The pandemic gave rise to a variety of hobbies, and one of them was houseplants. A survey of 1,250 American adults by Trees.com found that 1 in 4 plant owners started collecting houseplants as a pandemic hobby. Among this group, Gen Zers were more likely to be new to plant keeping. The study also show […]
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Posted inGarden
Beachfront Gardens
One of the joys of West Sound living is the availability of so many beachfront properties. With all the islands, inlets, coves and harbors, there are miles and miles of beachfront. Smart ecology demands that a large part of water-side property be left for natural areas and parks. In the past, many developers have harmed […]
Posted inGarden
Things to Do Now in Your Garden
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. […]
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 inAt Home
Recipe for Home-Made Spinach Ravioli
One of the easiest ways to warm up at the end of a winter day — both inside and out — is by sharing a comforting meal with loved ones. Getting your whole family to the table can be surprisingly easy when a savory dish like Cheesy Spinach Ravioli awaits. This recipe offers a kid-friendly […]
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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 […]
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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 […]