Everything you need to do for a successful growing season

We are finally in the thick of it: Planting season! Colder weather crops have been in the ground for a few weeks, you’re likely seeing little lettuce sprouts here and there, and you have a glorious two months of planting ahead of you. Is there anything better? Well, maybe harvest season when we can reap the benefits of all of our hard work.

Don’t miss our March garden checklist if you need to play a bit of catch-up.

Indoors
You likely already have tomato and pepper seedlings growing and thriving under grow lights—stay on top of them and transition them to larger pots as needed. Even with our beautifully warm weather that we have had recently, resist the urge to move them outside. The chance of a late frost is still high.

Start okra, squash, cucumber, melon, and watermelon seeds indoors. If they are vining crops (like watermelon), plant them in individual peat pots as they don’t transplant well if the roots are disturbed.

Take this time to draw out any landscaping projects. Are you expanding your garden? Increasing your flower bed space? Jot down your notes and planned dimensions to ensure you don’t overplant.

Outdoors
This is where the fun begins! Scatter any annual flower seeds to create a beautiful flower border around your perennial flowers. If they are really small seeds—like poppies—they don’t need covering.

You can also sow quite a few seeds directly outdoors this month, such as beets, carrots, Swiss chard, kohlrabi, cabbage, lettuce, collards, turnips, radishes, spinach, bunching onions, and peas. For carrots, plant an abundance of seeds and plan to thin as they grow.

Plant any new trees or shrubs by the end of this month—aim to plant native plants when possible!

Cover cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower with row covers to protect them from pests like the cabbage both.

If you planted potatoes in March, you are likely seeing growth. Continue to mound them with fresh soil and compost as needed!

Give your compost pile a good turn or two on warm-weather days. Or, if you haven’t started a compost pile yet, start one—you’ll be cutting back on food waste and doing your soil a favor.

Everything you need to do for a great growing season ahead

Planting season has arrived! It’s warm, gentle rain is coming, and we are itching to get our hands in some dirt. March kicks off planting season and now is the time to get cold-resistant crops in the ground and start planning ahead for the rest of the season.

Don’t miss our February garden checklist if you need to play a bit of catch-up.

Indoors
The longer days and shorter nights will stimulate your houseplants and get them growing again after a more dormant winter. If you have any that need repotting, now is the time to do so. It would also be helpful to give them a good feeding with some added nutrients.

March is also the time to start some later-season transplants: tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Aim to get those seeds started by the 15th so you have plenty of growing time before they are put in the ground in May.

It would also be wise to start a garden notebook for the year. List everything that you plant in the garden, including the name of the seed company, plant name, variety, planting date, and harvest date. Keep notes throughout the growing season so you can refer back to them next season.

Outdoors
By the end of March, begin hardening off your onion, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts outside—particularly any new plants that are at least 5 weeks old. Select smaller rather than larger plants of these cold-weather crops as overly mature plants tend to bolt if exposed to low temperatures early in the season.

Now is also the time to direct sow carrots, Swiss chard, peas, collards, kale, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, onions, parsley, parsnips, beets, radishes, and spinach. You can also plant new beds of bare-root asparagus and strawberries for reliable perennials that will return year-after-year.

If you have other perennials planted from last year, remove any winter protection that you had in place by mid-March. Pull back mulch from any existing strawberry and asparagus beds so they can push through easily as they regrow. If you have grapes, raspberries, or blueberries growing, give them an added boost with a gentle, natural, nitrogen fertilizer.

Give your compost pile a good turn or two on warm-weather days. Or, if you haven’t started a compost pile yet, start one—you’ll be cutting back on food waste and doing your soil a favor.

Finally, place a birdhouse or two outside as birds will begin looking for nesting sites soon.

As we look forward to the coming growing season, you may be wondering what you can do to make your garden more productive, healthier, and better for the environment while it provides your family with delicious home-grown goodies.

Sustainability in the home garden doesn’t have to be complicated!

In fact, it can even simplify the work you do to maintain healthy gardens. It really comes down to a few simple areas of focus: water, soil, plant selection, and the wildlife around your garden. Here are a few easy things you can do to help both yourself, and the planet.

Say No to Water Wasting

This one is a no-brainer—we all realize the importance of water conservation. Thankfully, it’s easy to apply it in the garden! Ditch your oscillating sprinklers that spray water carelessly all over the place
and replace them with drip irrigation or soaker hoses to pinpoint the water right where you need it. Mulch your beds to help retain water in the soil and keep your plants hydrated, even on drier days. Place collection barrels at the bottoms of your downspouts to capitalize all that wasted rain that falls onto your roof! All these little things help to cut back on water waste. If you want to take it a step further, you can even implement rainscaping into your garden design!

