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Tag Archive: gardening
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Protected: March Gardening Guide
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Protected: February Gardening Guide
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Different Types of Bird Seed
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Introduction
Not all bird seed is created equal, and choosing the right mix can make all the difference in attracting the birds you want to your yard. From sunflower seeds to suet, each type of seed brings something unique to your feeders. Keep reading to learn about the different kinds of bird seed and how to fill your feeders with the best options for attracting a variety of backyard birds!
Selecting the Right Feeder
While there are different types of feeders designed for various bird species, not all feeders are made the same! By selecting a proper feeder for your yard and the avian visitors who frequent it, you can easily attract and nourish our feathered friends all winter long (and beyond!). Here is a great article to reference when identifying your backyard birds.
Tube feeders (below, from left) are designed to attract smaller birds like chickadees, tufted titmice, white-breasted nuthatches, American goldfinches, and house finches. Tube feeders are best for black oil sunflowers, bird seed mixes, safflower seeds, or peanuts.
Another type is the hopper feeder (below), which is best for safflower and sunflower seeds or cracked corn. This feeder will attract similar species as the tube feeder in addition to larger birds like northern cardinals, blue jays, common grackles, and red-winged blackbirds.
Suet feeders (above) are another type of bird feeder that is used with high-calorie suet cakes. These specially designed cakes come in a variety of options and are loved by woodpeckers and other insect-eating birds. Suet feeders also attract tufted titmice, white-breasted nuthatches, and chickadees as well as the occasional Carolina wren and yellow-rumped warbler.
Another type of bird feeder is the platform feeder (above), which is used to attract species that like to feed on the ground. This includes species like dark-eyed juncos, cardinals, mourning doves, blue jays, and sparrows. However, this type of feeder is a less popular option due to how easily squirrels or other pests are able to steal food from the feeder. Therefore, if you want to use a platform feeder, consider purchasing one with an ample roof to keep out rain and snow.
Choosing Your Bird Seed Mix
While the type of feeder you select is important, choosing the right type of bird seed is essential to successfully attracting birds. Since different bird species have different dietary preferences, offering a variety of foods can attract a wider range of birds. Alternatively, you can select a mix with universal bird food favorites, such as black-oil sunflower seeds which are beloved by many feeder birds. However, if you want to attract specific species of birds to your feeder, purchase mixes specifically geared towards your desired visitors. Below are our top recommendations, all available for purchase in-store at Strange’s now!
Designed For Most Species:
Mixes For Songbird Species:
Designed for Suet/Insect-Loving Species:
Mixes for Specific Species:
We have sticks selected for finches, woodpeckers, cardinals, and chickadees, as well as songbird and backyard bird blends.
Designed to Eliminate Mess:
Mixes Designed to Keep Away Pests (and Attract More Birds!):
Placing your Feeder
Once you have selected your feeder and bird seed, select a location to place the feeder. This is crucial to how birds and other animals will receive your feeder. By placing them near natural covers, like trees or shrubs, you can provide safety for birds while allowing easy observation. We also recommended positioning feeders at different heights to accommodate different species. By strategically placing your feeders, you create an inviting feeding station that will attract a diverse array of birds.Be sure to regularly check on and refill your bird feeders. This is crucial to ensuring a consistent food supply for your feathered friends. Another important thing to note is that you must clean your feeders every 2 weeks. Use a scrub brush and mild detergent to scrub away debris and dry well before refilling. For the best clean, try a specially designed brush like this one (right) by Droll Yankees. To clean bird baths, scrub with a solution that is 9 parts water and 1 part vinegar.
Conclusion
Choosing the right feeders and food can help attract and nourish a variety of birds to your backyard. Every small effort you make supports their well-being and adds natural beauty to your surroundings. With these tips and our recommendations, you can turn your yard into a welcoming space for birds year-round!
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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Creating Winter Garden Interest
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Introduction
Winter doesn’t have to mean a dull, lifeless garden. With thoughtful planning, you can create a winter garden that dazzles with color, texture, and movement, even in the coldest months. By focusing on the beauty of bark, branches, berries, and winter-blooming flowers, you can design a winter garden that shines year-round. Let’s explore how you can make your garden come alive during the colder months.
