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Psychology of Color
July 26, 2023 5:00 pm Comments Off on Psychology of Color

Introduction

Flowers have been used for centuries to communicate without words. Colors hold a special significance in this non-verbal language. Each color evokes distinct responses, creating a unique emotional impact. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating psychology of color in flowers and arrangements, helping you harness the power of colors to create the perfect ambiance in your home.

Psychology of Color

Red

The color red symbolizes passion, love, and desire. It is traditionally associated with intense emotions, romance, and affection. Additionally, red can symbolize respect and courage. Its vibrant and bold nature quickly captures attention, making it an ideal choice for expressing strong feelings or making a statement. Commonly, red flowers can be used to convey love, especially in romantic settings, but they can also signify admiration and courage in various situations. This uplifting color is perfect for eye-catching arrangements that leave a lasting impression.

Pink

Pink represents a gentler form of love compared to the fiery red. It is associated with springtime, innocence, and new beginnings, making it a popular choice for weddings and baby showers. Pink flowers can also symbolize happiness, femininity, and innocence. They are perfect for conveying the desire to build something special in the early stages of a relationship. Additionally, pink flowers serve as a beautiful way to express gratitude on any occasion. Consider adding pink flowers to areas where you want to infuse a fresh and delicate touch.

Orange

The color orange exudes feelings of optimism and enthusiasm. The color can also symbolize hope, inspiration, friendship, and creativity. Orange flowers are an excellent choice for gifting to someone who may need cheering up or to celebrate success and achievements. Like red, orange is an uplifting color that adds vibrancy to any room. Embrace this vibrant hue to bring joy and zest into your spaces.

Yellow

The color yellow represents positivity, freshness, happiness, and warmth. It symbolizes playfulness and platonic love. Historically, yellow flowers were linked to wealth, good health, and respect. Like orange and red, yellow is a highly uplifting color. Yellow flowers are perfect for expressing gratitude and lifting spirits. These flowers are ideal for friendly get-togethers or cheering up someone in need of a boost. Place yellow flowers in visible spots to brighten your day every day.

Green

Green symbolizes growth, fertility, harmony, youthfulness, and renewal. It is also associated with money, wealth, and luck. Green also helps alleviate anxiety and negative emotions. Incorporate green flowers into arrangements to signify well wishes for a fresh start, and create spaces that promote calmness and positivity. Bring green blooms into your space to infuse serenity into your environment.

Blue

Blue represents freedom, imagination, tranquility, and loyalty. It historically symbolized wisdom as well. Blue flowers are also among the most relaxing, making them ideal for creating peaceful atmospheres. Blue flowers can be included in bouquets to send well wishes and are a popular choice for spa and wellness environments, as well. Embrace the calming power of blue flowers to create a serene and soothing ambiance in your space.

Purple

Purple flowers are symbolic of regality, elegance, success, and wisdom. Additionally, they represent creativity, luxury, and maturity. Purple flowers also uplift spirits and increase sensitivity, making them suitable for celebrating life-changing events like weddings, graduations, anniversaries, and retirements. With an enchanted and majestic quality, purple flowers add elegance to any setting. Use them to create a sense of grandeur in your environment.

White

These flowers symbolize innocence, spirituality, rebirth, clarity, and peace. White flowers also have relaxing and uplifting qualities. Also, white blooms are a popular choice for weddings, graduations, anniversaries, and other special occasions to express respect and sympathy. The serene and elegant aura of white flowers adds a touch of sophistication to any setting.

Conclusion

The psychology of color in flowers and arrangements is a captivating realm that speaks to our emotions and creates meaningful connections. Each hue carries its unique symbolism, influencing the atmosphere and emotions of the space it inhabits. By understanding the psychology behind these colors, you can artfully utilize them to express love, create tranquility, inspire optimism, and uplift spirits. So, the next time you’re selecting flowers or creating a floral arrangement, consider the psychology of color!

