Less is More – Embracing Minimalism in Garden Design
Simplicity Reigns Supreme: Embracing the Beauty of Less is Best Gardening As I step out into my garden on a warm summer morning, I’m immediately struck by the sense of calm and tranquility that permeates the space. Gone are the days of cluttered borders, overgrown shrubs, and a chaotic mix of colors and textures. Instead, […]
Thoughtful Plant Selection for a Carefree Garden
Discovering the Allure of Chickadee Gardens I had a design client email me a picture from a Better Homes and Gardens magazine with the message: “This is what I want.” As I poured over the beautiful photos of a garden photographed in the fall, the bright yellow leaves and tawny grasses possessed a golden quality […]
Unexpected Plants for Shady Gardens
A Flourishing Oasis in the Shadows As a lifelong gardener, I’ve come to appreciate the unique challenges and joys of tending to a shady garden. While many gardeners lament the lack of sunlight, I’ve discovered a whole world of unexpected plants that thrive in the gentle embrace of the shadows. Let me take you on […]
Define Spaces Elegantly with Plant Screens
Taming the Wilderness: The Art of Using Grasses to Carve Out Garden Spaces A few years ago, I was designing a garden for clients who, like me, are big fans of ornamental grasses. We had planted grasses in abundance on their previous property. Now, they were planning a garden composed of informal beds within a […]
Evergreen Structure for Year Round Garden Interest
Evergreens: The Structure That Holds It All Together As a garden designer, I know that creating year-round interest in the garden is one of the most important – yet often overlooked – aspects of any landscape. You see, most gardeners get so enamored with the colorful and overflowing nursery aisles that they forget about the […]
Garden Lighting Made Magical (and Easy!)
Unlocking the Magic of Garden Lighting I’ll be the first to admit it – I’m an indoor girl through and through. Give me a cozy reading nook over a backbreaking landscaping project any day! But a few years ago, something happened that would forever change my perspective on outdoor lighting. It was a crisp autumn […]
Succulents Beyond the Sunny Border – Creative Planting Ideas
Bring on the Quirky Cactus Crew! I’ll be the first to admit it – I have a bit of an obsession with succulents. There, I said it! Ever since I stumbled upon those adorable DIY Coke can planters on Polka Dot Chair, I’ve been smitten. And you know what? I’m not the only one. Succulents […]
Repel Pests Naturally with Plants
Bid Farewell to Uninvited Guests Ah, the joys of gardening – the vibrant blooms, the fresh scents, the satisfaction of nurturing nature’s wonders. But wait, what’s that? Pesky little critters invading my beloved plants? Not on my watch! As a passionate gardener, I’ve discovered the secret weapon to keeping those unwelcome guests at bay – […]
Garden Tasks and Tips for July
A July Journal Pull up a chair, pour a cool drink, and take a deep breath. It’s July, and the garden is in full swing. As I step outside, the warm air envelops me, and the symphony of buzzing insects and chirping birds serenades my senses. July in the garden is a whirlwind of activity […]
Welcoming Winter Interest to Your Landscape
Ah, winter – the season when most of us gardeners lament the lack of vibrant colors and lush foliage in our outdoor oases. But have you ever stopped to consider that this time of year might just be the perfect opportunity to showcase the true stars of your landscape? That’s right, my fellow green thumbs […]