'INSPIRATIONS' Magazine March 2018

INSPIRATIONS Early Spring 2018

Four Season Solutions for Home & Garden

PURPLE

Reign

& More of 2018's Top Garden & Lifestyle Trends

A Healthy Bay Starts with You Houseplants for Any Room New Spring, New Landscape

your food is here.

Naturally grown right here in the Chesapeake Bay Food Shed.

100% Biodegradable Fiber Container supports healthier root structure and reduces transplant shock.

Plant directly in the ground - pot & all!

No recycling required!

50 varietes of locally grown, bay-friendly 3.5" herbs and veggies.

NEW for 2018 and available exclusively at Homestead Gardens.

For more information about Chesapeake Harvest plus healthy recipes from local chefs and eco-friendly growing tips visit ChesapeakeHarvest.com.

INSPIRATIONS Early Spring 2018

to my fellow gardeners...

Every year about this time, our team reflects on our prior year’s effort and we explore all the accomplishments and opportunities to serve you better. As we begin our 45th year, we are very committed to being the best and I’d like to share with you a few things to expect at Homestead Gardens. Many would agree that continual improvement is hard to maintain, but our excellent team is always finding ways to make our family a part of yours. You will find many of these ideas becoming reality in this edition of Inspirations.

Chesapeake Harvest - It’s not a coincidence that we featured this exciting product launch on our inside cover. After over a year of planning and evaluation, we’ve decided to overhaul our Herb & Veggie program. Our customers demand the very best and Chesapeake Harvest will be an excellent addition.

Not only will this provide a more sustainable and healthy selection, it will support our local farms and restaurants. These plants will be grown naturally in our greenhouses using the best seeds and nutrients that protect our watershed. Our goal was to provide you something that was full of flavor, good for the environment and support for our local farms. I believe we have succeeded and hope you will take a closer look.

Brian Riddle

President & CEO, Homestead Gardens

<<

When you visit one of our stores this spring, you will find many new products and services in all areas. From the Garden Coach program and our Landscaping team, to our new Garden Academy – we are implementing changes to help make your garden even more beautiful and rewarding.

Please let us know if we can help you learn more.

Homestead Gardens is excited to partner with Chesapeake Harvest and Tidal Creek Growers to bring our customers with an eco-friendly herb and vegetable line. This spring, you'll find 50 varieties of herbs and vegetables grown in a 100% biodegradable pot. This means less waste and less work – you can plant the pot directly in the ground!

In Store Davidsonville, Maryland 743 W. Central Avenue ph: 410.798.5000 Severna Park, Maryland 522 Ritchie Highway ph: 410.384.7966

Homestead Gardens was founded in 1973 by Don Riddle, Jr. Homestead Gardens landmark garden center and nursery is nestled among the rolling countryside of Davidsonville, Maryland and is the largest enclosed garden center in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Editor in Chief / Art Director: Rachel Edler Graphic Design: Joyce Boos Advertising Sales: rachel@homesteadgardens.com

Online HomesteadGardens.com /homesteadgardens @homesteadgardens @homesteadgrdns

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 1

contents INSPIRATIONS Early Spring 2018

8

16

4

Custom Containers as Easy as 1-2-3

6

Garden Success Starts Here

8

Houseplants for Any Room

10

2018 Garden & Lifestyle Trends

16

New Spring, New Landscape

20

New Chicken Parent Checklist

22

Spring into Seed Starting

26

A Healthy Bay Starts with You

30

Coupons & Calendar of Events

Container plantings are an investment in your home and landscape creating an inviting atmosphere both indoors and out.

Meet with the Garden Coach to Improve your Garden Game Bring the outdoors IN with houseplants for every room in your home – kitchen, bedroom and beyond!

This year’s garden trends focus on ways to rebuild mental wellness through nature.

Homestead's Landscape Design experts walk you through the planning process to start fresh with your landscape this season.

Chickens make great pets and they're nesting in backyards across the nation...

Spring brings everything alive, but why wait to start gardening until then? Jumpstart your garden indoors.

Learn how you can make a difference in preserving the health of the Chesapeake with environmentally friendly gardening choices.

Learn what’s happening at Homestead Gardens and take advantage of exclusive savings for Garden Rewards members.

Not a member? Not a problem - join for FREE today!

10 26 2 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Homestead Gardens

your

is

garden center

Easy Solutions | Best Product Selection | Educated Staff | Central Location

garden rewards New & Improved for your Convenience

»» »» »»

Earn 2% back with every purchase.

»» »»

Get first notice of special events & sales.

»» »»

Earn Bonus Rewards throughout the year.

Access Garden Rewards exclusive offers... like the coupons on page 30!

When you earn a reward*, get it the next day — no more waiting!

Rewards are as good as cash in our store!

Redeem at your convenience with our extended redemption period — now 1 year!

Join in-store or online & start earning today : HomesteadGardens.com/rewards * Earn 1 (one) point for every dollar you spend in store. Points covert at the rate of 250 points = $5. Points are calculated nightly. If the threshold is reached, points will convert to dollar rewards on your account available the next day.

Visit HomesteadGardens.com/rewards for more information.

NEW in 2018!

In a revived effort to provide our customers with a reliable source for garden education and inspiration, we've launched the HG Garden Academy – an annual series of meetups and weekly workshops!

Turn to page 31 for upcoming meetups and workshops or visit: HomesteadGardens.com/garden-academy inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 3

custom containers as easy as 1-2-3 Let us help you create a one-of-a-kind design

Container plantings are an investment in your home and landscape... creating an inviting atmosphere to both indoor and outdoor living areas. One feature that sets Homestead Gardens apart is the availability of our own Container Specialist to work with you, our customers, to create one-of-a-kind custom container plantings.

1

Choose your Pot. Homestead Gardens offers

one of the largest selections of indoor and outdoor pottery in the area, making it easy to find the perfect container for your new planting! Choose from beautiful glazed ceramic, durable yet lightweight fiberclay, traditional terracotta, or lightweight pottery in a array of sizes to fit any space or style.

2

Choose your Plants. Consult with our in-house

Container Specialist to select plants that not only look great together, but grow well together in your unique space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; taking into account light and watering needs. She will also consider your color preferences and budget as you shop together from Homestead's incredible selection of plants.

3

See it come to Life. After selecting plants for

for

Homestead Gardens

color and texture, work with our Container Specialist one-on-one to create a custom planter that reflects your personal style. When done, you'll leave with a one-of-a-kind design that not only achieves the 'look' you were hoping for, but thrives.

meet

Lennie

Container Specialist Davidsonville With an education and extensive background in art and design, as well as a longtime love of gardening, Lennie feels her work here is the perfect coupling of her interests and talent. Lennie will work with you, one-on-one, to create custom planters that reflect your personal style and are truly works of art.

www.homesteadgardens.com

4 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Lennie has been with Homestead for four years and has designed planters for the Japanese Embassy and Congressional Country Club, as well as countless special events.