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
Midsummer Garden Checklist
July 3, 2023 1:28 pm Comments Off on Midsummer Garden Checklist

Introduction

As we continue into summer, it’s not uncommon to feel a slight dip in your gardening enthusiasm. The once-flourishing plants in your garden may not live up to picture-perfect expectations and the scorching heat certainly doesn’t help. But fear not! If you find yourself and your garden in the midsummer doldrums, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to perk you up.

Midsummer Checklist
- Planting with Precision: Overplanting can hinder your plants’ performance and growth. Avoid overcrowding by understanding the mature size of your plants. Then, space them accordingly with planting. A little effort in research at the beginning will save you a lot of effort later on. Adequate lighting is also crucial. Ensure that your sun-loving plants are placed in spots that receive ample sunlight, and shade-loving varieties are not overwhelmed by excessive shade.
- Weed Control: Take a proactive approach to weed management. Dedicate a brief period each morning to pull out any invading weeds. By nipping them in the bud early, you’ll prevent them from taking over and robbing your plants of essential nutrients.
- Thin Out Plantings: Give your root vegetables, like carrots or beets, room to flourish by thinning them out. Then, aim for spacing of approximately two finger-widths between plants, allowing them to develop strong and healthy roots.
- Mid-Season Feeding: Boost your plants’ vitality by providing a mid-season feeding. Dress them with compost or aged manure, or consider offering a liquid fish emulsion fertilizer or manure tea when watering. This added nutrition will fuel their growth and enhance their resilience.
- Watering Wisdom: Establish a watering routine that ensures optimal hydration for your plants. Set up a rain gauge to measure rainfall, aiming for one to two inches per week. If rainfall is insufficient, supplement with deep watering. Dig down around six inches to gauge soil moisture levels, focusing on the root zone. Soaker hoses are excellent for precise watering, promoting healthy root development, and minimizing water waste.
- Planting for Fall: Midsummer is the perfect time to plan ahead for fall crops. First, take note of your area’s first frost date. If intending to plant tender, warm-weather crops such as beans or cucumbers, ensure enough time for the plants to grow before frost begins. Alternatively, choose frost-hardy fall crops such as broccoli, kale, bok choy, carrots, beets, radishes, turnips, spinach, and peas.
- Pest Patrol: Regularly scout for pests, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves where they often hide and lay eggs. Take advantage of the morning hours when insects are groggy, knocking them into a bucket of soapy water for a swift demise.
- Timely Harvest: Don’t neglect your vegetable garden! Harvest crops promptly, picking them before they become overripe. Leaving them on the vine after seed maturation will slow down or halt fruit production. Additionally, stay on top of deadheading spent flowers in your flower beds to promote bushy growth and redirect the plant’s energy for healthy regrowth. More information about deadheading here.
- Container Care: Container plants require extra attention as they tend to dry out quickly in hot weather. Ensure regular watering but be mindful of nutrient depletion. Also, consider using liquid fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers to maintain healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
- Mulching Matters: If you haven’t mulched your plants earlier in the season or need to replenish the mulch layer, now is the time. Mulch acts as a protective shield for plant roots, preventing soil drying and weed growth. Choose organic materials like shredded wood, leaves, straw, grass clippings, or non-glossy newspaper, which also enrich the soil as they decompose.
Conclusion

By implementing these midsummer checks and adjustments, you can revive your garden and regain that initial optimism. Don’t let the midsummer slump dampen your spirits! Roll up your sleeves, follow these tips, and watch your garden thrive once again. Happy gardening!

If you have any questions that weren’t answered, or if you 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
How to Create a Rain Garden
June 7, 2023 4:24 pm Comments Off on How to Create a Rain Garden

Introduction

If you’re concerned about runoff water in your yard, whether due to a damp basement or environmental interests, then a rain garden might be the perfect addition. Adding a rain garden is not only a functional way to protect the environment but also adds beauty and diversity to your landscape. In this article, we will explore the benefits of rain gardens and provide you with essential tips to create your very own rain garden oasis.

