From the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in 600 BC to Boston ferns suspended in baskets more recently, plants have been given an elevated status by gardeners for years. Moss balls, taking inspiration from the Japanese aesthetic of minimalism, offer a different, distinctive take on hanging plants. Also called Japanese string art, or kokedama, the project comprises a plant encased … [Read more...] about How to make kokedama
herbs
How to grow and brew herbal teas
The difference between serving tea made from herbs you grow yourself and herb tea from a bag “is like the difference between serving your guests a good vintage wine instead of some cheap plonk,” says Conrad Richter, president of Richters Herbs in Goodwood, Ont. “Herbal teas packed in bags are usually powdered,” he explains, so they’re “almost never as flavourful as whole … [Read more...] about How to grow and brew herbal teas
A visit to the Chelsea Physic Garden
The walled Chelsea Physic Garden in London is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon, regardless of your gardening inclinations. While sitting on a bench, soaking up a tiny bit of sunshine and the herby fragrances floating by, one of my seat mates turned to ask if I visited often. "No, this is my first visit - and you?" I asked. "Oh, no! We're not gardeners, but we come every … [Read more...] about A visit to the Chelsea Physic Garden
6 secrets to abundance in the edible garden
Barbecues, salads and impromptu snacking are among the many joys of summer — and what’s better than grabbing what you need from your very own garden? But in the hot, hazy heat of July and August, do we really want to work hard at it? I think not. Given the choice of choosing something tough to grow or super simple, I’ll recommend the lazier route every time. Here are some … [Read more...] about 6 secrets to abundance in the edible garden
Tips for flower arrangements from your garden
“Pink and white carnations — one desires so much more than that.” As Wallace Stevens puts it in “The Poems of our Climate,” sometimes we want more than just carnations. Beyond the usual roses and peonies, there are many plants in our gardens that make gorgeous arrangements. I recently had some fun walking around my garden, choosing unconventional plants — no carnations — to … [Read more...] about Tips for flower arrangements from your garden
