Darlene Underwood is a Mississippi master gardener, national accredited flower show judge and Garden Clubs of Mississippi third vice-president. Reach her at darlene.underwood@att.net.
Chrysanthemums are the quintessential flower of fall. Who doesn’t remember the huge mums worn by their high school homecoming court? How about the orange and yellow nursery mums adorning many Coast porches each Halloween? Admittedly, I’ve killed many a potted mum — not intentionally, of course, but from sheer neglect or enthusiasm to keep them […]
Gardening is not as pleasant in the August heat, so during this month, I’m looking for a way to keep myself in a gardening frame of mind. For instance, I’m pondering what I’d like to plant when the sweltering heat subsides, usually mid-October. Early mornings or late afternoons find me walking the perimeter of my […]
“I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree …” Here on the Coast, we enjoy the beauty of majestic live oaks. These mighty trees bend with constant winds sweeping across the Gulf. They have survived hurricanes, tornadoes, construction and commercial development. They have provided shade and respite from our sweltering […]
Now that summer officially has reached the Coast, it’s a forgone conclusion that our gardens are gloriously blooming or struggling with heat, humidity or the inexperience or neglect of human hands. There are many ways to kill a beloved plant and, believe me, I’ve killed my fair share. As a college student craving the solace […]
With the warmer weather and an abundance of flowers blooming, most of us are enjoying getting outside to work in our gardens, stroll the neighborhood or hike in one of the many parks along the Coast. It’s not unusual to spot an unfamiliar plant growing along the trail or popping up unannounced in the flower […]
Spring brings anticipation of new beginnings, new adventures and an almost uncontrollable desire to spend more time outside, whether to enjoy a cup of coffee or entertain family and friends. On the Coast, nurseries and home improvement stores are filled with color, beauty and new plant varieties. If you’re like me, it’s difficult not to […]
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful plants, orchids are prized for their delicate and unusual blooms. Whether they are displayed individually or in groupings, these gorgeous flowers brighten our homes, offices and studios. They often are used in arrangements, bouquets and boutonnieres to make occasions like weddings and school dances even more […]
Gardeners on the Gulf Coast are fortunate to have mild winter weather, giving us flexibility that those farther north can only dream of. Garden plans made in January can be implemented this month, as our weather will soon allow us to plant outside. Here are some February gardening tasks to put on your to-do list: […]
Even in the bleak, cold winter, we in the deep South still enjoy riotous color with camellias. Here’s everything you need to know about this beautiful, robust plant. WHAT ARE CAMELLIAS? Camellia japonica, which originated in Japan and China, has become a staple in Southern gardens. Different varieties bloom in the fall, throughout the winter […]
Forcing bulbs is a wonderful way to bring about an early spring inside your home while winter winds are still blowing outside. There are many spring bulbs you can choose to force indoors, including amaryllis, daffodils, paperwhites, tulips, grape hyacinths and crocuses. • Selecting bulbs is the first step to success. Choose firm, healthy bulbs […]