Focus on Bark and Branches
First, consider how winter strips trees and shrubs of their leaves, revealing the intricate beauty of their bark and branches. Select trees with textured or colorful bark, such as salmon-pink, cinnamon-red, or stark white tones. Additionally, look for varieties with peeling or smooth bark for added character, and pay attention to lenticels—those raised, decorative bands on the bark that add subtle detail.
- Japanese Apricot: Fragrant blooms brighten late winter into early spring.
- American Holly: Festive red berries and glossy green leaves.
- Eastern Red Cedar: Hardy evergreen with year-round appeal.
- River Birch: Peeling bark adds unique texture and winter charm.
River birch bark adds a beautiful texture and color to winter gardens.
Incorporate Colorful Foliage
Next, consider how colorful foliage can dramatically contrast your winter garden landscape. Bright, colorful twigs create visual interest and can be a striking feature during the colder months. Look for deciduous shrubs and trees with twigs in shades of scarlet, yellow-green, or even deep black. Furthermore, plants with curling or uniquely shaped branches can provide even more visual intrigue.
- Japanese Pieris: Cascading flower clusters add elegance to winter gardens.
- Wintersweet: Fragrant blooms add sensory appeal in late winter.
- Quince: Bright flowers make a statement in late winter and early spring.
- Dwarf Blue Cedar: Compact and evergreen, perfect for winter.
- Ornamental Kale and Cabbage: Bold foliage that adds vibrant color in winter.
- Coral Bells: Evergreen foliage that adds texture year-round.
- Creeping Jenny: Dark winter foliage that regrows beautifully in spring.
Celebrate Winter Fruits and Berries
Another way to enhance your winter garden is by incorporating plants that produce vibrant fruits in the fall, which persist into winter. These berries gleam in the winter sunlight, adding color and attracting wildlife. To ensure these berries remain through the season, choose varieties that birds tend to save until spring.
- Winterberry: Bright red berries offer stunning visual interest.
- Chokeberry: Textural and visual interest for winter landscapes.
- Beautyberry: Eye-catching purple berries for winter color.
A cardinal rests among winterberry branches.
Considering Flowers for Your Winter Garden
Of course, no winter garden is complete without flowers. While flowers are often associated with spring, certain plants bloom in winter, adding bright pops of color to your garden. These hardy blooms endure harsh conditions and can help liven up your landscape when other plants may be dormant.
Blooming in Winter:
- Helleborus: Beautiful blooms that thrive in winter.
- Winter Jasmine: Bright yellow flowers appear from winter into early spring.
- Winter Daphne: Fragrant flowers from winter through early spring.
- Pansy: A cold-hardy favorite that blooms through winter into spring.
- Viola: Reliable blooms that last throughout the winter.
- Sweet Violet: Delicate blooms in late winter.
Hellebores bloom through the winter into spring.
Blooming in Late Winter and Early Spring:
- English Primrose: Adds cheer in late winter and early spring.
- Winter Aconite: Vibrant yellow blooms brighten late winter and early spring.
- Camellia: Luxurious blooms from late winter into early spring.
- Crocus: Pops of color in late winter and early spring.
- Reticulated Iris: Delicate early blooms in late winter and early spring.
- Snowdrops: Elegant white flowers that signal the end of winter.
- Glory of the Snow: Adds charm to late winter and early spring gardens.
Camellias are known for their cold-weather blooms.
Add Movement with Ornamental Grasses
In addition to trees, shrubs, and flowers, ornamental grasses can add another layer of interest. They offer texture, movement, and color in the cooler months. As they turn bronze, tan, or russet, they contrast beautifully with evergreen foliage, bright berries, and snow. Moreover, grasses also provide shelter and food for birds, making them a practical and beautiful addition to your winter garden.
- Little Bluestem: A warm-season grass with a striking blue-green color and vibrant fall hues.
- Blue Oat Grass: Compact, evergreen grass with striking blue-gray foliage.