Be Soil Savvy

According to earthday.org, the United States is losing soil ten times faster than it is replenished (see page 79 for ways our region is combating soil erosion). Soil is a living, breathing component of the garden. Keep the dirt healthy by using compost to replenish vital nutrients. Composting is simple, fun for the whole family, and eliminates a lot of household waste from your trash can. There is plenty of great information available online for how to create your own compost pile, and if you want in-person advice, Old City Cemetery Museums & Arboretum has a Compost Education Center managed by the Hill City Master Gardeners who would be happy to answer your questions. Allowing dead and decaying plants to remain on the soil to decompose is another great way to protect your garden dirt. 

That’s right: by NOT cleaning up your garden, you can improve the soil conditions for your plants! Not to mention, keeping material on top of the soil helps prevent erosion. So skip the raking and shoveling this fall. Instead, just allow those natural processes to take over and refuel your soil.

Use Flower Power Instead of Chemicals

 It can be hard to give up those chemical fertilizers and pesticides—especially if you don’t know how to protect and grow your plants without them! So here are a few pointers: 

• Use pest-repelling plants around your vegetable gardens to ward off those undesirables. For example, nasturtiums (one of my favorites) are beautiful in bloom, taste delicious in a salad, and happen to repel aphids, squash bugs, white flies, and other destructive insects. Plant them near your beans and cucumbers! Marigolds are pest control powerhouses in the garden and deter a number of bugs. I plant rows of them between just about everything I grow, but they are especially helpful with tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes.

• Once the pests are under control, it’s time to look at fertilizing your plants. Go natural by using organic fertilizers. There are several products available at home and garden stores everywhere. I was always told to put a fish head in my planting holes for tomato plants. As the fish decomposes, it constantly invigorates the plant roots with nutrients. Compost makes for great fertilizer and helps control pH levels in your soil. 

• If you’re looking for a fun family project, consider vermiculture, or raising worms for the beneficial castings (poo) they produce—it’s garden gold!

Help the Helpers

Finally, your garden can help sustain the native plants and animals that are vital to our ecosystem. Planting native plants around your garden and in your yard is a small thing you can do to make a big impact. They naturally require less watering and fertilization because they are biologically designed to thrive in our specific conditions. Additionally, they support the insects we need, like pollinators and beneficial insects. And about those beneficial bugs—you want to keep those guys in your vegetable garden to eat harmful pests like aphids. For example, green lacewings feast on aphids, scales, mealybugs, and other garden destroyers. Assassin bugs eat flies and mosquitos, and love squash vine borers, so they are great for your squash, cucumbers, and vining plants. 

Then there are pollinators, which we literally depend on for our food supply. Bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, etc., all help to pollinate our garden crops. Provide for them and those other helpful insects by planting natives for shelter, and by resisting the urge to rake fall leaves, clean out garden scraps where they nest and lay eggs, and mow over those early spring dandelions, which provide food. Finally, you could consider reducing the amount of manicured lawn space you maintain around your home and replacing it with something healthier for the environment— like clover!

Going green does not have to be expensive, or difficult. In some ways, it makes our lives easier! And it’s the gift that keeps on giving as future generations learn to appreciate our planet’s natural resources. So try a few of these tips in and around your vegetable patch this season, and reap the rewards of a thoughtful garden!   

Opportunities for Lynchburg Homeowners to Lead in Water Conservation Efforts

What do Lynchburg lawns have to do with waterways from Blackwater Creek to the iconic Chesapeake Bay?

How we manage our yards isn’t just for show. It affects animals from the smallest damselfly to the trophy smallmouth bass in our local waters and impacts wildlife downstream to the Chesapeake Bay. Ramifications ripple out to the benefits we receive, like clean drinking water and our opportunity to paddle, fish, and enjoy our rivers. In fact, lawns and water quality are so intertwined that nonprofit and government programs might help you cover the costs of transforming soggy, poor turfgrass into native plant gardens or bare riverbanks into forests.

Pollution from cities and farms has damaged local streams into the James River and beyond for decades. The Chesapeake Bay has nearly become a “dead waterway,” with aquatic life and fish drastically disappearing from its waters. In 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency devised a plan to reverse this course by setting goals for Virginia to reduce pollution by 2025.

This is where homeowners and their backyards come in. Picture those “dead” areas in your lawn that won’t grow turfgrass, bare dirt at new building sites, or water rushing down driveways to stormwater drains.

Bare soil from new building sites and poor lawns has become the leading cause of pollution in the James River. Sediment wreaks havoc: it smothers river bottom habitats, elevates water temperatures, and clouds water, which kills underwater plants.

