This Week in Wildflower Gardening

We've just heard that a crew from "Gardening by the Yard", the popular gardening show on HGTV, the cable TV network, will be paying us a visit. During August, we'll be demonstrating "How to Install a Wildflower Meadow". Then after production, we'll announce the air date. (These things take time.)

Our friends, Jim and Susan McDowell have created a beautiful spot in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, surely one of the most beautiful places in the world. They've restored a colonial era manor house, turned it into an antique business, and also planted wildflower meadows all around. Jim recently sent us this incredible view of their field of red poppies and the magnificent Blue Ridge. Visit the McDowells and their beautiful business called Valley of Virginia Wildflowers and Country Antiques this summer. You'll find them just off I-81 (Exit 200)between Lexington and Staunton. Or click here and visit their website: Valley of Virginia Country Antiques.

Planting wildflower seeds in June is no different from May, except you have to water more. There is still plenty of time to get your seed in the ground for a full summer of bloom. During June, even annual species have plenty of time for full bloom before frost, but now's the time. Of course, perennials can be planted most any month. See our detailed Planting Instructions for more info on spring, summer, and fall planting.

The beautiful red poppy has been the symbol of the American Legion and a mark of respect for the fallen ever since World War I when the poppies finally bloomed in Belgium after years of war. It's displayed on US holidays and also for Remembrance Day in the UK.