The Key to a Healthier Lawn: The Power of Top Dressing

What This Spring's Strange Weather Means for Your Lawn, Garden, and Plants

If your lawn looks a little rough right now, or your shrubs seem slower to wake up than usual, you're not imagining it. This spring has been genuinely unusual, and your landscape has felt every bit of it. Here's what's been happening, what it means for your plants, and how to make the most of where we are right now. A Spring That Kept Us Guessing South Carolina springs are rarely perfectly predictable, but this one has been especially challenging. We came out of winter into a stretch of warm, spring-like temperatures that got everything excited — lawns greening up, shrubs pushing new growth, ornamentals starting to bud. Then temperatures dropped hard for about a week, with freezing lows that caught a lot of that new growth off guard. Stress like that takes a toll. Lawns and shrubs that had already committed to early growth were suddenly asked to endure cold they weren't prepared for. Recovery from that kind of stress is possible but it doesn't happen overnight. That temperature whiplash was then compounded by something even more impactful: a significant spring drought. Extended dry periods are hard on even the healthiest, most established landscapes. And while irrigation systems are genuinely valuable tools, there is something that irrigated water simply cannot replicate: the slow, steady, deep penetration of natural rainfall. Rainwater reaches the root zone differently, carries trace nutrients, and gives the soil a kind of thorough saturation that sprinkler systems approximate but can't truly match. What You Might Be Seeing Right Now After weeks of drought stress layered on top of cold-weather stress, some common symptoms are showing up across the area: Thin or bare spots in the lawn. These are often areas where the turf was already under pressure and couldn't withstand the combined drought and cold. The good news is that most established lawns will slowly fill back in as conditions improve. It just requires patience and, in some cases, a little targeted help. Shrubs that are slow to recover. If your shrubs look sparse, dull, or less lush than you'd expect this time of year, they may still be working through the stress of the past few weeks. Most will come around, but they need consistent moisture and time. Flowers that aren't lasting as long. When plants are stressed, their blooms tend to be shorter-lived. Flowers that would normally hold for a week or two may be turning more quickly right now. This should improve as conditions normalize. The Good News: The Timing Is Actually Working in Our Favor The cooler temperatures and several days of steady rain we've had are genuinely helpful. They're giving lawns and shrubs a chance to recover. They're allowing the soil to rehydrate at a depth that irrigation doesn't always reach. And they're arriving at exactly the right moment in the season. Ground temperatures are just now reaching the ideal range for planting. That might surprise you after the cold stretch we had, but soil temperatures lag behind air temperatures, and right now, the soil is primed. This is the window serious gardeners wait for, and if you've been holding off on planting because the weather felt unpredictable, now is genuinely the time to move forward. It's also worth knowing that many of our suppliers are delivering prime material right now. This is peak season for our growers, and what's arriving on our lot reflects it: healthy, well-grown plants that have had a full season to develop. The selection at Cold Creek right now is some of the best we see all year. A Note on the Drought The rain we've had this week was very welcome, and it will help. But the drought is not over. A few days of rainfall makes a meaningful difference, especially for stressed plants, but it doesn't fully replenish what weeks of dry conditions have drawn down from the soil. Going forward, it's worth being attentive to moisture levels, particularly for anything newly planted, and for any lawns or beds that showed signs of stress. If you have irrigation, make sure it's running efficiently and covering the areas that need it most. If you don't, this is a good time to think about whether a more consistent watering approach might protect what you've already invested in your landscape. How Cold Creek Can Help If you're a current Cold Creek landscape client and you're noticing things that concern you, like bare spots, struggling shrubs, recovery questions, your account manager is the right first call. They know your property, and they're the best resource for helping you figure out what warrants attention and what just needs time. If you don't currently have a landscape management relationship and you're looking at your yard wondering where to start, we'd love to come out and take a look. Our team can assess what's going on, talk through what your property needs, and help you find a maintenance program that actually fits. Reach out to us and we'll get something scheduled. And of course, if you're ready to plant, come see us. The greenhouse and tree and shrub lot are full of beautiful material right now, and with Mother's Day this weekend, there has never been a better time to find something that will grow and give for years to come. A flowering shrub, a statement tree, a lush container planting — we have all of it, and our staff are here to help you choose exactly right. Questions about your property? Reach out to your Cold Creek account manager, or contact the landscaping maintenance team at 803.648.0329 to schedule a property visit. We'd love to help.

The Secret to Beautiful Container Gardens: Thriller, Filler, Spiller Explained

You've seen them before. A container on someone's front porch or at a restaurant entrance that looks so full, so lush, so intentional, and you've wondered how they pulled it off. It doesn't come down to luck or a natural gift for design. It comes down to a formula. Once you learn it, you'll use it every single time you plant a container, and your results will look like a professional put them together. The formula is called Thriller, Filler, Spiller, and it's simpler than it sounds. What Is the Thriller, Filler, Spiller Method? Thriller, Filler, Spiller is a container gardening design technique that uses three types of plants, each with a specific role, to create arrangements that have height, fullness, texture, and movement all in one container. The method works because it mirrors how we naturally perceive beautiful spaces: there's a focal point, supporting layers, and a finishing touch that ties it all together. Whether you're a first-time gardener or someone who's been planting for years, this technique removes the guesswork and gives you a reliable framework to work from. Step 1: Choose Your Thriller The thriller is the star of the container. It's the tallest plant in the arrangement and the first thing the eye goes to when someone looks at your container. Its job is to add vertical drama and give the container a clear focal point. Without a thriller, the container feels flat and unfinished, no matter how many other plants you've added. Where to place it: If your container will be viewed from all sides, plant your thriller in the center. If it will only be viewed from the front, like on a porch or against a wall, plant it toward the back. Best Thriller Plants for Spring Containers in South Carolina South Carolina's spring season is generous, but our heat arrives early. Choose thrillers that establish quickly and can handle the transition into warmer temperatures. Cordyline (Ti Plant): Bold, spiky foliage in deep burgundy or bright green. Adds serious structure and holds up beautifully in our Aiken heat as the season progresses. Purple Fountain Grass: Dramatic arching habit with feathery plumes. A classic thriller choice that brings movement to any container. Tall Salvia: Spikes of violet or blue flowers that attract pollinators. Upright habit makes it a strong vertical anchor. Caladium: Not tall in the traditional sense, but the bold patterned foliage is eye-catching enough to serve as a thriller in partially shaded containers. Angelonia: Vertical, elegant, and heat-tolerant. Blooms continuously through summer with very little maintenance. Step 2: Add Your Filler Once your thriller is in place, it's time to surround it with filler plants. Fillers are rounded, mounding plants that sit at mid-height in the container. Their job is to cover the soil, fill in the visual gaps around the thriller, and add color and texture at the second layer of the arrangement. This is where your container goes from sparse to lush. You can use one filler variety or mix two to three different plants for added interest. Don't be stingy here, the more you fill this layer, the richer and more professional the finished container will look. Where to place them: Plant fillers between the thriller and the outer edge of the container, leaving just enough room along the rim for your spillers. Best Filler Plants for Spring Containers Petunias: A reliable, high-performing filler in almost any color. Bloom heavily and respond well to pinching back as the season progresses. Begonias: Especially strong in South Carolina's heat and humidity. Dragon Wing begonias are particularly stunning as a filler. Coleus: Grown for foliage rather than flowers, coleus adds bold color and texture and performs exceptionally well in our warm climate. Calibrachoa (Million Bells): Tiny, bell-shaped flowers in masses of color. Works as both a filler and a light spiller along the edges. Impatiens: A classic choice for shaded containers. Consistent color and easy to maintain throughout the season. Step 3: Finish with a Spiller Spillers are the finishing touch that takes a container from good to great. These are trailing plants that cascade over the sides of the pot, softening the hard edges of the container and giving the whole arrangement a natural, organic feel. A well-chosen spiller makes it look like the plants grew there on their own, and that's exactly what you're going for. Plant spillers around the outer edge of the container, all the way around if it will be viewed from multiple angles, or across the front edge if it's a front-facing arrangement. Best Spiller Plants for Trailing Color and Texture Sweet Potato Vine: Fast-growing and available in chartreuse, deep purple, and bronze. Cascades dramatically and pairs well with almost any color combination. Creeping Jenny: Lime-green trailing foliage that brightens darker arrangements and cascades beautifully over container edges. Bacopa: Small white or lavender flowers on delicate trailing stems. Adds a soft, refined look to any container. Trailing Verbena: Long-blooming and heat-tolerant. Trails several inches and produces clusters of color throughout the season. Torenia (Wishbone Flower): Delicate bicolor blooms in purple, pink, blue, and white cascade softly over container edges from spring through frost. No deadheading required, torenia is self-cleaning and keeps producing flowers all season long, even in the heat and humidity of a South Carolina summer. Pro Tips for Putting It All Together Knowing the three roles is the foundation. These tips are what separate a good container from a great one. Match sun and water requirements across all three plants. This is the most common mistake. A thriller that needs full sun paired with a spiller that prefers shade will mean one of them is always struggling. Before you put plants in the same container, confirm they share the same light and water needs. Go bigger than you think you need to. Containers almost always look sparse the day you plant them. Resist the urge to underplant. A fuller planting that looks slightly crowded at the start will grow into something beautiful. A sparse planting just looks sparse. Use quality potting mix, not garden soil. Garden soil compacts in containers and does not drain properly. A quality potting mix gives your plants the drainage and aeration they need to thrive through the season. Fertilize regularly. Container plants don't have access to nutrients the way in-ground plants do. A slow-release fertilizer at planting, followed by liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks, will keep your containers blooming and full through the season. Deadhead your fillers. Pinching off spent blooms encourages your filler plants, especially petunias and calibrachoa, to produce new flowers continuously rather than going to seed. Ready to Build Your Perfect Container? Now that you know the formula, the fun part is choosing your plants. The combinations are nearly endless, and the results are consistently beautiful when you follow the framework. If you're in the Aiken, South Carolina area, come see us at Cold Creek Nurseries. Our team can walk you through the best thriller, filler, and spiller combinations for your specific space, sun exposure, and color preferences. We carry a curated selection of high-quality annuals and perennials specifically chosen for our region, and we're happy to help you put together a container that looks like it was designed by a professional. Stop in and see what's in season. We'd love to help you make something beautiful.

What Not to Do Right Now If You Don’t Want to Ruin Your Landscape Before Spring Jan 23

Landscape damage doesn’t only happen in the heat of summer.It can happen right now — when homeowners try to “get ahead.” Every winter, we see it: well-meaning yard work that quietly sets landscapes back weeks (or even months) before spring ever arrives. The frustrating part? The mistakes are common, avoidable, and often recommended by outdated advice. If you want your landscape to wake up healthy, full, and ready to thrive, there are three things you should absolutely not do right now — and three smart moves you can make instead. Let’s save you the regret. The 3 Things NOT to Do Before Spring (Even If It Feels Productive) 1. Be Careful About Pruning Too Early Pruning too early can feel like a fresh start, but in many cases, it’s one of the fastest ways to stress plants or reduce spring performance. When pruning is done before cold risk has passed without considering site conditions, it can: Expose tender growth to frost damage Interrupt natural dormancy cycles Reduce blooms and overall vigor in spring Many plants rely on their winter structure for protection. Removing that protection too early can leave them vulnerable. That said, pruning timing isn’t black-and-white. There is a best window for most plants, and there is also an acceptable range that depends on: plant type plant age (new vs. established) exposure and protection surroundings (brick, pavement, structures) overall plant health and condition Sometimes pruning early is necessary to support plant health, manage damage, or address site-specific needs. Bottom line:Early pruning isn’t always wrong, but it should be intentional, informed, and plant-specific. Advice given in-store is intentionally conservative, while on-site recommendations may vary based on conditions specific to your property. Our maintenance team can assess your landscape in person and handle pruning when timing and conditions are appropriate. 2. Don’t Fertilize This one surprises people. Fertilizer signals plants to grow. Right now, your landscape is resting — and forcing growth during dormancy can: Create weak, leggy growth Increase susceptibility to disease Waste nutrients that plants can’t properly absorb yet Fertilizing too early is like revving a car engine while it’s still in park. Nothing good comes from it. 3. Don’t Rake Leaves Away From Plants Leaves aren’t messy — they’re protective. Raking leaves away from beds exposes soil and roots to temperature swings and moisture loss. Those leaves act as: Natural insulation Moisture retainers Organic matter that improves soil over time Removing them now can shock plants and strip your soil of valuable nutrients just before spring growth begins. The 3 Smart Things You Can Do Right Now Now for the good news. There are ways to get ahead — without risking damage. 1. Add Compost If there’s one thing that improves almost every landscape, it’s compost. Adding compost now: Builds healthier soil structure Improves drainage and moisture retention Feeds beneficial microorganisms You’re not forcing growth — you’re quietly setting the stage for stronger roots and better performance when spring arrives. 2. Apply Pre-Emergent Weeds don’t wait for spring. They plan ahead — just like you should. Applying pre-emergent now helps: Prevent weed seeds from germinating Reduce competition for nutrients and water Save you time, money, and frustration later This is one of the most effective “do it once, benefit all season” steps you can take. 3. Plant (Yes, You Can Plant!) This is the biggest misconception of all. Many trees, shrubs, and perennials actually prefer being planted now. Cooler temperatures allow: Strong root development Less transplant stress A head start before spring growth kicks in By the time everyone else is planting, yours will already be established and thriving. The Takeaway Spring success doesn’t start in spring.It starts with what you don’t do right now — and the few strategic steps you take instead. Skip the pruning, fertilizing, and aggressive cleanup.Focus on soil health, weed prevention, and smart planting. And if you’re unsure what’s right for your landscape, that’s where we come in. Stop guessing. Start growing smarter. Visit us to talk with our team to make sure your landscape is set up for its best season yet.

Elevate Your Home Ambiance with Unscented Candles

Unscented candles are more versatile than you might think. Whether you have elegant pillar candles or slender taper candles, they can transform your home, enhance your table centerpieces, and create cozy ambiance—without overpowering the aroma of your food. Here are six creative ways to make the most of unscented candles: 1. Romantic Dinner Candles and Elegant Table Centerpieces Unscented candles are perfect for setting the mood at the dinner table. Mix tall taper candles with shorter pillar candles on a tray, and surround them with seasonal foliage, decorative stones, or pinecones to create an elegant centerpiece. Because they’re unscented, these candles allow the aroma of your meals to shine, making every dinner—whether romantic or casual—feel special and inviting. 2. Lanterns and Candle Holder Ideas Bring charm and sophistication to any space with pillar or taper candles in lanterns or glass candle holders. Use them on a mantel, side table, or outdoor patio for a warm, flickering glow. Combining different candle heights adds visual interest and depth, creating a stylish display that enhances any room or outdoor setting. 3. DIY Candle Decorating Unscented candles serve as the perfect canvas for DIY decorating projects. Try painting, decoupaging, or wrapping them with twine, ribbons, or greenery to match seasonal decor or personal style. These creative touches can transform simple candles into stunning home accents, party favors, or centerpiece elements. 4. Candles for Bath and Relaxation Elevate your self-care routine by adding unscented candles to your bath. Their soft glow promotes calm and relaxation without interfering with the scents of bath oils, bubble baths, or soaps. Pillar and taper candles strategically placed around your tub can turn an ordinary bath into a spa-like retreat. 5. Outdoor Candle Decor for Events Unscented candles are ideal for weddings, backyard dinners, or garden parties. Their gentle light enhances the ambiance without competing with the natural scents of food or flowers. Use them in lanterns, votives, or outdoor table centerpieces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. 6. Emergency Candles for Home Use Keep a few unscented candles on hand for practical purposes like power outages. Their neutral fragrance and elegant design make them reliable and multi-purpose household staples. Pillar and taper candles are not only functional but also stylish, ensuring your home stays lit with charm in any situation. Unscented candles are far more than simple decor—they’re versatile tools for creating ambiance, inspiring creativity, and providing practical solutions. Whether you’re hosting a romantic dinner, relaxing in the bath, decorating for outdoor events, or preparing for emergencies, these candles bring warmth, elegance, and style to any setting.

Easy Flavor Upgrades with Terrapin Ridge Garnishing Sauces

If you’ve ever felt like your meal needed just a little something extra—a tangy drizzle, a spicy kick, or a creamy finish—you’ll love our Terrapin Ridge garnishing sauces. These versatile flavor boosters are a simple way to turn everyday ingredients into something memorable. Garnishing sauces are made to be the final flourish or dipping companion for your favorite dishes. But don’t let the word “garnish” fool you—these aren’t just pretty. They’re packed with flavor, and just a squeeze or spoonful can transform vegetables, proteins, sandwiches, and more. We’re currently carrying three customer favorites:Buffalo Ranch, Sriracha Aioli, and Bang Bang Sauce—and all three pair perfectly with items you’ll find right here in our Market. 1. Buffalo Ranch Creamy, tangy, and with just the right amount of heat, this one’s a game-changer for roasted or air-fried vegetables. Try it over: Air-Fried Eggplant Rounds – Slice and crisp up eggplant, then drizzle with Buffalo Ranch for a kicked-up appetizer or meatless main. Crispy Chicken Wings – We carry locally raised chicken wings—you can fry or air-fry and dip away. Loaded Baked Potatoes – Top a roasted potato with cheese, scallions, and Buffalo Ranch for a satisfying, simple dinner. 2. Sriracha Aioli This creamy sauce adds a subtle garlic warmth with a hit of spice—it’s amazing on just about everything. Brussels Sprouts & Mushrooms – Roast until crispy, then serve with a dollop of Sriracha Aioli on the side or right on top. Shrimp Wraps or Bowls – Grab some shrimp from our cooler, cook them up, and serve with rice, slaw, and this aioli. Burger Night – Swap plain mayo for this aioli on burgers made with our local beef or even plant-based patties. 3. Bang Bang Sauce Sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy, Bang Bang Sauce is practically begging to be paired with crispy bites and seafood. Bang Bang Shrimp – Toss fried or sautéed shrimp in the sauce and serve over rice. Mini Flatbread Pizzas – Use a sliced demi baguette, top with veggies, cheese, and drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce after baking. Sweet Potato Fries – Pick up some of our locally grown sweet potatoes, slice and roast, and serve with Bang Bang on the side. More Meal Ideas: Caprese Skewers with a Drizzle – Add a twist to classic tomato, mozzarella, and basil combo with a touch of Sriracha Aioli or Bang Bang Sauce. Stuffed Mushrooms – Use our herbed cream cheese or pimento cheese, stuff mushrooms, bake, and garnish with any of the three sauces. Breakfast Sandwiches – Use our farm-fresh eggs, bacon, and English muffins with a swipe of any of these sauces for a bold start to your day. Grilled Veggie Bowls – Combine zucchini, onions, peppers, and rice, and top with your favorite Terrapin Ridge sauce for a quick lunch or dinner. Whether you're dressing up leftovers or building something new, these sauces are the perfect way to bring bold flavor to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Pick up a bottle (or all three!) and browse the Market to find everything you need to create delicious combinations at home.

Locally Made & Blooming with Flavor: King George Lavender Simple Syrup

At Cold Creek, we love supporting small businesses that care deeply about the quality and integrity of their products—and King George Lavender fits that bill beautifully. Based just up the road in Barnwell, SC, King George Lavender is a family-run farm known for its fragrant fields of organic lavender and the handcrafted goodies that come from them. Every item they produce is a true labor of love—grown, harvested, and bottled with care. One of our favorite offerings from their line is the Lavender Simple Syrup—a refreshing floral syrup that brings the soft, soothing notes of lavender to everything it touches. Crafted in small batches with vapor-distilled water, pure cane sugar, and hand-harvested organic lavender flowers, this syrup is as clean and pure as it is flavorful. And in the heat of a Southern summer, it’s just the thing to cool you down in the most elegant way. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it: Lavender Lemonade – Add a splash to fresh-squeezed lemonade for a floral twist that feels straight out of a spa day. It’s both calming and invigorating. Iced Lavender Lattes – Stir it into your iced coffee or cold brew for a sophisticated, subtly sweet lift. Cocktails & Mocktails – Mix it into a gin fizz, vodka spritz, or non-alcoholic sparkling water with a wedge of lemon for a porch-perfect summer sip. Drizzled Over Dessert – Try it on vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or lemon sorbet. It's also delicious over pancakes or waffles with a little fresh fruit. Lavender Spritzers – Combine it with soda water, cucumber slices, and mint for a super refreshing mocktail that’s just as lovely to look at as it is to drink. This syrup comes in a charming 9oz bottle and makes a sweet gift for your favorite foodie—or yourself! Whether you’re elevating your afternoon tea or creating a signature summer drink for guests, King George Lavender’s simple syrup brings a gentle, aromatic touch that’s both unexpected and unforgettable. Come grab a bottle in our Market and bring a little local lavender luxury into your kitchen this summer.

What Is Honeycomb and How to Use It in the Kitchen

If you’ve ever seen a piece of honeycomb at a farmer’s market or in a specialty shop and wondered what to do with it, you’re not alone. This golden, hexagon-patterned delicacy is more than just beautiful—it’s an incredibly delicious and versatile ingredient that brings both sweetness and texture to your favorite dishes. So, What Is Honeycomb? Honeycomb is exactly what it sounds like: a waxy structure made by honeybees to store honey and pollen, and to house their larvae. Each hexagonal cell is filled with raw honey and then capped with a thin layer of beeswax to preserve its freshness. When you buy honeycomb, you’re getting both the honey and the wax—straight from the hive and untouched by processing. What makes honeycomb special is that it’s completely edible. The honey is rich, floral, and deeply flavorful, and the wax adds a unique chewy texture that slowly melts in your mouth. Is Honeycomb Safe to Eat? Yes! Raw honeycomb is safe to eat and has been enjoyed for centuries around the world. The beeswax is digestible in small amounts, and chewing it is part of the experience—similar to enjoying a soft natural gum. How to Use Honeycomb in the Kitchen While it’s delicious on its own (yes, you can just cut a piece and eat it!), honeycomb really shines when used in your everyday meals and snacks. Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy it: 1. On a Cheese Board Honeycomb is a beautiful and tasty addition to a charcuterie or cheese board. Pair it with creamy cheeses like brie, camembert, goat cheese, or even sharp aged cheddar. The sweet and savory combo is unbeatable. 2. Spread on Warm Bread or Biscuits Let the honey melt slightly into warm toast, English muffins, or buttery biscuits. The wax adds a subtle chew, while the honey soaks into the bread—pure heaven. 3. Drizzled Over Salads Crumble bits of honeycomb over fresh greens, roasted nuts, and goat cheese for a sweet note and light texture in your salad. It pairs especially well with balsamic vinaigrette or citrus-based dressings. 4. On Breakfast Dishes Top yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes with a spoonful of honeycomb. It adds richness, natural sweetness, and a bit of visual flair to your morning routine. 5. Served with Fruit or Ice Cream Honeycomb with fresh berries or stone fruit is a simple yet elevated dessert. Or try it with a scoop of vanilla or mascarpone ice cream for a decadent treat. 6. In Hot Drinks (with a note) You can stir a small piece into hot tea, but keep in mind the wax won’t fully dissolve. It will soften, though, and you can chew or remove it after it infuses your drink with that unmistakable honey flavor. A Natural Work of Art Aside from its culinary uses, honeycomb is simply beautiful. It makes a lovely addition to gift baskets, breakfast trays, or brunch spreads. And because it’s raw and unfiltered, it still contains small amounts of pollen, enzymes, and antioxidants—making it not just delicious, but also full of natural goodness. If you haven’t tried honeycomb before, stop by the Market and pick some up. Whether you add it to your favorite dish or enjoy it straight off the spoon, you’re in for a sweet, unforgettable treat.

Freestone Peaches: A Juicy Southern Treasure

Summer in the South brings many sweet gifts, but few are as beloved as the freestone peach. If you’ve ever bitten into one, you know exactly why they’re worth celebrating. Bursting with sun-ripened flavor and that classic peach perfume, freestone peaches are a seasonal favorite—and here in our neck of the woods, we’re lucky enough to live just a county over from the Peach Capital of the World. So what makes a freestone peach different from other varieties? It’s all in the pit. With freestone peaches, the flesh pulls easily away from the stone—making them incredibly convenient for slicing, baking, and preserving. Unlike their firmer cousins, the clingstone peach (where the flesh "clings" to the pit), freestones are prized for how effortless they are to work with, especially in the kitchen. Freestones typically arrive mid-to-late summer and are known for their rich, sweet flavor with just a hint of acidity that balances out the sugar. Their soft, juicy texture makes them perfect for eating fresh, sliced over yogurt, or layered into shortcakes and cobblers. Some people grill them for a smoky twist, others churn them into ice cream, or preserve them in jars to keep a bit of summer on the shelf all year long. And of course, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying them straight off the tree, juice running down your chin and all. Here in South Carolina, we don’t take our peaches lightly. In fact, just one county over is Edgefield County, proudly part of the region often dubbed the Peach Capital of the World. This area's warm days, cool nights, and fertile soil produce some of the best peaches in the country—flavorful, fragrant, and full of that old-fashioned, just-picked magic. If you haven’t had a freestone peach yet this season, now is the time. Keep your eye on the Market—we have the good ones coming in fresh, and we can’t wait to share the flavor of summer with you.

