Echinacea Coneflowers Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the daisy family. It is native to eastern and central North America, where it is found growing in moist to dry prairies and open wooded areas. They have large, showy heads of composite flowers, blooming from early to late summer. The genus name Echinacea derives from the Greek word ‘echino’, meaning sea urchin or hedgehog, referring to the spiky appearance and feel of the flower heads. There are around 9 species of Echinacea, but the most commonly known and used are Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower), … Read more

What to Plant in March in Alabama If you’re like me, you’re anxiously waiting for spring to arrive. The daffodils are starting to peek up through the soil, and the trees are beginning to bud. But even though it’s still chilly outside, that doesn’t mean you can’t start planting in your garden! In this blog post, we will discuss what plants do well in March in Alabama. We’ll also give you a few tips on how to care for them. So if you’re ready to get your hands dirty, keep reading! One of the most important things to remember when … Read more

Gardening with Spring Annuals in Alabama Planting annual plants is a great way to bring color and vibrancy to your garden. But heading to the garden center can be a daunting experience. With so many types of plants, it’s hard to know which ones are right for you and your needs. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, here is a guide to help you choose the best plants at your garden center. The first step in choosing the best plants is knowing what climate zone your home is located in. Northern Alabama is currently zone 7 and … Read more

If you’re an Alabamian looking to plant potatoes, the timing of your planting is essential. Plant too soon and the cold temperatures may cause damage to the crop; plant too late and there may not be enough time for a successful harvest before Summer temperatures. Fortunately, with a little knowledge and planning, you can ensure that your potato-planting project will yield a bountiful harvest. When To Plant Potatoes In Alabama The best time to plant potatoes in Alabama is typically between early February and early March. This gives them plenty of time to fully develop before the hot summer months … Read more

The Truth About Fertilizer: Debunking the Myths There are a lot of myths created by marketing companies about fertilizer. Marketing has convinced people that it is some kind of magical substance that will make their plants grow big and strong overnight. The truth is, however, that fertilizer is just like any other tool- it can be used effectively or it can be misused. In this blog post, we will debunk the marketing myths about fertilizer and discuss how you can use it to improve your garden! What do the fertilizer numbers really mean? All growing plants need essential elements to … Read more

Hardy Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Swamp Mallow, Hibiscus moscheutos If you’re looking for a beautiful, long-blooming flower to add to your garden, look no further than the hardy hibiscus! These magnificent blooms come in a variety of colors, and can be grown in almost any climate. In this blog post, we will discuss how to grow and care for these flowers. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right variety for your needs. So read on to learn more about these amazing plants! What are Hardy Hibiscus? Hardy hibiscus are a type of flowering plant that is native to tropical and … Read more

When to Plant Peach Trees in Alabama When selecting a peach tree to grow in your garden, it is important to choose the variety that is best suited for your area and purpose. Peach trees are originally from China and can be temperamental with their blossoms. Some peach trees are more suitable for fresh eating, while others are better for canning and making preserves. There are hundreds of peach varieties, each one adapted to a particular region or purpose. Peach trees are best planted November until March in Alabama. Choosing the Right Peach Tree Don’t bother with a tree that … Read more

When to Plant Okra in Alabama Okra or Lady’s finger is a popular vegetable that is widely grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions across the world. It has been a staple food for many people in African, Asian and Indian communities for centuries. With regular care and right growing conditions, okra plants can be productive throughout the Alabama growing season, even during summer months. The key to growing okra successfully in your garden is selecting the right variety that suits the climatic conditions of your area. We’ve selected Clemson Spineless & Okinawa Pink for Alabama. The plant thrives in warm … Read more

When to Plant Strawberries in Alabama Before you start planting strawberry plants, it’s important to check their hardiness zone. Strawberries are a perennial plant that can be grown year round in zones 5-9. For zones 4 & 10, strawberries are considered an annual plant which means they must be replanted each year. Check out this list of states with their corresponding strawberry hardiness zone! Alabama is Zone 7. In this blog post, we’ll look at the strawberry planting zone and how to successfully plant strawberries. We will also discuss what causes frost and why it is important to protect your … Read more

Here’s our choices of the best flowering plants to grow in Alabama for Spring… Calibrachoa Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is a trailing petunia that is also known as Million Bells and Seaside Petunia. It’s a happy little plant that blooms prolifically all summer and performs its best under the summer sun. Calibrachoa won’t wilt in the heat like many other varieties of petunias, making it a great choice for a sunny, organic garden. Sunpatien Garden success has never been simpler with easy-to-plant, easy-to-grow SunPatiens. The thicker petals and tough foliage are less prone to disease, and their strong sturdy stems tolerate … Read more

Growing Calibrachoa Organically Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is a trailing petunia that is also known as Million Bells and Seaside Petunia. It’s a happy little plant that blooms prolifically all summer and performs its best under the summer sun. Calibrachoa won’t wilt in the heat like many other varieties of petunias, making it a great choice for a sunny, organic garden. Planting Location The more sun calibrachoa receivies, the more blooms they will produce. Select a location that is in full sun. Plants grow equally well when planted in-ground or in containers, but will produce runners that need space to trail … Read more

Growing Zinnia Organically Zinnias (Zinnia elegans) have been around for a long time and for good reason; their large, long-lasting blooms and care-free growing habits. The layers of colorful petals which make up each bloom are long-lasting when left in the garden or when used as a cut flower. Heat resistant and drought tolerant, zinnias make a perfect addition to an organic garden. Planting Location Choose a location that is in full sun and has well draining soil. Work some compost or humus into the soil before planting to ensure soil is fertile and drains efficiently. Prepare Soil Zinnias aren’t … Read more

Ornamental sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) vines don’t produce edible vegetables, but they do produce an attractive vine. The vine is suitable for use as a houseplant or for growing in an outside hanging basket. They thrive in the intense heat of summer and come in a wide range of colors. Their easy-care nature and low-growing vining habits make them a great addition to an organic garden. When planted among taller shrubs and plants, ornamental sweet potato vines act as a living mulch that helps retain soil moisture and keep weeds from growing. Planting Location The more sun these colorful vines … Read more

Growing Geraniums Organically The popular and colorful geranium (Pelargonium) is a sure sign that summer has arrived. Geraniums come in many forms, colors and growing heights with well over 400 species of plants that are in the family of Cranesbills. Easy-to-grow plant thrives in an organic garden and will provide bloom color all summer. Geraniums are considered to be an annual, but typically behave as a perennials when grown organically. Growing Location Select a sunny location that has well-draining soil. Geraniums grow well in containers or when planted in-ground. Geraniums should be planted on the day of purchase, so it’s … Read more