The other primary water pollutants—excess nutrients, nitrogen, and phosphorus—come from agricultural fields and overly fertilized lawns. Nutrients foster problematic algae blooms that create oxygen “dead zones” that suffocate aquatic life and lead to fish kills. 

The good news is that homeowners can reduce runoff in several ways. Replacing lawns, especially those with poor cover or near streams, with lush native gardens, preserves water quality—root systems act as a shield, grabbing pollutants, sediment, and nutrients before they enter water sources.
These gardens are carefully designed to absorb excess nutrients, hold soil in place, and create critical wildlife habitat. They require no fertilizers or chemicals, further reducing nutrient pollution.

Recently, City of Lynchburg and Campbell and Amherst County homeowners became eligible for a state program, the Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP). This program helps cover costs for pollution-reduction projects, like rain gardens, conservation landscaping, and permeable pavements. 

“The projects I want to see installed are the ones that solve water issues for individuals. Whether they have erosion and soil loss on their property, standing water issues, or need to contain water for raised beds—the right project for the location and landowner are the priority,” says Blair Blanchette, VCAP Coordinator. 

Concrete exacerbates polluted runoff as water picks up other pollutants like bacteria and pesticides, then flushes straight to local creeks. Projects that slow water runoff, such as rainwater harvesting or dry wells, can keep lawns and gardens healthy and provide water during dry spells while significantly reducing polluted runoff.

The James River Association’s Buffer Program works with landowners in the James River watershed to plant forested areas along creeks or streams called buffers. Buffers stop pollution as gardens do while building cooler, clearer, more stable streams, providing habitat for sensitive species like herons and brook trout.

“Everyone can have an impact. Trees are part of the answer, and anyone, especially those with open streamside land, can grow trees to help clean our water,” says Anne Marie Roberts, Senior Restoration Field Manager for the James River Association.

Through a technical modeling program, Roberts can see precisely how much a buffer reduces pollutants like sediment and excess nutrients. Through such programs as these and continued community investment, the James River can return to total health. Luckily for many of us,
it may start with a lush forest or a beautiful garden.

WHERE TO BEGIN

Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP)

Government program managed by Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) aims to help residential homeowners reduce urban stormwater runoff.

Who: Homeowners, businesses, schools, places of worship, and community centers in Lynchburg, Amherst, and Campbell counties (R. E. Lee District) or Bedford County (Peaks of Otter District)

What: Design, prepare, and install “best management practices,” including conservation landscaping, impermeable surface removal, permeable pavement, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and more. Up to 80% of project cost reimbursed. 

Get Started: Visit Releeconservation.com or Poswcd.org 

The James River Buffer Program (JRBP)

The James River Association and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation provide technical and financial support for landowners to create forest buffers along stream banks.

Who: Landowners in the James River watershed with a creek, stream, or river frontage 

What: Design, prepare, install, and provide three years of maintenance support to restore forested buffers. 100% project cost provided.

Results: Since its launch in 2019 and with support from Department of Forestry, 1,084 acres of buffers installed across the James River watershed, including 358,331 native trees.

Get Started: Visit jamesriverbuffers.org 

Conservation Easements

The Central Virginia Land Conservancy works with landowners to save the farms, forests, waterways, and rural landscapes that make Virginia beautiful. Land conservation easements save land through voluntary, permanent agreements that outline how land can be used. 

Who: Landowners in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Buckingham, Campbell, and Nelson counties and Lynchburg

What: Permanent agreements to protect land from intense development. Tax credits and deductions based on the reduced land value.

Results: 5,900 acres protected 

Get Started: Visit www.cvalc.org

As February unfolds in Virginia, the winter chill begins to loosen its grip, signaling the arrival of spring on the horizon. Gardening enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to bring life and color back to their outdoor spaces. While many might think of spring as the prime season for planting flowers, there are several cold-weather blooms that thrive in the cool temperatures of February in our 7A planting zone.

Poppies: Cue visions of a bright red field of poppies a la Wizard of Oz. Poppies are incredibly delicate flowers when faced with warmer temperatures but the chill of early spring is prime time to pop (pun intended) these beauties in the ground. Begin germinating poppy seeds indoors during February and plan to plant seedlings in the ground by mid to late March, when there is still a chance of a light frost.

Planting and growing poppies in a home garden can be a delightful and rewarding experience, adding a burst of vibrant colors and unique charm to the landscape. Poppies belong to the Papaveraceae family and are known for their delicate, papery petals in shades of red, pink, orange, and white. While some varieties are annuals, others are perennials, providing a range of options for gardeners.

To start growing poppies, select a well-drained location with full sunlight, as these flowers thrive in sunny conditions. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensuring it is slightly alkaline. Poppies are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they appreciate soil that is not too rich.

