Monday, August 15, 2011

Magnificent Milkweed!

When it comes to the topic of intriguing plants, Milkweed (Asclepias) should definitely be included in the conversation. It also deserves a spot in your landscape as it is the only host plant for monarch larvaes which we all know turns into the beautiful monarch butterfly!


Why is milkweed so magnificent? The monarch larvae feed off the sap from the leaves, which is very toxic to most other insects, however to the monarch larvae it is what protects them from predators as it helps to make their bodies brightly colored, which says, "STAY AWAY" to predators.





While monarchs are the number one insect that feed off of milkweed, you may have seen another insect enjoying the sap from your plant as well. This is the "Red Milkweed Beetle". Again, a brightly colored insect that warns others to keep away.


In spring, Milkweed yields a beautiful bright flower that ranges from red, pink to orange.


Milkweed is easy to grow in well drained soil and in a sunny to partly shady location. It's an easily reseeded plant as later in summer, early fall, the plant will form a large pod that bursts open with large seeds that can be shared with your friends or simply spread to other areas of your garden!

Friday, August 5, 2011

August Landscaping Tips!


•Continue weeding, watering during dry spells

•Stop pruning trees and shrubs

•Don't fertilize after mid-August

•Continue dead-heading flowers to prolong bloom time

•Cut hollyhocks down to ground after blooming

•Add fall perennials to garden

•Seed new lawns after August 15th. Best time of year to seed is generally from August 15th through October 15th.

Don't forget to take a step back and enjoy all your hard work!