Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 133
May 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

What Hummingbirds really want

While flower nectar is important for hummingbirds, they need more than nectar-rich plants to survive. Help them by providing suitable native habitat with places to nest and forgo the use of pesticides to ensure that their main food source, protein-rich bugs are abundant. It is mesmerizing to watch a hummingbird gathering nectar from flowers. If you are close enough, there’s no mistaking the whirring sound of the wings as the bird hovers in place. Out comes it’s long tongue-like proboscis, reaching deep inside each flower to access the nectar. Sometimes they take in so much nectar they spit the excess out in a little spray! Sensing a good food source, bees, butterflies, and other hummingbirds may approach, but the feeding hummingbird will chase them off, as they are very territorial.

Cardinal Flower

Which flowers do hummingbirds like and why do they favor certain flowers within a garden even when many varieties are available? Hummingbirds have co-evolved with certain flower species. Many of these flowers have long, tubular structures including cardinal flower and columbine, perfectly suited to the unusual shape of the hummingbird’s beak. In turn, hummingbirds may provide pollination services. Also, timing is everything. Nectar supply varies throughout blooming cycles. Hummingbirds and other nectar consumers will seek out the best supply available. When one flower species has peaked, they find another. But nectar is just one part of their survival.

Bee balm

Hummingbirds feed on nectar-rich flowers but they also need protein and lots of it to sustain their intense flying. The main staple of a hummingbird’s diet are protein-rich insects. The bulk of their intake are invertebrates like insects, spiders, and various larvae. To have a garden with lots of protein-rich bugs, you need diversity. This means an assortment of native trees, shrubs, and flowers along with fresh water and unadulterated soil (soil that will support microscopic organisms) When you think about providing a welcoming garden for hummingbirds, along with the right flowers for nectar, consider the bigger picture.

Are there places to nest and shelter in trees and shrubs?
Is there a diverse selection of plants to support the food web?
Is the area pesticide and herbicide-free?
Do you have healthy, fertile soil?
Is fresh water available?

A hot topic is the issue of domestic cats and their impact on our wild birds. We can’t stop natural predators, but reducing non-native threats benefits all wild things. I have always had cats, and for many years allowed them to be indoor/outdoor pets. I stopped this practice about 20 years ago, when the alarm went out as to the damage cats can do to our wild bird population. I absolutely think this has increased the population of birds in my yard, and I don’t miss dealing with the fleas and ticks they inevitably picked up. And yes, cats are quick enough to catch hummingbirds, I had a Ginger tomcat who brought me a very dazed hummingbird once; fortunately, it recovered to fly another day.

Foxglove

Some suggestions for favorite Hummingbird flowers: Beebalm, Salvia, Phlox, Penstemon, Lupine, Lantana, Bleeding heart, Coral Bells, Foxgloves, Hollyhocks, Cleome, Catmint, Verbena, just to name a few easy to grow species.

May’s to-do list

It’s not yet May as I begin to write, and I’ve already had to irrigate a flower bed during last week’s 2-day heatwave. The MA drought Monitor: https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MA
is indicating eastern MA, and south Berkshire County as being in the ‘abnormally dry’ range. Additionally, the weather pattern known as ‘El Nino’, (this global weather phenomenon refers to: when waters in the Pacific Ocean become much warmer than usual) is predicted to effect us during 2023-24; potentially bringing record breaking heat (more than 2022?). I’m strategizing now for our summer ahead, considering the optimum ways to utilize, yet conserve water. It’s become apparent how last year’s drought combined with the relatively snowless and mild winter (our soil never froze solid) has affected some flowering species. According to the UMASS Amherst extension service, the short period of minus zero temperatures in February was enough to injure the flower buds or cause sparse flowering on various types of plants. I’ll miss seeing my favorite weeping Cherry bloom and will mourn the lack of peaches this summer.

Be on the lookout for the invasive pest known as spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). It has been reported in multiple locations throughout the state, including as close as Springfield. Spotted lanternfly is a sap-feeding insect that has caused significant impacts to vineyards, orchards, and other agricultural commodities in states where it has become established. SLF will also attack maples, hops, blueberries, and over 100 other host plants. Females will lay their egg masses on any flat surface and have been unwittingly transported across the northeast.
Report any suspected sightings here: https://massnrc.org/pests/slfreport.aspx

With the unusually mild winter and warm spring, ticks are very active in our environment right now. May is tick awareness month, and we should all be practicing tick safety. It’s hard to avoid ticks, but we can up our game against them. If you have access to a clothes dryer, you can run your gardening clothes on hot for 10 minutes to kill any hitchhikers or quarantine the clothes in a bag outside. Check yourself, and your family and pets after spending time outdoors. Take precautions to protect your family, visitors, and your pets. Invest in a tick I.D and removal kit and familiarize yourself with early onset symptoms of Lyme disease in humans as well as pets. White-footed Mice are the primary hosts of tick-borne diseases, other small mammals usually groom (eat) any ticks they find in their fur, but not mice. Anything you can do to eliminate mice in your yard will go a long way to decreasing the tick population. Our common Opossum is known for seeking out and devouring ticks. Countryside offers many options for tick management; please contact our spray program manager, Scott Higley for more information. scott@countrysidelandscape.net

The only upside to the dry and mild winter was I was able to plant peas on Patriot’s Day, as well as lettuce, arugula, beets, and radish. Surprisingly, my Arugula rustica plants overwintered intact and are sprouting fresh leaves. This is a wild form that develops smaller, more incised leaves than the other cultivars, and is super hardy! There is still time to get some peas in the ground before hot weather commences. Just be sure to look for the varieties with an early harvest period. Packages will be imprinted with the approximate days until harvest. They don’t need anything as formal as a trellis to climb onto, you can poke 4’ long brushy twigs into the ground as you plant your peas, and they will readily twine onto them.

Consider pausing from mowing your yard this month as we are promoting No-Mow May to raise awareness of the need for conserving early blooming plants as a food source for our native pollinators. Consider the lowly Dandelion- Dandelions may be considered a weed, but they are nature’s little powerhouse. One of the first flowers to bloom in spring, Dandelions provide much needed nectar and pollen for bees before other types of flowers bloom. The early leaves make a tasty addition to salads and veggie dishes, and pack over 300% of your daily requirement of vitamin A, and are rich in antioxidants, minerals, and other compounds vital for good health. Their bitter flavor is reminiscent of Arugula. Be sure you collect Dandelion leaves in areas you are sure are not sprayed with chemicals.

2023 is predicted to be another year for serious infestation of the Spongy Moth (formerly the Gypsy Moth) in Berkshire County. The time to act to minimize the damage is now. There are several strategies available to help combat this pest. Please contact Scott Higley for more information scott@countrysidelandscape.net

Please contact our office for help with spring chores or information about tick and pest control. (413) 458-5586 or info@countrysidelandscape.net

Garden ideas for summer 2023!

You’d think nothing new can possibly be developed in landscape gardening? Not true! Like a living garden, it is constantly growing and evolving. Some ideas stick around, and others seem to wax and wane as the years go by. Here are some interesting ideas for the 2023 gardening season.

Gravel Gardens:
We will be seeing even more of these easy-to-plan and care for outdoor spaces. Gravel gardens also provide a place to experiment with xeriscaping, creating the perfect place for drought-tolerant varieties such as grasses and sedums. Think of stone chips or pebbles instead of organic mulch. Utilize color and texture to emphasize garden elements.

Drought-tolerant plants:
What we choose to plant in our gardens is demanding extra thought and consideration as temperatures rise and rainfall dries up. Prioritize using a palette of tough native plants that will be reliable and resilient. Important factors in plant choice will be drought tolerance, native plant communities and all-year-round color and interest, but plants should also be good for pollinating insects and wildlife.

Vertical gardening:
Try placing climbers in planters with adequate soil depth and width, creating a vertical garden in a much more manageable way. Consider using traditional espalier techniques to create geometrical patterns on walls using climbing plants and exploring ways of highlighting the vertical elevations of a garden, rather than just being a backdrop for a feature plant.

Late summer bloomers:
Changing weather patterns are impacting seasonal planting plans and for 2023 this means a updated a trend – late summer bloomers, the plants which come into their own as August turns to September and continue producing an impressive display until the first frosts arrive. Seek out varieties that will flower later in the season, say from August onwards as summers are getting longer with the onset of autumn now only happening later in the fall.

Growing your own cut flowers:
We can’t get enough flowers! Pick-your-own flower stands are popping up in every community. Try starting your own cutting garden. Many common annuals and perennials make excellent cut flowers. Daisies, Larkspur, Coneflowers, Zinnias, Coreopsis, Salvias, Hydrangeas are easy to grow and cut for bouquets.

Vegetable gardens:
Growing your own produce became a new hobby for some people during the pandemic lockdown. Fortunately, it is not just a passing fad, and many continue the healthy trend of growing and preserving their own food. Additionally, this is also a money saving endeavor in these times of rising food costs. You just can’t beat the taste of freshly harvested herbs and veggies.

Thinking ahead…

I think flowering vines are underused in our gardens. Not all vines need to be vertical; some species of vining plants are very happy to scramble across the ground unsupported. Growing up or out, vines can be useful to camouflage a bare spot, and fill in a space until new shrubs can fill out. There are great choices for flowering vines in both annual and perennial categories.

Clematis x ‘Betty Corning’ is an easy, and long blooming fragrant variety, in a family of perennial vines otherwise known for their fussiness. Betty falls within pruning type 3, so grows and blooms on new growth generated each season. She does prefer consistently cool and moist soil, plan to mulch the roots well, or grow some groundcover type plants over the roots to keep them shaded. Betty Corning grows 6-10 ft tall and will bloom late June through September. Full to part sun.

Clematis x ‘Betty Corning’

Tropaeolum majus-Trailing Nasturtium Trailing annual nasturtiums are a great choice for growing in a window box or hanging basket, as their vines will drape and climb beautifully. This climbing and draping habit also works to fill in bare areas or cover embankments. An important feature of all nasturtiums is their edibility! Nasturtiums’ leaves, flowers, and seedpods have a peppery, almost mustard-like taste, which makes them lovely as a garnish in salads. Plant nasturtiums in full sun (6+ hours of sunlight) for the best results. Grows 6-10 ft.

Nasturtiums growing on an embankment

Hydrangea anomala petiolaris-Climbing Hydrangea If you have a fence or wall to cover, Climbing Hydrangea may be the plant for you. It requires some support, until it becomes established, thereafter it will attach itself to structures using its vegetative ‘holdfasts’. Climbing Hydrangeas will vigorously grow 30-80 ft at maturity. Prefers moist soil, but will tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from full shade through full sun.