Sweet Corn Season: How to Make the Most of Summer’s Favorite Crop

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, local sweet corn in the summer—and right now, we are absolutely brimming with it. We have gorgeous bicolor ears, grown right here in South Carolina using non-GMO, Southern-selected varieties. These special varieties were chosen for their exceptional flavor and texture—they stay sweet and crisp, never starchy, even after picking. It’s everything you love about traditional corn, with none of the old-fashioned drawbacks. Whether you’re boiling it up for a backyard cookout or looking for something new to try in the kitchen, sweet corn is one of the season’s greatest pleasures. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy this summer staple: 1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter Sometimes simple is best. Peel back the husks (but don’t remove them entirely), remove the silk, and fold the husks back over the corn. Soak the ears in water for 10–15 minutes, then grill over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally. Serve with homemade herb butter—try mixing softened butter with chopped parsley, chives, garlic, and a pinch of sea salt. Sweet, smoky, and summery! 2. Fresh Corn Salad with Tomatoes and Basil Cut the kernels off a few raw ears of sweet corn and toss with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, fresh basil, and a splash of olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add crumbled feta or mozzarella pearls for a refreshing side dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners. 3. Corn Chowder (Yes, Even in Summer!) Our crisp, sweet corn makes a beautiful chowder that’s not too heavy for warm weather. Start with sautéed onion, garlic, and diced potato in a bit of butter. Add fresh corn kernels (cut from the cob) and vegetable broth. Simmer until tender, then blend half of the soup for creaminess while leaving the rest chunky. Stir in a splash of cream and top with chopped chives and crispy bacon bits. 4. Corn Fritters or Hushpuppies If you’re feeling a little Southern, mix corn kernels into a simple fritter or hushpuppy batter with a bit of flour, cornmeal, egg, baking powder, and seasonings. Fry until golden and serve with a drizzle of honey or a dab of hot pepper jelly. A crispy, irresistible snack or side. Whether you’re tossing it on the grill, mixing it into a salad, or cooking it into something cozy, this sweet corn is a highlight of the season—and with varieties this good, you’ll taste the difference in every bite. Stop by while the corn is fresh and the season is in full swing—you’ll want to bring home a few extra ears for the freezer, too!

Getting Creative with Patty Pan Squash in the Kitchen

If you've never cooked with patty pan squash, you're in for a treat. These charming, scalloped-edge squash come in shades of pale green, yellow, and creamy white and look a bit like flying saucers—making them as fun to look at as they are to eat. But don’t let their cute appearance fool you—patty pan squash are versatile, flavorful, and deserve a spot in every summer kitchen. What is Patty Pan Squash? Patty pan squash, also known as scallop squash, is a type of summer squash with a tender skin and soft, buttery interior. Unlike winter squash, you don’t need to peel it—just rinse and cook. When harvested young, they're especially sweet and mild with a delicate, almost nutty flavor that pairs well with a wide range of herbs, cheeses, and proteins. Their firm texture holds up well to various cooking methods, from grilling to roasting, sautéing, or even stuffing. Here are a few delicious ways to bring patty pan squash into your kitchen this season: 1. Roasted Patty Pan with Garlic and Herbs A simple roast really brings out the best in patty pan squash. Cut them into quarters (or halves if they’re small), toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and a handful of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Roast at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes until golden and tender. Serve as a side dish, or toss with cooked quinoa and goat cheese for a light lunch. 2. Stuffed Patty Pan Squash Thanks to their shape, patty pans make perfect edible bowls. Cut off the tops and hollow out the centers, then stuff with a savory filling—think sautéed onions, ground sausage or mushrooms, cooked rice, Parmesan, and a few breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F until the squash is fork-tender and the tops are golden brown. It’s a beautiful and hearty dish that feels a little fancy but is simple to pull together. 3. Grilled Patty Pan Skewers Slice patty pan squash into thick rounds or wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, chunks of red onion, and bell pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor. 4. Summer Squash Sauté Patty pan squash plays nicely with other summer vegetables. Slice it thin and sauté with zucchini, sweet corn, and cherry tomatoes in a little butter or olive oil. Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice, then finish with fresh basil. Serve as a light side or toss it with pasta and a dusting of Parmesan for a fresh summer meal. Patty pan squash is one of those ingredients that makes cooking in the summer a joy—quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re roasting, stuffing, grilling, or sautéing, these cheerful little squash are ready to add beauty and flavor to your table. Have a favorite way to cook patty pan squash? Share it with us next time you stop in the Market or leave a comment—we love swapping kitchen inspiration!

4 Easy Pickling Recipes to Brighten Your Summer Table

There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming fresh produce into flavorful, long-lasting pickled treats. Whether you're preserving your garden harvest or grabbing a few extra veggies at the market, these quick pickling recipes are a fun and easy way to add zing to your meals. Here are four of our favorites: crisp dill pickles, tangy red onions, spicy jalapeños, and zesty giardiniera. Quick Dill Pickles (24 oz) Crisp, classic, and ready in just a few days. These are your sandwich’s best friend. Ingredients: 1 quart pickling cucumbers 4 sprigs of fresh dill 1 cup water 1 cup vinegar 2 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp salt Instructions: Slice cucumbers into spears or discs and place them in a 24 oz jar with the dill. Bring water, vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil to make your brine. Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers. Let it cool, seal the jar, and refrigerate. Wait 6–7 days before eating. These pickles are best enjoyed within 3 weeks. Pickled Red Onions (24 oz) Beautifully vibrant and full of tang, these onions elevate everything from tacos to toast. Ingredients: 1 quart red onions (sliced into half moons) ½ cup water 1½ cups vinegar ½ cup sugar A big pinch of salt Optional: Star anise, black peppercorns for a flavor twist Instructions: Pack sliced onions into a jar. In a saucepan, bring water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and optional spices to a boil. Pour the hot brine over the onions (strain out any whole spices). Let it cool, seal, and refrigerate. They’ll be ready in 6–7 days and stay fresh for 2 weeks. Pickled Jalapeños (24 oz) Add a little heat to your plate! These spicy slices are perfect on nachos, burgers, and eggs. Ingredients: 1 quart jalapeños, sliced 3 cups vinegar ½ cup sugar 1 bay leaf Instructions: Add sliced jalapeños to your jar. Bring vinegar, sugar, and the bay leaf to a boil. Pour brine over the jalapeños, let it cool, then seal the jar. Refrigerate for 6–7 days. Enjoy within 3 weeks. Homemade Giardiniera (24 oz) A colorful, crunchy medley that’s equally at home on charcuterie boards, sandwiches, and salads. Ingredients: 8–12 cauliflower florets 1 bell pepper 1 carrot 1 celery stick ½ onion 3 cloves garlic 1 cup vinegar 1 tbsp dried oregano 1 tbsp chili flakes 1 tbsp celery seed A big pinch of salt ¼ cup olive oil Instructions: Dice all vegetables and garlic. Season generously with salt and pack them into a jar. Bring vinegar, oregano, chili flakes, celery seed, and salt to a boil. Pour the brine over the veggies, let cool, then seal the jar. Refrigerate for 6–7 days. Then strain the brine, mix in olive oil, and enjoy! Best consumed within 3 weeks. Whether you’re new to pickling or a seasoned pro, these recipes are simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Store them in your fridge and let your taste buds thank you later. Happy pickling!

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan (Just Like My Family Does)

By Nicole Lane If there’s one dish that can bring my whole Sicilian family to the table with smiles and big appetites, it’s Eggplant Parm. It’s a labor of love—but worth every step. And like many family recipes, this one comes with a few opinions (and secret tricks). My Dad makes it best, and while I hate to admit it, his idea of adding white American cheese in the middle really is a game changer. Here’s how we do it in my kitchen—and in his. You can take your pick on a few of the steps! Step 1: Peel, Slice, and Sweat the Eggplant Start with 3–4 fresh eggplants. Begin by peeling them—this helps remove the slightly tough skin and gives you a smoother, more tender final dish. Once peeled, slice the eggplant thinly and evenly. A mandolin is perfect for getting uniform slices, but a steady hand and a sharp knife will work just fine. Line a large baking sheet with paper towels and lay the slices out in a single layer (no overlapping). Lightly sprinkle them with salt. Cover with another layer of paper towels, then place a second baking sheet on top. Add something heavy—like a cast iron pan—to press them down. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness. Let the eggplant sit like this for about 30 minutes. Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Station You’ll need three shallow dishes: One with flour One with beaten eggs One with seasoned breadcrumbs For the breadcrumbs, use Italian-style or plain and season them yourself. I like parsley, oregano, garlic powder, and a small pinch of salt. Step 3: Fry the Eggplant Heat a large skillet with oil about ½ inch deep. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Fry each piece until golden brown on both sides. Set them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain. You can place paper towels under the rack for easy cleanup. Step 4: Build the Layers Now comes the fun part—assembling the dish. You can use store-bought sauce or your favorite homemade version (we call it “gravy” in my house). I like to start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the pan. My Dad skips it and goes straight to the eggplant. Either way works—do what makes you happy. Layer it like this: Sauce (or not) A full layer of eggplant (cut some pieces in half to cover every inch) Another small layer of sauce Mozzarella cheese Repeat those layers until you reach the top of your dish. Somewhere in the middle—this is my Dad’s trick—add a single layer of white American cheese above the mozzarella. It sounds odd, but trust me, it melts beautifully and adds a velvety bite that surprises people in the best way. Top it off with more mozzarella and, if you like, a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Step 5: Bake Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 30–45 minutes until it’s bubbling. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes to brown the cheese on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so everything can settle. Then dig in! A Dish Worth the Work This dish is a project, so I usually make a big batch—using 3 to 4 eggplants—to get a few trays out of it. The best part? Eggplant Parmesan freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly once it’s cooled and freeze for those days when you need a comforting homemade meal without all the prep. Hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!

Blueberries: Summer’s Little Gems Bursting with Flavor

Blueberry season is here, and we couldn’t be happier. These small but mighty berries are one of summer’s sweetest treasures—and our Market is stocked with the freshest, juiciest blueberries you’ll find, perfect for everything from breakfast to dessert and all the snacking in between. Whether you enjoy them by the handful or baked into something special, there’s nothing quite like a blueberry picked at the peak of ripeness. A Berry with Deep Southern Roots Blueberries thrive in our Southern climate, and for generations, they’ve been a backyard staple as well as a prized crop. Their deep blue color, delicate skin, and satisfying pop make them one of the most beloved fruits of summer—especially when they’re locally grown and freshly picked, like the ones we carry right here at our Market. Unlike store-bought berries that are often picked early and shipped long distances, our blueberries are grown close to home, which means you’re getting them full of flavor, not preservatives. What Makes a Good Blueberry? Fresh, ripe blueberries should be: Plump and slightly firm Deep blue with a silvery “bloom” (that’s a natural protective coating!) Juicy and sweet, with just a touch of tartness Ours check every box—because we only bring in the best. Simple, Elegant Ways to Enjoy Blueberries Blueberries are wonderfully versatile, and their sweet-tart flavor makes them a favorite in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are just a few ways to let them shine: 1. Fresh and Simple Toss a handful into your morning yogurt or oatmeal, or serve them alongside a cheese board with soft goat cheese, honey, and almonds. 2. Classic Blueberry Muffins Warm, buttery, and dotted with bursting berries—blueberry muffins are a morning classic that never goes out of style. 3. Blueberry Salad Upgrade Add them to a summer salad with baby spinach, feta cheese, toasted pecans, and a light balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect balance of sweet and savory. 4. Blueberry Compote Simmer with a little sugar and lemon zest to create a luscious topping for pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream. 5. Frozen for Later Blueberries freeze beautifully. Just rinse, dry, and spread them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a container—perfect for smoothies or baking all year long. A Taste of the Season You Won’t Want to Miss Summer is fleeting, and so is blueberry season. Stop by the Market to grab a pint (or two!) while they’re at their best. Whether you’re baking, preserving, or just enjoying them fresh, blueberries bring a burst of sunshine to every dish. We’d love to hear your favorite way to use them—feel free to share your go-to recipes, tips, or family traditions with us the next time you visit!

Cherokee Purple Tomatoes: A Heirloom Rich in History and Flavor

There are tomatoes—and then there are Cherokee Purple tomatoes. With their dusky color, full-bodied flavor, and storied past, these heirloom beauties have earned a special place in the hearts (and kitchens) of tomato lovers across the South. At our Market, we’re proud to offer Cherokee Purples grown right here in South Carolina. Their flavor is exceptional, their history meaningful, and their uses in the kitchen? Nearly endless. A Slice of History The Cherokee Purple is believed to have been passed down through generations of the Cherokee people in Tennessee before being introduced to the broader gardening community in the 1990s by seed saver Craig LeHoullier. When he first saw the tomato—its skin a dusky rose with shoulders tinged in deep green—he almost didn’t believe such a fruit could be real. But it was. And more than thirty years later, it’s become one of the most beloved heirloom tomatoes in American gardens and kitchens. What Makes It So Special? Cherokee Purple tomatoes are known for their complex, rich flavor—often described as smoky, sweet, and slightly earthy. Unlike the bright acidity of a typical red tomato, Cherokee Purples offer a more mellow, almost wine-like depth. Their flesh is dense and juicy, with a deep reddish-pink hue marbled through with green. They’re not bred for uniformity or long-distance shipping. They’re grown for flavor—and you can taste that with every bite. A Few Delicious Ways to Enjoy Them If you’ve only ever had grocery store tomatoes, the Cherokee Purple is a revelation. Here are just a few ways to make the most of them: 1. The Perfect Tomato Sandwich Thick slices of Cherokee Purple, a swipe of mayonnaise, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and soft white or sourdough bread. That’s it. No need to overthink perfection. 2. Caprese Salad with a Twist Layer slices of Cherokee Purple with fresh mozzarella and garden basil. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and finish with flaky sea salt. The darker color and richer flavor of the tomato bring new dimension to this classic dish. 3. Fresh Tomato Tart Use Cherokee Purples in a savory tart with puff pastry, goat cheese, caramelized onions, and herbs. Their flavor holds up beautifully when roasted, and their appearance makes for a stunning presentation. 4. Bruschetta or Tomato Toast Dice the tomato and toss with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Spoon over grilled bread and top with a few basil leaves and shaved Parmesan. 5. Sliced, Salted, and Served Sometimes the best way to enjoy a truly good tomato is the simplest: sliced thick, seasoned with a pinch of salt, and eaten right off the cutting board. Taste a Southern Heirloom at Its Finest Cherokee Purple tomatoes are more than just produce—they’re a piece of agricultural history with a flavor that speaks for itself. Come by the Market this week to bring home a few and experience what a real tomato should taste like. We’d love to hear how you’re enjoying yours—tag us in your tomato creations or let us know your favorite way to serve them!

Cooking with Bradford Collards: Classic & Creative Ways to Enjoy a Southern Heirloom

Once you’ve brought home a beautiful bunch of Bradford Collards from our Market, the question becomes: how best to enjoy them? These heirloom greens, grown with care right here in South Carolina, are flavorful, tender, and remarkably versatile. Whether you prefer time-honored traditions or enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, Bradford Collards are a joy to cook with. Here are a few delicious ways to prepare them: 1. The Southern Classic: Slow-Simmered with Smoked Meat There’s nothing more comforting than a pot of collards gently simmered with smoked ham hock, turkey wings, or bacon. Bradford Collards shine in this preparation thanks to their naturally tender leaves and rich, buttery flavor. To Make: Sauté onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil or rendered bacon fat. Add chopped collards, cover with broth (chicken or vegetable), and tuck in a smoked meat of your choice. Simmer on low for 45 minutes to an hour until the greens are soft but not mushy. Finish with a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors. 2. Quick Sauté with Garlic and Olive Oil For a lighter option, Bradford Collards can be prepared just like spinach or kale. Their tender texture means they don’t require a long cook time. To Make: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add chopped collards, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until wilted but still vibrant. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes. 3. Braised with Tomatoes and Onions This slightly sweet and tangy method is inspired by Gullah and Lowcountry cooking traditions. It’s a great side dish for roasted meats or seafood. To Make: Cook sliced onions until soft, add diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), and then add your collards. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar or molasses. Simmer gently until the greens are tender and the flavors meld. 4. Collard Wraps: A Healthy, Southern-Inspired Twist Use large, whole Bradford Collard leaves in place of tortillas for wraps. Blanch them briefly in boiling water to soften, then fill with your choice of grains, vegetables, and proteins. Great Combinations: Brown rice, black-eyed peas, and roasted sweet potatoes Quinoa, hummus, cucumber, and grilled chicken Leftover pulled pork with slaw and hot sauce 5. Collard & White Bean Soup A nourishing, rustic soup that makes a satisfying meal on cool evenings. To Make: Sauté garlic, onion, and celery. Add chopped Bradford Collards, a can of white beans, and broth. Simmer until the greens are tender. Add a squeeze of lemon and top with shaved Parmesan or a swirl of olive oil for a refined finish. 6. Southern Stir-Fry Add chopped collards to a skillet with onions, bell peppers, and sausage or shrimp for a quick one-pan meal. Bradford Collards hold up beautifully and soak up the flavors around them. One Green, Endless Possibilities Whether you’re preparing a Sunday supper or a quick weeknight dish, Bradford Collards add depth, flavor, and a sense of place to your plate. Their heritage and local roots make them special—but it’s their taste that will keep you coming back. Pick up a bunch this week at the Market and try one of these preparations—or get creative with your own! If you discover a new favorite, we’d love to hear about it.

Bradford Collards: A South Carolina Heirloom with Deep Roots

Some vegetables carry more than just flavor—they carry a story. Bradford Collards are one such treasure, and we’re proud to offer them fresh from Bradford Farm, just a short drive from here. These aren’t your average grocery store greens. Bradford Collards are an heirloom variety, steeped in Southern history and cultivated with care to preserve their unmatched taste and cultural significance. A Taste of the Past, Grown in the Present The Bradford family name is familiar to many in the South, particularly for their efforts to revive the Bradford Watermelon, a long-lost variety known for its sweetness and thin rind. That same spirit of preservation and reverence for the land extends to their collards. The Bradford Collard is a traditional, non-hybrid variety that’s been passed down through generations of farmers in South Carolina. Unlike modern commercial collards bred for transport or shelf life, these are grown for one thing only: flavor. They’re deeply green, tender without being fragile, and offer a rich, almost buttery taste with just the right balance of bitterness. In short, they taste the way collards used to taste—before shortcuts and mass production changed the way we farmed and ate. From Field to Our Market We receive our Bradford Collards directly from Bradford Farm, where they’re grown using regenerative practices that honor the land and local ecology. Every leaf is harvested with intention, ensuring peak freshness and nutrient density. When you buy them from our Market, you’re not only bringing home a superior green—you’re supporting a legacy of Southern farming, sustainability, and flavor. Why They Taste Better Bradford Collards aren’t rushed to maturity, nor are they engineered to withstand long-distance shipping. As a result, their cell structure remains intact, giving them a tender texture when cooked and a richer flavor profile than commercial varieties. They're high in natural sugars, especially after the first cool nights, which softens their bite and enhances their depth. They also have a more open leaf and delicate stem, making them easier to clean, chop, and cook quickly—no long simmering required to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Experience a True Southern Heirloom If you grew up with a pot of greens simmering on the stove, one bite of Bradford Collards will take you right back. And if you’re discovering collards for the first time, there’s no better introduction. Visit our Market to pick up a bunch of these locally grown, heritage greens and taste the difference for yourself. Bradford Collards are more than a vegetable—they’re a living piece of South Carolina history.

Perfectly Peachy: Fresh Ways to Enjoy Summer’s Sweetest Fruit

There’s nothing quite like the taste of a perfectly ripe peach—and at Cold Creek’s Market, we’ve got some of the juiciest, most flavorful peaches around, fresh from Dixie Belle in Johnston, SC and bursting with sunshine. Whether you’re stocking up for snacking or planning something special in the kitchen, peaches are one of our most versatile—and beloved—fruits. Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of peach season: 1. Grilled PeachesGrilling brings out the natural sweetness of peaches and gives them a beautiful smoky edge. Just halve, pit, and brush with a little oil or melted butter before placing them on the grill. Serve warm with a scoop of our Market’s gelato or pair with grilled chicken or pork for an easy, elevated dinner. 2. Peach SalsaA customer favorite during our annual Peach Festival! Dice fresh peaches and mix with red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro for a sweet-and-spicy salsa. It’s fantastic with chips or served over grilled fish or shrimp. 3. Peach Caprese SaladSwap tomatoes for peaches in this sweet twist on a classic. Slice fresh peaches and layer them with mozzarella and basil, then drizzle with a balsamic reduction. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for summer entertaining. 4. Sweet StartsPeaches are a beautiful way to brighten up breakfast. Add them to pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal—or top off a bowl of Greek yogurt with sliced peaches and granola. Cold Creek’s granolas and local honey make the combo even better. 5. Cobblers, Crisps, and CakesNothing says summer quite like a warm peach cobbler. Whether you’re baking up a batch for a family dinner or making mini crisps for two, we’ve got everything you need in our Market—from fresh fruit to baking staples. 6. Homemade Peach PreservesCapture that peach flavor and enjoy it all year long by making your own jam or preserves. Great for gifting (if you can bear to give any away). 7. Peach Iced Tea & LemonadeCool down with a refreshing glass of peach tea or peach lemonade. Add peach slices directly to your pitcher, or blend up a purée to stir in. You can even freeze puréed peaches into ice cubes to add a sweet twist to any drink. 8. Savory Peach SaladsPeaches pair beautifully with savory ingredients like arugula, goat cheese, and pecans. Create a fresh summer salad with ingredients from our Market—or stop by and let us help you put together the perfect mix. 9. Freeze for LaterPeach season is short, but you can keep the flavor going. Slice and freeze peaches to use later in smoothies, baked goods, or sauces. Just lay them out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to freezer bags. Peach season won’t last forever—stop by Cold Creek’s Market and savor the season while you can. We’d love to hear how you’re using your peaches, so tag us in your peachy creations or let us know next time you visit!

How to Build the Perfect Charcuterie Board with Market-Fresh Finds

Charcuterie boards have become the go-to choice for entertaining—perfect for cozy nights in, lively gatherings, or even as thoughtful gifts. And the best part? They’re as fun to build as they are to enjoy. Whether you lean rustic and relaxed or elevated and elegant, a good board brings together bold flavors, beautiful textures, and a bit of creativity. At Cold Creek’s Market, we carry (almost) everything you need to build a board that’s both delicious and delightful—from handcrafted cheeses to local honeys, sweet treats, crunchy crackers, and fresh fruits. Let’s break it down: Start with the Base Every great board starts with, well... a great board. Choose from our selection of wooden boards and trays, or line a cutting board with parchment for a casual look. Let your style shine—go classic, seasonal, or totally themed. Pro tip: Grab one of our cheese boards to serve as your foundation—you’ll use it again and again. Choose Your Cheeses This is where your board really starts to sing. We offer a beautiful selection of artisan cheeses that vary in texture and flavor. Mix soft and firm, bold and mild, cow’s milk and goat. Favorites from our Market: Ashe County: Cheddar, Pepperjack, Bleu, Mountain Marble, Gouda Jim’s Cheese: Cheddar with Cranberries, Cheddar with Blueberries Clemson Bleu Cheese (a local classic!) Spreads that Steal the Show Sweet, savory, spicy—spreads pull the whole board together. Ours are sourced from local makers and bursting with flavor. Featured favorites: Jams & Jellies: Dutch Kettle, Southern Roots Sisters Honeys: Edisto Honey, Billue Honey, River Bluff Honey Dips & Spreads: Joy’s Gourmet,Faithful Foods (hello, pimento cheese!) Pair fig jam with goat cheese, drizzle honey over blue cheese, or swipe a cracker through artichoke dip—you can’t go wrong. Crackers, Bread, and a Bit of Crunch Every board needs a base for building that perfect bite. We carry a variety of crackers and bread mixes so you can serve it fresh or gift the mix for a bake-at-home moment. Find in the Market: Dr. Pete’s Bread Mixes Several styles of ready-made crackers—thin, crisp, and hearty Pickled & Briny Goodness Add tang and texture with briny bites. A few pickled items create contrast and cut through rich cheeses beautifully. Market favorites: Pickled veggies & olives by Davina, Stamey’s, and Dutch Kettle Fresh Fruit & Sweet Treats Grapes, strawberries, figs, or apple slices bring freshness and color to your board. Round it out with a few indulgent bites from our Market shelves. Sweet additions we love: Griffs Toffee Watanut Shortbread Cookies Fat Toad Caramel Yon Family Farms Chocolate Covered Pecans Spring & Mulberry Gourmet Chocolate Cold Creek Caramel Popcorn Cold Creek Trail Mixes, Nut Mixes, Pecans, and Walnuts Finishing Touches & Styling Tips Presentation makes all the difference. Tuck in a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme, pile ingredients in little cups (we carry those!), and use our cheese knife sets for serving. Don’t forget decorative napkins—fun, festive, or elegant, we’ve got them all. Host a Charcuterie Night or Build a Gift Box Invite a few friends and let everyone create their own board using Market finds—it’s a guaranteed good time. Or build a Charcuterie Gift Box featuring a curated selection of cheeses, spreads, pickles, crackers, and a mini jar of local honey or jam. P.S. Our popular Bites & Delights gift board even includes meat—so if you’re looking to gift a full experience, we’ve got you covered. Visit Us & Let’s Build Something Beautiful Stop by Cold Creek’s Market and let us help you gather all the goods to build the ultimate board. Whether you’re entertaining ten or enjoying a cozy night in for two, we’ve got just what you need to make it special—from the first crunchy bite to the last sweet finish. Because around here, a good spread starts with great ingredients—and we’ve got those in spades.

