Whoa Josh!!! Gee, thanks for all the neat "links" you posted for me!! I was in reading last night for quite a length of time, & there is much info on alot of this stuff! Now, I'm not sure if Missouri's type of foliage & flowers are similar to ours here in Idaho, as I think they might "differ" a bit... mostly due to our Desert climate right in our area. The MOBOT Herbarium Instruction page was a "mind-blower," as it was some really in-depth reading, and I could go for hours on that one! Wow! I was really glad to hear you know what "Prickly-Pear" Cactus' are, because they grow wild here, by the "scads," and alot of folks use them in their rock gardens & such. When roaming or hiking in the mountains or Desert areas around here, you really have to watch where you're stepping, because of the large groups of them that grow everywhere! I've even seen them growing right out of the tops of lava rocks around here... with no soil!!! Too bad I can't figure out a way to get the beautiful blossoms off of them to "press & dry!" (... that would be a real fiasco` though, because of how sharp they are!) You had mentioned the "Yucca" Plant. That is one I am not very familiar with. I did try to grow some "Yucca" at one time out here, but as usual, I had no luck. It is just too dry on our Ranch here. I will have to ask around & see if folks grow any Yucca around here. I have not navigated around on the Site much here yet, since I have been a Member, so haven't went into the "Native forum" yet... but will do that. Thanks. You are right when you stated that right now, we should have a vast array of tiny flowers & things growing out in the Desert here on our Ranch. Always in the Spring time here in our area, everything of Nature is just loaded with many unusual Spring flowers & foliage. I am hoping to get out and pick some wild "Indian Paint Brush" to press & dry, that's for sure! This was something I wanted to do over the Easter week-end, but our weather was really stormy with alot of high gusts of Wind,... so I couldn't get out to do that. I am like you Josh... not only do I like to attempt to press & dry "flowers," but I also like the foliage... alot of it, & am always so interested in dried "leaves" and such. "Moss" fascinates me too!! I was reading on some of the previous "links" you gave to me on various plants, & it was telling how to "skeletonize" leaves & such... That was quite interesting to me! (maybe something I'll have to try sometime, but realize it's also difficult to do.) As far as me "trading" any plants from your area, I would be willing just to send you some of my Western "sage" foliage from out here... because that's all it is, is "leaves," but I would have to "press & dry" some first. Let me know what you think? Thank you for responding & Posting Josh.. it's always good to hear from you, & I will be in reading more of the info in the "links" you sent to me as well. Take care, & I will anticipate hearing from you again~ Warmest regards, ~ IndianPaintBrush ~

*Posted by donnad z6 MD (My Page) on Thu, Jun 13, 02 at 22:56 What's your favorite gardening book? What book would you recommend to a gardener moving to this area? Thanks in advance for any replies! *Posted by: drtynails z7 MD (My Page) on Fri, Jun 14, 02 at 11:39 "Gardening for Dummies" series. Very informative and amusing. * Posted by: donnad z6 MD (My Page) on Fri, Jun 14, 02 at 22:37 My favorite book which is currently "Home Landscape: Mid-Atlantic Region" by Roger Holmes. It has several landscape designs you can really use - or in my case adapt. * Posted by: Madgardenr z7WDC (My Page) on Thu, Jun 20, 02 at 21:57 My truly favorite, semi-regional book is "Time-Tested Plants" by Pamela Harper. While she lives a bit south of DC, her book is a wonderful compendium of what has worked for her and what hasn't over many years of gardening in heat and humidity, both of which we have in abundance. I love all her books, but this is my favorite. You might also look at "The Washington Post Garden Book" by Adrian Higgins. * Posted by: Julia z7 MD (My Page) on Sat, Jun 22, 02 at 16:18 "Time Tested Plants" is a good one. Just thought you might want to know that the MD Extension Service sells its Maryland Master Gardener Handbook for $49 and has many other short publications for free or for cheap including a new one on natives I just ordered for $5. Most public libraries have a copy of the MGH you can look at in the reference section. Still reading copies of Henry Mitchell's books for inspiration. Of