Category: Home & Garden

Expert Picks: Long-Blooming Perennials for Sunny Gardens in the Pacific Northwest

‘Lemon Queen’ lavender cotton

Name: Santolina neapolitana ‘Lemon Queen’

Zones: 5b–10
Size: 2 to 3 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun; average to dry, well-drained soil
Native range: Western and central Mediterranean

I had never fallen in love with a lavender cotton until I met this one. Gone are the acid-yellow flowers common to most of the species. ‘Lemon Queen’ has lovely gray-green foliage and creamy button flowers that sit rigidly at the edges of the plant. The color combination and feathery foliage texture is sublime. This long-blooming sun perennial grows into a neat dome the first season, and thereafter it can be cut back just above the woody stems to keep it from splaying apart. Pruning is a delightfully fragrant affair. I shape it in early spring, then do a second cut in late summer after it blooms. This encourages another flush of flowers that lasts until the first frost. Plant it with other drought-tolerant perennials for a relaxed but sophisticated border.

Photos courtesy of the contributor unless noted otherwise.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Pruning Simplified: A Step-by-Step Guide to 50 Popular Trees and Shrubs

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Pruning Simplified shows you exactly how to do it. This must-have guide offers expert advice on the best tools for the job, specific details on when to prune, and clear instructions on how to prune. Profiles of the 50 most popular trees and shrubs—including azaleas, camellias, clematis, hydrangeas, and more—include illustrated, easy-to-follow instructions that will ensure you make the right cut the first time.

Dramm 17050 50′ ColorStorm 1/2″ Standard Soaker Hose

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Provides sufficient amounts of water to the garden without the hassle of hand watering
– Conveniently waters garden and beds
– 50 ft. by 1/2 inch diameter made from recycled material; lifetime guarantee
– Made in the USA

XLUX Soil Moisture Meter

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Large and clear dial, including ten scales, plug and read
– Simply insert the moisture meter into soil and you’ll get the test result instantly
– Single probe, less hurts to the roots, doesn’t dig up too much soil after test

Expert Picks for Long-Blooming Sun Perennials to Grow in the Southwest

If you’re looking for plants that provide blooms all season long, these expert picks for the Southwest are sure to brighten your garden. Discover four long-blooming sun perennials that thrive in the region’s hot, dry conditions, bringing reliable color to sunny beds and borders from summer into fall.

See more regional picks: Plants for Birds in the Southwest

‘Gold on Blue’ prairie zinnia

Name: Zinnia grandiflora ‘Gold on Blue’

Zones: 4–8
Size: 8 to 10 inches tall and 18 inches wide
Conditions: Full sun; lean, dry, well-drained soil
Native range: Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America

This wonderful long-blooming desert perennial is extremely tough and adaptable. Hardy up to 6,200 feet in elevation, it is ideal for high desert and xeric plantings. It will flourish in the most challenging soil conditions, including alkaline and clay, and also thrives in the heat. I prefer to plant ‘Gold On Blue’ en masse to attract and support pollinators throughout the summer. As a low-maintenance plant that is resistant to foragers, it is a delightful addition to rock gardens or xeriscape settings, and the perfect ground cover at the edges of pathways. Gardeners will enjoy the beauty of ‘Gold On Blue’ while hardly having to think about maintenance. Stems can be cut back in fall or early summer, but this easy task is completely optional.

Granita^® Orange ice plant

Name: Delosperma ‘PJS02S’

Zones: 5–8
Size: 1 to 2 inches tall and 10 to 14 inches wide
Conditions: Full sun; average to dry, well-drained soil
Native range: Hybrid of African species

Granita^® Orange ice plant is an uncharacteristically long-blooming perennial. While most ice plants only flower for up to four weeks in spring or summer, this show-stopper keeps going from spring until fall. Its flowers also have a delightful iridescent orange color that is rare to find in a ground cover. The blooms provide nectar for bees and other beneficial pollinators. With its low water and maintenance needs, it begs to be planted in rock gardens, cactus gardens, or xeric “heat island” garden beds. Be sure to plant it in a location with well-drained soil that is at least 50% sand to allow for the roots to spread and thrive. Rabbits, deer, and other foraging wildlife will nibble on it if they get a chance, so it is best to site it in a protected garden or courtyard.

