If you're thinking of TN, definitely go for Eastern TN. I moved to Memphis 2 years ago and can't wait to move to the Knoxville area. I've done a lot of research and it seems really nice. Plenty of lakes and rivers and the state park nearby. I lived in FL for a while and if you're used to four seasons you'll definitely miss them if you move to Vegas (Christmas just isn't Christmas when you're wearing shorts). I love that the seasons here are equally spaced the only problem with Memphis is that it is so hot and humid in the summer that in July and August being outside is miserable. It's usual about 95 with 90% humidity, not fun. From what I heard and read, Knoxville is still hot but about 10 degrees cooler in the summer especially in the mountains. There's a town called Maryville which is just south of Knoxville and it seems really nice. One thing you'll have to do to garden here is amend the soil (raise beds are best)since TN has clay soil. I've heard that Maryville makes it easy because they collect the leaves and mulch them and if you ask nicely they'll give you a bunch of the mulched leaves which are perfect for creating lasanga beds. Maryville also seems to have all the major stores either in the town or nearby. The schools there are really good and I know you said you don't have kids but good schools ussually produce good kids and it's much nicer having well behaved neighborhood kids than otherwise.

I was so impressed by all the cultivars and wonderful characteristics of Bignonia capreolata (cross vine), that Marty was talking about above, that I did a little looking to see where they can be found. Some of the better sources I could find (due to price, selection, etc.) are: * Sunlight Gardens (about 20 miles from Knoxville) - http://www.sunlightgardens.com/index.html * TyTy Nursery - http://www.tytyga.com/ * Logee's - http://www.logees.com/default.asp * Fantastic Plants (mail order in West TN) - http://fantasticplants.com/ Does anyone know of sources of other varieties besides 'Tangerine Beauty', var. atrosanguinea, and 'Jekyll'?

Welcome to the group Carol Fay! I'm semi-computer savvy, so if you ever have a question (or multiple questions for that matter) feel free to emial me and I'll do my best to give you an answer(s)! I also wanted to invite you to check out the Knoxville Plant Swap's Website and especially the Swap Forum on that site. You can see what some of us are bringing and maybe even pre-arrange a swap if you like. Here is a link that might be useful: Knoxville Plant Swap

Hi, My husband and I will be moving to the Maryville area soon. We will need to plant some trees for shade around our house...especially for our deck. Anyone have any suggestions for "medium"growth rate shade or ornamental trees?