Foxglove, also known as digitalis, are gorgeous woodland plants that attract birds, bees and hummingbirds to the garden while also being deer and rabbit resistant. These showy plants feature tall stalks of distinctive bell shaped flowers in late spring to mid summer. Digitalis makes a wonderful addition to any garden by adding eye-catching height and [...]
We are all familiar with the classic Black-eyed Susan look featuring yellow ray flowers around a dark brown or black center cone, but we may not be aware of the many types of Black-eyed Susan plants available. Black-eyed Susan plants come in many different varieties including upright growers and vines and ranging from annuals to [...]
The 4th of July is just around the corner. Here at Hook’s we have red, white and blue planters ready to help decorate for Independence Day celebrations. We will be closed tomorrow to spend time with our families, so be sure to stop by the greenhouse today for these quick and easy patriotic centerpieces!
Hardy Hibiscus (Rose Mallow) has an amazing tropical look but is hardy to zone 4. Hibiscus plants have breathtaking 12-18 inch blooms making them a striking addition to any garden. This easy maintenance plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and many other pollinators while deer typically leave it alone. These awesome perennials survive in wet soil and [...]
Russian Sage, produces lacy lavender blue flowers from mid summer all the way through mid fall. The delicate blooms of Russian Sage make great cut or dried flowers. In spite of its delicate appearance, Russian Sage is hardy, drought tolerant and deer resistant. Russian Sage also features fragrant foliage and attracts hummingbirds. Russian Sage is [...]
Basil is one of the most widely used herbs and is found in cuisines worldwide. It is commonly associated with Italian cooking and pairs well with both garlic and tomatoes. On top of its appeal as a culinary herb basil is aesthetically appealing and has a fabulous aroma. The name basil comes from the Greek [...]
Potpourris and sachets make wonderful gifts and can fill a room with amazing fragrance. There are three different types of potpourris or sachets, open potpourris and simmering potpourris. Sachets are an aromatic combination of dried herbs and flowers contained within a small pillow or cheesecloth bit typically placed in a drawer for fragrance. Potpourris are [...]
Another relaxing way to enjoy the products of your herb garden is an herbal bath. Herbal baths can help soothe sore muscles, ease anxiety, and keep your skin healthy. The different herbs and ingredients added to the bath determine its effects. For example, chamomile helps soothe skin irritations and calm emotions while lavender blossoms are [...]
Lemon Verbena Herbal teas are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Herbal teas have no caffeine in them because black tea from the plant Camella sinensis, is not added in the blend. There are over 3,000 varieties of this one plant that give rise to the many types of tea seen in stores today. [...]
Herbs are meant to be used. Here’s a quick guide for harvesting, drying and storing herbs from your garden. Whichever method you choose to use be sure to label the dried or frozen final product for future use. Tips for Harvesting Herbs: Ideally aim to harvest herbs on a sunny day after the dew is [...]
Introduction to Fruit Preserves Fruit preserves are a fabulous way to enjoy the summer flavors year round. A bit of jelly on toast or a biscuit is a great start to the day or can be a sweet treat to be enjoyed at anytime. These delicious treats are easy to make and make for fun [...]
It is National Pollinator Week! This week celebrates the ecosystem services provided by all pollinators including butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, bats, beetles, moths, small mammals, flies and wasps. Pollinator’s perform a vital role in flowering plant reproduction and are necessary for the production of fruits and vegetables in the garden! Monarch butterflies are an iconic migrating [...]
When you think about pollinators the organisms that come to mind are bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. These are the pollinator poster children. In reality, many other organisms assist in pollination and seed dispersal. These unusual pollinators include other invertebrates such as flies, slugs, moths, and beetles. Even some of the less desirable insects such as [...]
Borage, also known as starflower, is a fantastic companion to legumes, spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, squash, and strawberries. Plant borage in a veggie garden as a natural pesticide free way to help keep pests away from these crops. Borage is a heavy producer of pollen, so it attracts bees, this helps increase pollination of the nearby [...]
Pollinators are an important part of any garden as they play a critical role in the reproduction of the vast majority of flowering plants. Without these helpful little critters many plants would be unsuccessful in producing fruits and seeds for the next generation of plants. Building a pollinator friendly garden can help all of your [...]