Care Instructions

Switch & Fountain Grass

Grass-like plants and ornamental grasses are great for many environments. They help fill out gardens or landscaping, are relatively easy to care for, and come in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures.

HEIGHT/SPREAD

Switch grass can vary in height. The tallest ones can reach up to 15 feet tall!

PROBLEMS YOU MAY FACE

Rust can be an issue with grasses but most plants recover after being cut back. Disease can occur when a plant does not receive enough light, has low air circulation, is excessively fertilized, or if the plant is in improper growing conditions.

SPECIES

There are many different types of ornamental grasses and grass-like plants to choose from. They range in size, color, texture, and more. Keep in mind that there are invasive ornamental grasses such as maiden grass and pampas grass. While these may be beautiful, they reseed freely and spread very quickly, so we recommend avoiding these varieties.

TIPS FOR GROWING

• Most ornamental grasses are perennials and live for 2 years or more, depending on the climate.
• It is important to spread the grass out when planting to ensure clumping does not happen.
• Some grasses may produce beautiful blooms.
• Well-draining soil and full sun are important for these plants to thrive.
  • Many grasses and grass-like plants will grow in full to partial shade.
• Some do better in specific climates. Make sure to research before buying to ensure the grass is right for your climate.
• If you are planting grass in a pot, make sure to keep an eye out for pot-bound roots.
  • If this occurs, you will need to carefully re-pot the plant.
• Be sure to water the plants thoroughly after planting and water regularly the following weeks.
  • Mature grasses are drought tolerant but newly planted ones need well-established root systems to develop before they become drought tolerant. Be sure to water the plant when the soil is dry but do not overwater. Drip irrigation is a great way to water grass plants.
• Most ornamental grasses do not require fertilizer.
• In late winter or early spring, make sure to cut the grass back.
  • Cut the stems down to a few inches above ground level.
• We recommend dividing grass plants every 3 to 4 years to avoid overcrowding. These plants can become too thin or die if they are not divided.

Salvia

Height/Spread

Tips for Growing

• Most salvia plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil.
  • Some species can bloom in partial shade.
• Excessive watering and fertilizing can increase fungal diseases.
• The best time to plant is early spring, following the last frost.
• We recommend amending the soil prior to planting.
  • You can also apply slow-release fertilizer.
• Remove any faded bloom spikes to encourage new growth.
• When the plant goes dormant, leave the stem intact.
• We recommend sowing the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside.
  • Germination occurs in 12-15 days.

Problems you may Face

Species

Phlox

Phlox comes in several hundred varieties. They are native to the United States, primarily in the Southeast and are used as a beautiful ground cover. They are highly attractive to butterflies and come in perennial and annual varieties. Phlox flower from spring to fall.

Height/Spread

Height varies between species of Phlox. Moss phlox can grow from 3-6 inches tall, while garden phlox can grow to 5 feet or taller. Growth habits depend on the species and the environment they are in.

Tips for Growing

• Phlox generally grows at a quick rate, with the right growing conditions.
  • Phlox that bloom in the spring tend to bloom for a period of 2-3 weeks, while summer flowering phlox bloom over several months.
• It is important to regularly remove spent or dying flowers.
• Care varies by species so be sure to research before purchasing.
• Because they grow quickly, you want to space out the plant very well.
  • This can also help with air circulation.
• Do not water the plant from above. Instead, water at the base.

Problems you may Face

The most common disease in phlox is powdery mildew. It can cover the lower leaves with a grayish-white powdery fungal that gradually works up the plant. This is common in warm, humid conditions. If your phlox is suffering from mildew, remove all the affected leaves of the plant to reduce the spread of mildew. Fungicide may be necessary if the problem persists. Spider mites can infect phlox in hot, dry conditions where the soil is moist.

Species

Certain types of phlox, notably garden phlox and moss phlox, are commonly found at garden centers, serving as staples for gardening enthusiasts. While some varieties may require a bit of searching to locate, the effort is rewarded by their unique beauty and charm.

Daylily

Daylilies are a favorite because they are dependable, come in beautiful and colorful blooms, are free of pests (in most cases), grow well in full sun or light shade and are tolerant of droughts, floods and extreme heat.

