Tag: gardening
Stop killing your lawn
This is the second piece in a three-part series on lawns by urban forest conservationist Jim McGlone. The first piece, published April 9, explored the forces at play in the popularization of the “great American lawn.” An Annandale homeowner probably put a lot of effort into this lawn. What’s killing your lawn? Chances are, you … Continued
An outdoor classroom will enhance learning at Belvedere Elementary School
Stepping stones wind through Belvedere’s new outdoor classroom. Students, teachers, parents, and the community celebrated the completion of an outdoor classroom at Belvedere Elementary School April 12. The school’s courtyard has been transformed into a plaza with tables and chairs surrounded by trees and plantings. “Our goal is to extend academic learning to the … Continued
The American lawn: A product in search of a need
A well-cared-for lawn in Annandale. By Jim McGlone Americans “farm” 40 million acres of lawn. That’s an area the size of Ol’ Virginny (modern Virginia and West Virginia). Lawn is the largest “crop” in the state of Maryland. Fairfax County lawn farmers buy more nitrogen than farmers in any other county of the Commonwealth. How … Continued
Long-time Annandale plant nursery will close this summer
After serving the Annandale community for 68 years, the Campbell & Ferrara nursery on Little River Turnpike will close in late spring or early summer. The company isn’t shutting down for good though; the landscaping and garden design center is relocating to 8357 Richmond Highway in Alexandria. The new place will have a much smaller … Continued
Annandale volunteers take part in National Day of Service
Volunteers work on landscaping at the ACCA Child Development Center in Annandale. When President Obama asked the nation to take part in the National Day of Service Jan. 19 to honor the legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., many Annandale residents answered the call. Twenty-two people signed up for a gardening project organized by … Continued
Fall Garden Day at Green Spring Gardens
Asters, winterberry, lilac, butterfly bushes, and Montauk daisies were among the biggest sellers at Fall Garden Day at Green Spring Gardens Sept. 22. The annual event, featuring 21 plant venders, non-profit organizations, a silent auction, crafts, and musical entertainment, benefits Friends of Green Spring (FROGS). Pitcher plants from the Carnivorous Plant Nursery of Derwood, Md.
Great gardens: No more lawn at this Annandale home
The Essers’ front yard. This is the first article in what we hope will be a series on extraordinary gardens in the Annandale area. Please email suggestions for other gardens to highlight. The entire lot surrounding Cam Esser’s house in the Truro community of Annandale is grass-free. Instead of a lawn, there are all sorts … Continued