pondgal

Wow....this book looks terrific! Our vast expanse of front lawn is a continual chore. I try every year to take a bit more in garden beds, much to the chagrin of my husband, who just can't be convinced to become free of his passion for lawns. (I think it's a guy thing...lol) Maybe a copy of this book will convince him. If not, I'll just keep taking bites of that existing turf and eventually, voila....no more grass.

One of the biggest myths we have encountered here in Canada is that rhododendrons require fully shaded sites and are difficult to grow. I have rhodos growing in some areas in almost full sun, but come winter snows, I make sure they're shaded from the late winter sun. The freeze and thaw cycle that comes to Ontario in February and March is what kills these beautiful plants. By ensuring the green foliage does not thaw and freeze again come nightfall, rhododendrons will continue to live for many years.

Another myth about rhododendrons...that they only bloom once and then die. As long as one ensures an acidic soil, your rhododendrons and azaleas will bloom every year. Acidic soils can be achieved by adding pelleted sulphur or aluminum sulphate fertilizers, but these are short term chemical solutions that in the long run will not benefit your soil. I prefer using a more natural substance such as composted pine bark or pine needles collected from neighbourhood pine trees. Every year come spring I have a beautiful display of blooms which draws compliments from my neighbours.