Column for Puslinch Pioneer, February 2020 By Ben Cullen Feb-“brrr”-uary might be the only month that makes an onomatopoeia, and a somewhat bleak one. With this bleakness, you might think gardeners dread February. But you would be mistaken. Most avid…
Are hydrangeas worth the effort to grow?
The short answer to that question is yes, because the beautiful blooms of a hydrangea are too stunning NOT to have in your garden space. With recent advances in breeding, there are more varieties than ever to choose from, so…
Seedy Confessions of Master Gardeners
A summary of advice excerpted from Master Gardener emails and chat groups. Start Dates Check seed packets for information on start dates, lighting requirements, sowing depth, and optimal germination and growing temperatures. Internet sites and books will help with this…
Plants for a shady garden
Shady places in the garden may seem problematic but they can provide welcome relief from the hot summer sun, reduce home cooling costs and open a world of opportunity to use plants you may not have previously considered. They also…
Early blooming hellebores are a sign of spring
A true harbinger of spring in Ontario are the hardy and ethereal hellebores, often found in full bloom underneath a blanket of snow in early spring, even before the snowdrops and crocus and daffodils begin to emerge. In almost dreamlike…
Garden design ideas for a small yard
Do you want to make the most of your small yard by turning it into a lovely garden that’s interesting, well put together and thoughtful? Whether large or small, it’s time to start planning your garden. It isn’t that the…
Tips for Gardening Under Trees
Gardening constantly presents us with interesting challenges. Fifteen years ago I moved to a small property completely covered by a canopy of trees: Norway maple, birch, staghorn sumac, Eastern white pine and star magnolia. Below the trees were sparse, patches…
How to Start a Rhubarb Patch
The tart stalks of rhubarb are used for pie, jams and savoury sauces. Select an area for your patch in full sun with good drainage or use raised beds and work well rotted manure or compost into the bed. Plant…
Guelph Garden Seminars 2018
Grow your gardening know-how and enjoyment with this series of free garden seminars by Guelph-Wellington Master Gardeners and the City of Guelph’s Healthy Landscapes program. Garden Design Workshop by Robert Pavlis – Learn how to create a complete design for your garden. Four…
How to bring Amaryllis back into bloom
Amaryllis are popular holiday gift plants, no doubt because of their large, showy flowers and easy care. Although many people throw them out after blooming, it is possible to bring your Amaryllis back into bloom every year. To bring your…