Daylily Happy Returns image from oakesdaylilies

Daylily Chocolate Candy

Lilies Natascha Roselily  

We plant for you.  What is new this week at Becky's Greenhouse

We got rain last night Sunday May 17th.  We had wind, but no damage.  I decided to leave the wagons outside as I wanted that rain.  But tonight the wagons will be inside the east greenhouse.  The plants that aren’t on wheels will have to stay outside and hope for the best. 
I love the rain when it happens as it brightens up the plants so much more than the water, I use.   Again, stay safe tonight and this is it for a few days. 
 
Australia family and friends high today of 63F(16C) and 100% of rain.  But that will be good to have some rain for them.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
Always adding more things each week.  We got more trees out, and we will inventory them, and post that this week. 
We plant for you. 
This is new for us this year We always plant bulbs as in lilies and daylilies.  We are planting them for this summer’s sales but not getting to them right away I am offering them now as bulbs and coms.  You can plant directly to the ground and watch them grow into the plant. You will get them as bare roots to speak of.  They come out of a very good company Leo Berbee out of Ohio, Very high quality, and large bulbs, or coms.  I have instructions on how to plant them.  This is what my mother would do.  She would order out of a catalog, and then would come like this.  Then she would plant them.  They are perennial, they like sun and they are easy.  This summer you can buy them as plants but for now give this a try planting bulbs or coms depending on the species. 
I have daylily Double Pardon me which is a rebloomer.
Daylily Happy returns rebloomer
Daylily Night Beacon
Daylily Bonanza
Daylily Chocolate Candy
Lily Natascha Rose lily  double blooms
Lily Stargazer Oriental
Lily Ramona Roselily double blooms
Added Elephant ears regular which is a huge bulb.  This will take some time to grow so the best in a pot and then you can take in the house.
Another new for me to grow will be Caladium Wildfire.  Another one that takes some time to grow but worth giving it a try.
From this company we have Asparagus roots.
Give these a try.  We will be planting them later after we get the Memorial Day planters completed. We plant for you. 
 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from freepik.com

What plants can I plant for the pollinators?  Here is some ideas for a pollinator garden?  Have a buzzy time. 

Good afternoon….windy again this afternoon but not as windy as it was on Tuesday.  SO much dirt in the air that the sky was brown.  Today’s sun with cumulus clouds and the wind.  Results from a cold front. High today of 73F(22C). Enjoy and Stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends have told me that is has been a lovely fall for them.  Today May 14 will be 67F9(19C)  Enjoy, Stay safe.
 