Seeds are the primary method of propagation for poppies. Sow the seeds directly into the garden bed in early spring or fall, pressing them lightly into the soil. It’s essential to keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two weeks. Once the seedlings have established themselves, thin them to ensure proper spacing and optimal growth.

Poppies don’t require excessive watering, and overwatering can lead to root rot. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. As the plants grow, their unique and intricate flowers will unfold, creating a captivating display in your garden.

While poppies are generally resistant to pests and diseases, it’s essential to keep an eye out for aphids and snails, which may occasionally pose a threat. In terms of maintenance, deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming and prevents self-seeding, especially for annual varieties.

Whether you choose the iconic red Flanders poppy or the charming Shirley poppy, these flowers bring an air of elegance to any garden. Consider planting poppies alongside other compatible species to create a visually appealing and diverse landscape that will enchant both you and any visitors to your home garden.

Pansies: Pansies are a perfect choice for February planting in Virginia. Pansies (Viola tricolor hortensis) are known for their cheerful, heart-shaped flowers and versatility in various climates, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.

To start, choose a location in your garden that receives partial to full sunlight, as pansies thrive in these conditions. Prepare the soil by mixing in organic matter, such as compost, to enhance drainage and fertility. Pansies prefer well-draining soil, so ensure it is loose and crumbly.

When it comes to planting, space the pansies about 6 to 8 inches apart, giving them room to spread and flourish. Dig a hole that accommodates the size of the root ball and gently place the pansy into the soil. Pat the soil around the plant to secure it in place and water thoroughly.

Pansies are known for their ability to withstand cooler temperatures, making them an excellent choice for early spring or late fall planting. Ensure consistent moisture but avoid overwatering, as pansies are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

One of the joys of planting pansies is the wide array of colors they offer, from soft pastels to bold and vibrant hues. Experiment with different color combinations to create a visually appealing and harmonious display in your garden.

Regular deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, encourages continuous blooming throughout the season. Pansies are relatively low-maintenance, but occasional fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can promote healthy growth.

Primroses: Primroses (Primula) come in a variety of species and colors, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues. Before planting, choose a location that receives partial to full shade, as primroses thrive in cool and moist environments. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter, amending it with compost if needed. Primroses prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.

Late winter or early spring is the ideal time to plant primroses, either from seeds or as established plants. When planting, space them about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the specific variety. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish themselves. Regular watering is crucial, as primroses prefer consistently moist soil. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Primroses respond well to fertilization, especially in early spring when they are actively growing. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production.

One of the advantages of growing primroses is their adaptability to different containers, making them suitable for both gardens and patio spaces. Container gardening allows for better control over soil conditions and placement. Ensure the containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.

Hellebores: Hellebores, commonly referred to as Lenten Roses, stand out as enchanting perennials that infuse sophistication into any home garden. Renowned for their early blossoms, these resilient plants often grace the garden with vibrant colors in late winter or early spring, a time when many other plants remain dormant. 

To cultivate a flourishing hellebore garden, it is essential to choose an appropriate location characterized by well-drained soil and partial to full shade. These plants thrive in shaded environments, making them perfect for areas beneath trees or alongside buildings. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage. 

Planting is best done in the fall or early spring, ensuring the crown is at or slightly above the soil surface. Adequate spacing of 18 to 24 inches between plants facilitates proper air circulation. Hellebores appreciate consistent moisture during the growing season, though they can tolerate periods of drought. 

Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base helps in moisture retention, weed suppression, and temperature regulation. While these perennials are generally low-maintenance, removing old leaves in late winter or early spring enhances the display of emerging flowers and helps prevent diseases. 

Light fertilization in early spring supports their growth, and division of established clumps in spring or late summer allows for garden expansion. By adhering to these guidelines, cultivating a stunning hellebore garden becomes a rewarding endeavor, with the promise of enduring beauty and early-season blooms year after year.

Snowdrops: Snowdrops (Galanthus) are delicate and enchanting spring-blooming bulbs that bring a sense of renewal and hope to home gardens. Known for their dainty, nodding white flowers, these resilient plants often emerge through the last vestiges of winter’s snow, signaling the arrival of warmer days. Growing snowdrops in your home garden can be a rewarding experience, adding a touch of elegance and beauty to the early spring landscape.

When cultivating snowdrops, it’s essential to choose a suitable location. These bulbs thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Plant them in an area that receives partial to full shade, as snowdrops naturally thrive in the dappled sunlight beneath deciduous trees. Early spring is the ideal time for planting, allowing the bulbs to establish themselves before the growing season kicks into full gear.

