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Pollinate – Spreading the Love of Gardening

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Cottage In The Court
Cottage In The Court believes in stimulating conversation to pollinate the mind about all things gardening.

Pollinate, as defined by Merriam Webster is a verb. It means – to give (a plant) pollen from another plant of the same kind so that seeds will be produced. I compare garden podcasting as a way to pollinate the mind. As a garden communicator, I have recently found joy outside the garden, as a podcaster. In my opinion, podcasting is a way of pollinating my listener’s minds, thereby sowing seeds to encourage gardening.

POLLINATE BY PODCAST

Just like the garden, this world of podcasting is diverse. Each podcast has a style that reaches the mind of the listener. Depending on your style, there is a podcast where information is shared which fits your taste. The perception that there is only one way to learn about the garden is as extinct as the dinosaur. Here are a few local ways that podcasting is a conduit to pollinate the mind.

WORDS, PEOPLE, PROSE

I love to read, meet all types of people, visit great gardens, and well, a good poem always brings me joy. Anchor.fm is the allotment where I plant a few seeds. It is on this platform I share people in horticulture, poetry, or a few words about finding the beauty that surrounds us. I try to introduce others to the coolest plants people, horticulturists, plants, books, and whatever else I find interesting. Of course, it is called Cottage In The Court.

It is all about the garden in my world. I must warn you…my world is truly the world. My best friend is an affordable trip to a garden, of course! Why not listen here. Subscribe…I have so much to share!!

GARDENS’N’PLANTS…OH MY!

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Two garden communicators talking about what’s growing in their gardens, places they have been, and things to do in the DMV.

This is a collaborative podcast that a friend of mine, Peggy Riccio of PegPlants.com, and I are growing. Together we co-host, Gardens’nPlantsPodcast where we talk about what is going on in our gardens, places we visit, and activities throughout the DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia). We are two Garden Communicators and members of GardenComm, International who share our love of gardening. It is a great way to know what is blooming, where to go, and activities that embrace gardening. At the moment we are bi-weekly. However, as we begin to move about freely, you just might hear from us a bit more. You can listen to us here. Subscribe…we are growing!

WAIT A MINUTE…HOE ON!

The world of garden podcasting world is amazing. The University of Maryland has even been bitten by the bug!! Proving that collaborative efforts are meaningful The Garden Hoes are a thing. These hosts have some serious “garden cred”.

Emily Zobel, Mikaela Boley, and Rachel Rhodes are The Garden Hoes. A podcast supported by the University of Maryland is chock full of certified, verified information anyone can use. Once a month The Garden Hoes disseminate information that is seasonally appropriate. There is also a Q&A email to ask and get qualified answers about the garden. The University of Maryland has so much to offer, subscribe, and stay in the know!!

NATIVELY SPEAKING…

John Magee is a successfully transplanted garden communicator in the DMV. He is quite the resource when considering what to plant for the insects we need to pollinate our gardens.

For a discussion about natives, my friend John Magee hosts The Native Plant Podcast. First of all, for over 20 years, John Magee has earned the recognition and respect of his peers in the world of horticulture. John is known for designing sustainable, as well as eco-friendly spaces. On his podcast, John delves deeply into native plants, truly cool people, and discussions on ecology. You really learn a lot about the topics, as well as the people John chooses for The Native Plant Podcast. If you subscribe, I promise you will not want to miss an episode.

WASHINGTON GARDENER MAGAZINE…AND PODCAST TOO!

Washington Gardener Magazine is a part of the Washington DC landscape. This magazine is one of the reasons many in the Mid Atlantic have discovered the joy of gardening. Beginners, as well as seasoned gardeners, have looked to Washington Gardener magazine to pollinate thoughts of bodacious gardens. Now, Kathy Jentz has been bitten by the bug. GardenDCPodcast is where one can find plant profiles, seed swap discussions, voices of people in horticulture, and more. Remember…subscribe and follow.

When resources are needed to amplify the voice of gardening, there are many I can name. There is a community of garden communicators who are unique. Each has diverse listeners, with similar interests, and different listening styles. Just like the insects that pollinate our gardens, each listener will have a different perspective on how they want information delivered. From Blogs, talks, interviews, and now podcasts to pollinate our minds…gardening just got better!

