Search Results for: blog combating the black spot

Combating the Black Spot

In a previous blog I shared a story about my grandfather’s award-winning roses. I also shared memories of the countless days I spent helping him cultivate his prize-winning specimens. He poured so much time and energy into creating those spectacular rose gardens, but his efforts went beyond physically tending to the fragrant flowers. He also spent hours sitting on his recliner reading books about roses. His research helped him create the right environment to maximize growth and it also taught him how to identify and combat a rose bush’s many “enemies.” One of the most common and problematic diseases facing … Continue reading →

Winter Gardening

We just got pounded by a major winter storm that dumped more than a foot of snow on our front lawn. It certainly dashed our hopes of an early spring. But, it did nothing to dampen the spirits of our neighbor who spent about 20 minutes today telling me all about the delicious herbs and vegetables she was growing in her year-round garden (this as we both shoveled paths from the sidewalk to our respective front doors.) Honestly, it never dawned on me to relocate my outdoor plants indoors. The idea of digging up, potting plants, and hoping they flourish … Continue reading →

10 Tips For The Beginner Gardener

Summer’s bountiful crops have served as the inspiration for many of my recent blogs. But, today it dawned on me that some of you might not have a garden. Or, perhaps, you really have no desire to grow one. I would hope that this is not the case. But, if it is, consider this blog an attempt to persuade you to think otherwise. Believe me, a few years ago I would have been considered the ultimate reluctant gardener, but once you see (and eat) the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor, I guarantee you will be hooked. If you have … Continue reading →

Top Five Ways To Protect Your Roses From The Summer Heat

I don’t need to tell you how hot it is here in the Midwest. I’m sure you are sweating it out in your own neck of the woods. For residents in the United States and Europe, Mother Nature has made this summer one for the record books. Few have been spared from the ongoing oppressive heat wave that has blanketed hundreds of cities. The hot days and humid nights have undoubtedly taken their toll on you, your children, your pets and your yard. And, what it has done to delicate flowers, well, words like “singe,” “bake,” and “broil,” fail to … Continue reading →

Picking The Right Rose

In previous blogs I shared a few stories about my grandfather’s prize-winning rose garden. If my thumb is the least bit green it is due in large part to my grandfather’s mentoring. He had such a passion for gardening and even though he is no longer alive to tend to his “pride and joy” the lessons he taught me live on. That is especially true about the tips he gave me about raising roses. My grandfather firmly believed that no matter what size the garden, there’s always room for a rosebush. I know, I know, easier said than done. But, … Continue reading →