What is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a perennial garden that collects runoff rainwater from non-permeable surfaces such as roofs, driveways, and sidewalks. Rain gardens allow stormwater to return to the ground, reducing runoff and erosion while keeping pollutants from entering our waterways. Rain gardens are designed to absorb and process more water than traditional turf lawns, making them an effective solution for managing excess water. By planting deep-rooted plants in the garden, water can seep into the soil rapidly so that water is only for a day or two at most.

Choosing the Right Location

To begin creating your rain garden, identify a naturally low area in your yard where water naturally flows. It is important that the area will also be in full sun to part shade. Looking downhill from paved surfaces or where roof downspouts pour out are excellent starting points. Avoid areas where standing water collects as this indicates slow-draining soil. Be sure to place the rain garden away from buildings and structures to prevent water seepage into foundations. Also, consider where septic tanks and utility lines are located and place your garden at least 50 ft away.

Selecting the Plants

When it comes to plant selection, opt for native plants whenever possible. Native plants can tolerate both short periods of drought and standing water, making them perfect for rain gardens. They also have deep root systems that guide water down into the soil. Native plants also benefit pollinators, which adds another environmentally-friendly function to your rain garden. Here are some of our recommendations for your rain garden:

Consider the conditions your plants will be living in as well. Plant varieties with “average to moist” water requirements should be placed in the deepest part of the garden. These should be plants that like standing water, such as ferns. As you move out from the center’s standing water, you can begin to plant varieties that will tolerate occasional standing water on the slopes. Finally, on the higher edges of the bed, plant varieties with “average to dry” water requirements. This includes most native perennials and species that prefer a drier climate. For more information, check out this handy guide by Plant Virginia Natives.

Creating and Caring for Your Garden

To create your rain garden, you’ll need some essential tools like a level, spade, and wheelbarrow. You can also utilize materials such as river rock, decorative rocks and boulders, mulch, landscape fabric, and PVC pipe as necessary. Determining the size and depth of your rain garden depends on how quickly the soil absorbs water. You want the garden to fill during a rainfall, but drain within 24 hours. Dig a small test hole in the garden area, fill it with water, and observe how fast it drains. Use this information to calculate the ideal depth and size of your rain garden based on the volume of water runoff from your roof and how much space permits. You can also use this handy calculator to estimate how big your gardens should be.

To create the garden, first, make a berm in a low spot and create swales to channel runoff from gutters and other higher areas of your yard. Use river rock or PVC piping to direct water to the rain garden, ensuring it is at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent water damage. Be sure to include an overfill area as well so that flooding will cause minimal damage. More detailed instructions and plans can be found here.

During the first year, water your rain garden regularly to help establish the plants. Mulch with shredded hardwood mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Baby your garden and provide regular maintenance, such as weeding and checking the plants’ health. For general care, water regularly, especially during dry spells. Native plants are generally low-maintenance once established and can withstand dry conditions.

Conclusion

By incorporating a rain garden into your landscape, you will be able to manage stormwater runoff while creating a beautiful and environmentally-friendly space. The combination of native plants and proper design allows rain gardens to play a vital role in reducing erosion, protecting waterways, and supporting pollinators. Take the initiative to nurture your land and protect the environment by implementing a rain garden in your yard today.

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 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
Guide to Growing Summer Herbs
May 26, 2023 12:21 pm Comments Off on Guide to Growing Summer Herbs

Introduction

Are you looking to add a touch of freshness and flavor to your culinary adventures? Starting your own herb garden is the perfect solution! Whether you have a spacious backyard or a compact apartment, herbs can be grown in various settings, from pots and containers to garden beds. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of setting up your herb garden and share some valuable tips along the way. Get ready to embark on a journey of nurturing and harvesting your own homegrown summer herbs that will elevate the taste of your favorite dishes!

Starting Your Herb Garden

First things first, you need to choose the ideal spot for your herb garden. Whether you have a sunny balcony, a small patio, or a spacious backyard, herbs can flourish in pots, containers, or garden beds, both indoors and outdoors. Ensure that your chosen location receives a minimum of four to six hours of sunlight daily, as this is crucial for the growth and vitality of your plants.

