Discover the cultural history, tanning-bark legacy, ecological importance, horticultural uses, cultivars, and pest challenges of Tsuga canadensis (Eastern Hemlock), one of Ontario’s most significant native evergreens.
Discover the history of Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald Gaiety,’ including the origin of the name Fortune, its best landscape uses, care requirements, pest pressures, and recommended companion cultivars. Learn how to grow this versatile variegated evergreen and share your own experiences.
Euonymus alatus, commonly known as burning bush, is a popular yet invasive landscape shrub in Canada. Learn about its origins, ecological impact, landscape uses, fun facts, and how to grow it responsibly.
Buxus ‘Green Gem’ is a hardy, compact boxwood developed by Sheridan Nurseries in Canada. Learn its origins, best landscape uses, growing tips, pest challenges, and why the Box Tree Moth may threaten its future in modern landscapes.
I was at Humber College on Friday teaching my Level 1 Horticulture Technician Apprentices, and during our break I did what any plant‑obsessed instructor does—I wandered into the greenhouse. Amid the succulents and tropicals, one plant practically posed for me: Cereus forbesii ‘Spiralis’, commonly known as the Spiral Cactus. If you’ve never seen one, imagine a cactus … Read more
There’s something unmistakably nostalgic about Abies balsamea, the balsam fir. Its resinous scent lingers in the air long after you brush past it—a classic northern fragrance that feels like winter cabins, quiet forests, and home.
The Eastern White Pine is one of North America’s most iconic native conifers, admired for its soft, feathery needles, stately form, rapid growth, and ecological importance. Whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, nursery professional, or horticulturist, this species delivers exceptional beauty and environmental value. White Pine Care Guide Planting Requirements Light: Thrives in full sun, … Read more
The Mugo Pine (Pinus mugo) is one of the most overused and misunderstood evergreens in modern landscaping. While tough and naturally compact, it often becomes overgrown and unattractive due to improper care—especially the lack of annual candling. In this post, I explore its alpine origins, the best cultivars, common pests, and why thoughtful selection and maintenance are essential for success.
Aralia ‘Fabian’ and Aralia ‘Ming Gold’ are rising stars in interior landscaping, bringing elegant structure, rich foliage, and a compact growth habit perfect for modern homes and offices. In this post, we explore where these tropical beauties originate, how to care for them indoors, and the best places to showcase them for maximum visual impact.
Agave victoriae-reginae, often called the Queen Victoria agave, is one of the most striking desert plants in cultivation. Compact and perfectly symmetrical, it forms tight rosettes of thick, triangular leaves etched with crisp white markings that look almost hand‑painted. Slow‑growing and remarkably architectural, this species thrives on neglect—rewarding patience with a sculptural presence that stands out in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and container displays. Its elegance and durability have made it a favourite among collectors and designers alike.
