Brookgreen Gardens

The best way to envision your outdoor environment's possibilities is to take field trips around South Carolina.  One of the most inspiring places is Brookgreen Gardens near Myrtle Beach.

Before you make the drive north, read up on the history and spooky tales associated with Brookgreen Gardens.  Make sure your camera batteries are charged and that there's plenty of room on your memory card, because you'll shoot a lot of photos.  Take a notepad so you can jot down information you'll want later!

Growing Grass in Shade

South Carolina is blessed with beautful trees that provide welcome shade. However, that shade can make growing grass a real challenge.
Best grasses for shady areas include fine fescues and St. Augustine, according to the experts at Clemson Extension. Check out their recommendations today, and call us for a free consultation about keeping your lawn looking it best.

Jolly Joker Pansies

OK, these pretty pansies are not official Clemson regalia. However, they're tough bloomers! I planted Jolly Jokers last October and they survived last winter's freezes with aplomb, blooming continuously. This week, they're putting on a lovely show of color and spreading vigorously. Learn more about pansies from the experts at Clemson.

Garden Kneeling Pad

This knee pad is twice as thick as most others on the market, making it a great choice for those of us who need lots of cushioning.  Works nicely as a sit-upon, too.  Excellent user reviews.

Xeriscape in South Carolina

Dry landscaping in South Carolina? Why not? Save money and time, too, with plants that don't require intensive water or care.

Xeriscape principles can reduce water consumption and add some fun challenge to garden and landscape design. You don't have to sacrifice color or content, but it does pay to do some homework before buying. Visit xeriscape gardens for ideas - Clemson University in Clemson and Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia both feature "dry" gardens.

You also can learn a lot from water-concious experts in Denver.  Take a look at this terrific plant guide!  Check out the used copies from amazon.com partners - I've had great luck finding very clean copies of books at very low prices. 

Bamboo Fiber Garden Gloves

These garden gloves are green all over!  According to amazon.com, the gloves are rayon made from bamboo fiber, will not hold odor or grow fungus, are extra absorbent, and allow the fabric to wick moisture away, keeping you cooler and drier.

Riverbanks Zoo Spring Plant Sale

What a great reason to visit Riverbanks Zoo on April 16, 2011!


"Riverbanks horticulture staff has handpicked employee and visitor favorites for this year's annual spring plant sale. More than 40 varieties totaling more than 4,000 individual plants will be available for purchase. There will be no pre-sale. Most plants will range from $5 to $10. Admission is free for those who enter at 1201 Seminole Drive, West Columbia" (Riverbanks Zoo).

Midlands Plant and Flower Festival

Don't miss the 2011 Midlands Plant and Flower Festival April 14-17, 2011.

Visit the festival from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday at South Carolina State Farmers Market, 3483 Charleston Hwy., West Columbia, SC 29172.

The Carolina Yardstick Workbook - Free and Fabulous!

"There's no doubt about it. Successful garden and lawn care in South Carolina requires special knowledge and skills. The Carolina YardStick Workbook shows you how to create attractive and healthy yards by working with South Carolina's environment, rather than against it"  (Clemson Cooperative Extension http://www.clemson.edu/).


Your tax dollars are never better invested than with this free, amazing, online resource!  Check out "The Carolina Yardstick Workbook" and learn at your own pace.  The "yardstick" approach is kind of fun - a way to measure, if you will, your progress through this easy, informative educational series.   Work online or on your computer, or print a full-color PDF.  Any way you choose, it's never been easier to see your outdoor environment's potential.

Anti-Gravity Recliners Add Style, Support to Outdoor Rooms

As you prepare your outdoor environment for spring grilling and gatherings, don't forget to assess your seating.

For real relaxation and spinal support, take a look at anti-gravity recliners.  They're a smart investment for genuine R & R!

Grow Your Own Herbs

Don't bet on finding the fresh herbs you need at the grocery store - grow your own! 

Chives are hard to kill and they add both flavor and texture to lots of dishes.  Rosemary is both a tasty herb and terrific ground cover.
Basil comes in so many varities, it's hard to choose just one.

Try growing them in pots, where they can be moved for convenience and decorative value, too.  We have a pot of chives that's come back year after year, with little or no attention.  Just keep 'em trimmed!

Midlands Plant and Flower Festival April 14-17, 2011

Don't miss this annual event - great source for locally grown landscape bargains!
Midlands Plant & Flower Festival

South Carolina State Farmers Market
3483 Charleston Hwy., West Columbia, S.C. 29172
April 14 - 17, 2011
Thursday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 12 - 5 p.m.

Knock Out Roses in Pink Shades

We see a lot of red knock-out roses in South Carolina, but pink varieties add a lot of dimensional color to landscapes.

Check for disease resistance as you look for bargains.

Monthly Gardening List for South Carolina

Keep it simple!

Use a monthly gardening checklist, like this one by Clemson University Extension Horticulturist Bob Polomski, to stay on top of your garden needs.  Find out what to plant, when to plant, and how to care for plants in Lexington County, SC, and Richland County, SC.

Of course, if time is short, call Sunstar Lawn Care LLC for a fast, FREE evaluation.