dAxGr_MsItjcVSSg7odsX6UWitM8RTQPZTaadyV-tneSs3nt0sJfzfRo3dOGCKucq-4t_hQlLRQHavVmUYdA/s3024/IMG_7482.JPEG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2746" data-original-width="3024" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp6xwGCorp5BIwuWbr1J_UIjVxxB1yW0BIY2fqVfv9kUHDDhQ0OwgCZKuAJKDUe-kIvGCHot1DW3DmeDjv5r3KGxzD9WA-hAo4wc-d21dAxGr_MsItjcVSSg7odsX6UWitM8RTQPZTaadyV-tneSs3nt0sJfzfRo3dOGCKucq-4t_hQlLRQHavVmUYdA/w400-h364/IMG_7482.JPEG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We have a nice assortment of sizes in stock now</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Dwarf Alberta Spruce are native to Alaska, parts of Canada, and to the northern most regions of the contiguous United States. They grow well in colder climates, and are often used in foundation plantings in gardens as far south as our mid-Atlantic region. Prepare an area in the yard to transplant the tree after the holidays; as hardy as it is, the Dwarf Alberta Spruce will not overwinter in a pot that freezes over winter. Because to base of the spruce grows the widest, make sure to give it plenty of space. Plant in an area with full sun, with good air circulation in organically amended (compost or Leafgro), Mulch around the tree, being careful to stay about 3 inches away from the trunk. After planting, water weekly until the soil freezes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdpdK3qlUL3szdkMYg5X4pSvyqgYN3JCEXVhXAlNIVIWtHCXGZhBuZZKo6D1sv8og_uw6Eqe1uLKvoLoqTofBQ_eZbKO0lLIc2v2mASWyytwJ_iNm-swXGw-6-CnLi2XGZ5ZwnKFI6BRjeSFZ29KntyJpfBlcoZERstomK6SKxllWHXNYhBD_ADXeby4/s800/G303-03.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdpdK3qlUL3szdkMYg5X4pSvyqgYN3JCEXVhXAlNIVIWtHCXGZhBuZZKo6D1sv8og_uw6Eqe1uLKvoLoqTofBQ_eZbKO0lLIc2v2mASWyytwJ_iNm-swXGw-6-CnLi2XGZ5ZwnKFI6BRjeSFZ29KntyJpfBlcoZERstomK6SKxllWHXNYhBD_ADXeby4/w300-h400/G303-03.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picea glauca 'Conica'<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Dwarf Alberta Spruce will last for years in the landscape. They do require some maintenance to keep them nice, as they naturally prefer colder, dryer climates. </div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIGnXWq5G2wFUO1yrnskmEVGig8QhLx1YJNkZg8FNyVSELmyUcSgTIARyNa1PqYmToeUCN8SLAJG-_7qa9wp_UKDlBfzNbwcgZd55EpohYE0-Hpf1MGBc2ugyGmoCXA4wIqdD9HB2VJe7P9qzivxbA0Gd7DEfbBkXCNpP0Kc6yQVaUN2_NoTZ6Csq9puQ" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIGnXWq5G2wFUO1yrnskmEVGig8QhLx1YJNkZg8FNyVSELmyUcSgTIARyNa1PqYmToeUCN8SLAJG-_7qa9wp_UKDlBfzNbwcgZd55EpohYE0-Hpf1MGBc2ugyGmoCXA4wIqdD9HB2VJe7P9qzivxbA0Gd7DEfbBkXCNpP0Kc6yQVaUN2_NoTZ6Csq9puQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow, the perfect decoration<br />Randy Harter photo<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-52879115635088549892023-10-22T08:06:00.019-04:002023-10-22T14:07:22.363-04:00Cyclamen<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-2uo9txjzxjsWbHZkmy8uRdDAR8Qr7gS5o0tlWNTP5W7VP3SnJL1yy1BDGUHC4UEcDeYlHNPSX7cFjW7NyNmYZFJz0qT8eugTySZhaAcuTYbLOVOV4gdDfEVUqlAJ2-PlDxXR7_mbp-fBxPRT9YskXR0cmouWh_4fzPP1I9qxv-mvqRve323u72xrU/s4032/IMG_3300.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-2uo9txjzxjsWbHZkmy8uRdDAR8Qr7gS5o0tlWNTP5W7VP3SnJL1yy1BDGUHC4UEcDeYlHNPSX7cFjW7NyNmYZFJz0qT8eugTySZhaAcuTYbLOVOV4gdDfEVUqlAJ2-PlDxXR7_mbp-fBxPRT9YskXR0cmouWh_4fzPP1I9qxv-mvqRve323u72xrU/w400-h300/IMG_3300.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cyclamen is a fall and winter favorite in our greenhouse.</td></tr></tbody></table><p> Cyclamens are cool-weather houseplants that bloom from October through March in our homes. The flowers bloom above heart-shaped leaves of green and silver. Various forms of cyclamen include miniature and florist cyclamen in shades of purple, lavender, red, white, and pink.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSb2isn3tKOMJd3ym5UCkZGfj0GqIfZF0GJURCOJqC4je7gYjky44M9RVN3in3zAlrgg1gpYi0QzQMloGcpLEBPP_Y2Fb-nENiWJ4gbjOUlv5JjH6jyJcXZZezqsCudR6fWt-svAw6rrVIm0gh0LEvCZW7Bjy0yFXdww31WAKJUlB4xE8WMlgCnxlDlZY/s600/dispthumb%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSb2isn3tKOMJd3ym5UCkZGfj0GqIfZF0GJURCOJqC4je7gYjky44M9RVN3in3zAlrgg1gpYi0QzQMloGcpLEBPP_Y2Fb-nENiWJ4gbjOUlv5JjH6jyJcXZZezqsCudR6fWt-svAw6rrVIm0gh0LEvCZW7Bjy0yFXdww31WAKJUlB4xE8WMlgCnxlDlZY/w400-h400/dispthumb%20(3).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cyclamen Mini Crispino Mix photo courtesy of Ball Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Though there are hardy varieties for our area that we sell in our perennial department in season, these houseplants will not survive outdoors. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6si5v_Yly5S1yYX5JWh_4CubXSSILofnfBQmhNEMav1dKr3ClT91_dkNDo8kkXSo3FXSiO_GbwSjabs04GavVMD8KHgKEyl26t-lvh13L7CsORhUj2cw6Crzk5lYV42NvZC3lMVRQimiy4RZNfjBDHcpLb9EhzlxIZDotVg85kQc_6gW_cE0yhBv_uYs/s1000/11115-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6si5v_Yly5S1yYX5JWh_4CubXSSILofnfBQmhNEMav1dKr3ClT91_dkNDo8kkXSo3FXSiO_GbwSjabs04GavVMD8KHgKEyl26t-lvh13L7CsORhUj2cw6Crzk5lYV42NvZC3lMVRQimiy4RZNfjBDHcpLb9EhzlxIZDotVg85kQc_6gW_cE0yhBv_uYs/w400-h400/11115-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cyclamen Bisous Mix </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Keep Cyclamen in a cooler house, between 50 and 68 degrees F, in a brightly lit area possibly on a windowsill. Water the plant beneath the leaves and flowers when the soil surface is dry. Waiting for the plant or flowers to wilt before watering will reduce the beauty and the bloom time of the cyclamen. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKFfKHiuyvQeXJv1um_twVVJdNFdjKAe16EKA2eZAhRaoWKZGv5clfuQDsb7FhEgiqxFMOUL8361L8tH5XXZKr9Ipsq7F0Mg5b2y2u9CT5exv2tToOOp19Z7c9kyIOj0DPhqyaPq3kQ-z02hYKqA30hVJllZHP1FhPBJcMapw8orXA_V2x69xyp9ea9Q/s3264/IMG_0063.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKFfKHiuyvQeXJv1um_twVVJdNFdjKAe16EKA2eZAhRaoWKZGv5clfuQDsb7FhEgiqxFMOUL8361L8tH5XXZKr9Ipsq7F0Mg5b2y2u9CT5exv2tToOOp19Z7c9kyIOj0DPhqyaPq3kQ-z02hYKqA30hVJllZHP1FhPBJcMapw8orXA_V2x69xyp9ea9Q/w400-h300/IMG_0063.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A display at Longwood Gardens displays Amaryllis with Cyclamen</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Cyclamen are a good choice for the holidays to include with Poinsettias, Norfolk Island Pines, Amaryllis and other festive indoor plants. A mixed basket with Cyclamen as the floral centerpiece is a great way to spread cheer during visits to friends and families all winter. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqkx7sGffEyrIbnXX59F3E4bwp8vvVm34DPLM2vQWC6IFsNOaDMd_L_3ZnJGnfPY4rnpHTvauP0Bjrz9vv364oE959lz8kEj9STV-ltzHXEjGY9J3MLDy2LrJMV0SAioJQKEJx6Omc3Op0Tkh47nk37hPTHiS6mOHnjFivNp8zrcUvoLVCP9UmLmxYg0/s1008/Resized_20231022_140127.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqkx7sGffEyrIbnXX59F3E4bwp8vvVm34DPLM2vQWC6IFsNOaDMd_L_3ZnJGnfPY4rnpHTvauP0Bjrz9vv364oE959lz8kEj9STV-ltzHXEjGY9J3MLDy2LrJMV0SAioJQKEJx6Omc3Op0Tkh47nk37hPTHiS6mOHnjFivNp8zrcUvoLVCP9UmLmxYg0/w400-h300/Resized_20231022_140127.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruth just made this basket with cyclamen, Norfolk Island pine and other plants. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Cyclamen will be available in a large assortment of colors and sizes through March. </p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-41484204497888953022023-10-15T13:03:00.003-04:002023-10-15T13:18:15.999-04:00Plant of the Week----Ornamental Cabbage and Kale<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sQ-FGx2hu6uIEPWhwHEmZ15qQPxzBwylBq_FT2Uej6n6owRqcnnEClxWg_XfjxdVvdMnzakFEh9_1rGmAsKCjLvrSaj3-111quwbftACsp9G3gwp1Y52i_fstE09VivIKUIPJhIWJRPxDYv0A0rzifzBj5b-FgdepQmn8tyrJPB4z__ve_BYpRzwQK0/s1024/Ornamental-Cabbage_Osaka-iQ_Red-7-1024x683.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sQ-FGx2hu6uIEPWhwHEmZ15qQPxzBwylBq_FT2Uej6n6owRqcnnEClxWg_XfjxdVvdMnzakFEh9_1rGmAsKCjLvrSaj3-111quwbftACsp9G3gwp1Y52i_fstE09VivIKUIPJhIWJRPxDYv0A0rzifzBj5b-FgdepQmn8tyrJPB4z__ve_BYpRzwQK0/w400-h266/Ornamental-Cabbage_Osaka-iQ_Red-7-1024x683.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornamental Cabbage and Kale </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Fall's favorite flowers are undoubtedly mums and pansies. Both are cold-tolerant and great for cool weather color. Add a cool-weather leafy plant that will brighten up the garden with remarkable color as other plants fade. Ornamental cabbage and kale, Brassica oleracea, are the same species as their vegetable cousins, but they've been bred for color over taste. Instead of producing a cabbage-like head, these plants form a tight rosette of leaves that may be broad, flat or frilly like the kales we know and love. The plants will grow to about a foot high and a foot and a half wide.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0NvmnzK8a7g0sAFnScRyBYu6-VcTrYOWyqHvm6y8SEFI5R0Pqa8qk2PRuh-fsxzRQiRkfjfHJI4zmAbeY4pqJ_SNeohSyMVXM8vy73vH74xYc0WaSr6poqjOA5as8hFfo_P1UdTyZgBO7wei_iAdEZI2YJV8nlDL-543iYbbD12epEXJyUir2Uo8LUg/s1943/IMG_1414.