Gardening Chores

Irises after flowering can look a bit… tired. One week, they are exploding with those extraordinary ruffled blooms in shades of violet, lavender, buttery cream, sangria purple or fiery copper; the next, you are staring at floppy stalks and leaves that suddenly seem far less glamorous! And if you are new to growing irises, you may think something has gone wrong… “Should I cut ...

Every May I catch myself looking around the garden thinking, this is the moment I should be taking cuttings—and most years, I’m a little late to my own advice. Because right now, everything is in that perfect in-between stage: not too soft and floppy, not tough and woody either. Just right. The kind of growth that roots quickly, settles in fast, and actually turns in...

Why are peonies so charming? Is it because of their large traditional blossoms that take you back to an idyllic past? Or because they are great for bouquets? Their lush and large foliage? Their delicate colors in shades of white, pink, coral or burgundy? Whichever the reason, if you want a really abundant floral display this year, they need some tender loving care as soon as ...