Alan’s January & February Garden Tips
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“Rain, rain, please stay, don’t go away!!
Bare Root Roses: After dormant pruning all the roses, one’s greatest reward is adding a new rose bush to your garden!!
My favorite English roses, all based on color and fragrance: “The Generous Gardener,” “Princess Alexandra of Kent,” and “Munstead Wood.”
Favorite Weeks Roses: “All My Loving” after the Beatle’s song. New from Downton Abbey for 2017, “Violets Pride” and “Edith’s Darling.” Last year’s huge success, “Anna’s Promise” and Pretty Lady Rose.”
“What’s that flower in bloom this month?” All over town we have noticed Camellias and Saucer Magnolias from China and Japan in full display. Oriental Hellebores and Razzleberri bushes are also putting on a spectacle!! Joining in are Grevilleas from Australia along with old fashion pink Geralton Wax flowers. As you walk around your neighborhood enjoy these beautiful blooms and get inspired!
Pruning: Winter also brings us the perfect time to prune our dormant Japanese Maples. ou will need a sharp pruning shear and a lopper or folding saw for thicker cuts.
The idea is to prune away the older dead wood and thin out areas that have branches crossing. Take a step back during the pruning process to make sure you are helping to balance your tree’s growth. Some of you folks may have a “Crimson Queen” or cascading variety that requires a downward pruning style.
Time and patience are required, but by spring the rewards are wonderful!
Plant of the month: Helleborus Orientalis, “Lenten Rose” This evergreen perennial is a fantastic addition to the shade area of your garden. It gets up to 1 ½ ft tall and is “clump-forming.” You will be delighted by its beautiful winter blooms! A native of Greece & Turkey, this plant will attract birds, bees & butterflies to your garden.