If there was a beauty contest for flowering shrubs, surely the hydrangea would come in first place. In recent years, many new hydrangeas have appeared in garden centers. Breeders have been busy developing and introducing new varieties, especially those of the “panicle” hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata). They are named for their upright cone-shaped flowers. Panicle hydrangeas make […]
Month: July 2018
Garden Ornaments
A garden can have the best plants, the most pristine paths and a fabulous layout, but something may still be missing. Garden ornaments—from benches and fountains to sundials, mobiles and sculpture—are the elements that complete a setting and reflect the owner’s style. “Think of your outdoor spaces as garden rooms—places you move through just as […]
Designing a Garden for Entertaining
Who doesn’t love an outdoor party during summer? A well-designed garden can be the perfect space to host a celebration, whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion or a casual get-together with friends and neighbors. A garden should feel comfortable and be safe to use not only during the day, but at night since many […]
Water Features
Liquid Assets Earth. Fire. Wind. Water. Our ancestors were fascinated by those elements and they continue to captivate us in gardens today. Water is often an overlooked feature for residential gardens, but the sound of trickling or cascading water can be very relaxing. It can also mask some of the street noise in urban areas. […]