BrightleafThe only plants that were existing when we bought our house in 2009 were a Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood), a Redbud (Cercis canadensis), a Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda), and a hedge of Privet (Ligustrum). When redesigning the space, I automatically worked around them because of their maturity, but it wasn’t until the space was complete and being used that I appreciated the level of enclosure they provide.
Almost a year ago I introduced you to a project that I started at my house during the early part of the pandemic. Now I’m back with a reveal of our new and improved backyard space. Read on to learn more about our space!
Many landscape products are marketed to solve your gardening problems. Before you spend money on DIY projects, consider the pros and cons. Read on to learn about some landscape products I don’t recommend and why.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Commercial Container Plantings: Design, Installation, and MaintenanceWere 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
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
