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Leaves – Life Lessons from Above

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Leaves are such a gift. We anticipate their presence in midwinter. We often take note of the buds on trees and shrubs in late winter. Watching them swell with the energy, these buds offer us a lesson in diversity. They produce leaves in all shapes, sizes, or colors, such as chartreuse, brightly colored, or variegated. Other tree and shrubs will produce blooms before the leaves. The first lesson nature teaches us is patience. Patience is shared as we anticipate what will evolve from the buds of late winter.

Leaf canopies offer our gardens a buffer from the strong sun, especially as our climate continues to evolve. Many appreciate the shade from overhead tree canopies, encouraging us to create shade gardens. A strategically placed garden room in dappled shade is akin to an outdoor living room.  As homeowners, we should consider incorporating elements that cause us to pause and experience nature. A few chairs, a loveseat, or perhaps a table to rest refreshments, nosh, or a book will add ambiance. Leaf canopies invite the breezes to waft through and create a sense of peace.

We know that as summer ends, lighting throughout the garden changes as the leaves begin to fall. Before they fall, many trees offer a kaleidoscope of color. This colorful array of leaves changes the feel of the garden as the cooler temperatures arrive. Crepe myrtles, fothergilla and oak leaf hydrangea offer some of the richer shades of the season. I look forward to the gold, rustic burgundy, and even red in my garden. It is delightful to notice colorful changes to our familiar trees, such as redbuds, oaks, and maples. The bright gold foliage of Amsonia, adds a bit of whimsy to my garden. Perennials with structure, form, and color, often demonstrate how the garden can be beautiful, even as it wanes. The second lesson leaves teach us it to appreciate fleeting moments.

As I walk my dog at the break of dawn, finding the perfect leaf of the day brings me joy. It is during this quiet time, when the day slowly reveals a fresh batch of leaves littering the landscape. There is always one leaf that glows in its near perfect color or form. Reaching down, gingerly embracing my special daily find, a leaf finds its way into my pocket. When I arrive at the Cottage, the leaf is eased between the pages of a book. Many times, I simply place it on the glass top of my curio cabinet by the front door. By the end of the week, a stack of crumpled brown leaves causes me to smile. It is then when I am reminded how quickly we move from season to season.

Do I simply discard the now crumpled brown leaves in the trash? Is there another purpose they can serve? The third lesson leaves teach us is the art of repurposing. At this time of the year many rake leaves, removing them from every inch of the landscape. Science teaches us that we should consider repurposing at least some of the leaves back into our gardens. Leaves drop from the trees above as a way of shedding the prior season’s growth. This has happened since the beginning of time. In doing so, leaves break down and feed the soil. This is the cycle of nature. Nature has always found a way to be self-sufficient. Some plant material is more prone to disease or cannot tolerate our changing climate. Other plants simply cannot survive various types of human interference. Choosing the right plants makes more sense than ever right now.

Leaves offer us so many lessons, we just need to pay attention. Simple leaves are truly life lessons we can use. Paying attention to nature is such a beautiful thing.

Fallen leaves quietly remind us to pause and savor each season.

Waiting patiently for the golden gingko leaves to fall…in due season of course.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Anemone coronaria- Strength in a Winter Bloom

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Anemone coronaria is not a common flower when one considers winter blooming plants. Intrigued with the noticeable swelling pod to this morning’s delightful bloom, I simply had to share.

My infatuation with Anemone happened when I noticed a peculiar pod in a planter sitting on the front stoop. Longing for a brief winter in anticipation of finishing a specific garden project, I began to watch this quiet metamorphosis in a forgotten pot.

Finally – much to my surprise, it slowly began a striptease of sorts. Petal by petal, this bud opened and brought a smile to my face every time I passed it by. This Anemone was a guaranteed smile anytime I could catch a glimpse of it during the daylight hours. I found myself longing for the weekends so I could see this gift from Mother Nature.

January weather is often unpredictable. If we get snow, it usually happens the third week of the month. Of course, the third week was is also the much anticipated long weekend. The weather forecast was promising what I thought would be the death of my sacred Anemone. We finally received a dose of snow. As I shoveled the front stop, my sacred bloom was no longer visible.

If the bloom did not survive the snow, it would have been a sad moment. I’m glad I took the time to capture this unexpected Anemone bloom in photographs. As gardeners, we know how the garden is in a consistent state of change. The bud or bloom you see in the morning will most likely be different by nightfall. The act of change or transition in the garden is familiar to every gardener.

It is almost February. In five days or so, I will see more growth on the bulbs in the ground. The potted pansies will raise their little heads and the foliage of the potted Heuchera villosa, will still be the bright spot as winter lingers.

Today, most of the snow has departed leaving most gardens with the task of absorbing the moisture left behind. It is 61 degrees in my Zone 7b garden – in January. Mother Nature knows when the time is right for certain plants to demonstrate their strength. Today, I lowered my eyes and my Anemone was returning the gaze. As our eyes met, we shared a smile.

On a warm, but gray day in January, Anemone coronaria is showing all who care to notice her. The strength and ability to ward off the chilly snow filled days and still bloom is the reward for a bit of patience. I now remember that in a moment of sorting seeds, corms, and bulbs in preparation for the 2023 seed swap, planting was better than disposing of them. This particular planter had pansies last Spring and vinca last summer. It feels great knowing this Anemone chose this year to show her strengths, especially having endured soil disruption. Anemone sown from corm or bareroot, have a few basic requirements. This plant needs to have some type of cold stratification, good drainage, sun/sun-part shade, and above all – patience. Anemone needs to settle in for a few seasons before it decides to bloom.

I am so glad time did not allow me to cut this lone bloom for a vase indoors. The opportunity for me to enjoy this Anemone in her natural element is something I am glad to see firsthand. The forth Saturday of January has been National Seed Swap Day since 2006 when Kathy Jentz, Editor/Publisher of Washington Gardener Magazine created this day as an official signal for seed sowing season to begin. This Saturday many seed aficionados are sorting, labeling and preparing for a day of seed bliss with local seed-sharing events.

Are there special moments in your garden when you expect nothing in the bleakness of winter? What surprises have you enjoyed from Mother Nature? Are you attending a Seed Swap or Exchange any time soon??

Now that our days are brighter a little longer, I can enjoy my Anemone first thing in the morning, as well as the evening. With the warmer than average temps, sitting on my front stoop with Precious, peering at my Anemone, will be quite meaningful.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Bliss In A Brandywine Garden – A Book Review

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Bliss is a personal emotion felt when enjoying the garden. In my opinion, A year at Brandywine Cottage by David L. Culp can be compared to seasonal bliss in a book.

Bliss should be the name of the soil found in the Brandywine Valley. I am a firm believer that this soil is what might be found in heaven. The Brandywine Valley is famous for its history, historic homes, and beautiful gardens. From Longwood to Chanticleer, it offers a multitude of diverse horticultural entities that inspire. David L. Culp has written a book that takes us on a six-season visual journey at the Brandywine Cottage. Known by many for his Galanthus events and Hellebore introductions, this is David Culp’s second book. The first book is called The Layered Garden. Each book offers a different aspect of gardening at the Brandywine Cottage. Both books offer inspiration to fellow gardeners. The art of encouraging anyone to find inspiration in your personal green space is the shared message.

