Left-Over Pumpkins
There's an astounding amount of waste generated from post-Halloween pumpkins. Instead of throwing your pumpkins out, why not reuse and recycle them? Here are nine fun and easy suggestions on how. Read more!
The Peculiar Osage Orange
The French settlers called it Bois d’Arc (bow wood) after they found the Osage tribe used the wood to fashion their superior bows. The westward explorers, Lewis and Clark, were reported to be the first to send an Osage orange to Thomas Jefferson. Read more...
Stingy Jack
Did you know that the name, jack-o'-lantern, comes from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack who tried to trick the Devil? Read more!
Arthur A. Shurcliff’s Gift to the Future
An old photo that appeared recently on Facebook triggered a search through the Colonial Williamsburg Archives that led to the discovery of what may be the oldest living tree in this historic city. Read more ...
Vines in Coastal Virginia
Many native vines serve as host plants for specific species of Lepidoptera, whose larvae eat their leaves. Some vine leaves, like grape leaves and certain species of Smilax, common greenbrier, are edible and medicinal. Read more...
Evergreen Camelias for Winter Flowers
The first Camellia shrub usually chooses a stretch of damp, cool October days to burst into bloom. I am always taken by surprise when its luminous white, spring-like blossoms unfold because continue reading...
The Problems with Nandina
What’s the big fuss about Nandina domestica, also known as sacred bamboo? A beautiful and useful plant, it's so tough and versatile that it has been a top pick of landscapers for decades.… Continue reading
Predicting the Weather
According to Greek Mythology, pomegranates are the reason for the change of seasons. You see it’s all Persephone’s fault or is it? Find out here!
Foraging for Autumn Harvests
We are surrounded by delicious food here in Virginia, even in the fall and winter. Whether we choose to feast on it or not, it is good to know what is edible, when, and how to use it. Read more.
New In Town? Almanac
Garden Questions?
Become A Master Gardener!
Registration for classes opened November 1, 2023 and is now closed. More information here.