Shamrocks, otherwise also known as Oxalis, have symbolized many things throughout history. Legend has it that the leaves of the four-leaf clover symbolize hope, faith and love, and God added another leaf for luck. The shamrock has a rich history in Ireland, including religious and political symbolism. An icon of Irish pride and culture, the shamrock is the most recognized symbol of the Irish, especially on St. Patrick's Day.
Cole crops are a group of cool season vegetables that belong to the mustard (Brassica) family and are all descendants of wild cabbage. As a group, these plants grow better in cool weather. Some people think that the word “cole” is a variant of the word “cold” and may even refer to these plants as cold crops. Many of the vegetables in this group allow you to eat all or a portion of the stem (the word “cole” is a variation of a Latin word that means stem). Cole crops include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard and collards.
Pothos, philodendrons, anthuriums, peace lilies, and zz plants are all members of the Araceae family (aka the Arum family), also known as “aroids.” No other group of plants can compare to the extravagant and exotic foliage exhibited by Araceae. Aroids have become a staple in the houseplant market for the relative ease of care and their ability to tolerate both bright and low light conditions. Here’s what you’ll need to know about these special plants and how to care for them.
AROID CHARACTERISTICS
As the frost begins to melt and the days become warmer and longer, spring fever begins to set in. It won’t be long until we’ll be able to go outside and dig in dirt once again! If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to begin thinking about and prepping for your spring garden. Whether you're interested in edible gardening, seed starting, or just love to grow flowers, we’re here to help. We've been growing Hampton Roads gardeners for 75 years and our number one goal has always been one thing -- to make you a success in the garden.
When it came to understanding how to excel in all things gardening, renowned horticulturist Asa Sims clearly got the memo. In 1908 he arrived in the Tidewater area, a place he would call home for over six decades. Sims aspired to become a painter. Instead, the teenager enrolled in agriculture classes at Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute (now known as Hampton University.) A position at the university greenhouse would last three decades with Sims rising to the role of General Manager.