My Garden and Home

2013-05-23T07:49:00.001-04:00

The Environmental Working Groups list of fruits and vegetables that we should eat and those that you should avoid and why.

The 'Clean Fifteen'

Go to link: Executive Summary- EWG's 2013 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce™: EWG's 2013 Shopper's Guide helps you make informed choices about the produce you buy. Check out our 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean 15' lists to shop smarter.

The 'Dirty Dozen Plus'

2013-05-22T19:04:00.001-04:00

THE FOOD REVOLUTION…

If you care about what you eat and the quality of food you are serving to your family then you must read this information provided by John and his son Ocean Robbins. The food you are eating may look a lot better then it actually is for you. Get informed.

Go to Link: The Food Revolution.

In bloom now… May16, 2013

2013-05-16T20:05:00.000-04:00

The Venus Devino Garden in Kew Gardens, NY. Heuchera 'Peach Flambe', Weeping 'Forest Pansy' a hosta selection, ivy, yucca and more.

Purple Bearded Iris, geranium just starting to bloom.

Photos: Renata Jelito

Blue Bearded Iris, Clematis 'Nelly Moser'

Clematis 'Nelly Moser'

Azalea and the birdbath provides fresh water for our wildlife visitors.

Seasonal pot all dressed for summer.

Lacecap hydrangea in bud, ferns and hosta in the part shade garden.

Blue Iris, sage and chives in bloom, sedum 'Autumn Joy' in foreground

Welcome to our garden.

Clematis and Iris in the background

Hosta in blue seersucker texture on of my favorites.

Weed?

2013-05-15T16:53:00.000-04:00

Add caption

2013-05-10T19:52:00.002-04:00

My Reward Spring 2013

May 22, 2013
White Simplicity Rose J&P , stachys, willow jap.

I've waited 5 years to have enough lilacs in my garden so that I could have this bouquet.
Must say it was worth the wait.

Lilacs in a handmade ceramic vase by Ruth Danis

May 2 at The Gates

2013-05-02T21:00:00.002-04:00

In Bloom now!

Apple in bloom

Crab apple in bloom. To me, nothing is as lovely as an apple tree in bloom.

American redbud

Falls lamium

Back gardens…no sprinklers.

Redbud and magnolia in bloom ...

Ajuga, Ribbon grass

Lilac

White lilac, beautifully fragrant.

Narcissus

Magnolia

In bloom now…as the spring season progresses

2013-04-13T11:22:00.000-04:00

The narcissus mixture is just delightful omitting that familiar fragrance of spring with the wind touched giant snowdrops adding movement and texture.

Photos: Renata Jelito

Heuchera - Peach Crisp, Narcissus thalia and others.

Camellia

What difference a few days and a good rain can make… The daffodils are beginning to bloom as well but have been badly beaten by the rain. I will show them to you next time.

Camellia

Peach in bloom

Iberis

Forsythia

Forsythia shrubs

Hellebore

Pachysandra

Pansy

Pieris

Rhododendron

Sedum not exactly in bloom but they are mighty sweet.

Anemone

Carex

2013-04-10T16:32:00.000-04:00

A testament to the healing power of the landscape and nature.
“As I sat quietly by myself, a wave of emotion washed over me that was completely unexpected. As I walked the labyrinth, I became intensely aware of how this garden brings a new level of healing to my heart. I can only imagine what it will mean to people who are coming here during their long course of treatment. It is an ongoing gift to those who come back many years after treatment and find comfort for past fear and sorrow in this beautiful space.” Anonymous

Follow the link below to a wonderful article in LandscapeOnline.com

A Synergy of Nature and Light

The Mary & Al Schneider Healing Garden at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center

Go to link: LandscapeOnline.com :: Article : A Synergy of Nature and Light

2013-04-08T07:24:00.002-04:00

Do you want your own back yard paradise?

Illustrations by Jeong Suh, Bryan Christie Design

In case you are wondering what it might cost to create your own backyard paradise go to link below and see what you can expect to get for your money.