Climbing Hydrangea

Ipomoea purpurea-Morning Glory’s twining trumpet shaped flowers are a welcome sight on a sunny summer morning. These annual tropical (warm weather loving) vines will grow and bloom vigorously with barely any care at all; except to provide something for them to climb on. They need no additional water or fertilizer, so are perfect for hot dry areas with poor soil. One heirloom variety, Grandpa Ott, is reliably hardy to reseed itself every year. Requires full sun, and will grow 6-12 ft.

Morning Glories

Lonicera sempervirens-‘Trumpet Honeysuckle’ is our native perennial honeysuckle vine much beloved by pollinators. Trumpet honeysuckle gets it’s common name from having long, tubular red flowers, which attract a wide variety of visitors including hummingbirds and long tongued insects. One of the showiest and longest-blooming honeysuckles, it does best in full sun when supported on structures like trellises and arbors. Moderately drought tolerant once established, best flowering is in full sun, but can stand part shade. Grows 10-15 ft.

Trumpet Honeysuckle

April 2023 Newsletter

April 1, 2023 by sharonmahoney

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 132
April 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Save your back with no-till gardening!

I’ve been researching ways to conserve labor in the garden. My hand arthritis has made some tasks difficult, but I absolutely want to keep growing my garden. I’ve become very interested in the concept of no-till gardening. Instead of wrangling the garden beds with a tiller, shovels and rakes, you let nature do the heavy lifting. You can reap all the benefits of traditional gardening without the labor-intensive work.
Some of the benefits of no-till gardening:

Building a healthy soil ecosystem that naturally supports pollinators, insects, birds, and other animals.
Cultivating rich, healthy soil with excellent structure and tilth.
Reducing weeds because seeds remain buried under compost rather than getting tilled to the soil surface where they sprout.
Increasing the soil’s water-holding capacity makes your garden more drought-resistant.
Decreasing the time and effort needed to tend your garden because there’s no need for tilling, and weeding and watering are reduced.
Sequestering carbon. No-dig gardens retain carbon in the soil, which helps mitigate climate change.

While it might seem a wild idea to grow a garden without digging, take a moment to consider how forests and meadows grow in nature with no help from us. Leaf litter and debris from trees, grasses, and other plants fall to the ground, where it collects, forming a blanket of organic matter. It’s the organic matter that feeds the topsoil and the ecosystem living within the soil. Birds, worms, insects, moles, and microbes (fungi and bacteria) work together to transform organic matter into soil. As these creatures go about their daily lives eating, depositing waste, reproducing, moving seeds, and tunneling, they naturally aerate the soil and help transform organic matter into dark, nutrient-dense soil called humus.

No dig regenerative gardening builds and creates soil by mimicking nature’s system: organic matter falls to the earth, and the biodiversity living above ground and in the soil does the rest of the work. The sheeting method is a quick way to start a new no-till bed. You will be creating the perimeter of the bed with 2×6’s cut to your desired length, (if you’re a garden newbie, best to start small 3’x3’ is nice, otherwise a 4’x8’ bed) overlap sheets of cardboard to lay under each wooden bed (a good way to re-purpose all those Amazon boxes) and enough compost to fill each wooden frame. Secure the 2×6’s in place with bricks, rocks, or stakes. Water the cardboard layer well before you add the compost to the frame. If you already have raised beds, you can begin no-till gardening by layering cardboard on top of the soil and adding 2-4” of compost onto the existing bed.

This new bed can be planted immediately. You will want to minimize opening up the soil as much as possible, only create a small hole into the compost to plant your transplants. The weeds or grass under the cardboard will begin to decompose, and the cardboard itself will soften in a few weeks enough for the plant roots to grow through it. If a weed pops up, rather than yank it out, starve it by cutting the stem and all the leaves right down to the root; disabling its ability to feed itself. Pulling creates pathways and more opportunities for weed seeds to germinate. You can mulch the beds by applying additional compost, grass clippings or straw, or using physical barrier such as landscape fabric (which can be use multiple times) Every fall spread a 2-inch layer of fresh compost on the beds to top them up. This is simple by design, nothing mysterious about the process-and it works!

April’s to-do list

The wild swings in our recent weather surely typify the old adage, “If you don’t like the weather in New England, wait a minute, and it will change.” It’s the first day of spring as I begin to write. Clear blue skies and strong sun has melted most of the snow, from last week’s storm, leaving behind the green shoots of daffodils. I am more than ready to get going and begin the spring rituals we do as gardeners: raking, staking, digging.

Ticks will become active at temperatures above 39’F. As you start your garden cleanup, be mindful that ticks may lurk in the fallen leaf litter. Ticks will often crawl towards the tips of tall grass or low branches and wait for a new host to brush past, so they can quickly latch on and attach themselves to you, your pets or children. Ticks are most active between April and October, peaking June through August. Take precautions when working or playing outdoors; long-sleeves, long pants, and use an insect repellent. Modify your landscape to minimize areas where the tick’s hosts will live (deer mice) and where ticks can propagate. We offer several types of tick control products, designed to kill ticks and control their hosts. Please contact Scott Higley, (scott@countrysidelandscape.net) at our office, for more information.

Prune ‘Paniculata’ and ‘Annabelle’ type Hydrangeas now, (They bloom yearly at the tips of new growth) as well as all summer and fall blooming shrubs. Wait until after bloom to prune Lilacs, Viburnums, Rhododendrons, and other spring flowering shrubs. Prune Roses this month, for the best June blooms. Begin pruning rosebushes as the buds begin to swell. This helps to identify living from dead wood. Prune away small twigs less than the diameter of a pencil, and any broken, diseased, or inward growing branches. Make your cut above an outward facing bud or node to keep the center of the plant open and airy. Prune Climbing roses and heirloom (non-repeat blooming) roses after they bloom, so as not to interrupt their bloom cycle. Roses are rejuvenated after a hard spring pruning and will be more vigorous.

Begin digging and dividing any perennials you didn’t get to last fall. Doing this early, and in cool weather, lessens transplant shock, with minimal effect on their blooming. Please be sure your flower bed is dry enough to work in; to test the soil, squeeze a ball of soil tightly in your hand, and then release. Poke the soil ball with your finger, if the ball ‘shatters’ it is dry enough to work. If the ball stays together, wait a bit longer for the soil to dry out.

April is a great time to start planting early veggie seeds. Even if your beds aren’t ready, you can grow so many kinds of greens in containers. Lettuce, arugula, kale and the mesclun mixes all love cool weather. Whether you sow your seeds in beds or containers, I sow them in 3–4-inch bands thickly, like you were heavily applying black pepper; cover with ¼ inch of fine soil and keep consistently moist. In 30 days or sooner, you will be able to clip the leaves as you need them for salads or sautés. Harvesting by clipping some of the leaves, instead of pulling the whole plant allows you to get additional harvests from one sowing.

If you have a compost pile begin digging and spreading that black gold around your plants and garden beds to nourish the soil. Compost can boost the fertility of your soil by adding additional organic matter and beneficial microbes to your hard-working soil. Compost has also been shown to increase a plant’s resistance to disease. If you don’t already compost your kitchen waste, it is an easy way to cut down on what you send to the landfill, and there is no odor or flies.

We can help lighten your load; start your garden beds, prune your trees and shrubs, and clean up your yard. Please give our office a call. (413) 458-5586 or email: info@countrysidelandscape.net

April 28, 2023 is Arbor Day; plant a tree!

What’s not to love about a tree? Nine reasons to plant more trees!

Trees fight climate change
Wish you could do more than recycling and reducing your carbon footprint to combat climate change? Trees have you covered. Through photosynthesis, trees absorb harmful carbon dioxide, removing and storing the carbon and releasing oxygen back into the air.

Trees clean the air and help you breathe
Trees don’t just absorb CO2. They also absorb odors and pollutants like nitrogen oxides, ammonia, sulfur dioxide and ozone. It’s estimated that one tree can absorb nearly 10 pounds of polluted air each year and release 260 pounds of oxygen.

Trees prevent soil erosion and rainwater runoff
During heavy rains, water runoff finds its way to streams, lakes and wetlands, creating the potential for flooding. It also picks up and carries pollutants along the way. The EPA and the Center for Watershed Protection are recognizing the importance of trees in managing runoff. Leaf canopies help buffer the falling rain and their roots hold the soil in place, encouraging the water to seep into the ground rather than run off.

Planting trees is easy
Gardening can be intimidating for newbies because there are so many variables. Which plants and flowers should you put next to each other, and which should you separate? Which bloom in the summer and which bloom in the fall? When you’re dealing with trees, there’s none of that. Just choose a spot in your yard and you’re good to go.

You’ll save money
Trees conserve energy in summer and winter, providing shade from the hot summer sun and shelter from cold winter winds. With trees standing between you and the elements, you’ll spend less on your energy bill to heat and cool your home.

Trees increase your home’s value
Studies of comparable homes with and without trees show that, if you have trees in your yard, your home’s value increases by up to 15 percent. It’s all about curb appeal, and trees make your home and yard more beautiful.

You’ll attract birds (and other creatures)
Trees provide nesting sites, food, and shelter for your bird friends. Hang a feeder in one of the branches and enjoy the birdsong all year long. Squirrels love to make their homes in trees, too, and watching their antics is a great way to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

Trees are good for your mental and physical health
A view of trees in urban areas has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety and even the crime rate. Tree-filled gardens on hospital grounds speed healing in hospital patients.

You’ll be giving your descendants a gift
Trees can live hundreds of years, so when you plant one, you’re giving a gift to your children and grandchildren. It’s a symbol of your commitment to the environment and the beauty of the world around you that will live on far beyond your own lifetime.

Thinking ahead…

Flowering Cherry trees (Prunus spp) in bloom, create one of the most beautiful shows in the spring. These blooms often last no more than two weeks. They are so enchanting, some people will track their bloom stages using digital maps; so they an view them at their peak flowering. Flowering Cherries (Sakura) are also considered a symbol of renewal and the ephemeral nature of life. Cherry trees offer colorful autumn leaves, handsome bark, and quick growth, while requiring little care, making them ideal for home gardens. Flowering cherry trees are versatile and will fit in with many garden styles including Japanese style gardens, Zen gardens, cottage and country gardens. Not to be confused with fruiting cherries, Flowering cherries may produce some fruit, so sour, that only birds will eat them.