David L. Culp – a man who is passionate, understands the possibilities found in the garden, and a serious plant lover!

BLISS IN A BOOK

The book, A Year at Brandywine Cottage – Six Seasons of Beauty, Bounty, and Blooms by David Culp, Denise Cowie, and Rob Cardillo, reveals the six seasons of the gardening year. Think of each season as a meal. Consider the gardening year a six-course meal. Thirty years of creating a garden filled with love, experiments, and possibilities set the table for each season to be embraced.

Whether the season includes ephemerals of Spring or the colorful leaves appreciated in autumn, Brandywine Cottage is a garden story. David shares how he made his garden with the help of his partner, Michael Alderfer. Beautifully plated, shared, and enjoyed, each season could be considered a short story.

I began reading this book in March. Like many this year, I had quite a bit of time on my hands. I seized the opportunity to review this book as my cottage garden evolved right before my eyes. I fell in love instantly and knew I needed to see this garden for myself.

A Brandywine Hellebore, elegantly captured and centered on a single page, provided a perfect distraction to the worries of the day. The handsomely photographed bloom hypnotized me. Mesmerized, it nearly took my breath away. My attempts to focus were unsuccessful as my eyes repeatedly drifted back in amazement. Perhaps it was how David described naming his cultivars. Most named cultivars were defined by moments experienced in the garden. I realized this book was feeding my soul. Wondering how to deal with a pandemic, I had found my escape.

My view of the Brandywine Cottage in an August to remember…

NOTICING BLISS IN THE SEASONAL GARDEN

As I began to read the story of David’s garden, the month of March was merely an appetizer. Each word allowed me to appreciate the garden in a different way. I understand this month offered an opportunity to pause and observe. At Brandywine Cottage this was the time to embrace the garden in the present. It was the beginning of a six-course seasonal journey into a garden. A cottage garden created by hard work and lots of love.

Month by month I settled into the new reality of unintentional pausing and this book has been my companion. Fortunately, A Year at Brandywine Cottage has encouraged me to anticipate what’s next in the garden. Imagining each chapter – month by month – as a course at a unique floral feast. As I savored March and April…I knew that this book was different. This is not a novel. It is a story about embracing seasonal beauty as an intentional act of love. To truly receive the gift this book offers, I suggest savoring it month by month. To be honest, I will not consider reading the chapters in the fifth and sixth seasons. It is merely November…known as late fall.

This was a scene that caught my eye as I enjoyed visiting with David at the Brandywine Cottage.

VISUAL BLISS

I consider the photos as a blessing in this book. Each one was a moment captured by an appreciative eye. Graceful blooms captured by the lens of Rob Cardillo, a fellow gardener, and photographer. As I gasped at Thalictrum rochebruneanum, my heart actually skipped a beat. Captured at the right time of the day and a perfect introduction to a course called Summer. The leaves of cabbage, veined with hints of plum accented by the dark foliage of the perilla below. The artist called Nature held her paintbrush high at the right moment and was captured by Cardillo.

Embracing each season with ideas is like tapas for the gardener. Simple bites for making a Cottage garden fill the pages of this book. David’s perspective allows the reader to consider each idea as a possibility. David advises us about the seasonal beauty we can find in our own gardens. This book is an open invitation to experiment with a diverse plant palette. David Culp suggests many easy options as he shares his garden story.

EDIBLE BLISS

A Year at Brandywine Cottage also includes simple recipes offering ideas of what is edible in the garden. This book on gardening as a lifestyle provides a blueprint enabling us to reconsider our sense of taste. Each month teases the reader with edible delights. I was hesitant about eating my dandelions. The Dandelion Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing seemed to call out to me. I adhered to the warning – only use dandelions collected from a chemical-free garden. Encouraged, I gathered dandelions from my chemical-free garden. My adventurous spirit was rewarded with this delicious dish.

I considered the Sauteed Fiddlehead Ferns for April. The Fiddleheads in my garden were beautiful. The fronds offered hope for healthy, full-bodied ferns this season. Cooking with them was not an option this year. I made the Funny Cake for a delicious snack. One day I will have enough Fiddleheads to sacrifice. I will enjoy the fern’s beauty allowing them to unfurl in my garden. I dream about growing more to use for edible cooking.

Each chapter encourages the reader to discover a simple sip, a soup, or even a dessert. Imagine using watercress from your own garden for Watercress Tea sandwiches. David teaches the reader to understand the joy of simplicity found in our gardens.

MEMORIES CONTAINED OR CAPTURED

Vases or containers are traditional ways of sharing floral expressions from the garden. David encourages us to look beyond the vase. Containing blooms and creatively displaying them is an idea from this book. He reminds us that still life has been around for centuries. Collecting a leaf, bloom, or stem aids in creating a still life. Even placing pots artfully on a bench or a collection of seasonal items placed on a Taboret can capture moments otherwise lost. David encourages us to be present in the garden. Select memories of a day in the garden and place them anywhere. After all, moments savored throughout the day are important.

If we pause, memorable moments in the garden can be discovered. There is a certain joy when finding something that can be artfully arranged and enjoyed in the present. From a bud, a bloom, or even a leaf, David shares how A Year at Brandywine Cottage has something for all of us to mimic at home.

RECOMMENDED READING AND GIFTING

While we continue to be apart from each other, I highly recommend A Year At Brandywine Cottage. It is one of the best inspirational books that encourages each of us to garden in a way that speaks our language. What a great gift David shares. Like a flight of wine, A Year at Brandywine Cottage is unique to the individual reader’s taste. This book offers ideas, recipes, and simple ways to embrace life from the garden. Imagining possibilities, creating vignettes to delight, and examples of placing memories throughout the garden are on every page.

Envisioning opportunities to linger is one unexpected gift found in this book. Imagine looking at a space and allowing it to speak to you about what it needs. This is a naturalistic garden story designed to complement and add seasonal bliss. As new gardeners begin an ever-evolving journey, this book is a great gift. David Culp offers observations, as well as possibilities of what can be achieved in the garden for gardeners of all levels. The joy found in each month will encourage and inspire even the seasoned gardener.

Patiently embracing November at The Cottage In The Court as I remember walking with David Culp at the Brandywine Cottage in summer.

Teri, Cottage In The Court

To hear the podcast where I chatted with David L. Culp, click here

To read more about David Culp, click here.

For information about co-author Denise Cowie, click here

Inquiries about photographer Rob Cardillo, click here

To find out more abut Timber Press click here

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Book Review: The Earth In Her Hands…

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Book reviews bring me joy. Especially when they speak my language.

Book reviews are one of my favorite things to do, other than gardening. Especially when they are about gardens, gardening or garden travel. I recently had the opportunity to review a book published by Timber Press. I want to say Thank You to Timber Press for seeing a need and finding the right person to share the message.

The Earth In Her Hands – The Book

The Earth In Her Hands – 75 Extraordinary Women Working in the World of Plants, beautifully written by Jennifer Jewell. Creator of a popular podcast, Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History & the Human Impulse to Garden, Jennifer Jewell’s perspective on approaching this topic was truly on point. Choosing the women for this topic had to be quite the ordeal. Who do you leave out? How do you know you have chosen wisely? Jennifers keen instinct on making this a worthwhile book was unique and well-executed.