Sensational Spillers for Your Containers Tall thrillers and floriferous fillers are easy to pick out as you make your way through the garden center. But don’t forget to add the spillers, too! They are the key to creating abundant container recipes as they cascade over the edges of your hanging baskets and patio pots.

Choose a textural foliage plant for your spiller, a flowering plant that adds a pop of color, or a mix of both. You’ll need 2-3 spiller plants for a 14" container.

In the recipe at right, we’ve paired Angelface® Blue angelonia (use 1) with two spillers: Supertunia® Bordeaux™ petunia (use 2) and Illusion® Emerald Lace sweet potato vine (use 1). As the spillers mature through the summer months, their bountiful foliage and flowers will soften the lines of the container.

HOMESTEAD GARDENS’ FAVORITE SPILLERS

SUPERBELLS® LEMON SLICE® Calibrachoa

SILVER FALLS™ Dichondra

‘Sweet Caroline Light Green’ Ipomoea

Sweet Caroline Raven Ipomoea

Goldilocks Lysimachia

SUPERTUNIA® Mini Bright Pink Petunia

SUPERTUNIA® Mini Rose Veined Petunia

SUPERTUNIA® BORDEAUX ™ Petunia

LEMON CORAL™ Sedum

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 5

The Garden Coach's

top plays. xxKeep it contained...

Don't mess with cumbersome sticks, strings or wire cages again! Peacock Plant Supports are great for keeping plants in their place and looking tidy!

With completely interchangeable stakes, rings, borders and grids, they are perfect for all types of plants, small or large.

Even better, they can be put in place any time of year without damaging the plant! See the entire collection at Homestead.

xxMaintain hydration...

One of the most important lines of defense for what may be a hot and dry summer is proper mulching. Not only will mulch help prevent weeds and keep a plant's roots cool, best of all,it will help conserve moisture in the soil. I recommend Maryland Select Shredded Hardwood Mulch – Homestead Gardens' very own blend.

Learn more on the next page.

xx

Focus on fundamentals...

To give your plants the best possible start, we recommend Espoma Bio-tone® Starter Plus. This all-natural fertilizer is combined with a stronger concentration of beneficial bacteria and both endo and ecto mycorrhizae. Bio-tone will increase root mass and help avoid transplant loss in difficult planting conditions. PLUS it promotes bigger blooms!

xxBe prepared...

Designed to be the ultimate multi tool in your garden, a hori hori knife can be used for just about any garden task — digging, trenching, planting, cutting, and even popping the top off a cold one! We think you'll find Barebones' Hori Hori knife to be your new favorite go-to garden tool, same as we do.

6 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

GARDEN SUCCESS

starts here.

Meet with the Garden Coach to Improve your Garden Game Great coaches give their players direction and motivation to help them reach their goals. They provide leadership and an organized plan to encourage their team to achieve success. The Garden Coach experience incorporates these same principles towards the practice of creating and maintaining successful gardens.

The Garden Coach experience is designed for the busy and discerning homeowner who might be short on time and uncertain about how to best improve their home’s landscape. Each client receives personalized, oneon-one attention from a Homestead horticulturist or landscape designer.

We focus on each client’s definition of a successful garden and provide all the information, plant material and installation services that are needed to achieve their garden goals.

How would you like an hour of personal one-on-one coaching with a Homestead horticulturist or landscape designer?

BOOK

today.

Learn more about the Garden Coach program and book your one-on-one coaching online at HomesteadGardens.com/COACH

meet

NATE

Horticulturist & Garden Goach When it comes to landscaping, Nate encourages his Garden Coach clients to think in phases. He claims "no good or great garden is created, experienced or enjoyed all at once". By working with Nate, you will be sure to enjoy the process, and of course, the end results.

Kitchen The hub of many homes, kitchens are all about practicality more often than not. f you’re looking for small table-top décor or plants that do double duty, look no further. b. Rosemary & herbs

a.

Add fresh herbs to dishes to enhance flavor, add herbs to flower arrangements, or dry and store for later use.

Fern

Help clear out toxins and odors in the air with this fern on NASA's list of top 10 plants to clean the air.

c. Orchid

b.

Add color and serenity to your bathroom to transform it into a room you can unwind in.

Light: Medium Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

b.

ZZ Plant

bathroom is perhaps the best-suited place for many houseplants. Add small plants to a windowsill or shelf that will also absorb moisture — here are our picks. a. Boston

c.

Light: Full Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

a.

Bathroom The warm, humid air of the

Light: Full Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

a. c. Gerbera

c.

Daisy

b. Peace

Lily

When things get busy in the kitchen this plant can handle being ignored for a little while.

The show-stopping color of this favorite will light up any kitchen counter or island.

This air purifying plant is easy to handle and will add instant beauty to your bathroom.

Light: Low-Full Sun Soil Needs: Moist

Light: Indirect Sun, all-day Soil Needs: Well-drained

Light: Full Sun Soil Needs: Moist

house plants

for any room Bring the outdoors IN with houseplants for every room in your home.

Houseplants have various shapes, sizes and uses – including purifying the air and brightening your mood. It’s definitely a win-win. We have created a guide to help you match your needs with the perfect plant. What room of yours needs a little sprucing up? Let’s get started! b.

a. Ivy

c. Pothos

a.

b. Fiddleleaf

Fig

Dramatic lines and texture will help draw the eye to any area of your living room.

This air purifying plant is very easy to handle and requires little care to maintain its vigor .

This popular ficus will be the focus of any room. It grows straight up and with careful pruning, will be a little tree.

Light: Full Shade Soil Needs: Well-drained

Light: Medium Sun Soil Needs: Moist

Light: Medium-Full Sun Soil Needs: Moist

a.

c.

c.

b.

b. Aglaonema

a.

Available in a variety of colors that will last with little maintenance, this plant can help showcase your space.

This palm will grow big and tall, so add it to your floor display wherever you need a little color.

Grow in a container to help purify the air while adding dramatic height and texture to your décor.

Light: Medium, Indirect Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

Light: Full Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

Light: Full Sun Soil Needs: Well-drained

Bedroom The bedroom is your place to

relax and unwind. Houseplants will help purify the air and add serenity to your space. We recommend these top air-purifying plants.

8 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Bamboo Palm

c. Corn

Plant

Living Room The living room is

where the whole family comes together. Incorporate some living décor to add a healthy dose of beauty to your home. Literally.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

african

daisy

Osteospermum Serenity™ Bronze

From pots, to garden beds and borders, this versatile plant is bursting in blooms for a long lasting display of color...

