(Here’s a complete assortment of great weigela shrubs.) When I first moved to my current home some ten years ago, I needed to do a total makeover of the shrub and flower beds in front of my house. The first shrub I planted was a Wine and Roses Weigela. It was one of the best gardening decisions this new gardener has made. I planted the weigela next to the steps leading up to my front door. From the second season...

Seeds Just looking at a seed rack may prompt this kind of daydream: You can picture many flowers already in bloom and vegetables and herbs seem to sprout growth right there on the seed rack. This kind of daydreaming can be so pleasant that beginning gardeners are often unprepared to meet problems that may occur later on. Before you rush to the store for seeds, however, look over the warnings and suggestions that follow....

Starting Out You wouldn’t just grab some lumber and nails and start building a home you planned on being in for the rest of your life, without a plan would you? So why would you build a garden without a plan. The first and most critical step is to go out and walk around on your property and take the time to choose a place for your new garden. Remember that this garden will be with you as long as you care for it...