We have organized the Van Bloem Gardens frequently asked questions into common categories. Click on any of the following links to see the related questions and corresponding answers. If you still have questions, please contact us.
I have ants all over the buds of my peonies. What should I do?
Nothing. The ants are only on the buds to collect sugars excreted by tiny nectaries on the surface of the petals. While they need not be present for the buds to open properly, they won't hurt your peonies either.
I've always enjoyed daylilies, but they don't provide much color until summer. Can I interplant with something that will provide some spring interest?
Daffodils and daylilies are the perfect companions in the perennial garden. Both require full sun to bloom to their full potential.The daffodils emerge and bloom early while the daylilies are still waking from their winter rest. As the daffodil foliage matures and yellows in preparation for summer dormancy, the daylilies grow rapidly, obscuring the browning daffodil leaves. The daylilies also use up soil moisture through the summer months and help to keep the daffodil bulbs from being waterlogged.
What is the best time of day to cut flowers?
For indoor arrangements, flowers should be cut during the morning or evening. The heat of the mid-day may prove to be exhausting for the flowers and they will fade sooner.
Are there any flowering perennials that are suitable for potting in containers?
Most annual and perennial flowers adapt to growing in containers, and some veggies will grow in containers, as well. When choosing containers, make sure they have adequate drainage holes in the bottoms, and use potting mix rather than garden soil. Potting mixes contain organic material, sand, and perlite or vermiculite, which makes them light, fast-draining and moisture retentive. The plants you choose should be specific to the environment.
Should I trim off the dead flowers and their stems on my hostas and peonies and other perennials?
"Deadheading" serves two purposes; it keeps plants looking tidy, and it stops seed production which promotes additional leaf and flower development. You can cut back the spent flowers and their stems anytime after the flowers fade.
What is the 2007 "Perennial of the Year?"
Nepeta x faassenii Walker's Low
How many hours of sunlight a day constitutes full sun, part shade, and full shade?
6 or more hours of direct sun = full sun. 4-6 hours of direct sun=Part shade. Less that 4 hours of direct sun = full shade. As a general guideline, afternoon sun is stronger than morning, so plants that prefer shade typically prefer afternoon shade.
How do I grow spring-flowering bulbs in warm climates?
It's possible to grow spring-flowering bulbs in climates as warm as Zone 9 and Zone 10. However, the blooming season in these zones is much earlier than in cooler zones. Some spring-flowering bulbs recommended for Zone 9 can be planted with no pre-cooling. Others will need a special cold treatment before planting.
