image from fity.club    I can smell them as they are growing.  

​IT IS RAINING OUT.  We had rain last night and it is still going on.  It has been ponding by the greenhouse, getting close to the greenhouse but isn’t in the greenhouse yet.  Hope it stays that way.  Don’t need water and flooding inside the greenhouse.  I noticed when I came back from the greenhouse, the rain isn’t like spring.  There is a wonderful smell with spring rain, so this is really just a winter rain.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for March 7th Friday will have a high of 76F(24C) Stay cool, stay safe and I would think enjoy the mild weather. 
 
I just planted eucalyptus into pots this week for sale at Becky’s Greenhouse.  The plants here in our zone will not grow like trees.  In fact, they will be a small plant but still have the stems that can be used for flower arrangements, and leaves from them. 
 
How to Grow and Care for Eucalyptus  By Amy
Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 60 feet high in its native Australian environment. When grown in your average home garden, though, eucalyptus tends to only grow to about 10 feet tall at most.
Eucalyptus is known for its fast growth rate, reddish-brown bark, and silvery blue leaves. If you plan on growing eucalyptus at home, keep in mind that its bark, leaves, and sap are toxic to humans and pets when ingested.12
Eucalyptus Plant Care
Here are the main care requirements for growing eucalyptus:
Plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
Prefers warm temperatures.
Eucalyptus likes a lot of light, so place your plant somewhere that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Likewise, eucalyptus plants grown indoors should be kept near a bright window, preferably one that faces south.
Soil
Eucalyptus can tolerate most soil types, but it needs soil with good drainage. For container plants, use a well-draining potting mix. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is best.
Water
Eucalyptus is somewhat drought-tolerant once it's established. However, long periods of dryness may cause it to drop leaves. A good rule of thumb is to water when you can stick your finger into the soil and feel dryness at your fingertip.
Temperature and Humidity
Eucalyptus prefers warm temperatures between roughly 65°F and 75°F, and it likes a moderate humidity level. It cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F. So if you're growing your plant in a container, bring it indoors when you expect chilly temperatures.
Fertilizer
If you're growing your plant in the ground, it typically won't need fertilizer. However, container plants will deplete their nutrients more quickly. So fertilize them with a low-nitrogen houseplant fertilizer throughout the growing season, following label instructions.
A EUCALYPTUS PLANT IS A GOOD CHOICE IF:
You want a plant that doesn't require pruning to be healthy
You live in a warm, humid environment that stays above 50°F
You don't have any pets (or have indoor-only pets, like cats) since this plant is toxic
Growing eucalyptus in a pot is a great option for gardeners who want to grow the plant outside of its hardiness zone. You can bring it indoors during winter.
Eucalyptus plants don't like having their roots disturbed, so it's best to start with a large, 5-gallon container to avoid having to repot. Choose an unglazed clay or plastic pot with plenty of drainage holes. If you must repot, go with a pot 2 inches wider than the previous.
Harvesting Eucalyptus Leaves
It is best to wait until late in the growing season to harvest eucalyptus. If you just want the leaves, simply snip them off with pruners or by hand. Air-dry them on a paper towel or drying screen in a cool spot out of direct sunlight. Wait until the leaves are slightly leathery or crispy, and then store them in glass jars with tightly sealed lids.
Leaves Turning Brown
Leaves turning brown on a eucalyptus tree can be a sign of too little moisture. That’s likely the issue if you notice leaves curling up or dropping as well. In that case, up your watering to keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. Brown leaves also can be a sign of disease, especially fungal diseases. If just a small area is affected, remove that portion promptly. Or treat with an appropriate fungicide.
Taken from https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-and-use-eucalyptus-1762354
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 the yearoftheimpatiens.com 

Another morning of clouds and even heavy fog.  Drive safely till it lifts.  Temperatures are good at high of 51F(11C) It is getting warmer out. It looks like for a few more days, then it will drop down to the temperature we should have.  With the fog, and the clouds it doesn’t quite feel like 51 but it is so much better than that below zero temperature.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for their Friday March 6 will have 76F(24C).  I would think that would make for a very nice fall day.  Hard to believe they are going into fall, isn’t it.  Stay cool, stay safe.
 