Here are a few other podcasts you might want to listen to:

Plantrama.com, The Gardenangelists, Cultivating Space, Steven Biggs, …just a few of my favorites. Pollinate your need to garden and listen to a podcast on gardening. Don’t forget to subscribe!! It is a great way to feed the soul.

Putting on my headset, turning on the microphone, and chatting with friends who pollinate my heart,

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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National Public Gardens – Thank You

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National Public Gardens Week as we practice social distancing is more important this year than ever!

Did you know that National Public Gardens Week started May 8th and will end May 17th?? Although this is the week designated to celebrate our Public Gardens nationwide, we can celebrate this week as long as we want!

PURPOSE IN THE MIDST OF THE MADNESS

Right now, many of us are longing to stroll in the Public Gardens that are familiar to us. Due to the ongoing health crisis, many have shuttered their doors and locked their gates. This is for the safety of the general public…it does not mean that they are closed. You see, man cannot shutdown beauty! The garden draws us in. Creative methods encourage participation from afar, not distancing us from engaging with nature.

Many of the National Public Gardens have found a way to share. They are sharing to keep us sane. During this time of unintentional pausing, our National Public Gardens continue to show us how important they are.

Tired of looking at your four walls? Your garden needs a lift, but you have no idea of what plant will tickle your fancy? Haven’t a clue about what is blooming outside of your own back forty? Need some inspiration? Log on and check out how some of the National Public Gardens share craft ideas, coloring book pages, lectures, and more!

ADVENTURES WITHOUT LUGGAGE

National Public Gardens take us away. Sometimes it is to visit local greenspaces, while some gardens might not be so local. Imagine attending a walking tour at Bellevue Botanical Gardens. You could revisit as many times as you want and watch a new season evolve…all without a security check. This is called an armchair adventure.

Did you know you could follow the Madison Square Park Conservancy in New York via Instagram? They have a Summer Global Arts display that is quite intriguing. You can even ask questions, which they are more than happy to answer.

Calling all Snow Birds!! Not able to escape to Florida this year?? No worries!! Naples Botanical Garden wants to connect with you!! They miss you! Click here to see all the fun they have lined up – sunscreen not required!

American Public Gardens has a listing that will keep you entertained all yearlong even after we can move about freely!!

DREAMING OF BEAUTY…LOCALLY

One local National Public Garden is the United States Botanic Gardens. One of my favorite National Public Gardens in my own neck of the woods. I could hide out here all year long.

Did you know the Smithsonian Gardens include 12 unique gardens to explore and enjoy?? If you follow me on Instagram (@cottageincourt), I stalk the United States Botanic Gardens. There is always something to catch my eye, which is visible from the street.

Some days, no matter how bad I try to rush home, the gardens call my name. To be honest, it is the perfect place to restore my mind, refurbish my soul, and reset my disposition after a long day in the office. I am so thankful for all of our National Public Gardens as they lift our spirits, creating opportunities to escape from the madness, and for inspiring each of us to be better gardeners.

If you want to learn more about the Smithsonian Gardens, I highly recommend a wonderfully written book. A Guide to Smithsonian Gardens by Carole Ottesen. Exploring the Smithsonian from the outside adds value to visiting the museums. L’Enfant’s design and plan for Washington D.C. were to include monumental buildings with beautiful gardens. As we know the buildings are exquisite. However, the gardens were slowly created over time, due to funding. Most of the gardens flank the National Mall.

Andrew Jackson Downing, a landscape designer, did not embrace the thought process of Mr. L’enfant’s initial plan. Mr. Downing, instead, designed four public garden rooms, which would resemble a living tree and shrub museum.

This plan was shelved as the Civil War took precedence, over all things beautiful. There were other ideas that slowly became a reality as more museums were built, with some including unique gardens.

CONSTITUTION GARDENS…EVER CLOSE TO MY HEART

With support from public and private donations, Constitution Gardens will be the perfect place to gather.

