Plant selection is one of the keys to planting successful container gardens (see our previous post). Because plants in a container planting must co-exist in the same small environment, it is essential to select plants that have the same light and watering requirements. Before purchasing plants, decide where the container will be displayed so you know whether to choose plants that require full sun, partial shade or shade. ...read more

America’s favorite bedding and container plant, the ubiquitous geranium is getting its year in the sun. The National Garden Bureau has named 2012 “The Year of the Geranium.” Since the 1920s, the non-profit National Garden Bureau has been promoting the joys of home gardening through public awareness and education. This year, the bureau has turned its spotlight on an old-fashioned favorite and much-loved American classic, the geranium. ...read more

Every year the National Garden Bureau announces its selection of the 100 best new garden plants introduced that year. While the list includes new varieties of flowers, fruits and vegetables, it’s usually the annual and perennial flowers that receive the lion’s share of the attention from home gardeners. In past years, new varieties of Petunias and Impatiens have sold out quickly at local garden centers as gardeners rushed to add the latest must-have flowers to their garden beds. This year’s crop of new annuals and perennials promises to generate just as much gardening excitement. ...read more