Miniature Roses 101

Miniature Roses 101

Miniature roses may feature smaller blooms, yet the wide variety of colours they come in is quite impressive. These petite beauties are a great way to add personality and colour to your garden. Not only are they beautiful, but they can also withstand even harsher winter conditions better than some other roses. Garden roses are some of the most popular flowers you can plant in your garden.

About Miniature Roses

Miniature roses have been around since the 17th century and were mostly developed from China roses native to Asia. However, they still hold many of the same properties, and need to be planted in spring for optimal growth. There is an extensive range of miniature rose varieties that can reach between a foot to three feet in size. Just like other roses, these miniatures come in different colours, fragrances and are perennial plants. Popular varieties include Trailers, Climbers and Micr-mini.

Blooms

Miniature roses, much like their larger counterparts, bloom from mid-spring through early fall. Some can even bloom year round when provided with the optimal living conditions – but not usually in Canada. Regular maintenance of your plants can help them to keep blooming for longer. Deadheading the faded blooms, before they form into hips, can be a great way to promote the plant’s growth and prevent it from going into dormancy, which is indicated by seed production.

Pests

Unfortunately, miniature roses are subject to the same problems as larger roses, including black spot, a fungal disease. Powdery mildew can also be an issue. To avoid both of these inflictions, improve the air circulation around your roses by planting each bush a few feet apart and watering the plant from the base of the roots instead of overhead.

Tip: It is essential to get rid of any diseased debris as soon as possible to avoid further infection. Be watchful for pests or insect damage such as Japanese beetles, thrips, mites or chafers; and take prompt action if there are signs of any kind of infection by using an insecticide.

Miniature Rose Care Instructions

These tiny blooms can be grown in containers, flower beds, or even as a border along a walkway. With their hardy, disease-resistant nature and easy maintenance requirements, miniature roses are perfect for beginners or experienced gardeners alike. Whether you’re looking to create an enchanting miniature rose garden or simply add some stunning color to your outdoor space, these petite blooms will surely get the job done. To grow miniature roses at home, follow the care instructions below and be sure to plant in zone 5-11.

Full Sun

Miniature rose plants require full sun to thrive, although they can tolerate some shade. However, if kept in shady surroundings for too long, their foliage and flowers may become sparse. If you want your bush to bloom at its fullest potential and ensure maximum disease resistance, make sure it gets at least six to eight hours of sun each day.

Soil

Roses thrive in nutrient-rich, well-drained and loamy soil. A great option for these blooms is to have them in patio containers. If you’re doing this, don’t use garden soil for your pot of roses since it won’t have the same effect. When it comes to container gardening, potting soil is the ideal choice as it is light and has all the nutrients needed for successful growth. Garden soil can be too dense and restrict water flow, potentially depriving the root system of air which can cause root rot. Potting soil drains well, so there are minimal chances of this happening.

Water

As a thumb rule, roses need to be watered at least one inch in a week; either daily, alternate days or simply twice every week. While watering your plants, it is important to ensure they are watered deeply. This encourages the root system to expand and become stronger. Additionally, when you water them, aim the hose at the base of each plant rather than spraying the blooms directly. This helps preserve their delicate structure. The extent of water consumption for your rose bush varies depending on the type of soil and the climate conditions.

Tip: Miniature roses need more frequent watering than regular-sized roses when the temperature is scorching outside. This is because their root system is smaller, so they are more vulnerable to dehydration.

Fertilizer

Miniature roses require heavy fertilization for them to bloom throughout the season. You can use any store-bought rose fertilizer or general all-purpose fertilizer, but make sure to follow the instructions written on the label accurately. For optimal plant health, it is important to nourish your roses when their first leaves sprout and after each bloom. It should be noted, however, that feeding should be stopped roughly six to eight weeks prior to the initial frost in order to prevent any fresh growth from being destroyed by the cold.

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All about the Big Green Egg BBQ

All about the Big Green Egg BBQ

The Big Green Egg BBQ is a type of ceramic charcoal grill that is designed to cook food using charcoal as its fuel source. It is called a “green egg” because of its unique oval shape, which resembles a large green egg.

