The Anise Hyssop plant has many names. some like: Giant Hyssop and its latin name Agastache foeniculum These Anise Hyssop packets have 30 seeds in each. Anise hyssop has an erect stature and spikes of lavender blossoms, which make a striking statement in the garden. Anise hyssop, Agastache foeniculum , is a short-lived, edible herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae, or mint family. Pick the leaves to make a delicious minty flavoured tea. It’s a native plant suited to gardens in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9. Long used in culinary and medicinal applications, its erect stature and spikes of lavender blossoms make a striking statement in the garden.
SIZE: Basket willow plants are approximately 1 - 2 feet high. Hardiness Zone : Thrives in Zones 4–8, making it suitable for temperate regions with cool to moderate winters. Soil Requirements : Prefers moist, well-drained soils but is highly adaptable to various soil types, including clay, sandy, or loamy soils. Tolerates waterlogged conditions, making it ideal for wetland areas or near water features. Growth Habit : A deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub with a narrow, upright growth habit. Typically grows 10–20 feet tall and 6–12 feet wide , though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. Flowering Time : Produces small, inconspicuous yellowish catkins in early spring (March to April), which attract bees and other pollinators. Basket Willow Varieties Basket willow is a crucial material for artisans engaged in the craft of basket weaving. Among the various types available, three primary varieties stand out due to their distinctive characteristics: Black Maul, Bleu, and Red Belgian. Each of these varieties offers unique attributes that influence the aesthetics and functionality of the final basketry product. Black Maul willow is notable for its deep, rich color, which can range from dark brown to nearly black. This variety is appreciated for its excellent flexibility. Manipulate it into intricate designs without compromising its structure. Black Maul is highly durable, making it suitable for both decorative and functional baskets. Its robust nature ensures that it withstands daily use while retaining its visual appeal over time. For projects aiming for a rustic charm, Black Maul is often the preferred choice. Bleu willow is recognized for its stunning bluish-gray hue. Provides a modern touch to basketry creations. The striking color can set it apart from traditional brown tones, appealing to contemporary designs. Bleu willow's flexibility is also enables weavers to create delicate patterns. It is an excellent choice for ornamental baskets or sophisticated home decor pieces. The unique color can add a refreshing element to any basketry project. Red Belgian willow is distinguished by its vibrant reddish tint. Making it one of the most visually striking options in basketry. This variety is very flexible. As it ages, the color deepens, enhancing the allure of the finished product. Red Belgian is particularly favored for showing how varying colors can influence the overall appearance of baskets. Crafting Baskets with Willow Creating beautiful baskets using basket willow is both an art and a rewarding craft. This endeavor begins with procuring the right tools and materials, which are essential for successful basket weaving. The primary materials needed include, various types of basket willow. Tools such as a sharp knife, pruning shears, a measuring tape, and a sturdy board for work. A soaking tub is also beneficial, as soaking the willow helps to soften the material, making it pliable and easier to work with. The first step in the basket-making process is preparing the willow. Begin by selecting the desired willow varieties, such as basket willow for its long, flexible stems. Cut the willow into manageable lengths and soak the stems in cool water for several hours or overnight. Which hydrates the fibers and enhance their flexibility. Weaving process. Start by determining the basket's design and planning the base. Lay out three or four willow rods in a star shape, which will serve as the base. Secure the ends and begin placing additional willow rods around the base. Weave them in an under-and-over pattern to form the sides of the basket. As you progress, regularly check the height and symmetry of the basket to ensure it adheres to your intended design. Beginners may wish to start with a basic round basket before exploring more complex patterns. Along the way, it is crucial to keep the willow well-moistened to prevent cracking during the weaving process. If issues arise, such as breaking strands or uneven tension, adjusting your grip and applying a gentle tug can help maintain the integrity of the basket. Incorporating creative flourishes, such as embellishments and varied colors, can personalize your basket. With practice, your technique will improve, and you can experiment with different styles and functional designs. This hands-on craft not only encourages creativity but also allows one to appreciate the skill involved in traditional basketry willow weaving.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) blooms from mid-summer to early fall and is a favorite of bees and other pollinators. A member of the sunflower family. Known for its bright yellow or orange flowers that are marked with a dark brown or black center. As a hardy and easy-to-grow plant. Well-suited to a variety of garden settings, including borders, meadows, and naturalized areas. Well-suited to a variety of soil conditions. It can grow in both dry and moist soil and is tolerant of drought, making it a good choice for areas with poor soil or low rainfall. Rudbeckia prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade, although it may not flower as heavily in shaded areas. Black-eyed Susan typically reaches a height of 1-3 feet and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. It is perfect for gardens in between USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Bright yellow and orange flowers, historically used for culinary purposes, come from easy calendula care when growing this simple flower. Commonly called the pot marigold (Calendula officinalis). All parts of calendula plants are useful in many ways. Flowers and leaves of the calendula may be dried and stored for later use. In the vegetable garden, calendula draws aphids away from valuable plants. While uses of calendula plants are diverse, growing calendula in the flower or herb garden is an optimum use of this attractive plant. Calendula plants are frost tolerant and somewhat cold hardy and add long-lasting color and beauty in a flower bed or container.