How to Create a Pollinator Garden: Easy Steps and Best Plants for Beginners Written By:  Lauren Landers
You don’t need experience—or a big yard—to create a pollinator garden. Just a few well-chosen plants, a bit of know-how, and a quick and easy DIY project or two can transform your garden into a pollinator paradise that’s irresistible to bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and more.
Fast Facts
A true pollinator garden is more than flowers; it prioritizes mainly native plants that actually feed local pollinators—a mix of nectar- and pollen-rich blooms. It also provides continuous, season-long food and safe shelter.
Beyond bees and butterflies, many other insects pollinate plants, including beetles, moths, wasps, and ants.
Honeybees live in hives, but they’re actually native to Europe. Most native North American bees are solitary and live in the ground, plant stems, or old leaf litter.
A single bumblebee can pollinate around 6,000 flowers each day!
Close-up of monarch butterfly perched on purple flower.
Monarchs flock to purple flowers rich in nectar, turning an ordinary front garden into a migration stopover. Credit: ZHMURCHAK
What Is a Pollinator Garden?
Pollinator gardens are spaces specifically designed to meet the needs and preferences of pollinators. These spaces can vary in size and design, but they typically include a variety of food and sheltering plants that pollinators love and may also offer other pollinator resources, such as water. Pollinator gardens are also generally kept free of pesticides to ensure that any pollinators that visit stay safe.
While pollinator gardens have been growing in popularity for years, they are becoming increasingly more important for pollinator survival. Today, pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and other stressors. But by offering food, shelter, and nesting sites, pollinator gardens can help to counteract habitat fragmentation and serve as waystations for migrating monarch butterflies and hummingbirds.
If you’re looking for ways to help pollinators, creating a garden with their needs in mind can do more than you might think. Even a few potted plants on a sunny front porch can help these incredible insects survive.
Pollinator gardens can range in size from extensive flowerbeds planted with a wide variety of flowers to a few porch pots or window boxes filled with plants that pollinators love. The only limit is your imagination and the amount of space you have for plants.
When planting for pollinators, I like to grow at least three of the same types of plants together in proximity. This technique, known as “drift” planting, makes flowers easier for pollinators to spot and feed from, but it also gives gardens and planters a more natural look. I’ll also stack taller plants toward the rear of my beds and shorter flowers closer to the sides to ensure all the plants I grow get enough light.
If you don’t want to grow a fully dedicated pollinator garden, you can also simply slip a few pollinator-friendly plants into your established flowerbeds or veggie garden. This will make these spaces more appealing to pollinators without requiring a full garden overhaul.
How to Create a Pollinator Garden
The amount of prep work you’ll need to do before starting a pollinator garden will vary depending on the status of your current garden space. If you’ve already been growing annuals and perennials in your beds, you may just want to refresh the soil with a layer of compost before planting. However, suppose you’re starting a brand-new bed and your soil is lacking to begin with. In that case, you may want to conduct a soil test, add a layer of compost or other amendments, or potentially even build and fill a few raised beds if you have poorly draining soil or your garden is naturally rocky.
Getting on top of weeds before you start planting is also wise and can make future gardening much easier. You can do this by hand-pulling them or by smothering weeds with cardboard or tarps for a few weeks before you intend to plant.
Pollinator beds can be placed in either sunny or shady areas. However, the amount of light your beds receive will determine the types of plants you’ll be able to grow. Pollinator-friendly rain gardens can even be located in poorly draining spots that stay wet year-round as long as you choose water-tolerant plants to grow in them.
Aside from light access and soil, pollinator gardens should also be positioned away from busy roadways, if possible, and far from areas regularly treated with pesticides. It’s also a good idea to place them in slightly sheltered spots, as windy locations can make it harder for pollinators to fly about and feed.
Every monarch’s journey begins on milkweed—one more reason this native plant is a pollinator-garden essential. Credit: Danita Delimont
Plants That Attract Pollinators
Native plants are, by far, the best picks for pollinators, but many non-native perennials, shrubs, annuals, and flowering herbs are also highly attractive to pollinators. For best results, try including a range of plants with different flowering times to ensure pollinators have a ready source of pollen and nectar no matter when they visit. You may also want to include host plants, like milkweed or dill, which are important food sources for developing monarch and swallowtail caterpillars.
Here are just a few of my favorite must-have pollinator plants, but you can find many more plants that draw in bees, hummingbirds, and other wildlife!
Annuals
Zinnias
Cosmos
Nasturtiums
Sunflowers
Sweet Alyssum
Basil
Dill
Lantana
Perennials
Milkweed
Coneflowers
Joe Pye Weed
Cardinal Flower
Yarrow
Blazing Star
Alliums
Thyme
Asters
Goldenrod
Shrubs
Buttonbush
Serviceberry
Chokeberry
Summer Sweet
Purple Flower Raspberry
Blueberries
Winterberry
New Jersey Tea
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/how-create-pollinator-garden
 Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

We are dry, here is how to water early spring with transplants and seeds. 