Big Green Egg BBQs are known for their excellent heat retention and versatility, which allows them to be used for a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, and roasting. The ceramic construction of the grill helps to distribute heat evenly, which results in more consistent cooking and better-tasting food.

In addition to their performance, Big Green Egg BBQs are also known for their durability and longevity. They are built to last for many years and are often considered a long-term investment for serious outdoor cooks.
Where can you buy a Big Green Egg near Victoria? Visit the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre today and find all kinds of high-quality products for amazing prices!

What are the advantages of a Big Green Egg BBQ?

The Big Green Egg BBQ is a popular type of ceramic charcoal grill that has gained a reputation for its durability, versatility, and performance. Here are some advantages of using a Big Green Egg BBQ:

  • Temperature control: The Big Green Egg’s ceramic construction allows it to retain heat and distribute it evenly, making it easy to control the cooking temperature. It can maintain a low temperature for slow cooking or reach high temperatures for searing and grilling.
  • Versatility: The Big Green Egg can be used for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. It comes with a range of accessories that allow you to cook different types of food, from pizza to brisket.
  • Fuel efficiency: The Big Green Egg requires less charcoal than traditional grills, thanks to its efficient design. The airtight seal on the lid helps to reduce airflow, and the ceramic construction retains heat, which means you can use less charcoal to cook your food.
  • Durability: The Big Green Egg is made from high-quality ceramic, which is resistant to cracking, chipping, and fading. The grill is also designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making it a great investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
  • Flavour: The ceramic construction of the Big Green Egg helps to lock in the natural moisture and flavour of the food, creating a delicious and tender result. The charcoal used in the grill also adds a distinct smoky flavour that cannot be replicated by gas grills.

Overall, the Big Green Egg BBQ is a great option for those who enjoy outdoor cooking and want a versatile, durable, and efficient grill that can produce delicious, flavorful food. Do you want to know where you can get more information about this product? Check out our page here or visit the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre today and enjoy free advice from our knowledgeable staff.

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How To Grow Clematis

How To Grow Clematis

Clematis is a genus of climbing plants that are widely grown in gardens for their beautiful, showy flowers. They can be trained to climb trellises, walls or arbours, adding vertical interest and texture to any garden. Whether you’re looking for white, pink, blue or purple flowers, clematis plants provide a stunning display that is sure to delight gardeners of all kinds.

How to Plant & Care for Your Clematis

Planting in the cool spring is the optimal time for successful growth. The soil is warm and moist, providing ideal conditions for root development. With careful attention to timing and soil conditions, planting in the spring gives plants a better chance of taking root and thriving.

Sun

Clematis does best when it gets ample amounts of sunlight throughout the day. Ideally, it should get 6 hours of full sun for optimal blooming.

Soil

To ensure a successful planting, the soil should be light with good draining. Additionally, it must have a balanced pH level. Before planting, mix in compost or aged manure together with bonemeal for extra nutrition.

Water

Regularly water the soil when the plant is in its initial year, to ensure that it stays moist. To help with moisture, add an extra layer of mulch around the plant.

Tip: Once planted, it’s best not to move or disturb your plant in any way.

Directions

1.) Dig a scoop in the ground as wide as two to three times the size of the root ball and make sure it is a few inches deeper than that.

2.) For optimum temperature & moisture control, ensure that the crown of the plant is situated around 4 inches underground. This ensures proper branching and stem growth beneath the soil surface.

3.) After that, mulch the region to maintain coolness around the roots and also limit weed growth.

4.) Place your favourite climbing structure! Whether you intend to place your Clematis against a wall while fixing it upwards or letting it grow along an arbour or trellis. Vertical blooms are the best part about growing vines!

Care Tips

  • During the springtime, make sure to spread compost in a way that is away from the stems of the plant. This will ensure your plants get the nutrients they need.
  • Get rid of old dead branches, cutting just above new buds to help foster the growth of newer ones.
  • On older plants, remove any stems that are 4 years old or older. 

