Learning Center

At Spikes & Houles, we know the importance of animal health and comfort during the summer months. That’s why we stock everything you need for a comprehensive fly control plan—from topical sprays and physical gear to feed-through supplements and sanitation tools.

Creeping Bellflower (Campanula rapunculoides), a European import from colonial times (before they knew better) very easily escapes cultivation. According to minnesotawildflowers.com its status is Invasive – ERADICATE! No punches pulled there!

This year’s shrub choice is Dogwood aka Cornus. It’s been a part of human history for centuries and, since the 1800’s, it’s become a favorite of American gardeners. I’m one of them! 

The ‘Scoop has heard from so many of you about how your perennials have not come back or are late to the party. I feel ya.  My Joe Pye Weed that I planted a few years ago are just sticks poking out of the ground. Fellow longtime gardeners are bereft at the loss of so many long-established Coneflowers.

It’s a nay for the ‘Scoop’s lawn. There’s no doubt it was a noble endeavor to help the bees, but anything related to the world of nature takes time to consider all the ramifications. 

Your 2025 Spring Guide to Shopping at Gertens! Everything you need to know to be #ROOTEDINSUCCESS this spring. 

Something old is new again. Keyhole Gardening has (re)gained popularity. It originated in Africa out of necessity. Creating an organic recycling tank in the center of a garden to help grow vegetables in dry, rocky soils. 

Spring is the perfect time to repot your houseplants. Give your plant space to grow in a few easy steps! Follow our Instagram @gertens_ for more content like this.

As our climate continues to warm up, native plants continue to capture our attention. There is nothing wrong with planting cultivars, let’s face it, they’re gorgeous! 

Pots for Pollinators! That reads like a poster. It really should be on t-shirts too. Soon garden centers will be filling up with all sorts of amazing annual flowers. I had a chance to go on a Nursery Tour at Gertens and I can assure you they’ve got it growing on!