Embracing Autumn: Top Fall Gardening Trends

Purple Coneflower

Purple Coneflower - Echinacea  Purple coneflowers are a favorite in the garden for their beauty, ease of maintenance, and hardiness. They’re perfect for those who enjoy an attractive, pollinator-friendly perennial.  Purple Coneflower Soil Recommendations These plants prefer rich soil and full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Planting these long-living perennials is simple: you make a hole rather than bury the root ball in the soil and water it. Once established, they do not require much maintenance or attention, not even watering when it’s still dry. They are drought-tolerant and pest-resistant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Seasonal Beauty and Blooming Cycle of The Purple Coneflower They are known to bloom throughout the summer and late fall. The purple-pink petals of each bloom cluster around a coppery-orange cone. Winter dries up the flowers, and decorative seed heads appear in winter to attract birds. The bloom season lasts many weeks after summer arrives. Even into late fall, birds and monarchs feast off these plants.  Shape and Longevity Of This Stunning Perennail  Purple Coneflowers are tall, graceful plants growing two to four feet tall. They are striking because of their daisy flowers and their somber green leaves. The perennials are perennial and can endure for decades when cared for appropriately, thus offering an excellent, stable, and durable option for any garden.

15 Assorted Daylillies - 5 Plants Each - Red, Orange and Yellow

15 Assorted Daylillies - Hemerocallis Assorted Daylillies are a popular choice for landscaping due to their vibrant blooms, ease of care, and versatility. These perennial plants offer numerous benefits that make daylilies an excellent addition to any garden or landscape design. Daylilies provide various advantages, from their wide range of colors and patterns to their adaptability to different soil conditions. Get 5 Daylilies, Each In Red, Orange, and Yellow Stella De Oro. This plant ships bare-root and dormant (no leaves or foliage). It will not green out until next spring. Assorted Daylillies For Vibrant Warm Season Blooms Adding Hemerocallis - 5 plants each - red, orange, and yellow - will make your yard vibrant and colorful. Daylilies come in a rainbow of hues and patterns, including self, blend, polychrome, baritone, bicolor, and banded. Their blossoms can be a mixture of colors, like purple and gold, or a combination of scarlet and lemon. Some daylilies can grow up to four feet tall. They typically bloom between mid-spring and early autumn, with June being their most prolific month. Even though each bloom only lasts a day, it can take a month or longer for all blooming. Create Havens for Pollinators With Our Assorted Daylillies  These flowers are beautiful additions to rock, butterfly, and children's gardens. Butterflies and hummingbirds are just two of the many pollinators that daylilies attract with their nectar and pollen. The blue, lemon, and purple flowers draw in lots of bees. These plants rely on pollination to reproduce and create fruit. Because the daylily fruit is a loculicidal capsule, its walls ripen and crack to release the seeds. Design Vibrant Walkways and Borders One of the many uses for daylilies is as a border plant, but they also look lovely scattered around a garden. They work exceptionally well, filling empty spaces in flower beds and sloped banks. They encourage people to stay on the designated path when used as walkway edges. It's common to see them planted along fences, walkways, terraces, and curbsides. Another option is to grow these flowers around a foundation. Their leaves complement a variety of other flowers, like rhododendrons, boxwoods, and evergreens. Suppress Weed Growth By Planting These Daylilies are excellent weed suppressants because their dense foliage smothers and eventually kills most weeds. Another way they help get rid of weeds is by blocking photosynthesis. This means the weeds can't obtain the nutrients (carbohydrates) they need to grow, so they die. Planting 15 assorted daylillies - 5 plants each - will kill young, immature weeds.