Pikes Peak Purple^® penstemon

Name: Penstemon ‘P007S’

Zones: 4b–8
Size: 14 to 18 inches tall and 12 to 14 inches wide
Conditions: Full sun; average to dry, well-drained soil
Native range: Hybrid of North American species

This heat-loving penstemon flowers from June through August and maybe longer, depending on your location. Its stunning purple blooms will be a wonderful addition to your xeric garden, where they will draw in hummingbirds and other pollinators throughout the summer. You can extend the flowering period by deadheading old blooms and periodically aerating the soil around the root zone with a spading fork. This penstemon is resistant to foragers. I like to plant it in masses with other Mexicali hybrid varieties, which come in a range of lovely colors. If you allow the seed heads to dry on the stems, it will readily self-sow; simply thin out any undesired seedlings in spring.

Windwalker^® Royal Red salvia

Name: Salvia darcyi × microphylla ‘PWIN03S’

Zones: 5–9
Size: 3 to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
Conditions: Full sun; average to dry, well-drained soil
Native range: Hybrid of species native to the southwestern United States and Mexico

Windwalker^® Royal Red salvia is a fast-growing, showy delight, and one of my very favorite garden plants. It flowers abundantly from June until the first frost, with sensational cherry-red blooms that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators from a distance. It is as tough as it is beautiful and thrives in some of the hottest locations: against walls, in rocky crevices, along sidewalks, or on parking islands. It is an extremely easy plant to maintain and is resistant to foragers, but it does prefer a location with some wind protection, like a courtyard or fenced garden. It will grow tall and wide, so give it plenty of room to spread its wings.

Expert: Mark G. Brotton, CPLD, is co-owner and principal designer at Living Water Irrigation & Landscape in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

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Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Pruning Simplified: A Step-by-Step Guide to 50 Popular Trees and Shrubs

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Pruning Simplified shows you exactly how to do it. This must-have guide offers expert advice on the best tools for the job, specific details on when to prune, and clear instructions on how to prune. Profiles of the 50 most popular trees and shrubs—including azaleas, camellias, clematis, hydrangeas, and more—include illustrated, easy-to-follow instructions that will ensure you make the right cut the first time.

Gilmore Rubber Hose Washer 10pk

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Live red rubber construction, 3/4in. washers
– Clip of 10

XLUX Soil Moisture Meter

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Large and clear dial, including ten scales, plug and read
– Simply insert the moisture meter into soil and you’ll get the test result instantly
– Single probe, less hurts to the roots, doesn’t dig up too much soil after test

Expert Picks: Long-Blooming Sun Perennials for Gardens in the Southeast

If you’re looking for plants that provide blooms throughout the season, these expert picks for the Southeast are sure to brighten your garden. Discover four long-blooming perennials that thrive in the region’s heat and humidity, adding reliable color to your sunny beds and borders.

Find More Regional Picks: Native Plants for Summer Interest in the Southeast

‘Freedom’ Peruvian lily

Name: Alstroemeria ‘Freedom’

Zones: 5b–8
Size: 24 to 30 inches tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; fertile, well-drained soil
Native range: South America

If the running habit of other Peruvian lilies has scared you away from the genus, ‘Freedom’ is the plant for you. From June through early October, its compact, clumping stalks are topped by whorls of peachy-pink flowers with upper petals that are splashed with white highlights and red speckles. I find that the plants will look tidiest if they are cut back hard after the first wave of heavy flowering, but this midsummer maintenance is not necessary to keep them blooming all season. You can expect the plants to die back after frost to mostly evergreen rosettes, which will persist through the winter. If rabbits frequent your garden, beware—they seem to find Peruvian lilies quite tasty.

‘Glitz ‘n Glamour’ blanket flower

Name: Gaillardia aestivalis ‘Glitz ’n Glamour’

Zones: 6b–9
Size: 24 inches tall and 48 inches wide
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soil
Native range: Southern and south central United States

Talk about a long-blooming perennial—‘Glitz ’n Glamour’ blanket flower begins blooming in mid-May and continues on through heavy frost. Its split yellow petals surround a ball of fertile florets, which remain after the petals drop, eventually becoming fluffy white orbs. The flowers are pollinator magnets, while the spreading masses of aromatic foliage seem to deter deer and rabbits. Site ‘Glitz ’n Glamour’ in blazing sun and give it relatively well-drained soil for optimum performance. It may be helpful to shear the plants back to their basal foliage after they have been hit by frost; this should give them the best chance of overwintering.