Prunus yedoensis ‘Yoshino Cherry’ has very pale blush to white flowers in early spring. This variety is renowned for their springtime bloom in Washington DC. Grows 25-35 ft tall, does best with well drained soil in full sun. Bright yellow fall leaf color.

‘Yoshino Cherry’

Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’ Weeping Higan Cherry produces magenta pink buds that open to pink double flowers. The downward weeping, slender branches form a very graceful tree; giving the illusion of movement even when they are still. Grows 15-20 ft tall. Breathtaking when planted near a reflecting pool or pond.

Weeping Higan Cherry

Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’ Kwanzan flowering cherry has masses of deep pink, very double flowers, and no fruit. Shiny bronze colored bark enhances the appeal of this lovely flowering tree. Grows 10-15 ft tall. Develops yellow-orange-bronze fall leaf color.

Kwanzan flowering cherry

Prunus serrulata ‘Mt. Fuji’ Mt. Fuji flowering cherry-Pure white semi-double flowers are mildly fragrant too. One of the few flowering cherries that will tolerate part-shade conditions. Grows 15-20 ft tall. Good orange-red fall leaf color.

Mt. Fuji flowering cherry

March 2023 Newsletter

March 1, 2023 by sharonmahoney

February 2023 Newsletter

February 1, 2023 by sharonmahoney

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 130
February 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

No Mow May; What Is It and How to Participate

By Karen Sutherland Director of Horticulture: Countryside Landscape & Design

The idea of “no mow May” is gaining popularity, and rightly so; this tagline has come to the forefront to bring awareness to the value of pollinators in our environment. However, it seems a few key details are often overlooked. There are important considerations to understand before making the decision to not mow your lawn for a month, especially in the month of May.

While most people may think of honeybees when thinking of pollinators, pollinators come in many forms such as flies, bumblebees, solitary bees, butterflies, moths, and even hummingbirds. All of these different insect and bird species require a diverse selection of plants for food and survival. The Monarch Butterfly, for example, uses several species of milkweeds for their caterpillars to feed on while the adults rely on a plethora of nectar-producing flowering plant species to supply their energy for their annual migration. A diversity of plant materials is needed to support all of these types of insects and it is important that we look at how we have been maintaining our lawns over the years.

Monarch on Joe Pye Weed

***Lawn spaces surrounded by native garden habitat (Design by Stimson Landscape Architects)***

If the turf areas that have been treated year after year for weeds are suddenly left to grow, the flowering plants that the early pollinators need may not be available. Plants like dandelions, clover, violet, and ground ivy are typically found in lawns and are the very plants being prevented from growing using a traditional lawn care program. Therefore, it may take several seasons of not treating the lawns for these plants to get established and become available in the month of May.

Additionally, May is a big month for turf grass growth. Turf grass is, by design, able to withstand repeated mowing at a low 2- 4” height and maintain a lush consistent carpet of green. If the grass is left to grow for 4-5 weeks, it could reach 10-12” in height. Then, when suddenly cut back, it would look like a hayfield after harvest. That first mowing would also be a much more labor-intensive process and the cost for that cut could be substantial, certainly not the cost of a regular weekly mow. After that initial mowing, the lawn might need extra care to bring it to the condition of a lush green carpet.

The best way then is to look at this initiative as an opportunity to develop your landscape so that it can be a year-round food source and habitat for insects and birds. The first step to take will be to assess your existing lawn space and decide how much you really want or need. Going forward, maintain that lawn space at your highest threshold level for weeds and follow an organic management program for cultivating a healthy lawn.

Bee on Lavender

Next, take inventory of the existing plant material in your garden spaces. You may only need to enhance those gardens with the addition of a few select plant species to increase the variety of flowering plants. Or, this can be an opportunity to revamp particular areas of your landscape and create native habitats providing the necessary diversity for a wide variety of species throughout the seasons.

Perennial and annual border along front walkway

You can have the best of both worlds; lawn space for play and relaxation and attractive gardens that support pollinators. These habitats can be mixed borders, tree and shrub beds or meadow areas containing plants where all sorts of native pollinators can live and thrive. Keep in mind that native plant habitats do not need to be wild, unruly jungles. These landscapes can still be maintained to look well-kept and provide the necessary sustenance for a healthy population of at-risk pollinators.

To learn more about the research and efforts of increasing pollinator populations, visit The Beecology Project. This program was created by Dr. Robert Gegear, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Biology, at UMass Dartmouth. Another resource for native plant gardening is the Native Plant Trust which is the nation’s first plant conservation organization and is based in Massachusetts. Their home is the botanical garden called Garden in the Woods and is truly a treasure to visit.

February’s to-do list

Winter has finally arrived in the valley; and the newly fallen snow is creating a very picturesque view from my office window. Creating four season views in the garden is an ideal garden designers work towards. We are fortunate to be living in New England, where Mother Nature, and her palette of seasonal colors, create the perfect backdrop for our gardens. Our snowy winters provide an opportunity to highlight the interesting branch patterns and silhouettes of trees and shrubs. If you’d like to see some color, consider adding trees with persistent fruit, like Crabapple or Hawthorne, which also provide food for our birds.

Indoor plants need a little TLCthis time of year! Dust your houseplants with a moist cloth to keep their leaf pores open and free to breathe, they will thank you! Scout for insect pests; plants leaking sticky sap is a tell-tale sign of sucking insects. Aphids, mealy bugs, and scale insects are the most common pests, easily removed with a strong stream of water, and a Q-tip at the kitchen sink. Have you noticed we’re getting longer days? By the end of this month, we will be receiving about 11 hours of daylight. Begin to fertilize your plants weekly, with a half strength dilution of your preferred water-soluble fertilizer.

As we move into the harshest part of winter, minimize winter burn damage by using an anti-desiccant spray. Winter burn of susceptible evergreens is most likely to occur during February, more than any other month. The three-part stress of strong winds, frozen soil, and bright late winter sun, sets up conditions that can lead to leaf burn or browning. Choose the best time to spray when the temperatures will stay above freezing for 24 hours and follow the label instructions for your product.

A good way to beat those winter blues is to get some greenery into your life. Two great gardening events coming up:
Amherst Orchid Society’s annual OrchidShow and sale, Feb. 25^th-26th 2023, at Smith Vocational High School, 80 Locust St Northampton, MA. If you’ve never attended, well worth the trip. You can get ‘up close and personal’ to the many species of orchids displayed, with demonstrations and notable speakers, makes for an interesting day out. Have your deepest questions about orchid rearing answered!
Smith College Spring Bulb Show, Mar. 4th-19th 2023, Lyman Plant House, 16 College Lane, Northampton, MA. Just an incredibly scented breath of fresh spring air, we attend every year.

Late winter snowstorms often bring heavy wet snow and ice. Remember to shake off evergreen branches weighed down by ice and snow. If you should happen to get some broken branches, be sure to prune off the stump cleanly. A ragged tear will inhibit proper healing and invite infection. Continue pruning ornamental and fruiting trees while they are still dormant. Always remove broken or rotten looking wood. Fruit trees require seasonal pruning to stay healthy and bear fruit. The more overgrown they become the less quality fruit will develop. Don’t miss the opportunity for dormant pruning this winter. Please contact the office now to get on the schedule. info@countrysidelandscape.net

Need a hand with winter chores? Please contact our office to schedule winter services:
(413) 458-5586, info@countrysidelandscape.net

5 Indoor Gardening Ideas to keep busy this winter!

Grow Micro-greens
If you have a hankering to grow something now, try micro-greens! Kale, alfalfa, and sunflower sprouts anyone? Growing microgreens indoors is a fantastic winter garden project or something you can do year-round! They’re easy to grow and can be done under a small grow light or in a bright sunny window. The fresh little microgreens are absolutely loaded with nutrients in exponentially higher concentrations than their mature forms. I’m sure your winter body and palate will greatly appreciate that pop of green goodness! Organic micro-green seeds available from High Mowing Gardens here.

Start a worm composting bin
Worm composting is a great way to sustainably repurpose food waste! Not to mention, worm castings (aka worm poop) are the most incredible fertilizer and soil amendment you can use. Worm castings have the nickname ‘black gold’ for a reason. With a worm bin, you can create that for free! And your garden will thank you endlessly. Worm bins are easy to set up, perfect for small spaces, and can even be kept indoors. Contrary to popular belief, worm compost bins do not smell bad (especially if they’re well-maintained). Learn how to create and maintain a simple, inexpensive tote-style worm bin here. Worms do need to be protected from freezing conditions, so if you can’t keep it inside during the winter, wrap the worm bin in insulating material like a wool or fleece blanket and store it in a protected location such as a garage, shed, or basement. This indoor winter gardening project is something that the whole family can do!

Grow mushrooms in your kitchen
Ordinarily you wouldn’t want fungi growing in your kitchen, but here is a novel winter gardening idea: grow some (culinary) shrooms! Like microgreens, you can also start to grow any time of year. Mushrooms are fun and easy to grow indoors, especially since there are many mushroom growing kits readily available that make it very easy. The kits come pre-inoculated with mushroom spores (varieties of oyster mushrooms being the most common), and all you need to do is keep them misted and moist. Then you can harvest fresh, tasty, nutrient-dense homegrown mushrooms right in your kitchen!

Build a birdhouse or owl box
Calling all bird lovers! Building a birdhouse is a sweet little winter garden project and one your local wildlife will greatly appreciate too. Check out selection of DIY birdhouses and plans.
Or, if you want to step it up a notch, consider building an owl box! In return for providing them with shelter, these majestic birds of prey can offer excellent natural rodent control for your garden. You can find owl box plans online from trusted bird experts like this Screech owl box plan from the Cornell Wildlife Center, or this Barn owl box from the Audubon Society. Be sure to research what types of owls are most common to your area, since different owl species like particular box shapes and sizes.

Decorate your pots
Feeling crafty? Decorating pots is a fun winter garden project that you, and your family can do indoors. Grab some plain terra cotta pots and get creative! You could paint them with pretty designs, or even adorn them with a mosaic tile pattern. Have a look at this tutorial on How to Make Mosaic Flower Pots Hunting down mosaic materials (e.g. old plates or china) sounds like a good reason to visit your local thrift store.

Growing houseplants soothes the winter-weary soul

I have been an avid houseplant collector since I was a young adult. Back then, it was popular to sprout avocadoes from the large pit. We would suspend the pit from toothpicks into a glass of water, and in a few months, we would have the beginnings of an avocado ‘tree’. Two types of houseplants were standard fare back then, Philodendrons, and Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum). These were ubiquitous as decorative hanging plants; my Mom also grew African violets (Saintpaulia), but this was considered a huge achievement, and she had a ‘green thumb’.