course, Dirr's "Manual of Woody Landscape Plants" is the one reference book you can't live without. * Posted by: VALily (My Page) on Mon, Jun 24, 02 at 23:43 American Horticultural Society "A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants". My all time favorite reference bible! Also really enjoy "Passalong Plants" by Steve Bender and someone else. Great read with loads of good information on Southern, easy to grow plants! * Posted by: razmataz z7 VA (My Page) on Sun, Aug 18, 02 at 13:22 "Sunset Northeastern Garden Book" is my bible & I also like "Gardening with Native Plants of the South" by Sally Wasowski. Moved from CA to Va a couple of years ago & both have been extremely helpful. * Posted by: foxbuild 6b (My Page) on Wed, Aug 28, 02 at 20:52 "Lasagna Gardening". Love it *Posted by Mrsgreenjeans z6/7 SE/PA (My Page) on Fri, Nov 29, 02 at 14:10 Well, it's that time of year again when I start to spend more time indoors than I would like to. With the holidays coming, gardening books are always welcome. I would like to recommend "Month-By-Month GARDENING in PENNSYLVANIA" by Liz Ball. I do wish the chapters went from month to month rather than topic divided month by month, but very informative for our area. Also pertinent to our area, and excellent for information as well as the beautiful inspirational, photography are books by Ken Druse. I have "The Natural Shade Garden" and "Making More Plants", which happened to be one of last years favorite presents received. (thanks Jevon) * Posted by: Blueheron z6 PA (My Page) on Fri, Nov 29, 02 at 21:14 I also like "The Pennsylvania Gardener" by Derek Fell who gardens in Bucks County. * Posted by: jenny_in_SE_PA 6b/7a Sunset 32 (My Page) on Sun, Dec 1, 02 at 15:45 One of the best books that I found last year was the "Sunset Northeast Garden" book (published 2001, Sunset Publishing). It is put out by the folks who do the Sunset Western Gardening Zones/book. I really enjoyed the fact that they described our climate here so well and that I could go through the plant listings and "relate" to and/or find ones that I see growing around here. So many "general" garden enyclopedias list generic plants and cultivars of them that I just don't see planted here or even offered at the local nurseries. They even had a picture of a box turtle in the middle of some hardy geraniums and by golly, I have raised enough of those turtles (found by the creek) when I was little! BTW, the book does include New England down through the Mid-Atlantic states. * Posted by: Mrsgreenjeans z6/7 SE/PA (My Page) on Sat, Jan 11, 03 at 9:35 Well, my son picked a winner of book for me this Christmas; "Gardens of Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley" by William Klein, Jr. and georgeous photos by Derek Fell. It has detailed chapters ranging from Private gardens to public parks, preserves, history. Several of the locations described are near and dear to me, several will be "must sees" this year. *Posted by jgwoodard z6 TN (My Page) on Fri, Jan 17, 03 at 17:28 I mainly care about herbaceous perennials, but ironically, my favorite book is: Reunion of Trees: The Discovery of Exotic Plants & Their Introduction into North American & European Landscapes - by Stephen A. Spongberg. I like it so much that I made a visit to the Arnold Arboretum before I finished it. I am now reading a related work: The Plants that Shaped our Gardens - by David Stuart. Both of them deal with plant history, geography, and logistics....sort of in the "plant hunter" genre. They are both published by Harvard University Press and easily obtainable. As far as botanical reference stuff, I mainly rely on Allan Armitage's books, (particularly: Herbaceous perennial plants : a treatise on their identification, culture, and garden attributes) because of its applicability to my climate here in middle Tennessee, although I use a great variety for specific purposes.....just wondering what you folks like. * Posted by: Bill_zone6 W. Pa (My Page) on Fri, Jan 17, 03 at 17:47 Manual of "Herbaceous Ornamental Plants" by Steven M. Still is what I refer to a lot. * Posted by: TamaraVa z7bVa (My Page) on Sat, Jan 18, 03 at 21:01 I have this HUGE Botanica book that I refer to whenever I think of adding a new plant to my garden. It has an amazing listing for thousands of perennials, shrubs and trees. It has saved me a few times from making costly mistakes. I picked it up at the bargain bin at Barnes and Noble.The last few years I have really enjoyed "Garden writing". I