LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- Chris Olsen from Botanica Gardens always has great advice on home and gardening projects.
Segment 1: Sweet-smelling shrubs
One design element that most gardeners forget about is scent in the garden. Why would waste space on just a plan old holly bush when you can have a wonderful foundation planting of sweet gardenias. Chris's favorite varieties are 'Mystery' which has the big flower and 'August Beauty' which has smaller flowers but is a tougher plant.
But don't forget about the fragrant Star Jasmine. This plant is semi-bush and semi-vine. Great groundcover or trellis plant, the Star Jasmine is so easy to grow. Full sun to semi-shade is what it prefers. Both gardenias and jasmines require good drainage. Don't forget to fertilize after they both bloom and prune back after they flower.
Segment 2: Growing citrus in the South
Citrus plants are so easy to grow. Yes, you can have fresh citrus fruits in the South. Chris had a Lime tree for 8 years in a big pot that produced tons of limes. All he did was bring the pot in the garage for the winter. They also make great house plants.
Citrus require minimum care. Just keep moist, fertilizer with a citrus fertilizer per directions, and spray with Triple Action Plus to control diseases and insects. Now you have no excuse for not making a Key Lime pie!
Check out the videos for step-by-step instructions! And you can always visit Chris at Botanica Gardens, located at 1601 Rebsamen Park Road, for help on any gardening projects.