Easy Gardening Tips | Guide |

When you want to relax in your garden, planning next year's activities, remember the five areas to consider as described below:

1. The overall maintenance needed or desired. One must not become a slave to their garden but instead the master. A decision at this point of your garden planning determines the steps necessary to achieve your high or low-maintenance garden/landscape objective.

2. Pest Control is one of my minor favorite parts of gardening because it puts one into a position of having to decide whether to control pests by using natural predators or harsh chemical sprays. I hate using harsh chemicals in my garden, and the many suggestions derived from 'old wives tales,' etc., are not that successful at best. The most successful I have encountered in controlling pests are natural predators such as ladybugs or praying mantes. Birds are also helpful. However, they can be a two-edged sword; they control the pests and later become a nuisance.

3. If you are starting in a bare landscape/garden, now is the time to make the proper selection of plants and their needs for water, sunlight, or shade. For example, you would not mix plants that require extensive watering with those that thrive in an arid climate. Also, consider them invasive species; if so, how can one control them? Another aspect of plant selection is the compatibility of the plants with one another. A little tip that will save heartache in the future check plant allelopathy for guidance to plant compatibility.

TN Nursery offers descriptions and care requirements for our bare root plants and trees. 

4. How often have you heard the adage, healthy soil, healthy plants? Healthy plants are less prone to diseases, attract fewer insect pests, and require less water to maintain their health status. What does that mean to you, the gardener, FEED THE SOIL? Has your soil checked for nutrients or just the pH? Many of your local nurseries perform these services. The test results will reveal what minerals or nutrients your soil is lacking, and these missing items are amended to your soil. To keep your soil healthy, adding organic compost on a regular schedule is a simple matter. When adding nutrients to your soil, make sure to use organic fertilizers instead of synthetic fertilizers, which can destroy the beneficial organisms and organic matter within the soil.

5. Remember, remember only try to use organic fertilizers. Synthetic fertilizers are only a quick fix, and your garden will start needing them regularly. It becomes addicted, requiring more and more as time goes on.

These areas I consider a significant element requiring good planning to develop or maintain a garden/landscape that is easy to maintain, offering more significant moments of tranquility to enjoy the fruits of one's labor.

I find it fascinating to watch a seedling take birth, break through the soil, and eventually become a mature plant giving us many enjoyable moments in life.

Source of Information and to Buy Plants for Easy Gardening: https://www.tnnursery.net

Hepatica - TN Nursery

Hepatica Plant

Hepatica Plant - Acutiloba Americana Hepatica is an attractive perennial wildflower that blooms early in the spring and needs little attention. Ideal for woodland gardens or shady spaces, it adds sophistication and unobtrusive beauty to naturalized landscapes. Ease of Planting and Maintenance For the Hepatica  It is extremely easy to plant and maintain, which makes it a fabulous plant for any beginner gardener. It is preferentially shade-tolerant, preferring humus-rich, well-drained soil. Sow by loosening the soil, burying the roots just below the surface, covering the plant lightly with soil, and watering thoroughly. It needs minimal upkeep once planted, aside from occasional irrigation when dry and incorporating organic mulch to keep moisture in and enrich the soil. Seasonal Blooms and Color Early in the spring, the flowers are often seen before other plants come into bloom from their winter slumber. Its little star-shaped flowers, which vary in color from white and pale pink to lavender and blue, provide an attractive splash of color. The blooms last several weeks and are followed by shiny, lobed green leaves that recur throughout the growing season. The foliage can turn bronze or red in autumn before dying back for the winter. Shape and Longevity  It spreads in dense clumps and grows 6-12 inches tall, making it suitable for borders, rock gardens, or woodland ground cover. As a perennial, it blooms year after year and brings long-lasting beautification with very little work. Hepatica is carefully planted and shipped at TN Nursery as healthy, bare-root specimens ready for planting. These hardy plants spread quickly, giving you magical flowers and leaves season after season. Plant It in your garden and be sure of its timeless appeal for years!