‘Bubba’ desert willow

Name: Chilopsis linearis ‘Bubba’

Zones: 6–10
Size: 25 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun; average to dry soil
Native range: Southwestern United States and northern Mexico

‘Bubba’ desert willow is a fast-growing plant that can be maintained as a large shrub or allowed to develop into a small, multi-stemmed tree. This long-blooming perennial produces masses of large, fragrant, dark-pink and burgundy flowers backed by narrow deep green leaves from late May through September. ‘Bubba’ was selected for its intense flower color and treelike form, and although it is not quite seedless, it produces far fewer pods than the straight species. Desert willow is usually grown as a multi-trunk tree, but cutting it back hard each year in late winter will maintain it as a wide, shrubby plant that is around 8 feet tall. The flowers, which hummingbirds love, begin in mid-July and continue through late summer.

Thrive!^® rose

Name: Rosa ‘Sprothrive’

Zones: 5–9
Size: 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide
Conditions: Full sun; moist, well-drained soil
Native range: Hybrid

There aren’t many roses on the top of my list of great landscape plants, but this selection might make the cut. It has been an amazing garden plant with very disease-resistant, dark green foliage that remains full all the way down to the ground. Brilliant red, fragrant semi-double long-blooming flowers are produced from late April to frost and age to pink. Thrive!^® can be pruned in late winter if desired, but its restrained size and fullness means it rarely needs any trimming. This is a very low-maintenance and mostly pest-free shrub when it is grown in the landscape, but in a rose garden surrounded by other cultivars you can expect it to be affected by some of the same pests and diseases that plague nearby plants.

Regional expert: Mark Weathington is the director of the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University in Raleigh, North Carolina, and also the author of Gardening in the South: The Complete Homeowner’s Guide.

Photos courtesy of Mark Weathington/JC Raulston Arboretum

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Dramm 17050 50′ ColorStorm 1/2″ Standard Soaker Hose

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Provides sufficient amounts of water to the garden without the hassle of hand watering
– Conveniently waters garden and beds
– 50 ft. by 1/2 inch diameter made from recycled material; lifetime guarantee
– Made in the USA

Hunter Industries MP-1000-90 Hunter Nozzle

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– 8′ to 15′ radius with an adjustable arc of 90° to 210°, radius can be reduced by up to 25% to fit landscape needs
– Double-pop technology flushes the nozzle during start-up and shutdown to prevent clogging
– Wind-resistant, multi-directional streams provide even coverage

Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– 43-ft. spray distance (up to 5, 800 sq. ft. coverage)
– Adjustable collar for partial- to full-circle coverage
– Dial precisely sets spray distance
– On/off switch eliminates trips from sprinkler to spigot

Regional Picks: Long-Blooming Sun Perennials for Gardens in the Mid-Atlantic

If you’re looking for plants that provide blooms all season long—not just for a short time—these expert picks for the Mid-Atlantic are sure to brighten your garden. Discover four long-blooming perennials for sun that thrive in the region’s varied climate, adding reliable color to sunny beds and borders from summer into fall.

See more regional picks: Endangered Plants in the Mid-Atlantic

Summerlong™ Coral hyssop

Name: Agastache mexicana ‘Balsumlora’

Zones: 7–10
Size: 1½ to 2 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soil
Native range: Southwestern United States and Mexico

Part of the Summerlong^™ series of hyssops, which includes plants with a variety of vivid flower colors, Summerlong™ Coral features
stems covered with small tubular orange-pink blooms throughout most of the summer. These blossoms contrast nicely against the plant’s glaucous blue-green foliage. It’s resistant to deer browsing and is a magnet for many pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Plant this perennial in masses or combine it with other pollinator plants such as coneflowers (Echinacea spp. and cvs., Zones 3–9) and butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa, Zones 3–9). Summerlong^™ Coral is also an excellent drought-tolerant addition to waterwise gardens. Occasional deadheading will encourage even more flowering.

