Summer Garden

Summer Garden

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

'Chicago Hardy' Fig -end of season report


The plant grew nicely this summer with no insect or disease problems to a height of about 27".  The fruit appeared in late July/early August but only one made it through the season.  All the others were very fragile and dropped early. My hope is that the plant's energy went to root growth and leaf support instead of the fruit.  I headed out to take a photo of the prized fig, there just a few hours ago.  It was gone and not on the ground anywhere.  I really think a squirrel took it.  They take bites out of our tomatoes for the water and their southern relatives regularly ran off with just ripe peaches in our Tennessee yard.

The plant is loaded with buds now, but I'll cut it back to the ground for winter.  It will be hard to do but necessary for its survival.  With a layer of mulch and blanket of burlap, it will be protected and insulated during cold months ahead.  I expect it to see healthy growth next year and maybe even a few ripe figs by end of summer!

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

How tall will my lawn grow if I stop mowing?

 
Answer:  About 18" and then the grass becomes too heavy to stand upright.  I don't know if the tall grass was what encouraged a coyote to linger in our yard, but an hour with the weedeater and my experiment was over.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Allium Giganteum

Plant bulbs in the fall for a dramatic spring display.  Leaves will disappear after blooms fade allowing room for summer perennials.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Fig 'Chicago Hardy'

This is my recent purchase from the Morton Arboretum plant sale.  I never thought I could have a fig tree in Glen Ellyn, but now it seems possible.  This variety is called 'Chicago Hardy' and will grow to 6' annually as long as winter protection is provided.  I didn't site it in a particularly warm microclimate as instructed but will be sure to mulch and wrap in burlap this winter.

I'll post updates as the fig grows.  It's about 16" tall now and very healthy.

Friday, May 2, 2014

My favorite places to shop for plants!


Hinsdale Nurseries  7200 South Madison Street, Willowbrook IL 60527  www.hinsdalenurseries.com
Here you can find container plants, perennials (helpful categories on plant signs indicate best conditions for planting perennials -sun, shade, wet & dry conditions), excellent quality shrubs and trees.  I love the way trees are spaced out so there's room to walk through them to make selections.  They will even plant the tree for you.

Planter's Palette  28W571 Roosevelt Road, Winfield IL  60190 
www.planterspalette.com
This nursery grows much of their own material.  You will find an incredible variety of plants and a staff that can help you in your gardening quest.  I'll be purchasing my herbs and vegetables here.

Lurvey Landscape Supply  2550 East Dempster Street, Des Plaines Il 60016  www.lurveys.com
My favorite place for stone...it's not all about the plants:-)  Their plant display is wonderful with great signage too.  It's a great place to learn about what's available for your project.

The Growing Place   25 Plank Rd, Naperville, IL 60563 
www.thegrowingplace.com
A favorite of many clients.  I like to shop for metal trellis and plant supports here.  Take a list if you are plant shopping:) This place is full of temptation.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Garden Soil & Mulch Suppliers in Western Suburbs

After a long winter, it's finally time to enjoy spring gardening.  Here are a few compost, soil & mulch suppliers in the area to get you started!



 
Arugula sprouting in compost.









Tip:  Approximate coverage = One cubic yard of material covers 100 sq. ft. @ 3" depth or 167 sq. ft. @ 2" depth.