Insights & Inspiration
Autumn Color and Winter Dormancy
As October arrives, the landscape shifts with vibrant fall colors resulting from changing pigments in leaves. Chlorophyll breaks down, revealing carotenoids and anthocyanins, creating stunning hues. Trees prepare for dormancy as shorter days and cooler temperatures signal the need to conserve energy. Environmental factors also influence color vibrancy each year.
Fall blooming Perennials and Annuals
Having plants that bloom in Fall is a perfect way to ease the transition from summer into winter. These plants give us something to look forward to in the garden at a time of year when many plants in nature begin to slow down.
Introduction to Succulents
In recent years succulents have become very popular houseplants. Taking care of succulents is relatively simple. Their two main requirements are good drainage and plenty of light. If you’re growing succulents inside, the best place for them is a south facing window, or under a grow light. You can purchase grow lights at many nurseries or online.
Flowering Trees
Late Spring showcases blooming flowering trees, particularly in the upper Midwest. Notable varieties include the ‘Royal Star’ and ‘Jane’ Magnolias, Northern Redbuds, Crabapples, Fringe trees, Lilacs, Serviceberries, and American Witch Hazel. These trees enhance landscape aesthetics and are ideal for smaller gardens, offering vibrant colors and seasonal interest.
Heavenly Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas. One of the more prolific blooming shrubs for Minnesota, that are extremely cold-hardy, durable, and did I forget to mention spectacular?
MYCORRHIZAE
Wait! Don’t let this fungus scare you off from reading this! This little guy is a beneficial fungus that holds the title of one of the oldest symbiotic relationships in the plant kingdom! Mycorrhizae are vital to a plants survival, just like humans need food, water and air to survive, plants need water, Phosphorus and Nitrogen to survive, and that’s exactly what the mycorrhizae assist with in each plant.