>> Also see the main feature, “Waterlily Pests and Diseases: A Ten-Year Update.” Healthy waterlilies are very tough plants. They withstand rains, winds, droughts, hail storms, and neighborhood kids with sticks. And more importantly, pests usually ignore them. Thriving lilies grow fast and bloom well, with plenty of leaves and regular blooms. There are enough […]
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>> Also see the main feature, “Waterlily Pests and Diseases: A Ten-Year Update.” Waterlilies are fairly low maintenance, especially compared to equally gorgeous terrestrial flowers. However, they do require some regular care to stay healthy and bloom well. Here are the basics. Rinse & Observe Whenever you add water to your pond or display tanks, […]
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Author’s Note | We never guessed that our 2009 article on waterlily diseases and pests would be such a hit with readers for so long. As the author, I’m especially gratified that it has helped many Nymphaea growers. The article also prompted numerous online questions about individual waterlily problems. Several queries revealed a common denominator — […]
Read More>> Read the feature article, “Why Color Can By Your Best Sales Tool,” by Paula Biles Actions: Get a fresh perspective. Take numerous photos of your retail displays and pond installations, especially signage. Use the computer to reverse the images and see things with fresh eyes. Evaluate strengths, weaknesses and places to better utilize color. […]
Read More>> Click here to view all images related to this article in our gallery spotlight. Color is often the focus when people shop for cars, clothes, houses, refrigerators, electronics and, yes — even plants. Color is taught in visual merchandising classes because it is an essential tool. A dedicated industry exists for the study of […]
Read MoreA microclimate is a local atmospheric zone where the climate differs from the surrounding area. It refers to either a zone of many square miles or only a few square feet. Microclimates are why people living around a bay have more moderate temperatures than those inland and folks on opposite sides of a mountain have […]
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Victoria amazonica [Giant Water Lily] started capturing people’s attention and imagination 165 years ago. Her success began in the late 1880s when she singlehandedly caused a water garden craze in Europe that quickly spread to the U.S. The craze broadened interest in ponds to include the working class, not just the rich. It also started […]
Read MoreWho’s been killing the aquatic plants? If your pond has become a gruesome crime scene with chewed-up leaves and mutilated lily pads left behind, don’t fret. Paula Biles is on the case! Utilizing her forensic science skills and extensive knowledge of plants and insects, she’ll help you investigate the evidence, track down the culprits and bring the victims back to life!
Read MoreWhile they may not wine and dine like we do, the plants in your pond reproduce with frequency that would make Hugh Hefner blush! Nature’s bountiful procreation strategy provides big opportunities for growers — if they know how to harness it. Do you know the differences between division, viviparous parenthood and tissue culture? If not, be sure to read Paula Biles’ story on the romance that is plant propagation.
Read MoreWinter robs your pond of sunshine and warmth, but it doesn’t have to steal its life. Employ these easy insider tactics to ensure your pond’s plants and animals survive the chilly months.
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