I apologize if this isn’t the right place to post, but I’m looking for recommendations for a supplier where I can purchase a large quantity of wildflower seeds to cover about 400 feet of berm along our creek. I’m also interested in planting irises closer to the creek. Any supplier suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Why is this tomato plant doing so well while my other ones aren’t. Seriously, some of them are just pathetic. Some are different varieties, but even a couple of the same varieties are no comparison..all seeds sown around the same time with about a 2 week difference overall. what’s the deal?

Im a complete newbie at gardening and I didn't do my proper research of this bag of Kellog raised bed soil and apparently it's not that good. I did however already have some fox farms happy frog soil that I did mix into the Kellogs. Would that be enough to help out the Kellogs? Or do I need to add anything else to help amend the soil? I had already transferred my small cucumber sprouts before looking into it as well, will they be ok?

Hello! Very new here.

My husband I bought a home in Mass. (zone 7a) and there was a small raised bed with raspberry pushes and a variety of weeds in the backyard.

We plan on moving the raspberry bushes this week to a raised bed from Vego (32”) to another area of the yard.

Since they will be rather siloed in this raised bed, is in safe to plant blackberries in an identical raised bed nearby?

I’ve read you should not mix them, but it seems like they will be pretty isolated in the raised bed since it’s so high.

Would appreciate any insight! The previous owner had a very green thumb and we feel out of our depths!

Introduction

The Julia Child Rose (Rosa 'WEKvossutono') is a celebrated floribunda rose named after the iconic chef Julia Child, who personally selected this variety for its buttery golden blooms and sweet licorice fragrance . Bred by American hybridizer Tom Carruth in 2004 and introduced in 2006, this award-winning rose has become a garden favorite for its disease resistance, continuous blooms, and compact growth habit . Whether adorning borders, containers, or cut-flower arrangements, the Julia Child Rose brings warmth and charm to any landscape.

Botanical Profile

Appearance

• Flowers: Large (3–4 inches wide), fully double blooms with 26–40 ruffled petals in a rich, buttery yellow. The old-fashioned, cup-shaped flowers emit a distinctive licorice-clove scent .
  
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves that contrast beautifully with the golden blooms .
  
• Growth Habit: Compact and rounded, typically reaching 2–3 feet tall and wide (up to 5 feet in warmer climates) .
  

Hybrid Origins

The Julia Child Rose is a cross between ('Voodoo' × Hybrid of R. soulieana) × 'Summerwine' and pollen parent 'Top Notch' . Marketed under names like 'Absolutely Fabulous' in the UK and 'Soul Mate' in Australia, it thrives in USDA zones 4–10, showcasing remarkable adaptability .

Growing and Care

Planting Requirements

• Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for optimal flowering .
  
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–8.0. Tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils .
  
• Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent moisture .
  

Maintenance Tips

• Pruning: Light pruning in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and shape the plant .
  
• Deadheading: Encourages repeat blooming from late spring to frost .
  
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-7) in early spring and midsummer .
  

Pest and Disease Resistance

Highly resistant to black spot and mildew, though deer may browse the foliage .

Garden Uses and Design Ideas

• Borders & Hedges: Its compact size and vibrant color make it ideal for edging or mass plantings .
  
• Containers: Thrives in pots for patios or balconies .
  
• Cut Flowers: Long-lasting blooms are perfect for vases, with stems up to 3 feet tall in some climates .
  
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts butterflies and bees .
  

Awards and Legacy

• 2006 All-America Rose Selections (AARS) Winner .
  
• Gold Star of the South Pacific (2011) and Best of the Best (2010) .
  
• Patented in the U.S. (PP18,473) and Australia, reflecting its horticultural significance .
  

Why Gardeners Love It

• Low-Maintenance: Requires minimal spraying or pruning compared to other roses .
  
• Fragrance: The sweet, candy-like scent is a standout feature .
  
• Versatility: Adapts to diverse climates, from freezing winters to hot summers .
  

Conclusion

The Julia Child Rose is a testament to beauty and resilience, combining visual appeal with effortless care. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned rosarian, this golden floribunda promises season-long delight. As one reviewer aptly noted, "A rose garden is not complete without it" .