love to read and re-read Henry Mitchell ,for instance, he makes me chuckle.It's as if he is looking over my fence commenting on a day in a gardeners life. I feel I learn much more from gardeners stories than from how to books. I just finished Diane Ackerman's book "Cultivating Delight, A Natural History of My Garden" Fantastic reading. * Posted by: nasj z4/5 and z7 NY (My Page) on Thu, Jan 23, 03 at 12:10 Allen Lacy: Gardening with Groundcovers and Vines, and The Garden in Autumn. * Posted by: booboo1410 (My Page) on Mon, Jan 27, 03 at 18:02 I enjoy reference books best rather than "reading books", my faves are: "The American Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants" by Christopher Brickell, Judith Zuk (DK Publishing) "Botanica" by R. G. Turner, Jr. (Barnes & Noble - the name on this book has recently been changed!!) These two cover perennials, trees and shrubs. I also have specific books on a particular genus, but these 2 generally give enough info. to get what you need. For herbs, I recommend: "The Herb Society of America Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses" by Deni Brown (DK Publishing) * Posted by: VTSKIERS z6a CT (My Page) on Mon, Jan 27, 03 at 19:28 Well it used to be "The Well Tended Perennial Garden" by Tracy DiSabato-Aust but I just received my copy of her new book, "The Well Designed Mixed Garden" and my initial impression is that this one will far exceed my expectations. If you don't have it, get it. * Posted by: Lilac5 5A (My Page) on Mon, Jan 27, 03 at 21:36 The 20-Minute Gardener by Tom Christopher and Marty "Something". Lots of fun, good ideas, and a nicely irreverent attitude. * Posted by: Iris_gal z9 CA (My Page) on Tue, Jan 28, 03 at 3:30 ?Perrenials For American Gardens? by Ruth R. Clausen & N.H. Ekstrom is one book that combines photos with accurate information. A treasure. * Posted by: buxusareyou z6 NC (My Page) on Tue, Jan 28, 03 at 7:29 Southern Gardens - A Handbook for the Middle South by Elizabeth Lawrence * Posted by: CarrieB z6b/7a Phila. (My Page) on Tue, Jan 28, 03 at 10:02 buxusareyou, have you read Two Gardeners . Letters between Katherine White (EB's wife, and a gardener & garden writer) and Elizabeth Lawrence? I just got it out of the library. Lovely. * Posted by: Avid Z5IL (My Page) on Sun, Mar 2, 03 at 12:53 Allen Armitage - Herbaceous Perennial Plants, Clausen/Ekstrom - Perennials for American Gardens, Fred McGourty - The Perennial Gardener, Although I admit I don't seek out new books that much and these are a few years old, I always enjoy them. Armitage and McGourty are also funny guys. * Posted by: ChrisMD 7 (My Page) on Sun, Mar 2, 03 at 13:57 All time favorites are Henry Mitchell's four books. He was the local Washington Post garden writer here in DC so I've been reading his columns since forever. He died several years ago and I still miss him and I've been told the same by many local gardeners. Other favorites: "Gardening for Love" by Elizabeth Lawrence "Washington's Gardens at Mount Vernon" by Mac Griswold "The Medieval Garden" by Sylvia Landsburg. I was so smitten with this book that I paid big buck$$$ for it at the Cluny Museum in Paris, thinking I would never see it again. It is remaindered now and you can get it for about $7 if you look for it. Very useful for plant lists. Roger Phillips and Martyn Rix's series for Random House. It is really useful to see 20 clematis cultivars (or whatever) laid out on one page for photography so that you can make direct comparisons. Also, since the series originates in England, there are a LOT of plants that are very rare for us Americans. "Naturalizing Bulbs" by Rob Proctor. An excellent book and unique when it was published. "Gardening with Groundcovers and Vines" by Allen Lacy. Full of great ideas for layering plantings. I like Lacy's other writings too, but since he spent a lot of time on cultivars, they're beginning to look dated. Eleanor Perenyi's sole book - can't remember the title but it has recently been reissued. A collection of tiny elegant essays on all aspects of gardening. "French Dirt" by Richard Goodman. A vicarious vacation. Heronswood Nursery catalogs - excellent if quirky reference books. * Posted by: superphosphate 5a, NH (My Page) on Tue, Mar 4, 03 at 0:20 "The New Generation Guide 'WILD FLOWERS of Britain and Northern Europe' " by Alastair Fitter, general editor, David Attenborough. University of Texas Press, 1987. ISBN 0-292-75535-X . A few wildflowers (and weeds by American standards) have not crossed