Snowdrops are relatively low-maintenance, but they do benefit from regular watering during their growing period. While they prefer moist soil, it’s crucial to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to bulb rot. Once established, snowdrops are known to naturalize, gradually spreading and creating charming drifts of delicate blooms.

As these bulbs are hardy, they can withstand colder temperatures, making them an excellent choice for regions with variable spring weather. Mulching around the snowdrops can help regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, contributing to their overall health.

One of the remarkable features of snowdrops is their ability to thrive in challenging conditions. They are resistant to deer and rodents, making them a reliable choice for gardens where these animals may be a concern. Snowdrops also make lovely companions for other early spring flowers, such as crocuses and daffodils, creating a tapestry of colors and textures.

Your February Garden Checklist
Everything you need to do for a great growing season ahead

Have you felt it? The subtle shift in the season? We’ve had a few warm days (granted, unseasonably so) and it has us itching to get outside and put our hands in some dirt. While the bulk of planting season is still a month or two away, there is a ton that can be accomplished this month to set yourself up for a successful growing season.

Don’t miss January’s garden checklist if you need to play a bit of catch-up.

Indoors
There’s nothing worse than pulling out all of your garden supplies, ready to plant your summer garden, and the handle on your spade breaks off (trust us…we’ve been there). February is the ideal time to take stock of your tools and give them a little TLC. Sharpen your blades, replace any tools that are a bit too worse for wear, and mend the holes in your gardening gloves. February is also a great time to take your lawnmower and other mechanized tools in for service—doing so early will help you avoid the inevitable spring rush when everyone realizes their grass is starting to grow again!

February is also a great month to start seeds indoors ahead of the spring and summer growing season. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, head lettuce, onions, and parsley can all be started indoors at this time. If you plan to plant any perennial flower varieties, they can be started at this time as well. 

Planning
If you’re following along with us, last month you did a ton of prep work to plan for a successful and productive garden this year. You will have figured out your garden layout, crop rotation strategy, and you will have requested seed catalogs from suppliers who prioritize heirloom and non-GMO seeds. Now comes the fun part—ordering the seeds!

There is nothing more fun or hopeful than receiving a shipment of seeds. It’s your moment to dream about your future garden and all of its potential.

If you have the space, consider growing an extra row of food to give to share with neighbors or with those in need.

Outdoors
Outdoor work really begins this month, so pile on the layers and start a fire in your firepit (keep an eye on our current burn ordinances) to keep warm.

First thing’s first, mow any cover crops you had planted last fall and turn them under the soil.

Peas, seed potatoes, and parsley can be planted toward the end of the month, directly sown into the garden. Nigella, Poppy, and Larkspur seeds can also be directly sown outdoors at this time—this will allow them a few weeks of cold temperatures which is helpful in their germination process.

Harden off any brassica (cabbage, broccoli, arugula, kale, cauliflower, collards, turnips, and so on) in a cold frame. Toward the end of the month, you can plant them in your garden bed under cloches or a low tunnel.

Spread compost over the beds that you will plant next month. Or, if you haven’t started a compost pile yet, start one—you’ll be cutting back on food waste and doing your soil a favor.

Why Prioritizing Native Plant Habitats is So Important

By Lindsey Cline

It’s early morning; heavy dew casts a silver shine on the grass as the soft sun’s rays emerge over the woodland tree line. A group of Carolina chickadees flit up and down honey locust trees. They flicker from the trees to the birdfeeders, regularly startled by squirrels and bossy blue jays. On other days, white-throated sparrows sing all afternoon, a fox slips along the garden edge, and rabbits nest under a ninebark shrub.

The yard in this scene is not unique; a standard suburban 100’-by-50’ with a small patio. What brings wildlife to the backdoor are native plant garden beds 12 feet deep and running the length of space. 

Here, among the songbirds, it’s easy to forget the threat that development poses to wildlife, but nature is in trouble: the native bee population declined by 90 percent in the past decade and more than half of bird populations are dwindling. While the majestic Monarch butterfly’s endangerment demands headlines, others, like the sturgeon, which were once so numerous that European settlers could “walk across the James River on their backs,” and the little brown bat, which hibernates in Blue Ridge Mountain caves, face extinction. 

Gone is the assumption that “protected” spaces can save the wildlife we have left…much of Virginia’s 16 percent of land protected from development lacks prime habitat as it remains open for logging and agriculture. What if we welcomed insects, songbirds, amphibians, and reptiles into our developed lands?

The revolution is here, fueled by well-gloved gardeners and well-aware homeowners creating wildlife habitats in their backyards, community parks, and locally owned fields. 

Apex predators require vast wild tracts to roam, but many species—especially the foundation of the food web—can thrive in neighborhood yards. And the backyards we have!