​Good afternoon.  It has been a couple of days since posting.  For some reason I have lots of things to do.  We are having wind this Tuesday. Clouds and sun.  It is getting warmer out, then a cold front is moving in for tonight.  Do you think we are having more wind this year?  Sems like it.  Stay warm, then stay cool, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for May 13th Wed having 67F(19C) with little wind. So I would think it is a nice Fall Day for them.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
I changed my mind on what to post.  It is getting closer to May 15th, so then it is safe to plant tomatoes, and peppers.  Vine plants such as cucumbers, squash, watermelon, pumpkins I always suggested June 1 to the 15th. If you have planted, just watch and make sure they are doing ok.  My next concern is how dry it is.  We need rain, but if the ground is dry you are going to have to water.
Every year it is something different with our weather.  Last year it was very warm and hot in May with lots of rain.  Now this year it is cold, a little heat, and back to cold and dry.  Gardening Is so depended on the weather for us to have success. 
Here is a good little hint about watering with early spring.  Master your spring garden watering tips with the finger test – stick your finger two inches into soil near plant roots.  If it’s dry, water deeply until you see runoff from drainage holes. Water early morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.  Skip the sprinkler dance and water at soil level instead. New transplants need daily attention for their first week, while established plants prefer less frequent but thorough soaking. 
So it looks like not overhead sprinkler, but using a wand and watering the plants or rows, or use a watering can.
Container plants dry out faster than ground plantings, so check them twice weekly. The secret lies in reading your plants’ subtle signals and timing your watering schedule perfectly, which is key to mastering your garden care.
New spring plants need your special attention during their first few weeks as they develop stronger root systems.
You’ll want to water them more frequently than established plants, checking soil moisture daily and providing gentle, consistent hydration to prevent transplant shock. 
Establishment Period  New plants face their biggest challenge during the establishment period—those vital first few weeks when root development determines long-term success.
Initial watering requires a delicate balance: too much creates soggy conditions, while too little triggers transplant shock.
Start with consistent moisture during weeks one and two, checking soil daily.
Your seedlings need time for soil settling around roots, so water gently to avoid disturbing newly planted specimens.
Timeline        Watering Frequency         Soil Condition
Week 1-2      Daily                           Consistently moist
Week 3-4      Every 2-3 days         Slightly dry between waterings
Week 5+       1-2 times weekly    Check 1" below surface
During the establishment period, deep watering encourages downward root development rather than shallow spreading.
Proper spring garden watering techniques during this phase set the foundation for thriving plants throughout the growing season.
Taken from https://freshharvesthaven.com/spring-garden-watering-tips
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from Becky's Greenhouse

We found this plant inside the greenhouse and surprised how it was blooming.  Now it outside on the wagon.  

Happy Mother’s Day to all.  I get to share the day with many of the moms.  Yesterday 2 gardeners came that have been coming for years.  One was 87 and the other 84.  Always gardeners at heart.  It was so good seeing them. As I say I get pleasure in growing the plants and seeing how well they grow.  But my favorite part is the gardeners.  Each one of you, I enjoy visiting with, and catching up on you.  You are my garden of friends. 
Today is cool, but still a perfect spring day.  Few white cumulus clouds with the blue sky.  NNW wind at 17MPH but we are sheltered from that direction, so it doesn’t seem that windy.  High today 68F(20C) ENJOY and stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Monday May 11 will have 66F(19C) Similar temperatures for us and them.  They do celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday. ALL friends and families have a Happy Mother’s Day one day later.  ENJOY and stay safe.
 
In this greenhouse, you wouldn’t think that plants could hide.  But we found these sunflowers plants so happy blooming and now they are on a wagon.  These are new for me to grow.  I love looking at them on the wagons, in the breeze with their happy flowers.  They only grow 24” so that should be fun to grow.  Use it as a cut flower.  Have you grown this one in your garden?  Let us know. 

Sunfinity® Double Yellow Sunflower Helianthus annuus
Endless Blooms. All Season Long. Double the sun and double the garden fun with this truly innovative double flowered vegetative Sunflower.  Continuous Bloom or Rebloomer Disease Resistant Long Blooming Attracts:  Bees, Butterflies The  optimum amount of sun or shade each plant needs to thrive: Full Sun (6+ hours), Part Sun (4-6 hours), Full Shade (up to 4 hours).
Uses Notes: Versatile in both large patio containers and in the landscape.  Maintenance Notes: Has a high resistance to powdery mildew throughout the summer season.
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

images from Becky's Greenhouse 

​Good morning.  It is a little chilly this morning, but sunshine and clouds mixed.  Wind is out of the NW at 10 to 25 mph.  That will make a difference on how the temperature feels.  Larry got the shade cloth over the greenhouse on Friday and that makes a world of difference with the comfort inside.  Before he put it on, it was 85F and bright and sunny.  Plants love that but they still will get the heat and the sun, but just more comfortable for the humans inside.
 
Australia family and friends will have 65F(17C)  but will have wind gust up to 19MPH so wondering if that will make it feel cooler. I would say it would make it feel cooler. Stay warm, stay safe.
 