Go to link: Making Your Own Backyard Paradise

A version of this article appeared in print on April 7, 2013, on page MM82 of the Sunday Magazine with the headline: Yes, Please, In My Backyard.

In bloom now!

2013-04-07T17:40:00.001-04:00

So far this year we have experienced an unusually cold and dry spring. As a result many of the spring bloomers appear to be delayed and I am afraid will arrive to late in the season to be enjoyed properly.
Our Hamamelis that has always bloomed in February did not reach it's first bloom till March. Now I see that the daffodils seem to be lagging behind as well.
We are fortunate enough to have a few pockets with micro climates that are starting to bloom while others are just popping through the ground.

These are in bloom now.

2013-04-05T07:03:00.002-04:00

Research has finally proven that a walk in nature can ease your brain fatigue.

Till now Scientists have know but were not able to prove how the brain has a limited ability to stay calm and focused.

But with the recent development of a lightweight, portable electroencephalogram this theory has been tested.

For more information click on the link below.

Go to link: Easing Brain Fatigue With a Walk in the Park

2013-04-04T07:42:00.000-04:00

A wonderful list of what to grow in your garden to repel mosquitos naturally, no chemicals required.
Many of these plants are edible and a wonderful addition to your meals as well…
All photos: Homestead Survival

Rosemary

Floss flower

Basil

Go to link: Mosquito Repellent Plants

2013-03-28T07:51:00.000-04:00

Hassle-Free Clematis Pruning
for Beginners and Advanced Gardeners

Polish Spirit

Many of us find clematis pruning a bit puzzling. Armed with a few simple rules and the power of observation you will be pruning with confidence and great results in no time.
I found these great instructions from Brushwood Nursery published by Horticulture. Take a look for yourself and you will see how easy it can be.
Now go on and plant some of these wonderful plants today. Happy gardening!

Go to link: hassle_free_clematis_pruning

2013-03-24T19:27:00.001-04:00

Many people are confused about what full sun, part sun, part shade or full shade actually mean. Unless you have a flat lot without structures or trees, you will need to be an observer and spend time in your garden to fully understand what you have.

When planing a new installation or improving existing beds the plant sun requirements are one of the keys to growing a successful garden. At first the existing conditions must be considered, the changes that will take place as your plants grow and then the mature size. Theses steps will ensure that your garden will be successful and beautiful for many years to come.

A good chart for sun and shade information is available at the link below.

If you have conditions as diverse as these
you will need to take time to evaluate the site.
It is also important to study each season and the impact it has on the ground.

Photos: Renata Jelito

Go to Link: What Does Full Sun, Partial Shade, Etc.. Really Mean?

The treasures of winter in snow.

2013-03-08T14:03:00.001-05:00

Helleborus in the snow…

Hamamelis blooming since February signaling the winters end.

Acer Japonicus

Gaultheria procumbens

Hellbore - My free gift from Sunshine Farms, thank you Barry.

Easter at The Queens Center Mall, Elmhurst, NY

2013-03-03T15:13:00.000-05:00

Photos: Renata Jelito
The Bunny has arrived…

Easter Bunny Display Provided by Gardens by Renata
gardensbyrenata@aol.com
718-751-6547

The Easter Bunny will be joining us at the Queens Center Mall on March 9, 2013

Easter 2013 at The Queens Center Mall

Gardens by Renata
For all your indoor and outdoor plantscape needs,
design, install and maintain.

718-751-6547
gardensbyrenata@aol.com

Photos: Renata Jelito

2013-02-24T08:20:00.000-05:00

New Trends from the Stockholm Design Week

Great ideas for greening and living… As presented by Urban Gardens

UNLIMITED THINKING FOR LIMITED SPACES

Swedish brand Greenworks proposed a free-standing hedge on wheels, with water contained in a stylish white tank. The mobile green wall could serve as a room divider while also absorbing sound and purifying the air.

