As part of their studies in our Horticulture programs our students prepare fact sheets called “Garden Clippings”, which give you basic maintenance information for various plants, as well as the history behind some of our leafy friends.
Questions? Our library will grow so please check back from time to time. If you have questions please feel free to contact the Greenhouse and we will be happy to share information with you.
Discouraging Herons from Your Pond
Herons are a serious enemy of pond fish, and controlling these predatory birds can be difficult. They are attracted to larger ponds with walk - in shallow areas about a foot deep.
Easter Cactus
The Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri) originates in Brazil and is a close relative of the Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti. The Easter cactus is known as a symbol of Spring.
Easter Lily
The botanical name for the Easter lily is Lilium longiforum, and ‘Nellie White’ is the most common cultivar. These lilies have large, white trumpet-shaped flowers. The Easter lily is native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan.
Echinacea (Coneflower)
The name “echinacea” comes the Latin word echinos, which means “porcupine.” It is native to the North American prairies and was used by the Plains Indians for a variety of purposes, including snakebite and fever relief.
Echinacea purpurea (Magnus)
Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ (purple coneflower) is an upright, clump - forming perennial. The leaves are medium to dark green with a coarse - toothed margin up to 6 inches long.
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer (EAB), or in Latin, Agrilus planipennis, is an invading species of beetle from Asia. Information about the EAB has been tough to find since these beetles became an issue.
Encouraging Earthworms
Earthworms help to break down organic materials such as dead plant material and manure, creating new topsoil. Earthworms’ greatest contribution to soil health is the production of natural fertilizer; this is accomplished through the ir excreting their weight in waste products every day.
Extending the Life of Cut Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, or mums for short, make beautiful bouquets to brighten a home or special occasion. But not all mums are the same.
Fall Mums
The addition of a mum to the garden extends the planting season of our northern climate. This is because of the flower’s resistance to sporadic light frosts that begin in September and October. Selecting varieties that will bloom early, mid or late season will allow for constant colour.
Floral Arrangements – Tips
The discovery of a Neanderthal burial site in Iraq with pollen from ornamental flowers such as grape hyacinth and hollyhock has pushed the history of the use of cut flowers back to about 50,000 BC.
