Growing Hydrangeas
My hydrangeas don’t / won’t bloom is a lament uttered by many gardeners who are new to growing the much loved-old-fashioned plant. Getting your plant to bloom is really all about proper Pruning, Winter weather conditions, and Light. Continue reading
Siting a Garden Shed, Gazebo or Pergola on your Property
I think the siting of a primary garden ornament, like a shed, pergola or gazebo starts from inside your house. Continue reading
An Outdoor Party Idea for serving your guests Drinks
When it comes to somethings I’m all for repurposing, especially if I need to use somethings on rare occasion. In this case I’m repurposing a plastic deck planter and plant stand, turning them into an outdoor party drink station. Continue reading
Two tables Perfect for a Small Space
Last year I found a 30×30 inch square cafe/bistro-patio table at a mid Summer sale at Lowe’s, so I bought it. At the end of the season, they were getting rid of leftover Summer lawn furniture at rock-bottom/drastically reduced prices; I bought a second table and four matching stackable chairs. I’m soo glad I did. Continue reading
Castor Beans Plant (Ricinus Communis).. Beautiful, but Poisonous
One of my favorite annuals that I grow from seed each year, for its large showy 2 to 3 foot greenish-red leaves is the Castor Bean Plant. The castor bean, along with the Elephant Ear and Canna adds a tropical vibe to my upstate New York, USA, zone 5-4 garden. Continue reading
Planting bushes by the foundation of your house
Planting bushes along the front, sides and even back of your house helps to visually tie the house to the land that surrounds it. The foundation plantings, have a way of softening the transition from the rolling lawn, to the house that is jutting out of it. This post is about a few things that you should think about when siting foundation plants by your house. Continue reading
Planting the Right sized tree in the Right spot on your property
When getting ready to purchase a tree(s) to plant on your front lawn, or other parts of your property, the tree’s height, when mature should be taken into consideration. The right sized tree can set off your house and landscape, while the wrong one can dwarf your house and even you. Continue reading
Planting, maintaining and Winter storing Elephant Ear Mammoth
If you are looking to add a plant with a tropical vibe to your northern garden, the Elephant Ear Mammoth is the one for you. It loves the sun, and once emerged from the ground is a relatively fast growing plant, easily reaching 48 to 60 inches tall. The elephant ear plant has wonderful large elongated heart-shaped leaves that can catch the eye, become a topic of conversation, and are a focal point in any garden. Continue reading
Different sized Patterns on Wallpaper, Fabric and Carpeting are tied together by Color
This post it the third in a series of three articles covering the topic Using Pattern in Interior Decorating.
Mixing and matching patterns, as well as working with color are two important factors that you will probably be addressing when interior decorating a room. The number one thing you must understand about pattern mixing is that It’s All about Descending Order.
When working with pattern, or color in a room, you want to have Continue reading
Step by step instructions on how to plant your first sun or shade garden starting from scratch
Starting a flower garden, especially your first one can be a wonderful experience. There is something rewarding about being outside, working the soil, picking out plants, and seeing your labor of love turn into something quite beautiful. This post is all about starting your first garden and earning your green thumb. Continue reading
Fred Gonsowski Garden Home 