Benefits of Snow Cover

Though most of us think of the hazards related to accumulated snow fall, as gardeners we need to look at snow a little differently and somewhat positively. Snow cover, similar to the 24-40 plus inches we had in 2007 provided benefits to our soil, plants and shrubs. Primarily, snow cover acts as an excellent insulator of the soil. Snow cover helps keep the soil from freezing deeper and deeper thus preventing root damage. Second, with enough snow to cover small …

Overwintering Rosemary Indoors

Most herbs taste much better fresh, and rosemary is no exception. That’s why every winter I try to keep my rosemary alive in a pot inside the house. Rosemary really pairs well with roasted lamb, garlic, and olive oil. It is also a nice addition to potatoes, bread, tomato sauce, pizza, and pork, but you might want to use a light hand because the flavor can be strong. Rosemary does best in a sunny, southern or possibly western window, where …

Planting Spring Bulbs

A host of golden daffodils… Fluttering and dancing in the breeze. ~William Wordsworth Many of my early spring memories evolve around neat little gardens filled with hyacinth, tulips and daffodils. When I was just a kid, one of our neighbors prided herself on her selection of bulbs: one tulip, one daffodil and one hyacinth planted at 10 inch intervals along her walkway. I couldn’t wait to see those flowers bloom every spring. Times have changed and now I like to …