March and April are perfect months for selecting and planting woody shrubs and trees. This year, consider adding plants to feed and shelter wildlife, especially birds and pollinators. Choose from both evergreen and deciduous plants. Evergreen plants provide shelter and nesting areas throughout … read more

As it gets chilly and the temps drop, I always wish for a beautiful snowfall, which is so good for the garden. A blanket of snow insulates the plants and allows a slow and deep watering as it melts away. As my garden … read more

Orchidaceae, the Orchid family, is a diverse group of flowering plants belonging to the Liliopsida class. Found on every continent except Antarctica, orchids are one of the largest families of flowering plants. With more than 28,000 species, there are more orchids on the … read more

There are over 60,000 onsite sewage systems (OSS) in Kitsap County. How should you landscape and maintain them? What Is an OSS? An OSS has a septic tank where effluent (i.e., wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms) enters the tank, solids settle … read more

  Brr, it’s cold outside. Take heart — the days are becoming longer and the winter flower phenomenon is hellebore season, brought to you by the genus Helleborus. Commonly called hellebores, Oriental hellebores, Lenten rose or Christmas rose, whatever you call them, they … read more

Growing beautiful dahlias is easier than you think. Proper planting and care will result in an abundance of beautiful blooms for you to enjoy in your garden and summer bouquets. Use these strategies to boost your dahlia growing success. Start Early for a … read more

With the holidays here, everyone wants to find the perfect gift. A thoughtful gift that resonates with the recipient is a wonderful way to show that you care. But what do you about those friends and family members whose interests you don’t understand? … read more

Give a gift that helps your favorite gardeners enjoy the flavors of their garden well past the end of the growing season. Both new and experienced gardeners often spend their gardening budget on plants and seeds, leaving little or none to invest in … read more

The view from the farmhouse porch instills a sense of peace and tranquility, as the ever-changing light signals the progression of seasons — and only the voices of birds flitting in and out of gardens and over the flood plain below break the … read more