Native Gardens
I had a great time at the Arena Stage last weekend seeing Native Gardens, their current play. It was the perfect event to attend with some designer friends. I spent the whole play thinking of simple compromises for the two couples, and I also really wanted to see the left garden cleaned up! They never did sweep up the debris, but there was a happy ending nonetheless.
Growing Fall Veggies
Well, I’ve eaten thousands of cherry tomatoes this summer, not to mention a few jalapeƱo peppers and cucumbers. Now I’m taking advantage of the Mid-Atlantic fall weather to grow some lettuce, spinach, beets, Swiss Chard, and scallions before a hard frost hits us. I figure I’ve got a couple months of salads to enjoy. I should have started a few weeks earlier, but I’m still feeling good about it!
What’s in your garden?
It’s Fall Planting Time!
It’s fall planting time, and the garden centers are bursting with wonderful trees and shrubs. On top of that, I just received my Colorblends catalog in the mail yesterday. Colorblends is my favorite place to order bulbs, and I’ve had great success with all of the items I’ve ordered from them. They will ship to you at the appropriate planting time, so you don’t have to worry about putting them in the ground too early. Important note- they do sell out of the most popular items, so if you see something you really love, don’t hesitate to get your order in!
Charleston, SC for Landscape Inspiration
I’m always looking at the ground, and I’m constantly amazed at what I see there. When I see a driveway like this, I’m reminding that if you can imagine it and articulate your vision clearly, someone can build it for you. This is exactly the kind of thing that makes me want to grab a pencil and a pad of paper and start doodling.
Susanna Farm Nursery Visit
If you’re looking for specimen trees, Susanna Farm Nursery is a great destination. It feels more like an arboretum than a trade nursery, and you can easily spend an hour or two strolling through the grounds. I was looking for some good-sized maples to use as accents in a client’s back garden, but I also came across some wonderful willow standards for another project. Well worth the trip for the beauty and inspiration and just a relaxing afternoon out.
Veggie Report
My tomatoes are certainly thriving. As always, my favorites are the Sungold variety. They are so sweet and perfectly bite-sized. I was worried about critters getting to them when the plants were small, but we’re well past that now. However, I do see evidence of my chipmunks having a little snack most mornings.They don’t seem to like the skin much. I wish I could catch one in the act- just to take a photo, of course.
LaDew Topiary Gardens
I’m so glad I finally made it to LaDew Gardens. I’m seeing so many new things this summer. This building is now the little cafe and artist studio area. Highlights of the garden are, of course, the topiaries, but also a wonderful butterfly pavilion and so many different garden rooms. The house tour was also so interesting, thanks to their great volunteers. Definitely a trip worth making.
Finally Made it to Bloedel Reserve
I finally made it to the Bloedel Reserve. We had a wonderful time walking the paths and enjoying the quiet. There are no signs or plant labels to read- one simply wanders through. It was a truly relaxing experience and I would gladly go back. Anyone who lives locally can buy an annual pass and walk the grounds as a regular activity. Delightful.