The conversation throughout the book embraced women in many different fields of work, all pertaining to horticulture. A diverse collection of women who connect with this earth whether in their communities or in the public space.

The Story

In this book, Jennnifer shares not just their story but who inspires them. This is a big question that should actually lead to another book on this topic. Women are often overlooked or minimized in many fields, even horticulture.

Familiar faces are all through this book from Erin Benzakein (Floret), Peggy Cornett (Monticello) to Renee Shepherd (Renee’s Seeds). There are also some women we need to know like Yolanda Burrell (Pollinate Farm and Garden), Leslie Bennett (Pine House Edible Gardens) and Robin Wall Kimmerer (Center for Native Peoples and The Environment).

Finding joy in making bouquets would inspire a carer for Christin Geall. Such a simple act of self-expression has created a life long way of enjoying what she does.

Filling A Need

The need to inspire young women of all ages to just get outside, garden with a passion and see where that passion leads is important. As I read this book the first time, there was something very obvious. Most of the women in this book had been introduced to the garden at a young age. The impact of connecting to the earth always amazes me. One story and quote sticks in my mind. Marta McDowell (NY Botanical Garden) shared after visiting the Emily Dickenson house. “…A door opened that day, and I stepped through it.”

This quote really spoke to me as a Gardener and a Garden Communicator.

I am on the fourth reading of its book as I investigate the Other Inspiring Women recommended by the interviewees. With Mother’s Day gifting in mind, this is a book worth gifting.

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Avocado – Jewel of Goodness

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Avocado, a delicious capsule of goodness I have come to embrace.

The avocado was a foreign object to me. I grew up eating good ole southern fare. This green capsule, now called one of the superfoods, has officially taken my tastebuds hostage.

I am no stranger to trying new and different things – if they are visually appealing. I remember it being a popular item served during football games when I lived in Virginia. With a bowl of chips, my family made the green goop (I called it) disappear. At the time, I could not understand why.

Avocado Selection

The perfectly chosen avocado should not feel mushy or have soft spots. If it feels heavy for its size, you have selected correctly. Want to hasten the ripening of an avocado? Simply place them in a brown bag on the counter. Keep an eye out so they do not over ripen. One can also place them in a bag with other fruits like banana’s to encourage ripening – but check daily! In a day or so, you should have a perfectly usable fruit.

Storage Tips

Rule number one – do not immediately refrigerate avocados. This fruit should be kept at 68 degrees. Producing ethylene, like a banana, refrigeration will not encourage ripening but could ruin a perfectly ripe fruit.

If your avocado is not quite ripe, just leave it on the counter for a few days. I like to use an antique bowl for a pop of color. After all, it is all about the pretty in my world.

Avocado’s held by a bowl that says sunshine…it is all about the pretty in my world.

If you want to keep a ripe avocado for a few days until you use it, only then refrigeration is okay. Keep in mind, this will slow down the over-ripening, but not stop the ripening process. Refrigerated too long, the fruit will turn to mush.

A sliced avocado should be spritzed with lemon juice to preserve the color and wrap or place in an airtight container. Even when the avocado turns brown, it is edible – just aesthetically unpleasing.

Fruit With Benefits

According to Medical News Today, the avocado is essential to the whole well being of the body at any age. The benefits of consuming this green jewel include heart health, detoxifier, strong fighter of chronic diseases, and improves digestion to name a few. A terrific resource for vitamins C. E, K, and B-6, the avocado also has healthy fats that enhance our skin.

Planting avocado pits can provide unique gifts for your fellow plant lovers.

Plant Those Pits

Starting an avocado tree from one of the pits is an easy project. Knowing that it will take years to bear fruit, it can make beautiful houseplant. As with any plant, the conditions must be right for this plant to thrive.

To start, fill a nice size jar with water. Make certain the pit is clean and dry. The widest end of the pit should face the water. Poke at least three toothpicks into the side of the pit, allowing no more than one inch immersed in the water. Find a warm and bright spot to place your avocado pit so you can see the progress as it sets roots and sprouts. nIt will take six to eight weeks to see growth. Try several in case the pit doesn’t sprout. They make unique gifts for your favorite plant’s person.

Once your pet becomes a seedling and reaches a height of six to eight inches, cut it in half. It will send out heavier roots with a flush of growth with luscious leaves. Find the perfect pot, at least ten inches in diameter, add good quality soil, transplant and let the magic begin. Don’t plant the seedling too deep. Half of the pit should be above the surface of the soil. As your new plant thrives, pinch it back occasionally to avoid legginess. Depending on your climate, you could plant your tree outside or place it in a container that is portable. Remember – it is a tropical tree.

If you are looking for a cold-hardy avocado tree, they can be found on-line. One nursery, Brighter Blooms offers a cultivar that is cold hardy in zone 7 gardens. I am not certain if it would taste the same. Under the right conditions, it might be worth a try, with space or a hothouse.

Creating Good Green Goop

Last Fall I went to the Audi Field in Washington, DC for a food festival. One of the vendors had avocado toast. I tasted it and am now a changed woman. As the crunch of the whole grain bread slathered with the seasoned avocado spread danced in my mouth, I fell in love. The green goop that I did not understand, lingered on my tastebuds.

I did my research, acquired the essentials – avocado, garlic, tomato, lemon juice, a touch of olive oil, and Penzey’s Justice…and made my own green goop. Creating different palette-pleasing combinations of avocado spread is now my passion. I even found a recipe that used sweet potato slices in lieu of bread. That could be interesting.

Have you considered growing your own avocado tree? Perhaps it would be nice to grow one as a tropical plant for the summer. At some point I would tire of dragging it indoors in the winter. I think I will stick to reputable markets or grocery stores.

Avocado dreaming,

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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Scent of Winter – A Sweetness In The Air

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The scent of the season can be brought inside and enjoyed while nesting.

Scent during the cold months of winter are welcomed indoors and out. There are some fragrances that we anticipate and others we do not. Scents play such a role in our lives. As a gardener in the off season I seek out seasonal scents whenever I go outside.

Now that the holidays are over, the smell of balsam, fir and pine, still linger lightly in the landscape. In my yard, this fragrance comes from recycling wreaths with home-made edible ornaments for the birds.

Each flower looks like a ballerina. In my mind, the imaginary skirt twirls as it emits the sweet scent of winter.

As I wander down by the woods line, I lift my nose there is a faint sweet smelling scent. A scent that in some circles is known as “Sweet Breath of Spring” or “Kiss Me At The Gate”. In other circles it is known as January Jasmine or Chinese Honeysuckle. When I lived in Fredericksburg, Virginia, we called it “Winter Honeysuckle”.

Botanically speaking, it is “Lonicera fragrantissima”. A honeysuckle with the sweetest scent in the middle of winter. This shrub has an expected height and girth of 6 – 10 feet. Great for those who have space, as every branch that touches the ground takes root. If you are considering a shrub that will create a thicket if left alone, the added value of this shrub is the scent.