Planting on Good Friday: Folklore, Faith, and Garden Truths

According to folklore, plants grow better and bear more fruit when planted on Good Friday. It’s a long-standing belief, especially among gardeners in the southern U.S., that this holy day holds a touch of divine favor for new beginnings in the soil. But is there any truth to this tradition — or is it just a charming superstition? Rooted in Tradition This belief has been passed down through generations, especially in rural communities where faith and farming often went hand in hand. For many, Good Friday symbolized a time of hope, renewal, and quiet reverence — the perfect setting to place seeds in the earth. Gardeners in warmer zones, particularly throughout the Southeast, still swear by the idea that planting on Good Friday — or sometime during Holy Week — brings good fortune to your garden. Some even say seeds planted on this day will resist pests and yield a more abundant harvest. But What Does Science Say? While the symbolism is beautiful, the truth is that plants don’t follow the liturgical calendar — they follow nature’s cues. What really matters is: Soil temperature: Most vegetables need the soil to be at least 50°F to germinate well. Frost dates: If you plant too early and a frost hits, your seedlings could suffer or die. Soil moisture: Working wet soil can compact it, making it harder for roots to grow. In warmer zones, like much of the Southeast and parts of the West, Good Friday often aligns with ideal planting conditions, which is likely why the tradition stuck around. In cooler climates, however, the soil may still be too cold or wet for reliable planting. A Beautiful Blend of Belief and Biology At the end of the day, there’s no harm in planting on Good Friday if conditions are right. In fact, it can be a lovely ritual — a moment of peace, purpose, and connection with nature. Whether you follow the old wisdom for faith, tradition, or just because the timing works out, the most important part is simply getting your hands in the dirt. So if the sun is shining, the soil is warming, and your gardening spirit is stirring — maybe planting on Good Friday is the perfect start to your season after all.

The Firefly Petunia: A Glowing Marvel for Your Garden

Imagine stepping outside on a warm summer evening, the soft glow of your garden creating a magical, moonlit ambiance. With the Firefly Petunia, that dream becomes a reality! This revolutionary petunia is unlike anything seen before—it actually glows at night, adding a mesmerizing touch to landscapes, patios, and hanging baskets. What Makes the Firefly Petunia Special? The Firefly Petunia isn’t just another pretty bloom; it’s a scientific breakthrough in the world of gardening. Through innovative technology, this petunia emits a natural, gentle glow when the sun goes down, mimicking the enchanting beauty of fireflies in the night. Glows in the Dark – As dusk falls, the Firefly Petunia comes to life, radiating a soft luminescence that makes evening gardens truly magical.Easy to Grow – Just like traditional petunias, this variety thrives in garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets, bringing effortless beauty to any space. Loves the Sun – During the day, these petunias soak up the sunlight, preparing to glow as night approaches.A First of Its Kind – Be among the first to experience this extraordinary, light-emitting plant! Why You’ll Love the Firefly Petunia Whether you’re looking to create a dreamy moonlight garden, add a conversation piece to your patio, or simply experience the joy of plants in a whole new way, the Firefly Petunia is a must-have. It’s perfect for garden enthusiasts, night owls, and anyone who loves a little magic in their outdoor spaces. Pre-Order Now – Limited Availability! This highly anticipated petunia is now available for pre-order, but quantities are limited! Don’t miss your chance to bring this one-of-a-kind glowing flower into your garden. Reserve yours today HERE!

Asparagus: Unique Ways to Enjoy It and How to Pick the Best Stalks

Asparagus is a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or even using it raw, asparagus brings a fresh, vibrant flavor to your meals. If you’re wondering how to take your asparagus game to the next level, here are some unique ways to enjoy it, plus tips on how to pick out the best stalks at the store! Unique Ways to Use Asparagus in the Kitchen Asparagus FriesTurn your asparagus into a crispy, savory treat by making asparagus fries. Simply dip the spears in egg wash, coat them with breadcrumbs or panko, and bake or fry until golden and crunchy. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a fun appetizer or side dish. Asparagus Pesto Pesto doesn’t always have to be made with basil! Try using asparagus as the base for a unique pesto. Simply blend cooked asparagus with garlic, lemon juice, nuts (like almonds or pine nuts), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be tossed with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or drizzled over roasted vegetables. Asparagus TacosGive your tacos a veggie upgrade by adding sautéed or roasted asparagus to your filling. Pair it with black beans, corn, avocado, and your favorite salsa for a delicious and nutritious taco that’s a bit outside the box. Asparagus Quiche Asparagus is perfect for adding color and flavor to a savory quiche. Combine it with cheese, eggs, and your choice of herbs in a flaky pie crust for a brunch-worthy dish that’ll impress your guests. Asparagus Salad with CitrusFresh asparagus is a great addition to salads, especially when paired with bright citrus flavors. Blanch the asparagus to preserve its color and tenderness, then toss it with oranges, lemons, or grapefruit, along with leafy greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad. Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan & Balsamic GlazeGrilling asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, and when you finish it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of Parmesan, you have a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Asparagus Soup For a creamy and comforting option, try making a velvety asparagus soup. Sauté onions and garlic, add asparagus and broth, then purée everything until smooth. Top with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the dish. How to Pick Out the Best Asparagus When you’re shopping for asparagus, it’s important to choose fresh, tender stalks to get the most out of your veggie. Here are some tips to help you select the best bunches: Look for Bright Green or Purple TipsFresh asparagus should be bright green or even slightly purple at the tips. Avoid stalks with yellowing or wilting tips, as these are signs of aging or poor quality. Check the StalksThe stalks should be firm and smooth with no cracks or blemishes. Thicker stalks are generally sweeter and more tender, while thinner ones may be tougher. Both have their uses, but if you’re after tenderness, opt for medium to thicker stalks. Look for FreshnessIf you see asparagus in a bunch with dry or “woody” ends, it’s likely not fresh. The ends should be moist and juicy, not dried out. If they’re looking dry, ask the store if they’ve been sitting out for too long. Snapping the StalkTo avoid waste, try snapping one of the stalks. Fresh asparagus will naturally break at a certain point where the tender part meets the tougher, woody bottom. You can trim the rest of the bunch to match. Buy Local When PossibleAsparagus has a relatively short growing season, so try to buy it when it’s in season locally. Locally grown asparagus is often fresher and more flavorful than imports, and it supports your local farmers! Asparagus is an easy-to-make yet versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of unique ways in the kitchen. Whether you’re turning it into crispy fries, a fresh salad, or a creamy soup, there are endless possibilities. And when you pick out your asparagus at the store, follow these tips to ensure you’re choosing the best of the bunch. Luckily, at The Market at Cold Creek, we only have fresh asparagus from Monetta, SC! Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy this nutritious and delicious vegetable all season long!

Sweet & Spicy: The Perfect Summer Cornbread with Fresh Corn & Jalapeños

Nothing says summer like the combination of sweet, golden corn and the zesty kick of fresh jalapeños. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or looking for a side dish that steals the show, Jalapeño Cornbread is a must-try! Why Corn & Jalapeños? Bicolor corn brings a naturally sweet flavor, while jalapeños add just the right amount of heat—making them the perfect pair. Toss them into cornbread, and you get a dish that’s moist, flavorful, and packed with summer goodness. Try This Delicious Jalapeño Cornbread Recipe! This recipe, from Food & Wine, takes classic cornbread up a notch with fresh corn kernels, jalapeños, and red bell pepper. Baked in a cast-iron skillet, it has a perfectly crisp crust and a soft, slightly sweet interior. Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil* ¼ cup finely chopped seeded jalapeños * ¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper* ¼ cup fresh corn kernels* ¾ cup sugar ½ cup water ½ cup vegetable oil 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 ¼ cups medium-grind cornmeal* 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt* 4 large eggs (lightly beaten)* Optional Toppings: Butter* Honey* How to Make It: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet. Add jalapeños, red pepper and corn and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until wilted, about 4 minutes. Scrape mixture onto a plate and let cool completely. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel. Stir together sugar and water in a large bowl until sugar dissolves. Stir in vegetable oil. Sift together flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt into a medium bowl. Beat dry ingredients into sugar mixture with an electric mixer. Add eggs and cooked vegetables and beat until just blended. Scrape batter into cast-iron skillet and bake until golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, about 30 minutes (if top browns too quickly, cover with foil). Serve cornbread warm. Serve it warm with butter, honey, or alongside smoky BBQ meats. It’s the ultimate sweet and spicy side dish for any summer gathering! *Items with an asterisk are available in The Market at Cold Creek!

Strawberries: The Sweet Secret Ingredient Your Kitchen Needs

Strawberries are often thought of as a simple snack or a classic dessert ingredient, but these vibrant little berries have so much more to offer. Their natural sweetness, slight acidity, and bright flavor make them a surprisingly versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. If you’ve only been using strawberries for shortcakes and smoothies, it’s time to shake things up! Here are some unique and delicious ways to incorporate strawberries into your cooking. Savory Strawberry Salad Forget the typical fruit salad—strawberries bring a bold, juicy twist to savory salads. Try tossing sliced strawberries with peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans, then finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty—creates a refreshing summer bite that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a glass of crisp white wine. Strawberry Pizza Pizza with strawberries? Absolutely! You can take this dish in two delicious directions. For a sweet treat, spread a layer of whipped cream cheese over a thin crust, top it with fresh strawberry slices, and drizzle with honey. If you're feeling adventurous, go savory by pairing strawberries with salty prosciutto, peppery arugula, and a balsamic reduction. The sweet-savory contrast makes for an unforgettable flavor combination. Strawberry Bruschetta Strawberries shine in this twist on traditional bruschetta. Dice fresh strawberries and toss them with chopped basil and a balsamic glaze, then pile the mixture onto toasted baguette slices. Top with creamy ricotta or burrata cheese for a luxurious, crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors makes this an instant hit at any gathering. Strawberry & Cucumber Gazpacho Chilled soups are a summer staple, and strawberries bring a delightful new dimension to the classic gazpacho. Blend strawberries with crisp cucumber, a splash of lime juice, and a handful of fresh mint or basil for a light, refreshing dish. This cool, slightly sweet soup is perfect as an appetizer or a palate cleanser on a hot day. Strawberry BBQ Sauce Barbecue lovers, take note—strawberries can add a whole new level of depth to your sauces. Cook fresh strawberries down with balsamic vinegar, honey, and a hint of spice to create a tangy-sweet BBQ sauce that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork, or even roasted vegetables. The natural fruitiness enhances the smoky flavors of grilled foods, creating a sauce that’s both unexpected and delicious. Ready to Get Cooking? Strawberries deserve to be more than just an afterthought in your kitchen. Whether you're looking for a fresh salad, a unique appetizer, or a bold new BBQ sauce, these recipes prove that strawberries can do it all. So next time you pick up a carton, think beyond the dessert menu—your taste buds will thank you! What’s your favorite unexpected way to use strawberries? Share your ideas with us! Ingredients in bold are available in The Market at Cold Creek!

The Timeless Beauty of Ferns: A Southern Staple for Your Porch

Ferns have long been a classic feature of Southern porches, gracing homes with their lush, vibrant greenery. Their delicate fronds sway in the breeze, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any space. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we offer a variety of ferns that thrive in our Southern climate, each with its own unique characteristics and care requirements. Whether you’re looking for a bold, dramatic fern or a delicate, airy variety, we have the perfect one for you. Let’s explore the different types of ferns we carry and how to care for them. Macho Fern Characteristics: The Macho Fern lives up to its name with large, bold fronds that can grow up to 3-4 feet wide and tall. Its deep green leaves create a lush, tropical feel, making it an excellent choice for adding drama to a porch or garden. Requirements & Care: Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Humidity: Loves high humidity; misting occasionally can help keep the leaves looking their best. Best Use: Ideal for hanging baskets, large pots, or shaded garden beds. Boston Fern Characteristics: One of the most iconic ferns for Southern porches, the Boston Fern is known for its arching fronds and feathery foliage. It’s a favorite for hanging baskets, where its cascading leaves create a graceful, flowing look. Requirements & Care: Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Water: Requires consistently moist soil—never let it dry out completely. Humidity: Loves high humidity; regular misting will help prevent fronds from drying out. Best Use: Perfect for hanging baskets, porch planters, or indoor spaces with filtered light. Asparagus Fern Characteristics: Though not a true fern, the Asparagus Fern is loved for its soft, needle-like foliage and its ability to add texture to arrangements. It’s a vigorous grower and can spill beautifully over the edges of containers. Requirements & Care: Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can handle some sun. Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Humidity: Enjoys higher humidity but is more drought-tolerant than other ferns. Best Use: Works well in hanging baskets, mixed containers, or as a groundcover in shaded gardens. Kimberly Queen Fern Characteristics: Unlike the Boston Fern, which has a more relaxed growth habit, the Kimberly Queen Fern features upright, structured fronds that give it a neat, elegant appearance. It’s highly adaptable and more tolerant of sun than other ferns. Requirements & Care: Light: Can handle more sun exposure than other ferns but prefers partial shade. Water: Keep soil consistently moist; avoid letting it dry out. Humidity: Appreciates humidity but is more drought-tolerant than Boston Ferns. Best Use: Ideal for large planters, entryways, and sunny porches. Creating a Classic Porch Look with Ferns Ferns are the quintessential Southern porch plant, offering a timeless and welcoming aesthetic. Their graceful fronds soften hard edges and provide a lush, natural touch to outdoor spaces. Hanging Boston Ferns from the ceiling, placing Kimberly Queen Ferns in decorative urns by the front door, or using Macho Ferns to create a tropical oasis on your patio can elevate the beauty of your home instantly. With the right care, these ferns will thrive and keep your porch looking fresh and inviting all season long. Visit us today to pick up the perfect fern for your space and bring a bit of classic Southern charm to your home! Photo courtesy of Southern Living

Protecting Your Garden from Deer: Effective Solutions for a Deer-Free Landscape

Deer are beautiful creatures, but when they start munching on your garden, they can quickly become a nuisance. Particularly in spring and summer, when does are pregnant or nursing, and young deer and bucks are growing, they seek out nutritious, protein-packed plants. Fertilized plants, such as those in home landscapes, offer the perfect blend of protein, carbohydrates, minerals, and salts that deer find irresistible. Additionally, deer often obtain about a third of their water from the moisture found in irrigated plants and tender, young vegetation like expanding leaves, buds, and green stems. The Challenge of Managing Deer in Residential Communities While deer may seem harmless, their appetite for your prized plants and their tendency to damage young trees by rubbing their antlers during the rutting season can make them difficult to control. In residential areas, methods like shooting, noise guns, and fencing can be impractical, expensive, or even illegal. Trapping and relocating deer can also be costly and potentially harmful to the animals. So, what's the solution if you have overabundant deer in your neighborhood, and reducing the herd isn't an option? One effective way to protect your landscape is to choose ornamental plants that deer typically avoid. Deer-Resistant Plants: What Works and What Doesn’t There is no such thing as a completely deer-resistant plant. When deer populations are high, and food sources are scarce, they may nibble on plants they usually avoid. However, certain plants are less appealing to deer, and selecting the right ones can help minimize damage. Deer tend to shy away from plants with strong aromas, prickly leaves, or bitter tastes. For example, plants like lantana, catmint, chives, mint, sage, and thyme are often unappealing to deer due to their potent scents. Additionally, plants with rough or prickly leaves, as well as those with a bitter taste, are usually left alone. Sometimes, deer may nibble on tender new growth but avoid the plant once it matures. Wildlife organizations, universities, and botanical gardens have compiled lists of deer-tolerant and deer-susceptible ornamental plants based on trial-and-error observations. Although these lists are useful, it’s important to note that deer feeding preferences can vary, and what works in one location may not work in another. For a comprehensive list of plants that deer tend to avoid in our area, click here. How Deer Scram Can Help Deer Scram understands the frustration of spending time and money cultivating a beautiful garden only to have it destroyed by hungry deer and rabbits. That’s why they offer a solution that protects your landscape year-round. Deer Scram works by forming a protective odor barrier around your plants. This odor, derived from organic animal by-products, mimics the "smell of death" to deer—making them think that a predator is nearby. While the smell is mild to humans, it’s highly effective at keeping deer and even rabbits away from your prized plants. And the best part? Deer Scram is completely safe for humans and pets, making it a worry-free solution for your garden. Why Choose Deer Scram? Long-Lasting Protection: Deer Scram offers up to 60 days of protection under normal conditions. It works in all seasons, even during rainy periods, making it a reliable solution year-round. Safe and Natural: Deer Scram is made from all-natural, organic components and contains no harmful chemicals. It's safe for children, pets, and the environment. Easy to Apply: Simply sprinkle Deer Scram around the base of your plants or garden beds, and let the product do the work. Reapply every 30-45 days or after heavy rainfall. Effective for Rabbits, Too: Deer Scram is also an excellent deterrent for rabbits, keeping all of your plants safe from foraging critters. With regular application of Deer Scram, you’ll be able to enjoy a lush, green garden free from the damage caused by deer and rabbits. No more worrying about deer nibbling on your flowers, shrubs, or vegetables!

Roasted Butternut Squash: A Simple & Versatile Favorite

When it comes to cozy, delicious side dishes, roasted butternut squash is a must-have on the table. Its natural sweetness, caramelized edges, and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser, whether served alongside a holiday feast or as part of an easy weeknight meal. The beauty of butternut squash? It’s completely customizable! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a classic roasted squash, or you can take it to the next level by pairing it with an array of flavors that complement its rich, slightly nutty taste. Simple Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt and ground black pepper to taste Instructions: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and caramelized. Serve warm and enjoy! Make It Your Own: Flavor Variations Roasted butternut squash is delicious on its own, but if you're in the mood to mix things up, try adding some of these incredible flavor pairings: Savory & Herbaceous Fresh or dried sage, thyme, or rosemary for an earthy touch A sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a salty, umami boost A drizzle of balsamic vinegar to add depth Warm & Sweet A dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy fall-inspired dish A drizzle of maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar for extra caramelization Toss with pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch Bold & Spicy A pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat A sprinkle of curry spices like cumin and coriander for a warm, aromatic twist A dash of ginger for a slightly spicy, zesty kick Zesty & Bright A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest for a burst of freshness Crumbled goat cheese for a creamy contrast Crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory finish Whether you keep it simple or get creative with flavors, roasted butternut squash is the perfect side dish, salad topping, or even a base for soups and grain bowls. What’s your favorite way to enjoy butternut squash? Let us know in the comments below!

Spring Yard Maintenance Checklist

It is that time of year when you should start preparing your lawn and landscape for the upcoming growing season. If you are wanting to get your landscape in shape for the upcoming growing season, there are some areas and services that you should be focusing on before the heat of summer starts to kick in. 1. Clean up and preparations (pruning and shrub bed care) 2. Equipment maintenance 3. Soil amending & mulching 4. Early season fertilizer and pest control 5. Irrigation When Exactly Does Spring Begin? If you are looking at a calendar and you go by the dates, the spring equinox is Thursday March 20th, 2025, at 5:01am. Good luck explaining that to your lawn and landscape! Mother nature does not go by our calendars and could care less about any deadlines and dates. She is going to do whatever she feels like! The spring equinox marks the time when day starts to become even with the night. Our hemisphere begins to see longer days as we get closer to summer. Plants do respond to this shift in daylight hours; however, there are other factors that affect our landscape. Air temperature and soil temperature play a large part in the spring transition. As these temperatures rise, we start to see more activity in growth and nutrient flow in plants. This starts the “wake up” process, which can be like our alarms in the mornings to start our day. Of course, not everyone has an alarm, and we may wake up at different times. There is no universal alarm for everyone, just like in our landscape. Your neighbor’s lawn may green up faster than your lawn, and that is perfectly normal. Moisture availability is also a factor. The saying “April showers bring May flowers” has some validity. Plants do need water to begin movement and cellular processes; however, not all plants need the same amount. Watering alone will not start the green up process in your landscape, and you can even drown your plants if you are not careful. Clean Up and Preparations Starting around late February and early March there are preparations that should start so that your landscape is ready for the upcoming spring growth. The first step is to clean up your lawn and shrub beds. Lawn Scalping During the winter season it is recommended to allow higher-than normal grass coverage. This can help protect root systems during severe cold temperatures. As we get closer to spring and the chances of severe frosts begin to drop, we should start getting the grass closer to proper mowing heights. The process of scalping is especially important for Bermuda and some Zoysia grass types. Scalping helps to remove the dead, unwanted clippings and debris that may build up over the winter. It is extremely important to remove all this debris before the growing season. This should be performed over multiple mowings, and you must bag all your clippings. This helps to set the proper height for mowing during the growing season. A rule of thumb for mowing during the growing season is only cut up to 1/3 of the total leaf. By scalping your lawn early this helps you to start off the season low and slowly. Shrub Pruning and Shrub Bed Clean Up During the winter months, a lot of people leave their shrub beds alone. Bad idea! If you continue to keep your beds cleaned and prepped, this is one less problem to deal with come spring. We strongly recommend bed maintenance services year-round. The beds should also have their edges redefined for a clean crisp edge. You should also be doing bed expansions around trees that are growing outside their tree rings. Pruning and “right sizing” of your shrubs should be done during this time as well. This helps the plants start to fill in and form their shapes during the spring growth spurt. Also, trees should be pruned to help improve air flow, sunlight and clearance for lower ground covers and grass. Equipment Maintenance You need to get your equipment in proper working order to handle the upcoming growing season. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for equipment care and servicing or you can take your equipment to a shop for maintenance as well. You want your equipment in proper working order so that you do not damage plants and turf during the season. Be sure to have sharp blades on your mower and sharp edges on any pruners. It is a good idea to replace the mower blades and keep an extra set handy. Always cut your grass with sharp blades for reduced damage to leaf tissue. Soil Amending and Mulching Prepping our soil for the upcoming growing season is an important step in the spring. Aeration, top dressing and mulching are the primary services we are talking about. You can also start pH adjustments and “soil loading”. Soil loading is when you add specific nutrients based on soil reports. Aeration – this is the process of breaking up soil compaction and thatch layers. It also improves air and water flow while promoting root growth as well. There is mechanical and chemical aeration available, and each one has advantages to consider. Make it stand out Mechanical aeration involves using a machine to poke holes all through the lawn. It can be a messy and time-consuming task. You must be careful of irrigation systems, cables and other hazards that may be buried under your turf. This is the best method when dealing with heavy soil compaction. Bermuda and zoysia lawns can start aeration typically in April, while centipede and St Augustine should wait until May to start. Your lawn will go through a shock and recovery period after this process. Liquid aeration is relatively new to the market. This process uses chemicals and microbes to open the soil to air, water and nutrients. For properties that do not have a lot of soil compaction or heavy thatch build-up, this process could be a better option. Liquid aeration can be applied multiple times throughout a growing season with relative ease. Top dressing is the process of adding a manure organic mix to your lawn and landscape. This product adds readily available nutrients and beneficial microbes to your soil. Over time, if you top dress on a regular basis you can start to see higher organic numbers in your soil report. This is much better than our current sandy soil! If you are going for just the soil amending aspect of top dressing, you can top dress anytime during the growing season. This is a great way to load several different nutrients into the soil all at one time. Top dressing is also great for repairing damaged turf and weak areas. For spot topdressing you will need to make multiple applications throughout the growing season. You should typically add more after each mowing. Mulch and pine straw is an effective way to help prevent weeds and helps to hold moisture in as well. There are lots of different types and styles of mulch available on the market today. Make sure that you have done the bed clean up and pruning first. Since this material can break down in our environment, you may find the need to apply more throughout the year. Mulching can add the extra pop to the appearance of your landscape while providing numerous benefits. Early Season Fertilizer and Pest Control As our lawns and landscapes start to wake up, we need to make sure we have some fertilizer already in the soil available for uptake. Timing this application can be tricky. Bermuda and zoysia lawns can be started in April while centipede and St Augustine should wait until May. We need microbes to transform fertilizer into materials that the plant can use. Soil temperatures need to be 50 degrees and rising for this to start. Shrubs can be fertilized in March due to the breakdown rate of the fertilizer. Generally, in the spring you want higher nitrogen and phosphorus levels in your fertilizer. However, it depends on your soil analysis that you should have performed late fall/early winter last year. Centipede lawns do not require as much nitrogen. A higher iron content is recommended for centipede. Our typical blend for Bermuda and zoysia is a 25-5-11 or 24-0-5. Weed and Feed combination products sound like a great idea. However, if you are using pre-emergent weed control the timing is off. A good weed management program should include 2 rounds of pre-emergent material. Typically, your first treatment should be from January to March, with a follow up round in April to June. You may not need nitrogen fertilizer during these times, and you can potentially over fertilize. Fertilizer should be applied separately from weed management liquids for post emergent control. Liquid weed management sprays should be applied by a trained professional to ensure the proper coverage and rates. April is also when you should start spraying for diseases. A good disease management program should be applied around every 30 to 45 days throughout the growing season for optimum protection. Various diseases become active during different temperature ranges and moisture levels. You can also start insect management sprays as well as growth regulator programs as more of your lawn starts to green up. As your lawn transitions from dormant to active, you may need to provide irrigation if rain fall is not present. Some grass types may respond favorably to watering while some may not. Zoysia can be drowned if overwatered in the spring, while Bermuda will not be bothered at all. Knowing when to start your irrigation system during this time can be confusing to say the least. We typically would recommend that at least 75% of your lawn has greened up and temperatures remain consistently at 70 during the day or 60 at night. In April, you may only need to water twice per week if there is no rainfall. You should be doing an evaluation on your sprinkler system to make sure it is operating correctly and getting proper coverage. Any repairs or adjustments needed should be performed before the heat of summer kicks in. Be sure that your system is programmed correctly and watch for puddling or excessive wet areas for run time adjustments. Gear drives and nozzles wear out overtime and should need replacing. If your system has been off for a while, debris may clog your system during the first few waterings. Start testing the system early before irrigation technicians get booked up during the spring rush! Final Thoughts Hopefully this information has helped you start the spring checklist. It is always helpful to plan and keep up with tasks year-round. We are here to help you! We have many programs available to take the worry and time out of your lawn and landscape needs. Feel free to contact us for more information. Thank You! • Routine maintenance – weekly lawn care and mowing • Details crew – shrub bed maintenance and seasonal plantings • Lawn and shrub care – Chemical, fertilizer and specialty soil amendments • Irrigation repair – evaluations and service • Enhancement – mulch, pruning and basic landscape services Contact our office at (803) 648-3592 or email me at chris.clement@coldcreek.net