Although their petals look like the common daisy, their colors are out of this world. If you're looking for a pop of unique color in your garden bed or container planting this spring, look no further than the African daisy. Keep an eye on this one – a unique feature that sets this plant apart is that the petals will open and close with the sun!

Exposure: Osteospermum will bloom more profusely in full sun.

However, keep in mind that this plant is a cool-season bloomer, so it will appreciate some shade in warmer weather.

Osteospermum Serenity™ Dark Purple

Bloom Time: Expect repeat blooms from May through fall, although flowering diminishes and can come to a complete standstill during hot, dry weather.

Care: When grown as an annual, African daisies need some supplemental fertilizer every 2 - 3 weeks, especially when grown in a container. Homestead Gardens recommends Espoma Organic® Bloom! Super Blossom Booster.

Osteospermum Serenity™ Rose Magic

Osteospermum Zion™ Copper Amethyst

Osteospermum Zion™ Blue Denim

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 9

2018 garden & lifestyle

TREN

Nature’s Rx for Mental Wellness

Today’s society puts a lot of pressure on people to stay connected. With the ability to access information at the touch of our fingertips and the 24/7 cycle of social media and online news, it’s like we never turn off. And the constant flux of news can induce anxiety at any time.

The World Health Organization predicts anxiety will be the leading health issue, outranking obesity by 2020.

To combat this issue, surround yourself with plants and introduce high-protein plants into your diet to improve your mental wellness.

This year’s garden trends focus on ways to rebuild mental wellness through nature. Let’s dive in:

10 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

DS climate controlled Devastating images of natural disasters from across the country tell us our ecosystems are stressed.

And with climate conditions drastically changing year after year, gardeners no longer have historical data to rely on. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to embrace the change, instead of trying to fight it. There is a renewed demand for hardy, weather-tolerant plants that will help gardens become happy and healthy again.

Read on for four climate-controlled garden types that we recommend for stress-free planting and maintenance.

1

Gone with the Wind. Storms are only getting worse. According

to the National Weather Center, 2017 was one of the deadliest and most destructive hurricane seasons yet. Even if your garden didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get hit directly, high winds and rising sea levels toppled trees, uprooted plants and spread disease.

Wind Resistant Gardens include plants with flexible stems and small, narrow leaves such as native grasses, evergreen trees, lavender, yarrow and stonecrop.

Planting large trees and shrubs can block the high winds and protect your investments.

2

Gardens that Rock. Drought hit the country hard in 2017.

Maryland even matched a record temperature of 97 degrees this past June. It hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been this hot since 1956. Thirsty and hot gardens need to be updated with better-suited plants.

Desert Gardens include drought- and salt-tolerant plants, such as date palm, euphoria, fennel, irises and poppies. Taller plants like Blue Ice Cypress and Carolina Sapphire Cypress can provide shade. Cacti and succulents are slow growing and popular with Millennials. Homestead Gardens Drought Tolerant collection has a variety of plants perfect for these conditions.

Photo courtesy of Proven Winners www.provenwinners.com

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 11

2018 garden & lifestyle TRENDS

3

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Get Bogged Down. Excessive rain saturates soil, suffocates roots, breaks plants and attracts pests. The same way humans drown in too much water, plants can too.

Joe Pye Weed

Rain Gardens plants that survive periodic flooding and drought include natives, such as black chokeberry, summersweet , Joe-Pye weed, and sweetbay magnolia. Reduce water runoff by using absorbent soils and pervious surfaces, edging puddles and creating paths through low-lying areas with sand or stones.

4

Ice, Ice Baby. Freezing can cause branches to break and limit

water to roots. Frost may cause leaves to appear water-soaked, shriveled, or brown or black, but plants may still be saved. This winter the east coast was hit with a bitter cold. Thankfully, we survived it, but some of our gardens may not have. Plants will need extra help this spring getting back in shape.

Freeze-Proof Gardens include cold-hardy trees such as Eastern Red Cedar, spruces, birch, and maples as well as hellebores, sedge and hosta plants. Add a blanket of mulch, compost and leaves to protect roots. Gently shake snowladen plants and avoid using salt near garden beds.

Gardeners around the Chesapeake Bay are focused on maintaining and reintroducing regional native plants to help gardens survive in their climate.

Learn more about gardening in the Chesapeake Bay on page 26.

breathing room

GAP Photos/Richard Bloom

We all crave privacy at one point or another, a spot where we can just sit and relax and not be bombarded with a constant stream of news and information.

Thankfully, breathing rooms are the answer.

People spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors, where VOCs (volatile organic compounds) accumulate. VOCs can sometimes be in high enough quantities in a home, new or old, where you can actually smell them. Combatting this issue is important for our physical health as well as our mental well-being.

Create a breathing room filled with air-purifying houseplants to keep harmful toxins from entering bodies and to help clear minds.

Research from the State University of New York reaffirms that plants help us breathe easier indoors, which leads to better health and well-being. Air-purifying houseplants can remove up to 80 percent of common VOCs. Building your own breathing room is quite simple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and adds a design element that makes your room truly stand out.

12 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Choose houseplants with different kinds of foliage to set various heights and colors to your room.

top tips

for building a breathing room Hang herbs over your kitchen sink for instant meal appeal.

Introduce hanging gardens to your room if there is no space on your shelves. They draw attention and allow you to maximize your space.

Create a green canopy Add an element of Zen to your with palms, ferns, philo- room for ultimate relaxation by dendrons, rhipsalis and adding a space for meditation, other leafy plants. reflection and relaxation.

For ideas to help you choose the right plant for the right space, refer to the handy guide on page 8 — or visit one of our stores and talk with one of our knowledgeable associates.

social

networks Just as people utilize the benefits of networking, plants in gardens benefit from networking amongst themselves.

It’s time to start thinking of our gardens as social networks instead of as objects in a sea of mulch.

Imagine walking through a forest and you will see every inch of ground covered in a mosaic of interlocking plants. The goal is for everyone’s gardens to start working in harmony the same way nature does.

Choosing plants that work in harmony allows management of the garden instead of maintenance of each plant, which makes gardening less stressful. Plant communities, once established, are more for enjoyment and less for yard work. (continued on next page...)

GAP Photos/Charles Hawes

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 13

2018 garden & lifestyle TRENDS

Why Oak?

Doug Tallamy, professor at University of Delaware, believes the cornerstone tree on most people’s property should be an oak and a great choice is the White Oak. Not only is the White Oak the state tree of Maryland, but it is also best at supporting the food webs that run our ecosystems.

