People argue perpetually about certain words, among them “climate change” and “sustainability”. In a time of turmoil in the world—no matter how you characterize that turmoil—we need peace in the garden. So I propose we think about an idea that is relatively uncontroversial, has stood the test of time, and is useful in just about … Read more
It is certainly possible to have too much of a good thing. My relationship with carrot cake comes immediately to mind. Right now I am in the same situation with the bearded iris, sometimes known as Iris x germanica, in my garden. Many years ago, when my current garden was just getting off the ground, … Read more
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches every year, people start to talk about “the wearing of the green”. Individuals who eschew green clothing and accessories 364 days a year, paw through drawers and closets to find green apparel or jewelry to wear in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. They also eat the green, as … Read more
Summer is here, but many of us are still locked in the clutches of spring. Why? Because the remnants of the swell garden party that was the spring growing season are still with us. Think of all the flashy “guests” at that party—roses, clematis, peonies and iris of all sorts. They thrilled us all, … Read more
The other day I received a rather surprising email from the owner of one of my favorite online/mail order nurseries. I expected that it would be like many that I have gotten recently, using words like “in these troubling times”, “in this situation”, or “as we face an uncertain future.” I also expected that after … Read more