Preparing Your Landscape for Winter

Getting your lawn ready and caring for your landscape through the winter season. There are steps you should take to help your lawn survive our winter season here in South Carolina. From fertilizer to weed prevention, the fall transition is still a busy time for your landscape. Once the winter season kicks in to gear, there is still work to be done. For those of you interested in winter rye, you need to be preparing your lawn for the overseeding process now. We will discuss some tips and advice to help you care for your landscape during the colder months. 1. Fertilizer requirements for fall transition 2. Soil testing and analysis 3. Pre-Emergent weed control application process and Poa Annua 4. Irrigation tips 5. Leaves and mowing height 6. Winter schedule for landscape issues 7. Winter rye Fertilizer Depending on your grass type there is still some fertilizer that is needed. Keep in mind that our weather may stay warm longer than normal and this can stretch the fertilizer season. Let’s talk about our program here at Cold Creek and the dates involved with the fertilizer applications. We will use our standard fertilizer blends as examples. Centipede – Spring: late April/early May 14-7-7 blend Summer: July Iron blend Fall: late August/September Potassium St Augustine- Spring: late April/early May 25-5-11 blend Summer: July 25-5-11 blend Late Summer: August Iron blend Fall: September Potassium Bermuda/Zoysia- Spring: late March/early April 25-5-11 blend Late Spring: May 25-5-11 blend Summer: June 25-5-11 blend Summer: July/August 25-5-11 blend Fall: September Potassium There are a lot of different aspects to fertilization, but for our discussion today we will focus on the Fall/Potassium application. We refer to this application as our “winterizer”. Potassium is for helping root strengthening and development. The root systems stay active after the rest of the plant goes dormant and will still take in nutrients. You can even apply potassium up until Christmas. Soil Testing Approximately 30 days after your Potassium application you need to do a soil analysis of your lawn. We include it as part of our standard program here at Cold Creek. This is very similar to having blood work done at your doctor’s office as part of a yearly check-up. There is a lot of useful information that will help you plan for the following growing season. Winter is the perfect time to adjust your soil pH with either lime or sulfur applications. Certain other deficiencies in nutrients can be addressed during the winter months as well. Your soil test results will help determine what fertilizer blends you may need for the next growing season. There are different blends of fertilizer available to help with N-P-K deficiencies and excesses. You can also test for organic matter percentages and check to see if a compost-based application will help. Weed Management Weed management is a year-round activity. Just because it is cold outside, and your lawn is dormant does not mean you can stop with the weed management applications. Our lawn spray program for example- Round 1 Winter Pre and Post Emergent Herbicide Round 2 Early Spring Pre and Post Emergent Herbicide Round 3 Summer Post Emergent Herbicide Round 4 Early Fall Pre and Post Emergent Herbicide Round 5 Early Winter Pre and Post Emergent Herbicide Timing is essential for the performance of a pre-emergent herbicide effectiveness. The pre-emergent barrier can be affected by soil composition and water, so a split application will provide extended protection throughout a season. Use a post emergent herbicide to kill the weeds that break through the barrier. Poa Annua This is Poa. It is the most common winter weed here in the CSRA. It is an extremely tough weed to control. Poa can spread easily by seed and rhizomes underground. It is evil and must be destroyed! It fuels nightmares in weed management technicians everywhere. Some facts about Poa Annua- 1 individual plant can produce over 360 viable seeds in a short time. The seed may lie dormant in the soil for years before germinating. Germinates when soil temperatures drop below 70 degrees. Loves moist, compacted soils. Tolerates shade very well. Has been found to develop resistance to some herbicides. Pre-Emergent herbicide treatment for Poa Annua should start in early Fall with a second application 8 to 10 weeks later for extended control. When the ground temperatures begin to rise back up in spring, there will be a second germination season. Post emergent herbicides must be applied carefully. Irrigation As your lawn transitions into dormancy, less water is required. Sometimes you can even shut it completely off depending on rainfall. Bermuda going dormant. No irrigation is needed during this period. Zoysia will go dormant in patches. No irrigation is needed during this period. Leaves I will be the first one to agree that there is nothing I would rather do than watch some college football on a Saturday and then spend a relaxing Sunday exploring our lovely state parks, maybe even do a little fall fishing! Who wants to spend your weekend raking up leaves? Well….. Not picking up those leaves can do some serious damage. Also, DO NOT MULCH LEAVES!!!Mulching leaves can build up a very thick layer of thatch that can cause many problems during the spring transition. Mow Height You can allow your grass to get a little taller than normal during the fall to add a layer of protection for the winter. Like a warm and toasty blanket for your lawn to curl up in! Not all grasses go completely dormant during the winter in our area. Just because it is winter does not mean you may not have to mow your lawn. Cut your lawn at least once a month during the winter with minimal cuttings. A light trimming to keep the lawn even and cut any weeds that might be popping up. Always bag your clippings during this period. Pay close attention to weeds starting in your shrub beds and kill them as soon as possible. They will spread to your lawn. Fall and Winter Schedule for Your Landscape Consider the following activities for winter landscape needs – 1. Severe pruning: February to June Most broadleaf shrubs Exceptions – Loropetalum and Pittosporum April to June Hydrangeas August Roses January Ornamental Grasses January 2. Regular/Light shrub trimming: Anytime Exceptions - Azaleas Camelias Not between end of August and next bloom 3. Tree Pruning- Affecting less than 20% of canopy: Anytime Affecting more than 20% of canopy: October to March 4. New Plantings - September and October are the best 5. Landscape cleanup - Winter is best 6. Mulching/Pine Straw - After leaf drop season Winter Rye Overseeding with perennial rye will produce a green lawn through the typical dormant season. This process requires multiple steps to prepare your lawn for the application that must be started by September. Generally, the overseeding is done in late September/early October depending on the weather. This service is highly recommended for Bermuda lawns only. There are problems with doing this on your lawn. You should start to kill the rye prior to spring transition for the Bermuda stay healthy. Also, weed problems will persist due to lack of pre-emergent herbicide applications during the winter and spring. You will also have to mow throughout the winter season on a regular basis and fertilization will be periodically needed. It is very nice to have a green lawn when all the others are brown and dead looking; however, it requires a year-round approach to lawn maintenance. Fall and winter have just as much work to do in your landscape as spring and summer. Caring for your lawn is a year- round job! Cold Creek is always ready to help! We offer the following services through our Lawn and Shrub Care Program Lawn Weed and Insect Management Spray Lawn Fertilization Lawn Disease Management Spray Growth Regulator Spray Mole Cricket Management Shrub Disease and Insect Management Spray Shrub Fertilization Core Aeration Soil Testing and Analysis Thank you, Chris Clement chris.clement@coldcreek.net

Savory Stuffed Butternut Squash with Charleston Rice & Sausage

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish that blends the sweetness of butternut squash with the savory flavors of sausage, rice, and fragrant herbs. This stuffed butternut squash recipe is perfect for a cozy meal and can easily be customized to your family’s taste. Ingredients 1 butternut squash, halved and deseeded* Olive oil (seasoned oil recommended)* 2 tbsp maple syrup* 1/2 cup Charleston’s favorite rice* 1/2 lb sausage, browned and crumbled* 1/4 cup dried cranberries, diced* Apple juice (optional, for soaking cranberries) 1 tsp seasoning of choice (purple sage, rosemary, thyme, or herbs de Provence)* Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping) *Ingredients available in our Market! Directions 1. Prepare & Roast the Squash:Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Score the top of the squash about 1/4 inch deep. Drizzle with oil—we recommend using a seasoned oil for added depth of flavor. Place the squash face down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes. 2. Add Maple Syrup & Continue Roasting:Remove the squash from the oven and flip it face up. Drizzle generously with maple syrup, allowing it to pool in the neck of the squash—that’s perfectly fine! Return to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes until fork-tender. 3. Prepare the Filling:While the squash is roasting, cook 1/2 cup of rice according to package instructions. Brown the sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Dice the dried cranberries and add them to the rice mixture—if you prefer extra sweetness, soak them in apple juice beforehand. Stir in your choice of seasoning, blending the flavors together. 4. Scoop & Mix:Once the squash is done roasting, allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle. Use a knife to score around the edges about 1/4 inch in and 1/2 inch deep. Scoop out the flesh with an ice cream scoop, dice it, and mix it into the rice and sausage filling. 5. Fill & Final Bake:Stuff the squash halves with the prepared filling, pressing it in gently. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Return the stuffed squash to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese and warm everything through. 6. Serve & Enjoy!Take the squash out of the oven, and admire your beautiful creation! The combination of sweet, savory, and fragrant herbs makes this a perfect dish for fall or winter. Customization Ideas: This dish is incredibly versatile! Try these variations to suit your preferences: Vegetarian: Swap sausage for mushrooms or Beyond Burger. Mediterranean Twist: Use mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and red onion, and drizzle with balsamic instead of maple syrup. Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes for heat. With endless possibilities, this stuffed butternut squash will become a favorite on your dinner table. Enjoy!

Can a Daily Spoonful of Honey Keep Allergies Away?

Millions of people suffer from seasonal allergies. In the United States alone, approximately one in four adults and one in five children experience these allergies—totaling around 81 million people. Common symptoms include sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and throat, and fatigue. While not scientifically proven, many people believe that consuming honey, particularly local honey, may help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms. Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to specific allergens, most commonly pollen. Trees, grasses, weeds, and mold spores are among the most frequent triggers. When the immune system perceives these allergens as threats, it releases histamine, leading to allergy symptoms. Because honey contains traces of pollen, some believe that consuming small amounts of it can help build immunity over time. This idea is similar to immunotherapy (allergy shots), where small doses of allergens are introduced to the body to gradually reduce sensitivity and prevent allergic reactions. Local honey is thought to be particularly beneficial, as it contains pollen from plants native to the area, potentially helping the body adapt to regional allergens. Although scientific studies have not definitively proven this theory, anecdotal evidence suggests that honey may provide some relief for allergy sufferers. While it may not prevent allergies, honey is known to soothe symptoms such as throat irritation and coughing. Additionally, honey contains antioxidants that support overall health, and purchasing local honey helps sustain beekeepers and local ecosystems. Incorporating honey into your daily routine is simple—you can take a spoonful on its own, stir it into tea, or mix it into yogurt. However, it’s important to choose raw, unfiltered, and locally sourced honey for the best potential benefits. Those with severe allergies should exercise caution, and honey should never be given to children under the age of one. While raw, unfiltered local honey may not be a guaranteed remedy for seasonal allergies, it offers a variety of benefits. At the very least, it can help soothe a sore throat, ease a cough, and add a touch of natural sweetness to your diet. With its potential health advantages and delicious taste, honey is a worthwhile addition to any daily routine.

Roasted Garlic & Spaghetti Squash: A Flavorful Plant-Based Delight

Looking for a satisfying and nourishing meal that’s packed with flavor and texture? This Roasted Garlic & Spaghetti Squash is the perfect dish. Combining roasted garlic’s rich, caramelized notes with the nutty crunch of walnuts, the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, and the earthiness of kale, this recipe is a wholesome, plant-based option you’ll crave. Here’s how you can turn fresh spaghetti squash into a delicious and healthy dinner. Ingredients 1 medium spaghetti squash* 1 small bundle of kale* 2 tablespoons olive oil* 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes 1/3 cup raw walnuts* 1 bulb garlic* Salt to taste* *Fresh ingredients available in our market! Directions Prepare and Roast the Squash and Garlic:Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the flesh with olive oil, season with sea salt, and place it flesh-side down on a baking sheet.Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and place it on the baking sheet alongside the squash. Roast for 45 minutes until tender. Toast the Walnuts:Five minutes before the squash is finished roasting, roughly chop the walnuts and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 3 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Cool and Prep:Once the squash, garlic, and walnuts are done, allow them to cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands from the squash into a large bowl. Peel the roasted garlic cloves, roughly chop them, and add them to the squash. Sauté the Kale and Combine Ingredients:Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped kale, cover, and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, spaghetti squash strands, roasted garlic, and toasted walnuts. Cook while stirring until everything is heated through and well combined. Season and Serve:Add salt to taste and, if desired, drizzle with a couple of tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish. Serve warm and enjoy this vibrant, nutrient-packed dish! Why You’ll Love This Recipe Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious. Bursting with Flavor: The roasted garlic and sun-dried tomatoes bring bold, savory notes, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Versatile and Customizable: Swap kale for spinach or add your favorite roasted veggies for a personalized twist. Stop by our market to grab everything you need to make this cozy, flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this Roasted Garlic & Spaghetti Squash is guaranteed to impress! Have you tried cooking with spaghetti squash before? Share your favorite recipes in the comments below!

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta: A Cozy Comfort Dish

If there’s one dish that screams comfort and flavor, it’s this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta. Combining the nutty sweetness of roasted butternut squash with earthy sage, hearty pasta, and a hint of Parmesan, this dish is the perfect marriage of simplicity and indulgence. It’s a recipe that will warm your heart and your kitchen—ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat. With just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a vibrant and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s versatile! Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option or swap in chicken stock for a richer depth of flavor. Let’s get started! Ingredients 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/4” cubes (about 2 cups)* 1 red onion, roughly chopped* 4 garlic cloves, unpeeled 8 fresh sage leaves, plus extra for garnish* 3 tablespoons olive oil* 12 fl oz chicken or vegetable stock* 1/4 cup Parmesan, finely grated 4 oz baby spinach 1 box of Scratch Pasta Co Semolina Fusilli* *Fresh ingredients available in our market! Directions Roast the Vegetables:Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with foil. Arrange the butternut squash, onion, garlic, and sage leaves on the tray. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 40 minutes, turning halfway, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool for about 15 minutes. Cook the Pasta:While the vegetables cool, cook the fusilli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, keeping it covered to stay warm. Blend the Sauce:Squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins and blend it with half of the roasted vegetables and the stock until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. Combine Everything:Transfer the blended sauce to a large saucepan and stir in the remaining roasted vegetables, Parmesan, and baby spinach. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the spinach wilts. Finish and Serve:Add the cooked fusilli to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and crispy sage leaves for a touch of elegance. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Nutrient-Packed: Butternut squash and spinach are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Rich in Flavor: Roasting the vegetables enhances their sweetness, while sage and garlic bring a savory depth. Simple Yet Elegant: With minimal effort, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results. This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is a dish you’ll find yourself making on repeat—especially when butternut squash is in season. Stop by our market to grab the freshest ingredients and bring this recipe to life in your kitchen! What’s your favorite way to use butternut squash? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos if you make this delicious pasta!

Cozy Up with a Bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

As the days grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a homemade soup. This Vegetarian Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is a hug in a bowl, packed with wholesome veggies and aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even a make-ahead lunch. Plus, with a simple swap, it can easily be made vegan for a fully plant-based meal. The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Flavor This soup gets its creamy, velvety texture from roasted butternut squash, sweet potato, and carrots. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deep, rich flavor. Infused with the earthy notes of thyme, sage, and basil, every spoonful feels like a celebration of fall. Whether you're an experienced cook or just looking for an easy recipe to try, this soup is beginner-friendly and only takes about an hour to make. Let’s dive in! Ingredients 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil 1 Onion, finely chopped 1 Medium Butternut Squash, cubed 1 Sweet Potato, cubed 2 Carrots, cubed 2 Garlic Cloves, peeled 6 Cups Vegetable Broth 1 Teaspoon each of Fresh Thyme, Sage, and Basil (chopped) 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream* Salt and Pepper to Taste *For a vegan option, simply substitute with your favorite plant-based heavy cream! Instructions Roast the Vegetables:Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the onion, cubed vegetables, and garlic cloves onto the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. Roast for 25–35 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and lightly caramelized. Blend to Perfection:Transfer the roasted veggies to a large stockpot and pour in the vegetable broth. Add the chopped fresh thyme, sage, and basil. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches. Warm and Finish:Place the stockpot over medium heat and warm the soup through. Stir in the heavy cream (or plant-based alternative for a vegan option) and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve and Enjoy:Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Why You'll Love This Soup Nutrient-Packed: Full of vitamins and minerals from a medley of hearty vegetables. Customizable: Easily make it vegan by swapping out the heavy cream. Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Warm, nourishing, and effortlessly delicious, this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup will quickly become a staple in your fall recipe lineup. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like you’ve been simmering it all day, but it’s surprisingly quick to prepare. What’s your favorite way to top your squash soup? Let us know in the comments, and enjoy the cozy vibes this dish brings!

Hot Cocoa with a Healthy Kick: The Bone Broth Secret

Hot cocoa is a classic winter treat enjoyed by all ages. Bone broth, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the culinary scene, celebrated for its numerous health benefits. But what if you could combine these two into a deliciously comforting and healthy winter indulgence? Believe it or not, using bone broth instead of traditional milk to make hot chocolate creates a sweet and savory surprise that will delight your taste buds—and your doctor! Best of all, we’ve made it incredibly simple by offering the highest-quality bone broth and hot chocolate in our Market. Why Use Bone Broth for Hot Chocolate? Before we get to the recipe, let’s explore why bone broth is such a beneficial ingredient. At our Market, we carry Remedy Bone Broth from Nashville, known for its organic, high-protein content. Remedy’s "Just Chicken Bone Broth" provides 20 grams of protein per serving and contains only three ingredients: bone broth (made with pasture-raised chicken and Kangen water), organic apple cider vinegar, and sea salt. Bone broth is believed to offer a wide range of health benefits, including: Supporting digestive health Strengthening the immune system Improving joint, bone, and muscle health Enhancing hair, skin, and nails Promoting better sleep Boosting brain function While Remedy’s bone broth is renowned for its flavor, using it to make hot chocolate offers a creative and tasty way to incorporate these health benefits into your daily routine. The Sweet and Savory Combination Combining the rich, indulgent flavor of hot chocolate with the savory depth of bone broth results in a sweet-and-salty treat that is both unexpected and delightful. Prefer your hot chocolate on the sweeter side? You can easily customize the sweetness level by adding honey, maple syrup, stevia, or extra cocoa powder. Plus, the natural gelatin in bone broth lends the hot chocolate a velvety smooth texture you’re sure to love. Choosing the Right Hot Chocolate Not all hot chocolate is created equal, which is why we proudly carry Harth Hot Chocolate. Harth is a thick, Swiss-style hot chocolate made from organic, unalkalized cocoa powder. It’s rich, decadent, and even vegan-friendly. Simple Recipe: Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Here’s how to make this comforting winter beverage: Bring 1 cup of Remedy Bone Broth to a simmer in a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons of Harth Hot Chocolate powder and whisk until fully combined. Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and enjoy! Optional Toppings: Marshmallows Shaved dark chocolate Whipped cream Harth Hot Chocolate and Remedy Just Chicken Bone Broth with a beautiful mug available in the Market at Cold Creek Nurseries

The Cold Creek Nurseries Five Bag Program: Your DIY Guide to the Perfect Lawn

A lush, green lawn is the hallmark of a beautiful home, and with Cold Creek Nurseries’ Five Bag Program, achieving it has never been easier. This program is specifically designed for DIY landscapers who want to save money while ensuring their lawn is the envy of the neighborhood. When paired with proper irrigation, we guarantee outstanding results! We offer two tailored programs to suit different grass types: one for Centipede lawns and another for St. Augustine, Zoysia, and Bermuda lawns. Let’s break down each program: Five Bag Program for Centipede Lawns 1. Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental When to Apply: Mid-January to FebruaryKickstart your lawn’s year with the right foundation. This application provides superior control of crabgrass and other annual grass and broadleaf weeds, giving your lawn a clean slate to grow healthy and strong. 2. Ferti-lome Centipede Weed & Feed When to Apply: Mid-April to Early JuneThis step controls over 200 broadleaf weeds that can invade your lawn while delivering essential nutrients like Nitrogen and Iron. The post-emergent weed control ensures your lawn stays pristine as it enters the growing season. 3. Ferti-lome Centipede Lawn Fertilizer When to Apply: June to SeptemberKeep your lawn thriving through the summer with this fertilizer, which contains slow-release Nitrogen for long-lasting results. Its high Iron content and trace elements work together to produce a vibrant, super-green lawn that stands out. 4. Ferti-lome Winterizer When to Apply: Mid-SeptemberAs the season changes, this is the most critical application of the year. Winterizer aids root growth and strengthens stems, preparing your lawn to endure the colder months while laying the groundwork for a strong start in the spring. 5. Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental When to Apply: Mid-September to Mid-OctoberFinish the year with a second application of Turf & Ornamental. This step is crucial for preventing Poa Annua and other winter weeds, ensuring your lawn remains healthy and weed-free as it rests through the winter. Five Bag Program for St. Augustine, Zoysia, & Bermuda Lawns 1. Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental When to Apply: Mid-January to FebruaryStart your lawn off the right way with superior control of crabgrass and other annual grass and broadleaf weeds. This sets the stage for a healthy lawn throughout the year. 2. Ferti-lome Weed Out When to Apply: AprilWhen dandelions are actively growing and temperatures reach the mid-60s or higher, this application provides a full feeding while controlling 33 different weeds to keep your lawn looking its best. 3. Ferti-lome Lawn Food Plus Iron When to Apply: JuneAchieve tremendous results with this fertilizer that delivers deep root feeding and promotes a healthy green color. It contains two forms of high Nitrogen plus Iron for maximum effectiveness. 4. Ferti-lome Winterizer When to Apply: Mid-SeptemberThis critical application strengthens roots and stems during the colder months, preparing your lawn to emerge stronger in the spring. 5. Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental When to Apply: Mid-September to Mid-OctoberThe second application of Turf & Ornamental ensures effective prevention of Poa Annua and other winter weeds, keeping your lawn pristine through the winter months. Why Choose the Five Bag Program? By investing a little time throughout the year, you’ll save money on expensive lawn services while gaining the satisfaction of caring for your yard yourself. These tailored programs take the guesswork out of lawn care, helping you achieve professional-quality results with minimal effort. Visit Cold Creek Nurseries today to pick up everything you need for the Five Bag Program. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer any questions and ensure you’re set up for success. With the right tools and timing, you’ll have the best-looking lawn in the neighborhood! Let’s grow together!