Height/Spread

Daylilies can range in height from 8 inches to 5 feet. The flowers are typically between 2 and 8 inches in length.

Tips for Growing

• Daylilies bloom the year after they are planted. They reach maturity 3 to 4 years after they are planted.
  • They usually bloom from late spring to fall.
• Daylilies grow best in direct sun or light shade.
• Daylilies prefer well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. If you have problems with drainage, we recommend planting them in raised garden beds.
  • Plant daylilies early in the fall or early spring when soil temperatures are not too hot or too cold.
• Plant each daylilly 18-24 inches apart, no deeper than 1 inch below the surface of the soil.
• Be sure to water daylilies thoroughly after planting and keep the soil damp for at least a week after.
  • While they are drought tolerant, watering daylilies during budding and flowering can help create higher-quality flowers.
• Slow-release fertilizers work great for daylilies. It is wise to fertilize in the early spring as new growth begins and once more in the middle of summer. Make sure the soil is damp when fertilizing.
• If daylilies become overcrowded, we recommend dividing them to give the plants more room to flower and grow.
• During the winter, remove any rotting or damaged foliage. In the fall, remove spent blooms and dead foliage to encourage fresh blooms the next season.

Problems you may Face

While daylilies are pest-resistant, it is common to experience spider mites, slugs, snails and aphids. The most common disease found in daylilies is leaf streak which appears as brown or yellow streaks in the leaves.

Species

Daylilies come in a variety of assorted colors, patterns and sizes. Certain species thrive in specific climates so make sure you do your research before purchasing.

Geranium

Geraniums are perennial plants, meaning they grow back each year. They can flourish in many places including flower beds, hanging baskets, window boxes and more.

Height/Spread

Geraniums vary in height, from 6 inches to several feet tall.

Tips for Growing

• Geraniums need at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Be sure to wait until the last frost to plant geraniums outdoors.
• After planting, make sure to water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out in between waterings.
  • Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Make sure the soil is draining easily.
• If the leaves begin to turn yellow, it may be time to fertilize. Make sure the soil is moist before fertilizing.
• Pinch off dead flowers to encourage new growth.
• If you are growing geraniums in containers, make sure the containers are large enough for the plant to develop a good and strong root system.
• Make sure there are drainage holes.
  • Repotting may be necessary as the plant grows.
• When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves.

Problems you may Face

Spotting on leaves, leaf drop and stems with black rot can be caused by bacterial leaf spot/blight. This occurs commonly in the winter, when the weather is colder and moist. When plants are overwatered, spots may occur on the leaves as well. Pests such as caterpillars, mites, whiteflies and aphids may be an issue. Keep an eye on your plants to ensure they are happy and healthy!

Species

Some geranium species are members of the genus Pelargonium, while others are part of the wildflowers and herbaceous perennial families.

Hosta

Hostas are a gardener’s favorite because they are easy to grow, tolerant of different environments and produce beautiful foliage for any garden.

Height/Spread

The size of a hosta can vary. The largest measure about 4 feet in height, with leaves that are 20 inches long. There are smaller ones that range between 1 – 2.5 feet tall.

Tips for Growing

• Plant hostas in partly shaded or fully-shaded areas. Some hosta species are sun tolerant but they grow best in shaded areas.
• Make sure to plant them in well-draining soil and water regularly when the soil is dry. If the weather is hot and dry, they will need to be watered more often.
• While they don’t need to be fertilized very often, you can fertilize them in the early spring when growth begins. Make sure the soil is moist when you do fertilize.
• Hostas can become overgrown or overcrowded so it is important to divide the plant if this occurs.
• Regularly remove flower stalks and dead leaves to encourage new growth. This will also help with pest control.

Problems you may Face

The most common problem for hostas is garden slugs. There are many treatment methods for garden slug infested hostas including drowning them or slug bait. If you have pets or young children, use EXTREME caution when using slug bait as it can be life threatening to consume. Spacing plants far apart can help with pest problems. If a hosta is in direct sunlight, they can change color, fade or even brown. Voles and deer can be a problem as well. Viruses can infect hostas and be spread by insects. If your plant is infected, the solution may be to dispose of the plant to prevent the virus from spreading to the rest of your plants.