There is always a plant of the year, and it looks like the impatiens is that annual plant.  Easy to grow if you know where to plant sun or shade. I will have these here this spring for your gardens. 
​
The Year of the Impatiens
Did you know the name "Impatiens" actually describes the plant's personality? Known as the "Touch-me-not," these plants have a fascinating seed dispersal mechanism where their ripe capsules burst at the slightest touch—shooting seeds up to 20 feet away!
From the Mountains to Your Garden
First discovered by explorers in the late 1500s across East Africa and South Asia, this genus is incredibly diverse. While we love them in our window boxes, some wild species in New Guinea actually grow as tall as trees.
The Great Comeback
After a tough decade following the 2011 downy mildew epidemic, the Impatiens has made a triumphant return. Thanks to modern breeding breakthroughs, new disease-resistant varieties like Beacon and Imara XDR mean we can all enjoy these vibrant shade-lovers once again.
Whether you're planting a simple container or a lush garden border, 2026 is the perfect year to celebrate the resilient beauty of the Impatiens.
Most Popular Species of Impatiens
 Impatiens walleriana (Traditional Busy Lizzie
Impatiens hawkeri (New Guinea Impatiens) – genetically resistant to IDM,
Impatiens balsamina (Garden Balsam)
Expert Growing: 5 Pro Tips for Success
Light matters! Traditional Impatiens love shade, while SunPatiens can rock full sun – know your variety before planting.
 Want happy Impatiens? Plant them in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.5 and watch them thrive!
Pro tip: Water your Impatiens at the soil level, not overhead, and keep the soil consistently moist for best results.
Feed your Impatiens monthly with balanced fertilizer (15-15-15), but container plants might need weekly feedings or a dose of slow-release fertilizers.
Give your Impatiens room to grow! Traditional varieties need 8-12 inches of space, while SunPatiens need 14-24 inches.
BONUS Container growing tip: Always use pots with drainage holes and quality potting mix for healthy Impatiens.
Taken from Year of the Impatiens.com
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

planted on Feb. 13th

 picture taken Feb 27th 

​A quick post of what is happening in the greenhouse.  2 weeks ago I planted pansies and you can see by the pictures they are growing.
I plant, I water, and the miracle of the greenhouse they grow.  I need to give Larry credit for keeping the stoves running so they have heat.  I will post again in another 2 weeks.  I do think the pansies are starting to bloom, but I will let them get a little bigger before I show you that. 
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 Oldfarmersalmanac.com 

Another cloudy day there was fog this morning, so frost on the windshields.  Cool out but temperature high today will be 49F(9C) is getting more like spring. Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends will also have cloudy weather but their high will be 79F(26C) they talked about it being humid so that would add to the heat.  They had some good rains, but other parts of Australia had lots of rain, floods and lost property with those floods.  Stay safe.
 
Here is a quick idea for you to think about.  Grow vegetables in containers.  I have been doing a small amount of these for the last couple of years and will try to add more.   I think the watering is the hardest, as must be done every day or hot twice a day.  But the convenience of it might be in its favor.  Also, I can do it on the blacktop watering and care is easier for me.   I don’t have time to do a full-size garden, so doing it in containers can make it easier for me. 
 
