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"The Everlasting Bloom Expert"

Jun 29, 2009, Alliums - Ornamental Onions

Attractive alliums for flower gardens - design ideas, cultivars to look for, how to use as cut flower, where to buy

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Jun 18, 2009, Questions about peony seed pods

I've had several questions recently along the lines of: "After my peony is done blooming and I cut off the dead buds, can I plant them?" The "buds" that some peonies form after blooming are actually seed pods. And yes, after the seeds inside the pods are ripe, you can plant them, but growing peonies from seed is rather involved. Find out more:

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Jun 12, 2009, Bearded irises and color changes

I've had several readers send in questions about irises changing color. I consulted some iris experts and growers, and they say it's probably not an actual color change, but that another variety took over the space. The reason for this might be iris borers or root rot killing off an individual plant, which opens a spot for a seedling or rhizome of another variety to grow. For more information on dealing with iris borers, click below:

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Apr 27, 2009, Bulb care - letting the leaves die down

Here's what to do for bulb care after your spring bulb flowers have finished blooming. Hint: just let the leaves be.

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Apr 22, 2009, Can you propagate Russian sage by division?

Question: Can I split a Russian sage plant and make two plants?

Yvonne answers: Russian sage is a woody perennial which can be killed by division. It's best to propagate this plant by cuttings. To make a cutting, take a 3-inch long shoot, including stem and leaves, dip in rooting hormone, place in sand in a four-inch pot, and cover pot with plastic baggie to maintain humidity. The roots should appear in two to three weeks.

More information on growing Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is here:

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Apr 19, 2009, Success with rhododendrons and azaleas

Rhododendron and azalea shrubs are lovely for their spring flowers, but they are particular about growing conditions. Learn more:

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Apr 15, 2009, Beautiful lilies for your flower garden

Lilies are elegant and easy to grow, and make great cut flowers.

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Apr 7, 2009, Ferns: shade garden favorites

Ferns are easy-care perennials that are perfect for shade and woodland gardens. Find out what makes them unique and how to grow them. Also recommended types:

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Apr 4, 2009, New: Gardening Store

I'm excited about my new gardening and outdoor living store. Recommended garden books, tools and outdoor products are featured here through Amazon.com.

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