Catalpa Tree Discover the grandeur of the Catalpa tree (Catalpa speciosa) - a majestic deciduous tree esteemed for its large, heart-shaped leaves and captivating blooms. Sizes Explained A Grade - Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Key Features: Hardiness Zone (4-8): The Catalpa tree thrives in hardiness zones 4 to 8, showcasing its adaptability to various climates and making it an excellent choice for diverse garden landscapes. Soil Preferences: These trees prefer well-draining soil, tolerating various soil types. Loamy or sandy soils with good drainage promote healthy growth. Height and Width: Expect Catalpa trees to reach heights of 40 to 70 feet with a spread of 20 to 40 feet, offering a substantial and stately presence in gardens and yards. Flowering Time and Color: In late spring to early summer, Catalpa trees boast showy clusters of white, trumpet-shaped flowers with purple and yellow markings. The striking blooms create a stunning display against the tree's lush foliage. Fast Growth Habits: Renowned for their rapid growth, Catalpa trees establish quickly, forming a broad canopy and providing ample shade within a few years. Leaf Shape and Size: The Catalpa's large, heart-shaped leaves measure approximately 6 to 12 inches in length and provide a lush canopy. The leaves of a Catalpa tree are typically large and heart-shaped, characterized by a broad, ovate outline with a pointed tip and a rounded base. Additional Requirements: Sunlight Needs: Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Catalpa trees adapt to various light conditions, making them versatile for different garden settings. Watering and Maintenance: Regular watering during the growing season aids in establishing healthy growth. Minimal pruning is required, primarily to remove dead or damaged branches and shape the tree. Soil pH and Other Considerations: Catalpa trees are adaptable to different soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH for optimal growth. Regular fertilization may aid in enhancing flowering and foliage. Conclusion: With its magnificent foliage, captivating blooms, and rapid growth, the Catalpa tree remains a splendid choice for adding grace and beauty to any landscape. Whether as a shade tree or as a focal point, the Catalpa stands as an impressive addition to gardens and yards.
Bare Root Comfrey Plants. Root cuttings are 2-3 inch pieces of comfrey root which you can plant in the ground, pots or containers with soil or good compost. We grow everything naturally and organically on Little Tree Farm and do not use any chemicals. How do I use comfrey? Comfrey leaves are great for compost and have healing properties when used in the correct way.
Dappled Willow: A Striking Ornamental Shrub for Your Landscape The Dappled Willow (Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki') – an exquisite ornamental shrub renowned for its vibrant foliage and versatile growth habits, making it a captivating addition to any garden. Key Features: Hardiness Zone (4-9): This resilient shrub thrives in hardiness zones 4 to 9, showcasing adaptability to various climates and making it suitable for a wide range of gardens and landscapes. Soil Preferences: Dappled Willows prefer moist, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Loamy or sandy soils with adequate moisture retention foster optimal growth and vibrant foliage. Height and Width: Expect these shrubs to reach heights of 6 to 10 feet and spread 4 to 6 feet wide, providing a striking presence in gardens. Their arching branches create an elegant silhouette. Flowering Time: In early spring, Dappled Willows produce small inconspicuous flowers, but it's the foliage that steals the show with its vibrant colors. Fast Growth Habits: Known for its rapid growth, the Dappled Willow exhibits vigorous growth habits, establishing a dense and lush appearance in a relatively short time. Leaf Colors: The foliage features a captivating array of colors, showcasing shades of pink, white, and green throughout the growing season. Even when dried on the plant, the leaves retain their variegated beauty, providing year-round interest. Additional Requirements: Sunlight Needs: While it prefers full sun to partial shade, Dappled Willows tolerate a variety of light conditions, thriving in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates. Watering and Maintenance: Regular watering is essential, especially during the establishment period. Pruning promotes healthy growth and shape. Trim back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth. Soil pH and Color Maintenance: For vibrant foliage colors, maintain slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Regular fertilization can help retain the striking variegation in the leaves. Conclusion: With its dazzling foliage, adaptability, and rapid growth, the Dappled Willow stands as a versatile and visually stunning choice for adding vibrancy and allure to any garden landscape. Whether used as a specimen plant or in mixed borders, this shrub offers year-round beauty and charm.
