Northeast Gardening: Garden Photos - Part 16, 1 by rcn48

rcn48 wrote:
Louise, gardening in VA is MUCH different than my years in Maine! There are a few plants I miss - like the beautiful Delphiniums I used to grow, just too hot and humid here for them. Good news though, moving to Zone 6 from a very cold Zone 4 there's so much more I CAN grow :))

RC, re: the sooty mold, this is the second time in about 5 years we've had the problem. First time there wasn't as much planted under the canopy of the birch tree but we've expanded the gardens in that area and unfortunately all the bright variegated Hostas fall under the canopy and they're pretty disgusting this year. Since the birch is huge it's almost impossible to hit it with a powerful wash of the hose to knock the aphids off which was recommended. We're going to try the product, Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Insect Control, see if we can prevent this from happening next year. I searched for your beautiful Acer - FF has it but I may have to wait until next year - about hit my "limit" for this year, if there is such a thing :)

Patti, you won't be disappointed with Forest Pansy. I love the tree, but what I really love is watching the shiny new leaves emerge.