More than half of Virginia’s land is urban, suburban, or metro-adjacent. Virginians managed 1.7 million acres of turfgrass lawn in 2004 (last year of available data); we can estimate at least 2 million acres today. Imagine some of these lawns, which offer no ecological value, as gardens that restore essential bonds between flora and fauna.

The key to creating those habitats? 

Native plants.

Native plants excel at supporting wildlife: acorns for squirrels, fruit and berries for bears and foxes, cover for rabbits and fawns, and nesting trees for birds and owls. Native plants allow wildlife to breed, feed, and live. 

One can’t explain the importance of natives without diving into the world of insects. Insects, the foundation of a rich food web, nourish birds, fish, frogs, toads, salamanders, and bats. They are indispensable to ecosystems: insects decompose organisms, recycle nutrients, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds. Insects have spun a web of mutually beneficial relationships within ecosystems, particularly with native plants.

Insects adapted over time to exploit plant qualities during each stage of their lifecycle: hiding places for eggs, foliage for young caterpillars to eat, and nectar and pollen for adults. This dance is intricate—insects must time their lifecycles to correspond with their hosts. This process led the majority of insects to evolve so deliberately that they rely on a handful of plant lineages. Because of this specificity, insects can’t quickly adapt to non-natives. 

Entomologist Doug Tallamy proved that insect populations decline without native plants. Famed biologist E.O. Wilson explained that if insects vanished, flowering plants would follow, then reptiles, amphibians, birds, and finally mammals.

The remaining debate, with experts on both sides, is the ease of establishing native gardens. Some claim that natives require less care and maintenance; others argue that unstoppable deer herds and infuriating groundhogs prefer them. 

Implementing this new garden ethic falls in all directions—obstacles aren’t more significant than “traditional” gardens; they’re simply different. We must become the first-time hosta-obsessed gardeners we once were—learning new plant communities. While culture now denounces pesticides and praises pollinator gardens, the lack of practical advice and hands-on resources, not to mention the dearth of native plants themselves, can leave us overwhelmed with the task of implementing our new-found inspiration, especially if our marching orders include the astounding “saving nature.”

But gardeners are an optimistic bunch. As Yiyun Li writes, “One garden with the same unblinded hope and the same willingness to concede as one lives, always ready to say:
If not now, later; if not this year, next year.”

It’s possible to delight in the wildlife that garden sanctuaries support. More than once, my toddler watched with wonder as a box turtle marched from one garden bed to another. Despite my garden failures, Carolina wrens still nest in the wild grape vines and painted lady butterflies cover white snakeroot drifts. Whether our endeavors can reverse the tide remains to be seen, but the evidence makes a strong case that it’s worth our efforts.

We’re now challenging presumptions that to garden, we must hail overtly blooming peonies and roses. Instead, we might try delicate shooting stars in spring, striking purple baptisia for summer blooms, or pair rich violet asters with deep golds of goldenrods in fall. 

Nature deserves to exist on its own merits, but we can keep high expectations around our homes and relish in our desire for beauty. While re-creating indigenous plant communities offers maximum habitat, native plants anywhere contribute to the effort and can work for tidy front entrances, side yards, or around entertaining areas. 

Try them—you may (or may not) become a morning birdwatcher, but you will open the door to a stunning garden and a movement of new and vital wildlife refuges.  

Meet the Farmers Growing Christmas Trees

Everyone has their own traditions when it comes to the Christmas season. But there is perhaps no tradition more classic than going to a local farm to get your very own tree chopped to prop up in the living room, for all to see, and smell. While many may opt for a fake, pre-decorated tree from a hardware store, you just can’t capture the same old-fashioned charm that a Christmas tree farm can give.

Fortunately, if you decide to keep the tradition alive and choose your own farm-grown tree, Central Virginia is home to several plots of land dedicated to the Christmas custom.

Bedford Evergreen  Christmas Tree Farm 

1893 Robertson ROAd, Bedford, VA 24523

For Dan Young, growing and cutting Christmas trees is not only a tradition, it’s a legacy.

“I grew up in Prince Edward County, on a Christmas tree farm, near Farmville,” Young said. “So, I kinda grew up doing it.”

Dan bought a farm of his own in Bedford County about 16 years ago and started to grow trees of his own. Due to his long history in the field, Dan says he knows exactly how a tree should be cut and shaped, and that the quality shape of his trees is a trademark of his farm.

“We got it down to a pretty good art form,” he said.

 Bedford Evergreen also offers hayrides and will offer to cut and load your tree for you.

“For me, I grew up always getting a tree,” Young remembered. “The feelings that engenders are fairly powerful. Because it just becomes part of a tradition. In a way, by continuing to do this, I’m continuing a tradition that I grew up with.”