the Atlantic. About half the book an enthusiastic and very readable detailed treatise over the whole landscape of botany. Charmingly British. If this is not in print now, it ought to be. * Posted by: buxusareyou z6 NC (My Page) on Tue, Mar 4, 03 at 12:47 ChrisMD - I loved French Dirt, too. What a delightful story about the birth of a gardener. Russell Page's, The Education of a Gardener was an inspiration. * Posted by: back40jen 5 (My Page) on Tue, Mar 4, 03 at 14:18 I highly recommend "People with Dirty Hands" by Robin Chotzinoff, especially for those of us trying to distract ourselves from the long, dreary winter. The book has profiles/interviews with passionate, eccentric gardeners and is just plain fun to read. I agree with the poster that likes the 20 minute Gardener, I like that too, especially the sense of humor, rare in gardening books. * Posted by: Gazania z5PA (My Page) on Tue, Mar 4, 03 at 16:33 I own or have read nearly all the books mentioned here. All are good books, but the one I most often turn to is the Sunset Northeastern Garden Book. I think that many of the people on this forum are new to gardening and will look in on this thread hoping for a guide to good basic information on many aspects of gardening. The Sunset Books cover it all in an easy to navigate format. From annuals to vegetables and everything in between. It not only tells you what is desireable about a specific plant, but also what kinds of problems that plant is susceptible to. It lists detailed information of many species. For instance there are 42 named varieties of magnolia listed giving characteristics of each. Whether you know it as catnip, catmint or nepeta, you will be able to find it. For the novice gardener, this is the perfect book for learning, and for the well seasoned gardener, a quick reference. I would like to see more credit given to Sunset for putting together these invaulable garden books. It seems that the "professional" plant people look down their noses at Sunset. At $30.00 it is a good buy, and you can find it online much cheeper. * Posted by: Shelley_R 7b NC (My Page) on Sun, Mar 16, 03 at 6:42 Made for the Shade, by Judy Glattstein. This book is much more than a listing of shade plants. It discusses the different types of shade, solutions to specific shade problems, all types of plants, and more. It's well-organized and has beautiful photos. Really both a reading and reference book. If you garden in the shade, get this book. I also find myself frequently referring to Don Hastings' Month-By-Month Gardening in the South. It inlcudes all types of plants and has info and instructions on all basic gardening activities (planting a tree, pruning a rose, renovating a lawn, etc). This is my number one choice for a beginner book for anyone gardening in the South. * Posted by: Storygardener 5/6 central oh (My Page) on Sun, Mar 16, 03 at 7:06 One book that I particularly like is "The Well Tended Garden" by Tracy DiSabato-Aust. Traci lives in the Greater Columbus, Ohio area too...so for me and other gardeners of this similar climate the book is invaluable. So many tips on general care, pruning for longest and most interesting blooms of many plants, and wonderful ideas. I learned about his book at this forum about 3-4 years ago. It is very very worthwhile! * Posted by: PaulaCat Z8 Coastal SC ) on Fri, Mar 28, 03 at 12:58 "Passalong Plants" by Steve Bender and Felder Rushing. While it deals with "classic" southern plants, it's really about the first great joy of gardening...sharing your treasures with others and remembering those who shared with you. * Posted by: flower_fairy z6a MA (My Page) on Fri, Mar 28, 03 at 17:21 Second Nature: A Gardener's Education by Michael Pollan is wonderful reading.

What to Visit in the Mid-Atlantic Posted by ChrisMD 7 (My Page) on Sun, Sep 15, 02 at 23:50 Hi - if you were going to visit the Mid-Atlantic - what would you think is worth the trip? Ratings: * would turn off to see it if I was already passing by ** would be worth planning a detour *** would be worth a special trip **** would be worth an overnight stay ***** You must see this or you can't call yourself a gardener! We're looking for gardens, arboretums, zoos, natural wonders, historic sites, museums, the bizarre, or anything else of interest to a gardener. Can't include commercial sites such as nurseries or garden centers (sorry). Please tell us why you've selected your nominations, include the location and address if you can. I'll nominate our first 