all-year interest - Fine Gardening
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Design
What is a Shamrock and How do You Grow Them?
Shamrocks (Oxalis spp. and cvs., Zones 3–11), also known as wood sorrels, are beloved annual and perennial plants known for their distinctive foliage that resembles clover (Trifolium spp.). Shamrock leaves…
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Design
A Garden Design for Privacy and All-Year Interest
Seven years ago a couple in Carroll, Iowa, built the backyard of their dreams—or so they thought. It included an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, a patio, and a hot tub.…
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Design
The Best New Hydrangeas
If you grew up on the East Coast as I did, you know that hydrangeas are an iconic plant. I dare anyone to visit Cape Cod in the summer and…
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Design
Designing With Green
This ubiquitous color, when used well, can be just as exciting as vibrant flowers
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Design
Conifers for Any Size Landscape
Evergreen conifers provide the bones for any landscape. They offer a variety of colors, textures and habits all year long. While conifers are sometimes relegated to the rear or boundary…
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Design
It’s About Time
Most gardeners come to a point in their lives when they have to ask themselves if they can still keep up with Mother Nature. Not only does age make it…
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Design
A Gentle Approach to Planting on a Slope
When creating a new garden design, I first analyze existing elements to decide what works, what doesn’t, and why. Architectural and hardscaping elements are a good place to begin. When…
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Design
Foundation-Friendly Plants
Designing the plantings immediately surrounding your home is a tricky task for many gardeners. These plants are frequently viewed up close and personal by visitors and the UPS guy, so…
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Design
Plants for Property Lines
We have all seen it: the line of arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis and cvs., USDA Hardiness Zones 2–7) marching down the property line, stiff as can be, their heads lopped off…
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Design
10 Plants for Year-Round Containers
These survivors can stay in pots for years, lending consistency to your designs