landscaping

 

Black-Eyed Susan

The Black-Eyed Susan, 'Rudbeckia hirta', is the most drought tolerant of all the Rudbeckias. The beautiful 2 to 4 inch daisy like flowers are adorned with orange/yellow petals. Black-Eyed Susans bloom for a long time, at least 60 days. Even though grown as an annual, Black-Eyed Susan is technically a short-lived perennial and may come back for a second or third year. They reseed themselves for "naturalized" wildflower areas. Black-Eyed Susans bloom for about 8 weeks starting around mid summer. Black-Eyed susan have a slight preference for alkaline soils that are well drained. They are short lived and should be treated as an annual. Plant in early spring 3 to 4 weeks before the last average frost date. Black-Eyed Susan is excellent for wildflower patches. They provide good fall color; when many perennial and annual flowers are beginning to fade, the Black-Eyed Susan look great. ... additional information

 

Squash - Winter - Pink Banana The Squash Winter Pink Banana, 'Cucurbita maxima', is an Heirloom introduced in 1893 and common in American Pioneer Gardens. The very smooth velvety skin make it attractive as well as tasty. The Pink Banana squash is also known as Mexican Banana and Plymouth Rock. Plant in the spring, 2 to 4 weeks after the last average frost date. Squash prefers well drained, rich soil with lots of organic matter. They should be harvested when you can't dent the hard skin with your finger.