Tallamy is often asked why the habitats preserved within parks are not enough to save most species from extinction. Quite simply, the area required to sustain biodiversity needs to be similar to the area that generated it in the first place. As we develop more and more natural areas, we must start to share our built landscapes with the natural world or it will disappear. Planting oaks at home is one of the best ways to do that.

Adopt this idea by opting out of lawns and pristine-looking gardens, and adding plants that work in harmony. Opt for 'green mulch'where there is bare soil. (continued from page 13)

'Green mulch' options that do well in our area may include natives such as golden groundsel, foamflower, woodland stonecrop or one of the many sedges. Combine orange butterfly weed with one of many low grasses such as prairie dropseed or Mexican feathergrass and enjoy watching as they balance each other out.

Foamflower

Woodland Stonecrop

Photo courtesy of North Creek Nurseries, Inc.

Learn more about Doug's philosophy in his book Bringing Nature Home: How Native Plants Sustain Wildlife in Our Gardens – available at Homestead Gardens this spring for $19.95.

purple reign

Golden Groundsel

Purple is the new color of health and mental health awareness for 2018, mirroring the Pantone® 2018 Color of the Year “Ultra Violet.”

Purple goes beyond the vibrant color and often indicates nutrient density and antioxidants in food. Antioxidants and anthocyanins help fight cancer, have anti-aging benefits, reduce obesity and protect your heart.

Introduce purple into your diet in the easiest way possible – grow it! Planting purple foods at home will drive you to eat more purple and add radiant color to your garden. Purple plants can be anything from eggplant and purple cabbage to new compact blueberry and blackberry plants by Bushel and Berry™.

These shrubs are easy to grow anywhere in the garden as they don’t need much space. Plant two or three of them together and enjoy as your berries start to come in.

Have a bigger space to fill in your garden? Grow your own fruit trees! Hollybrook Orchards’ fruit trees add purple to your yard and your diet.

14 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

our top picks

President Plum Stanley Plum Brown Turkey Fig Concord Grape King of the North Grape Assorted Blackberries

for a healthy 2018

Our nursery features a vast selection of purple fruit trees and shrubs by Hollybrook Orchards. Grown in the MidAtlantic and shipped direct to our stores, you're guaranteed a plant acclimated to your growing conditions! Look for the Hollybrook Orchards tag for our top picks for a healthy and fresh 2018.

When thinking about fruit trees that bear purple fruit, plums and figs are some favorites! With their rich, juicy insides and deep purple skins, they offer a ton of nutritional benefits. Plums provide the body with Vitamin A, which helps ease digestion. And figs are full of anti-oxidents and phyto-nutrients which aid the body in fighting off disease.

If you need help getting started, check out the mini issue of Inspirations all about edible gardening, coming out in early April. It is the perfect way to get your hands into the garden.

But don’t let your vegetable garden steal all the beauty...

Proven Winners® 2018 Annual of the Year, the Supertunia® Bordeaux™ Petunia, is a gorgeous twotoned purple flower with dark veining. Plant it in a container, hanging basket, or in your landscape and watch it bloom with fury.

Another great choice for adding that pop of purple into your garden is Serenity™ Dark Purple Osteospermum, also known as African Daisy. They are non-stop bloomers from planting to frost, bringing beautiful color to your garden at all times. For those who have issues with deer eating plants, this is the flower for you! This easy-to-grow flower is deer resistant and drought tolerant. Plant it in a cool-season container to give it life all year long. Turn to page 9 for more information about growing African daisies.

^ Brown Turkey Fig This fruit has a beautiful purple, brown and green exterior. They are mild flavored and delicious sliced on a sandwich, stuffed with goat cheese or paired with cured meats!

^ Proven Winners® 2018 Annual of the Year Supertunia® Bordeaux™

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 15

NEW SPRING, NEW

landscape As another spring begins and we emerge from winter, there is a strong feeling of wanting something new and fresh in the landscape.

Whether you’re looking to completely transform your landscape or simply bored or frustrated with what you currently have, it’s important to start with a plan.

think about what you want to grow. Think about planning your plants, too. This will ensure you don’t accidently put noxious plants next to your rare perennials.

Landscape design experts from Homestead can get you started fresh this season.

Think about what colors you want to bring into the garden.

A serenity garden full of soft hues of blues, greens, purples and yellows is beautiful. Having an idea of what plants and colors complement each other and the surrounding scape will help choose what plants to grow.

Start with a Plan Begin by creating a list of your wants for your property. Need a pop of color or more curb appeal? Does your backyard need screening from the nosey neighbor or do you want a bigger patio for entertaining? Maybe a gorgeous water feature that makes your friends jealous?

Be sure to think about the bones of your yard. A well-designed garden has good bones. Adding semi-permanent structures, such as walkways, rock walls, patios, or fountains will shape your landscape and set the tone even as the flowers and vegetables change throughout the seasons.

Then, think about the size and shape of your yard – are you a beginner or are you simply trying to utilize every inch of outdoor space?

Next, outline your garden plan. Whether you simply want flowers and vegetables or you know the specific natives, pollinator-plants or those that are Bay-friendly, it’s time to

16 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

And don’t forget trees! Make a list of your favorite trees, plants and shrubs that you’d like to add. Be sure to keep the growing and flowering characteristics in mind. If you need ideas, check out local magazines and books for inspiration.

Once you have those ideas in place, it’s time to be more detail oriented. The most important thing is to have fun with the elements you want.

Feel free to change it around until you are happy with the end results. It will be a lot more difficult to change the plan once the work has begun.

Put the Plan to Paper

Breaking Ground

Draw out a detailed site plan as accurately as possible.

Include sidewalks, driveways, and an outline of the house and other permanent structures. Outline any utility lines that run underground, in order to avoid problems down the road.

Now it’s time to begin. If you haven’t consulted with a landscape designer yet, it makes sense to sit down with the team and talk over your plans. Do the property walk-through again, too, describing your reasons for adding a water feature or privacy screen.

take it to the next

level.

An automatic underground irrigation system ensures the investment you’ve made in your landscape plus, it: • Eliminates the need to drag around a garden hose.

• Efficiently waters your lawn and plants for proper growth and water savings.

• Provides peace of mind and time-savings with auto scheduling and hands-off operation.

Take the items you want to add and start sketching them into your site plan.

If you’re playing around with a few ideas, use transparent sketch paper so you can try multiple layouts. Try to sketch them out “to scale” to ensure you can fit everything into your landscape. Think about what elements will complement each other and how it will all look near existing structures and fences.

au

be

Landscape lighting is not only beautiful and inviting, it: • Extends the use of your landscape into the evening.

• Increases the safety and security of your home.

• Enhances your curb appeal and home value.

