Even though we are in the winter months, shrubs, plants and trees come alive in January. It’s a good time to test your soil for missing nutrients and then fertilize and amend accordingly. Inventory your garden seeds well before you start planting them and check to be sure they are for the winter month plantings. […]
flowers
Posted inPeople & Places
Recharge with a Day or Few Away
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Sunday, a weekend away is the perfect recipe for a romantic getaway. Or connect with your gal pals with a fun Galantine’s Day away celebration. A few of these options have spa services and are close to many outdoor activities to soak in all that West Sound has to […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Five Ways to Enjoy Salad Greens
Salads have been a raw and healthy staple since ancient Greece (Greek salad, anyone?), yet many people grow bored of the same tired salad bowl over and over. While it’s true you can spice up your ordinary salad by adding fresh fruits, vegetables and dressings, you can also mix up the types of greens you’re […]
Posted inGarden
Rhododendrons, Here We Come
The new year is an exciting time for Northwest rhododendron fans — it marks the beginning of the flowering season for these popular, well-loved shrubs. Even non-gardeners can recognize rhododendrons. What comes to mind when thinking about a rhododendron? For many people, it’s a large truss comprised of many blossoms. The evergreen leaves will be […]
Posted inGarden
A Garden of Exceptional Skill and Imagination
The mystical, magical garden created by Arlene and Bill West inspires awe and an explosion of ideas in the minds of all who visit. Solutions for gardening in “next-to-impossible” places, intermingled with expressive, original and imaginative garden art could fill a book. Here is their story. When Arlene married Bill about 20 years ago, the […]
Posted inAt Home
‘Backyarding’ Trends to Watch in 2022
“Backyarding,” the trend to move indoor activities outdoors that was made popular during the pandemic, is here to stay and will continue to expand this year, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, an environmental education and stewardship program that encourages outdoor living and caring for green spaces. “Backyarding is a way of life now,” says Kris […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Take a Color-Themed Approach for More Attractive Arrangements
Growing dahlias is a must for anyone who loves cutting and arranging flowers. But there are hundreds of beautiful dahlia varieties to choose from and that can be overwhelming. To make the selection process easier, choose compatible colors that will look good together in the garden and in arrangements. The combination of peach and burgundy […]
Posted inGarden
Plants Deer Don’t Eat (The World’s Shortest List)
She tiptoed across my yard on slender legs. Pausing demurely, she batted her big, doe eyes at me. Such a pretty thing. Such grace. I wanted to be her friend. “Have an apple,” I said, and shook the tree until apples rained down. She chose the nearest fruit and as I walked away, I heard […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
10 Gardening Gaffes to Avoid
What’s the difference between a new gardener and an experienced one? The experienced gardener has killed way more plants, the saying goes. That truism speaks to the fact that gardening is a highly trial-and-error venture — and one where some plants are just going to struggle and die no matter what you do. The good […]