CAREFREE PLANTS

Tucked in an out of the way spot next to our tool shed we have a small bed of sedums.  In the fall, the showstopper is Sedum telephium 'Autumn Joy' (syn. Hylotelephium 'Herbstfreude').  Given a good start in well-drained soil and full sun, this plant has thrived with neglect.  If you grow it in your own garden, you may pinch the new growth back by half in the late spring for a more compact plant.  This is a plant that is on any list for creating a pollinator garden.  The masses of tiny, star-shaped flowers start out a pale pink, turning to a rose color, then finally for winter a russet brown.  If left standing, it creates a nice winter interest focal point.   In the early spring, cut back the dead foliage to make way for the new growth starting from the base.

Click here for more information:  AUTUMN JOY

Photo by C. Taylor

FALL GARDENING IN PITT COUNTY

The Fall Edition of the Extension Gardener is ready for you.  Click here:
EXTENSION GARDENER
 to read current gardening articles related to our growing conditions in Pitt County.  Some of the topics covered are:

• Raised-bed gardening
• Leafy greens for fall
• Nematodes
• Preparing lawns for cooler weather
• Spooktacular Plants
• Chalkbark maple
• Butterhead and leaf lettuces
• Soil testing for sustainable nutrient management

MUSCADINE HARVEST

9 1/2 pounds of muscadine grapes (and a few figs) were delivered to the Eastern Carolina Food Bank this week.  All were from our Small Fruit Garden at the Arboretum.

Varieties:  Carlos, Nesbit, and Hunt

Photos by J. Keville

FIELD TRIP FOR MASTER GARDENERS

A group of Master Gardeners and Extension Agent Eric recently drove to Goldsboro to see the Small Farm Unit at the Cherry Research Farm.  They picked up tips on composting, season extenders, cover crops, and berries.  Of great interest to many was some of the equipment used.  The Master Gardeners are always looking for was to improve the Arboretum and their own gardens!  Thanks Ann H. for organizing this.

POMEGRANATES

 The pomegranate tree (Punica granatum) growing in our Small Fruit Garden has begun to bear fruit.  In addition to having edible fruit, we can also enjoy it's beautiful orange red flowers.  Click here for more info about the history and some growing tips: POMEGRANATES