Q: While hiking last fall, I saw a small, short, blue-purple flower that I didn't recognize. do you know
A: It's actually a native wildflower called Fork Blue Snub (Trichhostema dichotomum) and it's in the mint family. Found primarily in the state, these small annuals bloom from late spring to early fall in a beautiful shade of deep blue-purple. They prefer open habitats with dry sandy soils of low fertility, such as B. Rocky sites (not much tree cover for dappled sunlight). I see them regularly in the Potomac Valley and they always bring me joy.
Q: I have an area in my garden that is constantly wet and usually surrounds a natural sink with water, eg. B. a small pond. It is far enough from the house to have trees and I would like to plant some plants in the area to add interest and value to the wildlife. What tree species can withstand such constant humidity? Maybe something weirder?
A: A variety of tree species can grace the grounds of a pond, and using a mix of species would be a great way to add wildlife value to your plantings while making them look more natural. However, some of these lesser used species can be difficult to find in nurseries as they are not among the main popular species (which is a shame as they are all interesting in their own right). If you want to start small, you can probably root cuttings or grow seeds from area sources where you can get a harvest permit.
Here are some suggestions:
- The alder is a relative of the birch found in humid areas and its roots can fix atmospheric nitrogen. A large shrub or small tree, 10 to 20 feet tall, the soft alder (Alnus serrulata) is abundant in Maryland, although several other species are found in more isolated parts of the state. To prevent erosion, herons and birds like the conifer-like seed cones.
- Black willow (Salix nigra) is found in every county in Maryland and plays an important role in protecting wildlife. Although slightly woody and fast growing, it is easy to rejuvenate when storms cause cosmetic damage and propagates very easily from cuttings. A certain group of local bees feed on the willow pollen that appears very early in the spring. Many caterpillars and other insects use plants as host plants and follow insectivorous birds.
- Bitter hickory (Carya cordiformis) is also found in Maryland and is the hickory species most associated with wetlands (of the seven species that grow here). Hazelnuts support the caterpillars of several moth species, and although they grow very large when mature, their growth rates are slow. Since young trees have very long roots, plant them in the ground as seedlings or small seedlings to minimize transplant stress.
- Bacon Cypress (Taxodium distichum), which may be better known in Maryland, although it does not technically grow north of Calvert and Dorchester, is planted in the coastal plains and Piedmont. Its hairy leaves turn a bright copper-orange in autumn. Many species of insects live here, and the underside of the trunk, which branches over time, leaves enough light on the ground for perennial shrubs and flowers, such as hickory, to grow around.
- Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) is an evergreen that occurs in a narrow strip on the coastal plain from Maine to Florida. (If possible, use native genetics that are best suited to our climate. This can be difficult as they are quite rare in Maryland.) their pleasant perennial interest.
If you're looking for an easier alternative or supplement, check out Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor), Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica), Virgin Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). Carp (Carpinus caroliniana). ) and red maple (Acer rubrum).
The University of Maryland Home and Garden Information Center offers information about gardens and pests at extension.umd.edu/hgic . Click Renew Request to submit questions and photos.
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