Johnsons's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2004
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/newsletter/flowers.html

Bud-Blooming Heathers
Sept/Oct 2004
Jeremy Johnson, Nursery Buyer & Kansas Certified Nursery Professional

    With the heat of summer almost gone (though at times I was beginning
to think we were not going to have a summer at all!), it's time once
again to look at some new plants. After searching long and hard all
summer, I've found a plant that is going to be a big hit in the fall
landscape. We all enjoy good fall color. I simply love mums, and the
newer varieties are longer blooming and much more resilient than
varieties of the past. Pansies are great, as they add so much color
during the months that really nothing else in the landscape is blooming.
What I would like to introduce are the Bud-Blooming Heathers.

    Monrovia Nursery has introduced a line of heathers known
affectionately as the "Garden Girls." The unique feature of these plants
is that they set flower buds, but these buds never open into flowers.
The result is an extremely long "flowering" plant that does not really
even flower. These evergreen plants will provide 12 weeks or more of
color for your landscape.

    'Amethyst' is adorned with purplish-crimson buds from August to
January. The dark green foliage contrasts nicely with the beautiful
buds. This plant offers one of the longest displays of the four
Bud-Blooming Heathers.

    'Annette' has spectacular clear pink buds lasting from August to
December. Bright green evergreen foliage adds another unique flavor to
this, as well as the other bud blooming heathers.

    'Melanie' is the only Garden Girl with white flowers. The long
racemes of white buds continue from August to November.

    'Aphrodite' is very similar to 'Amethyst' and is actually a sport of
this plant. The buds are a bit deeper red, still lasting from August to
January.

    All make wonderful cut flowers, or the flowers may be dried and will
continue to hold their color. I would utilize these plants much like you
would a garden mum for porch decorating or to fill in those tired annual
pots with longer lasting color. Garden Girls Heather makes a great
easy-care gift. If planted outdoors, heathers like a rich, well-drained
soil in a shady location where they will not receive too much afternoon
heat. If you have questions about these or any other plants, e-mail me
at jeremyj@johnsonsgarden.com.