As you can see, we have 5 wagons almost full of plants outside.  And if I say hey look good. Greenhouse is full so we are ready for you to come and see what you want to use in your garden.
We plant for you.  I am offering lower prices we had from previous years to give you savings.  As you must drive here, I thought this was a way to give you savings. I thought this was a way to give back to you.
Open today, Saturday 9-6 and Sunday 1-6.  I love growing the plants, but I love you the gardener more so it is always good to see and visit with you all. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from Becky's Greenhouse

We got our herbs in from Swift Greenhouse.  Fine looking plants Swift's Thank you

Looks like another perfect spring day.  Clear, blue sky this morning and mild temperatures.  We are to have a high of 70F(20C) with a light wind out of the west.  ENJOY and stay safe.
 Australia family and friends for their Saturday May 9 will have 65F( 18C) with wind gusts up to 15mph.  I have noticed during their summers weather they don’t have much wind, but it must be with the change in the weather for fall to winter they are having more.   Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Planting gals got all the flower plugs planted.  I have some that I want to do yet but that is usually what I do the different plants this time of year.  Thank you Val and Jackie for putting in the time to help.  Natalie will be helping me move plants in and out and around.  I am hoping that the frost is behind us.  Looks like next week we will be ok, and it will be closer to May 15th  so that will be good.  We could use some rain and again looks like next week it is predicted.  See what happens. 
Mother’s Day this weekend, we have lots of plants that your mom would like to stop in and have a look.  Open Friday, Saturday from 9-6 and Sunday 1-6

We just got in our herbs from Swift’s Greenhouse and again they have very high-quality plants that they deliver.  When you walk by that wagon, it smells so good.
I will plant herbs just for that aroma and also for the pollinators to use.   What are your favorite herbs? 