Flash forward to 2023, and welcome to the world-wide-web of the plant world. There is virtually no limit to what type of plants you may purchase online; the limit is what you may successfully grow in your home environment. Yet, in researching this article, there are workarounds to plant un-unfriendly homes also. You can purchase wall garden kits that will create a completely self-contained, self-watering garden to function as a living ‘painting’ in your home. In one of the kits, I looked at, the plants were held in removable ‘cassettes’; allowing you to swap out different planting themes for holiday decorating etc.

An interesting ‘houseplant’ that isn’t a plant at all, is the Marimo moss ball. It is a form of sea algae that naturally forms a ball shape. You can grow it in a fish tank, or a decorative container, out of direct light. It is a passive organism; it doesn’t grow very much or move; has very few cultural needs but may be the perfect living green thing for somebody. You only need change the water periodically, and the moss ball would benefit from the addition of aquarium salt.

Did you know that some houseplants are very efficient at purifying the air? Sanseveria or the ‘Snake Plant’ can help remove formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene and trichloroethylene gases from our indoor environments, and be decorative accents too. Most houseplants are considered tropical perennials, in their home ecosystems, and have varying light requirements. In general, though, most houseplants have low-medium light requirements, as befitting a plant suitable for growing indoors. Many will enjoy summering outdoors, but it is important to adhere to the light needs of the plant and not give them too much light, too quickly or they will get scorched leaves.

Snake plant

Tillandsias or ‘Air Plants’ are plants that can grow without soil. They are members of the Bromeliad family and use their roots to attach to trees or rocks in their natural environment. Tillandsias absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves and are classified as epiphytes. They obtain their water and nutrients from rain, and the debris that accumulates around them. Tillandsias prefer bright filtered light and can be harmed by direct full sun. It is important to completely wet the plant 2-4 times per week, depending upon the temperature and humidity of your home. Light misting can help with humidity, but it is not suitable for the main source of moisture. You should choose a fertilizer made for absorption through the leaves, such as Epiphyte’s Delight.

Zebra Haworthia

Miniature succulents, and succulents of all kinds have become very popular for indoor plants. The Haworthia attenuate, or Zebra Haworthia is a noteworthy member of the Aloe family, very easy to grow indoors. My grandmother had one in the same container on her shady windowsill, literally my whole childhood. Zebra Haworthia originates from South Africa, and normally will experience seasonal changes in light, water and temperature. Haworthia prefer cool (50’F), drier conditions in winter, and bright, indirect light and warmer temperatures in summer. During the summer water generously, letting the soil media dry out between watering. In winter, reduce watering to once every other month, making sure water does not accumulate in the rosette of leaves. Fertilize, using a formulation for cacti, in the summer months only.

Calathea crocata

For those of us with pets, having non-toxic plants is vital for their well-being. Two pet-friendly types of house plants, that are also easy to care for are Hoya kerrii, the Valentine plant, and Calathea crocata, the Eternal Flame plant. Calathea have attractive, slightly wrinkled, metallic green and purple leaves that tend to fold up in the evening. It gets its common name from the long-lasting yellow-orange flowers held up above the leaves. It likes bright light, no direct sun, and consistently moist soil through the summer- months. Calathea likes ‘soft’ water, and some sources suggest using distilled water for this plant. Grow Calathea on a tray of pebbles, to provide the high humidity it likes, or mist daily with tepid water. The Valentine plant, you may have guessed, has distinctive heart-shaped leaves, that are thick and waxy in texture. Sometimes called the ‘Sweetheart Wax Plant’ it is very easy to grow in the home, preferring bright filtered light, but no direct sun. The fleshy leaves can store water, so only requires 1-2 applications of water per month. Be sure to allow the pot to drain thoroughly, never sitting in water. Hoya kerrii blooms in the summer with clusters of unusual white flowers with burgundy centers, a mature plant may have upwards of 25 flowers. To facilitate flowering, allow the plant to become a little pot-bound, and fertilize with half strength fish emulsion-type fertilizer once per month during the summer.

Hoya kerrii with flowers

Thinking ahead…

Every year new plant varieties are introduced at the start of the growing season, to get us excited for the new gardening year. Here are a few introductions to get you eager to grow this season!

Heuchera Dolce ‘Wildberry’-Coral Bells, Dolce ‘Wildberry’ has large, scalloped, incredibly glossy leaves that are a bold shade of purple. Charcoal veins accent the leaves and dark stems hold rosy-pink calyxes and white flowers in Summer. This perennial is deer resistant and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Grows 10-14 inches tall and 16-20 inches wide at maturity, ‘Wildberry’ Coral Bells will thrive in sun or shade.

Dolce ‘Wildberry’-Coral Bells

Hydrangea serrata ‘Let’s Dance Can Do’ re-blooming Hydrangea, ‘Let’s Dance Can Do’ hydrangea has luscious strawberry pink flowers in neutral/alkaline soils and a lovely lavender in acidic soil. It has the unique ability to create flower buds along the entire length of the stem instead of only at the stem tips. It also reblooms quicker than others all summer. Hydrangea serrata are versatile garden plants for anywhere you need some summer color and are much hardier to our cold winters than other ‘colored’ hydrangea species. Grows 3-4 feet tall and 3 feet wide at maturity. Plant in part sun to full sun.

Hydrangea serrata ‘Let’s Dance Can Do’

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Purple Pillar’ Rose of Sharon, ‘Purple Pillar’ has semi-double purple flowers that bloom continuously all summer through fall. It is drought and heat tolerant, deer-resistant, and attracts pollinators. The unusual columnar habit makes it a real space saver, if you thought you didn’t have enough space to grow rose of Sharon, ‘Purple Pillar’ may be just right for you. Try it in containers, or flanking your front door, or as an accent in your landscape. Grows 10-15 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide at maturity. Rose of Sharon do their best when planted in full sun but will tolerate partial shade.

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Purple Pillar’

Rosa ‘Ringo All-Star’ Rose The pleasing flowers of ‘Ringo All-Star’ rose may look simple at first, but this plant packs in a lot of interest! ‘Ringo All Star’ flowers start out a rich melon-orange with a cherry-red center and transform to lavender and pink, creating a look of multiple colors on one plant. A crown of fluffy yellow anthers adorn the center and attracts pollinators. ‘Ringo All-Star’ is disease-resistant and low maintenance. No need to trim or deadhead to keep those fabulous flowers coming all season. Grows 2-3 feet tall and wide at maturity.

‘Ringo All-Star’ Rose

January 2023 Newsletter

January 1, 2023 by sharonmahoney

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 129
January 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Strategize now to protect your garden from the Spongy Moth

2023 looks to be another bad year forthe spongy moth, formerly called the gypsy moth. The caterpillar is very destructive to many species of trees and shrubs that are native to our area, and non-native species too. Scientists will count the amount of egg masses observed in blocks of forested land, then calculate how many caterpillars may be predicted to hatch out the following spring. Unfortunately, heavy infestations usually occur 2-3 years in a row, until their numbers diminish enough to not cause great damage.

Spongy moths were accidentally released into MA in 1869 and has spread into 20 other Eastern and Mid-Western states and 5 provinces of Canada. They favor Oak trees but have been recorded to feed on 100 other types of trees and shrubs. They can decimate mighty Oaks by their sheer numbers; each egg mass can contain upwards of 800 eggs. The newly hatched caterpillars can travel great distances by becoming airborne on a silken thread, their furry bodies parachuting up to a half mile from where they hatched.

Newly hatched caterpillars are less than ¼” long, but they will continue to develop, going through 5-6 growth stages before becoming adults. It is during the egg and caterpillar stages we can best achieve some measure of control. Females will lay tan colored egg masses along crevices of tree bark. These egg masses can be removed into containers of soapy water to kill the eggs, just scraping them off without drowning them may leave eggs on the ground to hatch. Utilizing dormant oil spraying is another way to preemptively kill eggs before they hatch. This ultra-fine grade of horticultural oil will not harm beneficial insects, birds, or mammals, and is sprayed during the winter and early spring when plants and insects are dormant. Another type of spray, Btk (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) is very effective at killing the caterpillar stage of the spongey moth. It works by disabling their gut, and will not harm birds or mammals, but is best used on the younger stages of the caterpillar for the best effect. Caterpillars will die in about a week after eating leaves sprayed with Btk.

Spongy moth caterpillars and egg masses

Caterpillars in the last two growth stages will rest under leaf litter and crevices of trees during the day, then crawl back up to the canopy to feed at night. The old method of placing a sticky barrier around the tree trunk to trap them as they crawled back up, had the disadvantage of trapping beneficial insects and birds also. Try tying a section of burlap around the tree trunk with garden twine, allowing the burlap above the string to flop over it, forming a burlap flap. Sleepy caterpillars will hide underneath the flap, and you can brush these into cans of soapy water in the afternoon before they make their way up to feed at night. This isn’t the best solution for a heavily forested plot, but maybe a good trick to have if you have a few favored trees to protect.

Environmental factors like moisture and temperature can play a helpful role in keeping populations of spongy moths low. Entomophaga maimaiga, a soil borne fungus, was introduced from Japan to combat the spongy moth about 30 years ago. It has the best chance of developing and attacking the caterpillar when our spring is cold and wet. During dry springs, as they were recently, the caterpillars have had the advantage because the fungus doesn’t survive in dry weather. White footed mice can also help by eating the pupae, (resting stage of the caterpillar) and in years following an abundant acorn crop, mouse populations will naturally increase enough to reduce the number of spongey moth juveniles that can develop into adult moths.

Need help with managing spongy moth on your property? Contact Scott Higley for more information: scott@countrysidelandscape.net

January’s to-do list
As I write, the New Year 2023 beckons; 2022 seemed to pass so quickly. Our weather in the Pioneer Valley is a mirror of last season at this same time…little to no snow on the ground and only moderately cold. Dave Hayes, Massachusetts’ unofficial weatherman, has dubbed this section of western MA as the “Triangle of Disappointment for Snow lovers”https://www.masslive.com/weather/2022/12/weather-nut-calls-this-section-of-mass-the-triangle-of-disappointment-for-snow-lovers.html We are in this geographical niche for minimal snow accumulations compared to our neighbors east and west of us. Just a few miles west, Florida, MA, had the record snowfall for the state last week receiving 18”. Deerfield only received 4.5”, at least our lack of snow gives me a little more time to put down vole repellent, and hope that the lack of cover and cold weather will ‘naturally’ lessen the population. I’m impatient for longer days and a return to outdoor gardening; I received my first seed and gardening supply catalog in the mail yesterday, a sign of good things to come!