Constitution Gardens is one garden that never became a reality. Thanks to the efforts of the Trust for the National Mall, one day this will be not just a beautiful garden. With not just a garden, but planned concessions stands, a restaurant, and more, Constitution Gardens will also be a place to gather. Redesigned and embracing sustainability, Constitution Gardens needs to be a part of the dream fulfilled. To find out how to support this effort click here

THANK YOU

National Public Gardens can be found right at your fingertips.

My hope is that no matter where you are, a visit to a National Public Garden is in your future. Right now, most can be found right at your fingertips. Many are offering mini visits, little known backstories, discounts on membership, as well as presenting information on what to expect when a visit is possible. Should you visit a National Public Garden, make sure to say Thank You for inspiring, educating, and being!

Waiting to visit National Public Gardens later this year…

Dreaming of re-entry to the gardens at the United States Botanic Gardens…

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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African American Heritage In Urban Agriculture

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African American heritage includes many things passed down from generation to generation. Heritage, for many African Americans, is rooted in the garden.

The definition of heritage according to Merriam Webster is something transmitted by or acquired from a predecessor. Each of us has something that has been passed down. Our culture embraces our heritage by language and even mannerisms. The foods we eat are part of our culture. The way we garden can be determined by our cultural differences.

African American heritage in the garden is very special to me. What we grow and why we grow is important. How we use what we grow is part of our culture. Plant and food crops have always played a role in our heritage. This is not just an African American practice. It is a cultural practice embraced by many ethnic groups.

VILLA LEWARO

Villa Lewaro in Irvington, New York. Madam C.J. Walker left her mark as a part of the African American story. It is currently in the throes of renovations. Upon completion, Villa Lewaro will become a Think Tank for the next generation of Women of Color.

February brought a few events to my attention that focused on African American history and heritage. The first was a presentation at Hillwood Museum, Home and Gardens on Villa Lewaro. Presented by A’Lelia Bundles, the history of this magnificent home was not just a story. This story is part of her heritage. Sharing the story of the success of Madam C.J. Walker – her struggles, success, and legacy – was truly music to my ears. Having visited the grounds of this magnificent estate, it was a delight to hear details about this successful woman. I must say, MadamWalker chose the right spot for a view of the Hudson River from above.

Villa Lewaro is not open to the public and is currently under renovation. Plans are for Villa Lewaro to be a Think Tank for Women of Color. I am sure Madame C.J. Walker is proud to have her estate become a part of the African American story.

NEW BLACK FARMERS MOVEMENT

February is traditionally known as African American history month. A month where we celebrate our history and heritage. There are several local voices that celebrate African American heritage on urban farms. Some farms found in the most unexpected places, feeding the heart of the farmers who touch the land.

Growing and eating from the land has been a longstanding practice in many cultures. It is directly in alignment with the heritage of many African Americans. The hand to the land connection via farming truly reflects our heritage. African American heritage is rooted in the earth.

New Brooklyn Farms Owner, Doug Adams. This young man is changing the dynamics of Urban Farming Policy in the DMV.

Attending an event sponsored by the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association (MOFFA) was delightful. This winter meeting was one of the highlights of February. Moderated by Doug Adams, New Brooklyn Farms, the discussion on “The New Black Farmer” was a needed conversation.

Atiya Wells, Director of BLISS Meadows with her husband, Kieron George, and the Farm Manager, John Walker.

It was refreshing to hear Atiya Wells describe her story. She preferred to consider her journey as one of a “Returning Generation Farmer”. Historically, African American farmers have had difficulty holding onto our land. Migration removed us from the land or we simply lost interest in connecting with our history and heritage.

Atiya is working in the community to teach others how to reconnect to the land. Backyard Basecamp located in Baltimore, Maryland teaches the importance of being outdoors. As Director of Bliss Meadows, Atiya is on a mission as she raises her family. Atiya is leading an effort to preserve 10 acres of land to connect People of Color to their agricultural heritage.

Ann Livingston, Owner, Deep Root Farm, LLC. Growing not just fabulous organic produce, but a second location as well.

Heritage played a role in why Ann Livingston became an organic farmer. Owner of DeepRoot Farm, LLC. Ann’s Guyanese roots recognized the need of finding familiar cultural foods. From Long Beans, Malabar Spinach, Red Roselle and Bitter Melons, Ann is an Organic Farmer. Growing these food crops has enabled Ann to grow and expand her farm. Deep Roots is currently in the final phase of purchasing a second location. This will enable her to offer more Organic food options. Who knew that there was a way to acquire land utilizing a government program for Minority Women Farmers.

