Donna

Hi there :)
Welcome to GT!

-- - Debbie, SW Ontario Canada (USDA Hardiness Zone: 5a)

Hello and WELCOME to GT!!! :-)

-- "A perfect garden is just a garden to be in-perfection. Mornings to work on it and evenings to pause and look at it." Southeast Michigan, Zone 5a/5b

Welcome to the Garden Tenders group.

I see that you are apparently from Easley, South Carolina zone 7b. Almost 8. You should be able to grow a lot of neat stuff there. Any photos would be appreciated. Gardenerr are always keen to know what some people can grow in differing areas. Some of us, up north here, try to emulate the southern look with varying success. LOL

-- jroot

Hi and Welcome to GT! :-)

-- Eklectic, Follow my Bliss, South East Ontario 5a

Yes, jroot…the winters are mild enough here in SC but the soil is pure red clay. I have been digging all summer with a mattock down about a foot or so and replacing it with Miracle Grow potting soil. An expensive and laborous undertaking to have flowers. Also we are in the middle of a drought, rarely rains, must water daily because of the heat. I inlist my teenagers help whenever they’re willing but I love working out with the mosquitoes anyway. I’m still learning about proper plant placement. Hope to pick up some ideas from you guys!

-- Donna, South Carolina,

Ah yes, I remember that red clay from my youth; in Alabama. My mom would have fits when we tracked it in through the kitchen floor! Hahahaha!!

Look forward to seeing what you have planted as well. Sounds like you are fighting the good fight … and winning! ;-)

-- "A perfect garden is just a garden to be in-perfection. Mornings to work on it and evenings to pause and look at it." Southeast Michigan, Zone 5a/5b

Hi Donna Welcome to GT.

-- Bon,Hastings,Ont.....zone 5a....Always room for one more

Thanks, Bon for the welcome. Looks like your efforts are paying off nicely. The berm is looking great!

-- Donna, South Carolina,

Thank you.I smile from ear to ear when I look at it. :-)

-- Bon,Hastings,Ont.....zone 5a....Always room for one more

I finally found out the name of that plant. It is Salvia Microphylla. Mystery solved.Thanks for everyone’s help…

-- Donna, South Carolina,

Hi, Donna! Welcome to GT!

-- Living on the square...Metro Detroit

Thanks for the welcome Damocles. I can’t believe a balloon plant can get that tall! I see you might have tips on chemical free gardening. Well, I could sure use some ideas. I love all the butterflies and bees and don’t want to hurt them but with two dogs and two cats the fleas are getting out of control. I’m about to give up and go chemical if I can’t find another solution. Any helpful ideas would be appreciated. The animals are all treated so they’re fine but the yard has not been for fear of killing the good guys.

-- Donna, South Carolina,