|
The
meaning of perennial. A perennial is any plant that lives for three
or more years when it's grown in conditions it can tolerate. Just because
a plant does not live three years does not mean it is not a perennial,
(Mexican sage probably wouldn't survive in Alaska). All perennials have
the potential to live a long, full life. Technically, the term perennial
includes trees, shrubs and grasses. Usually when gardeners talk about perennials
we are referring to herbaceous flowering perennials which have soft,
fleshy stems.
Have
you heard of xeriscaping? If you haven't before, you are sure to in the
future. This movement is strong in arid regions. Owners coping with water
shortages are embracing xeriscape thinking which combines good horticulture
with water conservation to create flower gardens every bit as lush and
vibrant as those in more temperate climates.
Edible
herb bouquets. When cutting fresh herbs for the kitchen, don't worry about
snipping off more than you need. Put the extra cuttings in a vase of water
and use them to decorate the table. They will remain kitchen fresh as long
as they stay perky (usually a week or more). Basil, marjoram, mint, oregano,
rosemary, sage and thyme can be displayed this way.
Daffodils
in containers. For maximum show, set bulbs close together, the tips level
with the soil surface. Cover the pots with 6" to 8" of moist
peat moss or wood shavings. Look for roots at 8 to 10 weeks. Move the pots
to a cool room or sheltered garden spot to bloom. Keep well watered until
the foliage yellows, then plant in the garden.
Sea
Lavender (or Statice) lasts long fresh or dried. Cut these flowers for
fresh bouquets after most of the flowers have finished blooming. For dried
arrangements, cut after opening, but before sun has faded them. With a
rubber band join several bunches together by the stem bases. Hang bunches
upside down in a dry spot out of the sun until the flowers dry.
Adobe
soil. There are many problems associated with growing in adobe. The primary
one is that of drainage. Whenever possible a tile drain system should be
installed. The soil can best be amended with Bandini 'Soil Builder' and
decomposed granite mixed in deeply. Alkalinity must also be considered
if plants look yellow. Stunted soil sulfur added at a rate of 2 pounds
per 100 square feet will help balance the soil.
Light sandy
soil. Adding as much humus as possible with peat moss and cultivating well
will improve this type of soil. When watering perennials, vegetables and
shrubs do not water too deep. Watering trees should be done deeply and
seldom to encourage deep rooted development.
What
types of flowers or shrubs would do well on the west side of the house
where the temperature can reach 120 degrees? Leptosermum, oleander, lantana,
bougainvillea, cistus, plumbago, felicia and pittosporum should all do
well. For annuals, marigolds, petunias, portulacas and tithonias will give
summer color.
Planting
under eucalyptus. The heavy demand for food and water by the tree and the
toxic effect of the leaves and bark make trouble for most plants. Grass,
heavily fed and watered is the best bet since debris can easily be raked
off. Ivy can be used but cleanup of debris is difficult.
Attracting
hummingbirds. Hummingbirds add an exciting dash of color to your garden.
They are easy to attract after you understand their basic needs. Because
they have a high metabolism they need a frequent nectar supply. They are
attracted to bright colored tube shaped flowers, especially red and orange.
To attract hummingbirds try planting salvia, cardinal flowers, trumpet
vine, columbine, phlox, delphinium, and morning glories. In order to assure
constant visitors you need to plant with overlapping bloom periods.
Freezing
soft fruit. Spread the fruits out on a tray so they are not in contact
with each other, then freeze them. Once they are frozen they can be transferred
to a container and kept frozen until they are needed. Some soft fruits
that freeze well are: apples, apricots, berries, cherries, grapes, nectarines,
peaches, plums, and raspberries. It's best to remove the pit or core before
freezing.
You can
trap snails and slugs by moistening a piece of newspaper and loosely rolling
it into a tube. The snails and slugs will seek shelter in it during daylight
hours. You can pick up the newspaper and dispose of it, sleeping guests
and all.