This scent would waft through the air as I walked past the downtown train station in Fredericksburg. In a neglected corner, this shrub did not look like much. We often forgot to water it, yet the sweet scent it shared was one of forgiveness. We could see passersby looking around in wonderment as they tried to figure out where the scent was coming from.

Left on it’s own devices, Winter Honeysuckle can become gangly in appearance. Full or part sun, it will only require moderate water to survive. A decent pruning after bloom will keep this shrub happy and healthy as it flourishes in the landscape.

The pale pink, almost white sheath holds the subtly sweet scent of winter.

The delicate bulb like buds are held tight on each limb. Covered in a sheath of soft pink, a gentle squeeze of these buds, tickle your sense of smell. Perfect for cutting and placing in your vase of choice, Winter Honeysuckle branches add a sweet scent to the air. Although some consider this a thug shrub, placed properly it has value in the landscape.

When there is nothing else in bloom, try Winter Honeysuckle. Whether it is in the ground or in a vase, it is sure to brighten up any gray winter day!!

The scent of Winter Honeysuckle dances in the air on slippers of gold…only in my mind.

I hope you add a bit of fragrance to your world as we continue nesting til Spring!

Teri, Cottage In The Court

To find out more about this fragrant shrub, click here.

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Stillness in Winter – A Gift to The Gardener

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Stillness in winter is perfect for autumnal tasks.

When the air is crisp and the leaves are falling leaf removal is on our mind. Which is why autumn in winter is a gift for this gardener. The stillness of winter beckoned me to see what I could get done on a warm December day.

My stool and the Women’s Work gauntlet gloves are today’s garden essentials.

I gathered the necessary tools to not work but linger in the garden on my own terms. None of my neighbors were outside enjoying the stillness of the day. The birds were chirping, dogs barking and I was alone to commune with nature. I reached into my curbside flowerbed and gently lifted the leaves. Away from the crowns, from in between the foliage, I tossed them to the curb. Tossing over my shoulder, the acorns which were trying to take root, landed softly on the growing pile. Noone heard this but me, in the stillness of a winter day.

GIFTS BENEATH THE LEAVES

The single dandelion boldly blooming, despite the season.

I chose to linger in certain spots because of the gifts that continually appeared as I sorted through the leaves. The bold bloom of a dandelion, with basal foliage peeking from beneath a clump of yarrow. Often under-appreciated, the dandelion brings so much to the garden. This gift, considered a weed to some, a plant many people abhor, desperately attempted to eradicate by others, is actually good for the pollinator community. Did you now that bees and birds love dandelions?? Dandelions are a terrific source of nectar and pollen for hungry bees and pollinators. Who knew that such a gift could be found when venturing outside in the stillness of a warm winter day.

Peony tips easing through the soil like a rocket preparing for launch.

Gently running my hands over the surface of the soil, I felt a bump that jarred my memory. A peony root, planted with a kiss for good luck, had survived. One stalk emerged and one leaf spoke to the strength of the root. There was no bloom, but this tip emerging from the chosen spot gives me hope. I hope that this year, I might get two leaves.

Tree peonies are such tough friends in the garden.

I paused and strolled over to my garden heroes. The tree peonies trampled by roofers last year were beginning to swell. My heart, melting in the stillness of this moment, was a bit overwhelmed. These ladies bring a bodacious bloom as they lift their heads and dance in the breezes of Spring. In African American folklore, peony seeds were given to those who are indecisive about something. In my garden, it offers a brief moment of bloom after a winter thaw.

The False Indigo pods have a beauty and music of their own.

What is that I hear? A subtle rattle disrupts the quiet in my garden as I brush past the Baptisia, also known as False Indigo. The blackened pods hold seeds that create music, which disrupts the stillness of the moment. I gather a handful of stems and shake them as I dance my way to the pile of garden debris. The joy of peace and quiet of the garden in the stillness of winter never ceases to amaze me.

The hosta stalks have a similar song…like a soft tap dance on the leaves below.

GARDEN LOSS

This Pieris Japonica will be missed next Spring.

Loss in the garden is an expected reality. We can appreciate this act of life and consider it an opportunity. To remember and replace with something different or similar. The Pieris Japonica will be a memory and instead of replacing it, I will allow the azaleas to spread in girth and close the gap.

Winter allows us to spend quality time in the garden. The quiet time which allows us to remember the summer garden party and embrace the absence of the same. The stillness found in winter is a special gift to the gardener.

Do you appreciate winter’s warm days? Is walking through the garden and assessing future changes a task you enjoy? Does the stillness of winter encourage you to go outside and embrace the beauty that surrounds you??

Celebrating finding stillness a gift,

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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Kindness Grows In A Community

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Kindness is often overlooked as we move through life. We expect life to happily happen. We know there will be good times and bad. Life can be tricky. We are rarely ready for the unexpected. It takes a loving family and the community’s kindness to help with the healing process.

February 28, 2010, is a day that I will always remember. My niece, Alexis Diana Speight lost her life to childhood cancer. At Thanksgiving dinner in 2009, Lexi complained of a tummy ache. The cancer moved at warp speed to take her from all who loved her. Children’s National Medical Center became home to Lexi’s intimate little family. Petr and Cyndi were by Lexi’s side through it all. Lexi could not have had better, attentive parents We continue to support my little brother and his young family emotionally.. After Lexi transitioned, the kindness of others grew a community.

Laps for Lexi (a 501 (c)(3) was born. This charitable organization’s goal was to raise money to support research for childhood cancer and a scholarship at the Sandy Springs Friends School. The kindness and generosity of a loving community pulled together to raise enough money to celebrate achieving a goal honoring Lexi. The Sandy Springs Friends School was Lexi’s school. For 13 years, Laps for Lexi was a good reason for many in the community to come together for a day of remembrance.

On November 1, at Children’s National Hospital, we celebrated the installation of the Lexi Speight Chair of Pediatric Oncology. Dr. AeRang Kim, M.D., Ph.D. is now the first recipient of The Lexi Speight Chair in Pediatric Oncology. The opportunity for a new way to treat solid cancerous tumors is now under the purview of Dr. Kim. After meeting Dr. Kim, I knew the research would take on cancer headfirst. On November 1, as we honored Lexi, childhood cancer has a new warrior. Dr. Kim is working to find a way to give other parents hope and more children the opportunity to beat this awful disease.

Not willing to give up, my sister-in-love Cyndi, my youngest brother Petr, and my niece Samantha became activists against cancer. With the love and support of an entire community, an effort of love to help other children with cancer became bigger than life. It is the best way to honor Lexi’s name. Lexi’s transition has forever changed our family. Friendships have been solidified, and the effort to honor Lexi has bolstered support from local businesses and more.

That mission was to show how Kindness grows in a community. Kindness goes a long way and the minimal effort it takes should not go unnoticed. Simply practicing kindness is easy. Did you know we recently observed National Kindness Day? It was the perfect day to commit to being better people in our communities and to strangers along the way.

At a time when we need kindness to be part of our daily random acts, consider looking around and making an effort to promote kindness in your community. Many people might be going through a crisis and not share it. Some might carry a heavy burden for many reasons that might not be obvious. Did you know a simple smile could be the seed to start a positive interaction?

