As spring approaches, gardening enthusiasts are being encouraged to explore a variety of plants that can enhance their outdoor spaces. This week offers a unique opportunity to consider options such as woodland strawberries, tomatoes, and sunflowers. Each of these plants not only adds beauty but also provides flavorful edibles for the home.
Discover Woodland Strawberries
Woodland strawberries, known scientifically as Fragaria vesca, thrive in moist, sunny environments, although they can tolerate some shade. These strawberries are smaller than their commercial counterparts but are renowned for their intense flavor. The plant spreads easily through both rhizomes and stolons, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. However, it’s important to note that the fruit is highly perishable and should be consumed shortly after picking to enjoy its full taste.
Tomatomania at Roger’s Gardens
From February 27 to March 8, Roger’s Gardens in Corona Del Mar will host the annual event known as Tomatomania. This year’s event will feature over 250 tomato varieties and more than 100 pepper varieties for sale. Among the highlights is the Sart Roloise, a Belgian beefsteak tomato that excels in Southern California’s climate. Its flavor profile—characterized by a low-acid blend of honey-like sweetness with hints of pineapple—makes it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to withstand the heat of summer.
Gardeners often combine tomatoes with herbs like basil for a synergistic effect. The Basil Treviso variety has gained recognition from the National Garden Bureau for its resistance to flowering in hot weather, which can diminish flavor. This basil not only enhances the taste of tomato dishes but also helps to conserve soil moisture and deter pests such as whiteflies and aphids.
Sunflowers for Year-Round Bloom
The National Garden Bureau has named the Sunfinity Yellow-Red Bicolor sunflower as this year’s outstanding annual flower. Unlike typical sunflowers, this variety continues to bloom from spring through fall, provided that gardeners trim back faded flowers to the first leaf beneath. With a manageable height of four feet, it is well-suited for container gardening. Moreover, its sterile flowers reduce pollen allergies, making it a great option for those sensitive to allergens while still attracting pollinators with its nectar.
For those looking to add a touch of greenery indoors, consider the all-in-one water garden available at uniquegardener.com. This small glass jar, designed for desks or dining tables, contains water jade seeds (Crassula helmsii) that sprout readily when covered with water. The lid features small LED lights, adding a modern touch to any indoor space.
As you plan your gardening activities this week, these plants offer a blend of beauty and utility, ensuring a vibrant and fruitful garden season ahead.
