Gardening Answers

What new plants are you trying in the garden this year?

maryannnewcomer | Posted in Mountain West Gardening on

I finally found an Oklahoma Redbud (I know, not part of the Mountain West). It is said to be reliably hardy here and rumor has it, it performs better in our 100 degree summer/desert climate. We shall see. 

Are you growing something new to you? Vegetables? Flowers? Shrubs? Trees? Let’s visit about this. I look forward to hearing your stories.

Replies

  1. User avater Moderator
    marti_n_midwest_moderator | | #1

    I am going to try growing Sweet Potatoes for the first time. I have no idea how well it will work, but why not give it a try. They are really healthy and my dogs love Sweet Potatoe Chips. Just a couple of plants. If anyone has advice for me I am all ears.

  2. User avater Moderator
    maryannnewcomer | | #2

    Hey Marti!
    I checked with my friend who also loves sweet potatoes. Her favorites to grow are Bonita and Murasakis.

    Good luck!

    1. User avater Moderator
      marti_n_midwest_moderator | | #3

      Thank you for the advice.

    2. User avater Moderator
      Plantswoman | | #4

      Do they come as seeds? I was thinking like potato starts but no?

      1. User avater Moderator
        maryannnewcomer | | #5

        You are correct, you need to find slips/starts. Southern Exposure Seed Exchange has an extensive selection. I've not grown them, but now you are making me think I should get on board and give them a try! They have no tolerance for cold, so wait until it is good and warm. Good luck.

  3. COfree | | #6

    Royal Raindrops crab apple tree planted May 6-7 in my SW Colorado garden. Covered with deep pink flowers, about 8' tall. Used plenty of Happy Frog soil in planting hole. This replaced a Scotch Pine tree that just didn't make it through recent heavy snow and dry summer. Jacked the dead tree out and enlarged planting hole before amending with some good soil. I have been deep watering every 3 days and so far it looks happy. Does anyone else have this variety? Description says small fruit that lasts into December - a real treat for the birds.

  4. User avater Moderator
    maryannnewcomer | | #7

    Oh, this sounds like a great replacement. I do NOT have Royal Raindrops, but my neighbor just put one in. You are both making me jealous! I love the persistent fruit.

    1. COfree | | #8

      Let me know how your neighbor's tree does. This is a good time to plant and enjoy the bloom. Yes, all the winter birds will enjoy the tiny crab apples. My tree is planted inside a fenced area near the house. This should keep deer away from it and I can see the tree. The rest is 3 acres of native plants but this splash of color is great. Maybe some non-native flowers near it would add more color. Here is picture.

      1. User avater Moderator
        maryannnewcomer | | #9

        Will do and thanks for checking in!

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