How to Start a Simple Herb Garden: 7 Beginner Tips
An herb garden is a wonderful addition to your veggie patch, kitchen garden, or even a balcony. Join gardening expert Melissa Strauss for some tips on starting a simple herb garden in your space for fresh herbs all the time!
written by Melissa Strauss
Growing an herb garden offers numerous practical and enjoyable benefits for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. For one thing, you will always have fresh, aromatic ingredients on hand when you’re preparing a meal that calls for them. Anyone who enjoys cooking knows that fresh herbs are generally superior to dried ones in nearly every case.
Purchasing fresh herbs at the grocery store is often expensive, and typically, you’ll end up buying more than you need. Then, you’re left with the leftovers going overlooked in the refrigerator, or wilting on the counter. Having them in the garden means that you can cut exactly what you need, and there’s no question that it’s as fresh as it gets.
Growing your own reduces the waste of plastic packaging that grocery store herbs come in. You can grow them pesticide-free, so you know that you’re not consuming any harmful chemicals, and many are full of nutrients, healthy antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Growing an herb garden is a very beginner-friendly endeavour. Many herbs practically grow themselves! Most are also resistant to diseases and can actually repel, rather than attract, insects. Here are some beginner tips to help you get started on your own simple herb garden!
Most herbs thrive best in full sun conditions. This means that they need at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily. This is essential for strong, healthy growth and optimal oil production, resulting in more flavor and beneficial properties.
If they don’t get enough light, your plants may become leggy and weak. Since the leaves are the part primarily used, leggy plants are undesirable because they have fewer leaves. These herbs are especially fond of full sun and will thrive in as much sun as you can give them:
Rosemary
Dill
Thyme
Basil
Sage
Lavender
Oregano
There are some herbs that don’t mind a bit of shade, and in hot climates, it will help to protect them from sunburn and dehydration. Try to aim for six hours of sun early in the day, and then shade in the afternoon. The afternoon sun is harsher. These will appreciate some shade:
Parsley
Chives
Tarragon
Cilantro
Mint
Chervil
Lemon Balm
When you choose a spot for your herb garden, this should be one of the primary considerations. Once you’ve planted, it will be difficult to adjust the level of exposure unless the containers are movable.
Mediterranean herbs do best in hotter, drier weather, while other species prefer cooler, moister weather.
Some herbs prefer hot, dry climates, others don’t mind, and even benefit from some humidity. If you live in a humid environment, you may struggle with Mediterranean-type herbs that prefer hot, dry weather. These include:
Sage
Thyme
Rosemary
Oregano
Lavender
That’s not to say you shouldn’t try; just that you’ll probably have to put in more effort to keep them healthy. I live in a humid climate and grow all five of these, and they do well. It’s crucial to maintain proper air circulation and keep them trimmed and thinned out. The more you cut them, the healthier they will be.
Space them out properly as well. If you leave them room to breathe, you’ll be less likely to develop fungal issues. Always water early in the day, and ensure you use well-draining soil.
Some will be easier to grow in a humid climate, as they are naturally adapted to those conditions. Some herbs that are more tolerant of high humidity include:
Basil
Mint
Lemongrass
Cilantro
Lemon Balm
Chives
When deciding between growing herbs in the ground or containers, consider the benefits and drawbacks of both approaches. It truly comes down to your specific environment and personal goals.
Planting in containers or raised beds is great when it comes to drainage. Herbs that hate soggy roots, like thyme and rosemary, will suffer in spaces with poor drainage. It’s easier to keep containers weed-free, you have more control over the soil, and they tend to be easier to access.
The disadvantages of growing in containers or raised beds include their higher initial cost. The soil will dry out more quickly, so you’ll need to be more diligent about watering. You may also find yourself limited by the amount of space in your containers.
Growing in the ground means that you have more room to spread out, and the startup cost is minimal. Ground soil also typically has better moisture retention, so watering is required less frequently.
On the downside, growing in the ground tends to be a bit higher maintenance. You have less control over the soil, and may need to amend it anyway, which adds some cost back into the equation. Drainage is specific to your situation, but if you have poor drainage, you’ll likely have fungal issues. You’ll also spend significantly more time weeding.
Herbs that like more humidity also tend to prefer richer, loamy soil.
Some herbs prefer rich soil, while others prefer the opposite. While most will still grow in rich soil, they won’t be as robust, and the flavors may not be as intense. Mediterranean-type plants actually prefer poor, rocky, and sandy soil. This is what they evolved to grow in, and it’s the best environment for them to thrive in.
For plants like thyme, rosemary, oregano, and sage, don’t worry about beefing up the nutrient content in your soil. When it comes to lavender, it’s detrimental to add too many nutrients to the soil. Lavender needs poor, well-draining soil and no fertilizer.
For plants like basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, and dill, fertile, loamy soil is best. If you noticed a pattern here, you’re onto something. Herbs that grow in the Mediterranean region like dry conditions and low soil fertility. Herbs that prefer high humidity also tend to thrive in fertile soil.
You can probably guess what I’m going to say about watering your herbs, can’t you? This goes hand in hand with their preference for moist or dry soil and air. Beginner gardeners tend to over- or under-water their herbs. Herbs that prefer a dry environment can survive longer without water. If you live in a humid environment, it’s better to let the soil dry between waterings for these plants.
Those with tender leaves, such as those that prefer higher humidity, will require more water. You may notice that your basil looks droopy long before your oregano. Basil likes plenty of water, which is what makes it a good companion for many vegetable plants. In containers, in the summer heat, I water my tender on an almost daily basis. The sturdier ones I water about every other day, and they are quite happy.
Regularly harvesting your herbs encourages more bushy growth.
The most important ongoing care for an herb garden is pruning and harvesting. You should harvest your herbs regularly. This will cause them to branch more and become bushier and more bountiful. The more you harvest, the more lush and plentiful the plants will become.
The second most crucial maintenance practice goes hand in hand with the first. Beginner herb gardeners should never allow their herbs to go to flower if they intend to eat them. Flowering draws energy up into the buds and blooms, away from the leaves. If you allow them to flower, they won’t taste as good. Any time you see flowers forming on your herbs, it’s time to pinch them off.
Pinching in general is suitable for your herbs when they are young. Think of pinching as harvesting, as it serves the same purpose. When your plants are small, pinch off the top leaves of each stem, and the plant will form more and stronger lateral branches.
Close up of a green caterpillar crawling on purple basil stems with green leaves covered in holes.
Repel pests from your herb garden with combinations of aromatic species.
On the topic of pests, some herbs attract them, and others repel them. Beginners can easily diversify their herb garden by planting them together. This will help prevent the damage that aphids and caterpillars will do to your basil and other tender herbs.
The Mediterranean herbs tend to repel insects. Rosemary, mint, lavender, and thyme all have repellent properties. The aromatic foliage of these plants is unpleasant to many insects, though pollinators do love their flowers.
By planting repellent herbs near those that attract pests, you will find that there are fewer issues. Any pests that do turn up, you can control with neem oil or hand removal, as you should avoid using pesticides on food crops.
Just a note on insects and herbs that might make you think twice about the damage they cause. Dill, parsley, and fennel are all larval food for the black swallowtail butterfly. If you see caterpillars on these plants, it means that you’ll soon see these beautiful butterflies!
One more note on planting fennel. Fennel is allelopathic. The roots produce a chemical that interferes with the growth of other plants. For this reason, I always grow fennel in its own container.
Taken from https://www.epicgardening.com/beginner-herb-garden/
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

