Heading to the Motor City
It’s no secret that I love speaking to groups about gardening.
Whether container gardening, urban gardening or designing for pollinators I am always excited and honored to be asked to share my passion with others.
Over the years I have been blessed with many wonderful opportunities to speak at the Boston Flower and Garden Show, the Connecticut Flower Show, the Newport Flower Show and the Philadelphia International Flower Show. Last year I was invited to speak at the Country Living Fair in Rhinebeck NY and Columbus OH. The Ohio experience was made especially sweet, not only because of all the galvanized metal, but also because I could visit my daughter Eliza.
Read More»A Queen, a Bishop and a Big Dill
For me, excitement in the garden is caused by contrast…and the occasional snake that slithers by when I’m on my hands and knees weeding. Contrast is described as “to compare in order to show unlikeness, or difference” and can exist between colors, forms, textures, and shapes. Contrast creates tension and gives life to the garden. Without it things can seem flat, boring, lifeless. Imagine a garden of all daisy-shaped flowers. Or rounded shrubs. Or rounded shrubs with daisy-shaped flowers.
Read More»The Miracle Worker
I can be described by many roles…daughter, wife, mother, gardener, speaker, UMass alum, etc. But, despite what you may like to believe, I am not a miracle worker. It is a role I have never felt comfortable taking on.
As a garden designer I have clients that come to me to change their landscape. I love the process. We sit down, talk about needs, function, do a site survey and then I get to attack the project. From the beginning however I make sure my clients have realistic expectations. I am NOT a miracle worker.
Read More»Beef Up Your Beefsteak.
Did you know the same remedy for your headache can help you grow stronger tomatoes?
Aspirin has been shown to mimic a hormone in tomatoes that tricks the plant into thinking it has been attacked. This SAR (systemic acquired resistance) is a natural defense mechanism and when it is triggered it will result in a healthier, more fruitful plant.
Read More»Frosty Ferns Upon the Window Pane
the frosty ferns, unmelted, gleamed long days upon the window pane.
~ Marian Douglas, The Message of the Flowers
Follow Us!