‘Limelight’ panicle hydrangea

Name: Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’

Zones: 3–8
Size: 6 to 8 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soil
Native range: Eastern and southern China, Japan, and Korea

‘Limelight’ panicle hydrangea has remained one of the most popular hydrangeas despite a wave of newer introductions appearing over the last 20 years. A recipient of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Gold Medal award, this extremely durable and long-blooming shrub can grow in urban areas and is tolerant of a variety of garden situations. In midsummer, cone-shaped lime-green flower panicles begin to emerge, reaching 6 to 8 inches long before turning white and then green again, sometimes with shades of pink to burgundy. Toward the end of the growing season, the flower heads fade to a tawny brown and can persist through winter. Like other selections of panicle hydrangea, ‘Limelight’ flowers on new wood and can therefore be pruned in late winter.

Related article: Best Hydrangeas for Stunning Fall Flowers

Phenomenal^® lavender

Name: Lavandula × intermedia ‘Niko’

Zones: 5–9
Size: 2 to 3 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soil
Native range: Hybrid

Phenomenal^® lavender is an incredibly versatile and long-blooming perennial for sun. In many regions it will develop a woody structure and perform like a shrub. It has a tight, compact habit and is covered in small, narrow silver-gray leaves. Both the foliage and the flowers are very fragrant, making it resistant to rabbits and deer. In most areas, it will be evergreen and add considerable winter interest. This lavender is typically hardy to Zone 5, but can be grown in Zone 4 if it has very well-drained soil. In summer it is covered in 3- to 4-inch-long spikes of fragrant blue-violet flowers that attract pollinators. It is drought and heat tolerant and will also thrive in climates where there is considerable humidity. At the end of winter, remove any old flower heads or dead stems. This is also a good time to do any structural pruning.

‘Zagreb’ threadleaf coreopsis

Name: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’

Zones: 3–9
Size: 1 to 1½ feet tall and 1½ to 2 feet wide
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soil
Native range: Southeastern United States

This compact selection of threadleaf coreopsis is covered in daisy-like, bright golden flowers that are 1 to 2 inches wide. Its fine and narrow leaves give it a great textural quality that combines well with the bolder foliage of plants such as hairy alumroot (Heuchera villosa, Zones 3–9) or ‘Caradonna’ salvia (Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’, Zones 4–9). It blooms throughout most of the summer, and old flowers can be trimmed back to promote more blooming. This native is both heat and drought tolerant. Because of its compact size, it is a great plant to add to the front of a perennial border, but over time it will spread into a fairly large mass. It’s also a desirable addition to a pollinator garden, where it will attract myriad insects.

Regional expert: Andrew Bunting is vice president of horticulture at the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Dramm 17050 50′ ColorStorm 1/2″ Standard Soaker Hose

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Provides sufficient amounts of water to the garden without the hassle of hand watering
– Conveniently waters garden and beds
– 50 ft. by 1/2 inch diameter made from recycled material; lifetime guarantee
– Made in the USA

Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Featuring gorgeous photography and advice for landscapers, Planting in a Post-Wild World by Thomas Rainer and Claudia West is dedicated to the idea of a new nature—a hybrid of both the wild and the cultivated—that can nourish in our cities and suburbs.

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

– Slim, lightweight design, is made with toxin-free polyurethane and utilizes industrial grade, lead-free fittings
– 3 Pounds
– 1200″L x 0.43″W
– Manufactured in the USA

Happy Friday, GPODers!

We’re ending the week in Northwest Indiana as we explore Rita Kirkendall’s gorgeous garden for the first time. Rita has planted up a dynamic landscape with lots of color and plenty of benefits for pollinators and wildlife—from a vibrant and bountiful array of annual blooms that pollinators adore, to a range of native plants that help support a host of local insects, birds, and small mammals. While it may seem like a tremendous feat to achieve this level of beauty and environmental benefit, the powerhouse team of Rita and her husband make it all look easy.

I’m Rita Kirkendall, gardening 34 years on a ¼-acre suburban lot in Northwest Indiana. I do the dreaming; my husband, John, does the building and tilling; then I do the planting and weeding. I tend to let Mother Nature lead the way—she has better ideas than I do. We are rewarded with a constant stream of color and beauty from the plants and all the critters they support.

Pollinator paradise: Here’s my vegetable garden, bordered in marigolds with half of it given over to zinnias, cosmos, dill, and borage (Borago officinalis, annual). That’s my dream potting shed, which hubby built for me, in the background. Its front porch provides a lovely spot to be mesmerized by all the activity.

Zinnia and butterflies: The butterflies and bees drawn by all those bloomers feed my eyes and heart as much as the veggies they pollinate feed our bellies.

