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I have been working with Save the Sound, lobbying for funding of projects to mediate stormwater in order to improve the quality of the Long Island Sound watershed, which encompasses all of Connecticut. There are many types of projects that are being considered.

Permeable pavers are relatively new to our industry in the US. They are manufactured like traditional concrete pavers, but the tabs on the sides of the pavers are larger, and the aggregate material used between and underneath the pavers is chip (not as readily interlocking like process gravel). There are currently exemptions of permeable pavers from impervious surface (areas where water can't drain freely) calculations offered in many areas, with others looking to do the same. There is also talk of them being taxed at the lower rate of asphalt to encourage developers to "do the right thing."

Rooftop gardens, the trendiest type being green roofs, bioswales and rain gardens both use plants to slow down and filter water. The largest economic benefit to both municipalities as well as private owners is that underground drainage can often be costly, and both options offer a viable eco-friendly solution.

It seems that millions of dollars in grant money will soon be available.   If you're interested, please note that the list of contractors and designers will be limited to those with memberships to their appropriate trade organizations.

Want to learn more? As always, we'll gladly address any questions or concerns to the best of our ability!

-Darryl 

Pieris japonica 'Flaming Silver'

It's a slow grower that will eventually reach about 5' tall and wide which makes it easy to use as a foundation plant, in the mixed border, in island beds or in the woodland garden.  It is also a nice addition to the Japanese garden mixing perfectly with Japanese Maples and dwarf conifers. Andromeda can struggle in full-sun sites leaving them susceptible to pests like Lacebug so find a partly shaded site with slightly moist well-drained soil. Take care that it's not too moist a site - many suffer from wet feet - especially 'Brower's Beauty'.  They also benefit from amending the soil with compost. Start them off with some Holly-Tone or PHC 3-4-4 for acid loving plants and for best results feed them each year thereafter.  We have some nice 'Flaming Silver' in 3 gallons at the moment.

Stop in and pick up some of these PC Grown, low-maintenance gems! 

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Sheffield Pink Crysanthemum

common name: Sheffield Daisy 

size: 30-36" in flower 
interest: Fall blooming pink flower
culture: Full sun, heavy feeders 

time of year: Fall
companion plants: Miscanthus 'Adagio' and other ornamental grasses, Dwarf Blue Spruce 

One of the last to make a big splash in the perennial garden. Sheffield Daisy is a long lived 'Mum' with spreading low foliage. You can pinch these back several times if you want to delay bloom or encourage more buds, but only up to July. They are heavy feeders so PHC for Flowers 12-16-12 during the growing season would guarantee abundant bloom. Since they flower late in the season, put off cutting them down until early spring.  

They are also a good choice for container plantings, the cutting garden and massed for big fall impact. 

Meadowbrook - Container Production

Where

What: Prepare for the 3a Pesticide Supervisory License Test
When: 6 classes, Tuesdays; Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb. 7, & 14,  2012, 3:00 pm sharp!
Where: Planters' Choice Newtown Sales Office
Cost: $150.00 non-refundable 

Zelkova serrata 'Green Vase'

Enjoy a Great Fall Weekend!

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