Ever since my daughter was a little girl we have made small, sentimental journeys at various times of the year. In spring, we check our favorite garden centers religiously for the first plant arrivals and visit as soon as the pansies hit the pallets. We brave the crowds and the parking challenges to get to … Read more
The name ‘Dr. Huey’ may be unfamiliar, but if you grow roses, I’ll bet you have met him. The doctor is really quite a handsome rose, with a semi-double array of about 15 crimson petals and a center of golden stamens. It grows vigorously, shooting up from the roots with wild abandon. The doctor is … Read more
Right now in my garden, the peonies are finishing their annual run. Known botanically as Paeonia lactiflora, they are universally beloved for their lush, unabashedly sumptuous flowers and gorgeous colors. A single bloom in a tall bottle constitutes an elegant arrangement. Snip a handful of stems and you can create an over-the-top floral extravaganza. With … Read more
I have always loved plants, especially those with showy flowers, but I did not learn to really see flowers until I took a couple of courses in botanical illustration. During my study of that ancient art, I discovered—first and foremost–that I will never be a great artist. That was a bit disappointing, as from time … Read more
I love lavender or members of the rather large Lavendula genus, as do most sane gardeners. All the above-ground parts of the small, shrubby plants are fragrant—including leaves, stems and flowers. Of course the tiny blossoms, which are usually shades of purple or blue purple, but may also be pink or white, are the stars … Read more