Pro Tip: Pair with lavender or blue salvia for a striking color contrast, or plant alongside herbs like thyme to enhance its culinary namesake’s legacy!

For sourcing, consider bare-root options (shipped dormant in winter/spring) or potted plants from specialty nurseries like Heirloom Roses or FastGrowingTrees.com .

Introduction

The Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is one of North America’s most iconic and resilient native wildflowers. Renowned for its striking pinkish-purple petals and spiky orange-brown cones, this perennial plant is a favorite among gardeners, herbalists, and pollinators alike. Thriving in a wide range of conditions, from prairies to urban gardens, Echinacea purpurea is not only a beautiful ornamental plant but also a historically significant medicinal herb .

This article explores the botanical characteristics, growing requirements, ecological benefits, medicinal uses, and cultural significance of the Purple Coneflower, providing a thorough understanding of why this plant remains a timeless classic.

Botanical Characteristics

Appearance and Growth Habit

• Height & Spread: Typically grows 2–4 feet tall and 1.5–2 feet wide, with stiff, upright stems and dark green, coarse leaves .
  
• Flowers: Large, daisy-like blooms (3–5 inches in diameter) with drooping purple-pink petals and a prominent spiky central cone (hence the name "coneflower") .
  
• Bloom Time: Flowers from early summer to fall, with peak blooms in June and sporadic flowering until frost .
  

Native Range and Habitat

• Native Region: Eastern and central North America, from Florida to Canada and west to the Great Plains .
  
• Preferred Habitat: Thrives in prairies, open woodlands, and meadows, favoring well-drained soils and full sun but tolerating partial shade .
  

Notable Cultivars

• 'Magnus Superior': A popular cultivar with larger, more vibrant flowers .
  
• 'White Swan': Features white petals instead of the classic purple .
  
• 'Razzmatazz': A double-flowered variety with a unique pom-pom-like center .
  

Growing Purple Coneflower

Soil and Sun Requirements

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun (6+ hours daily) but tolerates partial shade .
  
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but requires good drainage to prevent root rot .
  
• pH Range: Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) .
  

Watering and Maintenance

• Drought Tolerance: Extremely drought-resistant once established; water moderately during prolonged dry spells .
  
• Deadheading: Removing spent blooms encourages reblooming, but leaving seed heads in winter provides food for birds .
  

Propagation Methods

• Seeds: Can be sown directly in fall or early spring; germination may take 2–4 weeks .
  
• Division: Best done every 3–4 years in spring or fall to maintain plant vigor .
  
• Root Cuttings: Some species (like E. purpurea) can regenerate from root cuttings .
  

Common Challenges

• Pests: Occasionally affected by Japanese beetles, aphids, or powdery mildew .
  
• Diseases: Root rot from poor drainage is the most significant threat .
  

Ecological and Medicinal Benefits

Wildlife and Pollinator Support

• Bees & Butterflies: A vital nectar source for pollinators, including honeybees and monarch butterflies .
  
• Birds: Goldfinches and other songbirds feed on the seeds in winter .
  
• Deer Resistance: Generally deer-resistant, making it a great choice for wildlife-friendly gardens .
  

Traditional and Modern Medicinal Uses

• Historical Use: Native Americans used Echinacea for wound healing, infections, and respiratory ailments .
  
• Immune Support: Modern research suggests it may enhance immune function and reduce cold symptoms .
  
• Active Compounds: Contains alkylamides, polysaccharides, and chicoric acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties .
  

Cultural Significance and Fun Facts

• "Snake Oil" Controversy: In the 1870s, a fraudulent tonic called "Meyer’s Blood Purifier" tarnished Echinacea's reputation temporarily, but it regained credibility as a legitimate herbal remedy .
  
• German Research: European scientists, particularly in Germany, have extensively studied Echinacea's medicinal properties .
  
• Longevity: When properly maintained, Echinacea purpurea can thrive for decades, making it a sustainable garden choice .
  

