There was a time when “fall clean-up” meant getting out the loppers and hedge trimmers and taking almost everything in our gardens down to the ground. It was about leveling and cleaning away all the leaves and old seed heads. But that was then. Now there’s a growing movement to leave
Are our summer heatwave and the smoke from the forest fires in the Pacific Northwest prompting you to spend a little less time outdoors this summer? That’s my excuse for not keeping as close an eye on my yard and garden as I usually do. So now, I’m playing catch-up
A great way to bring your senses alive this summer is to grow herbs.. lots of herbs, and you don’t need an elaborate garden to do it! There are plenty of herbs that are right at home in containers. Your deck, patio, or balcony can become an herbal oasis… a
Let’s start with the treats. Remember how crazy it was buying veggie and flower seeds this past spring? Why not “buy it forward?” Tagawa’s has brought in a great supply of 2021 seeds early and they’re in the racks now! These aren’t leftover seeds from this past season. These seeds
It’s called “kokedama.” It would make a great Scrabble word, but kokedama isn’t a board game. It’s a way of planting. One website I looked at says kokedama is more than a fad: It’s “a way of life.” I might not go that far, but kokedama is definitely fun and
Like most gardeners, I’m convinced that Mother Nature enjoys playing tricks on us. For example, take all the rain we got this past spring. While we had to show a little patience, waiting for things to dry up enough get out and garden, our trees, shrubs and perennials sure loved
I suppose there are people out there who don’t like bearded iris. I just don’t happen to know any of them. If I did, I’ll bet I could change their minds with just a little bit of show and tell. Iris are some of the most beautiful and yet hard-working
Want in on a secret that can make your garden look terrific? Here it is: plant for four-season color. It’s all about looking at the big year ’round picture. Don’t simply focus on what’s in bloom at any given time. Plan before you plant so there are trees, shrubs and flowers creating
Let’s cut to the chase: “vermicomposting,” which is composting in a bin with red wiggler worms, is not icky. Done properly, it is also not difficult or smelly or messy. Sure, you have to follow some basic do’s and don’ts. Don’t keep your worm bin and its contents too wet or too dry.