- Feather Reed Grass: Tall, upright grass with feathery flower heads that add movement and interest.
- Northern Sea Oats: Graceful grass with drooping seed heads and golden tones, perfect for adding texture.
- Blue Fescue: Small, clumping grass with silvery-blue foliage, adding texture and contrast.
Conclusion
By incorporating these plants and techniques into your winter garden design, you can create a vibrant and dynamic landscape full of life, even during winter. From colorful stems and berries to winter-blooming flowers and ornamental grasses, there’s no shortage of ways to enhance your outdoor space. So, start planning and planting now, and you’ll be rewarded with a garden that’s stunning through every season.
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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Soil Testing 101
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Introduction
Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. However, soil quality varies; not all soil is naturally equipped to support optimal plant growth. By testing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, you can make targeted improvements to your plant’s nutrients. Here’s a comprehensive look at why soil testing matters, what you can expect from the results, and how to perform an accurate soil test.
Why Soil Testing Matters
Plants rely on soil for essential nutrients, but can only absorb these nutrients if the soil’s pH level is within the right range. A high pH can limit the availability of key nutrients like phosphorus and iron, while a low pH can sometimes lead to toxic levels for plants. Without balanced soil, your plants may suffer from stunted growth, poor yields, or disease susceptibility, making gardening more challenging than it needs to be.
Soil testing also reduces the need for excessive fertilization. By understanding your soil’s current nutrient profile, you can avoid over-fertilizing. This helps to save money and prevent nutrient runoff that can harm the environment. If your soil is already nutrient-rich, you may only need minimal fertilization or none at all.
What a Soil Testing Measures
A standard soil test goes beyond pH levels to assess other important soil characteristics. You’ll learn about:
- Soil Texture: Whether your soil is sandy, loamy, or clay-based. This affects drainage and how nutrients move through the soil.
- pH Level: The acidity or alkalinity of your soil, which influences nutrient availability.
- Nutrient Levels: Key nutrients like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium are evaluated to see if your soil is supporting healthy plant growth or needs amendments.
- Recommendations: Based on your soil’s characteristics, the lab will offer tailored recommendations on amendments, helping you achieve an ideal nutrient balance.
Armed with this information, you’ll have clear guidance on how to address any deficiencies and maintain balanced soil.
How to Take a Proper Soil Sample
Accurate soil testing depends on taking a representative sample. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Divide Your Garden: Separate areas of unique use, such as lawns, vegetable beds, and flower beds, and sample each area separately.
- Collect Samples: Use a stainless steel or chrome-plated trowel or shovel to dig 6–8 inches deep. Avoid using tools that may contaminate the sample with metals like copper or zinc.
- Gather Sub-Samples: In each section, take several sub-samples from different spots. For lawns, sample to a depth of 4 inches; for vegetable and flower beds, 6–8 inches. Remove any surface litter or mulch before sampling.
- Mix and Label: Combine sub-samples in a clean, plastic container. Once mixed, air-dry the soil, then place it in the soil sample box provided by your local Extension Office.
Each sample area should have a unique identifier, like “FRONT_YARD” or “GARDEN1,” so you can track your results accurately.
Sending Your Sample & Reading Results
Once you’ve collected your sample, fill out a Soil Sample Information Sheet and submit it, along with the sample, to a testing lab. Your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office provides free sample boxes and forms, and results are typically available within a few weeks.
When your test results arrive, they’ll include recommendations tailored to your soil’s needs. The report will often specify ideal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. For nitrogen, for example, you might see a recommendation to use compost or manure, ideally applied in the fall for winter breakdown. If potassium is lacking, options like greensand or wood ash can be added for long-term soil enrichment.
Conclusion
Soil testing is a straightforward step that yields substantial benefits, allowing you to garden with precision and care. By testing every 3–5 years, particularly in the fall, you’ll keep your garden soil at peak health. With a solid understanding of your soil, you’re equipped to create an ideal environment for your plants and enjoy a thriving garden. Happy gardening!
