Hibiscus Section MuenchhusiaWhen a plant genus is large, botanists will sometimes divide the genus into sections, which are smaller groups of similar species. Hibiscus is one genus that has been divided into several sections. One of these sections is the section Muenchhusia.
Hibiscuses of the Continental United StatesMany people are familiar with our native Hibiscus moscheutos. It is the source of many of the cultivars sold as Hardy Hibiscus, but there are many other species that grow here in the United States. Here is a look at the species that grow wild in the Continental United States.
Using Organza Bags in the GardenIn the past I have encountered several problems when it comes to saving seed. This year I was able to solve all of these problems with the use of organza bags.
Texas OrchidsWhen you think of orchids, you probably think of the tropical variety. They are often found in “big box” store garden centers or used in corsages. But there are 25,000 to 30,000 species of orchids in the world, and at least 10,000 of these grow in the tropics. Orchids have been found on every continent except Antarctica. There are even a few species that grow above the Arctic Circle.
Fun with PVC: Pedestals, Beyond the Basic.PVC is inexpensive and easy to work with, which makes it great for garden projects. In this article I will show some ways of creating new pedestals using the original pattern.
Fun with PVC: Basic PedestalsPVC is inexpensive and easy to work with, which makes it great for garden projects. This article will look at basic pedestal ideas.
Planters from Stumps and LogsInstead of going through the hassle of removing a stump, use it as a planter. Chop out a cavity in the top of the stump, fill with soil, and plant a cascading plant in it. Old logs can be moved to your gardening area and planted as well.
Plant Red Flowers for the HummingbirdsHummingbirds are highly attracted to the color red, which is why their feeders usually have red on them. See how many ways you can add red to your garden. Plant red flowers and paint a bird house or feeder red. How about painting flower pots red and using red in your garden art? Even wearing red clothing when working in the yard will attract them. The more red you can use, the better chance of catching the attention of a passing hummer.
Use Soda Bottles for PotsUse the bottom of soft drink and water bottles as cheap pots to start seed and cuttings. Just remove the label, cut off the bottom, and punch a few holes for drainage. For seed I usually cut them about 4 inches high and for cuttings that need to be stuck deeper I cut them much taller.
Little Greenhouse on the PorchAn old aquarium makes a great greenhouse for cuttings. Plant cuttings in small containers, water, and place in a shady area. Now turn the aquarium upside-down over the cuttings. The aquarium helps hold the humidity in.
Old Mini Blinds Make Great Plant MarkersOld mini blinds make great plant markers. "Permanent" markers tend to fade in the weather, so use a pencil; it will last much longer and can be erased to reuse.