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We have perennials for you.  nice selection as Swift Greenhouse does a great job of growing and delivering them.  WE have been doing business with them for over 35 years.  Thank you Swift's family. 
​
What a lovely day it is.  For me it is a perfect spring day.  Warm out but not too warm, a little wind not too windy and the sun is shining. 63F(17C) at 3:30 PM.  Enjoy, and stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Friday May 8th will have a temperature of 60F(15C) but wind gusts up to 28 MPH so making the temperature feel like 43F(6C)  there is a change of weather in their air. Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Here are what we have on the wagons as perennials.  2 shipments from Swift Greenhouse Gilman, Iowa.  They look so awesome, and now they have been outside hardened off to go into your gardens.  Mother’s Day is Sunday.  We are open Monday through Saturday 9-6 and Sunday 1-6.  Five wagons are full, and the greenhouse is full, so many annuals, vegetables, herbs, baskets, geraniums, perennials to choose from. Gift certificates are available. 
As I have said before, I am a grower so many of the annuals, all the baskets and vegetables are grown inside this greenhouse.  I am proud of the girls Val and Jackie as our planting plug girls.  They finished up with the plug trays today  I have some things to plant but imagine that.  We will start next week with the Memorial Day Planters. 
I have lowered the prices from previous years, so right away you get savings.  Bring your punch cards and when you are up to $100 you get 7.50 off.  I honor them forever.  We plant for you.  We have small 4 packs, large 4 packs and individual packs.  All of this we plant for you.  I want the plants in your garden not here in mine.  Come and see us.  Love to catch up. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

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Knock out roses for Mother's Day 

Quick posting.  Cloudy, sun is out, we put coats on in the greenhouse, sun comes out then off comes the coats.  But for the most part very comfortable in the greenhouse.  Gals are planting like crazy we have 14 plug trays left.  Hopefully if I help them, we can get them all planted today and tomorrow.  We had a low of 34F but no frost on the cars or ground.  Tonight wagons will be put back inside.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australis family and friends are having a change in their weather.  It is getting more like winter for them. 52F(11C) and have a 95% chance of rain.  Stay dry, stay warm, stay safe
Mother’s Day is Sunday which seems early and here we go.  We have some really nice looking Knock Out roes. As you can see, they are blooming.  Stop and pick one up for Mom.
 
Knock Out Roses are hardy, low-maintenance roses that thrive with proper sunlight, well-draining soil, regular watering, and annual pruning.
Sunlight and Location
Knock Out Roses flourish in full sun, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, though they can tolerate partial shade with fewer blooms. Choose a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and avoid planting too close to structures or other plants.
Soil Preparation
Prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, and gently loosen the roots before planting. Position the bud union slightly below the soil surface in colder climates or at/above the surface in warmer areas.
Watering
Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Newly planted roses require frequent watering for the first few months until established. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch such as shredded bark or wood chips around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilization
Feed Knock Out Roses with a balanced fertilizer or organic rose food in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Foliar feeding can continue throughout the growing season until the last feeding of the year.
Pruning
Prune annually to maintain shape and encourage blooms. In mild climates, prune 12–18 inches above the ground in early spring. In areas with harsh winters, prune down to about 3 inches to remove dieback. Knock Out Roses are fast-growing and respond well to pruning, which helps maintain a compact, upright shape.
Disease and Pest Resistance
These roses are highly disease-resistant and heat-tolerant, making them ideal for low-maintenance gardens. They are “self-cleaning,” so deadheading is generally unnecessary.
Additional Tips
They can be grown as individual plants, in borders, hedges, or containers.
Soil pH should be around 6.5, and nitrogen-rich soil supports vigorous growth.
Once established, Knock Out Roses are relatively drought-tolerant but still benefit from consistent watering during dry periods.
By following these care tips, Knock Out Roses will provide continuous blooms from spring through the first frost, with minimal maintenance and strong resilience to environmental challenges.
Taken from several sources.
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