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1943" data-original-width="1632" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0NvmnzK8a7g0sAFnScRyBYu6-VcTrYOWyqHvm6y8SEFI5R0Pqa8qk2PRuh-fsxzRQiRkfjfHJI4zmAbeY4pqJ_SNeohSyMVXM8vy73vH74xYc0WaSr6poqjOA5as8hFfo_P1UdTyZgBO7wei_iAdEZI2YJV8nlDL-543iYbbD12epEXJyUir2Uo8LUg/w336-h400/IMG_1414.jpg" width="336" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed fall container</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Our growers start ornamental cabbage and kale in late summer. By early fall, plants are shipped to the store with just a hint of color. As the weather cools, the cabbage and kale come into their own, increasing in size and color as mums start to fade. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesoaP3YpdrW3Tn6zBIrrZWgBwl-FZ8v8erUtxZ8TFtvYjsJiKdPstATGiJvbMAPtwC1Jhut_nuh9oFGhzKAsQXixODVrulZbbfRYhrNT5gfLxEHnZx6BXzjD6nGjqtxva-usHYi-qKxIWDXSxOoXTc8be8CWHPG53ZtRJp7B-WLb2RfssL2IDSNU-9bQ/s4032/IMG_8129.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesoaP3YpdrW3Tn6zBIrrZWgBwl-FZ8v8erUtxZ8TFtvYjsJiKdPstATGiJvbMAPtwC1Jhut_nuh9oFGhzKAsQXixODVrulZbbfRYhrNT5gfLxEHnZx6BXzjD6nGjqtxva-usHYi-qKxIWDXSxOoXTc8be8CWHPG53ZtRJp7B-WLb2RfssL2IDSNU-9bQ/w400-h300/IMG_8129.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornamental Cabbage and Kale</td></tr></tbody></table><p>When shopping for the plants, look for large, compact plant with leaves covering the top of the pot. To transplant them, loosen the roots a bit. If lower leaves have yellowed, pull them off and bury the stem to the lowest leaves. Give them some fertilizer to get them growing and water well. On warmer, bright days, be sure to water thoroughly. </p><p>We grow a nice assortment of ornamental cabbage and kale, including:</p><p> Coral Queen</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a11Hj0F2m1de0xmrwLdYCmm-0-sMYRMLemOtMHXq908Ss8ZubnQTqJ1K7VXDjUKySnW72LtyLPJinBhg2X00n15v9ugwU0aLMxejpdoSzmmDHqpCPG2h5RmPkrH_9uAtif9gqnyNMW-AOnxAMlO-HAO6AKuRjRt1ioZf1YdL_L2EdR7CCDfWrs8-uIE/s600/s102839372131170098_p834_i5_w600.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="600" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a11Hj0F2m1de0xmrwLdYCmm-0-sMYRMLemOtMHXq908Ss8ZubnQTqJ1K7VXDjUKySnW72LtyLPJinBhg2X00n15v9ugwU0aLMxejpdoSzmmDHqpCPG2h5RmPkrH_9uAtif9gqnyNMW-AOnxAMlO-HAO6AKuRjRt1ioZf1YdL_L2EdR7CCDfWrs8-uIE/w400-h368/s102839372131170098_p834_i5_w600.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coral Queen photo courtesy Pinewood</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Glamour Red</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-N6JW0X5oE7a9h06MnT8flppkfkVawXTh5DU3gMGdWYcZ8e_qeF1AWiJKAeUUerDATPDXALaoBwsynF6zk1ptH5G6gI8vCkmGxUMP3A9s76xjHGJ88bn7sissKLdZ04yXgyX8Uzf3Ibuaw6EoAWtDnlyth74zpgLiQewSQqq-q3thGpPQ899UD8CIBqs/s1600/Orn.Kale_GlamourRed-2011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-N6JW0X5oE7a9h06MnT8flppkfkVawXTh5DU3gMGdWYcZ8e_qeF1AWiJKAeUUerDATPDXALaoBwsynF6zk1ptH5G6gI8vCkmGxUMP3A9s76xjHGJ88bn7sissKLdZ04yXgyX8Uzf3Ibuaw6EoAWtDnlyth74zpgLiQewSQqq-q3thGpPQ899UD8CIBqs/w300-h400/Orn.Kale_GlamourRed-2011.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glamour Red photo courtesy of AAS</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Kamome Red</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5apfRFJoNHQv9sklRIxCcMkxFvWyWJVK4BIGyX5-jxw0Sa-qW6szn_jK3mO7g2XhNJ5AKaIs6mgSTO9k-hNvU-90Gtsb906FSCJOLmWrzmfMp_ss7_MeUmosStJFuYPiqiG4kBGWJzVSd8M0e74b1qI3x0rMtDB4eZpEmslum3kj1mCYEs9cTlJPNttA/s600/dispthumb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5apfRFJoNHQv9sklRIxCcMkxFvWyWJVK4BIGyX5-jxw0Sa-qW6szn_jK3mO7g2XhNJ5AKaIs6mgSTO9k-hNvU-90Gtsb906FSCJOLmWrzmfMp_ss7_MeUmosStJFuYPiqiG4kBGWJzVSd8M0e74b1qI3x0rMtDB4eZpEmslum3kj1mCYEs9cTlJPNttA/s320/dispthumb.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kamome Red photo courtesy of Ball Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Nagoya White</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWShjZLOLHOVX8Smq3Yt0vXsX10H3JEsKnR1mDFk5e-Bo0Y8jb1FFxMLYSt_V0Vyih2cw7ztlvXWzDFTQ5nFLHnSfryoHPmNL-OTKbOis17SzA4vPzW1yqnIeoXYN6YzlMOuU19-cKqCo1F0ltLcWHlLpJfgUw-u2-Mq5R0-4BlHIhaROlp_HpQT63Sw/s800/Ornamental-Kale_Nagoya_White-347-800x800.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWShjZLOLHOVX8Smq3Yt0vXsX10H3JEsKnR1mDFk5e-Bo0Y8jb1FFxMLYSt_V0Vyih2cw7ztlvXWzDFTQ5nFLHnSfryoHPmNL-OTKbOis17SzA4vPzW1yqnIeoXYN6YzlMOuU19-cKqCo1F0ltLcWHlLpJfgUw-u2-Mq5R0-4BlHIhaROlp_HpQT63Sw/w400-h400/Ornamental-Kale_Nagoya_White-347-800x800.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nagoya White photo courtesy of Sakata Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Osaka Dynasty Red</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrb_7f78RAMjONNEvJIntmjrTolj8C5HBx-StjsjyBCkmqzIoB4tLO6VJylaKvXrCNni0Hiwvg8u0SWLIXLsQxRLchaa-_z0DP-Gw2ibIPjKVTuAr_aCVJ6pfvQ7RTz3bxX2-ygfiLNbRS3ybQOQAgqLjWF2nw_4Vy3bCis7RaCsvKr1L7v-vhPjDr4qw/s600/dispthumb%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrb_7f78RAMjONNEvJIntmjrTolj8C5HBx-StjsjyBCkmqzIoB4tLO6VJylaKvXrCNni0Hiwvg8u0SWLIXLsQxRLchaa-_z0DP-Gw2ibIPjKVTuAr_aCVJ6pfvQ7RTz3bxX2-ygfiLNbRS3ybQOQAgqLjWF2nw_4Vy3bCis7RaCsvKr1L7v-vhPjDr4qw/w400-h400/dispthumb%20(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osaka Dynasty Red photo courtesy of Ball Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Osaka Pink Bicolor</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4ESYO6YpE5KwYyudKgt0wzHsaYKL2NKS3BbnTF4J2asyFBCjchL0x7_emwFiv6o9XzYsmcnmUHxP0TQ3-eQJMzHgZQIna0LXrAtZ0cmjUJKezBHTa9feJ7ypm-wZB0rC0TNUYC0pzrmpyelAgFqdryT1jjL4Y2HCZW7ZQOX5sMv2ODCc19p1Q17Pd1M/s600/dispthumb%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4ESYO6YpE5KwYyudKgt0wzHsaYKL2NKS3BbnTF4J2asyFBCjchL0x7_emwFiv6o9XzYsmcnmUHxP0TQ3-eQJMzHgZQIna0LXrAtZ0cmjUJKezBHTa9feJ7ypm-wZB0rC0TNUYC0pzrmpyelAgFqdryT1jjL4Y2HCZW7ZQOX5sMv2ODCc19p1Q17Pd1M/w400-h400/dispthumb%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osaka Pink Bicolor photo courtesy of Ball Seed </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Peacock Red</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjudb6E_rHw_SkeuwTiLckii_QOFadmjVW9UxyzquwbKrZzmsOBqpuXe3X7JGKTtUNAaIWH51xJ8LBWWG_kQ-IST5mNBoHzdMJX6-1E6TvFWn9SpGhF1jdu_iQh64ZU4qy2qsw4xxyMjdkcLZDOH_ea-X29GR2EytFtIFYEN2DaXab_1GzhY_P3RTyw1K4/s600/DETA-1440.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjudb6E_rHw_SkeuwTiLckii_QOFadmjVW9UxyzquwbKrZzmsOBqpuXe3X7JGKTtUNAaIWH51xJ8LBWWG_kQ-IST5mNBoHzdMJX6-1E6TvFWn9SpGhF1jdu_iQh64ZU4qy2qsw4xxyMjdkcLZDOH_ea-X29GR2EytFtIFYEN2DaXab_1GzhY_P3RTyw1K4/w400-h266/DETA-1440.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peacock Red photo courtesy of Lucas Greenhouses</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Pigeon Purple and White</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tjoBXr4eVW1qCSnhHLZC_x1sULjUDzH4QkrFWbexL9I4Dh16bJxuTBHTdJV3CpXykAqnuRDDzVpMioOjyNGVg1L-XakdSrCkIVgMzDRc1n1NXZ92aMm3CgQIiI-0Tk7oakVrZzB_eTn_LdGQpbLsmxolD6wTShW7D0rgjIizWnbn3oO7zG9sge5_6Lg/s400/0282a91e8e96dbb28cef8703efbd9770_grande.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tjoBXr4eVW1qCSnhHLZC_x1sULjUDzH4QkrFWbexL9I4Dh16bJxuTBHTdJV3CpXykAqnuRDDzVpMioOjyNGVg1L-XakdSrCkIVgMzDRc1n1NXZ92aMm3CgQIiI-0Tk7oakVrZzB_eTn_LdGQpbLsmxolD6wTShW7D0rgjIizWnbn3oO7zG9sge5_6Lg/w400-h400/0282a91e8e96dbb28cef8703efbd9770_grande.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pigeon Purple (our best seller) photo courtesy of Harris Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Songbird Red</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RY5Afu_cIRHmG6_fwB7TuDqZRdOcl6392sEbdN5XKAgm23Z5QIV-Qkrv4g5JkbTKuk-tT0Nfe1yB0VRjJepiYWa7QPz409G7cSJrUAq0yhwbVodAQT1rqvKZMbz7MUfKoDRt-wV9E8L-lVgLVFE1yfrqp6JyaZiKkBJuXf_ChQFor2FS5YgMKEsbdJ8/s500/Flower-Kale-Song-Bird-Red.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="472" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RY5Afu_cIRHmG6_fwB7TuDqZRdOcl6392sEbdN5XKAgm23Z5QIV-Qkrv4g5JkbTKuk-tT0Nfe1yB0VRjJepiYWa7QPz409G7cSJrUAq0yhwbVodAQT1rqvKZMbz7MUfKoDRt-wV9E8L-lVgLVFE1yfrqp6JyaZiKkBJuXf_ChQFor2FS5YgMKEsbdJ8/w378-h400/Flower-Kale-Song-Bird-Red.jpg" width="378" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Songbird Red photo courtesy Takii Seed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Compliment the plants with pansies on a front border, with ornamental grasses behind them, or decorate planters with cut evergreen boughs for the winter holidays. </p><p>Use the leaves for flower arrangements and/or as a garnish on plates at dinnertime.</p><p>Do keep an eye out for holes in the leaves that may be a result of slug damage or cabbage worm. They may be removed by hand, sprayed with water or a safe, organic pesticide. </p><p>Enjoy the ornamental cabbage and kale this fall and winter. </p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-72949262929711419722023-10-02T10:20:00.000-04:002023-10-02T10:20:31.983-04:00When to Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZYxkMmnweQihMcvXuWk7-TDEmOD5r88fHRd0j4eLrXOZs127ZYBItAIKbQxDhW5VA7nCnQk7wEcB03gi8za0AQmeZGoQtTRSHNFe0x43D1sduRF2f201496RIOhPzWkOGInENmXXqexOqsRiDyOvXnNGjyOKlNp4wfqMFW1I-SKZbMYEsesCE_FblYs/s640/Tulip%20artists.