Sowing seeds of kindness can show you care. A smile, a note, or a nod, might just be the acknowledgment needed at the right time. Give it a try. I carry seeds of kindness everywhere I go. I urge you to do the same.

Are you sowing seeds of kindness in your community?

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Unexpected Game-changers for A Changing Climate

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Unexpected game-changers for a changing climate are appreciated when conditions are warmer than anticipated.

(photo courtesy of First Editions /Bailey Nursery)

Unexpected game-changers were exactly what we needed this summer. We experienced a season that was consistently hot and dry. With an ever-changing climate, selecting plants for the garden was a greater challenge than anticipated.

This year, many gardeners carefully read plant tags, and chose plant combinations bred to thrive, all while wiping sweat from their brows and hoping for the best. How many plants would thrive on minimal care, infrequent watering, and weeks of rising temperatures? Some gardeners found it difficult to figure out when it was cool enough to venture outside to maintain and water their existing garden…or if it was worth it.

Cavano’s Perennials in Kingsville, Maryland had a nursery Open House earlier this Spring. David Culp was there to offer tips on plants that were a part of the Brandywine Cottage Collection. Trust is an essential part of supporting a collection of plants that do well under the watchful eye of an esteemed Horticulturalist. I consider David a friend whose plant experience I trust. He shared which plants I should try from his collection. When I departed, my car was filled with Cavano’s perennials and even a few annuals. I was one happy gardener who knew which plant would go in specific areas.

One shrub from First Editions and two plants from the Brandywine Cottage Collection brought me joy each time I entered my garden. Despite the heat, I wanted to see what would thrive. Plants that endure the heat and humidity commonly found in the DMV are plants we should share.

VITEX QUEEN BEE

Unexpected long-season blooms are just one reason to consider growing Queen Bee in your garden.

I have been a fan of Vitex or the Chaste Tree for quite some time. The blue blooms and its ability to host a bee party leave a smattering of drunken bees throughout the bush. Vitex Queen Bee is an appropriate name for this beautiful, easy to grow shrub.

I can honestly say I am fascinated with the foliage AND the bloom. This year, I am thankful for the intermittent water that Mother Nature shared in August. The drought tolerance of this beautiful shrub is amazing! Queen Bee doesn’t let too much time go by without pushing out the cleanest leaves and stunning blue blooms. Generally, Queen Bee will top out at 6 feet but can get wider. I plan on minimizing her girth by trying to use the branches in floral displays – even if they last just one day. Floating the foliage in a bowl or bird bath can also make quite a statement, especially when adding assorted colorful blooms.

Queen Bee Vitex is a shrub that is not shy about taking up space and thrives without much attention. In a sunny spot, this shrub provides effortless beauty, brilliant blue blooms, and a bee party.

My dilemma is how many Vitex can one have? I think three is a great number…I can hear the musical buzzing now. Stay tuned as I introduce a few perennials that brought me joy even in the heat of summer.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Fireflies- Dancing Beneficial’s of the Garden

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Fireflies are the beneficial disco dancers of the evening garden.

Fireflies are the beneficial disco dancers of the night. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that bring me joy. We hear so much about the decline of beneficial insects- including the fireflies or, as we called them – lightning bugs. As children, we danced around them at night and dodged them as they lit up in flight.

Growing up in Washington, DC, summer nights, outside our childhood home were always filled with activities and laughter. We ran around with found containers attempting to catch the fireflies dancing in the nighttime sky. My brother, Jimmy, would catch one in between his hands. I just knew it would burn his palms, and I would ask, “Jimmy, does it hurt when the light touches your hand?”

He quietly answered no, then told me to hold out my hand. Always encouraging me to face my fears, Jimmy had me cup my hands, as he had done. Reaching up, he captured a firefly and gently placed this dancer of the night into my palms. I felt it flutter, light up to a subtle glow, and smiled. I had done something I never imagined I would do. Something as simple as holding a firefly was monumental to me. After a brief moment, we released our lightning bugs and continued our game.

As I walked Precious one evening, I noticed hundreds of fireflies waiting for me to perform. It was as if I were a guest at Nature’s Disco Party I’m so glad my neighbors continue to mow a little high, edge, and blow the sidewalks. Every once in a while, new neighbors will enlist the services of a lawn care company. Many people do not know or even remember sitting outside at night. Breathing in the night air, and witnessing Nature’s Disco Party is a testament to simpler times. The fireflies, dancing to their beat, were shining brightly, reminding me of simpler times and their significance to the cycle of nature.

Fireflies are good for our gardens. This beneficial beetle loves snails, grubs, and worms. Providing a moist area, woodland setting, or a place under tall tree canopies, encourages fireflies to gravitate to this area. Provide a slightly unkempt area for procreation. By creating a naturalistic setting, these nighttime dancers will be quite happy. If you have a pine tree, most likely you will see Fireflies in abundance. Pine trees are the perfect trees for fireflies looking for a new home.

Many Native plants we have in our gardens will attract Fireflies. Solidago, Asters, Coreopsis, Rudbeckia, and other native species of plants are sure to bring the nighttime party to your garden. If you want to attract more fireflies into your garden – consider planting a few tall grasses along the perimeter of your lawn, mowing your lawn a little higher, and trying to avoid or minimize the use of pesticides. Consider adding a water feature in your garden to attract beneficial insects.

Many homeowners, and community associations, find it hard to live with anything less than a perfectly manicured garden. Consider creating a micro-hotel for a few beneficial insects. Stack a few large limbs, medium-sized branches, or even old firewood at the rear of the garden. Add some pine needles or mulch to create the perfect habitat for this much-loved living nightlight of nature. Remember to do what you can to invite fireflies to thrive in your yard and consider it home.

The perfect time to see fireflies is at dusk. Did you know if you turn off your security light, and go outside into the garden, a dance party of fireflies will begin if the conditions are right? Just remember, they don’t hurt but help our environment. The memories of seeing the fireflies hover near the water’s edge at the Isaac Walton League near my childhood home, brings a smile to my face. Waiting for dusk and the dance party in my garden, Teri, Cottage in the Court (NOT AI Generated – Generated from my heart…)

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Maryland Gardens – A Month Full of Local Garden Tourism

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Maryland has a home and garden tour that offers a peek into private homes and gardens.

A few weeks ago, I attended a garden tour in Talbot, Maryland. The Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage offers a sneak peek into various private gardens that inspire anyone who attends. This pilgrimage has taken place since 1930. The ladies who curated Virginia Garden Week were responsible for inspiring The Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland. An event like this would be great for the residents of Maryland. Since that time, Marylanders have looked forward to this event. The attendees are called pilgrims, a term dating back to the journey it took to reach parts of underdeveloped Maryland. These journeys were called pilgrimages.

Each year, as time allows, I try to visit one or two of the weekend tours. This year the tours have been amazing. One in particular was the Talbot County Tour. Many – almost all of the homes requested no photos, which is understandable. These are private homes opening their doors for one day to benefit great causes within the community. Open the doors, they did!!