Milkweed Plant

Milkweed Plant: Asclepias Incarnata The milkweed plant is known for attracting monarchs. It is a native perennial with clusters of showy, pink to mauve flowers and lance-shaped leaves. The plant attracts pollinators while thriving in moist, wetland habitats. It boasts numerous benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. Its unique features contribute to outdoor spaces' aesthetic appeal and ecological value. With clusters of vibrant and captivating flowers, it adds a burst of color and charm to gardens while also serving as a vital component in supporting local ecosystems. It is a flowering perennial that, in addition to its ornate floral growths, is highly beneficial for local ecosystems. Today, we will examine this truly stunning and unique plant. The plant can grow to about 59 inches tall and is known for the vibrant, clustering flowers at the top of the narrow stem. The flowers have a purplish-pink hue and pink shafts reaching the main plant stem. The plant's leaves have a sword-like shape and a deep green hue that remains for most of the year.  When the flowers are in full bloom, they create a stunning contrast against the natural earth colors of the leaves, making them stand out in any garden or landscape. The plant has opposite leaves that grow in pairs on either side of the stem. Thus, the plant alone has an elegant, tidy, and elegant air. The green leaves work well in drab areas of your garden that could use some brightening. Aside from the innate beauty of Asclepias Incarnata, with its green foliage and glowing pink flowers, this plant also attracts a different kind of beauty-monarch butterflies.   Monarchs frequently visit these flowers to nourish themselves with nectar and lay their eggs in them so the larvae can thrive. As a perennial with rich, nectar-filled flowers, the plant attracts beautiful hummingbirds. The shifting colors of the hummingbird breast will also contribute to the palette of your outdoor areas. The length of the Asclepias Incarnata leaves varies from 2 ½ inches to 6 inches. They are narrow and have light green veins running through them. They don't grow densely, leaving the flowers to take center stage in their bouquet. The near-neon hue of this plant's flowers makes them great companion pieces for other bright-blooming flowers. Gardeners and landscapers like to plant it to add a splash of unique color that instantly breathes new life into dull spaces. Benefits of Milkweed (Asclepias Incarnata) Yes, the Asclepias Incarnata looks stunning in full bloom. However, there are perhaps even more important reasons you should consider adding this perennial to your garden. It grows natively in North America. They have been observed to grow wild from Texas to Nova Scotia. This means they will be easy for you to plant, cultivate, and maintain even if you don't have much gardening experience. Asclepias Tuberosa Plant Supports the Local Honey Bee Population  Honeybees are vital to your local ecosystem as they are natural pollinators. In fact, according to Farmers.gov, honey bees are responsible for the pollination of nearly 80% of our flowering plants. Keeping it can attract bees that pollinate your garden's flowers and other plants. The honey bee population is dramatically declining, and providing sanctuaries for these critical links in the ecosystem has never been more important.  Keeps Pests Away Asclepias Incarnata contains a natural latex that repels invasive insects and animals that would otherwise feast on the plant. Therefore, this plant in your garden can repel these pests and keep your other plants healthier. Ornamental Value - If you look closely at the flowers, you will see they are made of smaller, intricate flowers. This gives them a stunning appearance, while the purple-pink coloration adds ornamental value to many landscapes. Plus, the flowers have a fragrant aroma that some have said is reminiscent of cinnamon. The Monarch Butterfly Population-Like honey bees, the monarch butterfly population is in decline. Some leading conservation groups have even classified them as endangered. You can do your part to support the migration patterns of the Monarch butterfly by keeping it in your garden.  The best time to plant it is in the fall, when the soil is likely wet. However, Asclepias Incarnata prefers wet and moist soil, so if your area receives a good amount of rain in the Spring, you can also plant it in early Spring. The best time to prune this plant is in the Spring before it sprouts new growths. Pruning helps make the plant look more attractive and encourages the development of new leaves. However, it may not be necessary if the plant is already healthy. Absolutely. The females lay their eggs on them as they provide a food source for Monarch butterfly larvae. Adult monarch butterflies are also attracted to the nectar of the flowers. No matter what type of plant you want, TN Nursery has it. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making us a perfect choice for experienced and new gardening enthusiasts. Order now to paint your outdoor spaces with vibrant colors. It is a tall plant noted for its pink to purple flowers. It is one of 115 plants in the Asclepiadaceae family, named after Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine. This is appropriate because it is known for containing high levels of cardiac glycosides, which are used in some treatments for heart disease. This same substance also serves as the only source for Monarch butterfly larvae. Where Does Milkweed Grow It is native to the midwestern and eastern regions of the United States and Canada, but it can also be found further west. It is most commonly found in more open habitats, such as pastures, prairies, fields, and roadsides. It needs total sun to grow but can tolerate light shade as well. You’ll typically find it commonly clustered together into large patches, which are called colonies.  It can grow to be over five feet tall. The foliage can grow up to 8 inches, elongated nearly four inches wide, and is somewhat thick. The upper part of the oval-shaped leaves is usually darker greenish, while the underside is much lighter green and sometimes even white. When cut, both the leaves and the stems reveal a milky latex. The flowers can grow nearly an inch long and half an inch wide with a midrib that runs beneath them. They have a pink to purple coloring over them with a greenish tint and are very sweetly scented. Milkweed Plant Has Striking Pink-Purple Blooms The pink-to-purple colors contrast nicely against lush green fields and dry yellow prairies. Gardeners like it for its distinctive appearance and sweet, fragrant aromas.  Another reason why gardeners often like it is that it serves as the host plant for the beautiful monarch butterfly. These butterflies will lay their eggs on it, and as mentioned previously, the nectar also serves as the only food source for the Monarch larvae. Gardeners who like monarch butterflies or are otherwise concerned about their declining population can grow it to provide these butterflies with a natural habitat The flowering perennial is named for its cardenolide-bearing latex, which benefits butterflies and insects. Monarch butterflies use and require specific species, including Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata, as host plants: their genus name, Asclepias, honors Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine.  Asclepias contains hundreds of species native to Africa, North America, and South America. Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata are native to the American continents and standard across the central and eastern United States. The sun-loving Asclepias syriaca grows naturally in fields, prairies, and pastures, while Asclepias incarnata grows along creeks, ponds, and bogs. Their flowers typically bloom from June through August. Asclepias produces complex blossoms that have similarities to orchids. Their large, spherical clusters of five-petaled blossoms are at the top of their thick stems. Each Asclepias growth usually carries two to five clusters of flowers. The individual blossoms are about three-quarters of an inch long and emit a strong, sweet fragrance. Asclepias syriaca has greenish-pink to rosy pink blooms, while Asclepias incarnata's flowers tend toward a brighter purplish-pink hue. It can grow up to five feet tall. Their thick, bright green leaves are six to eight inches long and two to three-and-one-half inches wide. The leaves' upper surfaces are darker than their whitish undersides. Asclepias plants form colonies in nature and landscapes and need room to spread out. Asclepias incarnata is highly ornamental and fairly quickly contained, making it well-suited to perennial, butterfly, and pollinator gardens. Asclepias syriaca works well in meadow gardens without defined borders. Monarchs grow from seed and spread as their rhizomes expand. They can be propagated in the late fall or early spring. Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias incarnata are food sources for monarch butterflies, beetles, moths, and other insects that evolved to feed on their nectar. In the midwestern and northeastern regions of the United States, their leaves are the most crucial source of nourishment for monarch caterpillars, and their presence helps to fortify and increase monarch populations. If you want to encourage monarch butterflies and other pollinators to make your garden home, you'll surely want to add the plant to your landscape. It needs full sun and well-drained soil. - Grow somewhere where you receive 6-8 hours of full sunlight daily. The flower is a habitat for monarch butterflies. The plant grows on the prairie, meadow, and roadside. It is best established in the brightest places.  It is an herbaceous perennial that grows tall and has wide leaves and sweet-smelling flowers. It has seed pods that pop open and shed seeds containing silky hairs.It resembles common plantain and has wide-eared green leaves and pink, orange, or white flowers, depending on the variety. It blooms in oblong spikes and is good for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.  Milkweed can last for years in most cases. Annual plants are annual; that is, they seed to flower in a year and also self-sow