Species

There are over 2,000 registered hosta species! Each species thrives in a different environment so make sure you do your research before purchasing a hosta. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and some even bloom!

Echinacea

Also known as coneflowers, echinacea are perennial plants that are native to the eastern and central regions of the United States. They come in 10 different species and thrive in dry prairies, as well as open-wooded areas. They can be used in herbal medicine (please do research before consuming).

Height/Spread

Echinacea species are characterized by their dark green lower leaves, which are lance to oval-shaped and typically measure 4 to 8 inches in length. As they ascend from the stems, the leaves gradually decrease in size and width. The flowers can range from 2 to 4 inches in diameter and feature a prominent mounded central cone composed of disk flowers in shades of brown. They can reach up to 4 feet tall and 20-28 inches wide.

Tips for Growing

• Blooming typically begins in mid-summer and persists sporadically until the first frost.
• Echinacea enjoy areas with full sun or partial shade.
  The flower prefers well-draining soil.
  • They are drought and heat tolerant.
• Fall is the best time for planting echinacea.
• Once an echinacea is an established plant, dead stems and foliage can be removed in the fall, winter and early spring to encourage new growth.
• Butterflies and birds enjoy environments with echinacea.
• Echinacea seeds can be planted outdoors as early as 2 months before the last frost.
• It is important to divide echinacea’s every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding.

Problems you may Face

Echinacea are subject to many plant diseases such as powdery mildew, stem rot and more. They are also subject to pest problems including aphids, mites and Japanese beetles. You can take precautionary measures by planting echinacea far enough apart, using well-draining soil and properly removing plant debris. Rabbits can be a major problem because they like to eat the foliage. It is imperative that you keep an eye on your plants to ensure they stay happy and healthy.

Species

Echinacea purpurea, the purple coneflower, is the most common variety of echinacea. They grow up to 2-3.5 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. Hybrid species are available as well and come in white, yellow, pink, orange and more. Each species varies in height and width.

Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons are flowering shrubs that prefer mild temperatures and little wind. They are typically easy to maintain. These beautiful plants come in multiple colors including pink, purple, yellow, orange and more! They blossom from early spring to midsummer.

Height/Spread

Rhododendrons come in many sizes and shapes. Some grow to 6 feet tall, while others can grow to 20 feet tall!

Tips for Growing

• Plant rhododendrons out of the wind and in partial shade.
• Proper drainage is very important for rhododendrons.
  • Organic matter can be used to improve drainage.
• The best place to plant them is on the north or east side of a building.
  The best time to plant your rhododendrons is in the fall so the roots can acclimate and prepare for growth in the spring.
• Mulch can be an option when planting rhododendrons because it retains moisture and helps with drainage.
• Newly planted rhododendrons require regular watering (about two times a week for the first year). Keep an eye on your rhododendrons in warmer climates and during dry spells.
  • Make sure the soil is dry when watering to avoid root rot.
• Fertilize rhododendrons only when they are an established plant. Do not fertilize when they are newly planted.
  • Nutrient deficiency can cause stunted growth, yellowish leaves or droopy leaves. If your rhododendrons are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to fertilize. Make sure to apply the fertilizer in moist soil.
• While these plants require little pruning, you can remove dead or damaged parts as well as shape your plants by pruning.
  • Deadheading (snapping off dead flower trusses) and debudding (pinching off leaf buds) can help strengthen buds that will bloom the next year.

Problems you may Face

Keep in mind when planting rhododendrons, pest problems can occur. If pest problems do arise, take action immediately to ensure they do not spread to other nearby plants or shrubs. Diseases such as root rot can happen when there is not proper drainage.

Species

Hybrid rhododendrons can acclimate to multiple climates. Before purchasing a rhododendron, make sure to research which species will fit your climate the best. When purchasing your rhododendrons, find plants that are well-branched and self-rooted.

Peonies

These beautiful shrubbery plants bloom in mid to late spring. Peonies thrive in climates that get cold during the winter, as cold weather is required for them to go dormant. They come in vibrant colors and add a pop of color to any garden.

Height/Spread

Most peonies grow to 2-3 feet tall and at maturity, they are 3-4 feet wide. Some species can vary in size, such as tree peonies that can grow to 4-5 feet tall.

