Iowa - Fine Gardening
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Design
Not Only Violets Are Blue: Part 2
Hey GPODers! In case you missed yesterday's post, we're swimming in a sea of blue, thanks to the many early bloomers from Kathy Schreurs's fantastic garden in Iowa. It’s been…
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Design
Not Only Violets Are Blue: Part 1
Hi GPODers! Wednesdays can bring on the midweek blues, but Kathy Schreurs is helping us see "blue" in a whole new light. I’m Kathy Schreurs from northwest Iowa, where our…
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Design
Native Plants That Do Well in Poor Soils
If only every garden was blessed with free-draining, loamy soil with the perfect pH and balance of nutrients. Life would be so easy and the choice of plants gloriously abundant.…
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Article
Plants That Take Sun and Shade for the Midwest
1. Magical® Pinkerbell Smooth Hydrangea Name: Hydrangea arborescens ‘Kolpinbel’ Zones: 4–9 Size: 3 to 5 feet tall and wide Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; average to rich, moist,…
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Design
Moon Garden Inspiration
My wife and I are both avid gardeners, but we typically only find time to sit and enjoy the landscape at dusk or after sunset. To maximize the evening appeal…
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Article
Shopping-List Plants for the Midwest
If you’ve run into a garden rut, we’ve got you covered. It’s time to start planning for your first trip to the local nursery or garden center. What plants will…
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Design
Design Ideas for Managing Rainwater in Your Garden
Whenever I am working to resolve water problems in a landscape, I must acknowledge that water will always win. The best we can do is creatively direct it toward the…
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Design
Have You Visited the Garfield Park Conservatory?
The winter doldrums are a reality in the Midwest, especially for gardeners, but an immersive plant adventure at your local conservatory is a sure way to lift your spirits. Fortunately,…
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Design
Spring Planting Plan for the Midwest
In her article "Spring Planting Ideas," Michelle Gervais beautifully illustrates the magical time that is the start of spring: "Our winter-weary spirits lift as hints of green begin to appear.…
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Design
The Best Dwarf Evergreens for Winter Containers
No garden is complete without at least a few containers for seasonal color. I always specify locations for planters when I create a new landscape design, with the intention of…