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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Planting Garlic in Zone 7
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Introduction
As fall paints our gardens in vibrant colors, it’s the perfect time to plant garlic in Zone 7! This beloved crop thrives when tucked into the soil as temperatures cool, developing strong roots before winter’s chill sets in. We recommend planting around two weeks after your average first frost date, typically by late October. This timing allows the plant to establish roots but keeps it from pushing out too much top growth, which can leave it vulnerable when the cold weather arrives.
Types of Garlic
Garlic comes in two delightful varieties: softneck and hardneck.
- Softneck is the star of many grocery stores. It doesn’t produce a flower stalk and boasts a longer shelf life, making it a great choice for our warmer Zone 7. Varieties like Inchelium Red and Red Toch will thrive in our gardens.
- Hardneck, with its charming flower stalks, offers fewer but larger cloves. It’s perfect for our cooler winters, and varieties like German Extra Hardy, Chesnok Red, and Music will reward you with delicious bulbs.
Peeling softneck garlic.
How & When to Plant Garlic
For our region, we recommend planting garlic about two to three weeks after the first average frost—around late October or early November. This year, the first average frost date is October 31st. As long as the ground isn’t frozen, it’s the perfect time to get those cloves in the ground. This helps them establish a strong root system without producing too much top growth too soon. Below are some of our top tips for planting your garlic.
- Choose the biggest cloves from your bulbs—bigger cloves mean bigger, healthier plants!
- Plant the cloves pointy side up, about 2-3 inches deep, with 6-8 inches of space between each one.
- Create patches instead of rows, allowing them to spread out and thrive without crowding.
Before planting, enrich your soil with plenty of organic matter like compost or aged manure. We recommend waiting to add fertilizer until later, as this can encourage early growth that’s easily damaged by winter weather.
Hardneck garlic, right, and cloves being planted.
Mulching & Care
After planting, give your garlic a cozy winter blanket of mulch—straw or pine needles work wonders for protection. In the chillier parts of Zone 7, a thicker layer of 4-6 inches is ideal. As spring arrives and temperatures warm, gently pull back the mulch and treat your crop with a dressing of high-nitrogen fertilizer.
Watering is key! Garlic loves deep, infrequent watering. Aim for about half an inch to one inch of water per week, but remember to stop watering as the leaves start to yellow, preparing the bulbs for harvest.
Harvesting & Storing
Your garlic will let you know when it’s time to harvest—when about 75% of the leaves have turned yellow, it’s showtime! Gently loosen the soil around each bulb with a garden fork and lift them carefully from the ground. Allow your harvested garlic to cure in a warm, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for 2-3 weeks. Once cured, trim the tops and roots, and store them in a cool, dry place between 40-60°F.
Conclusion
With our guide, you’ll be well on your way to growing a beautiful crop of garlic this fall, adding a touch of charm and flavor to your kitchen all year long! If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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Pet-Safe Fall Plants: Natives & Popular Plants
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Introduction
As we welcome the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall, many of us are eager to refresh our gardens with seasonal plants. But if you share your space with pets, you may want to be cautious. While fall favorites like mums are stunning, they’re not always safe for our furry companions. In fact, many popular fall plants can be toxic to pets, causing anything from mild irritation to serious health issues if ingested. Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful, pet-safe alternatives—many of which are also native to our area. Let’s explore some pet-friendly options and highlight what to avoid.
Pet-Safe & Native Plants
There’s no need to sacrifice beauty for safety. Plenty of native and non-native plants can thrive in your garden while ensuring your pets are safe. Native plants, in particular, are not only better for the environment, but they also tend to be hardier and better suited to local conditions. Here are some of the best options for a pet-safe, native fall garden:
- Sweetspire (Itea) (Native)
- Fountain Grass (Non-Native)
- Feather Reed Grass (Non-Native)
- New England Aster (Native)
- Heuchera (Native)
- Phlox (Native)
- Jacob’s Ladder (Native)
- Wild Pansies (Not garden pansies, but their wild relatives) (Native)
- Summersweet (Native)
Snapdragons (Non-Native)- Ninebark (Native)
- Bottlebrush Grass (Native)
- Wine Cups (Native)
- Tickseed (Native)
- Bee Balm (Native)
- Viburnums (Native)
- Fringe Tree (Native)
- Redbud (Native)
- Coneflowers (Native)
- Junipers (Native)
These plants offer beautiful colors, textures, and wildlife support. Also, they do not pose risks to your pets. From vibrant asters to ornamental grasses, you’ll have plenty of options to create a stunning fall garden.
