DIY Network

Outdoor Improvements From "Today Show Tips" episode DTST-125

(Continued from page 2)

Knock Out is perhaps the toughest rose ever developed and certainly one of the most popular.

Foolproof Plants

Not everyone has a knack for gardening, no matter how much they wish they did. Learn about some plants that are almost indestructible; they might be just what you need to create a garden that looks like it belongs to a real green thumb. And check out some eco-friendly ways to control diseases and pests, as well as some new tools for working in the yard.

Knock Out rose. Introduced in 2000, Knock Out became the fastest-selling rose in history. And for good reason: It is remarkably disease- and insect-resistant, and it produces brilliant red blossoms all summer long. Also available are Pink Knock Out, Blushing Knock Out, Double Pink Knock Out, Double Knock Out, Sunny Knock Out and Rainbow Knock Out. If you thought you couldn't grow roses or that they are just too fussy, the Knock Out family is for you. They'll even grow in containers.

advertisement

Stella d'Oro daylilies are just about the perfect plant: They bloom all summer, create an attractive and effective groundcover and are almost indestructible.

Daylilies. This plant is one of the most tenacious in the garden. It requires almost no maintenance; it spreads quickly and is easy to divide; and it comes in a range of colors from pale yellow to deep burgundy. While most bloom for only a few weeks a year, plant breeders have now developed several types that bloom all summer long: Stella d'Oro, Happy Returns and Rosy Returns are three of the most popular — except with deer. That's a big advantage!
Hostas.If you're looking for a little drama in the shade, be sure to check out the enormous family of hostas. Thousands of varieties range in color from blue to chartreuse leaves; many have patterned leaves, which add a bright spot in an area that doesn't see much sun. They are grown mostly for their foliage, but they also bloom. Each plant will continue to spread, so you can divide it every few years and have even more hosta in your yard.

Gold Standard hosta is named for the brilliant yellow hue of its foliage.

Variegated hostas brighten up shady corners of a garden.

Impatiens. Long a standby for shady gardens, impatiens can withstand sunlight, too, as long as it has plenty of water. It blooms all summer long, growing into mounds covered with white, pink, salmon and red blossoms. Impatiens also does well in pots. It's one of the most reliable annuals out there.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5