UNLIMITED THINKING FOR LIMITED SPACES

Go to link: Indoor-Outdoor Highlights and Trends From Stockholm Design Week

Preparing for Easter

2013-02-23T08:03:00.002-05:00

Easter is just around the corner… this is what I have so far.

Spring blooms, Easter eggs in all shapes and sizes, a bonnet
and a newly hatched chick.
All that is missing is the Chocolate… coming soon.
If you would like to learn how to create your own Paper Mache Easter Eggs you can find compete instructions on YouTube.com

Happy Valentine's Day to You , you and you!

2013-02-14T07:09:00.000-05:00

Wishing you a wonderful Day!
by American Greetings

Winter visit to the New York Botanical Garden .

2013-02-10T15:58:00.000-05:00

No matter what the season or weather you will find peace, fresh air and beauty at the Gardens.

Photos: Renata Jelito
Seasonal beauty, Icycle

Tanyosho pines and Manolo Valdés sculpture
'Flore' 2012 bronze and Cor-Ten steel.

The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and perennial garden.

Sweetgum tree also know as Liquidambar styraciflua

The Bronx River and Stone mill, where I thee wed. My happy place… ♥♥♥

Tulip tree also known as Liridendron tulipfera
create a floral design in the winter landscape.

Birds dodging the hawk

Gardens by Renata

2013-02-06T18:57:00.000-05:00

Summer Pots for Sun and Shade

2013-02-02T14:06:00.001-05:00

Something for every location… ☀ Full Sun ☀☁Sun /Part Shade
☁ Shade ☁☀ Shade/Part Sun
☂ Plenty of water

Photos: Renata Jelito

Dusty Miller, Petunia, African Daisy, Licorice Plant ☀ ☂

Portulaca grandiflora, Buxus, Ipomoea ☀

Petunia, Agave, Eucalyptus, Sedum ☀

Petunia, Sedum 'Autumn Joy' ☀ ☂

Caladium, Ivy ☁☀☂

Double Begonia, Ivy ☁

Hydrangea petiolaris, Leucothoe, Hellebore, Impatiens ☁☀

Cotoneaster weeping standard, Euonymus fortunei,
Buxux, Hellebore ☀

Mandevilla vine, Dichondra silver falls, Dahlia, Dusty Miller ☀☂

Ivy, heuchera, Plumbago auriculata, ☁☀☂

Mixed Petunia, Dusty Miller ☀☂

Cypress golden mop ☀

Petunia, Agave, Eucalyptus, Sedum ☀☂

Sedum, Aster, Ivy ☀☁

Mandevilla, bacopa, pennisetum ☀☂

Cedar, Persian shield, Stachys byzantina ☀

Alberta spruce, Dianthus, Hakonechloa macra, Heuchera ☁☀☂

Portulaca, Alberta spruce, Verbenas ☀

The grasses, Ipomoea batatas, African daisy and the zinnia
make a cheerful and welcoming statement. ☀

Miscanthus, plectranthus and the sedum 'Autumn Joy'
have a cooling nature. ☀

Rex begonia, coleus, heuchera, impatiens,
Tradescantia zebrina and liriope lovely for the shaded nook ☁

Begonias, vinca, ivy, liriope and Alberta spruce ☁ ☀

Mugo pine, portulaca, ivy ☀

Dwarf evergreens, ivy, liriope, dust miller,
impatiens part shade part sun.
With enough water full sun. ☁☀

What ever greens you fancy will do, just keep it small.
The 4 Seasons planters, best of all. ☀

These planters make the entrance, don't you think? ☀☁

Home entrance ☀☁☂

Window Boxes ☀ ☁ ☂

Screening☀☁

Color with Foliage

2013-01-24T15:04:00.001-05:00

Anthurium. pothos

Fern and Pathos

Philodendron

Palm and Pathos makes a nice combination.
Remember, green is a color too!

Palm & moss

Palm and ground-cover edged in white

Stromathe sanguinea 'Tricolor' Pothos, Philodendron 'Red Congo'

Creating interesting and colorful pots is easy all you need is to allow your instinct to be your guide. I like to add at least one plant that adds contrast to the green of the plants that I have selected.