Once you’ve determined the perfect spot, it’s time to select your herbs and start planting. To simplify the process and save time, we recommend purchasing seedlings of your desired herbs. At Strange’s, we offer a diverse selection of ready-to-plant herb seedlings, so you can start your garden today! Whether you fancy the robust aroma of basil, the refreshing zest of mint, or the delicate fragrance of rosemary, we have the herbs to suit your taste and preferences. Here are our recommendations for summer herbs:

Now, let’s talk about planting techniques and essentials. Begin by using high-quality potting soil that drains well, providing an optimal environment for your herbs to thrive. Enhance the soil’s fertility by incorporating fertilizer or compost, ensuring your plants receive the necessary nutrients. For both indoor and outdoor herb gardens, we highly recommend using Espoma Garden-tone.

If you opt for planting in pots, remember to select containers with drainage holes to prevent overwatering, which can harm your herbs. On the other hand, if you prefer a garden bed, don’t hesitate to plant your herbs close together or alongside other plants. Herbs are fantastic space fillers and companion plants, creating a beautiful and harmonious garden. However, do note that certain herbs, such as mint and lemongrass, have a tendency to take over if planted directly in the ground. To avoid this, it’s best to grow them in pots rather than in garden beds.

Proper watering is essential to keep your herbs healthy. Thoroughly water them after planting, and thereafter, water whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Remember not to overwater, as it can lead to root rot and other issues. Strike a balance by providing enough hydration while allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.

Harvesting & Using Your Herbs

As your herbs grow and flourish, the time will come to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Once they reach a height of six to eight inches, you can begin harvesting them. Use pruning shears or sharp kitchen scissors to cut off roughly a third of the branches, snipping near leaf intersections. Regular harvesting stimulates new leaf growth, preventing your herbs from going to seed prematurely. Don’t be afraid to trim generously!

Homegrown, fresh herbs are the secret ingredients that can elevate any dish to new heights of culinary excellence. Their aromatic flavors and vibrant colors add that special touch to your recipes. Now that you have mastered the art of herb gardening, it’s time to put your delicious harvest to good use! Check out our Pinterest board below for some delightful recipe ideas featuring our favorite summer herbs.

And what if you find yourself with an abundance of herbs? Fear not! There’s a simple and practical solution. Chop your excess herbs and place them in an ice cube tray. Cover them with either olive oil for cooking purposes or water for refreshing drinks and cocktails. Freeze the tray, and whenever you need a burst of flavor, simply pop out a herb-infused cube. It’s a delightful way to enjoy your homegrown herbs all year round!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve learned the essential steps to create and maintain your own herb garden. By choosing a suitable location, providing adequate sunlight, and using quality soil and fertilizers, you’ve set the stage for your herbs to flourish. Remember to water them regularly and harvest with enthusiasm, knowing that each snip promotes new growth. And don’t forget, even if you find yourself with an abundance of herbs, you can preserve their flavors by freezing them in oil or water. With your herb garden in full swing, you now have a vibrant array of fresh ingredients at your fingertips, ready to take your culinary creations to new heights. So go ahead, experiment with different recipes, and savor the rich flavors that only homegrown herbs can provide. Happy gardening and bon appétit!

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 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
How to Transition Houseplants Outside for Summer
May 10, 2023 2:23 pm Comments Off on How to Transition Houseplants Outside for Summer

Introduction

Transitioning your houseplants outside in the summer can be an excellent way for them to thrive. After all, many houseplants evolved outside and enjoy the fresh air and bright light. However, it is important to properly transition your plants to being outdoors to prevent stress and damage. Even the most sun-loving plants risk burns from the bright direct outdoor sun if not acclimated correctly. With so many variables, it can be hard to know how to care for your plants properly during their time outdoors. Here are our tips for having the smoothest transition!

Moving Indoor Houseplants Outside

The first step in moving your houseplants outside is to begin the acclimation process. Acclimation works by gradually introducing your plants to the differences in light intensity or temperature in their new home so that they can incrementally adjust. This step is crucial in moving in your plants outside; without it, you risk undue stress to the plant that could halt its growth or cause damage. However, it is best to wait until at least three weeks after the last predicted frost in your area to safely begin the process.