How about a way of connecting technology with native produce from West Africa? John Manirakiza has figured out a way to do just that!

John Manirakiza sees a need and is working on growing a solution. Some might know John as one of the area’s leaders in growing specialty crops from West Africa. John manages the Ethnic Crop Research program at the University of the District of Columbia. Helping the local West African immigrant community find foods that reflect their heritage is a beautiful thing. John is currently working on an app – @ojaexpress. This app will deliver ethnic groceries via an online platform. What a unique way to respect one’s heritage. Staying connected with identifiable cultural roots.

If you are in touch with the Urban Agriculture scene, you have seen Michelle Nelson. Doing what she does best – empowering others connected with the earth to know their WHY.

Michelle Nelson is the living definition of Agriculture Policy Change Maker in the Washington Metropolitan area. A strong voice in changing the way urban agriculture exists in the DMV, Michelle is a busy young woman. She is the Urban Agriculture Youth Program Leader for After-School-Allstars in Washington, DC. and the Community Garden Program Manager in Maryland.

Michelle encourages others to seek help, attend workshops, and inquire about Urban Agriculture offerings. We can just call her “Connector”. Michelle understands how our heritage plays a role in connecting heritage and identity. Each of these powerful voices was well-received by all attendees. This was a day of information and inspiration.

Do you consider your heritage in the garden? Is it all about food or is it about visual beauty as well? Are you growing plants that are culturally familiar?

Dreaming of Celosia, Hydrangeas, and Marigolds…all part of my personal heritage.

Teri, Cottage In The Court


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Spring Self Care for Gardeners

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Spring blooming trees add color to an otherwise bleak landscape…

Spring has sprung. When I walk Precious it is dark, but not as dark as last week. I could feel Spring embracing me. It was warmer, the air felt lighter, the birds were singing and the woodpecker chorus was in full swing. In the distance, the moon in it’s waxing crescent shined a bit of light along the way. I knew the presence of Spring was near.

One of my patio planter’s has new residents. A smattering of Rainbow chard, a small gathering of Longstanding Spinach, kohlrabi, and of course Heirloom carrots for good measure. Cool season vegetables planted in Spring paves the way for experimenting with different summer vegetables. Trying new things is always a treat. For most gardeners, Spring is the busiest time of the year!!

Viola’s welcome Spring as they try to outshine each other. It’s not important to outshine, it is important to be the best you can be. Self-satisfaction is key.

In the midst of our seasonal madness, we sometimes forget Self Care. Here are a few tips for Springtime Self Care:

  • Stretch daily. After nesting most of the winter, our limbs might not be as pliable as they once were. Especially as we age, stretching can aid in breathing better and delaying the need for ointments and creams to ease sore muscles.
  • Hydrate often. As we walk through our landscapes, forest bathe or visit public gardens we can be distracted and ignore the need for food and drink. All the pretty flowers, garden trinkets and beautiful new containers that we “NEED”…not so fast. We need to stay hydrated now, so the habit of carrying fresh water throughout the season is second nature. Taking a break to just sit outside, have a snack and absorb some Vitamin D is like feeding your soul.
  • Shop sensibly. I am so guilty of needing everything that catches my eye. I also just purged my house after renovations. If there is no plan, think about it first. Use your phone, take a photo, go home, and consider the possibilities BEFORE you buy.
  • Reuse-Recycle-Reduce. Before throwing away a pot with a chip, can you ant something that will drape over to cover up the imperfection? Why throw away a perfectly usable but imperfect container? Those wine bottles, inverted make a great edging for a border (mine is 6 years old now with no breakage).
  • Be a Localper as often as possible. I pride myself as I make every effort to shop with local smaller garden centers. By doing so, it really helps the local economy and you can curate a garden community of folks who KNOW you. What a terrific way to grow a garden community on a local level.
  • Support local events as well as local Garden Clubs. Now we are really talking community. There are talks, trips, plant swaps, tool trades and more. After all, garden life is all about building a growing conversation on gardening and growing.