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Blazing Star Plant - TN Nursery

Blazing Star Liatris

Blazing Star: Liatris Blazing Star, or Liatris, is a perennial wildflower that's pretty and surprisingly easy to care for. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a newbie looking to try something new, these striking plants bring vibrant color and vertical interest to any yard. Over the years, I've discovered how these spiky beauties can transform a dull corner of my garden into a lively space buzzing with life. In this article, we'll dive into the best tips for growing and caring for the plant and explore the varieties that can flourish in your outdoor sanctuary. Scientifically known as Liatris, this perennial wildflower is recognized for its striking spiky flower heads that bloom from July into late fall. To care for the plant, ensure it receives full sun, thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and is watered thoroughly after planting; once established, it demonstrates good drought tolerance. Liatris Blazing Star Is a Taller Perennial Known scientifically as Liatris spicata, it is more than just a wildflower- it's an enchanting addition to any garden. This perennial marvel is revered for its distinctive spiky flower heads that create vertical interest, reaching heights up to 3-4 feet. When planted in groups, these spikes become striking accents that can transform an ordinary landscape into a vibrant spectacle. What makes it particularly special is its impressive blooming period. Typically, it showcases a stunning display from July into late fall. During this time, you'll witness an explosion of colors ranging from deep purple to crisp white, depending on the variety. Imagine a backdrop of lush greenery juxtaposed with these colorful spikes, drawing in bees and butterflies-nature's own pollinators enjoying the thriving ecosystem you've nurtured. Caring for the plants involves understanding their basic needs to ensure they thrive. They require full sun to flourish, reflecting their roots in native prairie habitats. Well-drained, slightly acidic soil is ideal; clay or overly rich soils can retain too much moisture, leading to root rot. In my experience as a gardener, I've learned that amending heavy soils with perlite or sand helps improve drainage without disturbing roots. "For best results, provide them with thorough watering after planting and during hot months. They adapt remarkably well once established and exhibit drought tolerance." It's important to note that not all plants are created equal. Different varieties may bloom at varying times throughout summer and into fall. Understanding which types adapt best to your specific climate and soil will go a long way toward creating a flourishing environment filled with color and life. My journey with these plants has revealed how well they complement other garden perennials. Their unique shapes and colors can breathe life into any floral arrangement, inviting admiration from passersby or visitors alike. Considering what makes this remarkable plant stand out, it's equally important to explore the array of choices available within this captivating family. Blazing Star Liatris Diverse Varieties and Species You'll find an array of unique varieties, each offering distinct characteristics that can cater to various garden aesthetics and climates. For instance, Liatris spicata, often called the dense plant, stands taller at 2 to 4 feet, showcasing its beautiful purple spikes during mid to late summer. Its performance in attracting butterflies makes it a pleasure for the eyes and beneficial for local pollinators. The adaptability of this species across USDA zones 3 to 9 speaks volumes about its resilience. Yet, perhaps one of the most remarkable varieties is Liatris novae-angliae, especially for gardeners in the northeastern United States. This resilient cultivar flourishes even in sandy soils, ensuring proper drainage while delivering striking purple spikes that make any garden stand out. Its ability to thrive in low-maintenance settings resonates well with both novice and seasoned gardeners alike. Beyond these standout species, consider some popular cultivars like the 'Kobold', a compact variant renowned for its deep-purple flower heads. At around 18 inches tall, it's ideal for smaller spaces or container gardening. Additionally, the tall 'Floristan White' and 'Floristan Violett' are known for their robust structures, reaching impressive heights of up to three feet with blooms commencing in July. As you explore these vibrant varieties, remember that each carries its own charm and growing requirements. Once you've selected based on preferences and environmental conditions, you'll be ready to explore how best to nurture them into healthy plants flourishing in your garden. Ideal Growing Conditions These plants are beautiful when grown in conditions that mimic their natural prairie habitats. These wildflowers flourish with the right combination of sunlight, soil composition, and moisture levels. It's as if they are telling you exactly what they need, so listen carefully! When these plants are placed in an environment where they can truly thrive, they will reward you with stunning spikes of color from summer into early fall. Sunlight and Soil Needs For optimum growth, plant it in full sunlight. It flourishes best when soaking up a generous 6 to 8 hours of natural sun each day. Although it has some tolerance for partial shade, note that reduced sunlight can limit its flowering potential. If you're looking for those vibrant blooms to