Such as foliage with pink variegation like Stromathe sanguinea 'Tricolor' I have found this plant to be very dependable and not too demanding always looking well with very little fuss.

Photos: Renata Jelito

Croton Elaine- Codiaeum variegatum pictum is another plant with lots of color and easy to care for. If you can provide it with full sun or plenty of indirect light and adequate moisture, this plant likes to be evenly moist but not wet.

Another easy to care for plant is the snake plant also known as mother in-law's tongue, the botanical name is Sansevieria trifasciata v. Most people seem to think this plant likes shade but it is actually a sun lover. This plant will survive in a very dark place for up to a year and then die quickly if conditions are not improved.

I also like the corn stalk plant -Dracaena fragrans with the beautiful chartreuse stripe or a nice bright Golden Pothos is an exceptionally easy plant to grow anywhere and it will brighten any spot,

The Philodendron Red Congo is also a wonderful plant with interesting color. I have grown it in low light and bright indirect light and it has been living up to my expectations and beyond. When grown in low light conditions it has become significantly smaller over the last 5 years. However it is still growing and it has maintained the beautiful color but the leaves and stems are now about a third of the original size.
I also would like to add my newly discovered pink arrow head - Syngonium-Neon to this list. With dusty rose foliage it makes a wonderful specimen or a nice color addition to most pots.

With all these great choices you too can add beautiful color that will lift your spirit, help purify the air and be easy to maintain.

Give it a try today!

Antherium, Ivy, Dracaena fragrans & Croton

Stromathe sanguinea'Tricolor', pothos & snake plant

CHAIYA MEDITATION MONASTERY

2013-01-23T10:31:00.000-05:00

7925 Virtue Court, Las Vegas, NV 89113
Tel: 702-456-3838

The Chaiya Meditation Monastery is another Las Vegas treasure that we discovered on our first trip to Nevada. When planning this trip we did not realize that we would be practically living next door to this lovely place of peace and beauty. Imagine the delight when I looked out the front door and saw this lovely compound in the morning sun, with it's roofs glistening and the colors bringing joy to all.

All are welcome , people from every walk of life , religion or belief can come and learn about the teachings of Buddha the goal being to free oneself of suffering. They also offer meditation classes private and public, guest lectures and of course the beautiful garden.
Even if you are not a practitioner of meditation and do not wish to partake in a lecture you will find peace and beauty in this lovely strolling garden.

Go to link: Chaiya Meditation Monastery

Offerings to Ganesha

Photos: Renata Jelito

Ganesha or Ganesh

The strolling garden

The Monastery in the morning light, all are welcome.

Springs Preserve, Las Vegas, Nevada

2013-01-18T14:00:00.002-05:00

Photo by: Springs Preserve

When you think of going to Las Vegas, Nevada your mind thinks of casinos, grand hotels but rarely nature. However, being who I am my mind immediately started looking for the beauty of the natural world. I found one such place that even the locals did not seem to know about, it is the Springs Preserve

SPRINGS PRESERVE

Recipient of the 2012 Horticulture Magazine Award for Garden Excellence
Recipient of the 2012 Horticulture Magazine Award for Garden Excellence
333 S. Valley View Blvd. at US 95
Preserve open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00PM
Nevada State Museum open Friday to Monday 10:00AM to 4:00 PM

The Spring Preserve contains a botanical gardens, a farmers market, hiking trails, bike rentals, live animal shows, a fine cafe that offer cooking classes as well as fresh and delicious food. Also you will find garden workshops a children's theater, the Origen Museum and the Nevada State Museum.

Go to link: Springs Preserve

The Springs Preserve is the premier place in Las Vegas to explore the valley's vibrant history through interactive science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails, and live animal shows.The Springs Preserve is the premier place in Las Vegas to explore the valley's vibrant history through interactive science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails, and live animal shows.The Springs Preserve is the premier place in Las Vegas to explore the valley's vibrant history through interactive science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails, and live animal shows.