Between the Rows – A Guide to Vegetable Gardening: October 2024
Vegetable gardening information and events for October.
PERENNIAL: Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s-seal or Smooth Solomon’s Seal)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Common throughout much of the Mid-Atlantic, this native boasts graceful arching stems, dainty bell-like flowers, and prominent leaf veins. Its common name may come from resemblance of rhizome scars to the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon or from purported “wound sealing properties.”
New to the Glossary: Angiosperm, Bryophyte, Gymnosperm, Lycophyte, Pteridophyte, Spermatophyte
Land plants have evolved from ten major living lineages, with like plants being grouped together based on whether or not they have vascular tissue and whether or not they have seeds. The two groups of vascular seed plants are the angiosperms (meaning “vessel seeds”) and the gymnosperms (meaning “naked seeds”).
Invasive Plant Video: Tree of Heaven
The Glencarlyn Library Community Garden coordinators have created a new series of short videos about locally invasive plants and native alternatives. This month's post is on the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Information is also given for the Spotted Lanternfly, which feeds on the Tree of Heaven.
TREE: Nyssa sylvatica (Black Gum, Sour Gum, Black Tupelo)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Commonly found from creek bottoms to upland slopes throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region, Black Gum is noted for its beautiful yellow to orange to scarlet fall foliage. Bees make a flavorful honey from nectar-rich flowers, while many birds and mammals enjoy the juicy fruit.
Caring for Your Native Plants Garden in the Fall
Our newest resource has information on tasks appropriate to the fall season and year-long practices to encourage and support local wildlife with native plants.