A flexible, beginner-friendly vegetable garden you can grow entirely in pots written By:  Catherine Boeckmann
This Vegetable Container Garden Plan shows how you can grow a productive, flexible garden almost anywhere using pots and containers. The containers can be grouped together, spaced apart to capture sunlight, or rearranged as the season progresses. Growing vegetables doesn’t require a backyard—or even a patch of ground. This plan is perfect for patios, balconies, and small spaces.
Grow fresh vegetables almost anywhere with this beginner-friendly container vegetable garden layout plan.
The size and depth of each container determine what you can grow. Large, deep pots support fruiting vegetables like tomatoes and peppers, while smaller containers are perfect for salad greens, herbs, and quick crops

The Container Plant List
This example plant list shows a flexible mix of crops commonly grown in containers. You can swap plants based on your climate, taste, and available pot sizes.
 Plant Name  Spacings        Quantity       Sow Indoors Sow/Plant Outdoors
Blackberry    Single: 2’ 11”, In-Row: 2’ 11”, 2’ 11” row gap 5          —        April → mid May
Lavender      Single: 1’ 4”, In-Row: 1’ 2”, 1’ 2” row gap       3          Mid March → mid May    May → end of June
Mint   Single: 8”, In-Row: 6”, 10” row gap       3          —        Mid May → mid June
Nasturtium   Single: 1’ 0”, In-Row: 1’ 0”, 1’ 0” row gap       3          Mid April → mid May        Mid May
Oregano       Single: 8”, In-Row: 6”, 10” row gap       3          April → mid May    Mid May → mid June
Pumpkin       Single: 2’ 11”, In-Row: 2’ 11”, 2’ 11” row gap 2          May → mid May     Mid May → end of June
Tomato (Large)       Single: 1’ 8”, In-Row: 1’ 6”, 2’ 0” row gap       2          Mid March → mid May            Mid May → end of June
Tomato (Small)       Single: 1’ 8”, In-Row: 1’ 6”, 2’ 0” row gap       5          Mid March → mid May            Mid May → end of June
What to Grow in a Vegetable Container Garden
One of the strengths of container gardening is flexibility. You’re not locked into a fixed planting list. These crops are especially well-suited to container growing:
Salad Crops
Salad leaves can be grown in just about any pot, and because of this, there is a huge range to choose from. Leaf lettuce, spinach, arugula, and other salad greens grow beautifully in containers and can be harvested repeatedly as “cut-and-come-again” crops.
Potatoes
Potatoes can be grown in just about anything, too. Dustbins and sacks are brilliant for them, as long as there are good drainage holes in the bottom. I succession plant into my pots; first the potatoes, then the tomatoes are moved from the greenhouse to the pots, and then in the fall I sow my winter salads.
Fruiting Vegetables
Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash can all be grown in large containers, especially when supported with stakes or trellises.
Herbs
Basil, parsley, chives, thyme, and many other herbs grow well in pots and are easy to keep close to the kitchen.
Fruit in Containers
You can even grow fruit trees! Dwarf fruit trees grown on dwarfing rootstocks make it possible to create a mini orchard in containers, even on patios or paved areas.
This plan works because it embraces the strengths of container gardening: flexibility, portability, and control. By matching plants to appropriate container sizes, refreshing soil regularly, and using succession planting, a container garden can be just as productive as an in-ground plot—and sometimes even more so.
Growing vegetables in containers comes with many advantages:
Containers are portable and easy to move.
Containers make it easier to garden around poor or contaminated soil.
Soil can be refreshed, replaced, or reused as needed.
Plants can be moved indoors when frost threatens.
Gardening is possible on patios, balconies, rooftops, urban settings, and paved areas.
The main drawback is that containers dry out more quickly than garden beds, so regular watering is essential—especially in warm weather.
Reusing Containers Through the Seasons
One of the great strengths of container gardening is the reusability of pots. A container that held tomatoes in summer can be replanted with spinach and lettuce in the fall.
As confidence grows, many gardeners begin to experiment beyond traditional pots. Crates, tubs, sacks, and other household items can all be repurposed as planters—as long as they have good drainage holes. This flexibility allows for creative, low-cost gardening and constantly evolving layouts.
Many types of containers with vegetables growing
Container gardening opens the door to growing food in places where traditional gardens simply aren’t possible.
FAQs for Container Vegetable Garden Layout
Q: Do vegetables really grow well in containers?
A: Most do. With adequate sunlight, proper container size, and regular watering, many vegetables grow extremely well in pots.
Q: Do I need special soil for container gardening?
A: Yes. Use a high-quality potting mix designed for containers—garden soil is too heavy and drains poorly in pots.
Q: How often should container vegetables be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot weather, some containers may need watering daily.
Q: Can containers be reused year after year?
A: Absolutely. Refresh the soil each season and clean containers before replanting.
Q: Can I garden year-round in containers?
A: In mild climates or with protection, yes. Containers can also be moved indoors or into greenhouses.
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/vegetable-container-garden-plan
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 greenhousegrower.com 

