Plant of the Week
Native to the southern states, the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), is known for its long pinecones. The largest pine cones found on east coast evergreens, they grow up to 10 inches and make wonderful Christmas decorations. Ranging from 80 to 100 feet tall with a lifespan of approximately 250 years, the longleaf pine is a regal presence along the southeastern coast.
Guest
This week, I chatted with Chris Jones, assistant grounds superintendent at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina. A landscaping veteran with 17 years on the job, Chris manages gardens on a large scale—over a 100 acres! Each year he oversees a beautiful selection of charming annual beds and pots, hosting stunning combinations including salvia, coleus, azaleas and sedum angelinas. Thankfully, the abundance of pine straw saves Chris some time by providing great understory and natural landscaping. Even if you don’t golf, Pinehurst Resort is worth a visit thanks to the hard work of landscapers like Chris!
Playlist
Harvest your hydrangeas.
Cut your annabelles early and often to enjoy another bloom 6 weeks later.
Are your daylilies looking brown and tatty? Prune away to encourage fresh, spring-like growth.
Check your iris tubers and peonies—make sure they haven’t been covered with mulch.
Pinch your annuals once a month for new growth and flowers.
Listen
Fine Gardening Podcast: Let’s Argue About Plants.