The members of the Sasqua Garden club have just about the greenest thumbs around. Judy Ostrow profiled the club in her article, “Dig It,” in Fairfield Living's May/June issue. The club members offered us so many great tips, we couldn't fit them all in the magazine—but didn't want you to miss out! So here are some bonus ideas for a green, healthy backyard oasis.
Get Creative
"When transporting potted plants, cut an X in the center of the bottom of a sturdy cardboard box; push the pot through the hole. This will prevent the leaves and stems from being crushed by other pots or the side of the car." –Jane Cary
"Cayenne pepper sprinkled around bulbs will deter rodents." –Kate Schmidt
"Planting bulbs among perennials such as Hosta works well. As the bulb foliage dies back, Hosta is starting to emerge, and the yellowing bulb foliage is less noticeable." –Kate Schmidt
Poeny Power
"You can cut peonies and keep them for arranging for as long as a week. Cut the stems (long enough so you can make a new cut when you arrange them) when the buds are large enough that they show the flower color; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and put them in the refrigerator. When ready to use, unwrap and put in lukewarm water up to the neck of the flower for twenty-four hours. The buds should open beautifully." –Jane Cary
"For big, strong peony flowers, debud stems so there is just one bud per stem. The plant will then concentrate on making the single flower larger." –Jane Cary
For more insiders tips pick up the May/June 2012 issue on stands now!