This summer I took a couple of photos of yew hedging plants, because “Yews,” in my opinion, should be used much more frequently (for this purpose) than they are. From the small genus, Taxus, there are about 7 species of yews; but, from those species…
What to Plant with Knockout Roses?
If you’re wondering what to plant with Knockout Roses… this 3-4 foot high by 3-4 foot wide shrub can be planted with just about any ground cover, tree, shrub, vine…
For Performance: What’s Not to Like About the Knockout Rose!
It wasn’t until this year that I decided to give the Knockout Rose a try and see if it would be as wonderful a performer as everything I read about it suggested. So far, I’m happy…
How to Get More Beneficial Insects to your Garden
As I learned from perusing, Good Bug Bad Bug, by Jessica Walliser, we’ve got to incentivise beneficials and give them what they want in order to keep them at home and living in our gardens.
Little Free Library
If you love to read books, want to share them and also get to know your neighbors, a new trend coming to a town near you (or your town)– is Little Free Library! (You can start your own. See below.) So far I’ve come upon two Little Free Library boxes. The premise is kind of […]
3 Stone Retaining Wall Ideas for Hillside Gardens
Steep cobble stairs wind along the different terraced levels which contains mostly Mediterranean climate plantings, attractive for viewing from the house or patio above or below.
What Kind of Revival? A 1914 Berkeley Estate Awaits its Fate in the Real Estate Market
Walking around the hills of Berkeley, CA the other day, we came across the Spring Estate. Very cool. What is this? Designed by John Hudson Thomas in 1912, this stately landmark offers expansive views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate, and sits on a rare park-like 2.5 acre site.
Why are my Boxwood Shrubs Turning Yellow? Boxwood Blight?
Most of us enjoy evergreen shrubs like boxwoods because they hold steady throughout the year, providing a permanent framework to other plantings which often disappear in the winter. Plus, they take well to shearing. So why are your boxwood shrubs turning yellow? Good question.
Potting Soil 101
Getting the scoop right on potting soil is important if you’re looking to grow plants in containers. With a specific formulation of ingredients, which varies and (is proprietary in terms of exact percentages) from one brand and bag to the next, potting soils are designed to provide container plants with a balanced growing medium.
Small Garden: 5 Steps to Get you Inspired!
For the moment, forget that it’s a tiny space and just imagine the possibilities. Learning what you like when it comes to plants, furniture, garden styles, etc, is an essential first step, that many people don’t consider.