For Richmond, the last predicted frost date was April 9th, which places us well within the accepted time frame to begin the acclimation process. It is important to note, however, that you should monitor the weather during this period and move your plants inside if night-time temperatures drop below 50°F.

To properly acclimate your plants, begin by selecting a shaded area where the plants can be gradually exposed to their new environment. Avoid areas with direct sunlight as the light can damage the leaves. Sun-loving plants are able to receive direct sun in the morning when it is less intense, but it’s still best to wait at least ten days into the acclimation process to move into the direct sun for short periods of time.

Over a period of 7 to 10 days, begin moving your plants to your selected shady area during the day. Start with an hour or two on the first day, then begin to gradually increase the length of time. As the process continues, you will be able to leave your plants out longer. After a couple of weeks, the houseplants will be able to remain in their outside setting throughout the summer season.

Watering Guide

When moving your plants outside, it is also important to consider how changes in the environment will make your watering schedule more variable and dependent on external factors. For one, the increased temperature, light exposure, and wind will cause your plants to utilize water faster. Humidity and rainfall will also have effects on watering. Plants in low humidity need watering more frequently and vice versa, while a good rainfall (roughly 1″ or more) can replace a thorough soaking and cause plants to require less watering.

With so many variables at play, remember these important tips to ensure proper plant care:
- - Most plants need watering every day, whether by rain or by hose or watering can. Outdoor plants dry out faster than you think!
  - Check your plants and their soil moisture daily, especially during the acclimation period, to monitor their reactions to the weather and check for pests.
  - Water your plants in the morning or evening, when the temperatures are cooler, and the water can penetrate the soil better.
  - All plants receiving rain should be in a pot with drainage and without saucers to prevent the plant from drowning during a downpour.
Other Tips

Note that a good storm can tear a houseplant to pieces because its roots aren’t anchored in the ground. Always secure and protect your plants if a gentle, steady rainfall turns into an all-out thunderstorm. Be sure to also monitor your plants for signs of sunburn, such as bleached foliage or brown striping. While sunburn usually isn’t lethal, it can cause damage to your plants and stunt growth. If sunburn does occur, don’t panic! Clip off affected leaves and move your plant into the shade to bounce back. Finally, it can be beneficial to fertilize regularly especially if there has been lots of rain, which leaches nutrients out of the soil. You can apply plant food to damp soil to replenish any lost nutrients.

Conclusion

In summary, transitioning houseplants outside in the summer requires careful planning and attention to detail. Providing the right amount of shade, gradually acclimating the plants to the new environment, and keeping them well-hydrated can help them thrive and grow strong throughout the summer.

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 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
Best Plants for Pollinators
April 19, 2023 8:50 am Comments Off on Best Plants for Pollinators

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to attract more pollinators such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies to your garden? Our pollinator friends offer many benefits to your garden, such as the essential pollination of crops and flowers. Their presence also brings a garden to life with the buzz of activity. With animal pollination responsible for up to 90% of flowering plant reproduction, these agents of pollination are essential to a healthy and vibrant ecosystem in your garden.

Unfortunately, these helpful pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other insects, are facing declining populations due to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. Fortunately, as gardeners, we can save our floral friends and enhance our gardens by planting pollinator-friendly plants. We have collected a list of the best pollinator-friendly perennials, annuals, trees, and shrubs that provide the nectar and pollen essential to a healthy pollinator population. Keep reading for our recommendations!

Best Plants for Pollinators

Below is a graphic with our recommendations for the best pollinator-friendly plants (all of which are sold in our greenhouses!). We included annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs so you can pick and choose which pollinator plants best suit your garden needs.

Conclusion

Other tips to help our pollinator friends are arranging your plants in clusters, refraining from using insecticides, and ensuring your garden gets as much sun as possible. Try out planting some of these pollinator-friendly plants and watch your garden come to life!