Popular Varieties

Clematis Jackmanii Superba Clematis Louise Rowe Clematis Multi Blue
Clematis Kilian Donachue Clematis Alpina Pamela Jackman Clematis The President

Did you know? The name ‘clematis’ has its origin in the old Greek term ‘klematis’, which stands for a creeping or climbing plant.

Looking for more? Check out the latest episode of Get Up and Grow with our President Gord Nickel, as he teaches Hannah Lepine everything she needs to know to grow her own Clematis at home!

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Why David Austin Roses?

Why David Austin Roses?

Are you considering buying David Austin roses soon? Would you like to know more about them and how to grow them? Wildwood Outdoor Living would love to help you make a well-informed decision and tell you all about these beautiful flowers.

David Austin roses are renowned for their beauty and are prized for their full, lush blooms and attractive fragrance. They come in a wide variety of colours and shades, and their appearance is often likened to that of old-fashioned roses. They have a long blooming period, which means that they provide an extended season of colour and fragrance in the garden or as cut flowers. Many David Austin roses are disease-resistant as well, making them easier to care for and less susceptible to common rose diseases such as black spots and powdery mildew.

David Austin roses are versatile and can be used in a range of garden settings, including borders, hedges, and mixed perennial beds. They are also a popular choice for cut flowers, weddings, and other special occasions. And while roses can be finicky and require careful maintenance, David Austin roses are generally considered to be relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners. Overall, the combination of their beauty, fragrance, disease resistance, versatility, and ease of care make Dave Austin roses a popular and highly desirable choice for many gardeners and flower enthusiasts.

How to take care of David Austin roses?

When adding David Austin roses to your already beautiful garden, knowing what kind of care they need is key to getting the most out of these beautiful flowers. What information do you need to know?

  1. Sunlight: English Roses prefer full sun, so choose a planting location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  2. Watering: Roses need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Fertilizing: Fertilize your English Roses with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.
  4. Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and shape of your David Austin roses. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or damaged wood, crossing branches, and any growth that is thinner than a pencil.
  5. Disease and pest control: English Roses are generally hardy and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to common rose diseases such as black spots and powdery mildew. Monitor your plants for signs of disease or pests and treat them promptly with an appropriate product.
  6. Soil: David Austin roses prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They also require a slightly acidic soil pH, around 6.0 to 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with organic matter or sulphur.

By providing your David Austin roses with the right soil, sunlight, water, fertilizer, and care, you can enjoy their beautiful blooms and fragrant flowers for many years to come.

Where can I buy David Austin roses?

David Austin roses are the perfect choice for anyone looking to add a touch of class to their garden. Whether you’re looking to create a romantic atmosphere or simply want to enjoy the beauty of roses in your home, David Austin roses are sure to make an impact. These roses are renowned for their unique blend of old garden roses and modern hybrids, offering an exquisite combination of fragrance, beauty, and health. With a wide variety of colours and varieties, these roses can be used to create stunning displays in any garden. The thick foliage and abundant blooms make them an ideal choice for hedging and groundcover, while their long flowering period and strong fragrance make them a desirable addition to any garden.

Where can I buy David Austin roses? At the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre, you will find the perfect David Austin roses for your garden. Do you live near Vancouver, Victoria, Oak Bay, or anywhere nearby? Then the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre is the perfect place to go to. Come visit soon! Learn more about our rose selection here or see what we have available on our online store.

Visit Wildwood Outdoor Living

Looking for a beautiful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre. With a stunning array of plants, flowers, and trees, our garden centre is the perfect place to indulge your passion for all things green and growing. However, it’s not just the plants that make this garden centre so special – it’s the incredible sense of peace and tranquillity that you’ll find here. Whether you’re strolling through the winding paths, exploring the water features, or simply relaxing in one of the many seating areas, the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre is the perfect place to unwind and escape from the stresses of modern life. Plan a visit today and discover the beauty of the Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre for yourself!

Besides plants, what else can you find at Wildwood Outdoor Living? We carry many products like outdoor furniture, seeds, and BBQs. While visiting our store, make good use of our amazing facilities, like our flexible opening hours, free parking, and curbside pickup.

