Dried Flower heads are an ornamental highlight to my landscape. I grow a mix of perennials, grasses, and shrubs that I don’t cut back after the flowers are spent. Read on to learn about the plants I use for dried flower heads. Continue reading Plants I Use for Dried Flower Heads
My COVID Project – My Inspiration Part 2
I always encourage my clients to find garden inspiration without worrying about practicality, at least initially. In my last post, I discussed two gardens that served as inspiration for my backyard Covid Project. La Louve and Jardin Majorelle are both stunning and my next step was to figure out how to translate their styles to my ¼-acre residential lot in Durham, NC. My final source of inspiration includes elements of the larger properties but translated to a scale more relevant to my garden. Read on to learn more. Continue reading My COVID Project – My Inspiration Part 2
My COVID Project – My Inspiration Part 1
Over the past few months, I’ve introduced you to my backyard and its challenges, but now I’m excited to move on to my inspiration for the space. As someone who has worked in the landscaping industry for over a decade I’ve seen a lot of gardens –many in person, and many many more in gardening publications. Read on to learn about the two that most inspired me. Continue reading My COVID Project – My Inspiration Part 1
My COVID Project – Solving Problems
When I first told you about my COVID backyard project, I identified two problems – weed management and ineffective use of the space. Read on to learn how I created a space that is both low maintenance and highly functional for my family. Continue reading My COVID Project – Solving Problems
Deer-Proofing Update to My NC Garden
Last year, I made a few attempts to keep the deer from eating my plants. They damaged my Hostas, Oak Leaf Hydrangea, and Strawberry plants. Read on to get an update on my deer-proofing garden successes and failures.
‘I Must Garden’ Cinnamon Scented Deer Repellent
Tropical Plants for NC Shade Gardens
Were you aware that tropical plants can grow in North Carolina and some are even shade tolerant? Tropical plants can offer large, lush leaves and interesting textures to your landscape. Read on to learn about some tropical plants for NC shade gardens.
Fatsia japonica
My Tips for New Gardeners
Edible gardening gained momentum during the pandemic in 2020. I watched as neighbors spent time planting fruits, veggies, and herbs for the first time. Read on for my tips for new gardeners.
New 4’x8’ Raised Bed
Cool Finds on My Neighborhood Walks
I used to take walks on the American Tobacco Trail since it’s close to my house. During the 2020 pandemic, I started walking along the neighborhood streets to avoid the crowded trail and began to pay more attention to the front yards. Read on to learn about some cool finds on my neighborhood walks. Continue reading Cool Finds on My Neighborhood Walks
My COVID Project – Problems in my Backyard
At the start of 2020, I had no plans for significant work in my back yard – in fact, I was looking forward to a break from projects as we were in the process of completing a very involved basement renovation. Once we knew we would be spending a lot more time at home this year I started thinking about how to make our property as comfortable and enjoyable as possible during this challenging time. Our desire to spend time outside with friends and family led to an almost complete renovation of our back yard.
Our backyard when we toured the house in August 2009. Continue reading My COVID Project – Problems in my Backyard
3 Elements for Dry Creek Bed Design
Dry creek beds have gained popularity for stormwater management. They can be successfully designed when considering 3 elements: Environment, Shape, and Planting. Read on to learn more about 3 elements for dry creek bed design. Continue reading 3 Elements for Dry Creek Bed Design