The Great Big Greenhouse Gardening Blog

Daffodils, Jonquils, in England “Lent Lilies”—whatever you call them, they’re still the quintessential flower of spring for many people. Daffodils are members of the Amaryllidaceae—the amaryllis family! Relatives include: Agapanthus (Lily-of-the-Nile) Hymenocallis (Peruvian daffodils) Sternbergia (Lily-of-the-Field) Alliums (onion family, including onions, garlic, chives, and ornamental onions) Lycoris (Naked Ladies, Spider Lilies, Surprise Lilies) and, Asparagus! … Read more

Yesterday was Labor Day. Do you know how Labor Day came to be? The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City in 1882. A proposal by the Central Labor Union suggested that a parade take place to show “the strength and spirit de corps of the trade and labor organizations.” This was to … Read more

Organic Insect Solution From Mother Nature Today, August 31, is National Diatomaceous Earth Day. So what is diatomaceous earth? Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of a diatom—single-celled algae. Diatoms are estimated to be responsible for up to 50% of the world’s oxygen. Diatoms surround themselves with a shell made primarily of silica. The fossilized … Read more

In Greek mythology, Iris was a messenger from the gods who traveled to earth on a rainbow. Wherever she stepped, flowers sprang up. Iris means ‘rainbow’—appropriate when bearded iris comes in a vast array of colors from pure white to purple/black—and nearly every color in between. The three upright petals on an iris flower stand … Read more

I’ve had so many customers looking for late summer color—some because they just decided they want to accent that deck, patio or porch, and others because their summer annuals are starting to look a little “tired.” They want pretty fall colors. Pansies and mums are reliable favorites for fall color. There are other plants that … Read more