Black Eyed Susan

Black-Eyed Susan: Rudbeckia Hirta Black Eyed Susan has vibrant yellow petals and dark, contrasting centers and is a popular and delightful addition to any landscaping project. This native North American wildflower offers a host of pleasing attributes that make it a sought-after choice for gardens and outdoor spaces. From its adaptability to its visual appeal and ecological benefits, it stands out as a versatile and attractive plant.  Black-Eyed Susan Plants Attract Pollinators Rudbeckia Hirta is a beautiful and popular flower that blooms each year in North America. With yellow flowers surrounding a dark circular center, this plant serves an aesthetic purpose in any landscape and draws in bees and butterflies. Due to its hardiness and versatility, the plant is suitable for growing in the garden for beginners and professionals.  This perennial is valued for ornamental purposes and contributes to ecosystem maintenance.  Features of the Black-Eyed Susan The perennial has bright yellow petals with a dark brown or black Eye in the middle, making it a vivid plant that would look great in any garden. This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial insects, so it should be included in any pollinator garden. It is relatively adaptable. It does well in arid conditions and simple soil types, making it a perfect pick for any low-maintenance garden.  Pollinator Favorites It prefers regions receiving full or partial sun exposure. Its growth habit is 2 to 3 feet tall and similar in width, enhancing the green appearance of areas where it is grown. Once established, this plant does not need much attention and usually grows well.  It is relatively immune to many garden pests and diseases. Growers of this plant can also contribute to habitat and care for one's patch of land by offering food for pollinators and other more valuable insects. Returns Every Warm Season Buy them and add these beautiful flowers to your garden, like our other popular ornamental plants, such as echinacea, shasta daisy, or coneflower plants. Growth Enhancements and Suggestions They do well in regions with full sun exposure. Ensure they are exposed to at least six hours of sunshine daily. They like well-draining soils and will grow in a range of soil types. These perennials symbolize encouragement, motivation, and justice. Their bright yellow color with a dark center is linked with positivism and strength, making them perfect for any garden.  Fertilizing Isn't Necessary, But Here are Recommendations They are native plants that do not require fertilizer, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer if you prefer it. Use it sparingly as they grow because these plants are not heavy feeders.  Maturity Height and Bloom Cycle  Depending on their type, they are perennials that can reach 1 to 3 feet. They provide great accents to borders and garden landscapes. Black-eyed Susan plants can take from 60 to 90 days to bloom after germination from seeds. The plants return year after year, blooming mid to late summer and continuing into early fall.

Red Osier Dogwood

Red Osier Dogwood - Cornus Sericea Red Osier Dogwood has stunning stems. These brilliant scarlet branches stand out against the white backdrop of snow, creating a visually appealing contrast that adds interest to the landscape. Additionally, the shrub's deciduous foliage turns a rich burgundy in the fall, contributing to the seasonal variety and enhancing the overall appeal of the landscape. Its, sometimes called scarlet twig rather than osier, is a deciduous shrub that stands out for its distinct coloring, prominent size, and much more. If you're looking to vary the look of your space and incorporate something different that stands out among some of your other plants, this is a beautiful choice. Here's how this shrub can elevate your garden to the next level. Red Osier Dogwood Adds Color Throughout the Year It is a uniquely colorful shrub with something to offer your garden throughout the year. In the early summer, small bunches of white flowers bloom and add a touch of delicate beauty to your space. After blooming, this shrub produces white berries and leaves that start to turn with the seasons. When everything falls off the shrub, it reveals the vibrant crimson branches underneath, providing color throughout the year. Red Osier Dogwood Attracts Rare Wildlife and Pollinators  Both the flowers and the berries of this shrub serve as food sources for butterfly larvae, songbirds, and bees. Not only will these be a joy to see flittering and floating about your garden, but they also pollinate the flowers of this shrub and surrounding plants. There are some areas of our yard where we need help growing most plants. But is that an issue with this shrub? It actually loves moisture, making it more well-suited for areas of your property where other things may not take. Better yet, it proliferates and is relatively hardy. These shrubs can reach a towering six to nine feet tall and wide, so they'll make themselves known once they've established themselves in your yard. This Shrub Helps With Soil Erosion It spreads fast, which can be beneficial if you're growing it in areas where the spreading root systems can take hold and reduce the soil erosion your space would otherwise encounter. If you're tired of looking at roots, these shrubs may also reduce the amount of weed growth in the area. It's a bonus as you see beautiful shrubs yearly and benefit from weedless, healthy soil. Where does it grow well? It grows best in acidic to neutral, moist, well-drained soils and prefers full to partial sun. This plant species originates from North America; it is preferable in zones 2-8; its natural habitat includes swamps, river edges, and the forest.  Is it a woody plant?  Indeed, it is also a type of woody plant, mainly a shrub that has scarlet stems throughout the winter season. It prefers a humid climate and is a deciduous plant with a growth habit that can spread to 6-9 feet tall if left uncontrolled by pruning.  How can you keep it small?  It needs hard pruning, and this should be done when the plant is still small, preferably at the beginning of winter or at the end of spring. Cut off older and larger branches to increase branching and density and retain a bright scarlet foliage color.  How quickly does it grow?  It is a fast-growing shrub that may grow up to one to two feet per year under ideal conditions. It grows fast in any kind of terrain, becoming an excellent plant for hedges and erosion prevention.  How do you harvest it? Red Osier Dogwood stems are to be harvested in fall or winter because that is when these stems are most colorful. When pruning, use sharp pruning shears and choose healthy stems for cutting, ornamental, or for propagation.

