Carolyn Thompson, the owner of Willow & Mabel Garden Co., put together a small function that was both a social gathering and an event on hosting called Cake & Tablescapes. “It was a small, intimate event,” she says. Thompson advertised it to her email subscribers, who rapidly signed up within 24 hours. She barely had […]
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 West Sound Magazine each issue — subscribe to the print version today to see all of what we have to offer!
Posted inGardeners Corner
How to Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes When Growing Grains
Are your gardening efforts limited to flowers, grass, fruits and vegetables? Grains are another exciting plant to cultivate. Knowing which grains to grow in the garden can reward your efforts with a successful, verdant crop. The trick is knowing what mistakes to avoid that could ruin your harvest. It’s time to go “with” the grain. […]
Posted inGarden
A Gardening ‘Gold Mine’ in Poulsbo
For three decades, Sam Rader has been transforming 5 acres of woodland in Poulsbo. By combining the concepts of an arboretum, focusing on trees and a botanic garden and emphasizing education and display, he has created a type of gold mine. A wide variety of plants have been utilized, including many unusual and uncommon species, […]
Posted inGarden
West Sound’s Wonderful Winter Warbler
For many, a West Sound winter is a dreary time of year. Trees are devoid of leaves and flowers aren’t blooming. It’s cold, cloudy and often rainy. There is no perceived reason to venture outdoors. Just get cozy with a hot beverage and wait until spring to go outside. Unless you’re a birder. Winter brings […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Prevent Rabbit Damage in Your Landscape
Rabbits are year-round and frequent visitors to gardens and landscapes. As children, we read about and adored these furry critters. This love of rabbits often fades as we grow older and experience damage to our gardens and landscapes. Employing various management strategies allows us to coexist with these cute yet voracious members of our community. […]
Posted inGarden
Sprawling Gardens for Year-Round Enjoyment
At the end of a short road in Indianola there is an extremely charming and inviting garden created by Jeanne Simmons and Tony Bartling. They have even encouraged and worked with their neighbors to turn their small neighborhood into a little piece of heaven and sharing. Simmons and Bartling met in a ballroom dancing class. […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Colorful Houseplants for Lower Light Locations
Take your indoor garden to the next level. Include some colorful houseplants for some added interest throughout the year. Even those with low to moderate light in their homes can boost the color of their indoor gardens. Philodendron has long been a favorite houseplant for low-light situations. Update your collection with the bright chartreuse leaves […]
Posted inGarden
Watching for Wandering Wigeons
Birders love a good chase. Not in the literal sense, but in going to a selected spot with the optics and waiting patiently for a particular bird to appear. Birds that have wandered out of their typical range are known as rare birds or rarities. Sometimes they fly in from across the country. Others have […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Eco-Friendly Landscaping vs. Gardening: What’s the Difference?
As concerns about climate change and environmental conservation grow, many people look for ways to make their outdoor spaces more sustainable. Eco-friendly landscaping and gardening are two popular strategies. While these practices share similar goals, their approaches vary. Knowing the difference between the two can help you plan a space that satisfies your aesthetic goals […]