All the Dirt on Gardening

Gardens and spring combine make unbeatable attractions for plant lovers and travelers. As your spring and summer travel plans come up, consult this list and other internet resources and add one or more gardens, zoos and festivals to your itinerary. Most events are more than walks through beautiful gardens – though that alone would be worth the stop for many of us. Regional, school, city and community events include plant sales, fun-runs, car shows, food vendors, family activities, parades and concerts. Clip and save the list so you can call ahead or click through to the websites to find out more. Have an event we should know about? Email mollyday1@gmail.com Feb 28-Apr12   Dallas TX Dallas Blooms Dallas Arboretum www.dallasarboretum.org 214.515.6615 March 13-14 Semmes AL Annual Mary G. Montgomery High School Azalea Festival http://semmeschamber.org/azaleafestival.php 251.649.1200 Mar 16 – 20 Muskogee OK Jr. Master Gardener Day at Papilion, Honor ...

Daffodil planting season is here and it is time to shop the stores or place your mail order for daffodil bulbs to plant in October and November. The American Daffodil Society website ( www.daffodilusa.org ) has tips for successful bulb selection. 1) Order early - This is not a marketing gimmick. Early orders generally get the pick of the crop. Your chances are better of getting exactly what you order with no surprises. 2) Read the Fine Print - Check the guarantee. Terms vary widely. Will they replace or refund in case of problems. Are the bulbs guaranteed true to name? 3) Compare Prices - Prices are not the same. Our opinion is that you do get what you pay for. Cheap bulbs are generally cheap for a reason. Smaller bulbs generally give smaller and fewer flowers. If it seems too good to be true, it may well be! 4) Be Aware - Some general bulb merchants routinely change bulb names and some may even substitute varieties without your knowledge. We can't control it ...