Newsletter / May 2010

The weather has been sporadic as it always is here in New England in early spring. But May has arrived and with it will come steadier temperatures and a more nurturing climate for those colorful annuals. So start planning your gardens, if you haven't already. Many come to our greenhouses just to stroll through and get ideas. We always have the favorites, but David surprises us with some new varieties and species each year.

We hope that all of you were not badly affected by the rain and flooding in late March. One not-so-significant but still pesky effect of the water seems to be slugs. David has been passing along this advice: Mix a simple solution of 20% household ammonia (1 part ammonia to 4 parts water). Using a watering can, apply this solution generously as a soil soak around the crown of your plants just as they are breaking the soil. This solution will kill overwintering slugs and slug eggs in the soil. Once your plants have leafed out, a milder 10% solution can be applied during the growing season.

Mother's Day is approaching -- May 9th. We have a great selection of indoor and outdoor plants perfect for mom, gorgeous trailing hanging plants or bring in your own container, pick the plants, and we'll fill it for you! Another great idea is an Earth Box (see the details on the upcoming class). It's the gift that keeps on giving...veggies! Our gift shop is also full of really unique items you can't find in area stores.

And, believe it or not, Memorial Day is at the end of the month. Normally, we are closed on Mondays, but we will be open for the Monday of that weekend.

Happy May...Happy planting!

Barbara & David Frerichs