Tips for Growing

• Peonies tend to be slow growing at first as they bloom 3 years after planting but they can live up to 100 years!
• For a beautiful bloom, Herbaceous peonies need at least 6 hours of full sun each day.
• Well-draining soil is perfect for peonies to help avoid root or fungal disease.
• Peonies prefer a pH of 6.5 – 7.0.
  • Adding lime to your soil can raise the pH level.
• Fall is the best time to plant peonies. It is pertinent to water thoroughly after planting.
• – Once the peonies are an established plant, they are drought resistant.
• Emerging blooms are usually dark red.
• Once the flowering is over, you will need to remove the seed heads to encourage continued growth the following year.
• To avoid plant diseases, you will need to cut back dead stems in the fall.
• If you have tree peonies, DO NOT cut them. They will not grow back if they are cut down. If you want to divide peonies, the best time to do so is in late September or early October.
• Most peonies require support to grow tall and strong. Using commercial hoops, stakes and plant ties can help stabilize the plant as it grows.

Problems you may Face

In most cases, peonies are resistant to pests and disease. The most frequent problem is leaf blotch or Botrytis blight. To help control the disease, you will need to cut the plant to ground level in the fall. Ants and Japanese beetles are attracted to the plant because of its sweet sap. If your peony will not bloom, it may be because it is planted too deep in the soil, has excess nitrogen, is not getting enough sunlight or has insect problems.

Species

Peonies come in many shapes and colors. They are available in single-flowered, semi-double, Japanese and anemone-type blossoms. Tree peonies come in different types of blossoms. If you want to add peonies to your landscape, make sure you research which species is best for your climate.

pine tree

Pine trees are one of the most important trees out there. The shape of the tree depends on the species. There are many species of pine trees to choose from.

Height/Spread

The height and spread of pine trees depend on the species. Mature trees can range from 4 feet tall to 150 feet tall!

Tips for Growing

• Pine trees are great for foundation plantings, accent trees and windbreaks.
  • Wildlife also love eating the seeds and using the trees for nesting.
• They grow best in well-draining, fertile soil.
• If they are being transferred, make sure there is plenty of soil around the roots.
• Pruning is unnecessary but feel free to remove dead or broken branches.
• Make sure to use slow-release fertilizers with newly planted trees.
• Putting mulch around old and new trees can reduce water stress and problems with weeds.

Problems you may Face

The most serious problem in pine trees is fusiform rust. This can cause the trunk to become weak, making it easy to break in high winds. It is usually best to remove trees that have fusiform rust. Pine trees can also face pest problems such as the pine bark beetle. If the needles turn yellow and begin dropping off, call an expert to check out your tree.

Species

There are many pine species to choose from including the longleaf pine, the loblolly pine, the slash pine, the spruce pine, the white pine, the Virginia or scrub pine, the Mugo pine and the Japanese black pine. Each one will grow at a different rate, size and shape. Make sure to do your research to find the pine that’s best for you!

CRABAPPLE TREES

Crabapple trees are absolutely beautiful! With their flowering and fruit variations, they are a favorite for people everywhere!

Height/Spread

There are a variety of sizes and forms of crabapple trees. They can range from a height and width of 10 – 25 feet. Some are more tree-like, while others can be more shrub-like. Their growth rate is slow, with a growth of only 8– 10 inches per year but the wait is worth it!

Tips for Growing

• They are adaptable to most environments but prefer full sun for beautiful blooms.
• The trees soil should be moist, well-draining and slightly acidic (from 6.0 – 6.5 pH).
• We recommend pruning the tree to help open up the center, allowing enough air and light to get in.
  • Remove unwanted branches and shape the tree in late winter or early spring (before buds arrive).

Problems you may Face

While crabapple trees are beautiful, they are susceptible to powdery mildew, cedar-apple rust, fire blight, apple scab, Japanese beetles, aphids and more. Make sure to use a cultivar that is specific for the area where the tree is planted.

Species

There are three main crabapple species: Japanese flowering crabapple (red and white flower buds, yellow/red fruit, grows between 15 – 25 feet tall), Tea crabapple (vase-shaped, grows between 20 – 25 feet tall, dark pink flower buds, red fruit) and Sargent crabapple (shrubby species, grows between 6 – 10 feet tall, red and white bud flowers, red fruit). Be sure to research which species will be best for your environment!

