Optimal Outdoor Solutions

Great color combos do not have to mean flowers, they can also mean texture and foliage. Look at the way the creeping jenny (groundcover) helps the Krossa Regal Hosta (upright blue plant) and vise versa.

Azaleas are one of springs most prized trophies. They welcome the warmer weather and nice sunny days with color and beauty. If you want to make sure your azaleas look their best, be sure to follow my simple tips to keep them looking amazing! Rule 1. Prune them AFTER they are finished blooming. Rule 2. Fertilize them twice a year, once in the spring and again lightly in the fall (slow release fertilizer is ok). Rule 3. Water consistently and not sparingly! Deep watering is better for a deeper root system. If you have questions about azaleas post em here!

If you live in the Southeast, this weekend is perfect for pruning your rose bushes, raspberry/blackberry bushes, ornamental grasses and other general clean-up. Its getting warmer during the day, so your perennials should be sending up new growth in the next few weeks. Also as a reminder, do not forget to fertilize your shrubbery by March 1. You want it applied before the new growth emerges!

Happy Valentine's Day! A dozen long stem roses are a perfect way to show that special person in your life that you love them. Here are a few simple tips to help keep those roses alive for days following: 1.) Cut the stems underwater at a 45° angle with a sharp pair of scissors/pruners. 2.) Be sure to use fresh water each and everyday by replacing the water in the vase daily. 3.) Remove all leaves that could be underwater while the rose stems are in the vase. 4.) Keep the roses in a cool, bright, indirect sunlight for as long as possible.

Orchids are perfect for this time of year. They aren't as fussy as many might think. They actually will do fine by themselves in a nice humid, bright, kitchen window without a lot of work. http://www.beautifulorchids.com/orchids/orchids_potted/phalaenopsis/phalaenopsis_care.html

Mulch is one of the biggest reasons your plants survive the harshest of cold and hot weather! Its true, don't believe me? http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/understanding-the-benefits-of-garden-mulch.html

Understanding the Benefits of Garden Mulch - For Dummies Using mulch is a good gardening habit but not mandatory; the benefits, however, make it worth the effort. A really good job of mulching your garden usually offers these

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