Category «Information»

Relationship Between Plants and Pollinators

Entomophilous flowers are those flowers that require pollination by insects.  Insects have been pollinating flowers for over 100 million years.   In fact, plants have coadapted with insects creating a complex network of interactions.  To compete for the attention of pollinators, flowers have evolved ingenious methods to entice hungry bees, birds, moths, butterflies, and beetles to …

Herbs

California Wonder Peppers - HEIRLOOM. The standard bell pepper for many decades, this 1928 introduction is still the largest open-pollinated, heirloom bell you can grow. A perfect stuffing pepper-blocky 4" x 3 1/2", thick-walled, tender and flavorful. Hungarian Wax Peppers - A Mexican favorite that's four to five times hotter than jalapeno: distinctive, pungent flavor. ...

April Gardening Chores

April monthly chores for planting zone 7b

April is a busy time.  It’s time to start putting your garden plan in place and preparing for a healthy garden. Flower Beds, Trees and Shrubs Fertilize bulbs with a balanced fertilizer after they finish blooming. Divide herbaceous perennials, clumps of bulbs, and ornamental grasses if the garden looks too crowded. Replant at original depthor …

March Garden Chores

March Garden Chores for Zone 7b

March is the time to get those seeds started.  The days will start getting longer, and your house plants will begin to wake up from their winter nap. Flower Beds, Trees and Shrubs Plant bulbs for spring and summer flowers such as dahlia, canna, and gloriosa. Amend beds with organic matter and provide stakes for …

Gardening Basics

Gardening Basics October 21, 2025Think about ‘Leafing’ your Lawn Unraked this FallApril 6, 2025What We Learned: Reusing Plastic Jugs for Seed StartingFebruary 12, 2025Basic Plant Nutrition: Understanding Essential NutrientsOctober 13, 2023Month-by-Month Gardening ChoresOctober 12, 2023Tips for Starting Your Own GardenOctober 12, 2023Methods for Tree GraftingOctober 12, 2023Why a garden journal may become one of your favorite garden ...

Native Plants

Native plants What’s All the Buzz About Natives? I had never considered the important role that native plants play in our surroundings.  However, in preparation for a Master Gardener presentation, I quickly discovered my ignorance regarding this fundamental aspect of gardening. In fact, I learned that by incorporating native plants you can reduce your time and effort ...

How to Manage your Landscape Using Fewer Pesticides

managing your landscape with fewer pesticides Here you will find practical, science-based strategies to help you cultivate a thriving garden while minimizing pest problems and supporting beneficial wildlife. You’ll learn how to assess your soil, choose the right plants for your space, and create growing conditions that naturally discourage pests. We offer tips for improving plant health, encouraging pollinators and predatory ...

February Garden Chores

February is all about prepping for spring.  Now is the time to finalize your garden plans. If you haven’t had your soil tested in the last 3-5 years, stop by the VCE offices to pick up the soil test kit. Flower Beds, Trees and Shrubs Temperatures can drop to freezing this month; annuals that can …

January Garden Chores

January is all about planning what you want to grow this year. Contact seed companies to receive the new catalog or look at your favorite online sites. It is good to start ordering or purchasing seeds as many seed companies will sell out fast. If you haven’t had your soil tested in the last 3-5 …

Horticultural Learning Center

Hanover Virginia Horticultural Learning Center Come visit our Horticultural Learning Center   The garden is a space to learn about growing various plants that thrive in Hanover County through sustainable methods. We aim to demonstrate research-based gardening practices that can be incorporated into your home setting. Exciting News for 2025! We’re thrilled to announce that Waterwise Gardening will be a ...