Making Your Garden a Certified Wildlife Habitat

Making Your Garden a Certified Wildlife Habitat

Turning Your Backyard into an Oasis for Nature’s Critters As a nature enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate web of life that thrives all around us, even in the most seemingly ordinary of spaces. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the joy of watching a kaleidoscope of butterflies fluttering amidst […]

Designing with Native Grasses

Designing with Native Grasses

A Grass-Filled Epiphany 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, but now they were planning a garden composed of informal beds within a formal design. Stymied, I decided to visit the old […]

Get Creative with Upcycled Garden Art

Get Creative with Upcycled Garden Art

Upcycling: The Key to Unlocking Your Garden’s Potential As a self-proclaimed ‘upcycling enthusiast,’ I’ve spent countless hours scouring thrift stores, yard sales, and my neighbor’s curbside trash in search of hidden gems that I can transform into one-of-a-kind garden decor. It’s a passion that’s led me on a whimsical journey, filled with quirky DIY projects, […]

Tips for Establishing a New Lawn

Tips for Establishing a New Lawn

Preparing the Soil: The Key to a Lush Lawn You know the feeling – that giddy excitement when you’ve finally decided to start a new lawn from scratch. It’s like bringing home a newborn baby – all fresh and full of promise. But just like a little one, your new grass needs extra TLC in […]

Best Plants for Early Spring Color

Best Plants for Early Spring Color

Welcoming Spring with Cool-Weather Blooms Ah, the first signs of spring! As the days grow longer and the temperatures start to rise, I find myself eagerly awaiting the arrival of those vibrant, cheerful blooms that herald the end of winter’s grip. If you’re like me, you can’t wait to get your hands in the soil […]

How to Create a Serene Water Feature

How to Create a Serene Water Feature

Unlocking the Secrets of Tranquil Japanese-Inspired Gardens Have you ever stepped into a meticulously designed Japanese garden and felt an overwhelming sense of serenity wash over you? The gentle sounds of trickling water, the graceful movements of koi fish, and the carefully curated display of natural elements all contribute to a calming and meditative atmosphere. […]

Evergreen Shrubs that Thrive in Shade

Evergreen Shrubs that Thrive in Shade

Ah, the age-old conundrum of gardening – what to do with those dreaded shady spots in your yard? Well, my fellow green-thumbed friends, have I got the solution for you. Prepare to be dazzled by the evergreen shrubs that can not only survive, but thrive, in the shadows. The Evergreen Oasis You see, I used […]

Edible Flower Garden

Edible Flower Garden

The Captivating World of Edible Flowers As a passionate gardener, I’ve always been enchanted by the beauty and versatility of flowers. But what if I told you that some of these stunning blooms are not only a feast for the eyes, but also a delectable treat for the palate? Welcome to the captivating world of […]

Gardening Ergonomics: Avoid Injury

Gardening Ergonomics: Avoid Injury

Ouch, My Aching Back! I have a confession to make – I’m a bit of a gardening nut. There, I said it. Anytime the weather is nice and the soil is just right, you’ll find me out there, tending to my little patch of earth. But you know what they say, “No pain, no gain,” […]

Best Annual Flowers for Continuous Bloom

Best Annual Flowers for Continuous Bloom

As a self-proclaimed flower enthusiast and garden designer, I know the struggle of creating a lush, vibrant landscape that maintains its wow-factor all season long. Let’s be honest, those one-hit-wonder annual flowers can be a real letdown – just when you think you’ve nailed the perfect color palette, they start fading faster than a bad […]