The Best Plants for 30 Tough Sites

Photo from: http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg8464.html

 Every once in a while, I come across a book that is a true resource and "keeper".  The University of Minnesota (Edited by Mary Meyer, Deb Brown and Mike Zins, Extension Horticulturists, University of Minnesota) have drafted a fantastic book called The Best Plants for 30 Tough Sites; outlining several plants for tough situations in the garden.

I have not seen this book first hand, apart from the access available on the web.(Chapters are available in PDF format here). I plan to order one straight away.

As stated on their site, these are some of the topics listed:

Inside you will find…

• What can I plant under a black walnut?
• What will grow in alkaline soil?
• What is a good small tree for a boulevard?
• What tree is good for my compacted soil?
• What will grow in dry shade, under trees?

Just thought I would pass along its comprehensive content and give them a shout out - "well done!" Thanks University of Minnesota and the Master Gardeners!

Inspiring Horticultural TV Programing

Rainy days and cold weather don't make me sad when I get to watch informative horticultural programing.

Unfortunately, I find a lot of North American garden shows have all taken the Reality TV direction, and I have little interest in seeing a garden transformed in one weekend. Unrealistic gardening is more like it.

My favs are mostly from the UK. (The BBC has fantastic programs.)

• How To Be A Gardener (Alan Titchmarsh) - BBC (ITV)
• Glebe Cottage with Carol Klein - BBC
• The Victorian Flower Garden - BBC
• The Victorian Kitchen Garden - BBC
• The Edible Garden (Alys Fowler) - BBC
• Gardeners World - BBC
• River Cottage Series (Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall) 

Here are a few others not produced in the UK:

• Gardening Australia
• The Victory Garden - PBS
• The Canadian Gardener (David Tarrant) - CBC

Yes, some are old, but the info is still relevant!

I've truly enjoyed Alan Titchmarsh's presentations - his humour and knowledge always inspire me.

Many are posted on YouTube:

 

Any programs you like that I haven't mentioned?

Square Foot Gardening

If you are planning to grow your vegetables in raised beds, try this method: Square Foot Gardening.

I remember watching the PBS program, "Square Foot Gardening" when I was a kid. Learning heaps then.  Now, Mel Bartholomew has revised his book from the 80s, concentrating on companion planting, diversifying plant species, improving soil mixes for minimal watering and avoiding chemical usage (for pest or fertilizers).

Great idea for small spaces, for implementing a no-dig method, it minimizes weeding, and is easier on the back.