Cloudy day in Dougherty, but mild temperatures, and very little wind.  High today of 43F(6C) mild temperatures all week, storms on Friday.  ENJOY, stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for March 4, Wed will have 77F(25C)  One of the friends wrote “ We had lovely rain.  Nice soaking rain.  Up in central Australia they are having floods.  I feel for the farmers who have lost cattle and infrastructure.  Place people whose houses have been inundated with flood water.”  Stay safe
 
I grew these for the first time last year.  They were good sellers, so added another variety to the plant list.  Do you plant these?  If not give them a try, I think they bloom regularly and if you like that daisy like flower this is your plant. 
 
 
How to Grow and Care for Osteospermum
Also called African daisy, this tender perennial is often grown as an annual for its beautiful spring and fall blooms.  By Lynn McAlpine 
​
Osteospermum is a relatively recent addition to the gardening world and has only been available in the trade since the early 1990s. With their cheerful, daisy-like blossoms, osteospermums were an instant hit. They create a lively display when planted on their own or with other cool-season plants, such as pansies.
When osteospermums were first introduced, they were available in only a few colors, primarily white and peach. Despite a limited color selection, their bright blue-purple centers made them a popular garden choice. After plant breeders got to work, new hues of flowers started appearing, including pink, purple, and bicolor.
Where to Plant Osteospermum
Osteospermums typically thrive as cool-season annuals. Some types can withstand Zones 9-11, though they aren't able to endure cold weather. During hot summer months, these plants may pause their blooming and resume once cooler nights arrive in the fall. In colder regions, you can relocate them to a sheltered spot for the winter.  Consider planting trailing or compact osteospermums in hanging baskets or container gardens. Their trailing forms also serve well as groundcovers. Pair osteospermums with lavender and Russian sage for a stunning display. These plants share similar soil and water needs and look striking alongside ornamental grasses like blue fescue.
How and When to Plant Osteospermum
To plant osteospermum in your garden, wait until mid- to late spring, after the last expected frost in your area. Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant's root ball. Place the plant in the hole, then cover it with a mix of organic matter and soil. Water thoroughly when you first plant it. Space the plants about 12 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Light
Osteospermums do best full sunlight. The more sun they receive, the more vibrant and plentiful their blooms will be.
Soil and Water
Osteospermum prefer soil that is both well-drained and evenly moist. Soil that is too wet can harm or even kill them. Once established, these plants are somewhat drought-tolerant.
Temperature and Humidity
Though osteospermums are tender perennials, they are often grown as annuals in USDA Zone 8 and below. They can handle temperatures in the high 30s but won't survive freezing conditions. Indoors, they thrive in normal household temperatures and moderate humidity around 60 percent. Consider using a plant humidifier if your home's air is drier.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio near 10-10-10 to the soil in the spring before planting osteospermums. During the summer, supplement with liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Regular fertilization and removing spent blooms will help your osteospermums look their best.
Pruning
Lightly prune the entire osteospermum plant in early spring or late fall to promote bushy growth. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Potting and Repotting Osteospermum
Choose a container slightly larger than needed, ensuring it has a drainage hole, and fill it with well-draining potting soil. Place it in a sunny location and keep the soil evenly moist. You can move the container outdoors to a balcony or patio but bring it inside in the autumn before the first frost to overwinter. Osteospermum typically lives for only two to three years, so repotting might not be necessary.
Taken from https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/osteospermum/
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 ar.inspiredpencil.com   spring in Iowa

Fall in Australia 

images from Friends of Sale Botanic Gardens, Sale Australia 

Back from the greenhouse.  Overcast, but temperatures not too bad. High today of 38F(3C) a mild week with rain at times.  Looks like March coming in like a lamb.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Tuesday March 3, will have 70F(20C) looks like a great fall day for them.  Stay cool, stay safe.
 
