Years ago, when the Perennial Plant Association named Baptisia australis (aso known as wild false indigo) their plant of the year (in 2010), I promptly bought five and planted them in my garden. They were new-to-me at the time and they were lauded for being low maintenance and long lived. Perfect. Then, the next spring, I accidentally weeded out every single one […]

Sedge lawns are a smart environmental alternative to traditional lawns.  While traditional lawns are resource intensive (i.e., mowing, fertilizing, and watering above rainfall levels are typically required), sedge lawns are often less taxing. Undergoing a lawn conversion from turf grass to a native meadow grass, like sedges, will increase biodiversity, help the native ecosystem, and […]

Red twig dogwood (scientifically known as Cornus sericea) is a stunning deciduous and North American native shrub that can add a burst of color to any landscape. With its vibrant red bark that intensifies in the winter, this plant is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike. But there’s more to this shrub than […]

Guests are usually surprised when I tell them that our willow arbor only cost $35. Back in 2005, I spent $8 plus shipping for four hybrid willows…

As professional gardeners its our job to know where to find the best plants. Online Nursery plants are increasingly the best places to get the the best and most unique things growing in our gardens. I thought I would take you inside my design notebook. I want to give you a glimpse of where we […]

Have you ever tried to trim a spiral topiary?  If you are following existing lines, it usually isn’t too tricky but if you are aiming to turn a cone into a spiral, it can quickly go off the rails. Topiary trimming is complex and an over zealous Edward Scissorhands inspired gardener can easily trim too […]

As a landscape designer with a penchant for plants, I’ve always been drawn to the diverse and delightful genus of Stachys. Commonly known as Lamb’s Ear, this group of perennials offers not only a tactile treat for your garden but a wide range of unique varieties, each with its own charm.  As a kid – […]

Whenever anyone asks what is my favorite plant, of course, I can never answer. I usually have at least 3 or 4 plants that are my favorite on any given day. This could include the first plant I come across in the garden and the ones I read about at night.  If push came to […]

I’ve been flirting with Amsonia for years. I can’t remember where we were the first time it caught my eye. It might have been a moment in a book or a magazine, but those ethereal mounds of yellow needle-like leaves with a texture like no other were definitely giving me the ‘come hither’ look.  I […]