Musings on horticultural therapy and the soothing effects of plants and nature
The American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens ‘Amethyst Falls’) is blooming in spectacular fashion at @annsplaceinc. We planted this many years ago as part of a corporate donation, which funded the building of this arbor and a meditative labyrinth below our parking lot. Growth in the beginning was spotty as none of the local deer in the […]
The lovely purple flower and bright orange stigma of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) thrills nature lovers and cooks each Fall upon their emergence. But now, as the corm has gone dormant, I am tasked with the long delayed need to divide and propagate. Years ago to protect these rare and valuable corms, I created […]
The fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is one of my favorites natives. This slow-growing understory tree delivers a spectacular lacy flower that appears to drip off the tree. Approaching it I can’t help but be intoxicated by its sweet, honeysuckle-like scent. By its appearance, it is obvious why one of its names is old-man’s beard.
Last Fall, my brother Craig gave me a large slab of cottonwood (Populus) that I have finally had the chance to turn into a bench for the garden. It sat all Winter in the shed curing and looked great with few cracks upon inspection. I get my belt and orbital sanders (and lots of sandpaper) […]
It’s flower Friday again! We can’t keep up with all the new blooms that emerge every week in the garden so here are the top ones. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): This puffball of a flower is not only lovely but it has a scent with a big kick to it. Rhododendron: I have no idea of […]
Nearly 20 clients from @annsplaceinc attended the two classes on herbs at my house. Because my budget is tight and I was unsure of sources, I grew oregano (Origanum vulgare), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), basil (Ocimum basilicum), and stevia from seeds in April to cover my bases. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) I got from my usual supplier, […]
Great news for the beginning of June. First I am delighted to announce the three winners of my book, A Therapist’s Garden, from last week’s contest. They are: @ninjahikernc @brian_pickard @bluespringscottage Congrats and I will be sending autographed copies out to each later this week. But also A Therapist’s Garden has been announced as the […]