The stately homes, the magnificent floral displays, and the garden views were all simply divine. The imagination that went into each floral display captured the attention of many. Docents directed each attendee throughout each house pointing out architectural elements. I was distracted by the beauty found in the vases and vessels strategically placed in every room. This caused many in attendance to simply say ‘Ah…how stunning!’

One house had a divinely beautiful kitchen with cups of peony petals placed on the center island. This added a pleasing scent, which wafted throughout the space. The pilgrim’s sense of smell, in addition to the visual beauty, was embraced upon entering the room. Emotionally stirred, I wandered toward the sunroom and noticed what appeared to be a cutting garden. What a cutting garden it was. Roses anchored this beautiful outdoor garden room, growing up columns that flanked the garden room. As the perennials stood tall, I could hear them say, ‘Look at me, I know I am beautiful’…and they were! This was a garden that truly spoke to me.

One of the other pilgrims mentioned that she was hoping this particular house was worth it. I replied, when you have to walk up a long road to the house, that’s a sign. When all signage said No photographs inside or outside of the house, it had to be worth it. There was no denying, that this house and garden were worth it! We laughed and chatted, as we kept each other company while walking back to our cars. Most gardeners understand sharing the garden, as well as keeping a little piece of the garden just for the gardener.

For ninety-one years this event has excited people from near and far to visit. The monies raised support projects that benefit the community. In 2024, the Scotts United Methodist Church and Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church will benefit from the money raised. Additional support will also go to maintaining the Talbot Historical Society Garden in Easton, Maryland.

There are two more gardens to visit on the Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage. On June 1, Dorchester County will host their Pilgrimage. The homes selected feature a diverse selection of gardens that blend with the natural beauty of the waterfront. Dorchester is where the beloved Araminta Ross, also known as Harriett Tubman, hailed from. A
few of these gardens have achieved Baywise Certification. The Tour book recommends ordering your lunch in advance using this link https://py.pl/gP1bK 

Oh June 22, Prince George’s County will share the beauty of its homes and gardens. This pilgrimage will start at Trueman Point at Eagle Harbor. A historical town, significant to the journey of Africans to Maryland, and tobacco, this waterfront space is beautiful. Standing at the edge of the water, one can imagine the history the land holds. A story easily imagined, listening to the song sung by the water dancing against the rocks. Other stops share the rich history of Maryland from formal homes to simple historical structures. It is also encouraged to order lunch in advance – check the MHGP website for details.

Both of these remaining tours should appeal to historians as well as gardeners. The Tour book identifies where the money raised will go to support selected projects. To find out more click here

It is always a great opportunity to partake in garden tours each spring. The added value of knowing the money raised goes directly into the community, makes me feel it is worth attending. Attending these tours has also enlightened me about the history of Maryland that I was unaware of.

Have you experienced the Maryland Home and Garden Pilgrimage?? Due to holidays, the Maryland Home and Garden Pilgrimage lasts a little over a month. Every weekend it offers a new area to explore and is always so much fun.

Sitting on the stoop at the Cottage, enjoying the stillness of the night in the garden, while dreaming of peony petals in teacups on my counters…

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Plants and Gardens – Unexpected Friendships From the Earth

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Plants bring joy to many people…especially when a fellow gardener is willing to share.

Plants and gardens are a common denominator when passionate gardeners begin a conversation. I am grateful for two fellow gardeners – who I consider great garden friends, Wendy and Chelsea.  Without Wendy, I would not know Chelsea.

I had a project for Earth Day and needed seedlings. Calling Wendy was the first thing that came to mind. Wendy knows her plants and is a reliable resource. This one woman is knowledgeable and helps me connect the dots when I need plant guidance.

Wendy referred me to Chelsea, as my project was quite small. Chelsea became the specialty grower for four separate projects. The plants were healthy and made a great Earth Day presentation.

This year, another opportunity presented itself to utilize Chelsea as a specialty grower. for a special project.

The heart of this woman truly amazes me. While relocating down south, Chelsea said yes. We made a plan to grow plants traditionally found in the African American community. To some, these plants would be considered basic. For others, Zinnias, Marigolds, Cosmos, and calendula were typical plants found in communities of meager means.

Chelsea sowed what seeds were requested, fertilizing them with love, and produced simply gorgeous plants. She also offered to grow a little more from seeds and plant divisions she did not want to leave behind. This is an example of what a true gardener does, from the heart…even in the middle of relocating.

After the second trip to retrieve the plants, we were sharing how hard it is to leave a garden behind. A gentle breeze caused me to notice a plant along the walkway. Chelsea identified it as a Salvia. She was unclear about the cultivar at that moment. However, like most gardeners, she promised to follow up later with the identification. Offering to share it with me, I found a bag, she retrieved her Hori Hori knife and the smaller clump was mine.

When I got home, I received an email from Chelsea with the plant identification. It was Salvia nutens or Salvia pendulum. That plant is a stunner, and I was happy to invite it into my garden.

We said our goodbyes, and I could not wait to get home. I also realized this was not just a gardener who could grow beautiful plants, but a friend. 

True, salt of the earth gardeners are kind, share often, and freely give from their heart. Gardeners like this also love to share from their gardens. I’d like to think it’s a way of remembering the gardener in your own green space.

Plants and gardens bring people together in unexpected ways. The friendships created by a mere seed, a cutting, or a passionate plant are how gardens grow. On a recent Saturday, I reached out to  Cavanos and asked for nodding Salvia. Wendy knew exactly what I was talking about and aided my perennial addiction twofold! One can never have too many plants in my world.

Wendy, Thank you for the connection. Chelsea, Thank you for your hard work and your generosity.

Mother Earth has a way of cultivating gardeners to keep her garden alive and growing. Most gardeners are like and understand perennials. We know our plants have a three-year journey to greatness. The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and then they leap into everything we imagined. As we practice having hope and patience, we discover the joys found in the garden. 

How many people have shared plants, acquired a pass-along plant, and made real friendships through earthly interactions?

It’s going to be quite a colorful year at The Cottage in the Court. Sitting in my garden, smiling all while watching the Salvia nutens thrive in her new home.

Teri, Cottage In The Court

(not AI-Generated)

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Earth Day Actions – A Commitment to the Future

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Earth Day should be celebrated every day.

Earth Day activities are everywhere. This shows that it is still an important mindset. We need to ask ourselves, are we embracing the true meaning of this movement or just checking the box? I have been wrestling with this over the past few days. There is cause for concern.

This year’s theme is Planet vs. Plastics. The call to action is clear. We need to elevate the conversation on how plastics affect our health, the community, and the future. If we phase out single-use plastic, we can reduce litter and increase awareness of cleaner, healthier communities. Plastic pollution is a real and present danger to ALL of us.

In Prince Georges County, Maryland, if you need a bag, bring your bag. The campaign of 2023 made it clear to bring a reusable bag when shopping or purchase one to carry your goods. Our law now emphasizes a war on single-use plastics and litter. This action encourages residents to bring a bag from home for shopping instead of the plastic bags commonly found along the roadways. The uproar of citizens who felt inconvenienced was disappointing. Some of the same people are angry when seeing trash and litter of all kinds along our highways and roadsides. Many people have reusable bags tucked in a closet, the trunk of the car, or inside a larger bag waiting to be reused. The time to wait is over. We need to use those bags NOW.