According to Young, shoppers should be sure to get their trees as early as possible. He says there is a shortage in Virginia, due, in part, to older growers retiring without new growers to take their places.

Season:
Begins Black Friday and will open the following two weekends.

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Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm

1401 Dancing Hill Road, Bedford, VA 24523

With a claim to having the longest run Christmas Tree farm in the area, Richard Miles started Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm in 1980, as a way to pay for his children’s college education.

Although the farm does not produce as many trees as it used to, Dancing Hill specializes in larger trees, mostly for commercial use, such as for businesses or church events.

“We’ve scaled way back from what we started,” Miles said.
“We used to be open for a month. We’re only open one weekend now and we sell everything we’ve got in one weekend.”

Miles says that running the farm for so long has produced some rewarding results.

“We’ve been at it for so long, we’re selling to people who came up as kids who are now adults with their own kids,”
he said.

Dancing Hills was the best option for Miles and his family after his retirement from the Department of Forestry. He figured his expertise was expansive enough to provide a great service to others.

Miles says that shoppers should get their tree early, and to call before coming to ensure they haven’t already sold out.

Season: 
Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last

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Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm

1175 Yew Tree Lane, Coleman Falls, VA 24536

Jon Perdew is the third owner of Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm and has operated it for 18 years.

According to Perdew, the scenic mountain locale, the fresh hot chocolate, and the old-fashioned fun of tire swings make Green Needles a unique, and warm experience for tree shoppers.

Perdew admits there wasn’t a special reason he got into the Christmas tree business, he only wanted the land and had the prior experience of running apple and peach orchards.

Green Needles also makes and sells wreaths and even has food trucks for its guests. Much like his peers, Perdew advises that shoppers snag their trees as early as possible.

Season: 
Begins the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continues while supplies last.

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Joyful Tree Farm

16145 Forest Road, Forest, VA 24551

Although the Joyful Tree Farm began operation in 2019, the business has already found success. Mary Gribbin, a professor of the PA Medicine program at the University of Lynchburg, and mother of seven, owns and operates the business with her husband Bill.

According to Mary, Joyful Tree started as just a fundraiser for the PA program, where the students would provide and package trees for customers while enjoying coffee and ice cream from Rookie’s.

“We were looking to uphold that tradition of people getting together and being able to enjoy Christmas during Covid, and it kinda just blossomed from there,” she said.

Joyful Tree only works with Fraser fir trees, which Mary says do well in the local climate. While they do provide trees up to 10 feet, Mary says Joyful Tree also sells smaller, three- to four-foot trees.
Mary even teaches a wreath-making class.

Unsurprisingly, Mary suggests buying early.

 “So far, every year we’ve sold out,” she said. “I already have orders for more than 200 trees.” 

Season: 
Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last.

These farmers are doing their part to make Christmas and the rest of the holiday season an unforgettable experience for families in Central Virginia. Be sure to grab some hot chocolate and support your local farmers this Christmas season.   

A Guide to Propagating Houseplants

Houseplants bring a touch of nature indoors, adding vibrancy and life to any living space. One of the most rewarding aspects of plant ownership is propagating new plants from existing ones. Propagation is not only a cost-effective way to expand your collection, but it also allows you to share the beauty of your plants with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your green journey, learning how to propagate houseplants can be a fascinating and fulfilling endeavor.

Understanding Plant Propagation
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. It involves taking a part of the parent plant, such as a leaf, stem, or cutting, and encouraging it to develop roots and eventually grow into a new, independent plant. Houseplants can be propagated through various methods, including stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, division, offsets, and even air layering.

Selecting the Right Parent Plant
Before you begin the propagation process, it’s essential to choose a healthy and mature parent plant. Look for plants with vibrant foliage, sturdy stems, and no signs of disease or pests. Healthy parent plants increase the chances of successful propagation and produce strong, thriving offspring.

Materials You’ll Need
Gathering the necessary materials before you start propagation can make the process smoother. Some common materials include:

1. Sharp Scissors or Pruning Shears: These tools are essential for taking clean and precise cuttings.

2. Rooting Hormone (Optional): A rooting hormone can encourage faster root development in cuttings.

3. Pots or Containers: Small pots or containers filled
with a well-draining potting mix or water will be needed for
planting the cuttings.

4. Water Mister: A water mister helps maintain humidity levels for the cuttings, promoting successful root growth.

5. Transparent Plastic Bags or Domes: These create a
mini-greenhouse environment that keeps humidity high
around the cuttings.