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="640" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZYxkMmnweQihMcvXuWk7-TDEmOD5r88fHRd0j4eLrXOZs127ZYBItAIKbQxDhW5VA7nCnQk7wEcB03gi8za0AQmeZGoQtTRSHNFe0x43D1sduRF2f201496RIOhPzWkOGInENmXXqexOqsRiDyOvXnNGjyOKlNp4wfqMFW1I-SKZbMYEsesCE_FblYs/w400-h336/Tulip%20artists.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artists at Longwood Gardens</td></tr></tbody></table> <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprrETERdfUmxnt_vtcAzJOqa9iEBDNOzDTUDx2AQq7JD429fr_209v3XRSf9lf7wurGrliHEsZL5aAJpOilxxpxY_uEOvJPRocwpGPz80fOYJ2TTQFLEELanaeaq9CFkTkJfaTdUfaYvVq-V_oXNmZPyzvQI69lIxvGAlS-W1i5xoeYA2jn3l__mZ2NM/s4032/IMG_2123.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprrETERdfUmxnt_vtcAzJOqa9iEBDNOzDTUDx2AQq7JD429fr_209v3XRSf9lf7wurGrliHEsZL5aAJpOilxxpxY_uEOvJPRocwpGPz80fOYJ2TTQFLEELanaeaq9CFkTkJfaTdUfaYvVq-V_oXNmZPyzvQI69lIxvGAlS-W1i5xoeYA2jn3l__mZ2NM/w400-h300/IMG_2123.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comparing varieties at Longwood</td></tr></tbody></table><br />When asked about the best time to plant bulbs, my short answer is to buy them early (now) to get the best selection but wait until late October-November to plant them. A message from Colorblend Bulbs recently opened on my computer with this statement: "You now it's fall planting time when...<p></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yrSSPmXw7uD3wyNsrkWBDCC6hpbnVBFpt8r9540JWxYJaBP34aMe5v4uVE8dWkcSz8KxapDPGV8gR-hmd7CQ9Kd3hjsfexr_fLIKMmPINoBvKZA79rm36Td0dUBiiHnmIDZShi3yGogtaSD3J2yYI3NzUIJf2oNNfxU_g5TC-V2auwJwDRDsz5lX_E0/s4032/IMG_2115.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yrSSPmXw7uD3wyNsrkWBDCC6hpbnVBFpt8r9540JWxYJaBP34aMe5v4uVE8dWkcSz8KxapDPGV8gR-hmd7CQ9Kd3hjsfexr_fLIKMmPINoBvKZA79rm36Td0dUBiiHnmIDZShi3yGogtaSD3J2yYI3NzUIJf2oNNfxU_g5TC-V2auwJwDRDsz5lX_E0/w400-h300/IMG_2115.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the color combinations</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Fall nighttime temperatures are between 40 and 50 degrees F</li><li>The fall foliage has moved just past its peak</li><li>Soil temperatures are approaching 55 degrees F</li><li>There is frost on your windshield some mornings</li><li>You start turning on the heat in your car</li><li>You get your first killing frost</li><li>You start taking blankets to the football game</li><li><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yX-PZN09l1zafRvAXXCdjW69aJChNs-QpZZNkxwwTogIHc0DjvqQUw51pwD5BtVy1fcPcxzyWEQTQW7sf9Rr5u5RQq31847oRfBl1sV79n9vrw0vfHLfsE6RkSa7QGRoPaW70D0wL4GlN9OL7TohuZ49FIRQCGE3XQEFYAmG9B19tLhbgZkN_Yadbpk/s640/Frittilaria%20imperialis.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="640" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yX-PZN09l1zafRvAXXCdjW69aJChNs-QpZZNkxwwTogIHc0DjvqQUw51pwD5BtVy1fcPcxzyWEQTQW7sf9Rr5u5RQq31847oRfBl1sV79n9vrw0vfHLfsE6RkSa7QGRoPaW70D0wL4GlN9OL7TohuZ49FIRQCGE3XQEFYAmG9B19tLhbgZkN_Yadbpk/w400-h289/Frittilaria%20imperialis.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frittalaria</td></tr></tbody></table></li><li>The hummingbirds are gone</li><li>Winesap apples are starting to turn red</li><li>You don't hear crickets any more</li><li>Squirrels are digging in acorns as fast as they can"</li><li>and so on</li></ul><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSKlrYFQF_ViDkE7siJt7vsWsL7Bo3IeTKZWFO35fXyV0y2UyuBFr52J6cSUJqE0xZOQpfiPN2nsBrWoLkrYisPedstGCcFWz-88TqTa91vOgn3Z3TbZC2JYJ9oiXoNRKTfCvRq4Twqrpsk3ZGTeo7INdSy8p-pAqulMAZXjNtmhwEtezcHIojMTbsOU/s900/Crocus%20tommasinianus%20Ruby%20Giant.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSKlrYFQF_ViDkE7siJt7vsWsL7Bo3IeTKZWFO35fXyV0y2UyuBFr52J6cSUJqE0xZOQpfiPN2nsBrWoLkrYisPedstGCcFWz-88TqTa91vOgn3Z3TbZC2JYJ9oiXoNRKTfCvRq4Twqrpsk3ZGTeo7INdSy8p-pAqulMAZXjNtmhwEtezcHIojMTbsOU/w400-h266/Crocus%20tommasinianus%20Ruby%20Giant.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early crocus perfect for early pollinators<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>I am a procrastinator everywhere, including in my own garden. Most bulbs need 12-14 weeks of dormancy to bloom in spring. It was January last year when I planted the last of the daffodils. Luckily, they had been in an unheated area before then. They bloomed beautifully. </div><div><br /></div><div>Bulb planting time coincides with hosta leaves browning and laying down. Because I've learned to let leaves and foliage be for the wildlife and beneficial insects in my yard, the garden never gets a thorough cleaning. </div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElT3mPb3IbncRVt8VGHf36RyPXDtRScDHvuPj9ZjycC-im5SvPsL6_8UZJ26zllCxkGU-lBMKFYbVd2_tcoMG7DXAVNyJCZItMMuklOi1NCp6YwXbrq4lBJ_PZx-pnB7bbwFSACBoqH9NXtAI-ISdC76_gpFk7JWf6UdNm3nNW31dDN0J-keexpArQVA/s640/Muscari%20armeniacum%20Keukenhof.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElT3mPb3IbncRVt8VGHf36RyPXDtRScDHvuPj9ZjycC-im5SvPsL6_8UZJ26zllCxkGU-lBMKFYbVd2_tcoMG7DXAVNyJCZItMMuklOi1NCp6YwXbrq4lBJ_PZx-pnB7bbwFSACBoqH9NXtAI-ISdC76_gpFk7JWf6UdNm3nNW31dDN0J-keexpArQVA/w400-h268/Muscari%20armeniacum%20Keukenhof.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A river of Grape Hyacinths at world-famous Keukenhof Gardens</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div>Bulbs make more of a statement when planted in masses, drifts or clusters. Mixing varieties together can be fun, just watch to see that the bulbs planted will bloom together or apart, according to your plan. There is some wonderful information at <a href="http://www.digdropdone.com/" target="_blank">Dig.Drop.Done</a> about bulbs from our friends in The Netherlands. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1lWTTe3yB0k_G_WamqTrtpElIAuTjvZ9RDhX_aWv1nclkYhwTpONA5cN4c-eQ0o6kMLmp5AxKa_pz6nSZJNCQiBgt6V9RxhxOIGDT8ATMTdg_9pT69IF4jU7EMuYz_jFlZ20rq9iJJmd9TXdMs2NeWulpf_cZvLZypu4Uiqh7BSeXnCzieAxQ_r6JBc/s4032/IMG_2100.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1lWTTe3yB0k_G_WamqTrtpElIAuTjvZ9RDhX_aWv1nclkYhwTpONA5cN4c-eQ0o6kMLmp5AxKa_pz6nSZJNCQiBgt6V9RxhxOIGDT8ATMTdg_9pT69IF4jU7EMuYz_jFlZ20rq9iJJmd9TXdMs2NeWulpf_cZvLZypu4Uiqh7BSeXnCzieAxQ_r6JBc/w400-h300/IMG_2100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixtures of tulips, columbine in beds<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p></p><p><br /></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-56480699666449557892023-09-24T12:42:00.000-04:002023-09-24T12:42:44.785-04:00Plants of the Week---Sweetspire, Oakleaf Hydrangea, Serviceberry, and Winterberry<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPmjLwzZw2vPtF_qEsfHe14UEaNDoqrjG-Whjncdma7JQDU9-QL2wl3azI97haTKLfQiaKfG6jvK2yGOEeAtMvrSYvWpz63quyJ8NoaX6UAhSR_3MLqfhtDUyYVl2QDje3mjsWTNpQX6gcT8k6uvAdAh9SA6GvduuR786eJOOtzXDIqn1uQGq4LYnvU0/s2896/DSC_0596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2896" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPmjLwzZw2vPtF_qEsfHe14UEaNDoqrjG-Whjncdma7JQDU9-QL2wl3azI97haTKLfQiaKfG6jvK2yGOEeAtMvrSYvWpz63quyJ8NoaX6UAhSR_3MLqfhtDUyYVl2QDje3mjsWTNpQX6gcT8k6uvAdAh9SA6GvduuR786eJOOtzXDIqn1uQGq4LYnvU0/w400-h269/DSC_0596.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>While autumn's tree foliage brings incredible beauty to our landscapes, several shrubs offer brilliant color as well. Following are a few fall favorites.<p>' Henry's Garnet 'Sweetspire is a native deciduous plant found in the southeastern United States. <i>Itea</i> <i>virginica</i> grows from about 6-8 feet tall, forming graceful, arching branches. In the early summer, Sweetspire blooms small, lightly fragrant white flowers on arching racemes.</p><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfyxVBmuAFROyak0ZeQSk6CeHp6ajGWXgJwjlWtNyjC84D0j7qTyRaLMl5XY5AJtBYNND6vt50gK6NCZeCDw6V5AEIY501BjSo2x-41t61hjdoaE0lKmBQHdJfndGjCOn4wIp4z7FwtoTC8xDim1TQnhgbXb5yD5moMgIbnrzY6bSXXgoXe2IrQbdEPc/s620/virginiasweetspireumd-620x411.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="620" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfyxVBmuAFROyak0ZeQSk6CeHp6ajGWXgJwjlWtNyjC84D0j7qTyRaLMl5XY5AJtBYNND6vt50gK6NCZeCDw6V5AEIY501BjSo2x-41t61hjdoaE0lKmBQHdJfndGjCOn4wIp4z7FwtoTC8xDim1TQnhgbXb5yD5moMgIbnrzY6bSXXgoXe2IrQbdEPc/w400-h265/virginiasweetspireumd-620x411.