I love to walk—in my neighborhood, my town and wherever I vacation. I never wear headphones or talk on my phone, because I like to save my senses for the small worlds that I encounter on my way. Good suburbanite that I am, I always take stock of the neighbors’ gardens. But I am also … Read more
In the middle of the twentieth century, the Brazilian actress and singer Carmen Miranda was a hit with the public. Known for her large personality, great talent, and fruit-bedecked headwear, she was celebrated for her “exotic” beauty. She was a trailblazer for Hispanic performers in the United States. I think of Carmen Miranda when I … Read more
Fall is fast approaching, and it is time to order or purchase spring-flowering bulbs. The catalogs have been with us since the tulips were finishing this past spring, but I set them aside because I don’t like racing the season. This is also why I refuse to buy Halloween candy in August, even as it … Read more
Once upon a time, plant merchandisers offered only one mandevilla variety, ‘Alice Dupont’, known to botanist friends as Mandevilla x amabilis ‘Alice Dupont’. Cultivated and studied for 30 years at Longwood Gardens, home of its wealthy namesake, ‘Alice Dupont’ was officially named and introduced to the world in 1960. The original Alice and her husband, … Read more
Going away on vacation is one of the pleasures of summer and should be savored by those who are able to take time away from the day-to-day routine. Of course, it also means leaving your garden behind. Unless you are wealthy and have someone to tend the beds, borders and containers while you are away, … Read more