Caring for Holiday Plants: Keep the Magic Alive All Season Long

The holiday season brings joy, twinkling lights, and an array of beautiful plants that brighten our homes. To keep your holiday greenery looking fresh and festive, follow these care tips for fresh-cut wreaths and garland, cyclamen, poinsettias, and Norfolk pines. Fresh-Cut Wreaths and Garland Fresh greenery adds timeless charm to your holiday decor, but without proper care, it can dry out quickly. To keep your wreaths and garlands lush and beautiful: Hydrate: Before hanging your greenery, soak it in cool water for a few hours to allow it to absorb moisture. Location Matters: Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like vents and fireplaces. Preserve with Wilt Stop: Give your greenery a good spray with Wilt Stop, available in our store. This product helps seal in moisture and prevents drying, keeping your greens fresher for longer. Water Regularly: An alternative to Wilt Stop, you can take your wreaths and garland down every few days and lay them on the ground. Spray them thoroughly with water and let them dry before hanging up again. Cyclamen Indoor Care Cyclamen’s vibrant blooms and heart-shaped leaves are a holiday favorite. Here’s how to keep them thriving indoors: Light: Place in bright, indirect sunlight. A north or east-facing window works best. Temperature: Cyclamen prefer cooler temperatures around 60-70°F. Keep them away from drafts or heating vents. Watering: While blooming, keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. The best way to water is from the bottom, if possible. When cyclamen stop blooming and temperatures get warm, they will go into dormancy. When the plant is dormant, let the soil dry out between waterings. When you see green leaf tips showing in the fall, start watering normally and fertilizing again to fuel new growth. Maintenance: Use a low nitrogen liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength during growing and blooming time (September-April) and skit the fertilizer while dormant (summer.) Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new blooms. Poinsettia Care Poinsettias are a classic symbol of the holidays. Keep them vibrant and colorful with these tips: Light: Place in a well-lit area that receives at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. Avoid direct sunlight as this may fade the bracts. Temperature: Keep them in a space between 68-70°F. Avoid drafts, cold windows, and direct heat sources. The rule of thumb is if you are comfortable, so is your poinsettia. Watering: Check the soil regularly and water when it feels dry to the touch. Fill the plant to the top with water, and allow it to soak into the soil. Repeat until water begins to seep out of the drainage holes. This shows the soil is set to the bottom. Always remove plants from any decorative containers before watering and let them dry completely. Ensure good drainage—poinsettias dislike soggy roots. Norfolk Pine Care This miniature Christmas tree is a long-lasting addition to your holiday decor—and beyond! Although it is called a Norfolk Pine, it is not a pine at all. Rather, this tree is a tropical plant native to the South Pacific. They can grow 7 feet tall or more while indoors! Here’s how to keep it healthy: Light: Norfolk pines love bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch their needles. Watering: Water when 25% of the soil is dry. Water until liquid flows through the drainage holes at the bottom and discard any water that accumulates in the saucer. If the plant is too dry, the branches will turn brown and crispy. Humidity: These tropical trees prefer higher humidity levels. Mist the tree occasionally or place a humidifier nearby. Fertilizer: Feed your Norfolk Pine once a month during spring and summer with a general all purpose fertilizer diluted to half strength. Decorating Tip: If decorating your Norfolk pine, use lightweight ornaments to avoid bending its delicate branches. With a little care, your holiday plants will bring festive cheer to your home all season long. Stop by our store for Wilt Stop, gardening advice, and everything you need to keep your greenery merry and bright! Live Wreath Cylcamen Poinsettias

Avoid Unwanted Guests: How to Treat Outdoor Plants Before Moving Them Inside

As nighttime temperatures start dipping into the 40s, it’s a signal that any plants you’ve enjoyed outdoors this summer need to come indoors for the fall and winter. But before making that transition, it’s crucial to give them some TLC to ensure they’re pest-free. Spending months outside can expose plants to a variety of pests, both on the leaves and in the soil. Taking steps to treat your plants now will protect your home from potential pest invasions—and keep your other indoor plants safe from becoming the next host. Step 1: Inspect for Pests Start by giving each plant a close inspection. Look for any visible signs of insects on the leaves, stems, and soil surface. Pay special attention to the undersides of leaves, as pests often hide there. Step 2: Treat the Leaves and Soil To thoroughly clean and treat the plant, spray the foliage with an insecticidal soap or one of our recommended products below. Make sure to cover both the top and underside of the leaves, as pests and their eggs can hide in these hard-to-spot areas. Don’t forget to treat the soil, as some pests can lay eggs there and make it their winter home! Here are three products we recommend for safe and effective pest control: All Seasons Horticultural Spray Oil – This oil is a top choice for organic gardening and provides season-round control of overwintering eggs and pests. Use it as a spray on leaves or dormant branches to control red spiders, aphids, whitefly, mealy bugs, and more. It’s safe for use on fruit trees, shade trees, ornamentals, roses, and vegetables. Fertilome Triple Action Plus – Known for its versatility, this product kills insect eggs, larvae, and adults, targeting pests like whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, and scale. It’s effective on a wide range of pests, including beetles, tent caterpillars, squash bugs, and many more. A great choice for comprehensive insect control. Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew – Approved for organic gardening, this brew contains Spinosad® and kills a variety of insect pests on listed vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. It’s effective against bagworms, caterpillars, leaf miners, and thrips, providing strong pest control without harsh chemicals. Step 3: Monitor and Isolate Once your plants are treated, bring them inside, but keep them separated from other indoor plants for a few weeks to ensure no pests survived. Continue to monitor them for any new signs of pests. By taking the time to treat your plants before bringing them indoors, you’re not only protecting your home from unwanted pests but also safeguarding your other indoor plants. This simple preparation helps create a healthy indoor environment, keeping both your plants and your space pest-free.

Restoring Your Landscape After Hurricane Helene: We're Here to Help

Hurricane Helene came through our area like a tornado, uprooting not only trees but our lives as well. Our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by the storm. Seeing our community come together to support one another in the aftermath has been truly heartwarming, and we hope everyone stays safe and has their power restored soon so we can all begin to move forward. As we begin the cleanup process, many of our yards are filled with downed trees and damaged shrubs. While some plants may be beyond saving, there’s hope for others, and we’re here to help guide you through the recovery. Even trees and shrubs that didn’t fall over could still be at risk of long-term damage. Here’s what to look for when inspecting your landscape. 1. Check the Roots - Look for Uplifted or Exposed Roots: Even if a tree didn’t fall, strong winds may have partially uprooted it, which can cause instability. - Soil Cracks: Cracks in the soil around the base of the tree may indicate that the roots have shifted. - Lean: If the tree is leaning slightly, it might have suffered damage to its root system and could eventually fall. 2. Inspect the Trunk - Cracks and Splits: Check for vertical cracks or splits in the trunk, which can weaken the tree’s structure. - Wounds: Look for areas where bark has been stripped away, as this can make the tree more susceptible to disease and pests. - Hollow Sounds: Tap the trunk lightly; a hollow sound may indicate internal damage or decay that has been exacerbated by the storm. 3. Examine Branches - Broken or Hanging Limbs: Look for branches that are cracked, broken, or hanging loosely. These pose a risk of falling later and should be pruned immediately. - Dead or Stripped Leaves: If branches have lost a lot of leaves or they appear discolored, the branch may be stressed or damaged. - Check for Splits Where Branches Join the Trunk: These weak spots may be difficult to see but can cause branches to snap off under stress. 4. Assess Foliage - Defoliation: Heavy winds can strip trees of leaves. While this may not be immediately life-threatening, it can stress the plant. 5. Shrubs - Leaning or Uprooted: Smaller shrubs may not fall over completely, but if they’ve shifted in the soil or have exposed roots, they may need to be replanted or staked. - Broken Stems: Like trees, shrubs can suffer from broken or split branches. Prune these areas to prevent disease. - Wilted or Brown Leaves: Wilted foliage may indicate root damage, especially if the roots were waterlogged or partially torn. 6. Structural Integrity - Support Stakes: If trees were previously staked, check if the stakes are still providing support or if they’ve been loosened or damaged. - Trunk Scarring: Look for abrasions caused by flying debris, which can open the tree up to disease. What to Address: - Immediate Pruning: Remove any broken, hanging, or dead branches to prevent further damage or injury. - Re-stake or Replant Leaning Trees/Shrubs: For trees that have shifted, proper staking may help stabilize them until the roots can re-establish. - Root and Soil Care: Water deeply and mulch around the base to encourage root recovery, especially if the roots were disturbed or exposed. - Watch for Pests and Disease: Storm-damaged trees are more susceptible to pests and fungal infections, so monitor them closely in the coming weeks. By addressing these issues, you can improve the chances of your trees and shrubs recovering fully after the storm. Helping Your Landscape Recover with Care For trees and shrubs that have shifted but remain standing, it’s important to give them the support they need before winter arrives. Applying a high-potassium, low-nitrogen fertilizer will help strengthen their root systems. Our "I Can’t Believe It’s Chicken Manure" compost is perfect for this, acting as both a top dressing and mulch as your plants prepare for the dormant season. If you’re unsure about your landscape, we’re here for you. Feel free to email Chris Clement at chris.clement@coldcreek.net for personalized advice. Photos are always helpful, and you’re welcome to visit our store to speak with one of our team members in person. Professional Help Available If your yard needs more than just advice, we’re ready to step in. To assist with the extensive cleanup after Helene, we’ve expanded our team and fleet for timely tree removal and yard cleanup services. With a 24-hour response time, we’re committed to getting your landscape back on track as quickly as possible. To schedule a cleanup or tree removal, email Chris Clement at chris.clement@coldcreek.net with your name, address, phone number, and details of whether you need tree removal, yard cleanup, or both. We're In This Together As we look around at the damage left behind, it’s clear that our community has been through a lot. But it’s also clear that we’re resilient and capable of overcoming these challenges together. We may have lost trees, but we haven’t lost hope. And just as we’ve come together to help one another through the storm, we’ll continue to work together to rebuild and restore our beautiful landscape. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will heal and grow stronger.

Managing Poa Annua: The Winter Weed That Won’t Quit

When it comes to maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn, one of the toughest challenges is controlling Poa Annua, a persistent winter weed that can invade even the most well-cared-for landscapes. Poa Annua, also known as annual bluegrass, is notorious for being incredibly hard to manage due to its rapid spread and resistance to common herbicides. Why is Poa Annua Such a Problem? Poa Annua thrives in cool, wet conditions, which makes it a prime offender in the fall and winter months. It loves compacted, moist areas and produces a staggering number of seeds—up to 2,000 in a season. These seeds can stay dormant for years, waiting for the right conditions to germinate. Even worse, they can be carried by water, animals, birds, and lawn equipment, making it difficult to control. What makes this weed particularly frustrating is its ability to develop resistance to herbicides. There have even been cases where Poa Annua has shown resistance to glyphosate-based products, making it one of the most dreaded winter weeds for lawn care enthusiasts and professionals alike. Key to Control: Timing and Pre-Emergent Herbicides Preventing Poa Annua from establishing is critical, and timing is everything. Pre-emergent herbicides, applied during the fall and winter, are your first line of defense against this pesky weed. If applied correctly, these herbicides prevent Poa Annua seeds from germinating. Because Poa Annua seeds begin to sprout when soil temperatures dip below 70 degrees, it’s crucial to act before these temperatures hit. Rainfall and irrigation can wash away pre-emergent herbicides, so it's also important to monitor moisture levels closely, especially during the transition between fall and winter. Irrigation and Mowing: Keeping Poa Annua at Bay One of the key strategies for Poa Annua control is to limit irrigation during the fall and winter, particularly if your lawn is mostly dormant. Too much moisture creates an ideal environment for Poa seeds to germinate. Reducing irrigation can significantly slow the spread of this weed. Another often overlooked strategy is winter mowing. While you might be tempted to scale back lawn care during the colder months, keeping Poa Annua cut short is important. Mowing prevents the formation of seed heads, reducing its ability to spread. Be sure to bag and remove clippings to further minimize seed dispersal. And don’t forget about your shrub beds—Poa Annua can easily take root there and spread into your lawn. Post-Emergent Control Even with the best prevention methods, Poa Annua outbreaks are inevitable. Once it has established itself in your lawn, post-emergent herbicides are necessary to combat it. However, complete eradication may require multiple applications. Combining chemical control with proper lawn care practices is key to long-term management. Together, We Can Manage Poa Annua At Cold Creek Nurseries, we believe that successful Poa Annua control is a team effort. By understanding the life cycle of this persistent weed and implementing timely, proactive measures, you can significantly reduce its impact on your lawn. From pre-emergent applications to mindful irrigation and mowing practices, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Your landscape is an investment, and together we can ensure it stays beautiful and healthy, even in the face of tough weeds like Poa Annua! Poa Annua Easily spotted in winter months

Guide to Fertilizing Shrubs in the Fall: Expert Tips for Success

As the fall season approaches, it's the perfect time to ensure your shrubs are prepared to thrive through winter and into the next growing season. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we understand how vital proper care is for the health and longevity of your landscape. Fertilizing your shrubs in the fall, with the right blend and techniques, can make all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know about how we approach fall shrub fertilization and how you can apply these principles to your own garden. Why Fall Fertilization Matters During fall, your shrubs are entering a period of dormancy, but their root systems are still actively growing. Applying a fertilizer that’s rich in phosphorus and potassium helps your plants develop strong root systems and enhances their winter hardiness. The focus on these nutrients is crucial to equipping your shrubs with what they need to survive the cold and be ready to flourish when spring arrives. Understanding Shrub Root Systems Many homeowners wonder where the fertilizer should be applied, as it’s common to assume that it should go directly around the base of the plant. However, understanding how a shrub's root structure works is key to a successful fertilization. The roots of most shrubs extend well beyond the trunk, spreading outward and downward. The farthest reach of the branches and leaves, known as the "drip line," is a good indicator of where the most active feeder roots will be. Even if you regularly prune your shrubs, the root systems continue to grow outward, spreading across your garden beds. The Right Fertilization Technique When applying fertilizer, it’s important to place it where the feeder roots are located—around the drip line of the shrub. This ensures that the nutrients are absorbed efficiently by the plant. Fertilizer should never be placed directly near the base or trunk flare of the shrub, as there are no feeder roots in this area. Fertilizer placed too close to the base will be wasted and won’t benefit your plants. Our experts at Cold Creek Nurseries will be applying a specialized dry granular fertilizer blend throughout your landscape. This blend is formulated to strengthen root growth and protect your shrubs against the harsh winter elements. You’ll notice the granules scattered across the ground, especially around the areas where your shrub's root systems spread. What to Expect During Fertilization Fertilizing your shrubs doesn’t take long, and our experienced technicians can complete the task swiftly and efficiently. As we move through your landscape, we apply fertilizer by hand or using hand spreaders. Although the process may appear fast and chaotic, rest assured that each application is precise, targeting the areas that will provide the most benefit to your shrubs. If you have mulch or pine straw covering your beds, the fertilizer may settle beneath these materials. While you might not see all the granules after application, they are still working their way into the soil where the roots can access them. Trust the Experts At Cold Creek Nurseries, we believe that your success is our success. With years of experience in plant care, we’re here to ensure your landscape not only survives but thrives through every season. If you have any questions about shrub care or fertilization, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of knowledgeable professionals is always available to guide you through the process and offer the support you need. Prepare your shrubs for the coming winter by ensuring they get the right nutrients now. With proper fall fertilization, your shrubs will be primed for healthy, vigorous growth come spring. We’re committed to helping you achieve a landscape that’s as beautiful as it is resilient.

Summer May Be Ending, But Your Garden’s Beauty Doesn’t Have To!

As summer fades, many gardeners start to pack away their tools, thinking the time for stunning blooms is over. But if you’re in zone 8A, that couldn’t be further from the truth! Fall offers a whole new season of show-stopping plants that will keep your garden vibrant and colorful. From flowering perennials to bold grasses and even trees, here are some fantastic options to make your garden shine through the autumn months. Mums: The Fall Classic Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the quintessential fall bloomers. With their vibrant colors ranging from sunny yellows to deep purples and fiery oranges, they bring warmth and cheer to any garden. Mums are hardy, easy to care for, and perfect for containers or as border plants. Marigolds: Fall Colors with Deer Resistance Marigolds are a fall garden favorite for more than just their vibrant gold, orange, and red hues that echo the colors of autumn. These hardy annuals are known for being deer-resistant, making them an excellent choice for gardeners dealing with wildlife. Marigolds can be planted in beds or containers, and their long-lasting blooms will bring warmth and cheer to your outdoor space well into the fall season. Asters: Pollinator Magnets Asters are another fall favorite, with their daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. These late-season bloomers are not only beautiful, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, giving your garden life well into the cooler months. Camellia Sasanqua: Fall Elegance For something more refined, look no further than Camellia sasanqua. Blooming in shades of white, pink, and red, this shrub brings a touch of elegance to your garden. Its glossy evergreen leaves provide year-round interest, and its delicate fall blooms offer an unexpected pop of color. Goldenrod & Swamp Sunflower: Bold and Bright Goldenrod (Solidago) and Swamp Sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius) are bold yellow bloomers that thrive in the fall. Goldenrod’s tall, arching stems are perfect for filling in the back of garden beds, while the Swamp Sunflower's bright, daisy-like flowers bring warmth and height to your landscape. Both are tough, native plants that are a boon for pollinators. Blanketflower & Rudbeckia: Summer into Fall If you love the bold hues of summer, Blanketflower (Gaillardia) and Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan) will extend that sunny, warm palette right into the fall. Both offer golden yellow and orange tones that pair beautifully with ornamental grasses and other fall blooms. Plus, they’re drought-tolerant and tough enough to handle the heat! Joe Pye Weed: Natural Beauty For a more natural, wild look, consider Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium). Its large, dusky pink clusters of flowers stand tall and command attention, especially in pollinator-friendly gardens. This native perennial adds a wild beauty to your fall landscape, with flowers that last well into the season. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’: A Reliable Stunner Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ is aptly named for its ability to provide color in the garden when most other flowers have faded. Its clusters of pink flowers deepen to a rich russet as fall progresses, offering long-lasting color and structure to your garden beds. Heliopsis & Heliotrope: Bright and Sun-Loving Heliopsis, or False Sunflower, blooms in a brilliant yellow that brightens up any fall garden. Its long-lasting blooms and sturdy stems make it a standout in borders or mixed perennial gardens. Japanese Maples: Fiery Fall Foliage If you want to take your fall garden to the next level, Japanese Maples are the way to go. Their striking red, orange, or yellow foliage provides an unbeatable show as the temperatures drop. Whether used as a focal point or tucked into a mixed border, these small trees bring unmatched autumn beauty. Viburnum & Virginia Sweetspire: Shrubs with Fall Flair Viburnums offer not just spring blooms, but also stunning fall foliage in shades of red and purple, along with berries that feed wildlife. Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) is another shrub that shines in fall, with cascading white blooms in summer followed by vibrant red and orange leaves in autumn. Muhly Grass: Wispy, Elegant Drama Ornamental grasses add texture and movement to fall gardens, and none is more dramatic than Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris). Its airy pink plumes catch the sunlight and create a soft, billowing effect that lasts well into late fall. Plant it in masses for the most dramatic effect, or as a single specimen for a more subtle touch. Plan Your Fall Garden for Continuous Beauty As the temperatures cool and summer blooms fade, remember that your garden’s beauty doesn’t have to. By choosing the right plants—like mums, asters, camellias, and native beauties like goldenrod and swamp sunflower—you can extend the color and interest in your garden well into fall. From trees and shrubs to perennials and ornamental grasses, there’s no shortage of options to make your garden a year-round showcase. So don’t hang up those gardening gloves just yet. Fall is full of potential for stunning, long-lasting blooms, and your garden can stay vibrant and beautiful until the first frost—and beyond! Blanket Flower

Welcome Fall, College Football, and Perfect Planting Weather!

Fall is finally here, and you know what that means—college football season is back! There’s something magical about crisp Saturdays spent cheering on your favorite team, flipping burgers on the grill, and relaxing with family and friends. Here in the South, fall weekends mean gathering outdoors, whether it’s tailgating at the game or enjoying the backyard with loved ones. And while football might steal the show, this season also offers the perfect opportunity to spruce up your landscape and get your garden ready for the coming year. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to plant, fall is your golden season, especially for us lucky ones here in zone 8A. With cooler temperatures, but not too cold, fall offers the ideal window to get new plants in the ground before the first frost hits. It’s also a great time for establishing trees, shrubs, and perennials—allowing them to develop strong root systems without the stress of summer’s heat. So, between touchdowns and BBQs, why not spend a little time giving your yard some love? Whether you're adding some new flowering shrubs or giving your lawn that extra care it needs, the fall season lets you enjoy outdoor activities while getting a jump start on next year’s garden. With mild Southern weather, there’s plenty of time to plant and prepare your landscape before winter comes knocking. And of course, once the yard work is done, there’s nothing better than kicking back and watching the game with a cold drink in hand, admiring all the work you've put into your landscape. Football, friends, family, and fresh new plants—fall really is the best season of the year! Get outside, enjoy the season, and make the most of this time to update your yard. After all, fall isn’t just for football; it’s for planting too!

Flavors of Fall: Butternut and Spaghetti Squash

As September arrives, the crisp air and vibrant hues of fall are just around the corner. With the changing season comes a bounty of delicious flavors that we all look forward to. Among the seasonal stars are two of our favorites: butternut squash and spaghetti squash. Both are versatile, delicious, and perfect for creating comforting dishes as the weather cools down. Let’s explore three different ways to prepare each of these squashes to bring the warmth and flavor of fall to your table. Butternut Squash: Sweet, Nutty, and Velvety Butternut squash is a fall staple, known for its creamy texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Here are three ways to enjoy this delicious squash: Roasted Butternut Squash - Roasting butternut squash is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy its natural sweetness. Simply peel, seed, and cube the squash, then toss it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like rosemary or thyme. Roast it in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. The result? Beautifully caramelized cubes that are slightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect as a side dish or tossed into a salad. Butternut Squash Soup - For a warm and comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot, then add peeled and cubed squash, broth, and your favorite fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Simmer until the squash is tender, then blend until smooth. This soup is creamy, rich, and full of autumnal flavors—ideal for a cozy evening at home. Mashed Butternut Squash - Looking for a delicious alternative to mashed potatoes? Try mashed butternut squash! Boil or steam peeled and cubed squash until tender, then mash it with butter, a bit of cream or milk, salt, and pepper. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a sweet twist. The result is a velvety, smooth side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or fall vegetables. Spaghetti Squash: Light, Versatile, and Fun Spaghetti squash is a wonderful, low-carb alternative to pasta, with its unique stringy texture that resembles spaghetti when cooked. Here are three different ways to prepare it: Roasted Spaghetti Squash - Roasting is the most popular method for cooking spaghetti squash. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the inside with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. You’ll get tender, slightly caramelized strands that can be topped with your favorite pasta sauce or simply tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Microwaved Spaghetti Squash - Short on time? The microwave is a quick and easy way to cook spaghetti squash. Pierce the squash all over with a fork, microwave it for 5-8 minutes to soften, then cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of water, and microwave for another 8-10 minutes until tender. Use a fork to shred the flesh into strands, and you have a fast, healthy meal base ready to go! Spaghetti Squash Stir-Fry - Give your spaghetti squash a flavorful twist with a stir-fry! After roasting or microwaving the squash, scrape out the strands and set them aside. In a skillet, heat some oil and stir-fry garlic, ginger, and your choice of vegetables (like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli). Add the spaghetti squash strands and a stir-fry sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes. Toss to combine for a tasty, veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for a light, nutritious meal. Celebrate Fall with Squash As we transition into fall, there’s no better time to embrace the comforting flavors of the season. Butternut and spaghetti squash are two versatile and delicious options that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from simple roasts to hearty soups and creative stir-fries. Head to our Market and pick up these seasonal favorites to start creating your own fall-inspired dishes at home. Happy cooking!