Apple Fruit Trees 3-4'

Apple Fruit Trees: Malus Domestica Growing your own apple fruit trees can be a rewarding and delicious endeavor. Whether you're aiming for sweets right off the branch or planning to bake warm pies, there's something special about nurturing these trees from planting to harvest. But before you dive in, it's essential to understand that not all varieties thrive everywhere. Factors like local climate, soil conditions, and even sun exposure play crucial roles in how well your trees will grow and produce fruit. With a little effort and care, you'll soon be enjoying your very own homegrown ones! When growing them, it is important to choose the right variety suited to your climate, ensure proper soil conditions, and provide adequate sunlight and water. Regular pruning and pest management will also promote healthy growth and improve fruit production. Choosing the Right Apple Tree Varieties Selecting the right variety goes beyond simply finding one that survives in your area; you also want to ensure it produces ones that you love. It's like choosing a friend based on what activities you enjoy together- the better the match, the more enjoyable the experience will be when harvest time arrives. When selecting your variety, think about your intended use for them as well. For, crispy varieties are usually preferred, while softer varieties may be better suited for baking or cider-making. Consider your taste buds-do you lean towards sweet or tart? Each variety offers its unique flavor profile, which can drastically affect your enjoyment of homegrown ones. Popular Apple Fruit Trees Varieties for Different Climates Cold Climates: For those residing in northern areas, Honeycrisp stands out with its crisp texture and sweet-tart balance. Northern Spy is renowned for its rich flavors, making it ideal for pies and sauces, while McIntosh delivers a softer fruit perfect for baking. Warm Climates: Moving southward, types like Gala deliver sweetness that's lovely fresh off the tree, while Fuji maintains its crispness even after storage. If you want something zesty with a kick, Granny Smith has you covered-and it holds up beautifully in baking. However, understanding climate suitability and regional preferences isn't enough; your personal taste truly shapes your orchard. Ideal Planting Conditions Proper planting conditions for your apple trees can make all the difference. The ideal environment combines suitable soil, sufficient sunlight, and adequate spacing. Let's explore each component to give you a solid foundation for nurturing your orchard. Soil Requirements To start with, they thrive in well-drained soil. The goal is to create the best possible soil environment where your trees can establish strong roots. Once your soil checks out as suitable for planting, let's discuss sunlight needs. Sunlight Needs Sunlight is another critical requirement. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, the more sun they receive, the better yields and sweeter fruits you'll enjoy when harvest time arrives. Picture this: as the sun dances across your orchard each day, it's providing essential energy that fuels photosynthesis-a process that's vital for producing those succulent ones you look forward to picking. Therefore, choosing a location that maximizes sunlight exposure could lead to an abundant harvest. Now that we've covered soil and sunlight, it's essential to understand how spacing affects growth. Spacing Criteria Finally, space makes a significant difference in the health of yours. Ideally, plant them about 15-18 feet apart. This distance allows each tree enough room to grow without competing for moisture and nutrients. Think of this as giving your trees personal space; they will grow healthier and more robust when they aren't overcrowded. By avoiding too dense an arrangement, you're promoting good airflow and preventing issues related to disease growth, which tends to flourish in crowded environments. Understanding these key elements lays the groundwork for effectively establishing your orchard, paving the way for a comprehensive approach to successful planting techniques. Step-by-Step Planting Guide The first step to a successful planting is proper site preparation. Begin by clraning the area good; this means removing weeds, rocks, and any debris that could interfere with growth. Imagine your new tree as a guest at a dinner party-it deserves a clean space to flourish! Once the area is clear, it's time to dig a hole that's double the width of the root ball. This spacious opening will allow roots to grow freely. However, be cautious not to dig deeper than the height of the root ball-hosting your tree too deep can suffocate its roots. Now that your hole is ready, it's time for the exciting part-planting! Carefully lift yours from its container, being gentle to avoid damaging the roots as you do so. As you place it into the prepared hole, pay special attention to the graft union-the small bulge on the trunk above the roots. This graft should sit above the soil line to ensure healthy growth. Once positioned correctly, begin filling the hole with the removed soil around the roots. Ensure that it's firm but not compacted; you want to offer support without restricting root expansion. Think