Plants to Avoid
While some plants may seem harmless or even common in fall gardens, it’s important to recognize that they can be dangerous to pets. Therefore, here is a list of plants you should avoid if your pets have access to the garden:
- Amaryllis (Non-Native)
- American Holly (Non-Native)
- Crabapples (Non-Native)
- Boxwood (Non-Native)
- Cardinal Flower (Native)
- Clematis (Non-Native)
- European Holly (Non-Native)
- Foxglove (Non-Native)
- Gardenia (Non-Native)
- Golden Ragwort (Native)
- Milkweed (Native)
- Yews (Non-Native)
- Hosta (Non-Native)
- Hydrangea (Non-Native)
- Laurel (Non-Native)
- Lavender (Non-Native)
- Lobelia (Native)
- Peony (Non-Native)
- Periwinkle (Non-Native)
- Primrose (Non-Native)
- Rhododendron (Non-Native)
- Tulip (Non-Native)
- Yarrow (Native)
- Crocus (Non-Native)
- Azalea (Non-Native)
- Daffodil (Non-Native)
- Elderberry (Native)
- Hyacinth (Non-Native)
- Iris (Non-Native)
- Ivy (Non-Native)
- Larkspur (Non-Native)
- Lily of the Valley (Non-Native)
- Morning Glory (Non-Native)
- Wisteria (Non-Native)
- Mums (Non-Native)
- Red Maple (Native)
- Ginkgo Tree Seeds (Non-Native)
While these plants may be visually appealing, they can pose significant health risks to pets if ingested, causing anything from mild stomach upset to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or organ failure. It’s best to avoid them entirely if your pets spend time in the garden.
Conclusion
Creating a pet-friendly fall garden doesn’t mean giving up on beauty or seasonal charm. By selecting native and pet-safe plants, you can enjoy a vibrant autumn display without worrying about the safety of your four-legged companions. When planning your fall garden, keep this guide handy to ensure your pets can explore your outdoor spaces safely. Happy gardening! 🌿🐾
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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How to Overwinter Perennials in Pots
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Introduction
As gardening enthusiasts, we often hear about the “rules” that dictate how to grow and care for our plants. But if you want to grow perennials or shrubs in pots and are not keen on keeping them around year after year? That’s okay! Gardening should be enjoyable and flexible, tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you plan to discard your potted plants at the end of the season or try overwintering them, this guide will help you understand how to make the most of your potted garden.
Choosing Hardy Plants
Selecting the right plants is crucial if you want to keep your perennials or shrubs thriving in pots over the winter. A general rule of thumb is to choose two zones hardier plants than your local climate. Why? Because plants in pots are more exposed to the elements. Unlike plants in the ground, the soil in a pot freezes harder and thaws faster, which can lead to multiple freeze/thaw cycles—something that’s tough on plants. While you can risk overwintering plants that are only one zone hardier, your success will depend on how mild or harsh the winter is.
Selecting the Right Pot
Not all pots are created equal when it comes to enduring the winter. Containers made of clay, glazed ceramic, or porcelain are prone to cracking during freeze/thaw cycles. If you plan to leave your pots outside, opt for materials like plastic, composite, metal, or wood, which are better suited for winter conditions. Even with the right pot, remember that overwintering plants aren’t entirely carefree. Also, moisture levels should be monitored, and fertilization should be avoided while the plants are dormant.
Overwintering Techniques
For those plants that aren’t as hardy, or if you’re just playing it safe, there are several strategies you can use to help them survive the winter:
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Unheated Garage:
- Place your pots in an unheated garage or another sheltered spot. The building’s protection will reduce the impact of freeze/thaw cycles. Make sure to water the plants occasionally so the soil doesn’t dry out completely.