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2023 April Gardening Tips

2023 April Gardening Tips

Spring is the ideal time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air while tending to your garden. With April just around the corner, we thought it would be the perfect time to help keep you busy as a bee so that you can grow your best garden yet. Get your notebook and pencil ready, because it’s time for a little spring-cleaning!

Container Gardens

Transform your outdoor area with the beauty of container planting. You don’t need a full-fledged garden anymore to enjoy vibrant, lush blooms – just some containers on your patio or porch will do the trick!

Springtime is a great time to prune shrubby plants with hardy stems, as they only produce flowers on fresh shoots. Regular trimming will keep them in good health and boost their blooms.

Try planting Violas as a great cool-temperature loving bloom (Tip: check out Viola Rose Antique Gem for a unique display.)

To ensure full planters, it is best to switch out the top 5 cm of soil with some new soil or start from scratch.

To kick-start the growing season, transplant seedlings into containers and keep them indoors until all danger of frost has passed.

Planting bulbs in containers is a great way to add a pop of color and life to your outdoor space. Bulbs are easy to plant, require minimal effort, and will reward you with beautiful summer blooms. Some of our most popular varieties right now are RanunculusAnemonePeonyCalla LilyCanna LilyAsiatic LilyDahliasBegoniasCrocosmia.

Tip: With a three-tier plant stand, you can easily organize your garden and keep all of your plants in one place. This is great if you have a lot of plants and need to find them quickly!

Clean up

Spring is the best time to begin your compost pile and you can use your last year’s pile for flipping. Most of the kitchen waste which you clean up can be put in it. However, make sure to discard any plant material with symptoms of disease and any weeds or seed heads that might pose a problem. Be sure to keep this in mind while cleaning up dead plants, weeds and trimmings.

It is absolutely essential to assess the condition of your soil before making amendments. Gauging the pH levels (alkaline, neutral or acidic) will help you evaluate how well balanced the nutrients are.

To prevent weeds from taking over your garden, now is the time to take action by manually weeding them out. The soil should be damp, as this will make it simpler to pull out the young seedlings. Avoid composting your weeds if possible, as you may regret doing so later on due to their resilience.

Don’t wait for new growth to start before pruning back your ornamental grasses. Cut them close to the ground and they will regrow when they are ready.

Winter debris needs to be cleared out of flower beds, as this can help disturb slugs that have been overwintering in the area.

To enhance the drainage of soils with heavy clay content, it is recommended to incorporate plenty of compost into the soil. This will help optimize water absorption and drainage in areas that struggle with these issues.

Always inspect your plants for any signs of pests and diseases, as this can help prevent serious damage to your crops. Catching the issue early on can make the process of handling it much simpler than trying to fix it after it’s already caused havoc.

Tip: Don’t put off tidying up your garden for too long. Pruning your plants before the new growth starts to become intertwined with the old makes it much easier and hassle-free.

Planting

There’s nothing better than getting all your chores caught up so that you can start your 2023 garden from fresh prepared soil. If you’re ready to plan and prepare your plants, there is so much fun to be had. Let the 2023 planting season begin!

This season, why not try something new? With our selection of the newest seeds, plants and bulbs, you can create a unique look that will be sure to take your garden to the next level. New seedsNew bulbs New vines.

Spring is the time of renewal, and with the frost over, it’s the perfect time to get started with perennial planting. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance garden or want to create a vibrant colorful display, perennials are hardy and long-lasting giving you years of enjoyment. Tip: Try dividing last year’s perennials before shopping for new ones.

Before planting, powder your potatoes in Sulphur to prevent disease.
Transplant LettucePeasRadishesCarrotsCabbageBroccoliBeetsSpinach.

Now that the days are getting longer and warmer, it’s a perfect time to make sure your houseplants are getting the water and attention they need. It’s also an ideal opportunity to transplant them into larger pots.

Tip: Start feeding the garden with Nurseryland Vegetable, Flower & Garden 12-16-12.

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