Great Garden Bones

Anyone ever mention that you have great "facial bone structure?" It may seem like an off-handed "compliment" but actually, great facial bones are a true asset and enhance your best features.

Good "garden bones" defines the structure -- the contours and features in any landscape. By starting with a great foundational plant- and one that complements broadleaf evergreens- you can add structural interest, define your boundaries, and draw attention with magnificent color.

Mountain Laurels are wonderful plants that provide architectural structure and terrific color.

Keep an eye out this fall and early 2011 for a brand new easy-care mountain laurel, Kalmia latifolia 'Firecracker' from Briggs Nursery (http://www.briggsnursery.com/). It produces red-colored buds that open to white and then to light pink, and will give you plenty of "boom with blooms!" Talk about the fireworks!

Reaching a mature height of 3' X 2' in 10 years, this compact plant explodes with color, creating a spectacular contrast of red and white flowers that bloom simultaneously.

Kalmia 'Firecracker' is resistant to leaf spot and blooms late spring to early summer and is best in full sun and in a cool, moist, well-drained acidic soil. Since mountain laurel are "off-limits' to deer, it's ideal for woodland settings. Enjoy! Happy holidays, everyone. - Lynne