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Bury the Pot:
- Dig a hole in your garden, place the pot in it, and cover it with soil. This method helps the pot maintain the same temperature as the surrounding ground, protecting the roots from extreme cold.
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Transplant to Ground:
- Transplant the plant into the ground for the winter and then repot it in the spring. This gives the plant the best chance of survival during the cold months.
Conclusion
Overwintering perennials and shrubs in pots doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By choosing the right plants and containers, and using some tried-and-true techniques, you can enjoy your garden year-round without worrying about losing your favorite plants to the cold. Remember, gardening is all about finding what works best for you—whether that means overwintering your plants or starting fresh each spring.
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
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Native Plant Guide for a Thriving Fall Landscape
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Introduction
As the vibrant hues of fall begin to color our landscapes, many U.S. households are preparing their gardens for the cooler seasons. Fall is the perfect time to plant, and more gardeners are turning to native plants to enhance their outdoor spaces. Not only do these plants add beauty, but they also thrive in local conditions, making them a practical and rewarding choice for any garden.
The Popularity of Native Plants
Native plants have become increasingly popular among gardeners who are looking for hardy, low-maintenance options that can withstand the seasonal changes. In fact, a growing number of gardeners—nearly 40%—are now choosing native species for their gardens. Plus, these plants are known for their resilience, requiring less water and care once established. As a result, they are an excellent choice for those looking to create a stunning fall garden without the need for constant upkeep.
Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant
Fall is an ideal season for planting native plants, as the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall provide optimal conditions for roots to establish before winter. By taking this head start, the season allows native plants to flourish come spring, offering a burst of color and life to your garden. Whether you’re planting perennials, shrubs, or trees, starting in the fall gives your garden a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Top Native Plant Picks for Fall
When it comes to choosing the right native plants for your fall garden, the options are plentiful. Here are some top recommendations:
Trees:
- Striped Maple: A small tree with striking bark that provides great fall color.
- Red Maple: Known for its vibrant red foliage, perfect for adding a pop of color to your fall landscape.
- Yellow Buckeye: A large tree with showy flowers and attractive fall foliage.
- Eastern Redbud: A small tree with heart-shaped leaves and brilliant fall colors.
- Fringe Tree: This tree offers fragrant, white fringe-like flowers in spring and vibrant fall color.
- Flowering Dogwood: A popular tree with striking white or pink flowers and red fall foliage.
- Common Pawpaw: Offers large, tropical-looking leaves that turn golden in the fall.
- Magnolia: Known for its large, fragrant flowers and glossy foliage.
- Black Cherry: A large tree that provides beautiful fall color and is great for wildlife.
- White Oak: A majestic tree with deep red fall foliage.
- Scarlet Oak: Known for its brilliant scarlet fall leaves.
- Chestnut Oak: A large tree with distinctive ridged bark and vibrant fall color.
- Northern Red Oak: Offers stunning red foliage in the fall.
- Sourwood: A small tree with brilliant red fall foliage and summer flowers.
- Sassafras: Provides multi-colored fall foliage ranging from yellow to orange to red.
- Red Mulberry: A medium-sized tree with edible fruit and attractive foliage.
Shrubs:
- Juneberry (Serviceberry): A multi-season shrub with white spring flowers, edible summer berries, and vibrant fall color.
- Red/Black Chokeberry: A hardy shrub with brilliant fall foliage and clusters of red or black berries.
- American Beautyberry: Known for its bright purple berries and attractive foliage.
- Sweetshrub (Carolina Allspice): Offers fragrant flowers and rich fall foliage.
- Mountain Pepperbush: A shade-tolerant shrub with fragrant flowers and good fall color.
- American Holly: A classic evergreen with bright red berries and glossy foliage.
- Virginia Sweetspire: A versatile shrub with cascading flowers and brilliant fall color.
- Northern Spicebush: A fragrant shrub with yellow flowers and yellow fall foliage.