Pictures from the Sale Botanic Gardens, and you can see fall is starting for them.
Welcome to Autumn!
It’s when the deciduous trees begin to colour up because of the shorter daylight hours trigger the chlorophyll in the leaves to break down.
 Looking forward to the Maple Forest, the Ginkgo Forest and the Elm Forest changing colour.  Images and information from The Friends of Sale Botanic Gardens
March 1st would mark the beginning of fall in Australia as Evelyn told us.
In Australia, autumn typically begins on March 20, 2026, and lasts until June 20, 2026. The months of March, April, and May are generally considered autumn in Australia.
 
What is starting for us is Spring.  There are two springs in March, have a read about them. 
Spring Equinox, Northern Hemisphere (March)  In Mason City, Iowa, USA: Friday, March 20, 2026 at 9:46 am CDT

Meteorological vs. astronomical spring: what's the difference?
by Gracyn Freund
IOWAS NEWS NOW, Iowa — Meteorological spring begins this Sunday, March 1, but the official start of the season, known as astronomical spring, doesn’t begin until March 20.  This brings the question: Why are there two different dates for the "first day" of spring?  March is a month of change across the country in the weather department.  In Iowa, there's a pretty big temperature difference from the start of the month to the end.   Average high temperatures are in the upper 30s in early March and climb to the mid-50s by the end of the month. We typically see around 2" of precipitation.  Even after spring begins, winter weather can still linger, as we average around 4" of snow through March.
Meteorological Spring
Meteorological spring runs from March1-May31. Meteorologists use fixed three-month seasons to better track temperatures, compare climate data, and keep records consistent year after year. These seasons are broken down into groupings based on the annual temperature cycle.  The winter season includes December, January, and February, which are the coldest months of the year. Summer includes June, July, and August, or the warmest months of the year. Fall is made up of September, October, and November.  Both spring and fall are transitional, where temperatures are rising (spring) or falling (fall)
Astronomical spring, the official start of the season on the calendar, arrives on March 20 this year.
The earth’s annual orbit around the sun forms the foundation of the astronomical calendar.
The seasons are determined by the earth's tilt and the sun’s position relative to the equator. At the vernal (spring) equinox, the Earth is aligned so that the sun is directly above the equator. Following the equinox, the Northern Hemisphere experiences longer periods of daylight than darkness, continuing until the summer solstice.
Therefore, astronomical spring will run from March 20-June 20 this year.
The difference between the two “first days” of spring comes down to how they’re defined: meteorological spring is used for data tracking and record keeping, while astronomical spring is based on the tilt of Earth’s axis as it orbits the sun
Taken from https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/meteorological-vs-astronomical-spring-whats-the-difference
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 storables.com 

Clear morning, sun is up and high today in the 50’s(10C)  JUST enjoy.
 
Australia family and friends having rain yesterday.  Evelyn said they even had lightning and thunder which is not normal.  For their Saturday Feb 28, will have a high of 79F(26C) but looking ahead Sunday through Tuesday rain is predicted. , Tom our brother-in-law, I am thinking you will have to mow lawn.  Enjoy your Saturday, stay cool, stay safe.  LOVE to all…
 
I am including another invasive plant.  Gardeners of North Iowa had a group that met every week all summer and fall at Central Park in Mason City cleaning up a big flower bed that had Pachysandra and zebra grass.  Both are invasive and looked nice but took over the whole area just as invasive plants do.  They got it cleaned up and awesome job gardeners.  This wouldn’t have been a gardener’s favorite job, but thanks for doing it.  So be careful in buying plants when you research them as they sound really good. 
 
