Readers get a chance to share their gardening tips

Spring signals gardening season for folks who love to dig in the dirt and see the fruits of their labor in bloom. And with the warmer weather and the perennials popping up, it's time to start thinking about planting and pruning.

New plants and varieties are showing up at nurseries and garden centers around the area. Some are the usual favorites, but gardeners often look for the unusual or rare plant to add texture, color or height to the garden.

Try to choose new perennials that will be hardy to the region and plants that can't be found at every other nursery center or home store.

Shade plants are quickly becoming big sellers for Plants Plus Nursery.

Hostas and astilbe are always popular, said Bettina Roberts. "But there's a lot more out there."

She quickly rattled off huchera, pulminaria, brunera and new varieties of hostas.

With new plants hitting the nursery stands, area gardeners should have an abundance of plants to add to their landscapes.

The Southeast Missourian is looking for people with great gardening tips or beautiful vegetables and produce in an occasional series this year.

You don't have to be a master gardener or an "expert" to qualify. We're looking for the best blooms, tips for planting and suggestions for what grows well in Southeast Missouri.

Send your suggestions to Laura Johnston, assistant managing editor-features, at ljohnston@semissourian.

com or call her at 335-6611, extension 126.

-- Southeast Missourian