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 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
All about Herbs
April 20, 2021 3:21 pm Comments Off on All about Herbs

Every spring, Strange’s has thousands of herbs of all different varieties come in and out of our doors. The appeal is understandable, herbs are incredibly easy plants to take care of and are a fun, eco-friendly way to provide flavor for your food! Not to mention they smell amazing.

We want to provide you with the proper tools to get started on your herb journey, and we don’t just mean shovels and dirt. Here are some tips for perfecting your delicious new garden.

Sunlight

Whether indoor or outdoor, most herbs require full sun, (6-8+ hours a day). Like all plants, though, not every herb is the same. Herbs that are grown in cooler temperatures such as cilantro, chervil, chives, dill, and parsley enjoy a little more shade to keep growing well. If you don’t have proper sunlight in your house for your indoor herbs, Strange’s has a variety of growing lamps to pick from. Generally grow lights need to be a foot away from the plants and on for 12-16 hours during the day.

Water

Water needs for the herbs depend on the type, as well as where you plant them. For outdoor plants, they can either be in a bed or in a container. Plants in the ground require less water since potted plants lose their moisture faster. Like the rest of your garden, herbs need more water during the hot summer months to stay hydrated. Rosemary, lavender, and sage are from more arid regions and like to be a little drier.

For indoor plants, it’s a good rule of thumb to water your plant when the top few inches have dried out completely. Be careful not to overwater, and wilting plants can be a sign of underwatering. Pots with proper drainage holes on the bottom are ideal, though you can cover the bottom of the pot with stones or marbles if it doesn’t have one.

Pruning

The fun thing about herbs is they LOVE to be pruned! Pinching off the top few inches often enchourages new, yummy growths to sprout. The new leaves are where all the flavor is! Just make sure you leave enough of the plant left so it can keep up. If you see a bloom start to form, cut it off! Flowers will keep your herb from making new leafy growth. If you forget about your plant and come back to see it’s already bloomed, you can pull it up or leave it for the bees.

At Strange’s

As mentioned above, we have a WIDE variety of beautiful herbs here at Strange’s! Prices start at $1.79 for a 4-pack. We get new shipments daily to keep up with how popular they are! Here’s a sampling of our selection:

Oregano, Marjoram, Sorrel, Savory, Lemon Grass, Parsley, Sweet Annie, Hyssop, Lavender, Mint, Fennel, Rosemary, Basil, Catnip, Cilantro, Chives, Sage, Bay, Lemon Balm, and Curry, Germander, Catmint, Spearmint, Chamomile, Lovage, Myrtle, Lemon Verbena, and so many more!

Finally,

All of this being said, remember that every plant is unique and different, just like every home is! Along with this advice make sure to follow the directions on the tags that come with each one. Even if you do everything exactly right there still might be issues and that’s okay! You just have to adjust the care until your plant is happy and healthy. If you’re a beginner gardner or you just can’t figure it out, feel free to stop by and ask one of our gardening experts, or shoot us a question on social media! We are always more than happy to help our happy garden friends.

Connect with us on Social Media!

We are on Instagram @StrangesRVA
Like us on Facebook!
or email us at marketing@stranges.com
Creeping Phlox Care Guide
April 14, 2021 11:48 am Comments Off on Creeping Phlox Care Guide

Creeping Phlox is a perennial ground cover plant that blooms in early spring. It’s known for being an incredibly hardy plant, being able to grow in all sorts of locations in various different conditions. As long as it has full sun to partial shade (the latter being during summertime), you can grow phlox in planters, on slopes, as borders, and as a ground cover or filler. Given the opportunity, it will cascade over walls or the sides of pots as a bright, beautiful accent. Additionally, it’s great at deterring pests (aside from eelworm and powdery mildew), and is deer resistant!

Care

Phlox is great for beginner gardeners or people who like low-maintenance plants. We recommend slow-release fertilizer in early spring before it blooms, then pruning the stems after the blooms have finished. If you’d like your plant to stay more compact, you can also cut it back in winter. Though it will grow in less-than-ideal conditions, Phlox prefers to be kept in moist, well-draining soil. Make sure to water the plant more in the summer so it doesn’t get too dry.