Animal repellent sprays can be applied as needed throughout the season, but it is more efficient to apply while temperatures are above freezing. You can achieve good results, and limit animal browsing, by being consistent with applications. If you have persisted with repellent strategies without favorable results, it may be time to rethink your planting design to limit or exclude plants that attract browsing animals.

We may receive a ‘January Thaw’ but be careful not to walk on your garden beds when they are wet and muddy during a thaw, because it can permanently compress the soil structure. Do check for any plants that may have ‘heaved’ out of their planting holes during freeze/thaw cycles. Gently push them back into place.

January, and throughout the winter, is the optimum time to perform corrective pruning and shaping of your trees and shrubs. You have a clear view of the whole tree and needn’t worry about oozing sap, particularly if you are pruning ornamental Maples. Fruit trees need annual pruning to keep them healthy. Fruiting trees have a very vigorous growth habit and will get ‘twiggy’ quickly. Pruning helps channel that energy into fruit production, by eliminating the extraneous twiggy growth, and poorly shaped branches. Ignoring a too dense canopy, and letting water sprouts develop, all can contribute to a tree’s decline. Always remove any dead or diseased wood; during winter storms these weak spots can tear off, and cause greater damage, than if they were preemptively pruned.

As I write, I’m watching different flocks of birds settle and eat from the Staghorn Sumacs outside my windows. They are eating seeds from the red cones that persist after the leaves drop. I allow my property line to be kind of wild and undisturbed, and I’m glad to be able to provide wild food sources for the birds. Additionally, I also hang several feeders of Black-oil sunflower seed, and suet cakes. Supporting your neighborhood birds is not only enjoyable, but these birds may become permanent residents of the area and help keep insect populations down in the spring and summer. If you have the space, planting fruit and nut bearing plants like native Winterberry, Sumac, Oak and Birch, will create a haven for wild birds.

Enjoy the break from the labor of love that encompasses caring for the outdoor garden. Take a gardening class with the Berkshire Botanic Gardenhttps://www.berkshirebotanical.org/events or Visit a local greenhouse and feel a breath of warm air and plant life at The Lyman Plant House at Smith College https://garden.smith.edu/visit or the Durfee Conservatory at University of Massachusetts at Amherst https://durfeeconservatory.umass.edu/
Sometimes seeing some green growing plants is a big pick-me-up from the winter doldrums! (Check before going for any schedule changes)

Need a hand with winter chores? Contact our office: info@countrysidelandscape.net(413) 458-5586

Gardening Goals for the New Year!
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, setting yearly goals for yourself will serve to create a plan and framework for the gardening year ahead.

Get organized-Familiarize yourself with your hardiness zone, if you don’t know it already. This will be a big help in choosing the right varieties for your yard. Get a garden planner or journal, to help you keep track of significant events throughout the gardening year and track your progress in reaching your goals. Make a check list of what you have on hand vs what you need to get.

Turn your garden into an oasis-Make a goal to enjoy spending time in the garden. Add comfortable garden seating to allow yourself the luxury of taking in your hard work. By creating an enjoyable space, all the gardening work will seem like less work, and taking breaks in this lovely space will be your reward for a job well done!

Fill the space with unique greenery-Look for plants with ombre’ shades, different textured foliage, and leaves that can catch the breeze. Large houseplants can be summered outdoors to bring a lush tropical feel to the garden. Trending for 2023 is variegated foliage; especially plants that are green with pink variegation.

Green and Pink Caladium

Grow something new and unusual-Skip the petunias and marigolds this year and try something you’ve never grown before. Maybe you’ve admired some exotic tropical plant in your travels, or wished to have a fragrant rose garden, but only have a small balcony. These plants will happily grow in a pot for the summer, and you have the option of bringing them indoors in fall or donating them to someone who can care for them.

Grow something trendy-The Pantone color of the year for 2023 is ‘Viva Magenta’. This bold hue is a powerful crimson red that is a balance between warm and cool. According to the designers at Pantone, it was inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious natural dyes in the world. For a bright pop of color in your garden try growing crimson Zinnias, Sweet Williams or crimson Morning Glories; all easy-to-grow and have long lasting blooms.

Pantone ‘Color of the Year’ Viva Magenta

Entice more pollinators to your garden-Take some time to observe which plants attract the most attention from bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. In my garden I have noticed hummingbirds just love upright growing Catmint, and tall Zinnias. Lantanas are also swarmed by hummingbirds and butterflies. Discover what the pollinators like, and plan to add more of it.

Plan to do garden health checkups on a regular schedule-Identifying a pest or disease problem early on can help catch it before it spreads and gets far worse. Check the undersides of leaves for signs of insects: eggs, webbing or leaf discoloration. Sometimes you can notice something just slightly off from the normal look of the plant, it’s helpful to take a photo of your plant when it is healthy to refer to, over the course of the summer.

Thinking ahead…

A good way to start encouraging pollinators is by planting food sources for their young. The only food source for Monarch caterpillars are plants in the milkweed family. There are several species of milkweed that are perennial in our growing zone. Tropical milkweed is very ornamental and can be grown as an annual in our area. Monarchs are not picky about whether it is native, annual or perennial, if it is a milkweed, they will thrive on it. Adult butterflies can be attracted by growing fruit trees, or offering cut slices of overripe banana, oranges or melon. They prefer to suck up a sweet liquid diet.

Asclepias syriaca-Common Milkweed thrives in sunny meadows and fields. This species of milkweed needs a lot of space and will spread by underground stems. It is best used in a wildflower garden, or other informal area. 3-6’ tall.

Common Milkweed

Asclepias incarnata-Swamp Milkweed doesn’t require wet conditions, contrary to its name. It is neater in its growth habit, with pretty, bright pink flowers, and graceful willowy leaves. 3-4’ tall.

Swamp Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa-Butterfly weed is a hardy perennial that likes sharply drained, sandy soil and full sun. It has very showy red and orange or yellow flowers that will bloom all summer. Grows 12”-3’ tall.

Asclepias tuberosa with Monarch caterpillars

Asclepias curassavica-Mexican Butterfly weed is originally from the tropics so is only grown as an annual in our area. The Monarchs will happily lay their eggs on this species. A good hedge plant; grows densely to 4’.

Mexican Butterfly weed

Oxypetalum coeruleum-Blue Star Milkweed, or Tweedia, is a vine-like member of the milkweed family. With unusual blue flowers. Originating from Brazil, it is hardy to 25 degrees. Grows to 10’.

Oxypetalum coeruleum

December 2022 Newsletter

December 1, 2022 by sharonmahoney

Issue 128
December 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

What is rainwater collection?

Rainwater collection is an alternative water supply approach that captures, diverts and stores rainwater for later use. It can help alleviate the demands of existing freshwater supplies, such as a well. There are a variety of methods available for rainwater harvesting, but they are essentially comprised of a catchment surface, a conveyance system, and storage and distribution.

Your system can work well, even if it is as basic as a collection barrel. In fact, starting with a simple storage barrel may be a good way to get your ‘toes wet’ so to speak. You will need rain gutters and a downspout, to move the rainwater from the roof top collection area into your barrel, but not much else besides the actual barrel. Many garden centers, and online garden stores have ready-made rainwater collection barrels for sale. They usually come with a screened lid, to keep debris out of your rainwater, and a spigot to attach a hose.

Collecting rainwater is beneficial for two main reasons; it can save you money on water bills, and conserve our most precious resource, water. Every drop of drinking water we can save, by utilizing free rainwater, is helpful to everyone living in our communities. Rainwater is also healthier for our plants, as it is free from the salts, minerals and chlorine used to treat tap water for public use.

Harvesting rainwater can also help reduce the demand for groundwater, and the high costs, and environmental impacts of having to drill for water. Collecting rainwater can also help prevent erosion from extreme rain events causing heavy run-off onto lawns and beds. Please remember that rainwater is not pure, and not suitable for drinking, cooking or bathing. Rain can wash contaminants into your catchment area, such as bird poop, from the roof. Without being properly treated, rainwater is primarily used for irrigation, watering your garden and potted plants. Some localities may have their own regulations concerning rainwater collection, please check with your municipality.

You can estimate how much water you may be able to harvest using this equation: Catchment area (roof size in square feet) x Monthly rainfall (inches) x Conversion factor (0.62) x Collection factor (75%-90% to account for losses in the system) For example, according to NOAA’s Climate Report, the average monthly rainfall for the contiguous United States was just under 3 inches in 2019. Using this number and a 75% collection factor, the total water catchment for a 1,000-square-foot roof would be: 1,000 x 3 x 0.62 x 75% = 1,395 gallons per month, or 16,740 gallons per year (minimum) This is a substantial amount and can certainly go a long way in conserving drinking water. Consider the possibilities!

December’s to-do list

The week after Thanksgiving and we have been spared from snow and cold weather, so far. This has been one of the nicest autumns in recent memory, and I am grateful to be living in western MA, where beauty and serenity abound. Just the other day I saw a Bald Eagle soaring as I exited 91N in Greenfield. Not many places where you can see them flying overhead so randomly. As we close on 2022, I wanted tosay “THANK-YOU” to all our Countryside Corner readers, andfrom everyone at Countryside Landscape & Design, we wish you Happy Holidays, and a peaceful and healthy New Year.

With the winter solstice, and colder weather on the way; I willbe preparing to protect certain plants from gnawing animals, and the effects of severe weather. I have had problems with voles and field mice, aka white-footed mice, eating the roots and stems of shrubs and perennials, while under cover of snow and dead leaves. Plants store sugar and starch in their roots during winter, and rodents are attracted to this food source. I use a castor oil-based repellent applied around the base of the plant to ward off under ground attack. I will wrap the trunk of my special flowering cherry tree, with flexible tree wrap, to about 18 inches above the ground. Cherries, and other fruit trees, even ornamental types, have thin bark, making them particularly susceptible to gnawing.

