Camellias are treasured for their winter blossoms and evergreen foliage. Some lesser-known camellia varieties sport variegated leaves that add even more interest to the ornamental package. Variegation of camellia foliage is caused by a genetic mutation or a virus. The latter is usually benign; in fact, horticulturists sometimes deliberately introduce viruses to produce variegation. Commercially available varieties include:
'Winter's Sunset' (Camellia hybrid)—Leaves have light-green margins. Flowers are single and pink. Fall bloomer.
'Greensboro Daybreak' (C. japonica) —Leaves have yellow margins and splotches. Red, semi-double flowers. Winter bloomer.
'Benten-kagura' (C. japonica)—Leaves have an irregular, white border. Red peony-like flowers are mottled with white. Fall bloomer.
'Shikishima Splash' (C. sasanqua)—Leaves splashed with bright yellow. Medium-pink, double flowers. Fall bloomer.
For more information about variegated camellias, visit www.camforest.com. Or call Camellia Forest Nursery in Chapel Hill at (919) 968-0504.
Sodium chloride is the most common ingredient used for de-icing roads and sidewalks. Homeowners typically apply it in the form of rock salt. Excessive salt in snow that melts off driveways and walks can leach into the soil, harming or killing turf grass, trees and shrubs. On a larger scale, salt used to de-ice highways can pollute lakes and streams and is also corrosive to road surfaces. Alternative products exist, but each has its own set of pros and cons. A new product that holds promise for reducing environmental impacts is made from a byproduct of the corn wet-milling process. Some highway departments are experimenting with corn-based de-icers, which are also less corrosive to concrete and asphalt.
Alternatives to sodium chloride include:
For a comprehensive look at these and other de-icing products, go to http://water.greenventure.ca/road-salts-deicers. Regardless of the product you choose, the best way to reduce negative impact is to use only the amount needed. You can easily get carried away with hand-sprinkling. Follow package instructions and measure carefully. Also, be sure to wipe your pet's paws after walks. Salts and chemical de-icers they lick from their paws can cause serious harm.
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