Managing Armyworms: A Balanced Approach to Lawn Care and Pest Control

Armyworms are making their presence known this season, and it's likely we'll see multiple cycles of these pests before the year is out. While the sight of your lawn stripped bare by thousands of these invaders can be alarming, it's important to remember that they do not kill your grass. Though they may scalp your lawn, leaving it looking worse for wear, your grass will recover with the right care. How To Identify Army Worms Armyworms are easily recognized by their green, brown, or black coloring, with distinctive white or yellow stripes along their sides. As they mature, they develop an inverted Y-shaped marking on their heads, making them even easier to identify. These pests can grow up to 1.5 inches long and tend to feed in large groups, which is how they earned their name. They are most active during the late evening and early morning, making them harder to spot during the day. You'll likely notice their activity ramping up in the late summer and early fall. The Life Cycle of Army Worms Understanding the life cycle of the fall armyworm is key to managing its impact on your lawn. These pests are particularly tenacious, laying eggs in hard-to-reach places like nearby woods, under the eaves of gutters, and other areas we don’t typically spray. They can travel vast distances in a single night, with heavy rains helping to carry them even further. The fall armyworm progresses through four main stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult moth. Female moths lay clusters of 100-200 small, white eggs on the undersides of leaves, grass blades, or other surfaces, which hatch within 2-3 days depending on temperature and humidity. The larval stage, lasting about 14-21 days, is the most destructive phase, as the caterpillars consume large amounts of vegetation, often stripping leaves down to the stems. Large infestations can devastate a lawn in just a few days. After this, the caterpillars burrow into the soil to pupate, forming a cocoon where they undergo transformation into adult moths over 7-10 days. Once they emerge, adult moths mate and lay eggs, continuing the cycle. While armyworms can leave your lawn looking worse for wear, it’s important to remember that your grass will recover with the right care. This situation raises an important discussion about pest management. It's crucial to understand that we can not completely control Mother Nature. Throughout history, humanity has tried—and often failed—to tame the forces of nature, no matter how much effort or resources we invest. While we can't completely control nature, we can manage its impact. For example, even if we pave a parking lot to control weeds, they will still find a way to pop up in cracks. Similarly, while we can reduce the number of armyworms in your lawn, we cannot guarantee complete control. To truly control armyworms, you would need a service stationed at your lawn at all times throughout their entire lifecycle—a solution that would be prohibitively expensive and environmentally unsustainable. Our approach is based on regular visits every 6 to 10 weeks, and we apply insecticides responsibly, considering environmental concerns. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we believe in being good stewards of the environment, ensuring that our practices benefit everyone. The Impact of Storms and Hurricanes Storms and hurricanes can significantly contribute to the spread and intensity of armyworm infestations. Strong winds, particularly during hurricanes, can carry armyworms like the Fall Armyworm over long distances, introducing these pests to new regions that were previously unaffected. The heavy rains accompanying storms also create the perfect environment for armyworms to thrive, as wet and humid conditions are ideal for egg hatching and larval development, which can lead to an outbreak. Additionally, turf that has been stressed or damaged by storms is more susceptible to infestations. The flooding, debris, and other storm-related damage weaken the grass, making it easier for armyworms to establish themselves and cause further harm. What to Look For Armyworms can inflict severe damage to your turf in a short period, so it's crucial to recognize the symptoms early. One of the most noticeable signs is the appearance of irregular brown patches in your lawn, caused by larvae feeding on the grass blades and leaving behind chewed-up, brown areas. As the feeding continues, these affected areas may thin out, giving your lawn a patchy look, and in severe cases, the turf may appear scalped. The rapid pace at which armyworms can destroy a lawn is alarming; a healthy patch of turf can be reduced to bare soil within just a few days during a large infestation. Additionally, an unusual increase in bird activity on your lawn could indicate the presence of armyworms, as birds often feed on these pests. In some instances, you may even spot the worms themselves crawling on the turf, particularly during the early morning or late evening when they are most active. Cold Creek Nurseries Can Help Our service focuses on managing the damage and impact of armyworms once they are identified as a problem. We can spray for them and implement a recovery plan to help your lawn bounce back. We deeply appreciate your business and the opportunity to support our employees and their families. We are committed to providing the best possible service, continually learning and training to improve our approach. However, even with the best intentions, we cannot control nature entirely. Success in managing your property requires collaboration between us and you, our valued customer.

What Do Oceanic Plankton and Indoor Plants Have in Common? | Oxygen-Producing Houseplants

What Do Oceanic Plankton and Indoor Plants Have in Common? How Oxygen-Producing Houseplants Improve Indoor Air Quality When we think about oxygen, lush forests often come to mind—but some of the greatest oxygen producers on Earth live beneath the ocean’s surface. In fact, the ocean generates nearly 50% of the planet’s oxygen, thanks largely to microscopic organisms called oceanic plankton. While plankton may be the unsung heroes of oxygen production, most of us aren’t eager to bring algae into our living rooms. Thankfully, oxygen-producing houseplants offer a beautiful and practical way to improve indoor air quality while adding life and warmth to our homes. Best Oxygen-Producing Houseplants for Better Indoor Air Quality Indoor plants don’t just enhance your décor—they help filter pollutants, increase oxygen levels, and create healthier living spaces. Below are some of the best houseplants for oxygen production and air purification, along with where they work best in your home. Pothos – One of the Easiest Oxygen-Producing Houseplants Pothos are among the most popular and low-maintenance houseplants available. Known for their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos help improve air quality by reducing pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde. They also absorb carbon dioxide efficiently, making them a great choice for almost any room. Some experts even suggest pothos may help promote better sleep when placed in a bedroom. Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue) – A Powerful Air-Purifying Plant Snake plants are well known for their ability to filter indoor air. According to NASA studies, they remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, nitrogen oxide, and trichloroethylene. Snake plants are excellent oxygen producers during the day and thrive in low-light conditions, making them ideal for offices, living rooms, and entryways. Aloe Vera – An Oxygen-Producing Plant Perfect for Bedrooms Aloe vera is both functional and beautiful. In addition to its soothing gel, aloe vera helps clean the air by removing toxins like benzene and aldehydes. Unlike many plants, aloe produces oxygen at night, making it a great option for bedrooms and sleeping spaces. Gerbera Daisy (Transvaal Daisy) – A Colorful Oxygen Booster If you’re looking to add a pop of color, Gerbera Daisies are a standout choice. These vibrant flowering plants absorb carbon dioxide at night and remove toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Placed on a nightstand or dresser, they can help improve air quality while brightening your space. Peace Lily – A Beautiful, Low-Maintenance Air Purifier Peace Lilies are beloved for their elegant white blooms and easy care. They help purify indoor air by filtering out pollutants like benzene and trichloroethylene. Peace Lilies also tolerate lower light conditions and are often associated with positive energy, making them a popular choice for bedrooms, offices, and living areas. Weeping Fig (Ficus Tree) – A Natural Oxygen Producer Weeping Figs are excellent indoor trees for improving air quality. Research from Pukyong National University in Busan, Korea, found that these plants help increase oxygen levels while filtering harmful compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene. Their graceful structure makes them a beautiful focal point in larger indoor spaces. Areca Palm – A Natural Humidifier and Air-Purifying Plant Also known as the Butterfly Palm or Golden Palm, the Areca Palm is one of the best plants for improving indoor air humidity. It helps remove toxins like benzene and xylene while producing oxygen. For the greatest impact, placing two palms together can enhance their air-purifying benefits. They’re also safe for bedrooms and family spaces. Spider Plant – A Classic Oxygen-Producing Houseplant Many people remember Spider Plants from childhood homes, and for good reason. They are incredibly easy to grow, produce generous amounts of oxygen, and help filter carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene from the air. Spider Plants are also thought to reduce stress and are a great option for bedrooms, kitchens, and offices. Create a Healthier Home With Oxygen-Producing Houseplants Just as oceanic plankton quietly support life on Earth, indoor plants work behind the scenes to improve air quality and create healthier homes. Adding even one of these oxygen-producing houseplants can make a noticeable difference in both the look and feel of your space. When choosing plants for your home, be sure to consider lighting conditions, care requirements, and safety for pets and children. With the right selection, you can enjoy cleaner air, increased oxygen, and a home filled with natural beauty. If you’d like help selecting the best oxygen-producing houseplants for your space, stop by our greenhouse—our team is always happy to help you grow healthier indoors. Pothos Snake Plant Aloe Vera Gerbera Daisy Peace Lily Weeping Fig Areca Palm Spider Plant

Move Over Pineapples, Pizza Has A New Hot Debate

By Nicole Lane Move over pineapples, pizza has a new hot debate on what goes on it, and it’s actually hot. I am talking about hot honey. Yes, you read that correctly. Hot honey on pizza. If your nose scrunched up, your mouth frowned, and you pulled your head back, you are not alone. I did the same thing when my brother suggested it to me. Let me tell you the whole story. I am originally from Massachusetts and went back to see my family this summer. My brother, knowing how Cold Creek Nurseries Market has quite a few delicious specialty items, asked me if we carried hot honey and if so, to bring it up with me. My brother is one of the fussiest eaters I have ever met. He was the kid eating a frozen pizza at Thanksgiving while my entire extended family enjoyed antipasto (Sicilian charcuterie), prime rib, eggplant parm, ham, and turkey amongst a myriad of side dishes that would make Gordon Ramsay proud. I had no idea what he wanted this hot honey for, but I purchased the it from the market, wrapped it carefully in my luggage, and brought it on vacation. Our second night at my parents' house was pizza night. My dad has a pizza oven he built and is his pride and joy. He built a house for it to protect it from the elements and throws pizza parties year-round for friends and family. I have to admit, the pizza is absolutely delicious—he does a fantastic job. The first pizza he cooked was a classic—pepperoni. We all excitedly made our plates and waited anxiously for it to cool just enough that we would not burn the tops of our mouths, and my brother turned to me and asked where I put the hot honey. I asked how he could be thinking about honey when we were about to dive into some pizza Ninja Turtle style. This is where it gets weird. He puts hot honey on pizza. Sweet, delicious honey made by South Carolina midland bees infused with peppers for a kick of heat was about to adorn the top of a stone-fired pepperoni pizza in my parent’s backyard. To top off the insanity, it was going to be eaten by my “only eats corn for a vegetable” pickiest of picky eaters brother. I thought he was joking. He was, in fact, not joking. As I watched him liberally drizzle hot honey on his pepperoni pizza, my nose scrunched, my mouth frowned, and I pulled my head back. Being the little brother that he is, he teased me in front of my kids about being too much of a wimp to try it. Never to be outdone by my brother, I put the thinnest drizzle of hot honey on my pizza I could, cursed my brother internally as I brought it to my mouth, and ate pepperoni pizza with hot honey. And I was completely blown away. Magic. That is the only way to describe how the burst of flavors that in all rational thought would never work together somehow created the most delicious flavor palette I have had in a very long time. The bold, savory, salty taste of the pizza mixed with the sweet, rich taste of honey with the added heat of the cayenne peppers coming through at the end created a magical symphony of flavors that worked together to create something beautiful. The only part that I did not enjoy was having to tell my little brother that he was right. The next time you have a pizza night and want to take it to the next level, add some hot honey. You will not be disappointed. My Dad's Pizza Oven

The Juicy Debate Over the Peach State

It is a delicious time to live in the south as it is peak peach season. The peaches on the trees are larger and the freestones will soon grace the shelves for anxious peach enthusiasts waiting to bake and can to save their sweet taste for a reminder of summer come fall and winter. This time of year brings fresh peach snacks, peach ice cream, peach cobbler, and a question that brings up much debate: Why is Georgia The Peach State and not South Carolina? South Carolinians will boast that they produce three times the amount of peaches as Georgia so they should have the title of “The Peach State.” Visit our Market and you will see signs that say, “South Carolina Grown Peaches, the Tastier Peach State.” Edgefield county is located right here in the CSRA and produces 60% of the state’s peaches. The fields are vast and create a stunning backdrop when in bloom for photographers. Producing three times the amount of peaches does not give South Carolina the clout it would need to denounce Georgia of its title of “The Peach State.” Why, you may ask? Well, if we are going by production logic, then California would take the crown. In 2022, California grew an impressive 475,000 tons of peaches, more than seven times what South Carolina produced. They lead the country in production of both clingstone and freestone peaches. This brings us back to the question: Why is Georgia known as The Peach State? Georgia is the top peanut producing state, but “The Peanut State” leaves much to be desired. It is also the only state to produce Vidalia onions, but again, the connotation of “The Onion State” is not one Georgia residents want to be associated with. Were peaches picked out of desperation? The answer is layered in history with opinions, slavery, horticultural science, the Civil War, and the railroad system. Louis and Prosper Berckmans purchased an orchard in Augusta in 1856. It would become the orchard known as Fruitland, which is now the home of The Augusta National where the Masters Tournament is held. By the end of the Civil War in 1865, between the abolishment of slavery, repetitive cotton production depleting the soil, and the desire for a low maintenance crop, peach production began to increase. Thanks to the Georgia State Horticultural Society, which was founded in 1876 outside of Augusta, Georgia now produces over 40 varieties of peaches. At one time the society was led by Prosper Berckmans who used his orchard to test and create new varieties of peaches. Berckmans developed peaches that were more suited to the Southern climate and was known as “The Father of Peach Culture.” One of the new varieties he created was perfected in 1870 by Samual Rumph who named it after his wife, Elberta. The Elberta peach was the highest produced peach in Georgia until 1960. Rumph played an instrumental role in the development of refrigerated box trucks used to transport peaches to the North on a significantly larger scale. Opinions come into play when a taste test is discussed. Some peach enthusiasts say the clay soil of Georgia homes the perfect nutrients for the sweetest, most delicious peaches. Georgia’s deep history with peaches is how it became known as The Peach State. One item we can all agree on, The Vidalia Onion State doesn’t have quite the same ring to it as The Peach State. Peaches from Johnston, SC Signage proclaiming South Carolina is "the tastier peach state."

The Golden Legacy of South Carolina: Uncovering the State's Rich Rice Heritage

Tucked away in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, where the Ashley and Cooper rivers converge, lies a region steeped in history and tradition. For centuries, this picturesque corner of the Palmetto State was renowned for its thriving rice industry, earning South Carolina the esteemed title of "The Rice State." A Crop of Prosperity In the early 18th century, European settlers introduced rice to the Lowcountry, recognizing the region's unique combination of fertile soil, mild climate, and abundant water supply as ideal for rice cultivation. The crop flourished, and by the mid-1700s, South Carolina had become one of the largest rice producers in the American colonies. The state's rice exports played a significant role in the colonial economy, with Charleston serving as a major port for shipping rice to destinations around the world. A Legacy Built on the Backs of Many The success of South Carolina's rice industry was, unfortunately, deeply intertwined with the institution of slavery. Enslaved Africans, brought to the region against their will, were forced to toil in the rice fields, often under brutal conditions. Their labor, skills, and knowledge of rice cultivation, passed down from their African ancestors, were instrumental in the crop's success. It is essential to acknowledge the profound contributions of these individuals, whose sweat helped build the foundation of South Carolina's rice industry. The Golden Era of Carolina Gold During the 19th century, South Carolina's rice industry reached its pinnacle, with the introduction of a new variety of rice known as Carolina Gold. This premium rice, prized for its distinctive flavor, texture, and golden hue, became the gold standard of rice production. Carolina Gold was grown exclusively in the Lowcountry, where the unique combination of soil, climate, and water created the perfect conditions for its cultivation. The rice was highly sought after, both domestically and internationally, and its popularity helped solidify South Carolina's reputation as a premier rice-producing state. The Decline of a Legacy As the Civil War drew to a close, the institution of slavery, which had underpinned the rice industry for centuries, was abolished. The sudden lack of labor, combined with the lack of working capital and the devastation wrought by the war, dealt a severe blow to South Carolina's rice production. Despite efforts to adapt to the new economic landscape, the industry struggled to regain its footing. A series of severe storms in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including the devastating Hurricane of 1893, further eroded the state's rice production capabilities. The final blow came in the early 1900s, when the last of the great rice plantations ceased operation, marking the end of an era. The once-thriving rice industry, which had been the backbone of South Carolina's economy for centuries, came to a grinding halt. The legacy of Carolina Gold, once the pride of the state, seemed destined to fade into memory. Yet, in recent years, a resurgence of interest in this storied crop has led to a revival of sorts, with small-scale farmers and artisanal producers like Jimmy Hagood from Food for the Southern Soul working to revive the tradition and bring the rich flavor of Carolina Gold back to the tables of the Lowcountry. A Taste of Tradition Today, the legacy of South Carolina's rice industry lives on, and Food for the Southern Soul is proud to offer a taste of this rich heritage. Their Carolina Gold Rice is grown in the same Lowcountry fields where the crop was first introduced. We are proud to carry this South Carolina tradition in our Market.

Navigating Hot Spots and Pythium Disease in Your Lawn: Expert Tips

As we progress through the summer, many homeowners are encountering troublesome "hot spots" in their lawns, accompanied by a surge in pythium disease. Here are some valuable insights from our expert Maintenance Team to help manage your lawn during these challenging times. Remember that each property has its unique needs and there is not a “one size fits all” correction. Optimizing Your Irrigation System To maintain a healthy lawn, it's advisable to run your irrigation systems five days a week. For lawn areas using rotating or gear drives, each zone should receive at least one hour of watering. Stationary heads can suffice with 15 minutes per zone. The goal is to achieve deep soaking, allowing the roots to absorb sufficient moisture while ensuring the lawn dries out during the day. Be vigilant about areas that remain overly wet and adjust those zones accordingly. This delicate balance requires continuous monitoring. Despite the occasional afternoon storms, it is crucial not to turn off your irrigation system even if you experience a brief 15-minute downpour. Irrigation serves to keep your lawn alive during dry spells but cannot replace the natural benefits of rainfall. Understanding the Impact of Rain Natural rain does more than just water your lawn; it provides essential nutrients that enhance the green, vibrant appearance of your grass. While irrigation and fertilizers support lawn health, they cannot replicate the rejuvenating effects of a good rain. This is why your lawn appears particularly lush and green after a rainfall. Identifying and Addressing Hot Spots Hot spots occur when insufficient water reaches certain areas of your lawn. You may notice leaves curling up as the grass tries to conserve moisture, sometimes giving these spots a bluish or silver tint before they eventually brown. It's a common misconception that a visible stream of water from your sprinkler ensures adequate irrigation. The sprinkler's diffuser, which creates a "rain curtain," may malfunction, leading to uneven water distribution. This can result in greener arcs of growth around the hot spots. To test your irrigation system's effectiveness, place bowls around your lawn, run a full cycle, and measure the water in each bowl. This will help identify any inconsistencies. Ensure you have "head-to-head" coverage, where streams from one sprinkler head reach the next, providing even watering. Look out for obstructions like tall grass, shrubs, or dirt that might block the streams, and adjust any misaligned sprinkler heads caused by mowing or other lawn activities. Combating Pythium Disease Pythium disease thrives in stressed areas, particularly in hot spots and drought conditions. As discussed in previous newsletters, stressed grass is more susceptible to diseases, and pythium is a prime example. This pathogen waits for the grass to open up to absorb water, then swiftly attacks. Although pythium can cause rapid damage, it's not always fatal. Quick intervention can lead to recovery. Our Lawn Disease Program, combined with compost materials in affected areas, can significantly aid the recovery process. By staying proactive and attentive to your lawn's needs, you can mitigate the effects of hot spots and pythium disease, ensuring a healthier, more resilient lawn throughout the summer.

The Carolina’s Carnivorous Plant

When you mention carnivorous plants to a person, there are two common thoughts that come to mind. One is of a part horror, part comedy rock musical and the other is of a humid, tropical landscape with dense greenery housing these bug eating plants. While breaking out into “Suddenly, Seymour” is never wrong, many will learn that the tropical landscape is not always where these carnivorous plants grow and thrive. Believe it or not, the coastal plains of the Carolinas are the only location where venus fly trap grows naturally. (That’s right, Audrey II is a Southern Belle!) Venus fly traps are the most recognized carnivorous plant in the world and they are all within a 75 mile radius of Willmington, NC. Charles Darwin was quoted as saying it is “one of the most wonderful plants in the world.” Inside their growing area is the Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve in Horry, South Carolina. Located a stones throw from the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach, this nature wonderland is home to a plethora of fauna and flora, most notably the Venus flytrap and the highest number of black bears in the state. The Green Swamp Preserve in Brunswick County, North Carolina is another oasis that homes the Venus flytrap. Both of these locations prescribe frequent controlled burns to enhance and protect their fauna. The Venus flytrap is one of the plants that benefits from these burns. The persistent burning removes the dense shrubbery and low vegetation which allows light to penetrate to the floor of the forest. This allows the Venus flytrap to not only exist, but thrive. The largest threat to these carnivorous plants is the loss of their habitat. Foundations like the Coastal Conservation League are making sure that their habitat is protected. Many people believe that the eyelash-like spikes on the outside are what need to be triggered to make the Venus flytrap close, but this is actually set off by small hairs on the inside of the trap. The Venus flytrap is an intelligent plant, and does not waste energy closing on a possibility of dinner. It has an internal clock that counts the number of touches the hairs receive in a specific amount of time. Every time its prey touches a hair, it sends an electric signal. Two signals within 20 seconds triggers the closing of the trap. Three or more signals and it begins to fill with the digestive enzyme that “eats” the prey and allows the plant to digest the nutrients. Digestion takes about 5-7 days and the trap will stay closed the entire time. Once the bug is fully digested, the Venus flytrap will once again open and await its next meal. Venus flytraps can go a month or two without eating, but will be weak and slow growing. If you are growing them indoors, you should feed them weekly or biweekly. You do not have to worry about your plant needing constant food and wanting world domination.

Mastering Dollar Spot: A Comprehensive Guide for Lawn Enthusiasts

As we transition from late spring into the warmth of summer, many lawn aficionados encounter an unwelcome guest: Dollar Spot. This pervasive disease thrives in wet, humid conditions, especially when leaves remain wet for 10 to 12 continuous hours. Prolonged periods of overcast weather only exacerbate the issue. However, there's hope—Dollar Spot tends to abate when daytime temperatures soar above 90 degrees. So, one key strategy is to let your yard dry out! Dollar Spot manifests as small brown to light tan spots, roughly the size of a silver dollar. It's worth noting that while money doesn't grow on trees, neither should Dollar Spot on your lawn. In Zoysia and Centipede lawns, these lesions can be larger and more persistent, while in Bermuda lawns, they may merge into more extensive patches. Early in the morning, when dew is present, you might even spot fuzzy white mycelium in the affected areas. Though rarely causing permanent damage, Dollar Spot can significantly mar the aesthetic appeal of your lawn. In grasses with longer blades, such as Zoysia and Centipede, the entire leaf may brown and take longer to recover compared to Bermuda grass. Lawns deficient in nitrogen and other essential nutrients are particularly vulnerable to Dollar Spot and are slower to bounce back. Adhering to a regular fertilization program is crucial. Our tailored program delivers 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet to ensure your lawn receives the necessary nutrients. Adjusting your watering schedule is equally important—water during dew hours and allow the lawn to dry out during the day, but be mindful of potential dry spots as drought stress can be equally detrimental. The typical treatment for Dollar Spot involves applying fertilizer to stimulate growth and then mowing the affected spots. However, this might not suffice, especially for Zoysia and Centipede, which take longer to regrow. Fungicides can aid recovery and offer short-term protection. Preventative fungicide programs are also an option, though they require multiple applications every 30 to 45 days throughout the season. While this approach doesn't guarantee complete immunity, it does enhance recovery rates.

Lantana: The Versatile and Beautiful Plant for Your Garden

Lantana is a stunning and versatile plant that can bring vibrant color and beauty to your garden. Here are some reasons why lantana is a great addition to any landscape: Drought and Heat Tolerance: Lantana is incredibly resilient and can thrive in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for gardens in warmer climates or areas with water restrictions. Deer Resistant: If deer are a problem in your area, lantana is a great choice as it is deer resistant, helping to protect your garden from these hungry visitors. Great Pollinator Plant: Lantana's colorful flowers are a favorite among pollinators such as butterflies and bees, making it a great choice for attracting these beneficial insects to your garden. Long Blooming Season: Lantana blooms from spring to frost, providing months of beautiful flowers and color in your garden. Perennial: Lantana is a perennial plant, meaning it will come back year after year, providing reliable beauty to your garden. Color Variety: Lantana comes in a wide range of colors, including vibrant yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds, allowing you to choose the perfect color to complement your garden. Mounding, Upright, and Trailing Varieties: Lantana offers a variety of growth habits, including mounding varieties that grow 2-3 feet tall, upright varieties that can reach 6 feet in height, and trailing varieties that are great for ground cover and hanging baskets. Cut Flower: Lantana flowers are beautiful in cut flower arrangements, adding a pop of color and interest to any bouquet. Specific Varieties: Mounding Varieties: Chapel Hill Yellow, Firestorm (with yellows, oranges, and reds), and New Gold (gold flowers) are great choices for mounding varieties, adding bright and cheerful colors to your garden. Upright Varieties: Athens Rose (pink and yellow flowers) and Irene (orange with pink and yellow flowers) are stunning upright varieties that can add height and drama to your garden. Trailing Varieties: White and Lavender trailing varieties are perfect for ground cover and containers, adding a cascading burst of color to your garden. Lantana is a versatile and beautiful plant that can add color, beauty, and interest to your garden. Whether you choose mounding, upright, or trailing varieties, lantana is sure to be a stunning addition to your landscape. Chapel Hill Yellow Firestorm Lavender Lantana New Gold Irene

Cook a steak that’s frozen solid? Really?

