Mercer Greenhouse Tour

Posted on February 28, 2012 by Linda MacPhee-Cobb

Today members of local garden clubs were able to tour the greenhouses where Mercer grows plants for the gardens and for March Mart. The Mercer staff was kind enough to take time to show us around and answer questions about plants, propagation and new and cool things to expect at this year’s March Mart.

Mercer March Mart Preview
Mercer March Mart

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Plant Study Salvia guarantica ‘black and blue’

Posted on February 17, 2012 by Linda MacPhee-Cobb

salvia black and blue

photo credit

Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Salvia
Species: S. guarantica ‘black and blue’

Black and blue salvia is a semi-woody perennial. Also known as blue anise sage, this plant is native to Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina. It gets 3-5 feet tall and just as wide. The flowers are tubular, dark blue in color with a purple base. This plant likes full sun to partial shade, with some protection from the afternoon sun in the summer. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, and makes a beautiful addition of blue flowers to any garden. Drought tolerant, it makes an excellent plant for our region.

Propagation Methods: Cuttings and layering
References: Plant Answers ; Dave’s Garden; Plant Encyclopedia
Photo: used with permission of Floridata.com

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Feb. Meeting

Posted on February 14, 2012 by Linda MacPhee-Cobb

This month’s meeting featured a talk by NGC Master Judge Margaret Sinclair “Making a Creative Abstract Design”.

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