As an amateur gardener, my goal extends beyond mere cultivation. As a dedicated plant collector—peonies being a particular favorite among many—I find immense fascination in understanding the botanical families that define and connect my plants. In this blog post, I will introduce the intricate relationships that bind ornamental and edible

Welcome back, peony enthusiasts! More Itoh peonies from my garden! If you’re captivated by the mesmerizing beauty of Itoh peonies, you’re in for a delightful treat. I have previously explored the splendor of these horticultural marvels—aptly dubbed the best of two worlds, combining the hardiness of herbaceous peonies with the

As the holiday season approaches, and the air becomes filled with the scent of pine and cinnamon, many of us embark on the joyful tradition of adorning our homes with festive decor. For me, these annual preparations have turned into something truly special over the past eight years. It’s a

Celadon pottery is not just an art form; it’s a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region where it is crafted, be it in China or, in this case, Thailand. The delicate green glaze, achieved through meticulous firing techniques, has been perfected over generations. It’s a tradition that

The world of botany is a rich tapestry woven with the threads of exploration, discovery, and the fascinating stories of the individuals who dedicated their lives to understanding the plant kingdom. One intriguing aspect of this botanical journey is the association of names with genus and species. Each plant bears

With their vibrant colors and elegant forms, the tulips have captivated people for centuries and their enduring appeal continues to make them cherished spring blooms. Tulips have evolved from the humble origins of the genus Tulipa in Central Asia to the more than 3,000 registered cultivars available, each with its

Eremurus, also called foxtail lilies, are clump-forming perennials native to the arid grasslands of Afghanistan and Iran. In their natural habitat, they thrive in rocky slopes and meadows, making it a sight to behold amidst the rugged landscape. They are relatively cold tolerant if grown in very well-drained soil and

The colorful world of fall foliage in peonies is worth discovering while you are preparing them for the upcoming winter. As summer fades and the air turns crisper, nature’s paintbrush transforms the landscape in my area into a mesmerizing spectacle of reds, oranges, and yellows. While many associate these vibrant

Two years ago, I noticed a strange mottling on the leaves of one of my cherished hostas. Last year, it became worrisome and I started asking myself: could it be infected with HVX? If you’re a shade gardener who grows hostas, it’s important to be aware of the HVX virus.

What if I told you that you can enjoy the beauty of bearded irises not just once, but multiple times a year? Thanks to reblooming bearded irises, a remarkable subset of this beloved plant species, this is entirely possible. In my USDA Hardiness Zone 5, where winter temperatures can be

Sometimes, the most wonderful things in life come as unexpected gifts. Such was the case when a dear friend surprised me two years ago with a swamp rose-mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos), also called hardy hibiscus. What followed was a delightful journey of rediscovery and wonder, especially considering that I had tried

Hydrangea paniculata, commonly called panicle hydrangea, offers a myriad of cultivars awaiting discovery – each boasting its own unique allure and personality. Gardening enthusiasts, myself included, know that certain plants have an uncanny ability to transform ordinary landscapes into breathtaking havens of beauty. Among these floral enchantments of late summer,

Eucomis comosa, also known as the pineapple lily or the pineapple flower, is a stunning plant native to Southern Africa with a tropical flair. The common name of Eucomis comosa comes from the resemblance of its floral stem during development to a pineapple when it is in bloom. The pineapple

To demonstrate the importance of the vase in which I place a floral arrangement, I crafted a zinnia and sunflower arrangement and showcased it in three different containers. The vibe or mood that can be created with a container for a floral arrangement largely depends on the characteristics of the

The rope-like tassels in coral, lime-green, bronze, and red of cascading amaranths sure make a statement in my arrangements. Receiving numerous inquiries whenever I showcase them in my Instagram posts, I’ve made the decision to write a dedicated blog post about them, from growing to harvesting and styling them. When