Posts Tagged ‘grasses’
From Wilderness to Woodland (or almost)
Once upon a time there was a mess. A very icky sticky mess. Think mosquito-infested swamp type mess. Cottonwoods, chunks of concrete, asphalt, beer cans, rocks and general debris were all in the scrub. And invasive weeds of course – Japanese knotweed (foreground above) and reed canary grass to name just two. Let's just…
Read MoreEpimediums with a Twist
I'm always looking for new ways to pair old favorites. I typically combine the heart shaped leaves of Bishop's hat (Epimedium sp.) with lacy ferns and bold hostas for example. But a recent visit to the inspiring garden of Mitch Evans in Kirkland, WA showed me all sorts of exciting new possibilities to get me out of my design rut!…
Read MoreThe Grass with Multiple Personalities
A beauty or a beast? A star or a supporter? You decide. Considered invasive in many parts of the country Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima syn. Nasella tenuissima) is merely 'friendly' in Seattle area gardens. Certainly it self seeds, but it does so politely creating serendipitous plant partnerships that I wish I could claim as my design! I consider it an…
Read MoreJoin in the Foliage Fest! (& giveaway)
The past couple of weeks have been a true whirlwind since my book FINE FOLIAGE, co-authored with Christina Salwitz was launched at the 2013 Northwest Flower and Garden Show, Seattle. My first talk at the show – a demonstration style seminar called ‘Spotlight on Foliage’ was standing room only and by the end of that…
Read MoreDenver Botanic Gardens – a winter surprise
I had the opportunity to visit the Denver Botanic Gardens last week. As I pulled on thermals, several layers of fleece and my thickest socks I began to doubt my sanity! Temperatures were well below zero and I was the only person outside; other visitors were safely ensconced in the tropical steaminess of the orchid…
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