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Fruit trees are here.

am posting on the 5th of May but need to stay in touch with you guys.  I will try to post again today. So much to share.  Cool out this morning but clear, blue sky.  Enjoy your day that we are blessed to have. 
Good afternoon, almost good evening as it is 5:00 PM that I am posting this. I have a wonderful college student helping this year and this is her third year.  Natalie has gotten 4 wagons full of bedding plants from inside the greenhouse that needed to come out.  We are not done planting, but the gals have plenty of room to finish up the planting.  This is the story of my life here in the greenhouse.  Fill up the greenhouse, move plants on wagons so to finish up the rest of the planting. 
Australia family and friends for their Tuesday ay 5th will have cloudy conditions expected around 9AM wind gusts up to 23 MPH are making the temperature feel like 52F(11C), high for them will be 63F(17C) Their weather is changing and getting ready for winter while we have summer.  Stay cool. Stay safe.
 
Here are the fruit trees we have on hand.
Apple, Cortland                                                     
Apple, Honeycrisp                                                 
Apple, Norland                  
Cherry, Northstar              
Cherry, Stella          
Plum Toka   
Peach trees didn’t get.
Hope we have what you want in fruit trees.  I will list the other trees another time. 
Open Monday through Saturday 9-6
Sunday 1-6
We plant for you.  Stop in and see us.                        
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

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Did you have frost last night?  Do you grow coral bells in your garden?  Saturday is an awesome day.  
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Happy BELATED May Day!  Here we go.  May 2ND AND finally getting time to post today. .  Perennials, trees, shrubs, roses, perennials, apple, cherry, peach, and plum trees came this week.  Greenhouse is full, and we are still planting.  News that is how it always goes at Becky’s Greenhouse.  I am adding new plants each week that can go into your garden.  Slowly I am bringing the plants out on the blacktop.  Last night we had all the wagons inside the east greenhouse. We had a low of 30F.  This is why our plants outside are on wheels.   Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for May 3, Sunday will be having 73F(18C).  Put they are 95% rain, but I am sure they are glad for rain. I will need to ask Evelyn if they celebrate May 1st which would have been 2 days ago for them.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
We have several selections of coral bells to plant in your garden.  Do you have some?  I do believe in growing easy plants.  I have found they like more part shade than full shade, and some gardeners tell me they have them in full sun. 
 
