Markets provide growing appeal

There's still time to indulge in fresh local produce

Can this really be the end of the growing season? For herbaceous perennials and annuals, yes. Fresh produce, though, is still available at some of the farmers markets that remain open through to the end of October. As you prepare to . . .

Posted: 2011-10-01

Design for holiday warmth

It’s all about the things you love, says Shelmerdine owner Bent

Discovering your personal style, whether for garden design, home décor or fashion, often requires visual inspiration. “Not everyone has a strong sense of style, ” says Nicole Bent, president and owner of Shelmerdine Garden Centre, located at 7800 Roblin Blvd. . . .

Posted: 2024-11-23

Striking powers of observation

Renowned photographer Dennis Fast captures beauty in our own backyard

Dennis Fast is an internationally recognized wildlife and nature photographer. His compelling photographs of landscapes and wildlife species from many different places around the world show a unique recognition of and appreciation for all of nature. Fast’s work has been . . .

Posted: 2022-10-29

SOLUTIONS: Snakes will make bad cats scat

QUESTION: I sure hope you can help me. I am having an awful problem with cats in my flower bed. I have tried everything: pepper, mothballs, shaved soap, cayenne pepper, egg shells, fine chicken wire under the earth, rhubarb leaves . . .

Posted: 2009-06-21

Time to prune (most of) your hydrangeas

Start dreaming about these thrilling new varieties

Where do you keep your pruning shears? It’s time to fetch them. April is a perfect time to prune most varieties of hydrangea shrubs. The moment you grip the handles of your pruning shears and begin shaping your hydrangea shrubs . . .

Posted: 2020-04-11

Oh, the weather outside is…

… perfect for picking up some books on gardening

Whether you have a large garden or grow a few plants on a patio or windowsill, your interest in plants and nature opens the door to a world of new ideas and knowledge. Here are my recommendations for books . . .

Posted: 2024-12-14

Manitoba winemaking not an easy task

Research and development in North Dakota could improve production in colder climates

The idea that Manitoba wine and grape production might someday match that of the two primary cold climate wine regions in Canada — the Okanagan Valley in southern British Columbia and the Niagara region in southern Ontario — may seem . . .

Posted: 2017-08-05

All hydrangeas, all the time

Luscious new varieties to choose from -- but hurry before they're gone

How do you select just one hydrangea cultivar when there is an annual smorgasbord of luscious, new varieties that instantly slay you with their spectacular beauty? In a perverse sort of way, this annual dilemma is made easier thanks to . . .

Posted: 2020-06-27

Going against the grain

Manitoba growers create farm-to-table initiative with winter food bundle

A new collaborative farm-to-fork initiative that is being launched this month brings a tantalizing mix of farm-grown ingredients to your pantry and table. Similar to a vegetable CSA (community supported agriculture) box but without the vegetables, consumers will be able to . . .

Posted: 2019-01-05

It's amaryllis season

While outdoor plants go dormant, these beautiful flowers bloom indoors just in time for Christmas

Now that Thanksgiving’s over, amaryllis bulb kits are making their way onto store shelves. Packaged in pretty, glossy boxes with magnified images of gorgeous blooms, the kits contain everything you need for forcing flower bulbs indoors in time for Christmas . . .

Posted: 2016-10-15