.

ee by da r f re

y.

ca

Think about where the sun hits at which times of the day and where there is no sun at all. When you look outside your windows, what do you want to see?

Once you start the landscaping process, pay attention to every detail. At Homestead, our crews of highly skilled and experienced employees implement your design in an efficient and professional manner. Your designer will be in close contact with the installation crew throughout the installation to facilitate the process. (continued on next page...)

tifu

ht

Consider how the elements you are adding in will affect each other. Establishing different spaces for different uses allows your garden to be structurally different while creating flow through your design.

l by n i g

^ Homestead Gardens Landscape Division trusts Atlantic Lighting & Irrigation to design, install and service underground irrigation systems and landscape lighting for our clients. Their staff is highly trained, certified and great with our homeowners.

Contact them to ensure your investment in your landscape, 410.721.4070 or online at www.atlantic-irrigation.com.

If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to bring a professional landscape designer in at this phase. Their professional opinion for your space, climate and location will ensure your vision becomes a reality and a success. They will make sure your landscape is helping your property value, too. Homestead Gardens Landscape Division is up to the task! With professional landscape designers on staff, many of whom are certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professionals, we are sure to help you create a space that you love..

Take Your Ideas off the Page Now it’s time to walk your yard! Spend time in the spaces you have sketched out. Can you envision them as you have planned? Place markers to help visualize it in person. Use stakes and strings or even rocks to outline your areas.

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 17

Upon completion of your project, your designer will set up a time to walk through the job to be sure everything was done to your satisfaction. We will also at this time provide care instructions to get you off to a good start.

Now the Fun Begins But the fun doesn’t stop there. After the project is complete, it is time to accessorize!

From comfortable couches, to relaxing hammocks, the outdoor area is now, more than ever, an extension of your home. It’s easy to show off your personality with a few outdoor staples that will have your friends and family begging for an invitation.

Replace old tables and chairs with durable sets made from all-weather wicker, aluminum or wrought iron. Accentuate your wonderful meal with dining sets that look as good as the food you’re about to experience. Combine glasses, plates and centerpieces of varying heights to add texture and visual interest to your table.

Finally, illuminate your new space with the soft glow of lights.

FEATURED PROJECT

(continued from page 17)

CROWNSVILLE

Residence

Homestead's Landscape Division set out to design and build a backyard escape in Crownsville for homeowners seeking a focal point and the soothing sound of water.

Janey Martinez, one of Homestead's in-house designers, beautifully incorporated a water feature with waterfall into the landscape using its natural grade.

Janey designed the new feature with the existing screened-in porch in mind. Now the family can enjoy their new landscape nine months out of the year!

Having a beautiful space to live in and enjoy is worth the time and effort you put into the yard and Homestead Gardens is here to help.

Homestead Gardens’ Landscape Division can help plan, design and plant your new landscape. We have experts on-hand to answer any questions – and provide a quality experience to enjoy for years to come. Visit Landscape.HomesteadGardens.com or call 410.867.6336 to start planning your new outdoor space today!

18 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Beverly, the homeowner writes of the experience, saying:

meet

Janey

Certified Landscape Designer

Homestead Gardens Landscape Division Janey has been with Homestead Gardens for a number of years and continues to enjoy the challenge of each new project.

Growing up in northern Ohio and moving to Maryland, she is always in awe of the warmer and longer seasons, and the extended plant palette that allows her to design outdoor rooms and living spaces that reflect each individual customer’s lifestyle. Bringing the awareness of all senses and personal needs and visions into the landscape is her goal for a successful landscape design.

“[I am writing] to praise your design and your onsite team, led so well by Edwin… We are just delighted at how it came out. You are all, quite simply, artists by creating such a beautiful setting.”

SUPERTUNIA BORDEAUX™ Petunia ®

PRIMO™ ‘BLACK PEARL’ Heuchera

SPILLED WINE

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Weigela

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 19

new chicken

parent checklist Increased demand for fresh eggs, organic compost and a friendly feathered friend has led more people to keeping their own chickens.

Raising chickens isn’t rocket science, but there are a few things you need to know before getting started.

First, be sure to check local ordinances. Unless you live on a farm or ranch, there may be regulations you need to know about. Most residential areas limit the number of hens you can have per acre and ban roosters. Not a problem though – hens will still lay eggs without them!

Laws all checked out? Now it’s time to get started raising chickens.

Chickens make great pets and they’re nesting in backyards across the nation...

3

Order Up. Yes, chickens will happily eat

insects, slugs, snails, seeds and sand in your backyard, but you still have to supplement with a balanced chicken feed. There are different feeds depending on the age of your chickens. One of our Farm and Pet associates can help you determine the right feed for your chickens.

4

Drink Up. If you want consistent laying, you

need to be sure chickens have an adequate amount of water at all times. Chickens will go out of production and often start to fight each other if they don’t have enough water.

5

Have fun! Chickens are a delight to engage

with and have in your yard. Soon you will have made friends and even care for them as if they were your own children.

Homestead Gardens is your one-stop shop for all things chickens. We have experts on hand to answer any questions or provide advice. Get started today on this fast-growing and rewarding hobby!

Checklist for first-time chicken parents:

1

Provide Housing. A coop provides shelter

for the chickens, but it will also be in your yard.

Think about aesthetics and size before buying.

Start with something basic and add onto it if you feel up to a challenge.

2

Choose Chickens. Chickens are as varied

as people. Different breeds will look different, be varied in size, have different personalities, lay a variety of egg colors and can withstand different types of elements. Talk to someone in our Farm and Pet department about which breed suits your needs. For a complete list of breeds available at Homestead this spring, visit HomesteadGardens.com/chicks.

20 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

ready to get started?

New Chick Owner Workshop March 22, 11am in Davidsonville March 23, 11am in Severna Park

>>

$85 registration

Includes brooder starter kit

<<

& exclusive coupon!

Register online at HomesteadGardens.com/events

For help getting started with chickens, visit HomesteadGardens.com, or call us at 410-798-5000 to speak with a Farm & Pet expert.

From homeowners to restaurants, raising chickens is becoming more commonplace. We asked why.

why do you raise chickens?

Alison James

Associate, Homestead Gardens Davidsonville

Growing up, Alison's family kept several chickens of all breeds, a pastime she has continued into adulthood. For over 25 years, Alison has enjoyed raising a flock of her own. Although she currently has 9 hens and 1 rooster of various breeds, her favorites are the Buff Orpington and Blue Andalusian. One of the best experiences Alison has had is sharing the responsibility of their care with her young grandson. She

has learned so much about him and his character through his interactations with them.

Alison's chickens are only a part of her sustainability plan. She is learning how to recycle and reuse what is on her property, and the chicken manure will be used to fertilize her garden this spring.

