Japan has a rich cultural tradition of gardening, and the country is considered a global biodiversity hotspot. But you do not need to build an entire Japanese garden or start planning a trip to Japan to enjoy its diverse flora. Many thrive in our climate and make excellent additions to a St. Louis backyard. The…
Category: Home Gardening
Heat Up Your Landscape with Hibiscus
In the heat of the summer, hibiscus are popular ornamental plants that can add a touch of tropical flare to any landscape. The genus Hibiscus includes more than 300 species, including two that are native to Missouri. Hibiscus History These plants have a long history of cultivation, beginning in the 17th century when hibiscus from…
All About Galls
During the spring and summer, the Kemper Center for Home Gardening often get questions about galls, or growths found on trees and other plants. People want to know what they are, and what to do about them. The following information will tell you all you need to know about galls. What are galls? Galls are…
2021 Plants of Merit
Every year since 1998, the Missouri Botanical Garden has partnered with other regional horticultural institutions to select Plants of Merit. Plants of Merit are chosen for outstanding quality and dependable performance in Missouri, southern and central Illinois, and the Kansas City metro area. To qualify as a Plant of Merit, the plants must be easy…
Think Tropical
As temperatures warm outside, many home gardeners are eager to get their summer gardens started. Spring is the perfect time to plan your summer garden, and once the final frost is out of the forecast, you can get to planting your annuals. When you’re thinking about how to make your yard pop this summer, consider…
Plastic Pot Recycling: Update and Perspective
With regret, the Garden reports that the St. Louis-area Plastic Pot Recycling program remains suspended going into this spring’s growing season. We are answering many emails and calls about this program. We know that gardeners are sustainability minded! We hope this summary of issues and some options will be useful, even while our region cannot…
All About Easter Lillies
In springtime, Easter lilies are a common sight in grocery stores, churches, and on dining room tables. With their large, white, trumpet-shaped blooms and delicate fragrance, they are a true symbol of the Easter season. But did you know that spring isn’t the only time these plants can be enjoyed? If you want to keep…
The History of the Shamrock in Ireland (and How to Grow Your Own American Version)
Every March, many storefronts, restaurants, and homes turn green as Irish Americans celebrate their heritage through St. Patrick’s Day. Of course, many without Irish ancestry join in the celebration, too. During the St. Patrick’s season, the shamrock becomes a universal symbol of all things Irish. And rightfully so—the shamrock is the national plant of Ireland…
In Praise of Parsley
As the St. Louis Herb Society prepares its first-ever online herb sale, the group sings the praises of parsley, its herb of the year. “My goal is to bring parsley back as a valued and important herb in cooking. It is too easily dismissed,” says Anne Cori, Herb Society member and owner of Kitchen Conservatory….
The St. Louis Herb Society Celebrates 80 Years with First-ever Online Herb Sale
The St. Louis Herb Society marks its 80th birthday in 2021 in a way its founders could have never imagined back in early 1941—with an online sale of more than 8,000 herbs and pollinator plants. The St. Louis Herb Society Online-Only Herb Salestlouisherbsociety.orgMarch 26–April 2 | Online shopping for Garden membersApril 9–16 | Online shopping…
Protecting Plants from Fungus Gnats
As you wait for the winter to thaw so you can get back to your garden, you may be paying more attention to your houseplants. And, it’s possible, dealing with pest issues. One very common plant pest if the fungus gnat. Infestations of these small, flying insects can range in severity from just being a…
Your Amaryllis Can Bloom Again!
Amaryllis are a popular holiday plant because when potted indoors, they tend to bloom around Christmas. Plus, the red variety adds some festive color to any room. While their blooms fade after holidays, the plant’s life is far from over. In fact, if cared for properly, amaryllis can bloom over and over. All About Amaryllis…