Some forms of pachysandra are considered invasive Pachysandra is an evergreen groundcover plant that thrives in full to partial shade and is highly deer-resistant.  It spreads through rhizomes and stolons, making it easy to propagate, but can be invasive in some regions.  Proper drainage is crucial for pachysandra, as overly wet soils can lead to root rot and other fungal issues.
 Pachysandra is a rugged, evergreen perennial with glistening foliage that looks good year-round. While it's considered a member of the boxwood family, pachysandra is typically grown as a groundcover.
In spring, short spikes of fragrant white flowers top pacysandra. The flowers' intense fragrance (similar to a jasmine or gardenia-like scent) appeals to many people, although others describe the smell as a flowery mothball. If you have a sensitive nose, be sure to test them out in bloom before purchasing the plants.
Pachysandra is an evergreen groundcover plant that thrives in full to partial shade and is highly deer-resistant.  It spreads through rhizomes and stolons, making it easy to propagate, but can be invasive in some regions.  Proper drainage is crucial for pachysandra, as overly wet soils can lead to root rot and other fungal issues.
Pachysandra is a rugged, evergreen perennial with glistening foliage that looks good year-round. While it's considered a member of the boxwood family, pachysandra is typically grown as a groundcover.
In spring, short spikes of fragrant white flowers top pacysandra. The flowers' intense fragrance (similar to a jasmine or gardenia-like scent) appeals to many people, although others describe the smell as a flowery mothball. If you have a sensitive nose, be sure to test them out in bloom before purchasing the plants.
Some forms of pachysandra are considered invasive in several mid-Atlantic states, including Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Delaware.1 In particular, Pachysandra terminalis (a.k.a. Japanese pachysandra or Japanese surge) is considered an ecological threat as it can spread quickly and displace native vegetation while providing little benefit to native wildlife. Look for native varieties, like Pachysandra procumbens (a.k.a., Allegheny spurge) or consider a different groundcover plant in those areas.
Taken from https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/spurge
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 publicdomainpictures.com 

Morning.  Clouds are moving out and we will have sun today.  Temperature will be good and high today of 44F(6C) stay warm, enjoy and stay safe I just got back in and the plugs arrived.  I was looking for them all day yesterday, but the driver said they came out of the truck this morning.  I opened one box and they looked fine.  Job this afternoon is unpacking them and checking them over. 
 
Australia family and friends for Feb 27th Friday will have 76F(24C) and looks like rain in their forecast.  Stay dry, stay cool, stay safe.
 
It looks like I am posting things that you shouldn’t do.  Here are some invasive plants to not plant.  I remember years ago, I had bought the chameleon plant thinking it would be a great plant for the shade.  Never realizing what it did.  Now I do, and I will not have it here to sell again.  Sorry to the gardeners that tried it and found out.