"It's not as hard as you think. You make sure they have food and water every day and you just pay attention to them. They will really help you connect with nature."

Donald Redmiles

to 30 layers of about 20 different breeds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; most purchased from Homestead!

In 2015, local Davidsonville restaurant Killarney House took on the challenge of raising chickens in their garden. They purchased six chickens from Homestead, ready for the challenge and hoping for some farm-fresh eggs. Choosing breeds known for good egg production including Rhode Island Red, Barred Rock, and Light Brahma led to a successful start and the growth of Killarney's little farm-ette.

"The Light Brahma is our favorite because she is so pretty! She is also cold hardy and a reliable egg layer year round," Donald, Killarney's farm manager says. The restaurant's flock is now up

Donald and the Killarney team consider their chickens as garden partners, and they have turned out to be great workers. The staff appreciates their help in tilling up the earth and keeping pests under control. Their manure provides an organic fertilizer for the growing vegetables and they even help reduce the restaurant's waste by eating food scraps.

Farm Manager, Killarney House

Stop by Killarney to enjoy the fruits of their flock's labor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fresh eggs and ingredients from their restaurant garden! You can also follow their farm's SnapChat story for daily updates: @KHouseFarm.

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 21

Spring brings everything alive, but why wait to start gardening until then?

spring The last cold months of winter are a perfect time to make your home and garden greener by starting some seeds for your spring garden. Here are some tips for getting started.

different light needs, we recommend choosing a fixture that will provide the greatest amount of light to keep your plant happy. Make sure to read the labels on your seed packets! Intensity is also determined by the distance the light travels from the fixture to the plant. It is important to place fixtures at the right vertical or horizontal distance so it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t harm fragile seedlings. Consult with an expert in our Modern Homesteading Department for help.

Light and temperature are the two factors that limit growth of seeds during the winter, but by starting them indoors, you're able to control these elements for a successful jump start on your garden. It is best to choose a location that has access to natural light, is well insulated and is heated. In apartments or older homes, this might be tricky as poorly insulated windows may cause variable temperatures that could hinder the growth of seedlings. If relying solely on natural light, choose a spot that is away from drafty windows but still accessible to natural light. If this cannot be accommodated, artificial lighting can assist.

Artificial full spectrum lights can be used instead of, or in combination with, natural light to provide the varying types of light that seedlings need to grow. Fluorescent lights combine cool white and warm yellow lights to achieve this, and LEDs use different colors - red and purple in most fixtures. A light's intensity is, in part, determined by the wattage of the fixture and since each plant has

22 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

things we

dig.

for a successful start

SunBlasterâ&#x201E;˘ NanoDome This easy-to-use kit includes everything you need to start your veggies, propagate fresh cuttings, or grow fresh herbs right in your kitchen all year long.

Includes: heavy duty 1020 tray, 7" vented NanoDome, & SunBlaster 18" T5HO 6400K Combo lighting kit â&#x20AC;&#x201D;$59.99

into seed starting.

Seedlings started indoors for outdoor gardens have a better chance of survival than seedlings planted directly in the ground. If your plan is to transplant seedlings into a garden outside, make sure to grow the seeds in soil. If seedlings grow too big for their containers before the temperatures are warmer, they will need to be transplanted into larger containers. Don't forget the drainage holes!

However, seedlings grown for an indoor garden are best started in soilless media such as rock wool, coconut coir, vermiculite or perlite. Soilless media allows for clean and easy transplanting indoors and for seedlings to get well established within the structure of the media. To help with this, it is important to cover newly planted seeds with the media itself or another soilless media.

Don’t get discouraged by the shorter days of winter... spring is almost here! If you've already started some seeds, now through early April is the time to take out your seeds and potting soil to start your spring garden. You will thank yourself in the months to follow.

And if you haven't started yet, now is the perfect time to get those tomato and pepper seeds planted!

For more information about indoor gardening, visit the Modern Homesteading department at Homestead Gardens’ Davidsonville store.

Love the Life you Grow™ Shop 32 new varieties available now at Homestead Gardens.

Family Owned Over 600 Varieties Organics • Heirlooms

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 23

2018

OUTDOOR LIVING &

PATIO FURNITURE COLLECTION Experience the look and feel of quality patio furniture in Homestead Gardens' vast Patio Furniture Showroom to make your purchasing decisions easier...

Have it your way.

Customize your outdoor living experience with special order options. Place your order by March 31st to enjoy your new patio furniture before June.

Complimentary assembly.

Your purchase from Homestead Gardens includes white glove assembly of all furniture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; free of charge.

Convenient delivery options.

Our patio consultants will manage your delivery and make every effort to work with your schedule.

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed.

We stand behind our partnered manufacturers and will process any warranty claims on your behalf.

Earn 2% Back.

Garden Rewards members earn 2%+ back with their purchase. Dollar rewards are applied automatically to your account and ready to spend the next day.

Learn more about Garden Rewards membership at: HomesteadGardens.com/rewards

Finish the look... Umbrellas | Outdoor Rugs | All-Weather Pillows | Outdoor Lanterns | DĂŠcor

30% OFF All Patio Furniture & FREE local delivery* *Or enjoy a credit for the value of local delivery. See store for details and fees.

When you purchase or pre-order by April 1st , 2018.

24 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

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This rose seriously knows how to put on a show! Huge, dense blooms adorn dark, clean foliage from late spring through summer, its 3-inch double red blossoms one-upping any other shrub rose in the landscape. This variety creates trophyworthy borders and performs flawlessly in garden beds as well. The Grand Champion™ deserves a spot on your team.

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inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 25

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest coastal body of water in the world and home to more than 3,600 species of animals and plants.

a healthy bay starts with you.

However, the Bay is under constant pressure from surrounding tributaries and waterways that receive unhealthy runoff from roads, developments and commercial farms.

Maryland and Virginia’s ongoing and increased commitment to raise awareness and offer solutions to commerce has helped in part to start healing the Bay. But our individual actions on land can have a vital impact on the Bay’s health.

Bay-friendly gardening continues the trend of the Bay’s health by encouraging residents to make environmentally friendly gardening choices. It is not a particular style, but a mindful approach, that works with nature to reduce waste and protect the Bay. Read on for tips from our experts on how you can made a meaningful contribution in your own backyard.

things we

dig.

for a Bay-Safe Garden

26 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Espoma® Organic 4-Step Lawn Program Espoma has come up with an organic line of lawn care products for every season to ensure kids and pets are safe on the lawn.

However, the benefits extend beyond the safety of your loved ones and to the Bay by reducing harmful runoff. Find their 4-Step program in our Lawn & Garden department.

