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November Shrub of the Month-Staghorn Sumac
We explore another sumac this month-Rhus typhina, or staghorn sumac. Like the other sumacs, staghorn sumac forms colonies frequently found along roadsides or embankments. Unlike its cousin aromatic sumac, staghorn sumac can grow…
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November Perennial of the Month-Blue star
It might seem odd to feature a spring-blooming perennial for November, but look at that golden fall color! Not many perennials give so much; flowers, structure, fall color, texture, and winter interest…blue star…
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The Fall and Halloween Displays of St. Louis-2022
Who doesn’t love fall in St. Louis? The passion for the season is apparent indoors and out as we say farewell to the warm temps (and humidity), and welcome cool nights, warm clothes,…
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October Perennial of the Month-Kalimeris
Some people think white is boring, but white flowers have a place in almost any garden color scheme. White being neutral, is not technically a color-it’s not on the color wheel. So, what…
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October Shrub of the Month-Fragrant sumac
Don’t touch it! The sneaky fragrant sumac, Rhus aromatica, and its trifoliate leaves have fooled many. At first glance, the arrangement of three leaflets looks very similar to poison ivy. This friendly, low-growing…
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October Tree of the Month-Ash
This post isn’t just Tree of the Month; it’s a Love letter to my sentimental favorite, the ash tree. I grew up with two white ash trees, Fraxinus americana, one male and one female,…
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Garden-Lou Visits the Garden of Dawn and John Frierdich
Dawn and John Frierdich’s back garden might lack in size, but it makes up for its small scale with the three “C’s”, color, coziness, and creativity. Ample layers of color, unique details, and…
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Garden-Lou Visits DIG Annuals and Perennials
Tucked onto a 1/3 acre lot just steps away from the busy corner of Gravois and Arsenal is a quiet powerhouse of productivity, DIG Annuals and Perennials. The vacant lot was full of…
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A conversation with Deborah Lalumondier, Senior Horticulturist in the Climatron at Missouri Botanical Garden
She’s been watering, pruning, weeding, selecting plants, and dealing with pests in the Climatron for 40 years. But Deborah Lalulmondier will tell you, “I’m not the boss; I’m just bossy.” Deb retires at…
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September Perennial of the Month-Pink turtlehead
I love plants that shine in late summer or autumn! After the trials of a typical St. Louis Summer, most plants show some wear and tear, so it’s refreshing to see a beautiful…