- Oakleaf Hydrangea: This shrub offers stunning fall foliage and beautiful blooms.
- Fragrant Sumac: A low-growing shrub with aromatic foliage and striking fall color.
- Staghorn Sumac: Known for its dramatic red fall foliage and fuzzy stems.
- Smooth Witherod: A shrub with glossy leaves, white flowers, and vibrant fall color.
- Viburnum: Offers attractive flowers, berries, and fall foliage.
- Meadowsweet: A hardy shrub with white flowers and good fall color.
Flowers:
- Eastern Bluestar: Known for its star-shaped blue flowers and golden fall foliage.
- Asters: A group of late-blooming perennials that provide vibrant fall color.
- American Bellflower: A tall, striking plant with bell-shaped blue flowers.
- Pink Turtlehead: Offers spikes of pink flowers that resemble turtle heads.
- Green and Gold: A groundcover with yellow flowers and evergreen foliage.
- Appalachian Bugbane: A tall, elegant plant with fragrant white flowers.
- Curlyheads: A vine with unique, twisted flowers and attractive seed heads.
- Northern Horse Balm: A tall, aromatic plant with yellow flowers.
- Blue Mistflower: A late-blooming perennial with clusters of fluffy blue flowers.
- Tickseed/Coreopsis: A tall, showy plant with bright yellow flowers.
- Wild Bleeding Heart: A delicate plant with heart-shaped flowers.
- Coneflower: A popular perennial with large, showy flowers that attract pollinators.
- Flowering Spurge: A drought-tolerant plant with white flowers and attractive foliage.
Flowers, continued:
- Joe Pye Weed: A tall, showy plant with clusters of pinkish-purple flowers.
- Woodland Sunflower: A tall plant with bright yellow flowers.
- False Sunflower: A hardy perennial with sunflower-like blooms.
- Hairy Alumroot: A shade-tolerant plant with attractive foliage and small flowers.
- Rose Mallow: A tall plant with large, showy flowers in shades of pink and white.
- Alleghany Stonecrop: A drought-tolerant plant with succulent foliage and star-shaped flowers.
- Cardinal Flower: Known for its vibrant red flowers that attract hummingbirds.
- Great Blue Lobelia: A late-blooming perennial with spikes of blue flowers.
- Bee Balm: A pollinator favorite with vibrant, spiky flowers.
- Common Evening Primrose: A biennial plant with yellow flowers that bloom in the evening.
- Garden Phlox: A tall perennial with fragrant flowers in a variety of colors.
- Mountain Mint: A highly aromatic plant with clusters of white or pink flowers.
- Goldenrod: A late-blooming perennial with tall spikes of yellow flowers.
- Spiderwort: A versatile plant with blue, purple, or white flowers.
- Tall Ironweed: A tall, sturdy plant with clusters of purple flowers.
- Zizia: A yellow-flowering perennial that blooms in early spring.
Tips for Successful Fall Planting
To ensure your native plants thrive, follow these simple tips:
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- Prepare Your Soil: Start by enriching your soil with organic matter to give your plants the nutrients they need.
- Plant Early: Next, aim to plant your native species by mid-fall to give them ample time to establish roots before the ground freezes.
- Water Wisely: While native plants are drought-tolerant once established, they still need regular watering during their first season. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
- Mulch: By adding a layer of mulch around your plants, you can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. This will also help in providing extra protection during colder months.
Conclusion
Planting native plants in the fall is a smart choice for any gardener looking to create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape. With the right selections and a bit of preparation, your garden will be set to flourish in the coming seasons. Ready to get started? Visit our website for more planting tips and discover our full range of native plants perfect for your fall garden. Happy planting!
If you have any questions that weren’t answered or need more information, feel free to stop by and see us at either the Broad St. or Mechanicsville location. You can also give us a call or drop us an email at info@stranges.com. We’re here to help you grow better!
Connect with Strange’s:
Instagram: @StrangesRVA Facebook: @Strange’s Florist
Mechanicsville: 804-321-2200 West Broad: 804-360-2800