Forsythia Explore the radiant beauty of Forsythia, an iconic flowering shrub cherished for its vibrant yellow blossoms heralding the arrival of spring. A Grade (Ground-Ready): Stronger, thicker stems for instant planting. B Grade (Ground-Ready) : Smaller than A grade and suitable for planting directly in the ground. Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Key Features: Hardiness Zone (4-9): Forsythia thrives in hardiness zones 4 to 9, showcasing its adaptability to various climates and making it a versatile addition to different garden landscapes. Soil Preferences: These shrubs prefer well-draining soil with moderate moisture content. Loamy or sandy soils are suitable, ensuring optimal growth and flowering. Height and Width: Expect Forsythia to reach heights of 6 to 10 feet with a width spanning 8 to 10 feet, providing a substantial presence in gardens and borders. Flowering Time and Color: These shrubs burst into a profusion of golden-yellow blooms in early spring, often before the foliage appears. The vibrant yellow flowers create a striking visual display, signaling the arrival of spring. Fast Growth Habits: Forsythia is celebrated for its rapid growth, establishing quickly and filling spaces with its bright blooms and green foliage. Leaf Colors: The foliage of Forsythia consists of bright green leaves. Even when dried on the plant, the leaves maintain their color, providing a touch of greenery through the seasons. Additional Requirements: Sunlight Needs: Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Forsythia adapts to different light conditions, making it suitable for various garden settings. Watering and Maintenance: Regular watering during the growing season aids in establishing healthy growth. Minimal pruning is necessary, primarily focusing on shaping or removing dead branches after flowering. Soil pH and Other Considerations: These shrubs are adaptable to different soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH for optimal growth. Regular fertilization may help enhance flowering and foliage color. Conclusion: With its radiant golden blooms, adaptability, and rapid growth, Forsythia remains a beloved and versatile choice for adding a burst of color and cheer to gardens. Whether as a standalone shrub or as part of a mixed border, Forsythia heralds the onset of spring with its vibrant display.
Golden Willow: Winter wonderland and summer greens. Introduction: Discover the captivating charm of the Golden Willow – an elegant and vibrant deciduous tree admired for its striking golden-yellow twigged branches and fast growth habits. A Grade (Ground-Ready): Stronger, thicker stems for instant planting. B Grade (Ground-Ready): Smaller than A grade and suitable for planting directly in the ground. Key Features: Hardiness Zone (2-9): Thriving in hardiness zones 2 to 9, the Golden Willow displays resilience across diverse climates, making it a versatile choice for a variety of landscapes. Soil Preferences: Golden Willows prefer, moist soil. They can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loamy or sandy soils, but perform best in consistently moist conditions. Great in standing water by rivers, lakes, streams. Height and Width: Keep them pruned every couple of years and they will produce beautiful yellow twigs and branches in a stunning display or 6 feet in height = being a small shrub. OR Let them become a mighty tree and reach heights between 30 to 50 feet and spread approximately 30 to 40 feet wide, providing a substantial and attractive presence in gardens and along water bodies. Flowering Time: While Golden Willows produce inconspicuous flowers in spring, it's the vibrant foliage that steals the show with its brilliant golden-yellow hues, creating a stunning display in the landscape. Fast Growth Habits: Renowned for its rapid growth, the Golden Willow establishes quickly, forming a graceful shrub and adding a bright touch to any setting. Can grow 5 foot branches in its first year. Keep pruned every few seasons to keep the young wood. Leaf Colors: Throughout the growing season, these trees flaunt their beautiful green leaves, creating a striking contrast against the landscape. Winter time unvails the lovely goldenyellow branches that stops you in your tracks against those white snowy days. Additional Requirements: Sunlight Needs: Golden Willows thrive in full sun to partial shade, making them adaptable to various light conditions in different locations. Watering and Maintenance: Consistent watering is essential, especially during the establishment period. Minimal pruning is required; remove dead or damaged branches to maintain tree health. Soil pH and Other Considerations: While adaptable to various soil types, these trees can thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Regular fertilization may help maintain vibrant foliage colors. Conclusion: With its stunning golden-yellow foliage, adaptability, and rapid growth, the Golden Willow stands as a versatile and eye-catching choice for bringing a bright and cheerful ambiance to any garden or landscape. Whether as a focal point or as part of a larger planting scheme, these trees offer enduring beauty and charm.