How many of you remember when baby bottles were made of glass? I do and it was not that long ago. Using glass bottles meant young mothers did not have to worry about BPA’s. At the time, this was the best way to ensure your baby had milk from a chemical/contaminant-free and recyclable resource. Glass baby bottles are commonly discovered in an older relative’s house or in thrift shops. If these bottles could talk, they would share the tales of generations past. I bet you would not think about doing that with the plastic baby bottles found today. Glass baby bottles require sterilization in a hot water bath, cooled down, and reused. Boiling the caps was a way to ensure no germs survived this process.

Do you notice how many plastic water bottles are on the ground? These plastics are everywhere except in the recycle bins where they belong. Every time I walk my dog, I see flattened water bottles everywhere…except where they should be. It is unsightly and irritating to know that some people do not care. I am certain by now most people have acquired a free water bottle from an event or purchased a cute one from their favorite store.

Did you know a water bottle or other plastic liquid container, can serve as drip irrigation? This is an uncomplicated way to show love to plants that require constant watering attention or those that love damp feet. The water will slowly drip into the pot, and you reclaim a few more minutes for fun, instead of watering plants.

As it applies to our gardens, we can reduce the number of plastic pots in the landfill by – you guessed it – reusing them. If you have ever attended a plant swap, plastic pots from seasons past are always in use. These pots are great for repotting and transporting plants to share. Larger nursery pots are great for inserting on the inside beautiful ceramic pots. Some garden centers will also gladly collect nursery pots for reuse. When schools or other public entities decide to beautify an area, digging up existing plant material always requires a spare pot or two. Asking around or posting on the freecycle sites is a fantastic way to prevent these pots from entering our landfills.

In today’s world and gardens, reducing the use of plastics is more important than ever. As we prepare for Earth Day 2024, please make certain any action you take as an individual or in a group continues beyond the day or even the month. Earth Day is a commitment to the future of this planet.

I practice what I preach. I minimize what plastic comes into my home, carry a recyclable bag or two, and have many cute water bottles for use anywhere. Oh yes…I have black plastic nursery pots that I donate or use for my gardening experiments and sharing plants.

Earth Day is a movement – not simply something to check off the list.

On a beautiful spring evening, outside on the front stoop at the Cottage in the Court, counting the stacks of nursery pots and wondering why they were not in CowPots. That’s another story for another day.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

NOT AI GENERATED…simply my words.

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Patience Grows in the Garden

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Patience grows as we garden It is something every gardener experiences in their lifetime.

Patience can be found in a simple bulb, plump tuber, or visually barren pot. This act of faith and perseverance is key to the gardens we dream about during the off-season. How much does it take to endure waiting for the promise of beauty? In my case, it started with a few peony roots I found in my garden room.

I’m in the mood to purge, simply because I have to (sounds like a song, right?) I want to make my garden room pretty – even if it is part of the laundry room. I have a water source nearby and if I make a mess, I can quickly mop or sweep. This is where I found a long-forgotten stash of bulbs, corms, and roots. The package information had faded, but I knew it had peony roots. As I soaked them in fish emulsion, there was hope these peony roots might have a bit of life stored within.

Peony roots exercised extreme patience in my garden room.

On a chilly September afternoon, I planted the roots, while saying a special prayer of forgiveness. Perhaps these roots would sprout and grow – forgiving me in the process. A mild winter allowed me to keep watch on the space where I tucked the roots into the fertile ground. When I noticed the burgundy points emerging from the ground, I smiled. Now to exercise patience, as I anticipate future blooms.

A Cercis canadensis or Redbud, has practiced the act of patience with me. I am enamored with all redbud trees. There is a catch – you have to plant them. I purchased this tree two years ago. At the time, I also bought my sister one. In her yard, this tree has captured the attention of her neighbors due to the beautiful blooms and leaves. Fortunately, mine…has been waiting for me to find the right place.

Patience might allow this Redbud to grow and thrive.

I checked on this tree throughout the winter. I wondered if it would thrive or even bloom. The other day, I saw a small flash of color at the base of the trunk. I apologized to this tree for not making time to plant her. There was also a tearful thank you for her patience with me. She might struggle, but I will be there for her – just like she was for me.

Sometimes overwintered plants in pots encourage us to give up hope. Stems sticking up, nothing visible at the onset of spring. Observing each pot, I often wonder if I should simply dump it in a low lying spot or be patient. That was my initial feeling as I gazed upon this Clematis in a pot . It was purchased to grace my arbor on the side of the house. Then one day, even though the stems were brown and brittle in appearance, I saw life emerging from a node.

Exercising patience with this Clematis in a pot truly brought me joy.

Whether you plant a corm, tuber, or bulb, there is always hope they will evolve into a healthy plant. The perennials found at the garden center last fall might still be in their pots. I hope you placed them close to the house for winter protection. Casually take a peek at them as the days become longer and brighter. Perhaps the warmth of the seasonal sun will awaken them when the time is right.

Practicing patience can often be difficult. When the wait is over, the beauty, found in the garden, lets us know, that it is worth it. Go outside and watch the garden come to life. It will not happen all at once. Spring is like a budding romance. Take it slow, exercise patience, adapt to the small imperfections, and attempt to resolve any issues. If necessary, alter the landscape (so to speak).

I am exercising patience as I wait for all the friends I planted in my sunny front yard garden. There is also a sense of thankfulness for my garden. You see, my garden exercised patience with me. I happily anticipate the gifts it will share over time.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Grounding – Rituals of the Garden

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Grounding is a ritual which calms the spirit allowing one to be present in the moment.

Grounding is an act of connecting with the earth for many people who garden. This is a ritual I have practiced for years. I was introduced to the act of grounding, while living in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Much needed peace and healing , was discovered in my garden, with a bit of advice from Miss Maude. My world was changing, and I needed sage advice. An older gardener I knew, Miss Maude, befriended me at a Central Rappahannock Master Gardener event. A fast friendship developed and she shared a secret with me.

One day Miss Maude could sense my unsettled spirit. Holding my hands, she offered words of wisdom andadvice. “Teri, I want you to try something. When you feel unbalanced, unsure, or sad, go into your garden. Take off your shoes, allowing your feet to have direct contact with the soil. Stand still, empty your mind, and be open to receiving positive thoughts. Notice the feeling of the earth beneath your feet. Allow yourself to be present in the moment. Do this in the morning, to see how you feel.” Little did I know, the art of grounding would change my life.

Honestly, I assumed Miss Maude was having a moment. I am certain that most people have a seasoned person in their life who offers a bit of advice. Sometimes this advice might seem a little cutting edge or unrealistic. We often use the advice as a tool to say – ok…old wives tale. I am not sure why Miss Maude’s words seemed different on this particular day.

Contemplation Corner was what I called an area in my Virginia garden where I had privacy and found peace. Every morning after putting my daughters on the bus, I wandered to this sacred space and began my grounding ritual. I stood under the large overhanging oak tree and took my shoes off. My non-judgmental audience consisted of the emerging Hosta, Begonias, and Epimedium, quietly watching this act of being in the moment. The release of inner doubt and anxiety disappeared. Miss Maude had prescribed a dose of wisdom from the ancestors.