If your garden has been the scene of repeated browsing by deer and rabbits, you may be helped by applying an animal repellent. It is best to apply repellent products while temperatures are above freezing. An alternative for larger gardens is deer fencing. This is particularly effective for protecting living screen hedges, and orchards. Contact Scott Higley for more information: scott@countrysidelandscape.net

White-footed mice are the primary vectors for Lyme infected ticks. These mice incubate generations of new ticks in their mouse nests. By breaking a link in the life cycle, you can help to reduce the population of ticks. Continue to set traps to reduce mouse numbers. Do a thorough cleanup of all the places mice may hide over the winter. Utilize Damminix tick tubes, which kill larval ticks in the mouse nest, and Tick Free repellent for thorough coverage against tick infestations. Ticks will continue to be active until we have snow cover and sustained cold. Contact Scott Higley for more information: scott@countrysidelandscape.net

Left over flower and veggies seeds can remain viable for several years if they are stored well. Seal them in Zip-loc bags and keep them in a cool dry place. A snap-lid container in the fridge would work well.

If you haven’t already inserted stakes along the edges of your driveway to mark the areas to be plowed, don’t forget to do this before the ground freezes. This helps the person clearing your snow do their best job, minimizing damage to your lawn, and garden beds.

Paper white Narcissus is a very easy and reliable indoor bulb that can bring a little flowering cheer to your home. They don’t need to be planted; I just set mine into a 12” tall vase on a base of pebbles, and water them lightly until the roots start to grow, thereafter; only once a week. They will bloom in 21 days. The 12” tall vase keeps the leaves from flopping. If you start them now, they can be in bloom by Christmas.

Resist the urge to cut down these plants to their bases: Russian Sage, Butterfly bush, and Caryopteris. They are considered woody perennials and leaving them whole helps them to over winter in areas where they are only marginally hardy. Let your ornamental grass stay whole also, they tend to be late coming up in spring, and the old stems help protect them.

If you keep a garden journal, now is the time to read and reflect on what has been successful, or not. If you’ve never kept a journal, it can be an invaluable tool for year-to-year garden planning. It’s also never too early to start planning for next year’s garden! Did your veggie garden produce as well as you’d hoped? Set a reminder for yourself to have your garden soil tested, and plan on making corrections before you start growing next spring. If you haven’t applied garden lime to your soil in the past few years, there is still time this month. Late fall is the best time for lime application, as the snow/rain and freeze/thaw cycle will help move the mineral into your soil profile through the course of winter.

Need help getting ready for winter? Give our office a call today. (413) 458-5586
info@countrysidelandscape.net

New Garden Ideas for 2023!

I like to keep my gardening spirit active through the downtime during winter. I’m already envisioning new ideas for our 2023 gardening year. Since we are still in a water deficit in the Pioneer Valley, I’m taking that into consideration as I plan for next season. I’m also looking to garden smarter, and not harder; here a few ideas to get you thinking about gardening in the new year.

Greek Themed Gardens-I have been seeing this design idea all over the web. It harkens back to an image of romance and classicism: stone walls, Greek statuary and architectural elements. Think archways with climbing plants twining over it. Plant-shaded seating areas, adjacent to Grecian planters with ivy spilling over.

Color of the year-Terra cotta-Terra cotta means “baked earth,” and is a reddish-brown unglazed clay that is used to create pots and planters. Both the terra-cotta material and color are expected to play a big role in backyard design come the new year, adding a bit of a Moroccan or Mediterranean flare. The warm and vibrant tone will help balance out all the grays and neutrals that have dominated outdoor furniture and interior home décor.

Accessible Gardens-Super agers and Boomers living a productive and active lifestyle especially want to keep gardening as they age. Weeding has become my bane due to arthritis in my hands. Did you know there are now solar powered robotic weeders? It operates like an outdoor Roomba, and it gently tills the soil too. The Tertill weeder will be on my Xmas wish list!

Swapping lawns for meadow gardens-The trend for drought tolerant gardens and pollinator gardens is melding together. Many homeowners are removing their lawns and replanting it with drought tolerant meadow gardens. These gardens consist of primarily regional native plants that are naturalized together to give the appearance of a wild meadow. Though many of these plants consist of flowers, native grasses play a primary role. Meadows provide habitat to support wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insect pollinators. They don’t require fertilization or regular mowing, and no harmful chemical treatments.

Embrace vertical gardening-Make more of the space you have by maximizing its vertical potential. Vertical planting can also achieve privacy screening in small spaces by using rolling shelves, pergolas, trellises, hanging baskets, planter boxes, fence shelving, mounted containers, and pouches. Think of the unused ‘airspace’ above your beds as valuable space to grow more. You can even create a living wall indoors or outside to train plants on.

Grow your own bouquets-has become a hobby/job for some gardeners the last few years. Flower growers get a lot of satisfaction from growing a product that sparks joy for their customers. If you have an empty bed, or patch of ground, you can grow your own bouquet flowers too. Flowers with strong stems, and long bloom times work best: Dahlias, Cosmos, Zinnias, tall Ageratum, Celosia, Salvia, are readily available, and easy to grow suggestions for a cutting garden.

Thinking ahead…

New flower and vegetable varieties are produced every year; growers test them in growing trials, such as those for the AAS. These new introductions were selected by AAS (All-American Selections) for attributes of habit, vigor, disease resistance, and flower presentation. Their growth habits, and productivity make them stand outs in the trial gardens; they will be winners in your garden too!

Hybrid Tomato ‘Zensei’- is an early-maturing, high-yielding Roma tomato for home gardeners. Zenzei produces a great yield of fleshy plum tomatoes that are perfect for canning and freezing. Neat and tidy plants produce fruits that are uniformly shaped and are easy to harvest on unique bushy yet indeterminate plants. Each fruit has fewer issues like spots and blossom end rot. Plant in full sun and provide stakes or a cage when the plant reaches the appropriate size but there is no need to prune!

Tomato ‘Zensei’

Salvia ‘Blue By You’- This perennial features rich blue flowers that bloom up to two weeks earlier than the comparisons. ‘Blue By You’ has excellent winter hardiness and heat tolerance, ‘Blue by You’ salvia is an excellent candidate for your pollinator, cutting, and container gardens. Bright blue blossoms from late spring into fall, it will repeat bloom throughout the season when spent blooms are removed. Adored all season long by hummingbirds and butterflies. Salvia is resistant to browsing by deer or rabbits.

Salvia ‘Blue By You’

Squash kabocha ‘Sweet Jade’-This cute, single-serving-sized squash is the perfect addition to your garden for a fall harvest. Each fruit is between 1-2 pounds and can be used for single servings of squash, as an edible soup bowl, or in any number of Asian-style dishes where a sweet, earthy nutritious squash is typically used. Sweet Jade’s deep orange flesh is dry yet sweet and very flavorful whether roasted, baked, or pureed.

Squash ‘Sweet Jade’

Leucanthemum ‘Carpet Angel’-The first-ever groundcover Shasta Daisy! Growing only to a height of 6 inches, this unique Leucanthemum can act as a groundcover spreading up to 20 inches wide. Large 3-inch flowers boast a second inner frilly bloom adding to the unique look of Carpet Angel. The unique branching on this new AAS winner means more flower stems sporting beautiful pure white blooms that look like angels dancing over a carpet of dark green foliage. Deadheading will encourage repeat blooming.

Shasta Daisy ‘Carpet Angel’

Zinnia ‘Profusion’ Red Yellow Bicolor- Introducing a beautiful new bicolor addition to the popular Profusion series of zinnias. This gorgeous zinnia starts the season with a bold vibrant red center ring surrounded by golden-yellow outer petals. As the season progresses, the aging flowers morph into soft, beautiful shades of apricot, salmon, and dusty rose. This new compact Zinnia continued to bloom new flowers over the old, all summer, so there was never a decline in the floral display.

Zinnia ‘Profusion’ Red Yellow Bicolor

November 2022 Newsletter

November 1, 2022 by sharonmahoney

October 2022 Newsletter

September 30, 2022 by sharonmahoney

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 126
October 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Drought tolerant lawns and xeriscaping: the next big idea!

Drought, water shortages, increasingly extreme weather and changing climate may point the way towards the demise of the lush green lawn. Other options, filling in for the traditional lawn, can make a beautiful statement and reduce your water and workload too.

Xeriscaping; a form of landscaping that requires little water and minimal care. Non-turf lawns needing less pesticides and fertilizer; generating less waste is gaining momentum across the country. A few FAQS about xeriscaping and creating an environmentally friendly yard:

About 9 billion gallons of water per day is used on landscaping in the USA-according to the EPA. This is about one-third of our total daily water use.

Grass doesn’t need to be watered daily. General USDA recommendations say most traditional lawns only require weekly irrigation.

There are 112 million people living in drought conditions across the USA. As of September 15^th,2022, 66% of the country is in some level of drought; about 12% is in extreme drought.

Low-water doesn’t necessarily mean you have to replace your lawn with rocks or cactus. Many wonderful groundcovers are low, green and lush. Some can even be walked on, like a traditional lawn, but don’t require regular mowing or watering.

Utilizing native plants is a great choice, but certainly not your only option. The key to success is diversity in the planting plan, and using plants that will thrive in your particular situation. You’ve heard this before: “The right plant in the right place.”

Knowing your soil type is your first step towards a successful planting. The four basic types are: sand, silt, clay and loam. Each has different holding capacities for water and nutrients; a simple soil assessment can advise you on what type of soil you have and the best plants for your type.

A few cold hardy suggestions for possible lawn alternatives are:

Ajuga reptans (Carpet Bugle) grows 8-12” tall x 12-18” wide prefers full sun to partial shade.

Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-Summer) grows 4-6” tall x 15-18” wide. Prefers full sun, very tough; tolerant of foot traffic.

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (hardy Plumbago) produces stunning deep blue flowers in late summer, then brilliant red fall foliage. Can grow in full sun or full shade; 9-12” tall x 12-20” wide.

Tanacetum densum v. amani (Partridge Feather) feathery silver foliage makes this a stand out in any garden. Grows well in full hot sun or partial shade. Rabbit resistant once established- 3-8” tall x 12-24” wide.

October’s to-do list

As I begin to write, today is the 1^st day of fall and it is a strange, yet enjoyable, sensation to be enjoying a cool rainy day after the dusty, dry summer. I’m hoping the recent spell of soaking rain will push us out of the current drought. On a recent drive it was nice to see the beginnings of fall colors throughout the valley and hill towns. This cooler weather has jumpstarted my urge to get out and play in the garden. I plan to plant garlic for next year’s crop and divide and transplant some established peonies, and other perennials this month. I’m hoping freezing temperatures are a few weeks away; it’s always sad to see the end of another growing season. We’ve had a good tomato year, canning 30 quarts of ‘Blue Beech’ plum tomatoes; in addition to the bounty of sun-dried cherry tomatoes, snow peas, sweet peppers and herbs we’ve frozen. I think I am ready to face winter with a full pantry of preserved produce. How has your garden year turned out?