Honey Locust Tree (Gleditsia triacanthos) Sizes Explained A Grade (Ground-Ready): Stronger, thicker stems for instant planting. B Grade (Pot-Ready): Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Key Features: Hardiness Zone : Thrives in Hardiness Zones 3 to 9 , making it suitable for a wide range of climates. Soil Type : Prefers well-drained soils, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. Honey Locust is adaptable and can tolerate poor soil conditions. Height and Width : Reaches a mature height of 30 to 70 feet and a spread of 30 to 40 feet, providing ample shade and visual interest in your landscape. Fruit Size : Produces long, flat seed pods that can grow up to 10 inches in length. The pods contain sweet pulp and seeds that are attractive to wildlife. Growth Habits: Growth Rate : Fast growth rate of the honey locust tree, making it a great choice for quick shade. It can grow up to 2 feet per year under optimal conditions. Flowering Time : Blooms in late spring, producing small, fragrant greenish-yellow flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Caring for Your Honey Locust Tree: Sunlight : Requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Watering : Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, this tree is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Fertilization : Minimal fertilization is needed, but applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote healthy growth. Harvesting and Using the Fruit: Ripening : The seed pods mature in late summer to early fall, turning brown and hard. Culinary Uses : While not commonly consumed by humans, the sweet pulp inside the pods is enjoyed by wildlife and can be used to attract birds to your garden. Additional Information: Thorns : Some Honey Locust varieties have thorns, while others are thornless. Thornless cultivars are often preferred for home landscapes for safety. Pests and Diseases : Generally resistant to most pests and diseases, though monitoring for scale insects and honey locust plant bugs is recommended. Wildlife Benefits of the Honey Locust Tree: Honey Locust trees are excellent for attracting wildlife, providing food and habitat for birds and other animals. The sweet pulp of the seed pods is a favorite among many species, making this tree a valuable addition to your landscape. Enhance your garden with the Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) for a beautiful, low-maintenance tree that offers shade, wildlife support, and stunning seasonal interest. Order yours today and enjoy the benefits it brings to your outdoor space!
Honeysuckle Shrub: Enhance Your Garden with Natural Beauty Introduction: Discover the charm of the Honeysuckle shrub (Lonicera) – a delightful addition to any garden space. This versatile and visually appealing shrub is prized for its fragrance, vibrant blooms, and ease of care. Key Features: Hardiness Zone: Our honeysuckles typically thrive in hardiness zones 4-9. Soil Preferences: These shrubs prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A mixture of loamy soil with good drainage ensures healthy growth. Fruit Size: Honeysuckle shrubs produce small, berry-like fruits that vary in size depending on the species, typically around ¼ to ½ inch in diameter. Height and Width: Expect these shrubs to reach varying heights and widths based on the species, generally ranging from 6 feet to 15 feet in height and width, providing a lush, sprawling presence. Flowering Time: Most honeysuckle varieties bloom during late spring to early summer, displaying fragrant, tubular flowers that attract pollinators, such as hummingbirds and butterflies. Growth Habits: These shrubs showcase climbing or sprawling growth habits, with some species acting as climbing vines while others form dense bushes. Fruit Utilization: The fruits are best left for the birds. This is a great feature and wildlife plant for your garden. Ripeness: The fruits ripen during late summer to early fall, showcasing vibrant colors and a soft texture. Additional Requirements: Sunlight Needs: Most honeysuckle shrubs thrive in full sun to partial shade, ensuring proper sunlight exposure for healthy growth and prolific flowering. Watering Requirements: Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells or when the plant is establishing itself in the garden. Maintenance Tips: Pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages new growth. Remove dead or diseased branches to promote overall health. Conclusion: With their fragrance, vibrant blooms, and adaptability, honeysuckle shrubs offer an enticing addition to gardens. These versatile plants not only enhance the visual appeal of any landscape but also attract beneficial wildlife. Select the right species for your area to enjoy the beauty and benefits of these charming shrubs.
