By tackling my white fly population with All Season's Oil, before it got out of hand, I have succeeded in avoiding a more toxic alternative. The leaves on my green beans are a little ugly looking from the previous damage and the mild effects of the oil. It's alright though, because new leaves are beginning to emerge. Read Full Story
Now that Fay has had her say, a softer voice can be heard. From amongst the leggy annuals and ever-spreading perennials comes the faint whisper of Fall. I heard it the first time as talk of a "back to school" sale came from my car radio. I caught a whiff of it that same week as I eyed my mature pecan tree that had just been struck by lightning. The bark had been blown off to reveal an almost elegant trailing scar. Would the tree drop its bounty of tasty nuts or its very branches come Autumn... Read Full Story
In the right corner, wearing no trunks, The Whitefly Family. In the left corner, also wearing no trunks, AllSeasons Spray Oil. The match began in poor weather, but between showers, I sprayed all of the undersides of my plants. The population has not gotten out of control yet. Plants seem to be doing alright. Read Full Story
My husband and I have a little saying whenever one of us is doing something that is likely not going to turn out well. It goes something like this, "I'm just trying something, okay?" Whatever the silly act might be, uttering this excuse prevents any further ridicule. It's like saying, "Hey, I need to learn this for myself." If we carry this to the garden, where most everything is trial and error, this trying can teach more than any book or garden show. We remember how it felt to have dirt on... Read Full Story
Uggggh. Well, it is no secret that business slows down at a retail garden center during unpleasant weather. While blue skies and sunshine draw one to frolic in the exceptional plant finds Hester & Zipperer has to offer, the rain and delightful humidity have been keeping customers away. I suppose people have been sipping the last bit refreshment from the big cup that is Summer vacation. Education Pays Off In Organic Sales We are pleased to say that those of you who braved the weather have... Read Full Story
Your Garden's Balancing Act This Saturday's free class will deal with the delicate balance of your garden's plants, insects, and other environmental factors. This class will be taught by Alex! Class begins at 10:00 A.M. at the Wilmington Island location. Remember, as always, students will receive a discount associated with the classes topic! Read Full Story
You've Seen Them Before... Many of you have spun a cool display of Papyrus greeting cards at locations across town. You may not have committed the brand name to memory, but you likely remember the cards. Now, you don't have to leave the island for these babies. Whether you are looking to reconnect with an old friend, neighbor, relative, or even your partner, these cards are perfect. Hester & Zipperer, on Wilmington Island, has also started carrying a small selection of gift bags and tissue... Read Full Story
Fighting Bugs With Bugs The idea of beneficial insects is becoming ever so popular. This Saturday's Free Class will offer plant combination ideas for attracting them to your container garden. Class begins at 10:00 A.M. at our Wilmington Island location. Beneficial Insect Plants Read Full Story
People usually do well at what they enjoy. For example, if you enjoy knitting, you will most likely become a better knitter over time. If you enjoy drinking, chances are you will become better at making cocktails over time. It really isn't rocket science. So, it is no wonder that people stink at reading chemical labels. Trying to decipher the tiny print, mixing instructions, and extensive list of cautions is as tedious as Ben Stein telling a bed time story! By the time the label is read... Read Full Story