Maple tree

Maple trees are a very popular choice. They offer amazing colors during the fall season and have many species to choose from.

Height/Spread

Maples vary in size, with smaller maples reaching only 8 feet tall while larger maples reaching up to 100 feet tall! Their growth rate varies depending on the species.

Tips for Growing

• Choose a maple tree based on the landscape you intend to plant the tree.
• Maple trees like rich, porous and well-draining soil.
  • Some species are more tolerant of heat and dryness.
• Most species thrive in full sun or partial shade.
  • Some can become leaf scorched in direct sunlight.
• You will need to provide 3 – 4 inches of mulch beneath the canopy of the tree to cover surface roots that may be exposed.
• Be sure to prune twigs and branches during early growth of the tree.

Problems you may Face

Maples can have pest issues such as borers, scales and aphids. They can also suffer from leaf spots, bacterial leaf scorch, collar rot and more. Ice storms can cause issues for some fast-growing species of maple. If you want a low maintenance maple, we recommend choosing a slow-growing maple. Exposure wounds on the tree can cause pest infestations and disease.

Species

There are many species of maples, from Japanese maple to Red maple to Silver maple. They vary in size and shape and certain species thrive in specific environments. Make sure you do your research to determine which maple fits your environment the best before purchasing.

oak tree

Oak trees are very common throughout the United States. There are many beautiful species to choose from.

Height/Spread

The height and spread of an oak tree will depend on the species. Smaller oak trees can grow anywhere between 20 – 30 feet tall, while larger ones can grow to 50 – 100 feet tall. They are generally a slower growing tree.

Tips for Growing

• Oaks are divided into two groups:
  • “Red oaks” have bristles or points at the tips of the lobes. Acorns mature in two growing seasons, sprouting after maturity in the spring.
  • “White oaks” have leaves with rounded ends and points with no bristly tips like the red oak.
• They do bear acorns but they mature in one season, falling that autumn.
• Oaks need space to grow and mature.
• While some are tolerant to dryer or wetter soils, all oaks thrive in well-draining soil.

Problems you may Face

Depending on the species, oaks can have pest problems including scale insects, falls and borers. They can also have an issue with leaf scorch and oak wilt. Iron deficiency can cause chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves. On larger, more mature trees, disease and insect control is generally easier than with younger oak trees.

Species

There are multiple species of oak trees including white oak, water oak, pin oak, willow oak and other common evergreen oaks. Each species has a different size, shape and leaf style. Make sure to do your research prior to purchasing so you can choose the right oak tree species for you and your environment!

dogwood tree

The dogwood tree is native to the eastern United States but can adapt to different environments. This tree comes in three species!

Height/Spread

The height and spread of a dogwood tree will depend on the species and the location it is planted. The height can range from 15 – 20 feet tall, with some reaching 40 feet tall! They grow at a slow rate (an average of 20 feet every 25 years).

Tips for Growing

• Most flowering dogwood trees prefer partial shade, especially in the hot afternoon.
• We recommend planting them as a border accent near a patio or deck.
• They prefer well-draining and moist soil with a higher acidity level (between 5.5 – 6.0 pH).
  • Add organic matter like compost to the soil before planting.
• Mulch helps the tree retain moisture and protects the tree from damage caused by trimmers and lawn mowers.
  • Do not place mulch directly against the tree trunk.
• Fall is the best time to plant a dogwood tree.
• Lightly fertilize the tree in the spring and once again after the last frost.
  • Look for a well-balanced, acid-forming, extended-release and azalea fertilizer.
  • Avoid fertilizing trees that may be dying due to drought.
  • Make sure when you fertilize, the soil is moist.
• Dogwoods do not like extremely wet or extremely dry soil.
  • You will need to water the tree during dry periods (1 – 2 inches per week), especially if they are located in the sun.
• If you use sprinklers or other water sources, make sure to do so in the morning.
• Make sure to purchase a tree from a reputable nursery.