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetspire photo by Sam Bahr, UMD</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">'Henry's Garnet' puts on a colorful show in autumn with red to purple foliage that lasts into winter. The shrub prefers moist soil in partial sun and shade. It is a great plant to use along banks or in wet areas to control soil erosion. Prune after flowering as it blooms on last year's wood. Sweetspire is a great plant</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">to add to the landscape for blooming color in summer and wonderful fall leaves. </span></div><p></p><p>The Oakleaf hydrangea,<i> Hydrangea quercifolia</i>, dominates the front of my home where I have let it grow a little too big on the corner. This plant has four season interest. The white flowers in late spring turn a mauve color in mid-summer. The fall leaf color sports shades of maroon, purple and red beneath the fading flowers. Added to that, the bark has a peeling nature in a lovely cinnamon color.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0BZjocqYdho3HedNoHDa5cGiltYUAvfhSnAoN_LD5uNwxpJ9HU7PWJCNkk3599BbxWEoqE1pbTyXyw_om6b2xXDTtEgQpA2vnhcy1or1i-O3gRB0cGyqZ3IYqaGn2ztNrHNweGr57kuE60udbg_1PRmknB90W_Kd-mk8BugGNzS1TF9fqODZg7Y6J0Y/s4032/IMG_7918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0BZjocqYdho3HedNoHDa5cGiltYUAvfhSnAoN_LD5uNwxpJ9HU7PWJCNkk3599BbxWEoqE1pbTyXyw_om6b2xXDTtEgQpA2vnhcy1or1i-O3gRB0cGyqZ3IYqaGn2ztNrHNweGr57kuE60udbg_1PRmknB90W_Kd-mk8BugGNzS1TF9fqODZg7Y6J0Y/w400-h300/IMG_7918.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oakleaf hydrangea fall colors</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzOLAj1KpN-6trMNeLyNSAe6TqnfnBVsvV-i9poT-5ZX3_PlfG7V6COuRh0AiTSBdCkVO6PEFXjNOHQzW8Q7P-vwnIpxmhHe9IkIDWYeE2jCRTqH9emPkVzkUrBy28OtwiJbC2X0A5EKewejyV9-xFznPk4LcuUhfgdmAFu5BzXTKRvxBeVYqtlZsGu0/s600/HGIC_native_Hydrangea_quercifolia_fall_MT_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzOLAj1KpN-6trMNeLyNSAe6TqnfnBVsvV-i9poT-5ZX3_PlfG7V6COuRh0AiTSBdCkVO6PEFXjNOHQzW8Q7P-vwnIpxmhHe9IkIDWYeE2jCRTqH9emPkVzkUrBy28OtwiJbC2X0A5EKewejyV9-xFznPk4LcuUhfgdmAFu5BzXTKRvxBeVYqtlZsGu0/w400-h300/HGIC_native_Hydrangea_quercifolia_fall_MT_600.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oakleaf hydrangea photo courtesy of University of Maryland</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Oakleaf hydrangea is a native to the southeastern United States. It thrives in light shade, shooting sprouts from underground which allows it to colonize easily if space is available. The deer have left it alone, unlike the other hydrangeas in my landscape. Oakleaf hydrangea will handle moist, though not wet, soil. The cone-shaped flower clusters are about 6-12 inches tall and about 5 inches wide at their base. </p><p>Serviceberry, <i>Amelanchier canadensis</i>, may fall more into the small tree category, as it grows 15 feet or more, but its natural form is a multi-stemmed shrub. Native to Maryland, it easily adapts to a broad range of soils, including clay and sand. The white flowers in spring and the fall berries are prized by native wildlife. Early flowers provide pollen and nectar to a wide variety of beneficial insects, including native bees. The berries provide for many birds, including Robins, Baltimore Orioles, Cedar Waxwings and Catbirds. The fall leaf colors are yellow, orange and red. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ29-aYi_PN1ZSFqDTA0X0x5R-EzU0Z7DqRhVZCMO3RTGUVZ_2NZULAjfT_64Z8tT6Z6xF7e7IVoRjT8GaQoITTYMKKi3rFpdTr7JpRBJTJVMrNPldte6_YLME1H4ifZTyeA7ZiUmT6xLO2MrwBs7BWVFIy0bbeB5wv8MWWQF5K5Cl7HZ_QZuTKWTiB04/s800/Serviceberry%20fall.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ29-aYi_PN1ZSFqDTA0X0x5R-EzU0Z7DqRhVZCMO3RTGUVZ_2NZULAjfT_64Z8tT6Z6xF7e7IVoRjT8GaQoITTYMKKi3rFpdTr7JpRBJTJVMrNPldte6_YLME1H4ifZTyeA7ZiUmT6xLO2MrwBs7BWVFIy0bbeB5wv8MWWQF5K5Cl7HZ_QZuTKWTiB04/w400-h268/Serviceberry%20fall.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serviceberry photo courtesy of <a href="http:plants.valleyviewfarms.com/12170010" target="_blank">Plant Finder</a> as seen on our website</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Serviceberry grows in full sun to part shade in slightly acidic soil. It is an excellent alternative to the invasive Bradford pear. </p><p>Winterberry,<i> Ilex verticillata</i>, is a fall favorite for the berried stems that find all sorts of uses in fall and winter decorating. The deciduous holly loses its leaves in the next month or two, leaving branches of colorful red berries. Native to the eastern United States, Winterberry does very well in wetland habitats, and is adaptable enough to adapt to dry sites. The shrub reaches 10-15 feet and is available in a dwarf version. Winterberry requires a female and male plant to produce berries. </p><p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPAfjGMA0Z7G5CJY_wkVz7Ln3TrGCeruC2B0AqI4ZJxiKWnK9dKkukD7DRFmAFgdsIRz5xrTYl7tMaxeqS9kRGRgrflu3KzP-w2e9OLx-9ToyEngOkVFPQmQl17NyhZVnHj65BmhdO9_ySY7isAtGZzfDr68zUv-S6FXDp8rmwZE3oyiuLlcy99O1LYc/s3872/DSC_0773.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="3872" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPAfjGMA0Z7G5CJY_wkVz7Ln3TrGCeruC2B0AqI4ZJxiKWnK9dKkukD7DRFmAFgdsIRz5xrTYl7tMaxeqS9kRGRgrflu3KzP-w2e9OLx-9ToyEngOkVFPQmQl17NyhZVnHj65BmhdO9_ySY7isAtGZzfDr68zUv-S6FXDp8rmwZE3oyiuLlcy99O1LYc/w400-h268/DSC_0773.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The leaves will drop, leaving a bounty of berries</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Winterberry is attractive to birds and butterflies. Look for coral-colored varieties too. <div><br /></div><div><b>Don't plant this</b>---<i>Euonymous alatus</i>, known as Burning Bush for its bright red fall color, is an invasive plant. It is on Maryland's Tier Two Invasives list. While it can still be sold in Maryland, a sign must accompany the plants on the nursery lots to warn gardeners of its invasive nature. Plant some of the native plants listed above to take the Euonymous' place in landscape. <br /><br /><p></p><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnA5W7BUzR6LBaAjULR86WN1gJu3MN6T57LxvJHDu30vAOTr2D8MhQv7liktihZZD7J90cb-2jidvm1EUp14ID1PtpnBEr0J33q_7UUCo6Se4M8Nr-cxw9kFnMYM5y6W2Yk-q09XgZKIep7Ki6YjGc0PVRjjlmAVBXHgyiuAO9hYXYBp_FVrt-qPlKnIo/s2960/IMG_3026.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2960" data-original-width="2448" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnA5W7BUzR6LBaAjULR86WN1gJu3MN6T57LxvJHDu30vAOTr2D8MhQv7liktihZZD7J90cb-2jidvm1EUp14ID1PtpnBEr0J33q_7UUCo6Se4M8Nr-cxw9kFnMYM5y6W2Yk-q09XgZKIep7Ki6YjGc0PVRjjlmAVBXHgyiuAO9hYXYBp_FVrt-qPlKnIo/w331-h400/IMG_3026.jpg" width="331" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Burning Bush has since been removed from this landscape. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />Autumn's colors are amazing and may be part of the reason that so many call fall their favorite season. Plant some native trees and shrubs this October while the soil is warm and the air cool.<div><br /></div><div>Enjoy this wonderful time of year!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-3552910403114787802023-09-10T07:26:00.000-04:002023-09-10T07:26:44.431-04:00Plants of the Week---Ornamental Grasses<p> </p><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkIl2IXL_zHEXyhuwu_83Uje7N5LiIqrNNLd9I8dH5y52VpeKkZlWMoOD-56Gj6ucPlhWsO6NH1tXv-Qq_06UDBn_eiewmQKgSwvAhXbvFfzPY71-JU65XpAFjM8Dk8DohyY-zah0rTpJsjIecOIxBoSWAQ0j9-ul9vVBSVYMtz86XoGUMFIQdfFdD7M/s640/grasses8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkIl2IXL_zHEXyhuwu_83Uje7N5LiIqrNNLd9I8dH5y52VpeKkZlWMoOD-56Gj6ucPlhWsO6NH1tXv-Qq_06UDBn_eiewmQKgSwvAhXbvFfzPY71-JU65XpAFjM8Dk8DohyY-zah0rTpJsjIecOIxBoSWAQ0j9-ul9vVBSVYMtz86XoGUMFIQdfFdD7M/w400-h268/grasses8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Ornamental grasses rarely take center stage, instead they provide backdrop, form and movement in the summer, fall and winter gardens. Ornamental grasses can be diminutive, like Blue Fescue, or dominating like Arondo donax. Most fall somewhere in between. </span></div><p></p><p>Grasses grow in various shapes. Most like full sun, but a few do well in shadier spaces. Hakonechloa is one of those. It's soft, arching habit is bamboo-like. Use it to soften the edge of a water or rock garden. In the shade, the bright yellow foliage brightens up darker areas. Hakonechloa grows to 24".</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqrqTKEOs1ZURPOHAfCDgb3eq1hGbb0AYyWA9Kl9A60Z0oi5lqUmm_PpDopiGlcJvDrB53cRk7aeXZC0PSUamDzu7kotLM_uQ_c_fFp2m2gYHPKwgUxG12vedNMPepFMAUmrKQua_eCWvje_HTZXXug5TitRYIVOzQz_mPFhvLfED4vX5VGVJkkWUQTw/s640/DSC_0742.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqrqTKEOs1ZURPOHAfCDgb3eq1hGbb0AYyWA9Kl9A60Z0oi5lqUmm_PpDopiGlcJvDrB53cRk7aeXZC0PSUamDzu7kotLM_uQ_c_fFp2m2gYHPKwgUxG12vedNMPepFMAUmrKQua_eCWvje_HTZXXug5TitRYIVOzQz_mPFhvLfED4vX5VGVJkkWUQTw/w400-h269/DSC_0742.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hakonechloa grows in drifts over a rock-edged stream </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88qWQCVO_rzaXxC_uEYiZcHsb_30FNP_OH2khg3mbEAnl8tD2zx1GJtnJHBtmZ8KCvrDaWNMzzUS6ZkuTyqLeb9OKM-iVlwuqtR2DX9ccB7GmsAZVT2eXHZdoQTNJe9FK0MEXKjF2TJeddSn3bBHITMwsuxQc2yJ1kncFloRSO1w8KCs9vo1IU_Kr7Yo/s640/IMG_1690.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88qWQCVO_rzaXxC_uEYiZcHsb_30FNP_OH2khg3mbEAnl8tD2zx1GJtnJHBtmZ8KCvrDaWNMzzUS6ZkuTyqLeb9OKM-iVlwuqtR2DX9ccB7GmsAZVT2eXHZdoQTNJe9FK0MEXKjF2TJeddSn3bBHITMwsuxQc2yJ1kncFloRSO1w8KCs9vo1IU_Kr7Yo/w400-h300/IMG_1690.