Being Bay-friendly Starts with Soil Plant physiologist, professor and researcher at University of Maryland, Dr. Frank Gouin, says a healthy Bay starts with healthy soil.

“Healthy soil is active with essential nutrients,” Dr. Gouin explains. “It delivers organic matter slowly, drains well while still retaining moisture.”

According to Dr. Gouin, the simplest method for making soil healthy is to amend soils with organic matter such as compost or Bloom® Soil.

“Bloom provides nutrients in a slow release formula and improves the bulk density of soil, allowing roots to penetrate easily,” he says. “It provides an abundant supply of essential trace elements that are not present in commercial fertilizers.”

In order to know whether your soil needs amending, you need to test it. You can do this by grabbing a stainless steel trowel and digging a sample from 6-8” deep for garden soil, or 4” for lawn soil. You can either use an at-home soil test from Homestead or send your soil sample to your County Extension Office, if you want a professional opinion.

After years of farming, use of chemical pesticides and the quest for perfectly green grass, our soils are depleted of necessary nutrients. Yes, a lush green lawn is the envy of all neighbors, but at what cost?

Getting Our Lawns off Drugs Lawns make up a significant portion of our region, covering more than 3.8 million acres, 9.5 percent of the watershed’s total land area, and produce more runoff than any other piece of land.

According to the EPA, Americans apply 90 million pounds of pesticides every year. Incorrect or over application of these synthetic fertilizers can cause problems like burning plants or worse, runoff.

The first step in achieving a healthy lawn starts, where else? In the soil.

It’s important to understand the different types of fertil-

Bloom® Soil Amendment Bloom, a soil amendment rich in organic matter, is ideal for improving water holding capacity and overall soil structure. It is also an excellent source of both macroand micronutrients, essential in improving plant vigor. Bloom is available in bulk now and will be available in bags later this spring.

Go Native!

One key step in Bay-friendly gardening is choosing plants that are native to our region.

Keep reading for our top picks...

izers before you use them. Synthetic fertilizers are manufactured chemically and are fast acting with a quick hit of nutrients, which offer quick results. Organic fertilizers are made from products readily found in nature and contain one or more essential nutrients for plant growth. They release essential nutrients over time to improve the soil.

Applying organic fertilizers in the proper amount, at the right time of year and using the proper application will reduce the amount of synthetic fertilizers that reaches water bodies.

When we don’t see results right away, or the results fade too quickly, our first instinct is to add more to fix the problem. Unfortunately, over-use of any fertilizer can harm your plants over time, but specifically with synthetic additives. Synthetic fertilizers will kill beneficial microorganisms in the soil. Those synthetic fertilizers that are nitrogen- and phosphate-based can leach into groundwater, causing the water to become polluted and disrupting ecosystems, which is what has happened to the Bay for years.

Organic fertilizers are slow-release, meaning they won’t burn or leach away and you won’t have to mow your grass as often. Plus, they last longer and are safer for the environment. Choose a granulated product that’s easy to spread across a lawn and virtually dust-free, such as Espoma’s lawn care program. Making the switch from a synthetic processed to an organic lawn is easy. Consider people, pets, the Bay and the planet before deciding which kinds of fertilizers you choose.

To find out which organic lawn care program is right for your lawn, speak with one of our associates.

Once you know, it can be as easy as applying organic products in spring, summer, fall and winter. (continued on page 29...)

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 27

®

Bloom® is a Class A biosolids soil conditioner from DC Water that is ideal for use on your lawn and garden. Rich in organic matter and plant nutrients, you can look forward to improved yields and drought resistance in your vegetables, flowers and grass.

Available now at all 3 Homestead Gardens locations Davidsonville & Severna Park retail stores and Homestead Horticultural Supply Learn more

bloomsoil.com

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28 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

Choosing Bay-friendly Plants Another step in Bay-friendly gardening is choosing Bay-friendly plants.

Chesapeake Bay natives allow gardeners to have more success in the garden and help the local ecosystem.

Here are a few of our favorites: < Purple Coneflower

Flowering Dogwood >

Pollinators love this plant. It is a long-lasting perennial that can grow 2-5’ high. This particular coneflower offers the perfect touch of spring with bright lavender flowers.

This is the most popular flowering tree on the East Coast. It grows 20-40’ tall with gorgeous white or pink spring blossoms. The fruit attracts wildlife such as birds and deer.

Eastern Redbud >

^ Cardinal Flower

With a purplish, maroon trunk, this tree provides a show year round. In the spring, the show turns to the clusters of pink flowers that show up before the leaves begin to show. It will grow 15-30’ tall.

< Black Eyed Susan

Attract more hummingbirds into your garden with the cardinal flower. This perennial can grow 2-4’ tall and provide bright red tubular flowers for everyone to enjoy.

Show your Maryland state pride by dedicating a section of your garden – or even your lawn – to a mini-meadow of our state flower. It is excellent for attracting pollinators and will flower from summer through late fall!

Make your garden Bay-friendly this spring! Let Homestead Gardens help you find the right plants for your yard. For a full list of what Homestead Gardens has to offer, visit HomesteadGardens.com or call one of our stores.

things we

dig.

for a Bay-Safe Garden

Crescent Garden TruDrop® Planters Crescent Garden approaches container design with the belief that a pot is more than a mere vessel for your plants, but a HOME for your plants...

Introducing TruDrop Planters, a new self-watering system that makes growing beautiful flowers and healthy edibles easier than ever. But, the benefits extend beyond ease of use, the system makes container gardening more bay-friendly, too!

A BAY

friendly POT.

• Uses 50% less water • Self contained system reduces fertilizer run-off • Lightweight & unbreakable • 100% recyclable materials

inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018 29

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Turn to page 3 to learn more about Garden Rewards membership benefits.

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Limit one coupon per customer per transaction. Coupons must be surrendered to cashier at time of purchase. Coupons cannot be combined with any other offer.

Not applicable towards previous purchases or special orders. Exclusions and restrictions may apply. Coupons may not be reproduced . No cash value. These coupons are exclusive to Homestead Gardens ‘Garden Rewards’ members. If you are not a ‘Garden Rewards’ member you may sign up for free in store or online.Visit www.homesteadgardens.com/offers for more information.