She explained this was a common ritual amongst farmers and gardeners back in the days of her youth. The Elders would use this practice to stay connected with the land, to pray for a successful garden, and to calm their inner spirit. It is a way of being present with the earth. Grounding helps with self-awareness and a balanced approach to life – with many ups and downs.

My experience with grounding has been life-altering. Now I live and garden in Maryland. It was important for me to create a space specifically for a grounding ritual in my garden. Choosing a spot near my beloved Camellias, seemed to be the perfect place for this intentional ritual. In the summer, I often find a quiet, off the beaten path beach. Strolling on the sand allows me to feel the coolness between my toes and under the soles of my feet. In the winter, I merely place my hands on the earth. This ritual helps me weather any storm that blows my way. There is always somewhere to subject my hands on bare earth or to touch a grassy spot. Embracing the art of grounding, allows me to receive the day with an open mind. Accepting the newness of each moment is a gift.

Is grounding a common ritual in your garden? I encourage every Gardener to create a sacred space, in a quiet area of the garden, bare the soles of your feet (or your hands), and be present in the moment. If you aren’t a gardener, consider the art of grounding. It just might becme a ritual in your life.

Perhaps a moment of grounding by each of us can un-tilt this tilted world.

Miss Maude is one who I miss dearly. Sitting in her garden, soaking up the wisdom she imparted with every visit. I cherish the gift she unknowingly shared at a vvery imprtant time oin my life. The powerful gift of grounding continues to be a part of my life.

Grounding with intention, as I anticipate our next season.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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Philadelphia Flower Show – Seasonal Bliss in the City

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Philadelphia offers gardeners the perfect kickoff event as we anticipate the next season. For 195 years, The Philadelphia Flower Show has offered seasonal bliss in the City of Brotherly Love. This event happens at the perfect time of the year. As the garden begins to evolve into its next act, most gardeners cannot wait to get outside to see what is in bud or even what might be in bloom.

Every year there is a different theme. United by Flowers was the theme of 2024. Gardening and flowers can uplift communities. This show was the perfect example of the magic which occurs when gardeners gather.

This year, the Philadelphia Flower Show made it a point of accommodating the crowds. The aisles were wider, location of places to pause, and the focus on community, made me smile. There was a sense of graciousness as many allowed others to move to the front for better visibility. The floral displays were within reach and something achievable if one used their imagination.

Every year there is a different theme. United by Flowers was the theme of 2024. Gardening and flowers can uplift communities. The Philadelphia Flower Show displayed the magic which occurs whenever gardeners gather.

This year, the Philadelphia Flower Show made it a point of accommodating the crowds. It appeared the aisles were wider, the location of places to pause, and the focus on community, made me smile. There was a sense of graciousness as many allowed others to move to the front for better visibility. The floral displays were within reach and something achievable, if one used their imagination.

Philadelphia welcomed Black Girl Florists for the second year in a row.
We embraced the ritual of gathering at the salon.

Black Girl Florists offered up their interpretation of Cultivating Communal Sanctuaries. There is a relationship between Black hair salons and flower shops. Using a mix of vibrant flowers, magazines, mirrors, and paraphernalia – these ladies pulled off a stunning display. I had to laugh at the many visitors who ignored the sign to not sit. Many took a seat and enjoyed selfies and more. As I walked around the display there were memories of Black hair salons from back in the day. The conversations and the lessons free with every hairstyle flooded my mind. I wondered how we can reclaim those special times in the hair salon.

Susan Cohan tastefully designed a backyard which demonstrated working in unison with nature. The display was a terrific example of what the single gardener could maintain. This added a layer of interest for many in attendance. It was simply beautiful. YES – I am a fan. It was a display sharing a sense of serenity and peacefulness. Most homeowners want a place of peace. An outdoor space which is ecologically sound and promotes enjoyment being outside.

Philadelphia is like most cities…there are abandoned spaces found everywhere. Reimagining these spaces should be a commitment to bringing nature back and working with it.

Unused overgrown spaces exist in most urban environments. I have to say, the display by Kelly Norris truly exhibited A Beautiful Disturbance. It demonstrated his concept of reimagining former industrial spaces into sites where beauty can bring life as it revitalizes communities. We must allow nature to enhance and uplift our spirits. From every angle this display of attainable urban excellence touched me to my core. The future is brighter if we follow this example of adding nature to the relics of our past. I am grateful for this inspirational exhibit. It provides inspiration for what our communities can create.

Working with underused spaces can make a difference…

I am proud of the efforts in my community to beautify our public spaces. By example, we encourage the residents to work with nature. Some of the older trees which had disease and decay have been removed. Younger, healthier native varieties that are beneficial for the community have taken their place.

Tree and garden installations are occurring nationwide. Research continues to prove how beneficial this is to any community. As we reclaim and enhance our communities for the greater good. These plantings add beauty and value. They encourage communities to enjoy connecting outdoors with wellbeing. Research continues to prove a positive connection between nature and thriving communities. Residents spend more time outside enjoying the view as the seasons evolve. I am personally looking forward to walking paths, benches and naturalistic gardens for my community to enjoy.

I am proud of the efforts in my community to beautify our public spaces. Education is the best way to encourage the residents to work with nature. Some of the older trees which had disease and decay have been removed. Younger, healthier native varieties that are beneficial for the community have taken their place.

Tree and garden installations are occurring nationwide. Research continues to prove how beneficial this is to any community. As we reclaim and enhance our communities for the greater good. These plantings add beauty and value. They encourage communities to enjoy connecting outdoors with wellbeing. Research continues to prove a positive connection between nature and thriving communities. Residents spend more time outside enjoying the view as the seasons evolve. I am looking forward to walking paths, benches, and naturalistic gardens for my community to enjoy.

Philadelphia always invites us to get excited about Spring!

Encouraging others to unite by gardening was this year’s theme. This theme was artfully defined with impactful and educational exhibits found at the Philadelphia Flower Show. Gardening is a way of uniting those of us who dare to get our hands dirty.

Here are a few displays I captured by taking photos …

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I can imagine creating and hanging these in a big window or on a mantle.
Color pops and welcomes all to come outside!
The vibrancy of this color palette is quite inviting.

I suggest attending the Philadelphia Flower Show every year.

Philadelphia is merely a road trip away for most…

Amtrak is the most relaxing way to go. I figured this out after years of driving, paying tolls, and avoiding potholes. A weekend getaway offers the opportunity to see the show at your leisure, alone or with friends. There are hotel packages offered to encourage getting to know Philadelphia. Reading Terminal Market is located across the street from the Philadelphia Convention Center. This unique market offers an assortment of items from food to crafts.

Check out the display presentation to see exactly what gardens you have experienced in Philadelphia. If you have seen them all…revisit your favorites. I never tire of the gardens in and near Philadelphia. This city has much to offer at any time of the year. The City of Philadelphia offers more than just Cheese Steaks, it has gardens as well. Usually there are a few Philadelphia Flower Show trips offered locally. Check your local travel listings.

The seasonal bliss shared annually is the medicine we need as winter slowly slips away. As I write this, you have three more days to see this year’s show.

Sigh…sitting here dreaming of the 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

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