Autumn Snow
November is still autumn, especially in our era of climate change, where the seasons seem pushed back a month. I still have flowers blooming. And then, the first real snow arrives.
October Flowers
It seems that many people think the gardening season is over when kids go back to school in late August. Well, other than those balls of mums polka-dotting grocery stores, malls, and yards. Not so! There are many plants still abloom!
Oudolf Magic in Detroit
I jumped on the opportunity to visit the Oudolf Garden Detroit in person at the Perennial Plant Association’s Fall Symposium on Belle Isle. What a treat! September is the perfect time to visit this deeply moving love letter of a garden.
Chasing Waterfalls
I had a coworker ask “Why Michigan?” when I told her where we were going on vacation. Bless her, she splits her time between Vermont and Portugal. The Midwest is a foreign country. For me, vacation involves rocks, trees, and water and the UP has all in abundance.
A Grand Garden Indeed
If you’ve spent some time on this site, you’ve probably noticed that I teach at The Morton Arboretum. I also volunteer, so I’m there quite a bit. It has been a pleasure to watch their new Grand Garden grow into itself.
Oh, My, Mantis!
The yard is a pretty lively place. I’m beginning to learn my wasp and bee species (if only they would hold still!). There are butterflies, ants, moths, true bugs, caterpillars, flies, and lots more living their best little lives. My garden is habitat.
A Cacophony of Cicadas
They’re HEEEEERRRRRRREEEEE! The periodical cicadas have arrived and we are knee-deep in all three species. This is the benefit of mature trees - COOL BUGS!
Elegance of White Flowers
My most popular talk for garden clubs is one on evening gardens. I touch on the history and design of gardens meant to be enjoyed by moonlight. It’s very romantic (and fun!).
It’s a Tulip Festival Around Here
Ah, spring! April showers and warmer temps have blessed us with bouquets of spring bulbs, especially tulips.
A Circus of Orchids
Each year I meet an old friend to go to the orchid show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. We wander the lush landscapes and have a nice hike before finding lunch. Is there a better way to spend a Sunday in March?