30 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1

2

3

1

2

5

6

7

8

9

March FLOWER SHOW

12

FLOWER SHOW

13

FLOWER SHOW

14

Plant Communities WORKSHOP A Sensible Way Lawn Care: 101 to Garden

19

10a Davidsonville

1ST DAY of SPRING

20

10a Davidsonville

21

FLOWER SHOW

15

16

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Countertop Sprouts 11a Davidsonville

22

11a Severna Park

23

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS New Chicken Ownership: 101

26

27

28

11a Davidsonville

29

3

FLOWER SHOW

10

10a Davidsonville

11a Severna Park

FLOWER SHOW

SUNDAY

4

FLOWER SHOW

11

2018 Garden Trends Gardening for Bees

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Plank Mounted Orchid 11a Davidsonville

SATURDAY

11a Severna Park

30

10a Davidsonville

Gardening with PW DIY Birdseed Wreath 2p Davidsonville

FLOWER SHOW

17

2p Davidsonville

FLOWER SHOW

18

2p Davidsonville

11a Davidsonville

Pictures with the Easter Bunny!

Pictures with the Easter Bunny!

10a Severna Park

10a Davidsonville

24

2

31

2

3

1

2

4

5

6

April

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Veggie Gardening: 101

9

10

11

11a Davidsonville

12

11a Severna Park

13

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Herbs on the Deck with EarthBox®

16

17

18

11a Davidsonville

GIRLS NIGHT OUT 6-9p Severna Park

19

11a Severna Park

20

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Chicken Dust Baths: 101

23

24

25

11a Davidsonville

29

11a Severna Park

ARBOR DAY

27

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Woodland Retreat Terrarium

30

11a Davidsonville

3

CHICKS on the LOOSE

EASTER

1

8

7

Small But Mighty: Small But Mighty: Unleash the Power Unleash the Power of Landscape Plugs of Landscape Plugs 10a Davidsonville

1p Severna Park

14

15

Grow a Better Food Garden

Let’s Grow it Instead of Mow it

10a Davidsonville

1p Severna Park

Pollinator Club: Gardening for MD Butterflies

Pollinator Club: The Humane Gardener

10a Davidsonville

28

May 7

1

3

2

4

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Mixed Medley Containers

8

9

11a Davidsonville

GIRLS NIGHT OUT 6-9p Davidsonville

10

11

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS How to Plant a Rose so it Grows

14

15

16

11a Davidsonville

17

11a Severna Park

18

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Container Water Gardening

21

22

23

11a Davidsonville

24

11a Severna Park

25

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Natural Moss Hanging Basket MEMORIAL DAY

28

29

30

11a Davidsonville

31

11a Severna Park

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11a Severna Park

keep it going.

29

10a Davidsonville

5

6

Landscaping with Roses

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HomesteadGardens.com/garden-academy

1p Severna Park

See the full schedule of meetups, workshops & more: HomesteadGardens.com/events MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

1

Green boxes in the calendar to the left indicate the event is part of our new Garden Academy curriculum!

Join us at one of our weekly workshops or frequent free meetups to sharpen your gardening skills.

For even more scheduled events, visit us online at:

21 EARTH DAY 22

Design a Tree Friendly Space

11a Severna Park

HomesteadGardens.com/flower-show

2

11a Severna Park

3

Learn how your garden, lawn and landscape work in harmony to generate health, wellness and beauty...

25

See the full schedule of meetups, workshops & more: HomesteadGardens.com/events MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1

March 10-18

Organic Gardening Welcome Spring: 10a Davidsonville Into your Kitchen & Food Within Reach Onto Your Table

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Bunny Trail Terrarium 11a Davidsonville

SPRING

Flower SHOW '18

10a Davidsonville

12

MOTHER’S DAY

13

Early Bird Sale 7-9 learn more online

19

20

Pollinator Club: Planning your Pollinator Garden

Pollinator Club: Planning your Pollinator Garden

26

27

10a Davidsonville

31

Killarney House is a great place to keep the conversation going after the presentation. Enjoy an authentic Irish experience over a plate of traditional fare with a homegrown chef-driven twist – made from imported ingredients directly from Ireland with food sourced from local farmers and producers.

1p Severna Park

Early Bird Sale 7-9 learn more online

Keep the conversation going over an authentic meal at our good friends' place right down the street...

proud sponsors of

2 Join us at one of Homestead's many Meetups for an exclusive offer just for HG Garden Academy attendees!

homestead's

Community corner

Champions of the Ag Community Recognizing the important role agriculture plays in our lives and the new opportunities opening in the field, Brian Riddle, CEO of Homestead Gardens, has committed to supporting the revitalization of our agricultural community through leadership, education and sponsorships that help create a sustainable agricultural community and preserve open space.

In September, Brian was appointed Vice Chairman of the Anne Arundel County Agriculture, Farming and Agritourism Commission. This county initiative was created to promote, develop and further agriculture, farming and Agritourism in Anne Arundel County. Brian is an active sponsor of the CASE (Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education) program at Southern High School, donating materials and funds to support their unique programs.

Brian is a strong advocate of the local National FFA chapter, an organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Above: Brian Riddle receives the National FFA Blue & Gold Award, 2017.

Brian was awarded the Blue and Gold award in recognition of his participation and support. Homestead is proud to be one of the 3,000 donors who raised $21 million for national FFA programs and scholarships.

Brian also Chairs the Anne Arundel County Soil Conservation District, a three-way partnership between federal, state and district employees all working together with cooperators to control soil erosion and manage nutrient runoff to protect our water resources.

For more information about Homestead Gardens’ community involvement or to learn more about how we may help your charity, church or school, visit: HomesteadGardens.com/community

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HWP Insurance is a locally owned, agency that has been Chuck Licameli Bob regional Wagnerinsurance Barbara Beavers serving clients in the Mid-Atlantic for over a century on both a local and Employee Benefits Commercial Lines Personal Lines national scale. We offer a complete suite of insurance products – commercial insurance, employee benefits and private client coverages. We are a E s t a b l irecognized shed in 191 6 ‫ ׀‬Practices Howard W . P h i l land ips & C o . ourselves ‫ ׀‬h w p h i l lon i p sproviding .com nationally Best agency pride comprehensive coverage and exceptional service with competitive pricing.

32 inspirations EARLY SPRING 2018

“The joy of seeing the garden reborn, the erosion curtailed, the beautiful plants thriving and seeing the pleasure the residents receive from walking through the Woodland Garden at Ginger Cove, makes it a labor of love for me.”

Carolyn, Ginger Cove Resident Since 2006

To discover Ginger Cove, please call Joan Williams at 410-266-7300.

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gingercove.com • 4000 River Crescent Drive • Annapolis, MD

At Last® Rose: FRAGRANT, CONTINUOUS BLOOMS, LOW MAINTENANCE AND DISEASE RESISTANT Before they reach your garden, our flowering shrubs undergo years of trials and testing for color, fragrance, quantity of blooms, foliage, and ability to thrive with ease. Only a few prove they’re worthy of the #1 plant brand.

provenwinners-shrubs.com

Homestead Gardens, Inc. P.O. Box 189 Davidsonville, MD 21035