of this as tucking a child in for bed-firmly but gently. With your tree nestled in its new home, watering becomes paramount. Immediately after planting, water your newly placed ones generously. This process helps eliminate air pockets in the soil and encourages proper root establishment. Aim for moist soil, taking care not to saturate it-too much water can create a swampy environment detrimental to roots. Adding mulch around the base is also essential; it helps retain moisture and suppress weeds but remember to keep mulch away from the trunk itself-this prevents rot and pest issues. Following this step-by-step planting guide will set yours on a path toward thriving health and eventual fruitful harvests. Each action taken now contributes significantly to your tree's long-term success in producing luscious fruit year after year. As we shift our focus now, understanding how to nurture and shape your tree will play a crucial role in maximizing its growth potential. Pruning and Maintenance Tips Proper pruning and maintenance are essential for healthy, productive ones. It's a rewarding endeavor that begins long before you see the first blossoms or fruits. Understanding when to prune your trees sets the foundation for successful growth. When to Prune Aim to prune yours in late winter or early spring, ideally right before the new growth begins. At this point, your tree will still be dormant, which means it can efficiently recover from any cuts made without stressing it. The tree is also less susceptible to disease during this time. Imagine pruning as giving your trees a good, needed haircut just before heading into their active growing season. How to Prune Start by removing any dead or diseased branches-like preventing an illness from spreading within a community, this helps keep the remaining parts of the tree healthy. Next, focus on thinning out crowded sections, allowing more light and air to circulate. This not only improves the tree's appearance but also significantly benefits its health and productivity. Aim for an open-center shape as you prune; envision a well-structured umbrella that allows sunlight and rain to penetrate deeply into the foliage. Beyond effective pruning, regular maintenance is vital to nurturing strong trees. Fertilization Fertilization is another critical aspect of maintenance. In early spring, applying a balanced fertilizer provides essential nutrients that encourage growth. However, it's important to stop fertilizing after July. Late-season growth might leave tender new shoots vulnerable to winter damage after the frost hits. Think of it like preparing for a big storm; you wouldn't want to be caught outside with flimsy clothing just as winter arrives. Instead, aim for a solid layer of protection by allowing your trees to harden off before colder temperatures take hold. Additionally, ensure yours receive adequate water. They thrive with consistent and deep watering-ideally once a week-especially during dry spells. You can check dirt moisture by digging down a few inches; if it's dry at that depth, it's time for a drink! Keeping both hydration and nutrition levels balanced allows your trees to grow vigorously while producing abundant fruit. With these practices in place, you'll set your trees up for strong growth and productivity as they mature. Now let's explore crucial steps to protect them from common threats and ensure their health continues. Harvesting and Storage Techniques Knowing when to pull them from your trees directly impacts the taste and quality of the fruit. Harvest generally occurs in late summer. A useful trick is carefully lifting; if it separates easily from the branch with a gentle tug, it's ready. This simple test ensures that you're getting the most flavorful and ripe fruit. When to Harvest The right timing really matters-if harvested too early, you might encounter sour ones, while waiting too long can lead to mealy or overripe fruit. It's not uncommon for home gardeners to mark their calendars based on previous years' harvest dates, adjusting as needed based on yearly weather variations. Regularly checking them as they near maturity will make this decision easier each season. Harvesting Techniques Once it's clear that yours are ripe, it's time to pick them with care. Use a gentle twisting motion when removing apples from the tree; this minimizes bruising and helps maintain the integrity of both the fruit and tree branches. Supporting them with one hand while twisting gently with the other can prevent tearing stems, a common mistake that can weaken your tree's productivity in future seasons. Proper harvesting practices not only enhance the quality of your crop this year but also preserve tree health for fruitful seasons ahead. Storage Methods Storage Method Duration Notes Refrigerator 1-2 months Keeps fresh longer; humidity control is necessary. Cool Basement 2-4 weeks Ideal for short-term storage; darker conditions are best. Canning 1 year Excellent for preserving large quantities. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy yours for months, making all that hard work worthwhile.  With these techniques in mind, you'll not only optimize your apple harvest but also enjoy your delicious fruits long after picking them. Happy gardening!

