Callery Pear Trees

(Pyrus calleryana) Varieties like Bradford and Chanticleer have been promoted for years as fast-growing spring blooming trees. The one in our front yard here at Back Home had to be one of the biggest in the state of Virginia before we finally took it down. It had a circumference of 6 ft. or more at its base. So what’s all the uproar about these trees now?

First, they are brittle and famous for splitting (and they’re ugly after that). Second, genetic testing has revealed that when a Bradford hybridizes with other cultivars, an invasive wild hybrid with beautiful blooms results. This hybrid has been taking over the countryside. It sets fruit and it has thorns. Once they become established, they’re almost impossible to remove.

Our advice? Find a reputable nursery to recommend to you some spring blooming specimens. I’m partial to redbuds, but there are many more.

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Oh Chamomile!

We have lots – and we mean LOTS – of chamomile here at the greenhouse, because we know how great this stuff is! Did you know that chamomile tea has been shown to lower blood sugar in people with diabetes, slow and prevent osteoporosis, reduce inflammation, and help folks sleep?

To make tea with fresh flowers, you’ll need 3-4 tbsps of fresh chamomile flowers, a fresh sprig of mint, 8 ounces of boiling water and a fine mesh strainer. Pour the boiling water over your flowers and mint and allow to steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Strain your tea into a cup and enjoy!

Stop by the greenhouse and pick some beautiful (and delicious) chamomile today! Visit our blog for more gardening tidbits!

Rusty Antique Chic

You all know how we love our unique planters here at the greenhouse, and boy, did we find some treasures to use this year! From vintage toolboxes to old toy trucks, we’ll be creating some new and exciting container plants this year. Some will be available for sell so you can either pick one up or use ours as inspiration to create your own!

Strings N Things

We have always loved pearl string succulents and have decided to expand our selection. NEW varieties include hearts, dolphins, bananas, buttons, and ruby necklace. We’ll even have one called Burrito – aka “burros tail”. You’ll know why when you see it.

String succulents have grown in popularity over the years likely due to their low-maintenance care requirements and their flexibility. You can group them with other vertical succulent varieties or hang them in little wall pockets. The options are endless. Come check them out!

Pot It Like It’s Hot!

The greenhouse is opening early this spring! We’re kicking off the season with a focus on houseplant TLC. Early spring is the best time to repot houseplants as it gives them the nutrients they will need for the beginning of their growth season. Depending on their growth activity, plants typically need to be repotted every 12 to 18 months. Some slow growers can call the same pot home for years and just require soil replenishment.

Bring your plants to the greenhouse and we can repot them for you with a minimal fee for soil and time. You can either bring your own pot or choose from the variety we have here!