Varieties

Strange’s carries several different varieties of Creeping Phlox! Each in dazzling different colors, and varying slightly in shape.

Pests

As mentioned above, Phlox is generally pretty pest resistant. The biggest things to watch out for are Phlox bugs and powdery mildew.

Phlox bug infestations can be identified by speckled and curling leaves. Phlox bugs are small, orange, and purplish-black, and live underneath the leaves. These can be taken care of with a wash using plant-safe soap, making sure to get the underside of the leaves.

Powdery mildew is identified as it sounds, as a powdery gray coating on the leaves. It will usually start at the bottom and work its way up. To avoid it, the easiest method is to be careful not to overwater. The best method to combat this is to use a fungicide. We have several available at Strange’s, and we recommend Fertilome Triple Action Plus, which is great for the prevention of mites as well! A 32 fl. oz. bottle goes for $9.95 and will last you a long time.

At Strange’s

This gorgeous groundcover is available at Strange’s in 6″ pots for $5.95! All of them are blooming beautifully in the nursery, ready to go in the ground as soon as you get home.

Happy Growing!
Deer Resistant Plants For The Garden
March 17, 2020 12:19 pm Comments Off on Deer Resistant Plants For The Garden
Our Favorite Deer Resistant Plants

By: Ann Meisoll

Snack food for deer? We don’t think so!

If deer are an issue where you live, deer resistant plants are the things to use in your yard. While no plant is 100% deer resistant, there are many that will give you a fighting chance at having an attractive landscape. This is a shortlist of some of our favorites for Richmond gardens. For the full list, rated by resistance to deer damage, check out this list from Rutgers University: Landscape Plants Rated By Deer Resistance.
- Snapdragons
- Annual Vinca
- Dusty Miller
- Heliotrope
- Daffodils
- Allium
- Ajuga
- Lily of the Valley
- Pachysandra
- Liriope
- Maidens Grass
- Fountain Grass
- Perennial Ferns
- Iris
- Lavender
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Baptisia
- Monarda
- Anemone
- Bayberry
- Butterfly Bush
- Juniper
- Mahonia
There are many, many more plants that deer don’t like. Most ornamental grasses are deer resistant and have the added bonus of being both beautiful and drought-resistant. Bulbs are great for seasonal color and deer don’t like the taste of them (except for tulips—those are like candy!). Deer seem to avoid most plants that have hard, thick leaves, those with thorns and plants that have fuzzy leaves. If they get hungry enough, they will eat almost anything, including roses.

Gain additional protection against deer by using deer fencing, repellents, or mixing deer friendly plants with deer resistant ones. Deer fencing runs the gamut from plastic netting to electric fences.
Vegetables to Plant During a Wintery Spring
February 22, 2020 11:15 am Comments Off on Vegetables to Plant During a Wintery Spring
Vegetables to Plant During a Wintery Spring

Punxsutawney Phil may have predicted an early spring but it might take a little longer to warm up.

In the meantime, use the last few weeks of winter to help grow some cool weather veggies so you can enjoy garden-fresh greens all season. We know it’s tempting to start planting your juicy tomatoes and wishing for warmer weather now, but homegrown vegetables can start much earlier than the end of spring.

Cool weather vegetables prefer lower temperatures and are fairly easy plants as they are hardy to an occasional frost and with the cooler weather, there are fewer pests to damage your plants. While these plants can do well during colder temperatures we recommend keeping a cloth handy for sudden cold days and late frosts. These plants can be put into two categories of “semi-hardy” and “hardy” depending on where you live and the time of year will help you determine which vegetables are best to plant and when.

Our hardy vegetables would be your spinach, kale, collards, arugula, broccoli and brussel sprouts. These plants can withstand a hard frost, typically about 25-29 degrees F.

With Semi-hardy vegetables being cauliflower, lettuce, mustard greens, onions, and beets. These plants can all do well during a light frost of about 29-32 degrees F.

These veggies taste best in cool weather and can add a little freshness to your season. It may not feel quite like spring yet, but by getting a jump start on your garden it will make the warmer weather that much tastier.