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bright foliage blends with the new foliage of emerging trees at Ladew Gardens</td></tr></tbody></table><br />On the other end of the spectrum Arundo donax can grow to 6 feet or more depending on the variety. This plant works well in the background of taller plants like upright sedum, Russian sage, taller rudbeckias among others. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4ZQrmXPSbOmaq65x3x8USIZEus2R3sYWbYH2YTHnpHaWiraoZCB8jXjw0qlrH25SK8tMZ5atXuUcXus9KMtkBVNTp5jubAGaR5s1JPHWd3AuyQNDnjqpB_GN99KRVrmuju9vKPpR9gH-QxpLQQqQTncdQgIR39i0HUUW77hMBAEmKJsIQKR518jefRc/s640/grasses7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4ZQrmXPSbOmaq65x3x8USIZEus2R3sYWbYH2YTHnpHaWiraoZCB8jXjw0qlrH25SK8tMZ5atXuUcXus9KMtkBVNTp5jubAGaR5s1JPHWd3AuyQNDnjqpB_GN99KRVrmuju9vKPpR9gH-QxpLQQqQTncdQgIR39i0HUUW77hMBAEmKJsIQKR518jefRc/w400-h268/grasses7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arundo donax pictured with Russian sage and sedum at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Combinations of summer and fall blooming annuals and tropical plants are the perfect way to use ornamental grasses. Pennisetum, aka fountain grasses, add movement to the garden too, as they sway with the breeze. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRu_VC2ZGzae_Vvn3ilFfADQhu5o3oajJQMA7oHA8WZpmkKUbbwWBRkWDxJEIuEk2yiX3vVskjBv36KNW9xLSQdedwa5hW3YyHhgn_i2JltNU2EcgfTFWDSiRw9E5Z5besBklXHrEi4j4u4Eg1khRjXHKvXDYrwzHWfa-Uij3MXio2JMG7pjSBM410OJQ/s640/DSC05529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRu_VC2ZGzae_Vvn3ilFfADQhu5o3oajJQMA7oHA8WZpmkKUbbwWBRkWDxJEIuEk2yiX3vVskjBv36KNW9xLSQdedwa5hW3YyHhgn_i2JltNU2EcgfTFWDSiRw9E5Z5besBklXHrEi4j4u4Eg1khRjXHKvXDYrwzHWfa-Uij3MXio2JMG7pjSBM410OJQ/w400-h300/DSC05529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The garden border isn't the only place to use grasses. Consider containers. While grasses may not overwinter in pots, they add a unique seasonal element to fall displays. <div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgW9QoeAMHelOgPB0dt4ea3-O81Cc79gMc8wqQel-hgA65hiGQ5Rv_zWfOEIdBUrARn8ttkyNoUahFQ8_Fy_tz3pdrPhfIc-0X6S4SHHY3BC6nwxMfe8UAFGDbP_S3QuRxH0zzaJwUw_lslcLXu5hsgzdUHCrJ5OHkl7zsUxuNnh43ud4Dgd-jvdMklag/s640/IMG_4029.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="478" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgW9QoeAMHelOgPB0dt4ea3-O81Cc79gMc8wqQel-hgA65hiGQ5Rv_zWfOEIdBUrARn8ttkyNoUahFQ8_Fy_tz3pdrPhfIc-0X6S4SHHY3BC6nwxMfe8UAFGDbP_S3QuRxH0zzaJwUw_lslcLXu5hsgzdUHCrJ5OHkl7zsUxuNnh43ud4Dgd-jvdMklag/w299-h400/IMG_4029.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the drama the grass adds to the potted evergreen</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Garden designers at Longwood and Ladew Gardens rely on ornamental grasses to provide vertical lines in the garden as well as the arching habit some provide. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYjlcjcjao4kfRvoV16pon3ht0IsPMVdAGWtbTn1l7norpPBCFpIWmbPMyYVicLyKUiVxZmhWqYjod1rtY1BQQYYFwyTWLO-a7PWp1ivYwbZ1SmtOmnSSN_H195yVwxuJVqkKXiMKABhYeJBRccmDF_EynfGh82cDDBWRzaXaKd0Xrk8lJZD0rRs_--o/s640/grasses10.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYjlcjcjao4kfRvoV16pon3ht0IsPMVdAGWtbTn1l7norpPBCFpIWmbPMyYVicLyKUiVxZmhWqYjod1rtY1BQQYYFwyTWLO-a7PWp1ivYwbZ1SmtOmnSSN_H195yVwxuJVqkKXiMKABhYeJBRccmDF_EynfGh82cDDBWRzaXaKd0Xrk8lJZD0rRs_--o/w400-h300/grasses10.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood Gardens added grasses to an already gorgeous display of tropical Bismarkia palms. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqyfjH_iGn4mM1c-yR5U7PHJAv9uxPdMf6g-WxmknIqeDTRlpAm35ICVbfDvbt-w5AnvwfjvZMXTXoPNFs_gJeeiX1ilIXJLo0oYj_KiR_3u60G5BwvDuXyUFGVBCh7gvpz5Q1TRP1cBz0DvSI_-9iSeyNLtl1g1WfIuij6VG7RI3zmJSfTumyv0-wYU/s640/Grasses1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqyfjH_iGn4mM1c-yR5U7PHJAv9uxPdMf6g-WxmknIqeDTRlpAm35ICVbfDvbt-w5AnvwfjvZMXTXoPNFs_gJeeiX1ilIXJLo0oYj_KiR_3u60G5BwvDuXyUFGVBCh7gvpz5Q1TRP1cBz0DvSI_-9iSeyNLtl1g1WfIuij6VG7RI3zmJSfTumyv0-wYU/w400-h269/Grasses1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The early fall Garden Walk is spectacular with the addition of grasses. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Added to an urban landscape, grasses pair well with summer blooming Rudbeckia and Echinacea. Sedums, Rudbeckias, Salvias, Asters, Coreopsis and fall blooming mums are all natural companions in late summer and fall gardens. </div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPhB9j6UbPhFWRnLLIqTRba5oNqBr2K6kDtKfOpfrYcEKJpvNhW98Zwq7VCEnbpMFJEob2bx9WL7FcBd0bn9s59ED3_Rbz3wzOKxZDKXCchDtL33ipFQNRzDquIIZOEh07OBIZhSIVeM195Fpuifv7GHd0N4FxdBsjOqUXdLrhHZxM-8hK-RXqBJrI_Y/s640/DSC_0885.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPhB9j6UbPhFWRnLLIqTRba5oNqBr2K6kDtKfOpfrYcEKJpvNhW98Zwq7VCEnbpMFJEob2bx9WL7FcBd0bn9s59ED3_Rbz3wzOKxZDKXCchDtL33ipFQNRzDquIIZOEh07OBIZhSIVeM195Fpuifv7GHd0N4FxdBsjOqUXdLrhHZxM-8hK-RXqBJrI_Y/w400-h269/DSC_0885.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A welcome oasis in the city<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Ornamental grasses are used in informal gardens and borders, but can just as easily be used in a more formal garden as a background element to sheared shrubs and hedges.<div><br /></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsAj1cQuImHVA3aA_0cFe2NEsiAFD0mmePVtAm5L2i0qru63Yug2LkWrPT7y227Wqariq9G2DojWGZyavtbOinMMmU7FfT3l6E9zLl5IJXYBlKMtSym1pBOU8N28TaIJ008uG0vtfcuhwwwp_xlrdrUEzjSBGLMyAe-W-jdwSKUzeeZ1wdVkZft6MzNqE/s640/DSC01861.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsAj1cQuImHVA3aA_0cFe2NEsiAFD0mmePVtAm5L2i0qru63Yug2LkWrPT7y227Wqariq9G2DojWGZyavtbOinMMmU7FfT3l6E9zLl5IJXYBlKMtSym1pBOU8N28TaIJ008uG0vtfcuhwwwp_xlrdrUEzjSBGLMyAe-W-jdwSKUzeeZ1wdVkZft6MzNqE/w400-h300/DSC01861.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Begonias, cleome and grasses add color to the formal hedge</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Stop in to see our selection of Ornamental Grasses. We have them available from May-September in our Perennial Department. For more information on all of the grasses, go to <a href="http://plants.valleyviewfarms.com/12170010" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Plant Finder</a> on our <a href="http://www.valleyviewfarms.com/" target="_blank">Valley View Farms' website</a>. Check the box for Ornamental Grasses and view the wide assortment that we may carry over the course of the year. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2O_EnrvMmUoi2ZqCRxSQPz861-lsm3SNqLCU0b3gNqKoWeM0EDuPiQyTNRxKPEKwjVDnafWHMvq0EG_ZU-_JvUa0otIRQV-TwaScrmMw0mZttsHpLzzmZbv5U4ql8jaE8MNJzKHOYJpUhuJB-peYxiJTiSgTwNxsmpck7AyZsBiFQItEbCfufmYFCMQs/s640/IMG_1394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2O_EnrvMmUoi2ZqCRxSQPz861-lsm3SNqLCU0b3gNqKoWeM0EDuPiQyTNRxKPEKwjVDnafWHMvq0EG_ZU-_JvUa0otIRQV-TwaScrmMw0mZttsHpLzzmZbv5U4ql8jaE8MNJzKHOYJpUhuJB-peYxiJTiSgTwNxsmpck7AyZsBiFQItEbCfufmYFCMQs/w400-h300/IMG_1394.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Fall garden transitions to Winter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Enjoy the fall garden with the addition of Ornamental Grasses. </div><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-12517207420439536182023-09-02T12:30:00.001-04:002023-09-02T12:30:49.627-04:00Plant of the Week---Mums<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4L5r_LUNZZEODEq4WQtAhK25hkEKmW_BxfEQEOG_xN1l7Okaxjw1jJA-GXzoiQkHyN4G2MRv7qCxo1INK0B7zYB3Yw3sjd9deoo1qnH6K06tBRrvTito-U9Gnny3420LoncVQSHq-wOfCIimqF7w0mSOMF79Z24nkMYeNDlGA0PnM9-6MOwBtVW-oU0/s2896/DSC_0485.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2896" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4L5r_LUNZZEODEq4WQtAhK25hkEKmW_BxfEQEOG_xN1l7Okaxjw1jJA-GXzoiQkHyN4G2MRv7qCxo1INK0B7zYB3Yw3sjd9deoo1qnH6K06tBRrvTito-U9Gnny3420LoncVQSHq-wOfCIimqF7w0mSOMF79Z24nkMYeNDlGA0PnM9-6MOwBtVW-oU0/w355-h269/DSC_0485.JPG" width="355" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bench after bench of fall mums <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>I took a field trip today, visiting other garden centers and the big box stores. It is officially fall in the herbaceous plant world. The celosias from last week's blog were side-by-side mums of many sizes. From small mums in 4" pots to jumbo mums in 12" pots, the fall flowering favorites were in good supply. Naturally, I have a bias and think our growers do an incredible job growing our own mums!<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFFkvEsv3vPEfcFEwUuNBOgrEz3MwfFQN0qtb2EBNAs_70wyNe5JtHPhgxHL4-5NrcTS9dMIUW7-VRWm8-bo3hoTyq7AjEVCFPl4pBlqv8tA4sqnkxoFBTnfwaBmmGJJOsPMy3oxHixeIlV3v-5OSn778qRWkcs40ea2THAalkdjXICuOHKEVe6fja7I/s495/IMG_2058.