Tall, beautiful dahlias are the stars of the late summer garden, but their large blooms and sturdy stems often need a little extra help to stay upright. Learning how to support dahlias before they begin flowering can prevent broken stems, wind damage, and drooping plants. As a long-time dahlia grower (for nearly 30 years) in … Read more
If you’ve been following my adventures on our small Pacific Northwest farm, you know my freezer is always overflowing with berries and rhubarb. I’m constantly (for decades) on a quest to find delicious ways to use up our garden bounty, and honestly, some of the best easy fruity summer desserts I’ve ever made have started … Read more
Few flowers stop people in their tracks quite like peonies. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush peonies garden overflowing with blooms, hoping to try growing peonies for the first time, or finally ready to learn how to care for peonies the right way, you’ve come to the right place. Peonies are reliable bloomers in my … Read more
If you’re tired of waking up to chewed leaves and damaged seedlings, learning about controlling slugs can make a huge difference in your garden. After gardening for over 30 years in a Pacific Northwest USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8b garden, I’ve used a wide variety of slug control strategies. From simple garden pest control methods … Read more
Planning your cucumber patch this season? Whether you are searching for the best cucumber companion plants, creative cucumber planting ideas, or simple vegetable garden ideas for a thriving backyard harvest, companion planting can make a big difference. From helpful herbs and flowers to smart garden companion planting strategies, learning what to plant next to cucumbers … Read more
Looking for fresh hat tea party ideas to make your next gathering unforgettable? Whether you’re planning tea party birthday ideas for adults, a whimsical tea party, or a fancy tea party filled with charm, the right mix of tea party fashion and tea party style can set the tone. As an Etsy hat shop owner … Read more
Turn any gathering into a memorable, hands-on experience with a DIY flower bar that’s as beautiful as it is fun. From creative bloom bar ideas to an eye-catching diy flower stand display, this guide will walk you through a stunning flower bar set up that guests will love. Whether you’re planning a diy bloom bar, … Read more
Curious about fennel companion plants and how they fit into your veggie garden? Whether you’re just starting out with growing fennel or already love adding this aromatic fennel plant to your edible garden, understanding what fennel is and how it interacts with nearby crops can make all the difference. The truth is, fennel does not … Read more
If you’re planning an Oregon road trip this summer, don’t miss the chance to explore the best things to do in Newport, Oregon while enjoying the stunning Oregon Coast aesthetic. I share my decades of travel experience to help you make the most of an Oregon road trip to this charming coastal town. From charming … Read more
Bright, cheerful, and endlessly useful, the calendula flower deserves a starring role in any garden. Known botanically as Calendula officinalis, this sunny bloom pairs beautifully with a wide range of calendula companion plants, helping your garden thrive while adding a touch of wildflower charm. I first planted calendula years ago in our USDA Plant Hardiness … Read more