Yes. Really. Many home cooks and professional chefs alike have made this their method of choice. Cooking a steak from frozen is a convenient and effective route to mastery for a delicious and perfectly-cooked steak. So much so that I freeze every raw steak I buy on purpose before cooking. Really. Let's say friends drop in unannounced around dinner time. Or you have a crazy busy day, and nothing planned for dinner. Your timing couldn't be better to serve juicy steaks by preparing them straight from the freezer. Beyond convenience, cooking from frozen has more advantages than you may be inclined to believe: 1) Retention of Juices. Thawing, a long-recommended best practice, is not the best at all. Thawing frozen steak causes it to lose flavorful juices. While a frozen steak begins cooking before juices drain away, resulting in a tender, juicer steak. 2) Even Cooking. With a thawed steak, outer layers cook faster than the center. Frozen steaks cook evenly at your preferred doneness inside with a much thinner tasty, seared margin on the outside. 3) More control. Less overcooking. Whether you use a low temp oven method or an air fryer method, you have more control over how you want your steak to finish--rare, medium or well done. 4) Thawing Danger Zone. Before cooking, a thawed steak’s surface spends time in the temperature range of 40ºF to 140ºF, where bacteria grow rapidly during the thawing process. A frozen steak spends practically no time in the bacterial hot zone before bacteria-blasting cooking begins. Now, let's get busy. You can cook a frozen steak in your favorite way. On the stove, in the oven, on your grill or in your air fryer. No matter which method you choose, you're going to love how your steaks turn out. You many never go back. In the interest of time, we're going to show you how to cook a frozen steak in my two favorite ways. Air Fryer Method and Stove/Oven Method. First, my preferred method of the two. No searing needed. Air Fryer Method: 1) Choose frozen steaks at your favorite marketplace. Red and marbled, around 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick, grass-fed prime or choice cuts. Tip: If you buy unfrozen steaks to freeze and use later. Overwrap, like I overwrap steaks. First in Cling Wrap. Then in a zipper freezer bag with the air sucked out. Lastly, I put that in a Glad lidded storage container. If you go to all this trouble, your frozen steaks will come out of the freezer looking just like they did when you bought them raw, rock hard, but bright red and ready to air fry. 2) Preheat your air fryer for 2-3 minutes at the temperature recommended for cooking steak for your air fryer. Typically, 390º to 400º. 3) Apply Generous Seasoning. Salt and cracked pepper and any other seasoning you may desire while the air fryer is preheating. 4) Place the frozen steak(s) in the air fryer, leaving space between them to allow for air to circulate. 5) Cook to doneness desired. Follow guidelines of your air fryer. The times below are for frozen steaks about 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick. a) Medium Rare Steak: Cook about 19-22 minutes, flipping half way. b) Medium Steak: Cook about 22-26 minutes, flipping half way. c) Well-Done Steak: Cook about 26-30 minutes, flipping half way. 6) Check for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to gauge internal temperature. Medium Rare, aim for 145º; for Medium, aim for 165º; for Well-Done, aim for 175º - 185º. These are approximate levels of doneness depending on the size of steaks and personal preference. 7) Rest and serve. Once the streak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and rest it for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the most juicy, flavorful steak. Now, for my other favorite way to cook a frozen steak: Iron Skillet Seared and Oven Finished. 1) Start with a prime or choice frozen steak from the marketplace where you shop. Look for steaks around 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick, evenly marbled. 2) Seasoning: Generously season with salt and pepper or add any other seasoning you like. 3) Preheat the oven: Set the temperature to 275°F to 300°F. Lower temperatures are preferred to ensure even cooking without overcooking the exterior. 4) Pan-searing: Begin by searing the frozen steak in a hot iron skillet with a bit of extra light olive oil or avocado oil because of their healthier high smoking points. Sear each side for a few minutes until it's well-browned, then transfer your steak to the oven to finish cooking to your desired doneness. This phase should take around 1-2 minutes per side. 5) Place skillet in oven. Finish cooking the steak at what seems too low, but trust me. The oven should be 270º to 300º. Cook the steak in the oven for approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Check the internal temperature periodically using a meat thermometer. Here's a rough guideline for internal temperatures: For medium-rare: Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. For medium: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. For well-done: Aim for an internal temperature of 170°F. 6) Resting Time: Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy, flavorful steak. In the end, preparing a frozen steak is an adventure worth embarking on. So, whether you're aa steak aficionado or a novice in the kitchen, don't hesitate to give it a try.

The Wonderful World of Lemons: Exploring Four Unique Varieties

When life gives you lemons, you might be surprised at the variety! While the Harvey lemon is likely the one you're most familiar with, there are three other fascinating varieties that offer unique flavors and characteristics. Let's delve into the world of lemons and discover what makes each variety special. Harvey Lemon: The Grocery Store Staple The Harvey lemon is your standard, run-of-the-mill lemon, commonly found in grocery stores and used in households around the world. It's the lemon you reach for when you need a burst of citrusy goodness in your cooking, baking, or refreshing drink. While it might not be as flashy as its counterparts, it certainly gets the job done! Pink Variegated Lemon: A Stunning Twist Imagine a lemon tree with green and white leaves, bearing fruit with a surprising pink flesh. That's the pink variegated lemon for you! This spontaneous mutation was discovered in 1930 in California and has since become a favorite for making pink lemonade. Its unique appearance adds a touch of whimsy to any garden or orchard. Meyer Lemon: The Baker's Best Friend If you love baking, you'll fall head over heels for the Meyer lemon. This sweet lemon has a hint of tartness in its flavor profile, making it perfect for adding a zing to your baked goods. Meyer lemons are also prized for their thin skin and juiciness, making them a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Ponderosa Lemon: Big, Bold, and Beautiful The ponderosa lemon is a true heavyweight in the lemon world. It's a cross between a lemon and a citron, bred specifically to produce larger fruit. If you're looking to make a statement with your lemons, the ponderosa is the way to go. Its size makes it a standout in any fruit bowl or garden. Caring for Your Lemon Trees Lemons thrive in hot, sunny conditions and prefer soil that is mostly dry. To keep your lemon trees happy and healthy, fertilize them with citrus tone three times a year. With the right care, your lemon trees will reward you with an abundance of fruit that's perfect for cooking, baking, and enjoying fresh. The world of lemons is a diverse and exciting one, with each variety offering its own unique flavor and characteristics. Whether you're a fan of the classic Harvey lemon or you prefer the sweetness of the Meyer lemon, there's a lemon out there for everyone. So why not add a splash of citrusy goodness to your life and explore the wonderful world of lemons today? Meyer Lemon Pink Variegated Lemon Ponderosa Lemon Watch as Christina teaches us about the delicious and beautiful lemon trees we carry at Cold Creek Nurseries.

Creating the Most Beautiful Mailbox on the Block with Vining Plants

Adding vining plants around your mailbox can transform it into a stunning focal point that catches the eye of everyone passing by. Whether you have a sunny spot or a part shade area, there are plenty of options to choose from to create a mailbox garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Full Sun Beauties Mandevilla: Mandevilla is a classic choice for mailbox vines, known for its vibrant blooms and lush foliage. Available in red, white, pink, merlot, and white, Mandevilla adds a pop of color and tropical flair to your mailbox. Its twining vines can be trained to climb a trellis or mailbox post, creating a striking vertical display. Hyacinth Bean 'Ruby Moon': This stunning vine features deep purple flowers and rich, burgundy foliage, adding a touch of drama to your mailbox garden. Hyacinth Bean is easy to grow and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the beauty of your garden. Morning Glory 'Cardinal Climber': As the name suggests, this variety of Morning Glory produces striking red flowers that are irresistible to hummingbirds. The fast-growing vines quickly cover your mailbox post or trellis, creating a lush, green backdrop for the vibrant blooms. Part Shade Elegance Clerodendrum 'Bleeding Heart' Vining Plant: This unique vine produces clusters of white flowers with a striking red "bleeding" out of the center, resembling a bleeding heart. The vine thrives in part shade, making it an excellent choice for areas that receive dappled sunlight throughout the day. Planting and Care Tips - Choose a sturdy trellis or support structure for your vines to climb. - Plant vines at the base of the mailbox post, ensuring they have enough room to grow and climb. - Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. - Prune vines as needed to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. With these vining plants, you can create a mailbox garden that is not only beautiful but also a haven for pollinators and hummingbirds. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect mix of colors and textures for your unique mailbox garden. Coral Orange Mandevilla Merlot Mandevilla Red Mandevilla White Mandevilla....

Unveiling the Underground Invaders: Mole Crickets

When you hear the word "mole cricket," your mind might conjure images of adorable, furry creatures burrowing underground. However, in the world of insects, mole crickets are a different story altogether. These critters, found in South Carolina, are akin to regular crickets but with a twist – they possess large forearms designed for digging. In South Carolina, three species of mole crickets roam: the tawny mole cricket, southern mole cricket, and northern mole cricket. While the northern variety causes minimal damage to turf, the tawny and southern species can wreak havoc on your lawn. These subterranean insects tunnel underground, feasting on grass roots and causing significant damage. Interestingly, they also exhibit a penchant for light, often returning to the same mating and egg-laying spots year after year. Clemson University's Home and Garden Information Center sheds light on managing these critters: "A mole cricket management program will not provide 100% control. Mole cricket activity and chemical efficacy are both influenced by weather and soil conditions. With these conditions constantly changing, the reduction of mole cricket populations in turfgrass becomes more of a 'management' solution instead of a 'control' solution." According to Gary Forrester, Horticulture Extension Agent at Horry County Extension Service, and Joey Williamson, PhD, HGIC Horticulture Extension Agent at Clemson University, the optimal time for treating lawns with insecticides for mole crickets is during June and July. At this time, turfgrass damage is minimal, and the mole crickets are still in their immature, small stage. To combat these lawn-damaging insects, consider our mole cricket program, Top Choice. This dry, powdery insecticide is applied in June, and interestingly, it's the only application that benefits from immediate watering afterward. If you've experienced mole cricket problems in the past, this service is highly recommended. These pests are prevalent in our area, and their ability to cause overnight devastation is unparalleled, especially targeting Bermuda, Zoysia, and Centipede turfgrasses. Don't let mole crickets turn your lush lawn into a battlefield. Consider our Top Choice program and reclaim your turf from these subterranean invaders.

Keeping Your Lawn and Shrubs Healthy: Understanding Landscape Diseases

Just like humans, lawns and shrubs can fall victim to various diseases. Brown Patch, Spring Dead Spot, Dollar Spot, Pythium, and many others are common threats. Understanding the conditions that foster these pathogens is crucial. Rather than seeking total control, it's more effective to manage these issues. Prevention is key. Just as a healthy lifestyle, proper hygiene, and good nutrition can fortify our immune systems, maintaining our landscapes with proper techniques, fertilization, irrigation, and occasional fungicide applications can help prevent diseases. However, just as we can't guarantee we won't get sick, there's no foolproof way to protect our landscapes completely. Routine soil sampling is akin to getting regular check-ups. It helps identify minor issues before they escalate, providing a snapshot of your landscape's health. This information guides us in making necessary changes and applying treatments when needed. Unlike us, plants can't communicate their distress. We rely on visual cues to detect problems, which means by the time we notice, damage may be significant. This makes diagnosis challenging. Training and continuous learning are essential. We stay updated with the latest research and technologies, ensuring our team is equipped to tackle new challenges. For effective management, we encourage our technicians to obtain their South Carolina Pesticide License and collaborate closely with local experts for diagnostics and ongoing education. While we might not have a "plant whisperer," our commitment to learning and adapting helps us provide the best care for your landscape. In conclusion, just as we prioritize our health, it's important to care for our landscapes proactively. By understanding and managing diseases, we can maintain vibrant, healthy lawns and shrubs that enhance our outdoor spaces.

Using Plants to Naturally Repel Mosquitoes and Flies in Your Yard

Are pesky mosquitoes and flies ruining your outdoor fun? Instead of reaching for chemical sprays, consider using plants to naturally deter these insects. Rosemary, with its eucalyptol content, can be boiled to create a repellent spray. Simply boil 1 cup of rosemary leaves in 1 quart of water for 30 minutes, strain, and let cool. Double the liquid by adding cold water and store it in a spray bottle. Keeping the spray in the fridge when not in use not only prolongs its shelf life but also provides a refreshing spray during hot days. Lavender, known for its calming scent, also repels mosquitoes. Place a few drops of lavender essential oil in a small dish to enjoy its camphor smell, which will deter mosquitoes. You can carry the dish with you as you move around your yard or place it on a table in a sitting area. Catnip is another effective repellent, shown to be 10 times more effective than DEET. Simply rub a catnip leaf to release its oils and use it to deter mosquitoes. Lemongrass, with its high citronella content, can be used similarly to rosemary to create a bug-repellent spray. Another way to rid your yard of mosquitoes and flies is to kill them rather than deter them. Carnivorous plants like the sundew, pitcher plant, or venus flytrap do just that. The sundew is great for mosquitoes, luring them in with its sticky hairs and wrapping them up to digest. The pitcher plant is effective against flies, attracting them with its sweet scent and trapping them inside its pitcher-shaped leaves. Venus flytraps also target flies, luring them in with a sugary scent and trapping them by closing shut. These plants need special care, including bog-like conditions and only watering with distilled or rainwater, as they get their nutrition from eating bugs, not from the soil. By incorporating these plants into your yard, you can reduce the amount of pesky bugs and create a beautiful outdoor space, all while enjoying their natural fragrances and beauty. Christina explains how to naturally repel mosquitoes and flies in your yard using plants you can find at Cold Creek Nurseries. .

Enhancing Your Lawn's Health: The Advantages of Lawn Aeration

Maintaining a vibrant, healthy lawn requires more than routine maintenance like watering and mowing. One often underestimated practice with significant benefits is lawn aeration. This process involves perforating the soil with small holes to facilitate better air, water, and nutrient penetration to the grassroots, promoting deeper root growth and overall lawn health. One of the primary advantages of lawn aeration is improved air exchange. Compacted soil can restrict airflow to the grassroots over time. Aeration alleviates this by loosening the soil, facilitating better air circulation, which is essential for a thriving lawn. Additionally, compacted soil can impede water absorption, leading to water runoff and wastage. Aeration helps water penetrate the soil more effectively, reducing water waste and ensuring adequate hydration for your lawn. Another key benefit of lawn aeration is the promotion of healthy root growth. Strong, deep grassroots are crucial for a resilient lawn. Aeration encourages grassroots to grow deeper, resulting in a lawn that is more tolerant to drought and other stresses. Moreover, a well-aerated lawn allows essential nutrients to reach the grassroots more efficiently, promoting healthier growth and overall lawn vitality. Thatch buildup, which is a layer of dead grass, roots, and debris on the soil's surface, can hinder lawn growth. Aeration helps break down thatch, preventing it from suffocating the grassroots and inhibiting healthy growth. Furthermore, by improving soil aeration, pesticides and fertilizers can penetrate the soil more effectively, reducing the amount needed and enhancing their efficacy. The timing for lawn aeration depends on the grass type. For cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass and fescue, early fall or early spring is recommended. For warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass, late spring to early summer is more suitable. Core aerators, which remove plugs of soil, are generally more effective than spike aerators, as they reduce soil compaction and improve airflow. In conclusion, lawn aeration is a simple yet highly effective method for enhancing the health and beauty of your lawn. By incorporating lawn aeration into your lawn care routine, you can enjoy a lush, resilient lawn that enhances your outdoor space. So, don't overlook this important aspect of lawn care. Your lawn will thank you for it!

Brighten Your Garden with Spring-Planted Bulbs in Zone 8

While many gardeners associate bulb planting with the fall, there are actually several bulbs that can be planted in the spring to add color and interest to your garden in zone 8. With its mild winters and early springs, zone 8 offers the perfect conditions for these bulbs to thrive. Here are some popular options to consider: Gladiolus: Known for their tall, elegant spikes of flowers, gladiolus bulbs can be planted in the spring for summer blooms. They come in a wide range of colors, making them a versatile choice for any garden. Dahlias: Dahlias are prized for their large, showy blooms and come in a variety of shapes and colors. Plant dahlia tubers in the spring after the danger of frost has passed for blooms that will last throughout the summer and into the fall. Lilies: While most lilies are planted in the fall, there are some varieties, such as the Asiatic and Oriental lilies, that can be planted in the spring for summer blooms. These fragrant flowers come in a variety of colors and are sure to make a statement in your garden. Cannas: Cannas are tropical bulbs that thrive in warm, sunny conditions. Plant them in the spring for bold foliage and vibrant flowers that will last all summer long. Cannas come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, and pink. Begonias: Begonias are another tropical bulb that can be planted in the spring for summer blooms. They are available in a wide range of colors and varieties, including upright, trailing, and tuberous begonias. Caladiums: Known for their colorful foliage, caladium bulbs can be planted in the spring for summer-long color. They prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Tips for Planting Spring-Planted Bulbs in Zone 8 Plant bulbs in well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed. Water bulbs regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulch around bulbs to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering. In Conclusion While fall is traditionally the time for planting bulbs, there are plenty of options for spring-planted bulbs in zone 8. Whether you prefer the bold blooms of gladiolus and dahlias or the colorful foliage of caladiums and begonias, there is a spring-planted bulb that is sure to brighten your garden. Plant them this spring and enjoy a summer garden full of color and beauty! Gladiolus Dahlias Lilies Cannas Begonias Caladiums

Transform Your Garden into a Hummingbird Sanctuary: Best Plants to Grow

Hummingbirds are a delightful addition to any garden, with their iridescent colors and aerial acrobatics. To attract these charming creatures to your yard, consider planting perennials and annuals that provide nectar and attract insects, which are also part of their diet. Cigar Plant (Cuphea 'Vermillionaire') is a native perennial with tubular, red-orange flowers that bloom continuously from spring to fall, providing a long-lasting food source. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.) features unique, spurred flowers in various colors that attract hummingbirds with their nectar. Several species of Salvia, including Salvia coccinea (Scarlet Sage) and Salvia guaranitica (Anise-scented Sage), are native to the region and are excellent choices for attracting hummingbirds with their tubular flowers rich in nectar. Shrimp Plant (Justicia brandegeana) is popular and loved by hummingbirds for its unique, shrimp-like flowers that bloom throughout the summer. Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.) with its large flowers, is another favorite treat for hummingbirds. Mandevilla produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, or red that hummingbirds find irresistible. Calibrachoa, also known as Million Bells, is a great choice for hanging baskets or containers, producing an abundance of small, trumpet-shaped flowers that hummingbirds love. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds in your yard. Enjoy the beauty and grace of these tiny birds as they visit your garden in search of nectar-rich flowers. Cigar Plant Columbine Salvia- Scarlet Sage Salvia Red Shrimp Plant Yellow Shrimp Plant Hibiscus Hibiscus Mandevilla Calibrachoa

Good for the Earth

Why We Love Bees Why do we love Bees? The reasons are many. Bees are intelligent. They have been proven to be capable of understanding the concept of zero. This ability to understand the concept of “nothing” indicates advanced thinking by bees. Recent studies have shown they can count. They exceed many intelligent animals with their mathematical abilities that were previously believed to be more limited. It turns out that bees are especially good at math when they are rewarded. And if given a bad flavor when they make errors, their math accuracy improves. These congntive abilities place them in an elite class of animal intelligence that includes primates and dolphins. When they learn to do something new that is beneficial, other bees learn from observing their colleagues. Scientific experiments published in the journal Science involved training bees to move a small ball to a marked location where they were given a reward of sugar-water for accomplishing this task. After the trainee bees learned to move the ball, other bees who had observed this behavior then solved the same task with greater efficiency than the original bee students. Instead of merely copying what they had observed, and with no prompting, they moved a different ball that was closer to the target in order to get the sweet reward. They accomplished this even when the new ball was a different color from the original that was also available, but placed father away than the ball they chose to move. Plants Need Bees Flowering plants of all kinds rely on pollination by bees to reproduce. Without visits from bees, many food plants we all depend upon would not survive. Honey is an earth-sustaining, plant-based sweetener like no other. It contains beneficial nutrients and antioxidants that are good for humans and for bees. We support bees and Southern bee keepers by offering a variety of raw and natural-flavor infused honeys from local producers. Lavender infused honey that is produced locally in Edisto, South Carolina marries the health benefits of small production honey with an aromatic herbal infusion. It can be used in tea, coffee, baking and cold drinks to add a unique complexity to their flavor. Lavender infused honey from Edisto South Carolina drizzled in coffee or tea imparts a mellow floral flavor that bees like, too.

How Jigsaw Puzzles Help Your Brain

“I’m sorry. What’s your name again?” Prescription: A puzzle a day may help keep brain fog away. Interesting enough, your brain actually likes the way you think when working on a jigsaw puzzle. There’s proof. Any mental workout that exercises your brain improves your thought processes. Puzzles fit nicely into this category. When you’re working on a puzzle lots of good things happen. Jigsaw puzzle assembly exercises both your left side, analytic, linear and right side, the creative side of your mind. Bill Gates tries to work on a puzzle a day, that he claims improves his problem-solving skills. He may have read that if you spend 25 minutes a day on a jigsaw puzzle, this activity can boost your IQ by 4 points according to a University of Michigan study on the subject, conducted by Susanne Jäggi and Martin Buschkuehl. When one of the icons of tech looks forward to turning away from screens with a jigsaw puzzle, we may want to follow his lead. A jigsaw puzzle is real, and it takes more than one thumb to accomplish the satisfaction of its completion, with no need for a battery charge to get there. Need more proof about how good puzzling can be? Jigsaw puzzles improve your short-term memory. You may be able to remember someone’s name more easily if you puzzle frequently. Doing a puzzle regularly has been proven to increase your mental speed and memory. When you work on a puzzle, you’re thinking about the big picture, while dealing with all those small pieces spread all over the place. Good for you. Your brain’s ability to discern visual-spatial relationships is being leveraged. Practically speaking, exercising this kind of reasoning helps when you’re parking a car, reading a GPS, learning dance steps and a whole bunch of other useful skills. Jigsaw puzzles are notorious as stress relievers. When you’re concentrating on one action for a long period of time, everyday stress seems to melt away. And all that peace and tranquility improves your blood pressure and heart rate. Why not tell your physician all your good numbers may be a combination of her practice, and yours. Puzzles present an opportunity to gather a family together. Everybody gets a piece of the action, and the glue that holds the family together is found in a common goal that produces a beautiful outcome. On the other side of the coin, puzzles can give you a perfect excuse to ask for some alone time, while you tackle a mind-bending puzzle in peaceful reverie as the too-busy world fades from awareness. There are more wonderful benefits to working on a complex puzzle, but, I have to go now, I’m working on a particularly challenging puzzle and I need some alone time to figure it out. 1. Jäggi, Susanne M. and Buschkuehl, Martin, Surprising Benefits Of Puzzles for our Brain, Accessed 7/12/22, https://cubelelo..com

What’s a Dibbler, and Why Do I Want One?

In one way a dibbler is the opposite of a more familiar word: dabbler, even though the name’s origin probably converged at some point in history. Dabblers are often defined as people who do not take things too seriously. The dibbler borrows a bit of meaning as to its function from dabbling, or, dipping in and out repeatedly, originally referring to water. The dibbler, on the other hand, is something that a committed gardener can really learn to love, and, ultimately, cannot imagine having lived without. (What was I thinking? A mere spade is so… yesterday.) The dibbler is an Australian term for a gardener’s tool that helps efficiently plant a flower or vegetable seed into the ground. Also, a tuber, small plant or a bulb. In fact, a dibbler is often called a “bulb planter”. Dibblers come in a several shapes and designs including the T-handled dibber, the classic straight shaft dibber, a trowel dibber and, originally, a sharp pointed wooden stick dibbler used by farmers during the Roman Empire. Then, it took two Roman farmers to use the tool. One would plunge a long, sharp stick into the ground. Then, a trailing farmer would drop a seedling into the freshly-made hole and cover it with soil. Around two centuries ago, England’s first gardening tool maker created the perfected version of a dibbler, constructed out of Sheffield sterling silver and outfitted with a wooden handle for comfort. Aristocratic though it was, the idea made perfect sense. Now, why might you want to use a dibbler, you ask, when you could just as easily use your finger to poke a hole into the soil to make a place for that seed or bulb? Because it plays havoc with your manicure, for one thing, and because specialized tools are just so, well… cool. Efficiency is another. The ideal dibbler helps guide your dig in one simple motion to just the right depth for what you’re planting. If your tool has a wooden crafted handle, it’s built for comfort, and gloves can fall by the wayside while dibbling, no matter how large your garden plot. However, if you’re unsure of the difference between a weed and a flower, the dibbler may not be for you just yet. The dibbler is for a more involved gardener. They think differently, and are proud of knowing the organics and taxonomy of successful growing. They’re also proud of their armamentarium of tools, that they use for precisely the task for which they were intended. If that’s where you’re headed, welcome to the wonderful world of rewarding gardening at its best. Anyway, that’s what a dibbler is, and why you might want one. Second from right is a stainless steel dibbler, with companion natural-finish wood-handled tools that are a serious gardener’s delight to use.

Let’s Grow Lavender

How to Grow Lavender in Containers Lavender is a fragrant flowering herb with origins in the Mediterranean. It likes heat, full sun, and well-drained sandy soil. It does not like to be damp or cold. It needs water, but should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Lavender can do quite well in containers. One advantage of container-growing lavender is the option to protect it from the occasional cold spell we experience in the Southeastern US. Outdoor lavender pots can be moved into a sunny indoor location and back outdoors again when the cold spell passes. Lavender can be grown from cuttings as well as seeds. Cuttings will sprout in 2-3 weeks. To grow by cutting, make cuts just below where a set of leaves joins a healthy-looking stem. Dip the cut end in root hormone and poke into warm, moist sandy soil in a location with full sun. Once rooted, it does best in a pot that drains quickly when watered. This can be aided by using pots with multiple drain holes, and if indoors, using a non-attached saucer under the pot that can be drained. Use an alkaline, sandy, well-draining potting mix with slow-release fertilizer pellets. Allow the Lavender to dry out fully between waterings, and water sparingly. Natural clay pots are a good choice for lavender because evaporation after watering occurs more quickly in unglazed clay pots. And the naturally warm buff color range of unglazed clay containers compliments lavender’s purple flowers well. Enjoying Lavender Beyond the Garden The captivating scent of lavender has been celebrated for centuries among many cultures. Its aroma has long been associated with calming nerves and promoting relaxation. Studies indicate lavender essential oil may be effective for improving sleep quality for people who have difficulty sleeping. Lavender essential oil should not be ingested, but its use in aromatherapy has shown promise in various studies for its effectiveness in reducing pain during labor, lowering blood pressure, and treating anxiety and stress. The fresh leaves from your container-grown plants can be steeped in hot water to make tea. In addition to the pleasure of its minty floral flavor, tea made from lavender has calming properties that may help promote falling asleep more easily when consumed at bedtime. Lavender is one of the herbs used in herbs de Provence, a mix of aromatic herbs of the Mediterranean that is most often used in chicken, pork, and fish dishes. As a key player in this mild combination of herbs that is used extensively in provincial French cuisine, it is essential. Used alone in cooking, lavender can be too intensely floral and should be used sparingly, to taste. It’s also well suited as a flavoring in fatty sweets such as chocolate and chocolate desserts, ice cream and buttery scones and cookies. Lavender infused honey produced by bees that forage in the wild areas of Edisto, South Carolina is an intriguing and convenient way to add the flavor and scent of lavender to coffee, tea, cocktails, mocktails and baking. Natural raw honey from the region that is infused with lavender is an earth-sustaining plant-based sweetener that brings additional nutritional environmental and health benefits to your lavender enjoyment experience.