Common Propagation Methods
1. Stem Cuttings: This is one of the most popular propagation methods. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant, usually a few inches long with a few nodes (areas where leaves attach). Make a clean cut just below a node and remove any lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in a pot with moist potting mix. Place a plastic bag or dome over the cutting to maintain humidity. Alternatively, cuttings can be placed in water with a few drops of liquid fertilizer and after a few weeks roots will begin to form from the nodes. Replace the water once a week or when the water becomes cloudy. Once the roots reach at least 3” the cuttings can be planted in soil.

2. Leaf Cuttings: Some plants, like succulents, can be propagated from individual leaves. Gently twist or cut a healthy leaf from the parent plant and let it callous over for a day or two. Plant the calloused end in a potting mix, keeping the leaf slightly above the soil surface. Over time, a new plantlet will sprout from the base of the leaf.

3. Division: This method is suitable for plants with multiple stems or clusters. Carefully remove the parent plant from its pot and separate the roots and stems into individual sections. Each section should have its own set of roots and stems. Replant these sections in separate pots.

4. Offsets: Some plants naturally produce offsets or “pups” that can be separated and grown into new plants. Gently remove the offset from the parent plant and plant it in its own pot with well-draining soil.

5. Air Layering: This method is used for larger plants with woody stems. It involves creating a small wound on a healthy stem, applying rooting hormone, and wrapping the wounded area with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place. Over time, roots will develop within the moss. Once the roots are well-formed, cut the stem below the rooted area and plant it in a pot.

Nurturing the New Plants
After planting the cuttings or divisions, it’s crucial to provide the right care for their successful growth. Place the pots in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch delicate new growth. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mist the cuttings or use the plastic bag/dome to maintain high humidity, which aids in root development.

Patience and Persistence
Propagation is an art that requires patience. Not all cuttings will succeed, and it’s important not to get discouraged by failures. Some plants may take several weeks or even months to establish roots and start growing. Keep a watchful eye on the new plants, and as they grow stronger, gradually acclimate them to normal indoor conditions.

Propagating houseplants is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level. It’s a journey of discovery, nurturing, and growth. As you explore different propagation methods and learn about the unique needs of each plant species, you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the intricate beauty of nature. With the right techniques, materials, and a sprinkle of patience, you can successfully propagate houseplants and contribute to the lush greenery that transforms your living space into a thriving indoor oasis.  

Fall Gardening and Prep for a Successful Spring and Summer Season

Aaahhh, autumn in Virginia.

Before you pull your mittens over those green thumbs, there are a few things you can do to get ahead of the game and be in top shape for the arrival of spring. 

First of all, the growing season doesn’t have to come to a screeching halt. In fact, I LOVE winter vegetable gardening. So many cool weather crops grow well here in our region, and with fewer weeds and less humidity, it makes for a more pleasant gardening experience.

Now is a great time to get your fall/winter brassicas established. To give your cool season garden a head start, you can often find already-established plants at local garden centers and skip the process of starting from seed. Broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, and others grow very well in the fall, and even in frost and snow!

In fact, they sweeten with the colder temperatures. Other options like carrots, parsnips, and even tender greens can grow through the fall and winter, especially with the help of a hoop house or cold frame. In fact, sweet and snow peas will grow through the fall as long as you protect them from frost. Many of these veggies are quick to mature, so plant in succession as long as the weather allows. 

There are lots of simple, cheap options for plant protection on bitterly cold days. A quick Google search on DIY hoop houses, cold frames and mini green houses will turn up plenty of results, and you may have the necessary tools and materials just lying in your garden shed! 

As for your non-edible landscape, a little attention now will serve you well when warm weather returns. September is a great time to plant trees and shrubs. Gentle pruning is also recommended this time of year. Take some time to remove the dead and brittle branches, and shape up your canopies and bushes. For the rose gardeners, now is a good time to give your roses their last feeding of fertilizer and allow them to harden off. You can, of course, continue deadheading and think about collecting those rose hips (if your shrubs produce them) for later use in herbal teas, hand-made soaps, and other fun crafts.

A favorite fall gardening activity for many people is, of course, planting bulbs. There are so many options for fall planting that will provide bright bursts of color in the earliest days of spring. A few regional favorites include daffodils, tulips, alliums, lilies, hyacinth, and crocus. Bulbs are great fun for those who enjoy landscape design. Consider using different colors and flower heights to create interesting patterns. It will be exciting to see your hard work popping up after along winter.

These are just a few things you can do to clean up your landscape and dive into the fall gardening season. It’s also a good time to pull any unwanted weed invaders, separate crowded perennials, and give your lawn a little love by testing and adjusting your pH levels (between 6.2 and 6.5 is desirable), dethatching, and aerating.

We wish you happy gardening and a lovely fall season!