Russian sage: Not from Russia, but perfect for NC gardens
I planted some Russian Sage (Salvia yangii) decades ago. Alas, I can’t remember when it faded into oblivion. It is really not native to Russia and hails from Central Asia, ie, Afghanistan, Tibet. The name derives from the genus of the plant which is “perovskia” and it was named for the Russian General V.A. Perovski in the 1800’s. I don’t know why, I suppose he was some sort of wise person or “sage”.… Continue Reading
Wet Nose Wednesday: Meet Pound Cake and Steward!
Hey there! I’m Pound Cake, a sweet little lady looking for my forever home. I might seem a bit shy when I first meet you, but don’t worry – once I warm up, I’m all about the cuddles and affection! I’m a friendly girl who wants nothing more than to be your constant companion. Whether…… Continue Reading
Sweet autumn clematis charms, but NC experts say avoid it
I must say that I have rarely written an article about a plant I like but I don’t recommend for WPTF Weekend Gardener listeners. Sweet Autumn Clematis(Clematis teriflira) or Japanese Clematis is an exception. Sweet Autumn Clematis is actually in the Buttercup family. It does not act like one however. It is a master at spreading and surviving once its roots are established. It is very invasive and NC State doesn’t recommend that you plant this vine. The North Carolina Invasive Plant Council feels the same way. I don’t even know where you can buy this plant now. It is purported to be poisonous too. That being said, when I see it blooming in my yard and especially along the roadside in late August into September, I know fall is on the way and I love fall and winter.… Continue Reading
Wet Nose Wednesday: Meet Blondie and Finnick!
Hey there, music lovers! I’m Blondie, a calm and melodious feline who’s ready to compose a beautiful friendship with you. Just like a gentle jazz tune, I bring a soothing rhythm to any home. I’m not just another cat – I’m a social butterfly who loves to harmonize with humans and even get along with…… Continue Reading
Red and black chokeberries thrive in North Carolina landscapes
Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) and Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) are versatile shrubs native to North Carolina. I have seen many of the red varieties, while black varieties have never shown up in my path. They are similar however, with obviously, the main difference, the color of the berries. In addition, the red has a more upright and slender shape preferring moist soil, while the black are more tolerant of various soil conditions. The berries of the black varieties usually drop in summer while the berries of the red varieties last until winter. Otherwise the two types are much alike. The flowers, of course, come in the spring and with the help of pollinators, make these small berries.… Continue Reading
Wet Nose Wednesday: Meet Buttons and Asada!
Meowdy folks! My name is Hugo and the people around here say I’m one handsome fellow. I absolutely adore head scratches and I have the prettiest purr. When I find my forever family, I promise to serenade them with my purrs everyday. I’m such a lovebug with my people, that I don’t want to share…… Continue Reading
Bottlebrush blooms, fall color make Clethra a versatile shrub
I have many different species of plants in my landscape. However, I do not own a “Clethra alnifolia” or “sweet pepper bush” or “summersweet”. I bet if I were to ask brother Rufus if he planted one in his historic yard, he would say yes. Clethra is a native plant to Eastern North America including North Carolina of course. My expert friends on the Weekend Gardener tell us that Clethra is a choice shrub for the Tar Heel state’s growing conditions.… Continue Reading
Madison Interviews Food Network Star & Pitmaster Michael Mixon
Listen in as Madison speaks with Food Network star and award-winning pitmaster Michael Mixson. They discuss backyard barbecuing tips and best practices including tools of the trade, how to ensure that meats are moist and tender, spice selection, and menu planning. Madison Interviews Food Network Star & Pitmaster M | RSS.com… Continue Reading
Wet Nose Wednesday: Meet Hugo and Enzo!
Meowdy folks! My name is Hugo and the people around here say I’m one handsome fellow. I absolutely adore head scratches and I have the prettiest purr. When I find my forever family, I promise to serenade them with my purrs everyday. I’m such a lovebug with my people, that I don’t want to share…… Continue Reading
Madison Interviews Chris Edwards, The Voice of the Carolina Mudcats
Enjoy Madison’s interview with Chris Edwards, the voice of the Carolina Mudcats. The duo discuss the Carolina Mudcats 35-year history, as well as the Mudcats’ final games at Five County Stadium during Labor Day weekend. Madison Interviews Chris Edwards, The Voice of the | RSS.com… Continue Reading