The Read I just finished reading 'American Grown' by Michelle Obama and it is a fascinating account of the garden and landscape evolution at the White House. From the very first vegetable garden installed by John Adams, our second president, the book mentions a variety of plantings and gardens until it ended up being a hodgepodge of styles …
Magical Mystery Tour – Ladew Topiary Gardens
I feel fortunate that I live just 6 or 7 miles from one of the most innovative and beautiful public gardens in the United States, right here in Monkton, MD, called Ladew Topiary Gardens. I first saw these whimsical and  enchanting gardens about 25 years ago that were created by, Harvey S. Ladew, a traveler, fox-hunter, …
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The Great Sunflower Project – The Backyard Bee Count
The Great Bee Count Within the past couple of years, you might have heard that bees are in trouble, growing scarcer, and suffering from a mysterious ailment called Colony Collapse Disorder, or CCD. A variety of culprits have been fingered in causing this syndrome, including pesticide use, parasites, and diseases. To study bees, scientists decided …
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Innovative Garden Design of a Small Property
The Challenge What do you do when you move from a large beautifully landscaped property that is overflowing with texture and color, to a retirement community that is populated with yews and swaths of mint? Oh, and did I mention overrun with deer? That was the tall order that I as the landscape designer had …
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Transforming a Patio – An Outdoor Living Space That Looks Like Home
The Challenge I was asked to decorate the bluestone patio space for the Baltimore Symphony's Decorator Show House this spring. Normally I 'decorate' gardens, not patios, but I was up to the challenge!  The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra chooses a house every year that is usually vacant and/or for sale, and invites interior and exterior decorators to design their …
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Bear Update in Vermont
Bear climbing up deck to get to beehiveBears are on the rampage in Vermont! My brother-in-law had a recent bear incident where a black bear knocked over a hive in a nearby field. He came back for more, but much closer to the house. He obviously has no fear and looks like he is on …
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Danger – Poison in the garden!
If you ever venture to Montreal, be sure to visit one of the most interesting botanical gardens in the world that includes unique themed gardens. One of the more unusual gardens was the poisonous plants area surrounded by a high wooden fence with a very noticeable danger sign. You have probably heard one of these sayings: Raggy rope, …
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Containers With Pizazz ! Not Your Ordinary Container!
Finesse With Containers Updated April, 2016 I create containers for clients all the time and am always looking for inspiration to move away from the "geraniums with spike and trailer" school of thought. With a little more planning and shopping, you can come up with a showplace masterpiece with WOW impact. For pollinator containers, go to …
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Rain Barrel Eye Candy
Join the Trend It seems like everyone these days is thinking about a rain barrel or has already installed at least one at their home. Some are very plain and utilitarian, while others have been decorated to complement the home. If you want to join the trend, here are simple pointers on getting you started. …
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