    Quiet time alone is a way to settle the mind, connect with your inner self and just bask in the beauty that surrounds us.

Take care of yourself this Spring. By the time summer comes, you will be ready to take on another season of garden bliss!

Carefully restraining myself as I anticipate a colorful Spring!

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MANTS -Winter Networking

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MANTS was the perfect place in the midst of winter to introduce a new name GARDENCOMM formerly known as the Association of Garden Writers and Communicators.

Winter warm-up could have multiple meanings depending on where you live. As a garden writer, winter warm-up means gearing up for the seasons ahead. In the Mid-Atlantic, the horticulture community looks forward to an event called MANTS.

A BIT OF HISTORY

The Maryland and Virginia Nurseryman’s Association saw a need to create a way for the horticulture community to connect. The conversation evolved and became a reality in 1970. In 1972, a trifecta was created when the West Virginia Nurseryman’s Association joined this partnership. Traveling to different locations, within Maryland and Virginia a final home was found. Baltimore has been the home for MANTS since 1981. If you are in the Trade and it’s January, most likely you are looking forward to attending the Mid Atlantic Nursery and Trade Show.

The Mid-Atlantic Nursery and Trade Show is the season opener for those interested in the earth.  MANTS hosts vendors that provide items for horticulture professionals. Looking for the latest in heavy equipment or automated watering systems,? Need to know what plants or hand tools will be hot items this year?  Attending  MANTS offers answers to these questions and so much more.

WHAT’S NEW?

This year, it was the perfect opportunity to introduce a new name for The Association of Garden Writers and Communicators. Our new name is GardenComm International. Our new name says more about who we really are. GardenComm will not change the definition of who we are, but further, define what we do. GardenComm International members come to MANTS to connect, get the scoop on what is new and trending, as well as network.    Vendors like Brent & Becky’s Bulbs, Botanical Interests, and Autocrop USA, can be found in one huge room with many other vendors.

Connecting with Peggy Riccio, Pegsplant.com is always a delight as we share the MANTS experience.

Moving from vendor to vendor, meeting friends new and old along the way. The excitement builds as the new season’s merchandise catches the eye. This is the inspiration which inspires the communicator within. There is something about knowing what Ball Seed is offering for the home gardener. What is the hot item from David Austin Roses? Wondering who wrote a top-selling book?  What will the latest “need” be in hand tools? Think MANTS. This event is like a three-day world’s fair of horticulture.

STATISTICALLY SPEAKING

This year 48 states, 16 foreign countries, 11,600 attendee’s including exhibitors were reflected in this Masterpiece of Tradeshows. This event started with 64 vendors in 1970, and it has grown by leaps and bounds. In 2020, MANTS officially turns fifty years young. I am certain that on its golden anniversary, there will be a celebration to share in its success. The dates for the 2020 MANTS Event is January 8 – 10, 2020. With sponsors like State Nursery and Landscape Associations of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, it stands to reason that this IS the Masterpiece of Tradeshows in horticulture. A special mention, 2019 had the highest number of attendees in 11 years.

MANTS provides the environment for Encore Experiences, season after season!

CULTIVATING BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

MANTS means business! Not just their slogan, but a fact. Need to know about David Austin roses? Just visit their booth…

I am looking forward to visiting the David Austin Rose Garden in England in August…a true Garden Experience. MANTS inspires me to seek all things beautiful…

For the large landscaping company to the boutique garden shop, something for most can be found at MANTS. Need a few exquisite pots, lightweight, functional and quite handsome? There is a booth for that…

Pennoyer Newman, Distinctive Garden Pots are cast from Estate origins. This vendor has some of her work at the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, DC. Who knew? You can find just about anything at MANTS!

Find yourself not knowing what to anticipate about garden trends? Ready to discover new plants? Wondering where you can find garden art? Want to connect with vendors providing garden travel?

Herb Frazier and Kirk Brown will have you wanting to visit Magnolia Plantation, in South Carolina, as soon as possible. It truly is a place of beauty.

I strongly suggest you consider attending the Mid-Atlantic Nursery and Trade Show.

SAVE THE DATE 

Why not mark your calendar now?

 

Mentally  The Garden,

Teri, Cottage In The Court

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