The Garden

Many interesting and delightful gardens abound in our area — how fun to glimpse into a gardener’s back yard (or even front yard). Enjoy gardens from Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Bremerton, Central Kitsap, and the North end of Kitsap including Bainbridge Island. These articles are only a sample of what we have in WestSound Magazine each issue — subscribe to the print version today to see all of what we have to offer!

A wilting, newly planted viburnum. New plants can dry out quickly.
Water and Wilting Plants

To Water or Not to Water?

Wilting leaves. Sooner or later, everyone who gardens — from just a single house plant to a grand vegetable patch — will encounter a droopy plant. The remedy is a universally known response: Water the plant. Pour some water on it or set … read more

The Gardens of Sam and Debi Johnson

A Forest for the Grandkids

The Gardens of Sam and Debi Johnson

“We kind of built this whole place around the grandkids,” said Sam Johnson, speaking about the 30 acres of mostly forested land near Kingston that he and his wife, Debi, purchased in 2001. The Johnsons had been living in Edmonds and were both … read more

Swainson's thrush

A Walk in the Woods

Once summer settles in, bird activity throughout the West Sound region changes. The young of most species have left the nest and are exploring their world. The adults that worked to feed and raise their families are no longer guarding territories. The bird … read more

Cottage Garden

A True Cottage Garden ‘Hidden in Plain Sight’

High school sweethearts Marion and Steve Ekberg were born and raised in the Tacoma area, spending childhoods in the woods of Minter Creek and Fox Island. In 1972, they were house hunting, looking for a place to call home and raise a family, … read more

The color palette was limited to shades of gray, green and white, which contributed a serene setting away from the hustle and bustle, even in the heart of the city.

Love of Flowers Travels from Holland to the Key Peninsula

From not being able to afford flowers when she moved to the United States to having a business designing gardens large and small, Patricia Ruff has traveled far. Her love of flowers and her need to create helped her begin digging in the … read more

Bees

Our Bees are in Trouble

Bees are in trouble — in recent years, the bee population has plummeted. A compilation of problems is to blame: One or more bee diseases or parasites, such as mites; Pesticides, especially insecticides used in the wrong manner; Loss of habitat and nutritious … read more

Gig Harbor Garden Tour

A Personal Retrospective on the Gig Harbor Garden Tour

This year, the Gig Harbor Garden Tour is celebrating its 20th anniversary. During the years of my involvement with this event, I have met many generous gardeners as well as volunteers who have dedicated many hours to the tour’s success. On one of … read more

Every gardener should have at least one furry companion in the garden. Two are even better! (The author with her friends)

Gardening With Dogs

Every mutt, no matter the pedigree, has its own personality. A tiny dog can have a huge presence, self-confidence and the need for mental stimulation despite its small size. A large one may spend the happiest moments napping in a quiet spot in … read more

Bainbridge In Bloom

Bainbridge In Bloom — Masterful Musicians and Inspiring Landscapes

The Bainbridge In Bloom Garden Tour, a perennial favorite of Northwest home and garden enthusiasts, returns for its 29th year June 3-4 on Bainbridge Island. Presented by Arts & Humanities Bainbridge, Bainbridge In Bloom draws visitors from around the region and the country. … read more

Pony Up Rescue for Equines
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