Conclusion

The Purple Coneflower is more than just a pretty face—it’s a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that supports pollinators, provides winter food for birds, and holds a revered place in herbal medicine. Whether you’re a gardener seeking a drought-tolerant bloom, a herbalist exploring natural remedies, or a nature lover wanting to attract wildlife, Echinacea purpurea is an excellent choice.

For those interested in growing this native gem, start with seeds or divisions, plant in well-drained soil, and enjoy years of vibrant blooms and ecological benefits. As the saying goes, "Plant once, enjoy forever!"

Would you like recommendations on companion plants or specific herbal preparations? Let me know how I can assist further!

Sources:
- [1] Plant Delights Nursery
- [2] The Plant Native
- [3] NCBI Research on Echinacea
- [4] Iowa State Extension
- [5] LSU AgCenter
- [6] PMC Medicinal Applications
- [7] Santa Fe Botanical Garden
- [8] True Leaf Market Guide

Introduction

Bulbinella is a fascinating genus of flowering plants belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, closely related to Bulbine and Kniphofia (red-hot pokers) . With a disjunct distribution spanning South Africa and New Zealand, this genus comprises around 23 species, each offering unique ornamental and ecological benefits . Known for their striking yellow, orange, or white flowers and grass-like foliage, Bulbinella species are prized in gardens for their drought tolerance, pollinator-friendly blooms, and, in some cases, traditional medicinal uses .

This article explores the botanical characteristics, growing requirements, ecological significance, and potential uses of Bulbinella, providing a thorough understanding of this underappreciated plant.

Botanical Characteristics

Morphology

Bulbinella species are tufted, deciduous perennials with compact rhizomes and fibrous roots . Their leaves are typically narrow, strap-shaped, and slightly fleshy but not succulent, distinguishing them from the closely related Bulbine genus . The inflorescence consists of dense, unbranched racemes bearing star- or cup-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, cream, orange, or white .

Distribution and Habitat

• South Africa: Most species (17) are found in the winter-rainfall regions of the Western and Northern Cape, thriving in seasonally damp soils, sandstone slopes, and clay flats .
  
• New Zealand: Six species are native, favoring montane grasslands and boggy areas .
  

Notable Species

1. Bulbinella nutans – A South African species with bright yellow flowers, often confused with the outdated name B. floribunda .
   
2. Bulbinella latifolia – Features broader leaves and lemon-yellow flowers, with several subspecies adapted to different soils .
   
3. Bulbinella hookeri – A New Zealand native with narrow leaves and yellow blooms, popular in horticulture .
   

Growing Bulbinella

Soil and Light Requirements

• Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal .
  
• Sunlight: Most species require full sun (6–8 hours daily) for optimal flowering .
  

Watering and Maintenance

• Watering: Moderate during the growing season (winter-spring), but allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent rot .
  
• Dormancy: Many species die back in summer, requiring little to no water during dormancy .
  

Propagation

• Seeds: Fresh seeds germinate best when sown in autumn (for winter-growing species) .
  
• Division: Clumps can be carefully divided in early spring or fall .
  

Challenges

• Root Rot: Overwatering leads to mushy, decaying roots—ensure proper drainage .
  
• Frost Sensitivity: Some species are frost-intolerant and may need protection in colder climates .
  

Ecological and Medicinal Benefits

Pollinator Attraction

Bulbinella flowers are a valuable nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity .

Traditional and Modern Uses

While Bulbinella itself has limited recorded ethnobotanical uses, its relative Bulbine frutescens (often mislabeled as "bulbinella") is renowned for its medicinal gel, used to treat burns, rashes, and skin irritations . The sap contains glycoproteins with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, similar to aloe vera .

Conclusion

Bulbinella is a resilient and visually striking genus that deserves more recognition in horticulture. Whether grown for its vibrant late-winter blooms, drought tolerance, or ecological benefits, this plant is a valuable addition to water-wise gardens. With proper care—well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and mindful watering—Bulbinella can thrive and bring a touch of South African and New Zealand beauty to landscapes worldwide.

For those interested in exploring further, species like B. nutans and B. hookeri are excellent starting points, offering both ornamental appeal and ease of cultivation .

