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.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for the Home Gardener
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a holistic, proactive approach to control insect pests, weeds and diseases while minimizing chemical use. The toxic and carcinogenic ingredients in pesticides kill both insect pests and beneficial insects, weeds, and mold or fungus.
Iris
Many thousands of years ago, the Greeks would plant a purple iris on women’s graves. It was said that the iris symbolizes the rainbow, from the Greek goddess named Iris.
Japanese Painted Fern
The Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’) is native to China, Korea, Japan and Taiwan but has become very popular in North America due to its incredible beauty and versatility.
Jewel Weed
Jewel weed has stems that are somewhat translucent and succulent; they have swollen or darkened nodes. The seed pods are pendant and have projectile seeds that explode from the pods when they are lightly touched. The plant grows 2 to 5 feet tall and then blooms.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is native to the island of Madagascar, where it grows in the relatively cool plateaus of the Tsarantanana Mountains. In its natural habitat, K. blossfeldiana grows in humus soil and forms small upright shrubs.
Leucanthemum “Becky”
Shasta is a native Indian word meaning “white.” Formerly a member of the genus Chrysanthemum, the shasta daisy is now known as Leucanthemum superbum and is a member of the Asteraceae family.
Limestone Rocks in the Landscape
Rock is consolidated or unconsolidated mineral matter. Limestone is sedimentary rock formed from the skeletons and shells of ocean organisms that consist chiefly of calcium carbonate.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs belong to the scale insect group. Their name comes from the whitish “ mealy ” wax covering their soft bodies.
Mexican Heather
Mexican heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia) is a small, tropical, evergreen shrub originating in Mexico and Guatemala. In our climate, however, Cuphea hyssopifolia is best grown as an annual.
Naturalized Landscaping
Natural landscaping is considered working with, not against, nature. T he principles of informal style best suit a natural landscape. Informality allows the nature of the plant s to shine rather than their shape. Formal gardens require much more work to create perfect uniformity, which is immensely.