Because of the recent drought, it would benefit any recently planted (within the last 3 years) trees & shrubs to provide them with supplemental water before winter, as long as you have no restrictions on outdoor water use in your town. Older trees and shrubs, and those that were showing signs of weakness, would benefit from additional water, too. If you are unsure, please consult with your landscape professional for their advice.

Get ready for bird feeder season by cleaning out your feeders with hot soapy water, and be sure to rinse very well. Try and leave a few seed heads on flowers and ornamental grasses to feed finches and other small seed eaters. The seed heads and leaves provide much needed winter interest too. Leaving foliage intact on ornamental grass also acts to insulate the crowns and offers a bit more winter protection.

If you noticed your garden not growing as well as you thought it should, despite fertilizing and watering, you may want to check the soil pH. In New England our soil type tends to be on the acidic side of normal. Incorrect pH can limit a plant’s ability to uptake nutrients from the soil. It is recommended to apply lime to garden beds every other year or as needed. Fall is the best time of year to apply lime to your soil. The natural freeze/thaw action helps physically move the mineral into the soil structure. If you grow vegetables, replenishing lime is an important component to maintain the fertility of your beds. Adding lime will alter the pH, or acidity/alkalinity of the soil. Countryside can do a basic pH test to determine your needs.

Falling leaves mean it’s time to clean out your gutters before winter. Clogged gutters can create ice dams (frozen blocks of ice that prevent your gutters from free-flow) over the winter. Frozen gutters often lead to leaky roofs and big repair costs down the road.

Reduce winter damage caused by rodents and other gnawing animals by clearing away turf and weeds from the base of fruit bearing trees and shrubs. A trunk that is girdled by gnawing will likely cause the tree to die. Wrap the stems or trunks with hardware cloth (a kind of wire screening) to keep mice and rabbits from gnawing the bark.

After frost has killed the foliage of tender bulbs and tubers, (like dahlias, gladiola, and tuberous begonia) you may dig them up in preparation for storing them for next year. Cut back the tops to about 6”, and brush off any remaining soil. Let your bulbs or tubers ‘cure’ in a well ventilated cool, dark area for about 2 weeks. After the ‘cure’ they may be stored in peat moss filled containers. A protected area that stays about 40-50 degrees will keep them dormant until next spring.

Garden clean-ups are an important step in keeping your beds and plants disease free. Remove any organic debris from plants known to be susceptible to fungal and bacterial problems; Peonies, Roses, Tall Garden Phlox, and Lilacs are all healthier if we clear out their faded and/or blotchy plant material.

Need a hand with fall clean-up? Thinking about screening out the deer this winter? Give our office a call to schedule your fall and winter services: (413) 458-5586 or email info@countrysidelandscape.net

Tips to improve your patio and garden space

Now that leaves have fallen, and garden chores aren’t beckoning you may find you actually have some spare time to assess your yard. If gardens stayed the same year after year, we would not need to think about tweaking our outdoor spaces. Most gardens are not static, and the plants we grow do change and shift over time. I can easily see the young trees I planted ten years ago bear no resemblance to their former selves. I don’t plan on removing them, or drastically pruning them, but I will reconsider how I utilize the outdoor space I have created.

1. Consider your positive features. Every outdoor space has it’s ‘sweet spot’, try and look for your yard’s power position. You may have a fabulous view, or a terrific swimming pool and patio area. Highlight these areas by aligning your seating with a view towards these special places. Even if a nearby structure casts a long shadow, embrace the shade and create a soothing shade garden offering a respite from the busy world with comfy seating.

2. Make your backyard a place you want to escape to. Hang a hammock between two trees, or on an unused corner of a porch to create a simple hideaway. Create a gathering space, like a fire pit, for entertaining into the cooler months, or use heat lamps to extend your outdoor season well into fall. Build a treehouse that both kids and adults can use as a secret hangout.

3. Improve your gardens ambiance. Adding lighting will change the way your garden looks at night. Something as simple as a string a lights along the railing of the stairs, or an upward facing light at the base of your favorite tree, can add a dramatic touch. Discreet lights along a pathway will beckon your guests to follow along.

4. Don’t forget the audio. With the latest Bluetooth technology, having our favorite tunes to listen to is as easy as buying an outdoor speaker. There are many weatherproof types to choose from; some are even disguised as flower pots! If there is distracting noise you’d rather mask, think about installing a water feature, so all you’ll hear is the sound of trickling water. A bird bath bubbler would help your feathered friends and create a soothing sound at the same time.

5. Add a tree to bring everything together. The right tree can become the focal point of your outdoor space. Think about what you’d like to gain from the new tree. Would one that is multi-stemmed and spreading, and provide a privacy screen work for you? Or perhaps you’d want something with multiple season interest; flowers in spring, fruit in summer, and beautiful fall foliage? Maybe the best choice is something showy, but a dwarf specimen, to fit in your compact area. Taking the time to visit outdoor display gardens helps visualize what a tree will look like in your space. Consulting with your landscape professional is always a good choice, because they already know the soil and climate conditions you are working with.

Enjoy the ‘downtime’ fall and winter provides for gardeners. Now is our time to kick back for a while and relax; take stock of our past growing season, and plan for next year. Soon enough all the beautiful plant catalogs will start showing up in our mail and inboxes, and we can start the process of gardening again in 2023.

Thinking ahead…

After another summer of blistering heat, and scant rain, I am re-thinking my perennial beds to accommodate our changing climate. This summer, I finally stopped watering and decided to let nature take it’s course. I know this may sound harsh, but we must become water-wise for the betterment of all, if we want a tolerable future on planet earth. Here are a few ideas for perennials with exceptionally low water requirements.

Lavender is extremely drought tolerant, and actually dislikes abundant watering. I have seen it growing wild along the sides of the roads in the south of France. Growing in gravel, no water and blazing hot. Lavender needs full sun to do it’s best. Providing a cover of evergreen boughs over the winter will help keep ice from accumulating around the plant, and protect it from harsh weather. Very resistant to animal browsing.

Bees love Lavender

Echinacea or Purple Coneflower is a native plant that has been improved upon over the last few years, so is now available in many other colors besides purple. It’s ability to withstand drought and full sun remains the same fortunately. It’s native environment is out on the western prairie, and it has evolved to be a tough, yet beautiful addition to the garden. Makes a good cut flower too.

Purple Coneflowers also come in white, red, orange and yellow

Achillea or Yarrow has also been hybridized to include a multitude of new shades besides the common yellow color. Yarrow has the benefit of been resistant to animal browsing as well as being very drought tolerant. The flowers are good for cutting, and also can be dried for arrangements.

Yarrow and Russian Sage are pretty paired together

Perovskia or Russian Sage is a beautiful plant for very hot and dry locations. It prefers sandy, well draining soil in direct sun. It has the ability to blend into any color scheme, with it’s silvery-white leaves and lavender colored flowers. Several cultivars offer varying heights to fit into any sized garden. Very resistant to animal browsing.

Stachys byzantina or Wooly Lamb’s Ears adds texture and cool silver colors to the garden. It is grown primarily for the foliage, but will produce shoots with tiny lilac colored flowers too. Often placed to ‘cool down’ and compliment warm tones in the garden, Wooly Lamb’s Ears is a very versatile garden addition.

Wooly Lamb’s Ears

September 2022 Newsletter

September 1, 2022 by sharonmahoney

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 125
September 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Spotted Lanternflies are among us, be on the lookout!

Last month an established colony of this destructive non-native insect was found in Springfield, MA (Hampden County). Previously the only sightings were in Fitchburg and Shrewsbury, MA (Worcester County). I hate to be a pessimist, but this does not bode well for us. My family in New York City tells me that adult Lanternflies can be seen flying around just about everywhere; from the canyons of Wall Street, to the suburbs of Queens, even as high us as the eighth floor balcony! It only seems a matter of time before they are in our neighborhood.

2 views of adult Spotted Lanternflies

Even with a directive from the Governor to ‘kill Lanternflies on sight’, they are hard to catch and kill. They are like giant leafhoppers, and have the ability to jump quite fast and far. Anecdotally, I have read they only can sustain their hopping for about 3 jumps, so don’t give up! The Spotted Lanternfly has no known predators in the US, for now, as they originated from Asia. They will feed from an alarming amount of important food crops, and local farmers are rightly concerned about this pest becoming established in our region.

Adult Lanterflies swarming on a tree trunk

The spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), also known as a Lanternmoth, is neither a fly nor a moth. This insect is a member of the Order Hemiptera (true bugs, cicadas, hoppers, aphids, and others) and the Family Fulgoridae, also known as planthoppers. The adults and immatures of this species damage host plants by feeding on sap from stems, leaves, and the trunks of trees. Much of our information comes from research performed in PA, where the insect has been established since 2014. Adults can be found on tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), an invasive plant. In the fall in Pennsylvania, adult spotted lanternfly prefer to feed and mate on tree of heaven when compared to other host plants. That being said, proximity to tree of heaven did not significantly influence the number of spotted lanternfly found on other hosts in a 2015-2016 host plant evaluation conducted in PA. (After spending time on tree of heaven, the insects disperse in the local area to lay eggs just about anywhere.)

Lanternfly egg masses

According to the Massachusetts Dept. of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) there is no reason to be preemptively treating for this insect in other areas of the Commonwealth at this time. If you suspect you have found spotted lanternfly in additional locations, please report it immediately to MDAR. If you are living or working in any of the areas mentioned above, please be vigilant and continue to report anything suspicious. When the adult is at rest, particularly on the trunk of the tree of heaven, their gray, spotted color may actually cause them to blend in with their surroundings. Freshly laid egg masses appear as if coated with a white substance. As they age, the egg masses look as if they are coated with gray mud, which eventually takes on a dry/cracked appearance. Very old egg masses may look like rows of 30-50 brown seed-like structures aligned vertically in columns. Coated egg masses may look like “weird gypsy moth egg masses”, an insect we are more familiar with here in Massachusetts, but they are not.

