Coleus for Color

Looking for an annual to add a little color to your shady beds?
Try Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides).  There are over 600 varieties of Coleus to choose from. 

The plant tag for this one didn’t list the variety.  Determined to figure out which one I have (so I can get it again next year) I’ve done some research and have decided that it’s most probably “Fireball”.

For more information on Coleus visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website.

Crape Myrtle for Outstanding Fall Color

In June 2008 I planted a semi-dwarf Crape Myrtle in my front yard with the intention of adding some summer color to my otherwise mostly green landscape.  I was taking a bit of a chance since I live in the Northeast and wasn’t really sure how well this plant, typically seen in the south, would do in my area.

So far it’s been a great success.  During the summer months of July and August it was in full bloom with large hot pink flowers.  But, the real show started about a week ago when the leaves turned bright yellow and orange.

If you’re looking for a shrub or small tree with outstanding fall color, try Hopi Crape Myrtle - Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei 'Hopi'.

How to Design an Environmentally Friendly Garden

Over the years, more and more homeowners are becoming aware of the fact that when designing their garden, there is the environment that they also need to take into consideration. Rather than designing the layout of the garden with only aesthetics in mind, it is a good idea to also consider sustainability. As a result, you can make sure that you not only have a beautiful but an eco-friendly garden as well. Read the full article.

This article was contributed by Emma Spivey – SolarWaterFountains.org