Invasive Plants to Avoid in Your Garden (+ Native Alternatives)
It may look pretty but looks are deceiving. We now know that the cheap, stinky invasive Bradford pear tree crowds out native plants.   Written By: Robin Sweetser
I am always amazed when I see known invasives being sold at garden centers, online, and in catalogs. Here are silent invaders you should never bring home to grow in your yard—plus, some substitute plants to grow instead.
Common Invasive Plants
Autumn Olive
Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) is often sold in wildlife packages or for erosion control. Birds do love their berries, which is one way they spread. Able to grow rapidly in sun and shade, their roots alter the soil chemistry around them to keep other plants from germinating nearby, and they outcompete and quickly displace native species.
Substitute plants: Native ninebark (Physocarpus) or Viburnum both offer colorful fall foliage and berries for birds and other wildlife.
Bishop’s Weed
Bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria), also known as goutweed, is my archenemy. The variegated leaf type was growing on my property when we moved in 38 years ago, and even though we mow it and pull it up, it still comes back.
I am always appalled when I see it for sale. It is quite pretty, grows in sun or shade, and is totally bulletproof, so I can understand why people buy it. Don’t!
The extremely invasive green type keeps making its way from my neighbor’s house via seeds the birds drop. I spend a lot of time every spring and summer digging up its brittle roots, which tend to snap off. Leaving even a tiny piece behind causes it to resprout soon after. We have tried smothering large sections of it with black plastic, but it manages to return. They say the only way to be rid of it is to move!
Substitute plants: Native foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia) or wild geranium (Geranium maculatum) for shady areas.
Bradford Pear
Ugh! It may look pretty, but the awful Bradford pear (Pyrus calleriana)—also called Callery pear—has been sold widely as a cheap ornamental landscape tree. Even though it is self-sterile, it can cross-pollinate with other types of callery pears, and those offspring have proven to be invasive, escaping to forest areas, dominating the landscape, and shading out all other growth.
Substitute plants: They are such a problem in South Carolina that Clemson University offers up to 5 free native replacement trees—including oaks, maples, hornbeam, river birch, and magnolia—to homeowners who cut down their Bradford pears.
More substitute plants include native dogwood, redbud, and serviceberry. All
The Bradford (Callery) Pear invasion. If you have this tree, many cities have buy-back programs.
Chameleon Plant
Many plants we’re attracted to buying are beautiful. The chameleon plant (Houttuynia cordata) is no exception. Native to Southeast Asia, this ground cover has very attractive, multi-colored leaves and, like many ground covers, spreads by underground rhizomes—fast! If you try to weed it out, those brittle rhizomes break, and any scrap left behind will just resprout, similar to bishop’s weed. It grows in sun or shade and likes moist soil.
Substitute plants: Native heuchera, tiarella, or a showy hybrid of the two called heucherella.
From https://www.almanac.com/10-invasive-plants
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 thankyourgarden.com 

Just came in from checking greenhouse.  I am really looking for a driver to deliver plants today.  I was told he was a new one, so I wanted to make sure we get them in the greenhouse right away and not leave outside the door.  Temperature is 18F and they come with heat packs in them but still want them in the warm greenhouse.  With the sun shining it is getting warmer there.  Clear blue sky for today, high of 29F(-2C) it will be enjoyable with the sun shining and warming up.  We have that snow cover so it will take longer to warm up.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends have had a good rain for the last couple of days.  Even had thunder and lightning during the night.  Evelyn said everything is really starting to green up again. High today will be 69F(20C) but they have wind up to 19mph so that will keep them cooler.  Stay cool, Enjoy, stay safe. 
 