Horse Chestnut Tree The horse chestnut tree, known scientifically as Aesculus hippocastanum. It is a prominent deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 30 meters. Characterized by its expansive, rounded crown and robust structure, it often features a broad trunk that can exceed one meter in diameter. The bark is initially smooth and gray but develops into a scaly, dark-brown texture with age. One of the tree’s most distinguishing attributes is its large, palmate leaves Which typically consist of five to seven leaflets extending from a central stem, creating an attractive fan-like appearance. Key Features Large, stately shade tree with a rounded crown and impressive presence. Showy white flower spikes in spring (10–12" tall) often flecked with pink or yellow—high ornamental value. Distinctive palm-shaped leaves (5–7 leaflets) that give a tropical look. Produces glossy brown nuts (“conkers”) inside spiky green husks—great for wildlife and traditional crafts. Tolerates urban conditions , pollution, compacted soil, and partial shade. Fast-growing hardwood , excellent for parks, estates, farm lanes, and large yards. Growth & Planting USDA Planting Zone: 3–7 Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in full sun). Soil: Moist, well-drained loam is ideal, but tolerates clay, sand, and a range of conditions. pH: Neutral to slightly acidic ( 6.0–7.0 ). Spacing: 35–50 ft for long-term canopy development. Mature height: 50–75 ft Mature spread: 40–60 ft Growth rate: Moderate to fast. Why Grow Horse Chestnut? One of the most dramatic flowering trees for cold climates. Perfect for large properties, homesteads, and long driveways . Beautiful all year —big leaves in summer, conkers in fall, bold winter silhouette. Very hardy and adaptable , thriving across most of Canada, including Nova Scotia. Strong wildlife value , especially for pollinators during spring bloom. Horse chestnut trees thrive in a variety of soil types, although they prefer well-drained, moist, and fertile soils. They favor temperate climates with adequate rainfall and generally grow best in sunny locations, making them suitable for urban and suburban environments. The large, white flower clusters in spring are particularly striking and serve to attract pollinators, such as bees, contributing to biodiversity. Historically, the horse chestnut has been valued for its nuts, commonly referred to as conkers. These nuts have been used in traditional games and crafts. Caution is advised as they are toxic if ingested. The Magnificent Spring Blossoms of the Horse Chestnut Tree The horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) emerges as a spectacular sight each spring, thanks to its remarkable floral display. As buds unfurl, they reveal an abundance of large, upright flower clusters known as panicles, which can reach lengths of up to a foot. These panicles are striking, adorned with creamy white flowers that are often decorated with a blush of pink or yellow. Creating a vibrant contrast against the tree's lush green foliage. The flowers' distinct shape, with their elongated petals and prominent stamens, catches the eye of many admirers. Typically blooming in late April to early May, the timing of the blossoming season makes the horse chestnut tree a harbinger of spring. Drawing attention from both nature enthusiasts and casual passersby alike. Its blooming period usually lasts several weeks, offering ample opportunity for onlookers to appreciate its beauty. These blossoms are not only visually appealing; they also serve an important ecological purpose. The sweet, honey-like scent released by the flowers attracts a plethora of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This not only aids in the reproduction of the horse chestnut tree but also contributes to the biodiversity of surrounding ecosystems. They play a role in supporting pollinator populations. Horse chestnut trees enhance the health of gardens, parks, and urban environments. Furthermore, the horse chestnut’s resplendent flowers can elevate the aesthetic quality of any landscape. Their towering presence and stunning floral display make them a favored choice for ornamental planting. Especially in public squares and residential areas.
Every tree, shrub, and berry in our nursery is grown in Nova Scotia and selected for real Canadian conditions — short summers, cold winters, and everything in between. Whether you're planting a nut orchard, a berry patch, or restoring habitat with native plants, start with your hardiness zone and plant with confidence.