Silver and grey-leaved plants are needed in almost any garden because they add a touch of soothing coolness to the bright summer colors. The intense yellow, scarlet and magenta found in summer gardens are strong colors that look best when tempered with silver and grey. At the same time, the colors of blue and purple [...]

 The edge of your planting bed says a lot about your garden. From a design perspective the edge even determines the style of the garden. A linear or straight edge is formal, while a curving edge is informal.  The edge also defines the space by outlining the shape of the lawn, path or patio.  A [...]

 Here in the Pacific Northwest our mild climate allows us to grow many fine spring flowering and summer fruiting trees. Although not often planted, and not nearly as popular as the flowering cherry tree, the flowering crab apple provides both spring flowers and persistent ornamental fruit into winter.  In full bloom, flowering crab apple offers [...]

In the last couple weeks the news carries stories on erosion, landslides, and mud slides all around the world, not just here in the PNW.  Yet, a walk along beaches, in ravines, or in the mountains, I see many steep slopes that show no signs of erosion. What is the difference between a stable slope [...]

In winter many gardeners retreat to their armchairs with plant catalogs in hand to escape the grey winter landscape. We plan for spring, and day dream about daffodils, crocus, and tulips – the harbingers of spring.  A  close look at the winter landscape reveals a subtle beauty all its own. Especially if it includes deciduous [...]