Gardening for Enjoyment

Ostrich Fern

The Ostrich Fern is a large, deciduous fern with graceful, feathery fronds that resemble ostrich plumes, commonly found in moist woodland areas and prized for its ornamental value. It is a magnificent and beneficial plant with several advantages in landscaping projects. The Tall and Lovely Ostrich Fern It's an attractive dimorphic plant that gardeners use all year round to beautify their patches. In its nonfertile state, the plant grows to a height of 6 feet, the gorgeous fronds resembling plumes, hence the plant's name. In its fertile state, which occurs in the fall and early winter, it is much smaller. The shape is interesting, however, so it still provides pleasing shapes in a garden, even if that shape does change. The Different Phases of the Ostrich Fern When nonfertile, it is a rich, almost Kelly green, the arching fronds swooshing enticingly in the breeze. They offer quite a contrast with other blooming plants and serve as color anchors in a garden of flowers. They're hardy, too, so you can plant them nearly anywhere to beautify a particular place. Although they aren't green and sweeping in the winter, they're still attractive as they survive the cold and snow while the perennials are snoozing until the spring. Ostrich Fern: An Environmental Friend First, its extensive root system is a great soil stabilizer, and the other plants in the garden will benefit thereby because its roots prevent erosion and nutrient loss in the soil. Second, they are a boon to various garden-dwelling wildlife. Several species of butterflies and beneficial insects rely on plants like it for shelter and as a place for egg laying and pupae maturation. Perhaps best of all, although fiddleheads are a delicacy for people when cooked, animals don't like their taste. So, you won't have to worry about rabbits, deer, and other woodland creatures venturing into the garden for a snack. The Serenity of the Ostrich Fern Practitioners of feng shui rely on it to bring harmony to both a dwelling and the garden adjacent to it. The way it morphs back into a verdant, thriving plant after being so much smaller throughout the winter indicates a symbolism of new beginnings, too.

Black Chokeberry

Black Chokeberry has delicate white flowers bloom in spring, creating an eye-catching display. In the Fall, they are replaced with blackberries. A great source for birding shrubs as well it a highly favored shrub by homeowners. The Black Chokeberry Black chokeberry plants are a species of shrub and part of the rose family. Native to the eastern part of North America, these branching shrubs are known for their gorgeous dark-red color in the autumn, as well as their small black berries, which have been known to frequently attract certain bird species. So, if you're hoping for more avian visitors in your garden, the plant could be the perfect plant to introduce to the area. Characteristics  Although it is a relatively common-looking plant, it offers a simple beauty to spruce up any outdoor area. The shrub is known for its glossy, dark green leaves, which will gradually shift to a breathtaking crimson as the season changes to autumn. It also produces lovely flowers, which will typically be either white or pink; these bright, colorful flowers make the shrub a popular choice for gardens, courtyards, and walkways. During the fall, tiny blackberries will start to appear, contrasting nicely with the lighter shades of the flowers. On average, it will rise to between three and six feet high. The pretty flowers will typically be approximately two to three inches across. The bush will usually appear in medium-sized clusters, which will be wider near the top, creating an appealing cone-like shape. The plant works perfectly if you're looking for a shrub that can take up some space while complementing the more exuberant plants in an outdoor space. This shrub is often used to add some life to a home's front yard, and it can also be effective as a hedge, which will enhance the privacy and curb appeal of your property. Because of the plant's relatively neutral, mild colors, it will be an excellent addition to just about any area. They are wonderful, versatile shrubs that can help you fill in a sparse garden, enhance the front of your home, or simply add some extra beauty to your backyard. While the shrub is lovely all year long, it will become especially beautiful during autumn, producing breathtaking colors and attracting birds to your property.