Coral bells (Heuchera) are grown for their vibrant foliage and thrive in part shade. Written By:  Andy Wilcox
Coral bells (Heuchera) are colorful, low-maintenance perennials that brighten shady gardens with foliage in lime, burgundy, silver, purple, and nearly black. Deer-resistant and adaptable to a range of soils, they’re a favorite for borders, containers, and woodland beds. Here’s how to grow and care for coral bells.
Coral bells are small, mounding perennials that stay evergreen in warm climates and may be semi-evergreen in colder regions. While many types produce airy flower spikes that attract hummingbirds and pollinators, coral bells are grown primarily for their striking foliage. Plants are typically hardy in USDA Zones 4–9 and tolerate a range of light and soil conditions as long as drainage is good.
Most varieties grow 6–12 inches tall and spread 1–3 feet wide, forming tight rosettes. Leaves may be smooth or ruffled and come in an incredible palette—chartreuse, pink, burgundy, purple, and near-black—often with contrasting veining or multicolored patterns.
In the landscape, heucheras mix well with other shade-loving plants. Match them with hostas, astilbes, ferns, and hellebores. Mix them in a partially sunny spot with your geraniums, ornamental grasses, and daylilies. They look best planted in small groups. As they’re on the small side, plant them toward the front of a border garden.
Coral Bells Care at a Glance
Light: Part shade is best; morning sun, afternoon shade
Soil: Rich, well-draining soil; avoid soggy sites
Water: Keep evenly moist while establishing; drought-tolerant in shade once rooted
Feeding: Minimal; light feeding for containers
Maintenance: Remove ragged leaves; divide every 3–4 years
Best feature: Foliage color (flowers are a bonus)
Are Coral Bells Deer-Resistant?
Coral bells are generally deer- and rabbit-resistant because the leaves are slightly astringent and unpalatable. That said, no plant is completely deer-proof—hungry animals may still browse during drought or winter.
Planting  Where to Plant
Coral bells grow best in part shade to partial sun. Aim for 4–6 hours of gentle light—morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. In hot climates, protect plants from strong afternoon sun, especially bright-lime or pink varieties that can scorch.
Choose soil that is moist but well-draining. Heavy clay or low spots that stay wet can lead to root rot. If drainage is poor, amend with compost, plant on a berm, or use a raised bed.
When to Plant
Spring: Plant after the last frost; harden off nursery plants before transplanting.
Fall: Plant at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes so roots can establish.
How to Plant
Dig a shallow hole slightly wider than the pot and loosen the surrounding soil.
Set the plant so the crown sits at ground level (not buried).
Backfill with native soil (amended if needed) and gently firm.
Space plants 12–24 inches apart, depending on mature width.
Water thoroughly and keep evenly moist for the first few weeks.
Planting Coral Bells in Containers
Coral bells do very well in pots. Use a high-quality potting mix, ensure drainage holes are open, and water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry. Container plants benefit from light feeding during active growth.
Part shade produces the best color and the least leaf scorch. If leaves bleach, brown at the edges, or crisp in summer, move plants to more afternoon shade.
Water
Water regularly after planting. Once established, coral bells are somewhat drought-tolerant in shade, but they look best with even moisture. Let the top couple inches dry slightly between waterings and avoid waterlogged soil.
Temperature and Humidity
Coral bells thrive across Zones 4–9. In very hot regions, extra afternoon shade and consistent moisture help prevent stress and leaf scorch.
Fertilizer
In-ground plants usually need little to no fertilizer if the soil is reasonably fertile. For containers, feed lightly once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted according to label directions.
Pruning and Deadheading
Remove tattered or winter-damaged leaves in early spring to make room for fresh growth. You can deadhead spent flower stalks for a tidier look and potential rebloom.
Dividing and Transplanting
Coral bells often become woody or thin in the center after a few years. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring (or early fall in mild climates) to rejuvenate growth.
Dig up the clump and gently shake off loose soil.
Pull or cut the plant into smaller sections with healthy roots and crowns.
Replant divisions promptly with the crown at ground level, and water well.
Overwintering
In Zones 4–9, coral bells typically overwinter outdoors. After the first hard frost, apply 2–4 inches of mulch (straw or shredded leaves) to reduce freeze-thaw heaving that can lift shallow roots. In spring, pull mulch back and remove dead leaves.
Pests and Problems
Coral bells are quite an easy-going, low-maintenance plant, but like all plants, there are a few diseases and pests to watch out for.
Common Pests and Diseases
Spider mites: More common in hot, dry conditions; increase humidity and rinse leaves.
Downy mildew: Improve airflow; avoid overhead watering.
Mealybugs: Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol; treat severe infestations as needed.
Japanese beetles: Hand-pick or use appropriate controls in your region.
Problem: Plants Are Short-Lived
Coral bells often decline after 3–4 years. Dividing regularly keeps plants vigorous and helps you expand your planting for free.
Problem: Scorched or Bleached Leaves
This usually means too much sun or heat. Shift plants to a spot with afternoon shade and keep soil evenly moist during heat waves.
Problem: Wilting or Drooping
Check soil moisture first. Underwatering and hot sun can cause wilt, but so can root rot from soggy soil. Ensure drainage and water only when the top of the soil begins to dry.
Problem: Sparse Foliage
If growth is thin, the plant may be in too much shade or the clump may be aging. Move to brighter shade and divide older plants.
Problem: Plants Lift Out of the Ground
Freeze–thaw cycles can heave shallow-rooted plants. Mulch after the first hard frost, and firm lifted crowns back into place in early spring.
Wit and Wisdom
Mix colors and sizes of heucheras to create a well-designed shady garden bed. In warmer zones, they can be a source of color all year long.
If you have a woodland edge, heucheras can be used to naturalize the area, providing interest after the daffodils have come and gone.
Heucheras should be divided every 3-4 years to renew vigor and avoid forming a hollow spot in the center.
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/plant/coral-bells-heucheras
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse