1 Postcard rates will increase by one cent to $0.35 from $0.34. 2  Media Mail will see an increase of 6.2% in 2015. 3  Rates will start at $2.72 (1 lb.), up $0.03 compared to 2014. 4  Parcel Select (non-presort) will see an increase of 9.8% in 2015.
Although the Vitex is known by many names it is best known for its beautiful spikes of purple blooms is has in the summer months. The Vitex is prized for not only these unique desert blooms, but also for its natural ability to attract butterflies to oneâs landscape. One of the plant's common names, monk's pepper, references the use of its seeds as a pepper substitute in monasteries, where it was prized for its intrinsic effects on virility. The small stature and low maintenance requirements of this tree allow its unique properties to be brought into just about any landscape.
Frances Sperl, Denver, CO. Dear Frances, Vanhoutte spirea (Spiraea x vanhouttei) is a popular hybrid of two less well-known species, S. cantoniensis x S. trilobata. It blooms in late spring to early summer, with dense, flattish clusters of clean white flowers, borne on arching stems. To renovate 20-year-old bushes, you may need to take some drastic action (trimming will not be sufficient) that will result in a couple more years of poor bloom before you see results. After flowering time, take a careful inspection of the bushes and determine how many young stems have developed at the base.