The Pacific Northwest is home to the native blue orchard mason bees. Often mistaken for houseflies due to their blue-green, iridescent bodies, these solitary bees are distinct from social bees because each female independently lays her own eggs, finds her own nest and gathers her own food. With 90% of bee species being solitary, these […]
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 inGarden
The European Country-House Garden of Liz Robinson
In the Fort Ward district of Bainbridge Island is a garden filled with history. In 1973, a property became available that had once been a Fort Ward warehouse. Liz Robinson and her husband, Peter, were living in a farmhouse they had renovated on the island. Their children were now adults. Presented with this opportunity and […]
Posted inGarden
A New Hydrangea in Town
I’m so excited to tell you about this beautiful shrub named Eclipse Big Leaf Hydrangea. The leaves are dark purple — almost black, and have a sheen like satin. They stay dark all season long, year after year. The blooms are a spectacular — cranberry or amethyst color — providing dramatic contrast to the dark […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
These 10 Edible Flowers Are Beneficial for Your Health
Florals are a feast for the eyes, brightening up your day instantly. However, they can also be a feast for your body as well. The health benefits of edible flowers deserve so much more recognition. It’s nature’s gift, and it’s essential to take advantage of it. Are There Actually Edible Flowers? Before diving into the […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Fall Planting Provides Months of Continuous Spring Color
Welcome spring and create continuous color for several months with a collection of spring-flowering bulbs. After planting in the fall, you’ll enjoy an array of flower colors that combine nicely with other spring-flowering trees, shrubs and flowers. Start the season with early-blooming snowdrops. As winter fades, watch for the dangling white flowers on 6- to […]
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Kitsap Farm Tour 2024
The 2nd Annual Kitsap Farm Tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11. This is an opportunity for you to visit 11 farms across Kitsap County in a one-day, self-guided tour. The farms feature family-friendly activities, animal experiences and local products for purchase. Many will also offer food and snacks for […]
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The Luscious Gardens of Therry Frey and Michael Harrison
Therry Frey and Michael Harrison love to travel to new and old favorite places each year. But the rest of the time, they spend hours out in their gardens, which are best described as luscious. Seven years ago, this well-traveled couple moved to their Keyport home, located on a steep 2.5 acres that slope down […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
5 Reasons Your Hydrangea May Not Be Producing Flowers
Winter can sometimes spell doom for hydrangeas across much of the United States, but not so this year. Winter was mild, with record-breaking warm temperatures in the northeast, where gardeners regularly experience angst about whether their big leaf and mountain hydrangeas will flower. The other factor that can thwart the flowering cycle is wild temperature […]
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A Garden Dressed for a Party
In the Suquamish garden of Cherry and Terry Jarvis, landscaper Teri Cole has taken garden design to a new level. Several levels, in fact. Cole’s canvas is a lovely piece of high-bank waterfront that makes its way down — one broad step at a time — from the street to the beach. Along the way, […]