Tag Archives: landscape

One Person’s Trash is Another Person’s Garden

Last week I put dinner in the oven, and then I went outside to see if my husband needed any help with the yard work. I found him creating a “burn” pile that consisted of about a quarter of a large forsythia bush that was in our backyard. He just wanted the thing gone. It was pretty overgrown, and he wanted a clear slate to work with for some future new landscaping. I grabbed my gloves and the clippers and got to work decimating the remaining foliage, thinking how it was such as waste. But one of the nice things … Continue reading →

How to Garden in a Bad Economy 2

If you are gardening the same old way you always have, you might want to think about this a bit. New strategies, techniques and planning may work better in our current economic reality. I’ve already shared with you some ideas for gardening in a bad economy. If you missed that post, click here: How to Garden in a Bad Economy. Now, let’s talk a little more about this. One of the trends that seems to be changing in gardening in the response to the economy is the planting of more perennials. Better Homes & Gardens mentioned this summer that there … Continue reading →

Pulling Out the Vinca

The ground cover at the front of our house is a mess. That is because I have been attacking it at the suggestion of my husband. You see, part of the ground cover is a lush covering of pacasandra. This pachysandra is in areas around our yard. To the right of the house as you are looking at it, the pachysandra is well established and looks great. To the far left of the house, the pacasandra also looks well. But in between, we have a problem. Vinca, another nice ground cover has started to take over, choking out the pachysandra … Continue reading →

Favorite Perennials: Hostas

Also see: Picking Perennials Favorite Perennials: Daylilies Favorite Perennials: Lambs’ Ear I admit that when I first saw Hostas growing happily in many a New England yard I did not care at all for them. Oh they looked fine for a while, the wide bushy plants that were pretty and leafy. But then, there was the long flower stalks that emerged from the plants, and there was just something about those stalks that didn’t appeal to me. Perhaps it is become they remind me too much of potato eyes, a thing that irrationally fears and repulses me. Since my first … Continue reading →

Tips on Taking Landscape Shots

It stands to reason that if you’re visiting a legendary landmark (e.g. the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, etc.) you’re going to want to photograph it for prosperity sake. However, capturing the grandeur of natural wonders can be a challenge. It’s happened to me. From seascapes to rolling hills and massive mountain ranges—-the vast open spaces of each leaves me breathless, but trying to capture it on film in order to elicit the same response from others is easier said than done. I have found that in most cases landscape photos leave the viewer wondering just how sprawling these locations really … Continue reading →

What is a Tablescape?

The term tablescape is often used interchangeably with terms like tabletop arrangement or centerpiece. However, a true tablescape is actually a bit more complex. While tablescapes often adorn the center of the table, they are more than centerpieces. They are design plans, an overall look that addresses the entire table or surface as well as its surroundings. Every item is chosen specifically to complement not only other items on the table but also other elements of the space. A tablescape should also incorporate elements of the season or occasion. A breathtaking tablescape display can set the mood for the entire … Continue reading →