Would you like recommendations on companion plants or specific growing tips for your region? Let me know how I can assist further!

Location - Mumbai, India 📍

First of all these two plants sprouted randomly in my curry leaf pot 7/8 months ago. Initially I let them grow because I liked the way there leaves are shaped, once they got to the height of around 10 inches i repotted them. That's when I found out that they were pomegranate plants.

I never expected them to fruit but I didn't want to discard them either. Two days ago tho while watering i noticed the flowers and I was honestly surprised.

Now my question is should I let them flower and fruit (again don't expect them to) or should I remove them in the initial bud stage itself?

So excited! The squash plants already had to be reported. They sprouted so quickly! No such luck with my parsley. And I think i planted way too much lettcue close together.....

Could anyone in this community help me out here? This sign is next to it. I wouldn’t use it for food. I want to make rosemary oil/water for my hair.

I’m going to let the lawn do its own thing with some care. Dogs and kids will use area, and is high traffic. Half day sun mostly. Many options, looking for something pretty, very tough, feels good, smells nice, what have you. Thinking of doing two types- a version that is a little hardy for shady areas, and a really tough one for sunnier.

Any cool ideas?

You can see all the branches that I cut off, and my wife is upset at me for doing so, but it was growing into the garage. Also, the roots are clearly still planted in the ground so shouldn’t this big trimming lead to thicker growth in the spring?

I’m wanting to collect thoughts on my raised garden bed plan focusing on growing 5 hot pepper plants (2 jalapeño, 2 hot banana, 1 Thai chili). I did some research on optimal spacing and companion plants to find onions, carrots, basil, and marigolds. If I can yield some of those, great, but the focus is on the peppers. Am I getting too greedy with a 2.5 ft. X 8 ft. raised garden? What do people think?

As a young farmer, I am blessed to be part of this incredible event. Special thanks to ATI Region 8 for this opportunity! 😊

P.S. I also met amazing people there 😍

Recently moved her to a 15 gallon pot from a 3 gallon. Gonna install a new tellis soon and start training her again, after removing the central post I had used originally to guide her upwards. Preflowers starting to get close to the size of a grape, hoping I’ll get some flowers within her first full year :)

I’ve inherited three plumerias from my mother in law and they’ve been in these pots for as long as I can remember. They do flower still, but pretty quickly drop and their leaves and flowers. Some of the branches are also hallow and look like they were too wet, but also too dry?

What should I be doing to help these plants bounce back.

I’m in a 10a area and also have a green house they can be moved into if needed.

My partner just sprayed Febreze into the room I was growing my seedlings in and the fan that was running spread it all over. The whole room smells like it. Do I need to throw out my seedlings and start over? They are about two months

Started these basil seeds about 12 days ago. The seeds are older. I think I got them about 4 years ago. I watered once, and left them Saran wrapped under a light. No heating pad. I’m new to seed starting and my first round of tomatoes, bell peppers and jalapeños did just fine and did not turn green. They were started with the same seed starting mix and light but in the bio degradable cardboard looking pots. Anybody know?

Currently I have six tomato plants, three romas and three volunteers from the store bought compost. All got transplanted out too early (mid-February) and the romas definitely lagged but the volunteers thrived. And now the volunteers are starting to flower but I still have no clue what they are specifically. Do I just wait for the fruit to develop and try to guess from there? Or is there a better way to determine what the cultivar is? I’d assume it’s a cold-tolerant cultivar, but beyond that I have no clue.

Got a nice spot in front of this brick wall. Gets a good amount of sun early in the day with some shade in the afternoon. I’m in zone 10a/b in the northern Los Angeles region. Was thinking maybe birds of paradise? But would love to put a big bush full of color if possible. Just don’t know what. Give me some ideas!

These things are growing out of hand lol

Hey all! Looking for general advice, fertilizing advice if needed. Last season my pomegranate tree didn’t give me any single pomegranates. They were all falling off while still really small and unripe. Not sure if it’s just the squirrels causing havoc. Here’s a few pics, not sure if any of you experts can tell if it needs anything to help give me some big ripe pomegranates this season.