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Let everything be allowed to do what it naturally does, so that its nature will be satisfied. ... Chuang Tzu

We have seasons that delineate the passing of time, temperatures, and events. Though the calendar months are supposed to help us weave through and plan for these changes, each year brings us surprises. For example, last year we were blessed with a very wet spring. The precipitation continued throughout most of the year, causing us to let our guards down. This year, we are off to a dry start. If it continues, we will be in the same situation we were in, during the drought of 2002. The key to gardening is to choose plants that exhibit qualities that remain consistent, no matter what Mother Nature throws at us. This can be accomplished, and still maintain a garden that changes with the seasons, the times, and ourselves.

Tamarix, or Tamarisk, comprises 50 or more species of tough shrubs and small trees which occur naturally in southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia, in dry riverbeds. They can adapt to a wide range of soils and climates, including salt spray and very dry conditions. The most widely grown species is Tamarix ramosissima. This is an elegant, deciduous shrub that grows to about 15 feet, with a spread of about 10 feet. Its tiny blue-green leaves are very frost hardy, and the branches area a dark red-brown. "Pink Cascade" is a vigorous cultivar which bears rich rose-pink, plume-type flowers in late summer and early fall. It is hardy in zones 2 to 10, making it a shrub that spans many needs.

Most of us are familiar with the various Heuchera, or "Coral Bells" available. This group of interesting plants bears airy clusters of flowers (great for cutting) on erect stems from dense mounds of lobed foliage. They are best grown in fertile, moist, but well-drained soil, in a shade-to-partial sun location. They are attractive to nectar seekers, are long-blooming, and deer resistant. They can also be grown under black walnut trees. "Amber Waves" is our favorite, with its ruffled, amber/gold- to rust foliage, setting off stems of rose colored flowers. At eight to sixteen inches, it is ideal for container plantings, as well-stunning!

Contrast makes for an intriguing garden or container, and Cimicifuga "Black Negligee" accomplishes that, and more. It reaches 49" which alone, grabs attention. Dark purple stems and nearly black, lacy foliage work as a foil, when grouped. Fragrant, purple tinted white flowers in late summer add to its appeal. It prefers soil that is well-drained, but does not entirely dry out, in a mostly shade location. Pair it with the Amber Waves-dare to be different!

Roses have been around for a very long time, and are seeped in lore, legend, and memory. They awaken all our senses. For a brief primer, click here. Watch for our gallery of photos, as we add to our list of favorites.

If you haven't visited us lately, now is the time. Get inspired. Come visit!

Folks, please remember to ALWAYS bring plant and bug samples in a plastic bag. It is very important that everyone be aware of the possibility of contaminating businesses, homeowner properties, and the Earth in general (think of it as a horticultural condom).
THANK YOU!

As always, all information given in the newsletter and on the website in general apply primarily to the zone 7/partial zone 6 regions of Virginia.

There are many new and fabulous things in store for you, at Dirty Hands Garden Center. We always appreciate your suggestions and opinions. Please feel free to contact us directly at Dirty Hands Email. Or, better yet, come see us in person!
Woo-Hoo!
Peace out.
Rock forward.

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As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact us directly, either through the contact form, or by calling 804-598-8945, or visiting us at 2603 Anderson Hwy., Powhatan, VA. 23139 (This information pertains to the greater Richmond, Va. area and may vary slightly with each locality).