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="401" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFFkvEsv3vPEfcFEwUuNBOgrEz3MwfFQN0qtb2EBNAs_70wyNe5JtHPhgxHL4-5NrcTS9dMIUW7-VRWm8-bo3hoTyq7AjEVCFPl4pBlqv8tA4sqnkxoFBTnfwaBmmGJJOsPMy3oxHixeIlV3v-5OSn778qRWkcs40ea2THAalkdjXICuOHKEVe6fja7I/w324-h400/IMG_2058.jpeg" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mums soon after planting<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>We've grown mums at the family farm in Hydes, MD for as long as I can remember. Our growing has evolved from producing over 10,000 mums in 8 inch pots to expanding to 10 and 12 inch pots with multiple plants in each pot. We even grow tricolor pots of mums. While plenty of other plants fill our greenhouse and shade-house, mums are undoubtedly still number one in the fall garden. <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcamAN4o6feiNf8pG5YmQeEYB2-tjB5-TGea01y9vv3EKcxV85brCowgBeIwFM0_mFcTEMXrL78yw1VsEOmzUQ60rsPo2Cy29-RX5r2LR_HNDcOoxvJgFjTbBnAjwQKuhs644TvJ_VHjuzYuhE1p0nEQlLjeYs0lzxIwi7bg6xWjOydVMc0CkZtSKDzos/s4032/IMG_7817.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcamAN4o6feiNf8pG5YmQeEYB2-tjB5-TGea01y9vv3EKcxV85brCowgBeIwFM0_mFcTEMXrL78yw1VsEOmzUQ60rsPo2Cy29-RX5r2LR_HNDcOoxvJgFjTbBnAjwQKuhs644TvJ_VHjuzYuhE1p0nEQlLjeYs0lzxIwi7bg6xWjOydVMc0CkZtSKDzos/w300-h400/IMG_7817.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tricolor mixed pots are beautiful<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>We don't necessarily call these mums perennial, though if they were planted in the ground early in the season, their chance of coming back are good. Many of our gardeners use mums like pumpkins as autumn decorations. Purchased when the buds start to crack open, mum flowers will usually last for 6-8 weeks, depending on weather and proper watering. John and Vernon, at our farm, grow over 50 varieties. They get planted on 4 different dates beginning in early June to take advantage of their propensity to bloom early, mid-season, late, or what we call season extenders. There is always a chance with the later mums that a frost may occur. A frost won't kill the plant, but will mar the flowers. Covering the blooms with Harvest Guard or a light sheet overnight will save the blooms. <p></p><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7Rh2OwVlTrLN0n375NyKglsOSkDiS3Xbl2PPvxTN_BuQmFmwSiCwzOipcrqyDFa14Gxwxh7QJm-BvkVzWEcCLN7TSqvuA65zRsaG8HzBFfsYjIyMA2m31Z_bdRvDF-RJCFIPx_lg1BGSQnFiKl6II-dNtJ3bx8ESw8Fj47zZAKOLA5GBR_rUbqCGI9w/s3072/Fall%20mums%20at%20farm%20011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="3072" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7Rh2OwVlTrLN0n375NyKglsOSkDiS3Xbl2PPvxTN_BuQmFmwSiCwzOipcrqyDFa14Gxwxh7QJm-BvkVzWEcCLN7TSqvuA65zRsaG8HzBFfsYjIyMA2m31Z_bdRvDF-RJCFIPx_lg1BGSQnFiKl6II-dNtJ3bx8ESw8Fj47zZAKOLA5GBR_rUbqCGI9w/w400-h300/Fall%20mums%20at%20farm%20011.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: start;">Bright yellow is always popular</div><div style="text-align: start;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>Mums love full sun. In containers, get used to checking them everyday to see if they may need to be watered. A timed-released fertilizer like Osmocote will provide the necessary food to keep the plant healthy and happy through fall. Removing spent blooms keeps the plant pretty well into the fall months. <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0fKYU2t-Oui187YG0Jusy_TX-3UyZW6DCMN81mjMLUXvxMVPiBSFCtNo909w71RM4frfzE6neJ4VTOneJH-_96iV9OzAHV2KdW871JCLjWl1k6KT2eYTAuNXt5SZTU0NbHtUab9yW4oghmwaULpkhYowAefjdPZX-v4f6MWJwq1m-oOq8qrC3ATWKMQ/s2048/DSCF0007.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0fKYU2t-Oui187YG0Jusy_TX-3UyZW6DCMN81mjMLUXvxMVPiBSFCtNo909w71RM4frfzE6neJ4VTOneJH-_96iV9OzAHV2KdW871JCLjWl1k6KT2eYTAuNXt5SZTU0NbHtUab9yW4oghmwaULpkhYowAefjdPZX-v4f6MWJwq1m-oOq8qrC3ATWKMQ/w400-h300/DSCF0007.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the big mums!</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Enjoy the colors of autumn. Refresh summer plantings with mums. </p></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-72382118658166815562023-08-27T10:39:00.002-04:002023-08-27T10:39:34.578-04:00Plant of the Week---Celosia<br /><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-damgGnydnUOXna4ntXQbpk-8-89OCaiF5sgIlc5LYhkvRafv_m25KPdw14B0B9FG4IP_pF9O_hj3Y-VnFSs3-4Fgbe4VloLrIE7p-OL5umtLbc6Umtb3anwcaeiBZOx42lSoD8n80SzNvOVGPNuuoBmi8iYkFJ8xFRPp9FF-Laxyoji0__eMz4ZH7Y/s640/IMG_5122%20celosia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-damgGnydnUOXna4ntXQbpk-8-89OCaiF5sgIlc5LYhkvRafv_m25KPdw14B0B9FG4IP_pF9O_hj3Y-VnFSs3-4Fgbe4VloLrIE7p-OL5umtLbc6Umtb3anwcaeiBZOx42lSoD8n80SzNvOVGPNuuoBmi8iYkFJ8xFRPp9FF-Laxyoji0__eMz4ZH7Y/w400-h300/IMG_5122%20celosia.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celosias in Penn States' annual flower trials in Landisville, PA</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> As summer transitions to fall, Celosias takes the stage as annuals that thrive in hot August temperatures and sustain beautifully unique blooms through October. <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8z-nYYrf8Y0M5eSsf2CtAX77efNz_iCNtqAjK5ngsUqhSfk3U_pKpyfPVRGdFBBi4q2jy4abWfFsSSt1FXAS0cn1aURBRtMqr4qAtWQdY1m2GtRoZQSSvTxZEVOIlbmNYHuTi90bthHzLmuozgp80SfYx3p3VN3JcDRPRgPOX-GcVbXTdAmQludDEBRY/s640/IMG_2624%20celosia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8z-nYYrf8Y0M5eSsf2CtAX77efNz_iCNtqAjK5ngsUqhSfk3U_pKpyfPVRGdFBBi4q2jy4abWfFsSSt1FXAS0cn1aURBRtMqr4qAtWQdY1m2GtRoZQSSvTxZEVOIlbmNYHuTi90bthHzLmuozgp80SfYx3p3VN3JcDRPRgPOX-GcVbXTdAmQludDEBRY/w400-h300/IMG_2624%20celosia.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A plume type celosia introduced at Cultivate, our industry's trade show</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Celosia plumosa has feathery flowers atop robust leaves and stems. Many of them sport fall colors, like yellow and orange, but also have delightful red, purple and pink flowers. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdn2JKudGYOYBjW68YN4PgEnHXilxd5MLmYRkvv1UVaSQ-l_u-nHf7Bj0kacvyHXhnZnTtTzIgA1gnKECNmw8kc_4j76Nk2MkNT2SF7qoimtNuBuzcgUSsnCsPX58TreTDeb_bKeurJKnEQUmoc-TUW7xpeAdgmK78GvQeOTLBxr4v3nT8sYH5Hx-V62s/s640/IMG_0837%20celosia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdn2JKudGYOYBjW68YN4PgEnHXilxd5MLmYRkvv1UVaSQ-l_u-nHf7Bj0kacvyHXhnZnTtTzIgA1gnKECNmw8kc_4j76Nk2MkNT2SF7qoimtNuBuzcgUSsnCsPX58TreTDeb_bKeurJKnEQUmoc-TUW7xpeAdgmK78GvQeOTLBxr4v3nT8sYH5Hx-V62s/w400-h300/IMG_0837%20celosia.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cockscomb in the conservatory at Longwood Gardens</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Celosia argentea var. cristata is know as cockscomb because the flower looks like the comb that tops a rooster. The wavy crest is very distinctive and admired by gardeners for the shape, color and long-blooming qualities. We've had customers ask for the flower that looks like a brain...I see that. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsm9xpePLHbVUZIqFmR6POPxLwAtZGtR8ZWwmmiZjSrdgNELS5Kg3ejHR2ncJ3w9yREzZlKHWfhV6AqEuSE2h8HGK9dd04i5Inkid_J9-UqoLMYciIKgN2pzO6tgt5yWS0gIAz5qd6XyqgnRij5GKOGTAOFnKWyT2geT3lslu26Vx16dLC0I0MkYx2_A/s600/Celosia%20Intenz%20Classic.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsm9xpePLHbVUZIqFmR6POPxLwAtZGtR8ZWwmmiZjSrdgNELS5Kg3ejHR2ncJ3w9yREzZlKHWfhV6AqEuSE2h8HGK9dd04i5Inkid_J9-UqoLMYciIKgN2pzO6tgt5yWS0gIAz5qd6XyqgnRij5GKOGTAOFnKWyT2geT3lslu26Vx16dLC0I0MkYx2_A/w400-h400/Celosia%20Intenz%20Classic.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celosia Intenz grows great in large pots. Consider pairing them with mums for fall. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeO9mAxr0gU2sDXw9tCD8c1SMFA4uNvAMhVip4w0WLVtwh6iIKH64hiRIXT49NnXENazQkePBPf-CKQKuINw3CkeeaRJAPTV8DOcVXktNuxsDu5eFXzIWSw3CSYMPKDJy8lxhsxxXNdFrSipdzHEQf960mtLxtFXiQOP-c6jjTWuQt2-1UI_ioJoDy3M/s600/Celosia%20Intenz%20close-up.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeO9mAxr0gU2sDXw9tCD8c1SMFA4uNvAMhVip4w0WLVtwh6iIKH64hiRIXT49NnXENazQkePBPf-CKQKuINw3CkeeaRJAPTV8DOcVXktNuxsDu5eFXzIWSw3CSYMPKDJy8lxhsxxXNdFrSipdzHEQf960mtLxtFXiQOP-c6jjTWuQt2-1UI_ioJoDy3M/w400-h400/Celosia%20Intenz%20close-up.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up view of Intenz</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Celosia spicata has bold color spikes that bloom freely summer through fall. The Intenz varieties are low maintenance, attractive plants for blooming spring, summer and fall. Like the other varieties of celosia, Intenz is attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftPY0MUahT1ga4_d5OptmEErNiPrQwctmeAhV4ebBbzkGy04aRwCBFuWEM5LlauE_OyabUlgLcvB7R_Wcxd9ZbNBsyoJD-A5PfQ5qPlogOZyqAjhtsCYHMSlpPtvV7aXfCj3n3CaRqac8xXzDOe_Hn_Zjykk8vMQiL3Le8kmanVEUWfZYIcmc4qdIYk0/s640/image001%20celosia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftPY0MUahT1ga4_d5OptmEErNiPrQwctmeAhV4ebBbzkGy04aRwCBFuWEM5LlauE_OyabUlgLcvB7R_Wcxd9ZbNBsyoJD-A5PfQ5qPlogOZyqAjhtsCYHMSlpPtvV7aXfCj3n3CaRqac8xXzDOe_Hn_Zjykk8vMQiL3Le8kmanVEUWfZYIcmc4qdIYk0/w300-h400/image001%20celosia.