The summer heat arrived
with a vengeance the first of June. With temperatures in the upper
90’s, we all need to consider the best ways to beat the
heat. There is a growing trend to be aware of how to work and
live in sync with nature. Being “green” is easy. This
simply means working in conjunction with our natural surroundings.
By planting a deciduous tree (one which looses leaves each fall)
on the south and/or west side of your house, this will assist
you in creating shade for your home in summer and allow sun to
filter through and warming in the winter. Check out your home
site and start planning now for fall planting.
There are
many plants available which are heat tolerant, allowing you to
save on watering. As a perennial, the ice plant has beautiful
bright flowers and a sedum type foliage.
Ornamental
grasses are very drought tolerant. For annual plantings, portulaca
is a good alternative, displaying multicolor flowers during daylight
hours. Junipers love the full sun in your borders, particularly
the creepers. Knock-out roses provide great color without much
care as well.
Don’t
forget the birds! They love the trees and shrubs, providing shade
as well as bright berries for a food source. Now is a good time
to provide a little extra water for our feathered friends. A bird
bath located a short distance from the house will provide entertainment
as well.
Enjoy outdoor entertaining this summer. In our gift shop, we now
have a great selection of bottled wines from all over the world.
These can be combined with flowers or gourmet snacks for delivery
or to grab on your way home for an evening with special friends.
We have a number of wine accessories as well, making great gifts.
Click on our link to the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce to learn
more about the “Celebration of the Vine” wine festival
scheduled here on our farm, June 28th.
Also of interest in our gift shop, we have garden accents, candles,
flags, Crocs and Oka B stylish sandals. There are many unique
items to brighten the summer days, including silk wreaths and
table centerpieces.
Our landscape
designers are busy with renewed interest in hardscaping for patios
and entertainment areas. We still have openings available for
installation in July. Maybe even the addition of a pond and waterfall
nearby to add tranquility to your evenings.
The florist
department can create a special expression and deliver it to a
dear friend or to your own home. Wedding consultations are available.
Call today to reserve a time to meet with Sheila.
Do you have
the need for a site to entertain a family or class reunion? Maybe
a corporate picnic or church social? We can accommodate! Call
us for more information regarding our Picnic Garden by the pond,
which is the area set for the Wine Festival this June. There is
a bandstand, pavilion, picnic tables and electricity available
in a shaded woodland setting. A $100 deposit will hold your special
date.