Change the Color of Your Hydrangeas: A Gardener’s Guide for Zone 8A

One of the most magical things about hydrangeas is their ability to change color depending on your soil's chemistry. If you’ve ever wished your pink hydrangeas were blue—or vice versa—you’re in luck. With a little patience and the right materials, you can influence your blooms in time for the next growing season. Here’s how it works, what you’ll need, and when to start if you’re gardening here in Zone 8a (Aiken, SC). Understanding the Science Behind Hydrangea Color Hydrangea macrophylla—the classic bigleaf or mophead hydrangea—is the species that responds to soil chemistry. The color shift is all about pH and aluminum availability: Blue flowers appear in acidic soil (pH 5.0–5.5) where aluminum is available to the plant. Pink flowers appear in alkaline soil (pH 6.0–6.5) where aluminum is tied up and unavailable to the roots. Aluminum is key to turning flowers blue, but the soil must be acidic for the plant to absorb it. Phosphorus can block aluminum uptake, so low-phosphorus fertilizers are preferred for blue hues. When to Start in Aiken (Zone 8a) To enjoy color-changed blooms next summer, begin adjusting your soil in fall or early winter—ideally October through January. This gives amendments time to adjust the soil chemistry before the plant begins active growth in early spring. How to Turn Your Hydrangeas Blue Goal: Lower the pH and make aluminum available. Soil Test First Use a soil test kit to determine your current pH. You’ll want it between 5.0 and 5.5 for blue blooms. Apply Aluminum Sulfate Begin in October. Mix 1 tablespoon of aluminum sulfate per gallon of water. Apply around the base of the plant, keeping it away from the stems. Repeat once per month through March. Choose the Right Fertilizer Use a low-phosphorus fertilizer like 25-5-30. The middle number (phosphorus) should be low to avoid blocking aluminum uptake. Mulch With Pine Needles or Oak Leaves These naturally acidify the soil and help maintain a lower pH. How to Turn Your Hydrangeas Pink Goal: Raise the pH and limit aluminum availability. Soil Test First Aim for a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Apply Garden Lime Begin in October. Use 1/2 cup of dolomitic lime per 10 square feet, lightly worked into the soil around the base. Repeat every 2–3 months through March, checking pH periodically. Choose the Right Fertilizer Use a balanced or high-phosphorus fertilizer such as 10-20-10 to block aluminum uptake and support pink tones. Avoid Aluminum If your soil is naturally high in aluminum, container planting may be a better option for full control. Be Patient – Color Change Takes Time! Hydrangea color doesn’t change overnight. It can take a full season—or sometimes longer—for soil amendments to influence bloom color. The sooner you start, the better your results next year. A Final Note Keep in mind that white hydrangeas (like ‘Annabelle’) do not change color based on soil pH—they will always stay white. If you're unsure of your current soil makeup or want a more precise approach, stop by Cold Creek Nurseries—we have soil testing kits, the right soil amendments, and knowledgeable staff to help you create your dream garden bed. Ready to try a little garden magic? Fall is the time to begin. Let’s get those hydrangeas blooming just the way you want them next summer.

Green When Ripe: The Story and Flavor of True Green Tomatoes

Not all green tomatoes are unripe. In fact, some are meant to be green—vibrant, flavorful, and fully mature. At our Market, we’re proud to carry a special variety of green tomatoes that stay green when ripe, delivering a bold, tangy flavor and beautiful color that stands out on any plate. These tomatoes are grown with purpose, not picked prematurely, and their unique character makes them a favorite among chefs, home cooks, and Southern food lovers alike. What Sets These Tomatoes Apart? Unlike traditional red tomatoes harvested early for frying or preserving, these green-when-ripe tomatoes are a true variety, bred to stay green even at full ripeness. They develop just the right amount of sweetness and acidity, with a complex, refreshing flavor profile that’s both crisp and bright—without the raw sharpness of an underripe tomato. Their skin may have hints of yellow, lime, or even faint striping as they ripen, and their interiors are often chartreuse and juicy, with a firm but tender bite. A Flavor That Holds Its Own The flavor of green-ripe tomatoes is often described as: Citrusy and tangy, with just a touch of sweetness Refreshing and clean, without being overly acidic Firm and juicy, making them ideal for slicing or grilling They’re a brilliant way to add color contrast and complexity to recipes, from fresh salads to elevated Southern classics. Ways to Use Them in the Kitchen If you’re looking for something seasonal, Southern, and just a little unexpected, these green tomatoes are your new best friend. Here are some standout ways to use them: 1. Grilled Green Tomato Stacks Slice thick rounds and grill until just tender. Stack with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a colorful twist on a Caprese salad. 2. Green Tomato Gazpacho Blend with cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, and herbs for a bright, chilled soup that tastes like summer in a bowl. 3. Roasted with Herbs Toss wedges in olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme, then roast until edges are caramelized. Serve alongside chicken, pork, or on toasted bread with goat cheese. 4. Green Tomato Tart Layer slices over a bed of whipped ricotta or sharp cheese in a savory tart shell. Finish with cracked black pepper and fresh herbs. 5. Elegant Fried Green Tomatoes Use cornmeal or panko for a refined crust, and pair with a lemon aioli or herbed crème fraîche. These ripe green tomatoes hold their shape and flavor beautifully when fried—no mushy centers here. A True Taste of Summer Green-when-ripe tomatoes are a beautiful example of how diverse and flavorful heirloom-style produce can be. With their vibrant color, firm texture, and signature tang, they offer an exciting alternative to the standard tomato—and a refreshing new way to celebrate the season’s bounty. Visit our Market and pick some up this week—we’d love to hear how you’re enjoying them at home. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply slicing them onto a plate, these green gems are sure to impress.

Real Baby Carrots: A Seasonal Delight Worth Savoring

If you’ve only encountered “baby carrots” in plastic bags at the grocery store, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Those uniform, smooth-edged pieces are actually large carrots mechanically cut and polished down to size. At our Market, we offer the real thing—true baby carrots that are naturally small, freshly harvested, and full of flavor. These tender young carrots, often still sporting their vibrant green tops, are a seasonal treasure that deserve a place in every well-appointed kitchen. Here are a few elegant and delicious ways to enjoy them: 1. Roasted to Perfection Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of real baby carrots. Simply toss them in olive oil with a touch of sea salt and cracked pepper, then roast at 400°F until caramelized and golden. Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze, or finish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a restaurant-quality side. 2. Classic Glazed Carrots A timeless preparation—sauté baby carrots in butter with a hint of maple syrup or brown sugar until just tender. This warm, glossy dish adds both beauty and balance to any dinner table, from weeknight meals to holiday gatherings. 3. Carrot Top Pesto Real baby carrots often come with lush, fragrant greens that are far too good to waste. Try blending the tops into a vibrant pesto with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, nuts, and Parmesan. This earthy, herbaceous spread is wonderful on grilled vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread. 4. Quick Pickled Carrots Pickling is an excellent way to preserve the crisp texture and bright flavor of baby carrots. A quick refrigerator pickle with vinegar, herbs, and spices turns them into an elegant nibble for cheese boards or an eye-catching garnish for cocktails and salads. 5. Fresh, Raw, and Beautiful Because they’re so young and tender, these carrots shine when served raw. Slice them lengthwise for a refined crudité platter, or shave into ribbons to toss with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan for a refreshing summer salad. 6. Slow-Cooked Flavor Baby carrots are the perfect addition to slow-cooked meals. Their size and sweetness allow them to hold their shape and develop deep flavor in stews, braised dishes, or a traditional pot roast. From Garden to Gourmet Real baby carrots are a reminder that some of the best things in life are simple, seasonal, and fresh from the earth. Their naturally sweet flavor and charming presentation make them a joy to cook with—and even more of a joy to share. Visit our Market to pick up a bunch while they’re in season. Whether you're roasting, pickling, or enjoying them fresh, these garden-grown gems are sure to elevate your next meal.

The Resilient Beauty of the Peggy Martin Rose: A Symbol of Hope and Renewal

In gardens across the South, there’s a rose that climbs fences, trellises, and hearts alike—gracing landscapes with clusters of cheerful pink blooms and a story that stirs the soul. The Peggy Martin Rose, also known as the "Hurricane Katrina Rose," is more than just a stunning addition to your garden—it’s a living symbol of resilience, hope, and the unbreakable spirit of renewal. A Rose with a Story The nickname “Hurricane Katrina Rose” comes from its remarkable survival during one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history. In 2005, Peggy Martin, a passionate gardener in Louisiana, lost nearly everything in the aftermath of the storm. Her home, her garden, and most of her beloved plants were swallowed by floodwaters—but one determined rose remained, untouched and thriving. Climbing through the wreckage, this vigorous, thornless rose stood tall—its bright pink blooms a beacon of beauty in the rubble. It was a simple, silent message: life goes on. Symbol of Strength and Beauty Since then, the Peggy Martin Rose has become a cherished symbol of perseverance and healing. Gardeners across the country have embraced it, not just for its inspiring backstory, but because it truly is a spectacular plant. It's known for: Vigorous growth: Once established, this rose grows quickly and abundantly, often reaching 15 feet or more. Thornless canes: Making it especially friendly for family gardens and walkways. Abundant pink blooms: It bursts into color in spring and often reblooms lightly through summer and fall. Low maintenance: It's disease-resistant and remarkably tough—even thriving with minimal care. A Garden Favorite The Peggy Martin Rose is one of the most popular climbers in the South—and for good reason. It flourishes in our climate, handles humidity with grace, and adds a romantic, old-fashioned charm to any space. Whether you let it drape over an arbor, spill along a fence, or climb up a porch post, it brings a sense of timeless elegance and uplifting color to your landscape. Planting More Than a Rose When you plant a Peggy Martin Rose, you’re planting more than a flower—you’re planting a piece of history, a tribute to the human spirit, and a daily reminder that even after the storm, something beautiful can grow. So the next time you're looking to add something special to your garden, consider the Peggy Martin Rose. It's more than just a bloom—it’s a story. And every garden could use a little inspiration.

Irrigation Techniques During Summer Months for Weed and Disease Management

Proper irrigation during the summer months plays a major role in preventing weed growth and reducing the risk of lawn diseases. Deep, consistent watering in the early morning helps strengthen root systems, minimize excess moisture, and keep your landscape healthier throughout the hottest season.

How to Make Your Cut Hydrangeas Last Longer

Hydrangeas are some of the most stunning flowers to bring indoors—their big, cloud-like blooms can brighten up any room. But if you've ever cut a few for a vase only to find them wilting within a day, you're not alone. The good news? With a few tricks, you can dramatically extend the vase life of cut hydrangeas and enjoy their beauty for days longer. Here’s how to keep your hydrangeas looking fresh and full: 1. Cut at the Right Time Morning is the best time to cut hydrangeas. The plants are fully hydrated, and the blooms are less likely to wilt. Choose stems with mature flowers—those that feel firm and a bit papery rather than soft and delicate. 2. Use Clean, Sharp Tools Always use sharp garden shears or scissors and give your tools a quick clean before snipping. A clean cut helps the stems take up water more effectively and reduces the risk of bacterial growth. 3. Immediate Water Bath Right after cutting, place the hydrangeas in a bucket of lukewarm water. Better yet, submerge the entire bloom for about 30–45 minutes. Hydrangeas absorb water through their petals, so this can revive even slightly droopy blooms. 4. Strip the Leaves Remove any leaves that will fall below the water line in your vase. Leaves in water can rot quickly and encourage bacteria growth, which clogs the stems and shortens the life of your flowers. 5. Give the Stems a Fresh Cut and a Vertical Slit Before placing them in a vase, cut the stems at a diagonal to increase water uptake. Then, make a small vertical slit up the center of each stem. This opens up the woody part of the stem and helps them drink more efficiently. 6. Try the Alum Trick This one’s a florist favorite! Dip the freshly cut stem ends in powdered alum (you can find it in the spice aisle). It helps keep the water flowing into the stem and prevents it from sealing off. 7. Change the Water Daily Use lukewarm water and change it every day or every other day. Clean the vase thoroughly before refilling to keep bacteria at bay. Adding a floral preservative—or a homemade mix of sugar, white vinegar, and bleach—can also help extend vase life. 8. Keep Them Cool Display your cut hydrangeas out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like vents or appliances. Cooler temps will help slow down the aging process. 9. Reviving Wilted Blooms If your hydrangeas wilt, don’t give up! Try cutting the stems again and submerging the entire flower in cool water for a few hours. Many times, they’ll perk right back up. Hydrangeas don’t have to be fleeting. With a little TLC, your vase of blooms can stay beautiful and full for up to a week—or longer. Whether you're clipping from your garden or bringing home a bouquet, these simple steps will keep your hydrangeas fresh and lovely.

DIY Tips for Irrigation, Fertilization, and Chemical Usage

Irrigation There is always something that needs to be adjusted or repaired when it comes to irrigation systems. Heads are always getting bumped and hit with lawn mowers, weed eaters and edgers. Dirt will clog systems and pop ups. Squirrels and mice will chew drip lines and risers. Again, a constant battle. Turning your system on and just watching from a living room window is NOT going to be enough. You must do an evaluation of your system. This means getting wet and dirty! You need to be up close and personal with those spray heads and nozzles. Pay particular attention to patterns and coverage. Irrigation systems can be very technical given the size and layout of your property. They are underground plumbing systems with pipes, valves and heads. Repairing some of these components will require special skills and tools. Pipe fixing requires some basic plumbing skills. Document your zones, run times, days and what type of spray head you have in each zone. Be sure to map out or mark the locations of your valve boxes. Keep them clear of debris and uncovered. Your irrigation system should provide an even disbursement of water throughout your lawn. You can periodically test this by placing containers of the same size in various places around your lawn, and then run your irrigation for one complete cycle. Measure the amount of water in each container. This may help you find gaps or improper working diffusers. There are specialized tools that will be needed. You can find some of these at your local home and garden center, Tractor’s Supply and irrigation parts distributors such as Site One in Augusta. Having the proper tools makes repairs so much easier! Dry spots or “hot spots” will show you where you are having problems. It would be better not to have these dry spots appear as they can lead to serious damage and long-term repair times and costs. Dry spots during the summer will lead to disease issues. Usually, Pythium Blight will follow any irrigation problems. This damage can be expensive to repair. This is why it is so important to test your entire system way before you need it. Winter is the best time to perform evaluation checks on your system. You should be walking your lawn regularly and looking for these issues before they take over large areas. Dry spots will start as a slightly discolored area and then turn into a large patch of dormant grass. Some properties may have drip systems. You can even add these types of systems to your garden hose hook up. There are animals that love to eat these! Such a pain in the you know what! Dirt and mud will clog emitters and as the plants grow you may need to adjust the placement of your tubing and emitters. I am NOT a plumber. I will just be straight up about that. I will not touch anything that has pipes running through the ground or house because of this. I can speak from experience, if you are not good at plumbing….do not touch the main components of your irrigation system. Basic adjustments to spray heads and timer program changes are pretty much all I will touch on an irrigation system. There are professionals you can contact to help! Fertilization Remember in school when we would talk about how we are never going to need algebra and advanced math in our adulthood? Well, we were so wrong! If you are going to be doing your own fertilization it all starts with math. There are a few guidelines we must first establish. 1 pound of Nitrogen per 1000 square feet Not to exceed 5 pounds of Nitrogen per year This is the most Nitrogen it is recommended to put out. Too much Nitrogen can have detrimental effects on your landscape and the environment. Also, certain types of grass require less Nitrogen than others. Also, if you are overseeding, Phosphorus is more important than Nitrogen. There are many blends of fertilizer available on the market. Understanding the label and numbers is very important. An even mix of quick release and slow release is always advisable. N – P – K Nitrogen – Phosphorus – Potassium These are the main nutrients in fertilizer. There are other nutrients mixed in, but Nitrogen is typically what we worry about the most. 24 – 0 – 5 24% Nitrogen 0% Phosphorus 5% Potassium This is our standard fertilizer for most lawn applications. The numbers represent the percentage of nutrients that are in the bag you are using. There is a large variety of blends on the market. Before you begin to fertilize you will need the area of the lawn. Measure and get the total square footage for your property. Let’s use the following- 5000 square feet How much Nitrogen can we put out on this sized property? 5 pounds per application/ 25 pounds max per year Now, we must figure out how much fertilizer we can apply. Using our 24-0-5 blend in a 50-pound sized bag. 24% of 50 lbs. = 12 pounds of Nitrogen per bag Or 1 bag can cover 12,000 square feet Now, how much material from the bag are we going to use since we cannot just pull out the Nitrogen. 50 lb. bag at total coverage of 12,000 sqft. = 4.2 lbs. per 1000 sqft. Or 5000 sqft. x 4.2 lbs. = 21 total lbs. of material Now that you figured all that out, you are ready to apply the fertilizer! Yay!!! Next, what type of spreader are you going to use? There are 2 types of spreaders available today. Drop spreaders and broadcast spreaders. The most common and easiest to use is broadcast spreaders. We use Anderson spreaders here at Cold Creek. We also have ride on/mechanical spreaders for large properties. You can purchase residential versions at Lowe’s, Home Depot and other stores. Spreader Output Settings You may find that the manufacturer has included a nice and easy spreader setting chart for adjusting the output. Some bags of fertilizer will have a settings guide as well. Look for the adjustment control knob on your spreader and adjust as needed. You should document each application and track the poundage you use. Every application should be almost the same. I am not saying you need to pull out the scales and take precise measurements doing this. A general amount is good enough! Understanding how your spreader disperses fertilizer is very important. You always want even coverage throughout your lawn for a good even color. “Streaking” is when fertilizer is not applied correctly. Excessive fertilizer can “burn” your grass. This will require some extra care to bring back and possibly some turf replacement. Too much fertilizer is bad for the environment. Be careful not to apply fertilizer near water sources and run off areas. Chemical Usage Let me start by saying – I do not recommend utilizing chemicals if you do not read any of the labels. Just because you saw a TikTok or Instagram video, this does not make you an expert. We spend hours getting training and certifications in chemical usage. Some of us even have state pesticide licenses. With all of that, we are not experts as well. That is why we always read our labels. There are labels on all the typical chemicals you will use in your landscape. Labels contain all kinds of important information for usage and safety. This is a popular herbicide found at several chain stores. It is sold that it can be used on all types of lawns. However, if we read the label it states, “Do not apply to Zoysia grass just emerging from dormancy.” That is very important to know. You can seriously damage your turf if used incorrectly. Notice it also states that you will have visible results in 3 hours. Well, the manufacturer also states the information on the left. Labels can be deceptive. Only broadleaf weeds may show damage in about 3 hours. Not all weeds are broadleaf varieties. Labels will also provide rates for use. Just like fertilizer, you will need to do some math. Spraying Equipment There are backpack, can and tank system style sprayers available. Each has a particular use and method associated with it. Small style sprayers are good for precision and spot treatments. Tank systems are best for covering large areas. Tank systems with pumps and tanks require measurements and area coverage numbers. 2 gallons per minute per 1000 square feet This is the rate we use at Cold Creek Nurseries for our large-scale production systems. More math to do! Let’s look at a popular herbicide for broadleaf weeds. The product is called Speedzone Southern. The active ingredient is 2,4-D. How much material can I spray on my 5000 square foot lawn? Let’s say it is Bermuda turf. Let’s also use a high-rate application. 1.5 floz per 1000 sqft. = 7.5 floz total 2 gallons per 1000 sqft = 10 gallons 7.5 floz. of chemical in a mixture of 10 gallons of water for the carrier. However, Remember, always read the label!!!! Chemical Resistance We prevent resistance to develop by rotating the “Mode of Action”. You should not use the same product more than twice in each period. If you still need to use chemical control, then you must change the mode of action. You will find this information in the label. Chemical resistance has become a huge problem with Poa Annua and Nut Sedge control. They are also finding resistance to very common herbicides such as 2,4-D due to overuse. Weeds will start to show die-off at different times. The season will also impact chemical efficacy as well. Most broadleaf weeds will start to show wilting and discoloration in 48 hours with complete kill in 10 to 14 days. Weeds like Poa and Sedge may take up to 4 weeks to start to show. You should wait a minimum of 2 weeks to reapply a chemical. You will not spray today and then wake up to a weed free yard tomorrow. Chemicals do not work that way! Improper use of chemicals can cause harm to your turf. Spray drift should always be prevented by adjusting droplet size and, of course, not spraying on windy days. It is also not recommended to apply some herbicides in overly saturated areas or even before a water event. There are products that can be mixed with your chemical to aid in their performance. Spreader/Sticker is a very common adjuvant to use. There is also Glypho-Boost, defoamer and dyes that can help. Hopefully this seminar has shown you some of the techniques we use for chemicals and fertilizers. I wish to stress heavily – READ ALL LABELS! Even if you have a lawn care company working on your property, there are still some things that you can do to help. Basic irrigation repair and adjustment can save you time and money by paying attention. If you find that this is too much for you to deal with, then contact us and let us show you what we can help with. Thank You! · Routine maintenance – weekly lawn care and mowing · Details crew – shrub bed maintenance and seasonal plantings · Lawn and shrub care – Chemical, fertilizer and specialty soil amendments · Irrigation repair – evaluations and service · Enhancement – mulch, pruning and basic landscape services Contact our office at (803) 648-3592 or email me at chris.clement@coldcreek.net

The Key to a Healthier Lawn: The Power of Top Dressing

A lush, green lawn starts with healthy soil, and top dressing is one of the best ways to improve it naturally. By adding a thin layer of nutrient-rich material over the grass, you can enhance soil quality, promote stronger roots, and create a thicker, healthier lawn over time. Why Microbes Matter Soil microbes play a critical role in plant health by breaking down organic matter and making nutrients more accessible to roots. Without a robust microbial population, plants struggle to absorb the nutrients they need to grow. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we actively support microbial health by incorporating liquid compost tea into our weed management sprays, ensuring beneficial microbes remain at optimal levels. However, there are times when additional care is required—especially for weak turf, struggling plants in landscape beds, or newly installed sod. In these cases, top dressing is an essential part of any lawn recovery program. Consistency is Key One of the most common misconceptions we hear is:"I top-dressed my lawn, but nothing changed." Much like taking a single antibiotic won’t cure an infection, one application of top dressing won’t immediately transform struggling grass. For best results, top dressing should be applied multiple times throughout the growing season—ideally after each mowing. Regular applications gradually enrich the soil, leading to stronger, healthier grass over time. Top Dressing & Aeration Top dressing is often paired with aeration services, which help alleviate soil compaction and enhance root growth. If using mechanical aeration, it does not matter whether you top dress before or after the process. However, for liquid aeration, we recommend applying top dressing after aeration for the best results. After the summer solstice, plant growth naturally slows. While you can still top dress during this time, spring and early summer applications will yield the most significant benefits. Winter Stress & Lawn Recovery This past winter (2024) was highly unusual for our region, with two separate snowfall events in the same month—something almost unheard of here. The second snowfall left some lawns covered for nearly a week, which is particularly concerning for Centipede and St. Augustine grasses. These warm-season grasses are already vulnerable to cold damage in a normal winter, and prolonged snow coverage may have caused additional stress. If you have Centipede or St. Augustine turf, top dressing this season is essential to aid in recovery. Choosing the Right Top Dressing Material Not all organic amendments are created equal. The best choice depends on your grass type and soil conditions: Zoysia & Bermuda: A chicken manure-based product is ideal. Use pure manure when focusing on nutrient enrichment and recovery, and soil-manure blends for erosion control or leveling. St. Augustine & Centipede: Both chicken and cow manure work well—use whichever is more affordable and accessible. Gardens, Shrubs & Trees: Opt for pure composted manure or high-quality compost without soil additives. At Cold Creek Nurseries, we offer both full-lawn and spot-treatment top dressing services, customized to your lawn’s specific needs.

The Key to a Healthier Lawn: The Power of Top Dressing

Why Microbes Matter

Consistency is Key

Top Dressing & Aeration

Winter Stress & Lawn Recovery

Choosing the Right Top Dressing Material

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