Summer Gardening

From the McDonald Garden Center Blog

Exploring Hibiscus: The Origins and Differences Between Tropical and Perennial Types

It’s summer! Which means it’s time to dive into the world of hibiscus. These gorgeous, eye-catching flowers are not just a plant you can see on your Hawaiian vacation, but a  fantastic addition to any garden. This blog will give you the lowdown on where these plants come from, what makes them different, and how to care for them. Let’s get started!

Everything You Need to Know About Daylilies

It’s officially the season of daylilies! They are not only visually captivating perennials, but also incredibly easy to care for, making them a favorite among both novice and seasoned gardeners. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, nurturing, and growing these delightful plants.

How to Get Rid of Crepe Myrtle Suckers

Crepe myrtles are cherished for their vibrant blooms and elegant structure, adding beauty to gardens and landscapes. However, as much as we adore these trees, they can sometimes produce unwanted growth called “suckers”. If you find yourself grappling with these persistent intruders, fear not! In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to effectively get rid of crepe myrtle suckers and restore the beauty of your tree.  

Summer Houseplant Highlights

The sun-drenched days of summer are here, and it's the perfect time to adorn your living space with lush and vibrant houseplants that thrive in the warm and sunny conditions. In this blog, we'll delve into some of our top summer houseplant highlights, featuring a range of stunning plants that are sure to turn your home into the summer jungle you want it to be.   1. Tiger Stripe Fern

From Bud to Bloom: Expert Tips for Extending and Enhancing Crepe Myrtles’ Blossoms

If you're a crepe myrtle enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the beauty in them, you may have recognized the mesmerizing charm of crepe myrtles. These stunning flowering trees, with their delicate crepe-paper-like blossoms, add a touch of magic to any landscape. But wouldn't it be wonderful if we could make their blooming spectacle last as long as possible and intensify their floral fireworks? Well, my fellow gardeners, fret not!

Blooming through the Heat: Essential Tips for Summer Plant Care

Summer is here, and so is the scorching sun! While you might be planning beach trips and ice cream indulgences, spare a thought for your leafy companions that bear the brunt of the summer heat. Just like us, plants need a little extra care during this season to stay healthy and vibrant. So, grab your watering can, put on your gardening hat, and let's dive into some essential tips for summer plant care.

Welcome to the Tropics - What’s New in Stock

New plants are arriving every day here at the garden center and we have an exciting selection of vibrant tropicals that will have you thinking of warm, sunny days and a gorgeous beach ahead. Join us as we explore the highlights of our latest arrivals and discover the wonders they can bring to your outdoor space.   Canna Lilies

5 Best Ways to Keep Your Garden Happy In the Heat

During the hottest times of the year, it is sometimes difficult to keep your garden happy and healthy. Extra high temperatures can cause stress on your plants, which can lead to other problems, like pests and disease. To avoid these issues, your plants just need a little more TLC in the summer, and we are here to help make that happen.  5. Keep an Eye Out for Pests and Disease

3 Summer Garden Cocktails to Beat the Heat

Now that the weather is heating up, it’s time to use that garden you planted this past spring. The herbs, berries, and other fruits that you are growing are not only great to combine in a summer salad or dessert, they are also perfect for summer garden-inspired cocktails. Make sitting out on the porch even more relaxing with a cold glass of your garden’s most tasty and refreshing rewards. We have put together 3 of our favorite cocktails from some of Hampton Road’s most popular plants of the season.  

The Top 10 Sunsational Plants of the Summer

When the weather is warm and bright, it’s always a great time to get out and enjoy your garden. You may notice some of your early spring blooms are now fading and it’s time for a refresh! We have put together a list of some of our top favorite plants to give you that summer color you are just dreaming of.    10. Black-Eyed Susan