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celosia Kelos Candela Pink</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>One of my favorite celosias is this newer introduction, Celosia Kelos Candela. Their neon pink flowers bloom atop burgundy and green foliage. The blossoms can be as long as 15 inches! I'm not the only one that loves it; Candela won the prestigious <a href="https://all-americaselections.org/product/celosia-kelos-candela-pink/">All-America Selections Award</a> in 2021. Look through the AAS website as many celosias have performed in gardens across the country well enough to be chosen for an award. </p><p>Celosias do well in pots or in the garden. Heights vary by variety; some grow to just 6 inches, others tower to 3 feet. All do well in full sun. Celosia flowers dry extremely well and hold their color as cut flowers in vases or dried in arrangements. This time of year you may see them with dahlias, sunflowers, grasses and mums in floral displays at the farmers markets in our region. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LgMS3GBIKL3YCIFx0m2_K3BXR48xU3PbN9lxqlQWZwB8THMPxHSc6KfcPKRa3T-Hy4Nyr2F_sJ92XKGPxHjxzdJBzl14ApjCBOq_vZYyjRCTf-dmV1zbCOUj9wSRpnyCn4iGWhRdm0r7jiHWTCF3PHOb4CfyLnqkkLz8p684wPeDcV2-tzTrDl0C1V8/s640/image002%20celosia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2YMEZqwWO5M5QARR7Td7Aq32TG8ifiFsG89gRCj9Uop3vPjytGzFXCdXtTWO3KGLbB1WrBR9V22Ng3c2TBx1uIQEM4BcGVMboL18FzTlK36QDBlEb9nSa-Mhz0iOnose3eIxL6gEHUCYStvFmiMzuB5ntDuPqKnUQxaqCSm5HOSMDGWnnoE4Oy7GIMQ/s640/image003%20celosia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2YMEZqwWO5M5QARR7Td7Aq32TG8ifiFsG89gRCj9Uop3vPjytGzFXCdXtTWO3KGLbB1WrBR9V22Ng3c2TBx1uIQEM4BcGVMboL18FzTlK36QDBlEb9nSa-Mhz0iOnose3eIxL6gEHUCYStvFmiMzuB5ntDuPqKnUQxaqCSm5HOSMDGWnnoE4Oy7GIMQ/w300-h400/image003%20celosia.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed pot with ornamental peppers, creeping Jenny and ornamental cabbage</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: left;">Take a peek at the video below to see butterflies enjoying the celosia blooms. </span></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qSeMm2RMnXg" width="320" youtube-src-id="qSeMm2RMnXg"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-41132511535076044662023-08-14T09:48:00.003-04:002023-08-14T09:52:57.276-04:00Plant of the Week---Rudbeckia <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaPzGiip72-uPFqIDz0RU0n4_CKZKiVwji4ZGxDAFiUXqiuNqrjfR5vo0JULwEfOMAqsV_2eg9zb_zOQ2LW8Tpb_ULh9EC_r4-AUPiQDKmkKxI_crRkd1VhdWkKLdzrRMWcm_QYjPCGJ_7wS7C4NVoeMQWVp3A8uQadkNkKRZmf-11H5r5XGUgMDRZ9M/s640/IMG_7724.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaPzGiip72-uPFqIDz0RU0n4_CKZKiVwji4ZGxDAFiUXqiuNqrjfR5vo0JULwEfOMAqsV_2eg9zb_zOQ2LW8Tpb_ULh9EC_r4-AUPiQDKmkKxI_crRkd1VhdWkKLdzrRMWcm_QYjPCGJ_7wS7C4NVoeMQWVp3A8uQadkNkKRZmf-11H5r5XGUgMDRZ9M/w400-h300/IMG_7724.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black-eyed Susans</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Rudbeckias are one of the most beloved perennials in the country. As Maryland's state flower, the Rudbeckia hirta is very popular in our state. It has been our 'Floral Emblem' as designated by the Maryland General Assembly since 1918. Rudbeckia was named by Swedish horticulturist Carl Linnaeus after Olav Rudbeck and his son, both professors at the University of Uppsala.<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrbCTt7TfjwNY9JspOUdqZmksekdsXqXGG__YuQi65VL8OG6Rrk54P6HwqPcMbRDyUJ3H7zyaqFpo1tv0RHRjXrrStu2ZJG9o3E_07tXxnvXVbLu59eLDXU9WQTUT-j0N6PMxaBn2nP5I9zY1tgy5o9cKKmJEOzHTGdY3dQ6jdxvyBYSCEmthp-QGX5s/s640/IMG_1933.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrbCTt7TfjwNY9JspOUdqZmksekdsXqXGG__YuQi65VL8OG6Rrk54P6HwqPcMbRDyUJ3H7zyaqFpo1tv0RHRjXrrStu2ZJG9o3E_07tXxnvXVbLu59eLDXU9WQTUT-j0N6PMxaBn2nP5I9zY1tgy5o9cKKmJEOzHTGdY3dQ6jdxvyBYSCEmthp-QGX5s/w400-h268/IMG_1933.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudbeckia growing in a mixed border</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The National Gardening Bureau named 2023 the <a href="https://ngb.org/year-of-the-rudbeckia/" target="_blank">Year of the Rudbeckia</a>. So chosen for its summer longevity and durability, Rudbeckia thrives across most of the continental U S. Many varieties of Rudbeckia are sold in our garden center for their beauty and ease of growth. The aforementioned Rudbeckia hirta is a biennial or short-lived perennial that easily reseeds in Maryland. Several cultivars of hirta are longer lived.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8D-moL3JpkCALzuR8Pe_QSvVRDLIs499TJNO3-56Ey4G87XjGOn0M0-4CJDNpy9ZupBaAyb0lFPVZYnKQVEfz8ZmJb21oqUyFN2OzkxG_6AQB2Gm7dUMSWmBtQNM2z4Gdf-sqKnXl87Uq0uoHfVJwYhPtGibbkjKXivbIt1unzTfAwkClnziqv27AkdI/s640/IMG_0669.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8D-moL3JpkCALzuR8Pe_QSvVRDLIs499TJNO3-56Ey4G87XjGOn0M0-4CJDNpy9ZupBaAyb0lFPVZYnKQVEfz8ZmJb21oqUyFN2OzkxG_6AQB2Gm7dUMSWmBtQNM2z4Gdf-sqKnXl87Uq0uoHfVJwYhPtGibbkjKXivbIt1unzTfAwkClnziqv27AkdI/w300-h400/IMG_0669.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Rudbeckia fulgida is the best known of the Rudbeckia species. 'Goldsturm' was the Perennial Plant of the Year in 1999; 'American Gold Rush' is this year's pick by the same group. 'American Gold Rush' is also an <a href="https://all-americaselections.org" target="_blank">AAS</a> winner. Another popular fulgida is 'Little Goldstar', a variety that grows about knee high compared to the others that grow 2-3 feet high. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1O3__Pl-6rgWkYXYNuxuGUHz2z0-8nyI_M6UpSgpwcDYAmjYOXIwTDCybA7ldB0ti78MCqfpX8ukvw2JmRzxuboEpdlbGZb_GDqdvXswlF--tXKm5t-GW4fiwp17IJLiFTlJXYMWr2R35-hdSyFkg1_Z2KGjYMjSl4jmbcjNbRwoEFCwp2eBvD_uZYGI/s1280/71362940976__075A0A27-D058-4453-AC14-5AC112ADE1A5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1280" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1O3__Pl-6rgWkYXYNuxuGUHz2z0-8nyI_M6UpSgpwcDYAmjYOXIwTDCybA7ldB0ti78MCqfpX8ukvw2JmRzxuboEpdlbGZb_GDqdvXswlF--tXKm5t-GW4fiwp17IJLiFTlJXYMWr2R35-hdSyFkg1_Z2KGjYMjSl4jmbcjNbRwoEFCwp2eBvD_uZYGI/s320/71362940976__075A0A27-D058-4453-AC14-5AC112ADE1A5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Rudbeckias love full sun, well-drained soil and thrive planted in large masses or in a mixed border. Great cut-flowers, Black-eyed Susans are also wonderful pollinator attractors in the garden. They also provide food for birds long past blooming season. Do not cut back spent flowers as the seed heads will provide birds with food through much of the winter.<br /><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt-gavc415iPzD5--pDegNPQa0ta2pwlJaZD3OzngrbX7PB46pdCNbaxfew4uELNQDGvJlVj-ayJUz1vUuyhaan-eN0LHebvUDPfD33m7Ebj7HJaCWCDnaAW_QrlLb4foRhGpQsLdILynxMumuoTpdSb_cvLKtDsqhXXbCdcTEwKDz5h_m5qR6NGmluU/s640/IMG_4708.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt-gavc415iPzD5--pDegNPQa0ta2pwlJaZD3OzngrbX7PB46pdCNbaxfew4uELNQDGvJlVj-ayJUz1vUuyhaan-eN0LHebvUDPfD33m7Ebj7HJaCWCDnaAW_QrlLb4foRhGpQsLdILynxMumuoTpdSb_cvLKtDsqhXXbCdcTEwKDz5h_m5qR6NGmluU/w300-h400/IMG_4708.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudbeckia maxima can grow up to 8 feet<br /><br /><span style="text-align: left;">The flower forms differ a bit between varieties. Echinacea crosses have appeared marketed under the name Echibeckia. New varieties at trade shows and at our trial gardens include a new Sunbeckia series as well.<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOWnF5TDu7EbG2q5YeoaBC0mwoT-kVJ9nPbcczaVJTzCc3y3NMl3AYiDGPVyRGXyNJdGgRxkXCtTpp3X3LzHxiNRqnoJpB_AbDJqs0-I0FAyYZM6x2TKQQ8wst8oXfxD3LI3PmSnM6CrwyyKf8Iz9Ex4nQ7lBZCCk_kEzECUX7LcG64yoTRDgXAQuctM/s640/IMG_4953.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOWnF5TDu7EbG2q5YeoaBC0mwoT-kVJ9nPbcczaVJTzCc3y3NMl3AYiDGPVyRGXyNJdGgRxkXCtTpp3X3LzHxiNRqnoJpB_AbDJqs0-I0FAyYZM6x2TKQQ8wst8oXfxD3LI3PmSnM6CrwyyKf8Iz9Ex4nQ7lBZCCk_kEzECUX7LcG64yoTRDgXAQuctM/w300-h400/IMG_4953.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trade Show Temptations<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Look for the incredible selection of perennial Rudbeckias in our Sun-Loving Perennial aisles at Valley View Farms. Ask us about our favorites. And check in our Annual shade house for less hardy varieties. <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbspgPxZabQP8UiXPA_FkbBpvpwkOFNnoLeF8M1P768PBYRRj79NQjrW0japb3oNGec6uc-pRyUGauD0a4SSdvjytZQF-HT8Sc_Wq5bV_xq9cZT9RSnE4sCrzfVY9ovxAuvk-Pcn6ghovuiB80Uex6-MUr_gbyquTOH4y0G70V8QB0004Y3lo_F7_p9I/s1512/71362943294__575E878B-9AE2-4E54-A33C-0DF8249FF6A7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1169" data-original-width="1512" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbspgPxZabQP8UiXPA_FkbBpvpwkOFNnoLeF8M1P768PBYRRj79NQjrW0japb3oNGec6uc-pRyUGauD0a4SSdvjytZQF-HT8Sc_Wq5bV_xq9cZT9RSnE4sCrzfVY9ovxAuvk-Pcn6ghovuiB80Uex6-MUr_gbyquTOH4y0G70V8QB0004Y3lo_F7_p9I/w400-h309/71362943294__575E878B-9AE2-4E54-A33C-0DF8249FF6A7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visit our Sunny Perennial Aisle at Valley View Farms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-81622137217936417932023-08-08T11:34:00.003-04:002023-08-08T21:14:06.631-04:00Plant of the Week---Crape Myrtle<p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vSK85Ik-hfMXIPy8bKj_kW0ijNmMDWhM5t3bA5oitOISLoLlKKenwbt1UMkDyS9h39Ty4zl4vKXxowB7XLnIJIIhS-KOsQDNxih75NgjB6RrkfGZD4Xrj49OZSYr7HibOE1yIZb5xY2bBToMY6hKZjn7WwI0qYaibBgOIjJUovdeTOx4IgHKSxN7-Zs/s4032/128788C9-4200-49C1-8023-08CC20F1E1F0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vSK85Ik-hfMXIPy8bKj_kW0ijNmMDWhM5t3bA5oitOISLoLlKKenwbt1UMkDyS9h39Ty4zl4vKXxowB7XLnIJIIhS-KOsQDNxih75NgjB6RrkfGZD4Xrj49OZSYr7HibOE1yIZb5xY2bBToMY6hKZjn7WwI0qYaibBgOIjJUovdeTOx4IgHKSxN7-Zs/w400-h300/128788C9-4200-49C1-8023-08CC20F1E1F0.