Red Osier Dogwood

Red Osier Dogwood - Cornus Sericea Red Osier Dogwood has stunning stems. These brilliant scarlet branches stand out against the white backdrop of snow, creating a visually appealing contrast that adds interest to the landscape. Additionally, the shrub's deciduous foliage turns a rich burgundy in the fall, contributing to the seasonal variety and enhancing the overall appeal of the landscape. Its, sometimes called scarlet twig rather than osier, is a deciduous shrub that stands out for its distinct coloring, prominent size, and much more. If you're looking to vary the look of your space and incorporate something different that stands out among some of your other plants, this is a beautiful choice. Here's how this shrub can elevate your garden to the next level. Red Osier Dogwood Adds Color Throughout the Year It is a uniquely colorful shrub with something to offer your garden throughout the year. In the early summer, small bunches of white flowers bloom and add a touch of delicate beauty to your space. After blooming, this shrub produces white berries and leaves that start to turn with the seasons. When everything falls off the shrub, it reveals the vibrant crimson branches underneath, providing color throughout the year. Red Osier Dogwood Attracts Rare Wildlife and Pollinators  Both the flowers and the berries of this shrub serve as food sources for butterfly larvae, songbirds, and bees. Not only will these be a joy to see flittering and floating about your garden, but they also pollinate the flowers of this shrub and surrounding plants. There are some areas of our yard where we need help growing most plants. But is that an issue with this shrub? It actually loves moisture, making it more well-suited for areas of your property where other things may not take. Better yet, it proliferates and is relatively hardy. These shrubs can reach a towering six to nine feet tall and wide, so they'll make themselves known once they've established themselves in your yard. This Shrub Helps With Soil Erosion It spreads fast, which can be beneficial if you're growing it in areas where the spreading root systems can take hold and reduce the soil erosion your space would otherwise encounter. If you're tired of looking at roots, these shrubs may also reduce the amount of weed growth in the area. It's a bonus as you see beautiful shrubs yearly and benefit from weedless, healthy soil. Where does it grow well? It grows best in acidic to neutral, moist, well-drained soils and prefers full to partial sun. This plant species originates from North America; it is preferable in zones 2-8; its natural habitat includes swamps, river edges, and the forest.  Is it a woody plant?  Indeed, it is also a type of woody plant, mainly a shrub that has scarlet stems throughout the winter season. It prefers a humid climate and is a deciduous plant with a growth habit that can spread to 6-9 feet tall if left uncontrolled by pruning.  How can you keep it small?  It needs hard pruning, and this should be done when the plant is still small, preferably at the beginning of winter or at the end of spring. Cut off older and larger branches to increase branching and density and retain a bright scarlet foliage color.  How quickly does it grow?  It is a fast-growing shrub that may grow up to one to two feet per year under ideal conditions. It grows fast in any kind of terrain, becoming an excellent plant for hedges and erosion prevention.  How do you harvest it? Red Osier Dogwood stems are to be harvested in fall or winter because that is when these stems are most colorful. When pruning, use sharp pruning shears and choose healthy stems for cutting, ornamental, or for propagation.