5-star: ***** Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania! Remember - the Mid-Atlantic covers West Virginia, Virginia, DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and New York. I'm really looking forward to learning about your special places. Spike asks that we not post links on the FAQ pages, but you can usually find the official websites if you "Google" with the name and location. Chris - the FAQ editor MARYLAND::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Cynthia z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 0:30 * Baltimore Conservancy & Baltimore Zoo * Cylburn Arboretum in Baltimore Both of these are worth visits for anyone in the area. Let's face it, everything pales in comparison to Longwood, which I agree is worth a 'special trip.' Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 Sotterly Plantation, St. Mary's County, Maryland Posted by: DawnStorm 7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 11:50 Brookside Gardens: A gem of a place in Mont. County; no matter how many times I go there, there's always something I missed seeing the last time. Posted by: Cecilia_MD7a 7a/Baltimore,MD (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 12:37 Another vote for Brookside Gardens - best of all, it's free! Posted by: gardening_at_night 7A ) on Sat, Sep 21, 02 at 8:57 Brookside Gardens in Silver Spring is nice. National Arboretum in DC is okay, I like their Fern Valley. Posted by: sprig z7 Md (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 17:26 Brookside Gardens Posted by: Julia z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 30, 02 at 22:15 ****Ladew Topiary Gardens in Monkton MD: A WOW for topiary fans and for those who aren't avid about individual specimen plants. So interesting to see a garden that reflects a single personality! Nice house tour and mostly accessible to the handicapped. Its been a hit for me with touring friends and relatives. In the summer, you can visit, picnic, and stay on for a chamber music concert. Posted by: scausey z6/7 MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 15, 02 at 22:56 Lilypons in Buckeystown, Maryland: An interesting place to visit northwest of Washington, D.C. is Lilypons water gardens. They sell plants, fish and garden accoutrements, but they have a beautiful setting near Sugarloaf mountain with acres of ponds to walk around. It's a great place for birding, too. We've seen bald eagles there. C&O Canal Towpath in Montgomery County, Md: If you like wildflowers, take a walk in April or May on the C&O Canal Towpath from Riley's Lock or off Sycamore Landing at the end of River Road in Montgomery County, MD. Even in March, bloodroot are everywhere, and later there are wild phlox, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman's breeches, etc, in profusion. Birding is excellent in the spring there, too. Posted by: Antique_Geek (My Page) on Mon, Jan 20, 03 at 8:53 St. Mary's, southern Maryland: If you want a ride in the country, how about Historic St. Mary's City, Maryland. To be sure it IS at the end of the road but it is a neat place to visit. Recall if you will it is the site of the 1634 first permanent settlement in Maryland. Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 ***William Paca House in Annapolis: A nifty town garden. Paca was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and this is a restoration of his 18th-century garden, complete with parterres, a knot garden, a pond and a small observatory. They have a wonderful plant sale each March where you can get heirloom plants for cheap: historic veggies, Lady Banks roses, hyacinth bean vines, Job's Tears, bronze fennel, several kinds of old-style hollyhock, and so forth, all for $2-$4 each. It's off Prince George Street in downtown Annapolis. Aside from the open house during the sales, tours of the house and garden are about $8, and well worth it. Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 **Surreybrooke in Middleton, Md: Another lovely afternoon can be spent at this garden. They do sell plants, but have beautiful display gardens for strolling. Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden: is also a lovely small garden in Annapolis, Md. It's only 5 acres. I can't rate it as I've never been there personally, but have seen it on TV. Ah, time to travel! Woodend Bird Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, Md is an historic site with 40 acres and dates back to 1699. The Mansion on site dates from about 1925 and was designed by John Russell Pope. This is the headquarters of the Audubon Naturalist Society. (Not really a garden. Some of the grounds are landscaped but mostly it is kept wild for birdwatching. They do have nice events, including a Winter Crafts Fair in early December...the ed.) Posted by: Msilaine NoVa 7 (My Page) on Thu, Jan 16, 03 at 17:58 National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD: Another of my other favorite places is the Tropical Rain Forest at the top of the National Aquarium in Baltimore. Very warm, full of plants, full of birds, very moist, warm, air. Rather small and crowded and sometimes noisy but that tropical air reminds me of my former home when I feel a bit homesick. WASHINGTON DC:::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 National Arboretum, Washington DC Washington Cathedral herb garden and grounds, Washington DC Dumbarton Oaks, Washington DC US Botanical Garden, Washington DC Posted by: Johnnieb Washington, DC (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 11:25 All in Washington, DC: ***** National Arboretum *** National Zoo (has some really nice landscaping with some unusual plants, and the Amazonia house is a fabulous indoor rain forest) *** U.S. Botanic Garden ** Bartholdi Park (part of the USBG but across Independence Ave. and easily missed) ** Dumbarton Oaks * Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens * Old Stone House garden (on M Street in Georgetown) ** Several small gardens around the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall: Butterfly Habitat Garden (Museum of Natural History), Enid A. Haupt Garden (the Castle), and the Kathrine Dulin Folger Rose Garden and Mary Livingston Ripley Garden (both at Arts and Industry): Posted by: DawnStorm 7/MD (My Page) on Tue, Sep 24, 02 at 11:31 Enid A. Haupt Garden: If you're in DC, be sure to visit the Enid Haupt garden surrounding the Castle Building at the Smithsonian. I stumbled across it yesterday while on my lunchtime walk--wowie! What a place! There was a bit of everything from Malabar spinach, to hostas, to passion vines, to some huge cousin of the tomato with thorns on its leaves. There was also a rose section--beautiful! Posted by: meilie z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 18:55 If you're walking by the Washington Monument/Vietnam Memorial area you should enjoy the small lake/pond on Constitution Avenue that harbors a family of waterfowl. You can proceed to the Smithsonian's museums on the Mall from there. There's a nice rose garden that you can view when in bloom (from afar, no gate entry) behind the Executive Building by the Ellipse. Also view the old specimen trees that have plaques in the area. Some of these are very rare and OLD. The grounds of the White House are not too shabby either, but only to be viewed from the public areas. Posted by: scausey z6/7 MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 15, 02 at 22:56 Bartholdi Park in DC: I also second Bartholdi Park, behind the Botanical Gardens in downtown DC. It has a wonderful fountain (by Bartholdi of Statue of Liberty fame), and a fantastic garden. My DH and I used to eat lunch there several times a week and made friends with the gardeners. They grow a lot of new hybrids and are extremely knowledgeable (and sometimes share). There are quite a few worthwhile gardening programs in the Botanical Gardens - check their schedule. Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 *** Hillwood in downtown DC ? Marjorie Merriweather Post's restored mansion and Japanese gardens. Especially lovely in spring and fall. *** Dunbarton Oaks museum has lovely grounds, great for picnicking. Designed by Beatrix Farrand. Posted by: Msilaine NoVa 7 (My Page) on Thu, Jan 16, 03 at 17:58 US Botanical Gardens in DC: I am originally from Louisiana, so this time of the year I start feeling dried out and in need of moisture so I don't crack. Have you been to the US Botanical Gardens since they reopened it? Well worth the trip, and you can just sit and breathe in warm, moist air scented with green things until you are rehydrated. VIRGINIA:::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 Monticello, Charlottesville, Virginia Mt. Vernon, Alexandria, Virginia Posted by: fiveoaks 7VA (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:12 Monticello: I live close by, and go about every year. Have not made it into the house since 5th grade, lol! Heirlooms! Veggies! Bulbs! Roses! A garden shop! I would give it a "do not miss", especially