shine in your garden, don't skimp on the sunshine! According to reputable sources, including USDA guidelines, it is hardy across zones 3 to 9. This wide growth range means you have plenty of options depending on your location and climate. Once you find the right lighting, focusing on soil conditions is equally crucial. Liatris prefers well-drained, slightly acerbic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5, mirroring the sandy plains of its native habitat. Heavy clay or overly rich soils should be avoided; too much moisture can suffocate their roots and lead to a fate no plant deserves! By incorporating sand or perlite into your planting mix, consider improving drainage if your soil profile isn't ideal. This simple amendment can distinguish between a flourishing plant and one that struggles. With optimal sunlight and suitable soil established, attention now turns to the watering techniques essential for nurturing healthy plants in your garden. Landscaping  It brings vibrant colors and unique textures, making it a fantastic addition to any garden landscape. When planted thoughtfully, they can serve as key focal points that draw the eye. Their tall stature-often reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet create vertical interest that stands out against lower-growing plants. These beauties thrive when surrounded by other hardy perennials, creating a dynamic tapestry of color and form. You might consider placing them centrally in flower beds or lining them along pathways for an impressive pop of color that greets visitors. They also work wonderfully in border gardens where their spikes can emphasize a transition from one garden space to another. By integrating them into wildflower meadows, you enhance the natural beauty and support local ecosystems. Imagine the scene: rich purple spikes standing tall among golden Black-eyed Susans and vibrant pink Echinaceas- a feast for both the eyes and helpful pollinators. For optimal visual impact, pairing it with native perennials such as Bee Balm (Monarda) or ornamental grasses can create a harmonious look. The soft hues of grasses contrast effectively with the boldness of the flower spikes, while Bee Balm attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, further enriching your garden's dynamic. In my garden experience, I've discovered how gorgeous it looks alongside taller ornamental grasses. This arrangement mimics the serene prairie landscapes where these plants thrive-with blades gently swaying in the wind, casting dappled shadows beneath their spiky heads. These perennial flowers support wildlife, especially beloved pollinators like butterflies and bees. The flowers bloom at a time when food sources may be scarce, providing sustenance during crucial growing periods. By cultivating it in your landscape, you're creating beauty and a sanctuary for local wildlife. It is more than just an eye-catching flower in your garden; it's a true haven for wildlife. Research shows that these striking plants, with their spiky purple or white flower spikes, are a magnet for pollinators. A study by the Xerces Society reveals that plant attracts over 20 species of butterflies and bees, making it an essential source of nourishment for many beneficial insects. Monarch butterflies are particularly fond of it, as they rely on these blooms for nectar during their arduous migration. Imagine witnessing clusters of vibrant butterflies flitting around your garden, drawn to the field of shimmering flowers. This natural spectacle reminds us of the intricate connections within ecosystems and emphasizes why planting it is a beautiful way to contribute to local wildlife habitats. Consider planting it in clusters if you want to enhance this effect further. These groupings make the blossoms more noticeable and accessible to pollinators who might otherwise overlook solitary blooms scattered throughout your landscape. Moreover, the deep roots of it play an important role in maintaining soil health. They assist to prevent erosion and improve soil structure, benefitting the surrounding ecosystem by promoting stability and nutrient-rich ground. This is especially crucial in areas prone to soil runoff or sparse vegetation. To truly appreciate how beneficial these plants can be, it's essential to recognize their positive contributions not only visually but also ecologically. By cultivating thriving plants, you're creating rich environments that support diverse wildlife populations, while setting the stage for practical strategies on how to care for your garden effectively. Consistent care is essential for maintaining healthy plants (Liatris). Start by focusing on watering and fertilization as these are key components of plant health. Immediately after planting, give your newly placed plants a thorough watering. During hotter summer months, you may need to supplement watering, especially during long dry spells. Once established, these resilient plants are remarkably drought-tolerant, adapting well to their environment. In terms of fertilization, they are not heavy feeders; they thrive even in less-than-perfect soil! However, if your garden soil is particularly poor, applying a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can boost their growth. Think of it as giving your plants a nutritious breakfast to start their day right. In summary, investing time in understanding the needs of your Blazing Star plants will ensure they flourish beautifully in your garden. With the right care and attention, these striking flowers can transform any landscape into a vibrant display.

