For:
By: Daniel E. Mullins
Extension Horticulture Agent
Some Plants and Supplies Are Worth the Search
This business of providing gardening information is sometimes challenging. There is always a desire to provide practical advice, yet encourage readers to try potentially new plants and gardening practices.
Should I recommend a new plant or fungicide because I know that it will likely be difficult to find? Or, should I wait until it is readily available at most retail outlets?
Over the past several years I have chosen the former and risk the accusation of being out of touch with what is available. I have learned that most gardeners would rather have the latest information even if it might seem impractical at first. In fact, many are persistent enough to follow through even if it requires a search.
There are many examples of new plants and products that are worth the search. There is a new coated, slow release fertilizer on the market that contains not only the major elements, but all minor elements. It is so complete that it is being used as the only fertilizer amendment in one hundred per cent perlite hydroponic culture, providing all of the nutrients required.
This particular product has only been seen in larger bags for the commercial horticultural industry. But it is out there, and a persistent gardener can find it.
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about Firebush as a good choice for summer and fall color in the landscape. I doubt that it will be easy to find unless the consumer is determined and follows through by calling nurseries, garden centers and even friends who grow flowering perennials.
Insect and disease control recommendations have changed greatly over the past couple of years. Where chemical control is called for many of the old reliable products are being replaced with unfamiliar new ones. These new products are generally more specific to the pest and shorter lived in the environment. The new insecticides and fungicides might be more difficult to find in consumer sized packaging. They are also not cheap, but can be very effective if used properly.
Let me know if I get too carried away and seem to recommend or discuss gardening topics that are out of the realm of reality. If this is the case, maybe you are right. On the other hand, that new plant or gardening product might be worth the search.
Question of the Week: I have recently moved to the area and would like to grow Hostas. I have heard that they don’t do well this far south. Do you have any suggestions?
Answer: Hosta, sometimes known as Plantain Lily, is a beautiful perennial plant, having attractive foliage and providing late season flower color. Though we are too far south for unlimited plantings, you can grow hostas here.
Our
There
are many new selections of Hostas. Some will perform better in our area than
others. Don’t be afraid to try them,
just don’t over-invest.