Report Spotted Lanternfly in Massachusetts Here: https://massnrc.org/pests/slfreport.aspx (link is external) (Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project)

September’s to-do list

Wow, what a difference a year makes! Last year, at this time we were reeling from the effects of several tropical storms occurring back to back; drenching us with a month’s worth of rain in a day. This year the land is crying out for moisture, and we are in the midst of a critical drought throughout the Pioneer Valley, and much of Massachusetts. The rain we had last week was the first good soaking we received since June, but it has not quenched the dire need for sustained rain in this area. The only upside to this terrible shortage of rain, is that it has made the local peach harvest the sweetest and juiciest in memory. The lack of rain has concentrated the sugars within the fruit, and they have been just delicious! Buy some of local peaches, and enjoy them while they last. Until we get a break in the dry weather pattern, I would recommend holding off on any transplanting or dividing of perennials, unless you are able to really soak them with supplemental water prior to digging. Let’s hope for a more normal weather pattern this fall.

As my garden veggies struggle with the abnormally dry conditions, the weeds have had no problem at all holding their own through the sustained heat and drought. It’s discouraging to see these robust weeds next to stunted corn as I drive around the area. Get a handle on next year’s weeds now! Some of the worst offenders set seeds and propagate in the fall. Ragweed, the main culprit during allergy season, sets millions of dust-like seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for decades! Goldenrod has been found to not be the offender for allergies as we once thought it was. Some species of Goldenrod are grown as ornamental perennials. During late fall you may notice many bees and wasps congregating on Goldenrod flowers, it is an essential source of pollen and nectar after many other flowering plants have faded.

If you see some browning of needles, and leaves on evergreens, this is the normal cyclical shedding of the older and innermost needles, and leaves of these plants. Don’t worry if you see this browning of the interior needles/foliage of evergreen trees and shrubs during the fall. Autumn is the time evergreens will periodically shed their older needles that have begun to lose their ability to photosynthesize. This is nature’s way of ‘lightening the load’ so to speak, and preserving the integrity of the plant. Additionally, many trees have begun to prematurely shed leaves in the wake of the drought, if you are able to provide supplemental water in your area, please provide water to any young trees and shrubs (those planted within the last three seasons).

Buy garlic sets for planting next month before they are sold out. Once you’ve planted garlic, you’ll always have some bulbs or ‘seed’ to renew your crop. It is a sustainable crop; just reserve the largest bulbs for re-planting, save the small and moderate sized ones for cooking. Planting cloves from the larger bulbs almost always guarantees the biggest heads at next year’s harvest.

If you move your houseplants outdoors for the summer now is the time to gradually acclimate your houseplants back to indoor life. Move them onto a porch to simulate the lower light of indoors. Scrub the pots, and be sure to rinse off the foliage to knock off any clinging insects. You may need to re-pot houseplants that have outgrown their containers. Final step; spray the plants with Safer’s soap or other general purpose insecticide to kill any lingering pests.

Early fall is the time mice will be looking for winter homes, and bringing their germs and pests with them. In the Northeast, the White Footed mouse is the reservoir for the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Lyme disease is contracted when Blacklegged ticks feed on infected mice, then bite people. We utilize Damminix tick tubes to rely on the natural nesting instincts of mice to deliver tick controlling insecticide directly to the host animal and the ticks it infects. Biodegradable cardboard tubes are filled with permethrin treated cotton. Mice will collect the treated cotton for their bedding; the permethrin from the cotton is released onto the mouse’s fur, ticks that feed on the mice are exposed to the insecticide and killed before they can spread Lyme disease to you, your family and pets. Please contact our Damminix specialist, Scott Higley, for more information.
scott@countrysidelandscape.net

Need help with the fall garden chores? Want to get those weeds out once and for all? Contact our office to schedule your fall clean-up. info@countrysidelandscape.net (413) 458-5586

Mosquitoes are buzzing; be on the defense!

Back when I was an undergrad, my entomology professor asked us to name the world’s most fearsome predator. Students called out, “Tigers, crocodiles, wolves, etc.” but the true answer is mosquitoes. The tiny mosquito, whose population is about 100 trillion insects worldwide, contributes to the death of 700,000 humans every year. Scientists have estimated that the mosquito borne disease, malaria; has killed about half the total population of the earth, since humans have existed. Malaria infects more people now, than in any time in history; over 500,000 new cases per year. Malarial infection causes upwards of 2 million deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa; half of them children, annually. Closer to home, we have read with increasing alarm about other diseases that are transmitted by mosquitoes in our hemisphere; Zika, Dengue, West Nile, and EEE (EEE-Eastern equine encephalitis, first recognized in MA in 1831).

Researchers have attributed human exploration over centuries, and continued global expansion of travel and trade for introducing new species of mosquitoes to areas where they never were before. These foreign mosquito species have arrived carrying the infectious diseases with them. Contributing to the migration of mosquitoes is the warming of our planet. Areas that were limited to colonization by tropical mosquito species are now poised to allow them to thrive. In addition, warmer temperature can speed up the time it takes for the mosquito to mature into a biting adult. Warmer climate also accelerates the time between when a biting mosquito picks up a disease organism, and then becomes infectious, according to Dr. Oliver Brady, an assistant professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. The Aedes aegypti mosquito transmits Dengue, Zika, and chikingunya. One species variant is considered an ‘urban mosquito’; it likes to live in cities. Dengue, also known as ‘break-bone fever’, will infect 100 million people worldwide each year, and contribute to 10,000 deaths. The latest study published in the Journal of Microbiology predicts a very significant expansion of this disease in the southeastern United States, South/Central America, and the Caribbean in the coming years. With so many people traveling internationally every day, you can see how it may be possible to contract a mosquito borne illness without actually living in these regions.

A few mosquito facts: only the female mosquito bites, she requires a blood meal to nourish her eggs. Mosquitoes will bite anyone, she does not favor women over men, or brunettes over blonds. Mosquitoes are drawn to certain odors, like perfumes, and sweat. They prefer type O blood over other types. Female mosquitoes utilize a series of mouth parts to simultaneously inject an anti-coagulant into her bite, and suck your blood in the shortest time possible to avoid detection, and a possible smack. Mosquitoes can drink 3x their bodyweight in blood. There are 3,500 species of mosquito in the world. Scientists have developed methods to create sterile mosquitoes, in order to reduce their populations.

Even though we are considered low risk for EEE and West Nile Virus in our region of MA, counties in the eastern part of our state are at higher risk. Prevention is the key element in protecting yourself, and your family from mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, and the larvae require water to mature into flying insects. Eliminating standing water throughout your yard can prevent thousands of mosquitoes, as females lay hundreds of eggs at a time in as little as an ounce of water. Drill holes in trash and recycling containers so water will drain. Remove clogs of leaves in gutters to promote drainage. Be sure to aerate ornamental ponds, or add a few hungry fish. If you don’t already change the water in your birdbath every few days, step up the water changes. Check around your yard for areas of poor drainage/standing water and take measures to correct them. Mosquitoes are more active at dawn and dusk. Wear protective clothing; long sleeves and long pants, and use a mosquito repellent. A word of caution about repellents, DEET is not recommended for children under 2 months old, and oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be applied to children under 3 years old, permethrin products should not be applied directly to the skin, they are for clothing and outdoor gear only; as per MASS.gov website. For more information about repellents and mosquito prevention in MA please use this link: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/mosquito-repellents

Thinking ahead…

Fall is on the way, with an abundance of harvested fall fruit and vegetables, along with dramatic changes in our gardens. Many plants are beginning their descent into winter, but others are gearing up for a last blast of color before the growing season ends. With a little planning, you can have a fresh burst of color in your yard with some of these spectacular fall accent plants.

Viburnum nudum‘Brandywine’ The native Smooth Witherod Viburnum has very lustrous dark green leaves in summer. It blooms heavily in early summer followed by green fruit that quickly turns pink, finally finishing an electric blue. Fruit clusters are a mix of pink and blue throughout the growing season. Leaves turn a deep burgundy color in the fall. Grows 6’ wide x 6’ tall, and will happily grow in full sun to partial shade. V. nudum is not fussy about soil, and is resistant to deer browsing.

Viburnum nudum fruit

Spiraea thunbergii ‘Ogon’ the Willow leaved Spiraea holds its golden leaves until very late in the season, and would be a real eye catching beacon of golden light in your fall garden. ‘Ogon’ blooms with dainty white flower clusters before leaves emerge in the spring. This deer resistant shrub has arching branches, and grows 5’ wide X 5’ tall. ‘Ogon’ prefers full sun, but will tolerate some shade too.

Spiraea thunbergii ‘Ogon’

Andropogon gerardii ‘Red October’ Big Bluestem is a dramatic native prairie grass that turns brilliant scarlet red at the first hint of frost. Native ornamental grasses offer many advantages in the garden; food and shelter for birds and mammals, and interesting views through all seasons. Big Bluestem prefers, and grows best, in poor, dry soil. Grows 5-6’ tall, and requires full sun.

Andropogon gerardii ‘Red October’

Itea virginica ‘Henry’s Garnet’ the native Sweetspire shrub, has so much to offer the gardener. Very fragrant white flowers bloom from late spring into summer. As autumn approaches, the leaves change from green to sizzling ruby red and scarlet. Itea virginica prefers consistently moist soil, and full to partial sun conditions. ‘Henry’s Garnet’ Sweetspire grows 3’ tall x 5’ wide. If you are seeking to replace non-native plants such as ‘burning bush’ (Euonymus alata) sweetspire is a good candidate to replicate the intense red foliage of that invasive shrub.

Itea virginica

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Amber Jubilee’ This cultivar of our native Ninebark has striking copper-colored leaves that mature to a rich burgundy in the fall. Deep red berries add to the beauty of this shrub. Very adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions and deer resistant as well; prefers full sun. ‘Amber Jubilee’ grows 6’ tall X 4’ wide.

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Amber Jubilee’

June 2023 Newsletter

May 2023 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 133
May 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

April 2023 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 132
April 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

March 2023 Newsletter

February 2023 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 130
February 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

January 2023 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 129
January 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

December 2022 Newsletter

Issue 128
December 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

November 2022 Newsletter

October 2022 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 126
October 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Drought tolerant lawns and xeriscaping: the next big idea!

September 2022 Newsletter

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 125
September 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Spotted Lanternflies are among us, be on the lookout!

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 133May 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 132April 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 130February 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 129January 2023

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Issue 128December 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 126October 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Drought tolerant lawns and xeriscaping: the next big idea!

Countryside Corner Neighborly Garden News

Issue 125September 2022

Dear readers; please visit our website: www.countrysidelandscape.net for the safety measures we have in place during this pandemic.

Spotted Lanternflies are among us, be on the lookout!

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 133
May 2023

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 132
April 2023

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 130
February 2023

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 129
January 2023

Issue 128
December 2022

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 126
October 2022

Countryside Corner
Neighborly Garden News

Issue 125
September 2022