The Japanese maple tree is otherwise known as Acer palmatum or Red Emperor Maple. It is native to Japan and other Asian countries, as well as southeast Russia. Japanese maple is a small tree with a height range of approximately 20-30 feet, so it is perfect for smaller spaces where a larger tree wouldn’t do
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Plant Encyclopedia: Soapwort
Soapwort, or Saponaria officinalis, is an ages-old perennial wildflower with a home in many gardens. This perennial features showy little flowers in shades of pink and white, as well as its sweet fragrance. However, it is named for being an ingredient in gentle soap. All the parts of soapwort are high in concentrations of saponins,
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Plant Encyclopedia: Sweet William
Sweet William, or Dianthus barbatus, is a perennial flower that is generally so short-lived it seems more like an annual or bi-annual. It typically blooms the second year it is planted. It boasts a multitude of colorful flowers on green stems with thin, sparse leaves. Though the foliage is not what you would call
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Plant Encyclopedia: Russian Sage
Russian Sage, or Perovskia atriplicifolia, is an aromatic and beautiful plant that resists both deer and pests. The leaves and stems are aromatic, while the purple flowers catch the eye of people and insects alike. This lovely plant is drought-tolerant and a hardy, vigorous grower perfect for Zones 4-9. Sunlight Needs: Russian Sage needs an
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Plant Encyclopedia: Foxglove
Foxglove, or Digitalis purpurea, is a common biennial flowering garden plant. Foxglove produces digitoxin and other cardiac chemicals, which are chemicals that strongly affect the heart. In fact, it was the original source of digitoxin for the manufacture of digitalis, a common heart medication. But interestingly, digitoxin is poisonous even in very small amounts. It
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Plant Encyclopedia: Mugo Pine
The Mugo pine, or Pinus Mugo, is a fantastic option for gardeners who want something rugged and interesting in their outdoor landscape. Mugo pines have dark green foliage with that wonderful fresh pine smell, but they are much smaller and more manageable than their larger pine tree cousins. Today’s Plant Encyclopedia will fill you in
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Plant Encyclopedia: Ferns
Ferns belong to the botanical group known as Pteridophyta. They are an ancient plant, having appeared on earth as early as 50 million years ago! Ferns have xylem and phloem, which means they are vascular plants with stems, leaves, and roots. They do not produce seeds or flowers, so they reproduce by spores. There
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Plant Encyclopedia: Lavender
Must Know Plant Care Tips: For cut flowers, gather the blossoms right after they open. Provide sunny conditions, warm temperatures, and well-drained soil. Alkaline soil is best. Lavender does not tolerate too much moisture, so consider location carefully. Can be prone to root rot if too much moisture is present. Space plants far
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Plant Encylopedia: Butterfly Rose
Must Know Plant Care Tips: Spider mites and aphids can be a problem with butterfly rose, just as other varieties of rose bushes.Occasionally, mild black spot can affect the plant. Otherwise, butterfly rose is fairly resistant to disease and insect infestation. Plant Problem Solver: You can blast away spider mites and aphids with your hose
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Plant Encyclopedia: Water Lily
Must Know Plant Care Tips: Generally speaking, the more sunlight your water lilies get, the more they will bloom and flourish. Tropical water lilies would be planted in pots that are at least 10″ around. Use a 10 to 14 inch fabric pot will be required for each plant. Fill it about half full