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Goat's Beard Plant - TN Nursery

Goat's Beard Plant

Goat's Beard Plant - Aruncus Dioicus Goat's Beard Plant is recognized for its feathery plumes of small, creamy-white flowers atop tall, upright stems and fern-like foliage, which add a graceful touch to gardens and landscapes. It is a charming and beneficial type with several advantages in landscaping projects. This perennial belongs to the Rosaceae family and is admired for its striking plume-like flowers and attractive foliage. One of the primary benefits of incorporating it into landscaping is its captivating appearance. The whimsical, fun aesthetic of the perennial makes it a lively contribution to any landscape. It is a welcome addition to any home or commercial garden, with striking fern-like foliage reminiscent of a goat beard. Goat's Beard Plant Is A Stunning Native Landscaping does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. By picking the right ones, you can easily enhance any landscape. Thanks to the fluff-like flair of this perennial flower, you can add a dash of eye-catching style to your lawn without the need for extensive digging or hardscaping. Scientifically known as Aruncus dioicus, this blossom is perfect for adding elegance, grandeur, and effortless sophistication to a garden. Goat's Beard Plant Can Reach 6 Feet Tall With an impressive height of 3-6 feet, the Arancus dioicus gives your garden an earthy, magical feel. Its flowers bloom in a rich cream color on groups of clustered branches; though delicate, they are unmistakable and sure to capture anyone's attention as they stroll through your garden. On a sunny evening in summer, these flowers, often called bride's feathers, boast plume-like foliage that sway in the breeze. You'll usually find them growing in woodland areas, forests, and meadows. For gardeners dreaming of a natural, wild feel for their landscape, this is a marvelous addition to their botanical collection. Attract Pollinators With This Perennial  In addition to their gorgeous blossoms, these flowers also sport strong sets of leaves that range from large to small, raising the stem and creating visual depth and fullness. Grouped, these flowers can form a gorgeous family of blossoms that enhance any landscape. Partnered with other flowers, particularly those in vibrant blue, orange, and pink hues, they are breathtaking features in any scenery. It Blooms May To June It flowers bloom from May through June, offering a beautiful display of plush, airy blossoms. Easy to grow and maintain, they are often popular among gardeners who like meadow-inspired flora and have large spaces they wish to fill with native species. Does It Grow Fast It grows relatively fast, especially when grown under the right conditions. It usually takes 2-3 years to grow into maturity, after which it develops pretty foliage and magnificent plumes of white flowers when in bloom. Where is the best place to put It It does great in part to full shade and prefers rich, moist soils that are well-draining. It is great for woodland gardens or shaded borders. What Is The Lifespan Of It Proper care for it assures it can survive for several years, often lasting about 10-15 years or even more. The perennial grows year after year, which means that it will make a lasting impression in your yard. Should I prune it? Trimming is not required, but if done, it will ensure that the perennial assumes the right shape and supports growth. How To Maintain It Goat's beard plant can be grown by watering it when the conditions are dry and applying a layer of organic material over the top to help the soil retain moisture. Frequent but light feeding is recommended in spring.

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