summer

Ironweed

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IRONWEED Most of us in the northeast don’t get the chance to walk along country roads in mid to late August.  If you are one of the lucky ones, you are likely to see a wild plant that looks a bit like a small thistle.  Anywhere from two to four feet tall –and often even … Read more

Fall Crocuses

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FALL CROCUSES             When the entire world is turning upside down, as it appears to be doing right now, it is essential to take a mental break and focus on the little things that provide joy and diversion.  Crocuses fall into that category.  Fall-blooming crocuses are available now from catalog vendors and garden centers.  They … Read more

Where the Buffalo Roam

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WHERE THE BUFFALO ROAM             A few years ago I was a smug gardener, secure in the knowledge that the worst wildlife problem in my garden was the groundhog.  Granted, he was as large as a beach ball, perpetually hungry and capable of digging underground routes reminiscent of the Lincoln Tunnel; but he was manageable.  … Read more

Carpeting

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CARPETING               A few weeks ago, I wrote about my ongoing study of pioneering Irish gardener and writer, William Robinson (1848-1935).  The measure of a good garden writer is the degree to which he or she inspires you to pick up a trowel and run out into your own garden.  Though much of his … Read more

Lily Envy

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LILY ENVY             “Envy” is such a nasty word.  So is “covet.”  Since I like to avoid nasty words when discussing plants, I will settle for “admire,” as in, “I admire other people’s lilies to distraction.”  With or without the euphemisms, this emotion has gotten to be a seasonal habit.  Just as I generally wake … Read more