I know when it is cold and we have snow you won’t be thinking about working in the garden.  But it will start to warm up and here are some things that you shouldn’t do in your garden yet this winter. 
​
7 Winter Gardening Mistakes to Avoid Healthier Plants in Spring
Winter throws plenty of challenges at plants. Don’t add to the adversity with these gardening mistakes.
Your garden rarely needs human assistance during winter, and it's often best to let nature do its thing. It's especially important to avoid the following common winter gardening mistakes so your garden will have a healthy start to the spring growing season.
Mistake 1: Pruning Fruit Trees Too Early
Timing is everything when it comes to pruning fruit trees, and mid- to late winter is prime time to do While it’s tempting to prune in late fall or early winter when temperatures are still mild, it can disrupt the tree’s preparation for winter. It takes weeks for a woody plant to move nutrients from leaves and small branches back into the tree at the end of the growing season. Pruning too early risks delaying dormancy and making the tree susceptible to cold injury.
Wait to prune until after your area has experienced its coldest average winter temperatures. Many Extension experts advise pruning in late winter when air temperatures start to rise again, and it is simply more pleasant to be outside and prune. Start with the hardiest fruit trees—apple trees in most regions—and then move on to less hardy species as spring approaches.
Mistake 2: Pruning Flower Buds
While winter is the ideal time to prune many trees and shrubs, it is the wrong time to prune most spring-flowering ornamental shrubs. These shrubs have flower buds on what is called "old wood" (branches that are at least one year old). Pruning these shrubs in winter removes flower buds that are just weeks away from opening.
Prune spring-flowering shrubs promptly after they flower. These shrubs include azalea, camellia, daphne, dogwood, forsythia, lilac, magnolia, viburnum, and witch hazel.
Mistake 3: Spreading Fireplace Ash on the Garden
In a cold winter, an active wood-burning fireplace generates a lot of wood ash. Tempting as it might be, don’t spread the ash on your garden without taking a soil test first. Wood ash quickly raises soil pH. If the soil pH is too high (alkaline), plants can’t access vital nutrients. Most vegetables do best in a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Only spread fireplace ash in your garden if a soil test indicates that it is acidic. And, when using wood ash, apply it sparingly.
Mistake 4: Removing Ice from Trees
Don’t try to remove ice from tree branches; you’ll cause even greater damage. It's best to leave the tree alone and wait for the temperatures to rise. Snow, on the other hand, can be removed by gently shaking it off the branches of trees and shrubs. Work carefully and slowly to avoid breaking the branches.
Mistake 5: Over-Applying Deicing Salt
If you have a driveway or walkway to clear, avoiding deicing salt completely is not always possible, but apply as little as necessary to melt ice and only apply it where it is needed. Deicing salt that lands on soil around trees, shrubs, perennials, and lawn, as well as salt runoff, can cause plant dehydration and challenging soil problems. Don’t pile salt-laden snow and ice near plants.
Mistake 6: Neglecting to Water New Plants
Winter winds and dry air quickly dehydrate young plants. Until the ground freezes, water newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials every week or so if there is not sufficient rain or snowfall.
Mistake 7: Not Checking Stored Tubers and Bulbs
One rotting tuber or bulb can ruin an entire stored collection. Check stored tubers and bulbs every couple of weeks. Look for soft spots, slime, or unpleasant odors, which indicate potential decay. Remove any compromised tubers or bulbs.
Taken from https://www.bhg.com/winter-gardening-mistakes
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

Mezoo which I have had here before

Golden Cascade, new 

Clouds are back, temperature is to be warm today at 38F(3C) but it will be cloudy so for me the greenhouse will not be as warm as if the sun was coming out.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends, I do believe had rain yesterday which is well needed. It looks like it is still raining.  They have a severe weather alert of Riverine Flood.  I will have to ask Evelyn what that is? Their temperature will be mild at 69F(20C).  Stay dry, stay safe. 
 
Here are two more plants I will be growing this season.  The Mezoo I have had in the past, and it is a great trailing plant.  It is a succulent so easy to care for.  The grower had added another variety to this species.  Golden Cascade Artenia.  More plants for you to think about having in your garden or containers. 
​
Mezoo trailing red bloom
Mezoo is a unique, low-growing plant prized for its succulent-like foliage, trailing habit, and subtle daisy-style flowers.  With proper care, Mezoo delivers season-long texture, steady growth, and a clean, controlled look that works beautifully in both containers and the landscape.
Mezoo is a sprawling, trailing plant known for its versatility and adaptability in both indoor and outdoor settings. The stems can grow an average of 12–24 inches in length in a season, making it an excellent choice for cascading over the edges of pots, hanging baskets, or decorative containers. Its compact yet vigorous growth habit allows it to fill spaces effectively without becoming invasive.
The leaves of Mezoo are semi-succulent, thick, and glossy, with a texture that helps the plant retain moisture in warmer climates. Each leaf features a striking variegated pattern, with bright green centers and creamy-white margins that lend a lively, luminous quality to the plant's appearance, even when it is not in bloom. This variegation makes Mezoo a standout in mixed planters, adding contrast to other foliage plants.
 
Golden Cascade Aptenia
The Golden Cascade Aptenia is a vibrant, golden chartreuse variety known for its drought-tolerant and heat-loving nature. It is an excellent choice for hanging baskets, container combinations, window boxes, borders, and rock gardens. This plant thrives in full sun and can also tolerate part sun and full shade, making it versatile for various garden settings.
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