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>The Crape Myrtle has taken over in our region as summer's blooming tree. Once considered a strictly southern tree, Crape Myrtles, <i>Lagerstroemia</i>, have worked their way into Maryland's USDA Zone 7 transitional hardiness zones. Breeding for better hardiness, including disease tolerance, has made this smaller tree a regional favorite. Our National Arboretum is responsible for much of the hybridization that has improved the Myrtle. Dr. John Creech introduced plants from a colder site in Japan that crossed the indica species with the fauriei species, responsible for so many new introductions over recent years.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXWSrW0ZfTuhRjSOJe5lHLXiWSv0Np94F1ZuhEVevaPDKhCw9yZlY0N7MRER2Nlb7yP6fCVoso5D1LPAmgUehpOvCaaWVTxj0J5ZkSdrvexvXZqFQUcX7wJdozva01r666yPWyn_NPix9Fp4MvDNEVyvchQ-VxwAXhy9FwPSTlO7RW_JewR7G7QJFXKQ/s4032/4AEFACF2-A256-4203-A363-1C58D34EA023.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXWSrW0ZfTuhRjSOJe5lHLXiWSv0Np94F1ZuhEVevaPDKhCw9yZlY0N7MRER2Nlb7yP6fCVoso5D1LPAmgUehpOvCaaWVTxj0J5ZkSdrvexvXZqFQUcX7wJdozva01r666yPWyn_NPix9Fp4MvDNEVyvchQ-VxwAXhy9FwPSTlO7RW_JewR7G7QJFXKQ/w400-h300/4AEFACF2-A256-4203-A363-1C58D34EA023.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Mottled gray and tan bark adds interest to the already beautiful tree with large panicle flowers in colors like purple, pink, red and white. Crape Myrtles also feature great fall color as the small leaves turn shades of gold and red in autumn.</p><p>Crape Myrtles do well in clay soil with slightly acidic pH. They prefer full sun for flowering; my dwarf Crape Myrtles struggle to bloom in a lightly shaded area. Water frequently when installed for the first year or so. They become drought tolerant once the roots are well established.</p><p>Suckers often grow from the base off the trees. Prune them as they appear. The tree requires only light pruning in the early spring. Crape Myrtles will begin to bloom in July in our mid-Atlantic region.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD_V_Yn0hqs2VNu99mcRYdmGPCrJAdJY3dIQPf3X1DOnkEAGs3S7vDi6j4-B2B5TXLN44V4kigY3jyG-a97drNGLR_-0nm4KsLsAqN1MvKURKcEIJncPRCTGIQ7Bnu2MOnV14BwIwOCPxAob2o3ilELSmiPVO7c3XiVvUT-wm8ej-AuL2BQWoitIgenE/s4032/ED2B4522-3EC8-49FD-AA10-B373D429A079.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD_V_Yn0hqs2VNu99mcRYdmGPCrJAdJY3dIQPf3X1DOnkEAGs3S7vDi6j4-B2B5TXLN44V4kigY3jyG-a97drNGLR_-0nm4KsLsAqN1MvKURKcEIJncPRCTGIQ7Bnu2MOnV14BwIwOCPxAob2o3ilELSmiPVO7c3XiVvUT-wm8ej-AuL2BQWoitIgenE/w400-h300/ED2B4522-3EC8-49FD-AA10-B373D429A079.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Use as a specimen tree as my neighbor has at his driveway's entrance, or in mass plantings as I've seen in area city scapes and parking areas. Small Crape Myrtles can also be used in container plantings, though they may need protection from winter's freezing temperatures. <p></p><p>For more information on Crape Myrtles, visit <a href="http://www.southernliving.com/garden/crepe-myrtle-trees" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Southern Living</a>'s website. Steve Bender, aka, The Grumpy Gardener, provides great tips for caring for this southern favorite that has migrated north to Maryland. </p><p>Visit out nursery for a close look at the various heights, shapes, foliage and flower color of the many Crape Myrtles we carry. Click on the Plant Finder tab located on out <a href="http://valleyviewfarms.com" target="_blank">Valley View Farms</a> website for descriptions, photos, and more cultural information.</p><p>Enjoy Maryland's favorite summer flowering tree. You will seem them everywhere!</p>Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5166470136513796416.post-15526348838980085132023-08-01T10:05:00.002-04:002023-08-01T10:05:27.809-04:00Plant of the Week---Water Lily<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzY50A1J5mMHMPZpJFJb5mqRQzLoa7OSSsRPSfb4uRCb-nkHpI1GlaWzEx7J4GXRbSCAK6T8nU7ZtPGzZXuzDHFWBa7w8zBZ94mWv4sG6_RMRsxb8SUzE7a1asYvUcI8Z9XIq6UN2zOMcWG2nbSQK1HZihZVJk_MDR-koKKjn-gSRtNq5SqL7qOY7Mus/s1083/6AF90ADD-7678-4B47-A4D2-C45CFF0B1F7F_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="1083" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzY50A1J5mMHMPZpJFJb5mqRQzLoa7OSSsRPSfb4uRCb-nkHpI1GlaWzEx7J4GXRbSCAK6T8nU7ZtPGzZXuzDHFWBa7w8zBZ94mWv4sG6_RMRsxb8SUzE7a1asYvUcI8Z9XIq6UN2zOMcWG2nbSQK1HZihZVJk_MDR-koKKjn-gSRtNq5SqL7qOY7Mus/w400-h268/6AF90ADD-7678-4B47-A4D2-C45CFF0B1F7F_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> The water lily is the undisputed Queen of the Water Garden. Its beauty takes center stage to of the other plants in the pond or water garden. But its function in the water is more than providing a pretty face. The water lily's large leaves shade the pond, its roots and leaves help to keep the water clear. Hardy water lilies will overwinter in our ponds while tropical lilies bloom in the summer.<p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWFpmiwqk0rnQLS8IH5PmOa8Lxi-854PCiSZoTFXIqIBka9tBiRM6NwsnDdaWtbehc9PfqVrdeTDKc4XrAB5LGb6WO7rPE_x8CqZV1aWU7r9AZskEYd43wL04NycqUy9dFnAH8CqKjaPPJl5Ioj1TIB15AAenb2MZAIzrFbDLsDF9IWbnh-mVUm59wjE/s1083/03DEF904-01B1-4B52-B82D-BCF594BB1D6A_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="1083" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWFpmiwqk0rnQLS8IH5PmOa8Lxi-854PCiSZoTFXIqIBka9tBiRM6NwsnDdaWtbehc9PfqVrdeTDKc4XrAB5LGb6WO7rPE_x8CqZV1aWU7r9AZskEYd43wL04NycqUy9dFnAH8CqKjaPPJl5Ioj1TIB15AAenb2MZAIzrFbDLsDF9IWbnh-mVUm59wjE/w400-h268/03DEF904-01B1-4B52-B82D-BCF594BB1D6A_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span>Pond depths from 18-24" will give way to a planting depth of 10-16", allowing pots to be 8" deep with soil to for the lilies. Smaller plants can be lifted by using bricks in the pond. </span></p><p><span>Check in with our water garden department for information about plants and pond health. We also provide seminars on water garden installation and pond care through the season. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9gQAzKF3YL0VZVYGvU2F1uYHeJS3ici6fZn4JwnL2WTFShrBCMyFZi9iOWn2JWVJfapgRg8903UN7odZoEQfTOIfIqlei14X0BGnSfLcsCW5OvM2eNyyG22XhDkeGLBCGNP3lz27R0uq3CmvGI0iTR9iWqveGrYgfh1psHYHng5Iwe57KDmU-u5Op3I/s640/IMG_2559.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9gQAzKF3YL0VZVYGvU2F1uYHeJS3ici6fZn4JwnL2WTFShrBCMyFZi9iOWn2JWVJfapgRg8903UN7odZoEQfTOIfIqlei14X0BGnSfLcsCW5OvM2eNyyG22XhDkeGLBCGNP3lz27R0uq3CmvGI0iTR9iWqveGrYgfh1psHYHng5Iwe57KDmU-u5Op3I/w400-h300/IMG_2559.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valley View Farms' Nick with WBAL's Ava Marie </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span><br /></span><p></p><p><span><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAfzP8tw3mAPtVMZLIoS-wNI0wnAO3H6HsDTlMyrsBOKztEUySwVls6CzM4im3X67KRFwuFFF8UQRFQCoCxD_vWBwqBTU2I33CKyRRr7QYZw5-YgrjFCTLWzycN2wYcsmsSuKYPyMmVi2FYoWTQK2tH_eQKie6S03Lf20TaFDMtq94iRESRZVIfRM844/s1084/0D58514C-8BAD-4B6D-BEAE-4A55E789A440_1_105_c.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="1084" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAfzP8tw3mAPtVMZLIoS-wNI0wnAO3H6HsDTlMyrsBOKztEUySwVls6CzM4im3X67KRFwuFFF8UQRFQCoCxD_vWBwqBTU2I33CKyRRr7QYZw5-YgrjFCTLWzycN2wYcsmsSuKYPyMmVi2FYoWTQK2tH_eQKie6S03Lf20TaFDMtq94iRESRZVIfRM844/w400-h268/0D58514C-8BAD-4B6D-BEAE-4A55E789A440_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEdL7s-P7Rw39AqMD55gDmNBqASM3-E7kIZWU4qR8h0HwZIHhOGjDeBtBdzzPc4pinYB3GRoqqanSFE3lVi--6ZsRzkJs-hrTyXefd0JwHww_oWuC5e9dPVrKGzWhgVrt-cFco-eEgrA_1fZ2sgDWiiddrh8glpKRY1tLA5-pdFs9fHpoqtvwHOW_CUw/s1083/EB9248AB-F502-4C60-9E0D-CBCE10668B04_1_105_c.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="1083" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEdL7s-P7Rw39AqMD55gDmNBqASM3-E7kIZWU4qR8h0HwZIHhOGjDeBtBdzzPc4pinYB3GRoqqanSFE3lVi--6ZsRzkJs-hrTyXefd0JwHww_oWuC5e9dPVrKGzWhgVrt-cFco-eEgrA_1fZ2sgDWiiddrh8glpKRY1tLA5-pdFs9fHpoqtvwHOW_CUw/w400-h268/EB9248AB-F502-4C60-9E0D-CBCE10668B04_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Valley View Farms Garden Center and Nurseryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118735328055343127noreply@blogger.com0