during garden week. Posted by: Johnnieb Washington, DC (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 19:55 Lewis Ginter in Richmond: I visited Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden several years ago, when they were just a few years old. It's a very nice small botanical garden, and I'd like to go back sometime to see what they've done since then. Posted by: steve_NJ z7A NJ (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 21:33 Lewis Ginter in Richmond: As of April, 2002, Lewis Ginter Gardens had expanded the plantings and things are maturing. Posted by: LakeAnnaRose z7VA (My Page) on Fri, Jan 17, 03 at 10:01 Maymont House and Gardens, Richmond, VA: If you go to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, VA, you should also visit Maymont House and Gardens. Very enjoyable way to spend the day. You probably would want to wait for warmer weather though :) Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 *** Don't forget Green Springs Garden Park off Little River Turnpike in Alexandria VA. Another historic mansion with restored grounds and interesting plant combinations; excellent plant sales spring and fall. ** Agecroft in Richmond, a Tudor mansion brought over from England brick-by-brick a hundred years ago or so; not only do they have great historical gardens, but they teach seminars in historical gardening and herbcraft. Lewis Ginter Gardens: in Richmond: have never been, but I hear that their Italian Renaissance water gardens are not to be missed. Anyone actually seen the place? **** Monticello: I went down to Charlottesville last October for a Thursday-night stay in a local B&B, then spent Friday at Monticello. It was definitely the way to go, and the place was not near as crowded as on weekends. The gardeners were very friendly once they realized I had a clue, and graciously allowed me to harvest a small number of seeds to take home. Twinleaf, the resident historical-plant nursery, sells period seeds, gardening implements and plants, but they are far from cheap. Be sure to have dinner at Duley's, a local gourmet inn where we had the most wonderful lavender creme brulee... PENNSYLVANIA:::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: CarrieB z6b/7a Phila. (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 16:20 ** Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve - New Hope, PA, a *** if you're particularly into natives/woodland gardening). Check with the preserve before visiting for what is in bloom. Posted by: HollyK Zone 6B, PA (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 20:28 Longwood: DEFINITELY Longwood Gardens! You'll think you're in Europe when you're in their conservatory, and the outdoor spaces are phenomenal. Well worth the $10 or $12 admission fee, and a great way to spend an entire day. Chanticleer: We recently discovered Chanticleer, in Wayne, PA (just a little northwest of Philadelphia, right off the PA Turnpike). It's a small (30 acres?) garden on an old estate, very hilly, and contains a house (open to tour occasionally) with gorgeous landscaping and pool/fountains, woodland gardens, a huge pond full of lotus, a "ruin" garden built on the base of an old stone home, veggies, annuals, grasses, perennials. It is truly a great way to spend about 2-3 hours, and they encourage you to walk on the grass and sit on the lawn furniture! Posted by: Wolfe15136 z6 PA (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 9:40 *** Hershey Gardens - Hershey PA. Especially the first week in June for the roses. Posted by: bluebird70 z5 PA (My Page) on Thu, Sep 19, 02 at 10:14 Pennsbury Manor: The herb gardens of Pennsbury Manor (home of William Penn)! These are amazing all summer and a lot of work is put into them. I saw them as a child and have never forgotten them. Reasonable prices too (for entrance). Posted by: jenny_in_SE_PA 6b/7a Sunset 32 (My Page) on Thu, Sep 19, 02 at 15:09 In Philadelphia - *Bartram's Gardens *PA Horticultural Center *Japanese Tea House *Azalea Gardens by the Art Museum NEW JERSEY::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: steve_NJ z7A NJ (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 22:54 ** Morris Arboretum in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. Good collection of trees. Also some shrubs and perennials. NEW YORK::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: windchime z6a NJ (My Page) on Sat, Sep 21, 02 at 12:28 *** NY Botanical Gardens. As an added bonus, the Bronx Zoo is right next door. ** Skylands Manor, Ringwood, NJ. And a smaller place with historical structures and hiking trails is Ringwood Manor. Both of these places have "nice" gardens (Skylands is much nicer.) But they are great places to relax for a day, have a picnic (although, technically, I think food is prohibited in Skylands) and walk around enjoying nature. If you can only go to one, make it Skylands, which is much bigger, and has more extensive gardens. Posted by: adisim Brooklyn, NY (My Page) on Fri, Jan 24, 03 at 3:10 Old Westbury Gardens on Long Island The Conservatory Garden in Central Park Innisfree The Brooklyn Botanic Garden esp. during Cherry Blossom and Daffodil time. Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 Beatrix Farrand Garden: at Bellefield NY doesn't have a web site, but here's what I know. I got this from another site that is an Inn. "Adjacent to FDR Home Library on Route 9, Hyde Park, NY (845-229-9115) The formal gardens and 'wild' garden here were originally designed by the well regarded landscape gardener Beatrix Farrand in 1912, and are believed to be the only surviving example of one of her early residential estate projects; derivative and indicative of both American colonial and formal European gardens and landscapes. The gardens at Bellefield are open year-round, from dawn to dusk." Innisfree, Millbrook, NY: "Innisfree, 2 miles east of Taconic Parkway, on Tyrrel Road, Millbrook, NY (845-677-8000) Innisfree is a realm unto itself, featuring exquisite landscapes and views which comprise a divergent series of 3-dimensional compositions, with traditional oriental influences - landscape elements structured in such a way as to form a natural frame (as in 'teacup' gardens), which inherently draws or focuses the attention on a specific aspect of the intended vignette. Open to the public May thru October (closed Monday and Tuesday, except on holidays); 10am - 4pm. Admission: $2 on weekdays Wed-Fri; $3 on weekends Sat/Sun." Springside, Poughkeepsie, NY: "Springside Landscape Restoration off Route 9 (west of Academy Street exit), Poughkeepsie, NY (845-454-2060) Springside was originally the summer home estate of Matthew Vassar - the founder of Vassar College. Although it is not yet fully restored, Springside is nonetheless the only surviving documented example of the handiwork of Andrew Jackson Downing - generally considered to have been one of the most influential landscape architects in America. Open year-round, every day, dawn to dusk." Stonecrop Gardens, Cold Sping, NY: "Stonecrop Gardens located at 81 Stonecrop Lane (off Rte. 301), in Cold Spring, NY (845-265-2000) Imaginative landscaping and lovely display gardens in a mountainside setting which comprises 9 acres of planted tiers, perrenial beds, water gardens, stone beds, a cliff rock garden, serene views and vignettes, and even a more traditional cloistered English style flower garden, an alpine house, and a conservatory. Open to the public April thru October on specific days, and by appointment(10am-4pm); on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; admission: $5." ***** Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center in Garrison, N.Y: a fantastic 75 acre naturalistic garden. Posted by equestrian z5 NY (My Page) on Sat, May 29, 04 at 4:27 ***** Innisfree should definitely be a five star garden on you FAQ page of mid Atlantic gardens. It is unbelievably better than the "estate" gardens in the region. It has very insubstantial publicity. DELAWARE:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 ***** Winterthur: Hasn't anyone been to Winterthur in Delaware? What a wonderful place to refresh your soul and view 60 acres of naturalistic gardens and views. There's a tram with narration one can take or just stroll the grounds. Well worth an overnight stay. The tour of the mansion was extremely interesting as well.

I have 1 last idea-Primocane Blackberries. Although you won't get blackberries as early, this is probably the cheapest way to go. All you have to do is mow the plants down right after they go dormant. Then the mulch would do. This is probably the most budget-friendly way, because blackberries can proliferate and clone themselves at lightning speeds, and it takes 3-4 years to get well established . With my experience, most blackberries can tolerate temps down to -5 degrees Farenheit, but I don't know your growing conditions, so maybe try a small experiment with the primocanes on the side. I tend to sway towards low-maintenance as much as possible