How to Care for Peonies
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How to Care for Peonies

The several dozen species of peonies that are grown mostly by enthusiasts, specialists and researchers are often reproduced by seeds. Seeds are occasionally employed to establish the principal horticultural peonies, but of course seeds will rarely reproduce the beautiful flowers of cultivars that have been maintained as clones. Peony seeds may have complex dormancy requirements,…

10 Shrubs with Berries for Fall and Winter Bird Treats
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10 Shrubs with Berries for Fall and Winter Bird Treats

Berries are an irresistible treat for birds, particularly in winter when food is scarce. The fruits produced by these shrubs provide calories and crucial nutrients that birds need, particularly during the cold winter months when other natural food sources are nonexistent or buried in the snow.  Here are some of my favorites to consider for…

Blue Vervain

Blue Vervain

Blue vervain, or American vervain, is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant native to North America. It is a traditionally important plant, widely distributed in almost every state in the USA and a few provinces in Canada. Moist prairies and damp thickets are its main habitats. It is a type of perennial herbaceous plant falling under…

A white panickled aster with many flowers

White Panicled Aster

The White Panicled Aster features daisy-like rays with prominent yellow discs that redden with age and make up clusters of mini-blossoms. Known as Symphyotrichum lanceolatum, it is a flowering plant native to North America in the Asteraceae family. Its common names include asters with panicles, lance-shaped leaves, and white panicles. It is a perennial herbaceous…

Stiff Goldenrod
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Stiff Goldenrod

Stiff Goldenrod is a good choice for prairie gardens, cottage gardens and pollinator gardens. It is a resilient, self seeds and you might need to control its growth. Compared to most goldenrods, stiff goldenrod has larger, flatter flower clusters. In the fall, the leaves change to lovely colors of red. Plant Stiff Goldenrod alongside other…

How to Dry Herbs
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How to Dry Herbs

While freshly picked herbs produce the best flavours, there is always an abundance that cannot be used in a single season. The next best thing is to dry your herbs! Dried herbs can be used for a variety of purposes, including flavouring recipes and creating a fragrant fire starter. Drying your herbs is a simple…

Early Goldenrod

Early Goldenrod

Early Goldenrod, also known as Solidago juncea, is a herbaceous perennial wildflower of the family Asteraceae. Once started, it requires little maintenance and grows quickly. It thrives on ordinary, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun, and it can withstand poor, dry soils, especially soil with a lot of clay. It is a tolerant…

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