Vacation Dilemma

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

Petunia Triumph

Last week my garden was part of a local charity garden tour. The weather for the two- day event was perfect, with warm temperatures and low humidity. On the first day, a Friday, the crowd was a steady stream of retirees in straw hats. On the Saturday the crowd was a mix of all kinds … Read more

Perfect Imperfection

It is axiomatic among gardeners that the garden is always at its best either the week before or the week after visitors stop by.  “You should have seen it last week,” you say regretfully while looking at the desiccated remains of your formerly sumptuous double daffodils.  “Wait until next week,” you mutter, as you point … Read more

Hidden Jewels

It has been a wet summer in my region and plants are lush and green.  Lurking everywhere among that lushness is poison ivy, which is having a banner year. And, if that news is not enough to make you itchy, consider mosquitos, which also thrive in rainy, humid summer weather.  The pesky insects, with their … Read more