Problems you may Face

Dogwood trees are at risk for diseases such as powdery mildew, as well as insects and pests such as larva. Certain species such as Kousa dogwoods are more resistant to pests, as well as the Cornelian cherry dogwood. Make sure to research which species is right for you!

Species

There are three species of dogwood trees: flowering dogwood/Cornus florida (grows up to 40 feet tall, has white, pink or red flowers and fruit grows in clusters), kousa dogwood/Cornus kousa (grows between 15 – 30 feet tall, has white and pink flowers and edible fruit that resembles raspberries) and cornelian cherry dogwood/Cornus Mas (grows between 20 – 25 feet tall, has yellow flowers, is a good candidate for being a hedge or shrub border and has falling fruit).

London Planetree

Height/Spread

Mature london planetrees can grow between 70 – 100 feet tall and 65 – 80 feet wide, with some of the largest ones reaching 120 feet tall! They grow about 2 feet taller every year.

Tips for Growing

• These trees do very well in open places such as parks or managed areas.
• If there are sidewalks, curbs or other concrete structures around, ensure you plant the tree at least 6 feet away from them, so the roots have enough room to spread out.
• London planetrees prefer well-draining, rich, deep and moist soil.
  • They can tolerate poorer soil but may not thrive.
• They prefer sun or very light shade.

Problems you may Face

London planetrees can suffer from powdery mildew, anthracnose and canker stain. Some are somewhat resistant to tree diseases. Other concerns include aggressive roots, litter and poor turn beneath the growth of the tree.

American Sycamore

There are 10 species of sycamore trees to choose from. They are often used to shade different areas. Their patterns are beautiful and eye catching.

Height/Spread

American sycamores are also known as buttonwood or buttonball. They are massive trees that grow anywhere from 75 – 175 feet tall, with a trunk diameter of 10 – 14 feet. They grow about 2 feet taller each year.

Tips for Growing

• Sycamore trees grow to be very large so make sure they have ample space to grow.
• Many can grow 2 trunks, 1 being the central trunk.
• These often have red to gray-brown and scaly bark. When the bark peels, the smooth, lighter-colored bark will become exposed.
• Sycamores may be considered too big for most residential properties.
  • They are primary used in parks, larger-scaled landscapes and stream planting.
• They can be considered high maintenance trees with their leaf and twig litter, problems with disease and aggressive root systems.
• Make sure your sycamore has full sun or partial shade, with deep, moisture rich soil.
  • Make sure the soil has low oxygen levels and a higher pH level.
• Make sure to prune branches that are drooping or branches that block potential paths of travel.
  • When pruning, do so in the winter.
  • Remove dead, damaged or diseased wood to stop the spread of disease within the tree.
• Avoid planting sycamore trees near well-tended lawns, sidewalks, walkways and buildings because of the leaf, twig and fruit litter.

Problems you may Face

During wet and cool springs, anthracnose can be a serious problem for sycamore trees. Diseases such as bacterial leaf scorch, powdery mildew, cankers and leaf spots can arise as well. Pests such as aphids, borers and sycamore lace bugs are common pests in sycamore trees.

River Birch Tree

In the wild, river birch trees grow near the banks of rivers, streams, floodplains and bottomlands throughout the eastern United States. They are a great tree, with their year-round, two-toned bark.

Height/Spread

Most river birch trees grow to around 30 – 60 feet tall and 20 – 50 feet wide. Multi-trunked trees are considered the “most attractive form” of birch river trees.

Tips for Growing

• River birch trees produce reddish-green flowers called catkins.
  • These appear in the late summer and autumn and will remain on the tree during the winter.
• River birches can tolerate both wet and dry conditions.
• They tend to shed twigs and leaves during the summer and fall months.
• Adding a 2 – 3 inch layer of mulch can help the tree conserve moisture.
• The leaves can suffer from chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves if the soil has a pH level of 6.5 or higher.
• These trees are a great source of shade.

Problems you may Face

While river birch trees do not face serious pest issues, fungal leaf spot disease can occur during rainy summers. They are susceptible to the spiny witch hazel gall aphid. These aphids can affect the leaves of the tree.

Species

River birch trees come in a variety of sizes, looks and shapes. Make sure to research before purchasing to ensure your tree fits well with you and your environment.