Reading Doug Tallamy convinced me that organic gardening was not enough, and I began adding natives. This bed is just 2 years old, and the payoff has been astounding.

What a thrill to find this monarch caterpillar munching on butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa, Zones 3–9). Double the beauty! I’m seeing so many more caterpillars and butterflies these days.

Camouflage: This guy blends perfectly with the fading black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta, Zones 3–7). Mother Nature really knows what she’s doing.

Finch feast: Spent coneflowers provide a bounty for the finches. Messy to some, but we marvel at these cuties just feet away from our deck chairs.

Observation deck: This is where we spend so much time enjoying it all. Hubby built the deck too. Purple hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus, Zones 10–11 or as an annual) provides a light screen that brings in the hummingbirds.

Thank you so much for sharing your stunning garden with us for the first time, Rita! The way you and your husband have crafted a landscape for mutual human and wildlife benefit is admirable and enviable. I sincerely hope we get to see more photos from your garden in the future.

Reminder to all readers that we’re always looking for new gardens to feature on the blog. All experience levels accepted, gardens large and small are equally appreciated, and feel free to get creative with your photography. Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

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Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Featuring gorgeous photography and advice for landscapers, Planting in a Post-Wild World by Thomas Rainer and Claudia West is dedicated to the idea of a new nature—a hybrid of both the wild and the cultivated—that can nourish in our cities and suburbs.

Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden, Revised and Updated Second Edition: A Natural Approach to Pest Control

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

This revised and updated edition of Jessica Walliser’s award-winning Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden offers a valuable and science-backed plan for bringing balance back to the garden. With this indispensable gardening reference—now updated with new research, insights, and voices—learn how to create a healthy, balanced, and diverse garden capable of supporting a hard-working crew of beneficial pest-eating insects and eliminate the need for synthetic chemical pesticides.

isYoung Birdlook® Smart Bird Feeder with Camera

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Upgraded Dual Granary Bird Feeder. G11 Smart Bird Feeder with Camera – The upgraded dual granary design allows for separate food dispensing, giving birds the freedom to choose while preserving the food’s original taste. With a 2L extra-large capacity, it reduces the need for frequent refills. The drainage design ensures the food stays dry and prevents spoilage from rain. Ideal as a camera bird feeder for birdwatching enthusiasts. 2K HD Camera & Close-Up Bird Watching. Experience clear bird watching with the G11 smart bird feeder. This bird feeder with camera features a 170-degree wide-angle lens and a 1296P HD camera, ensuring vibrant images and videos. With AI-powered recognition, it can identify over 16,000 bird species (subscription required, first month free) and provides extensive birding knowledge. Its unique design helps attract more birds to your backyard. App Alerts & Super Night Vision. The smart bird feeder camera detects motion within 0.5 seconds and sends instant notifications through the “VicoHome” app. With a 2.4G Wi-Fi connection, you can view real-time updates on bird activity right from your app. The video bird feeder also features night vision, ensuring vibrant images and videos even in low light conditions. Ideal for wild bird feeders, this advanced functionality enhances your bird-watching experience day and night.

About to toss that cracked flower pot? WAIT! That “trash” might be your garden’s next showstopper.

I was shocked to discover that the average gardener discards over 20 plastic pots annually; that’s criminal when these forgotten vessels can become the most character-filled features in your outdoor sanctuary.

Ready to transform those dusty rejects into conversation pieces that’ll have your neighbors begging for your secrets?

Give Boring Pots a Vertical Twist (That Actually Saves Space!)

Forget what you’ve heard about needing fancy equipment for vertical gardens. Your stack of mismatched pots is all you need to create a stunning living wall that defies gravity and maximizes every inch of your garden.

The secret most plant experts won’t tell you is that vertical gardens made from repurposed pots actually perform better than expensive store-bought systems. The different pot sizes create natural moisture zones that benefit various plants.

• Quick hack: Secure pots to a wooden pallet with strong wire, staggering them for maximum plant exposure
• Pro move: Group plants with similar water needs together to simplify maintenance
• Best plants: Herbs, succulents, and trailing flowers like lobelia or wave petunias

Turn That Cracked Pot into a Bird Magnet

That pot with the massive crack down the side? It’s about to become a wildlife hotspot. Creating a DIY bird bath isn’t just economical. It’s a game-changer for your garden ecosystem.

Simply flip a large pot upside-down to create a pedestal, then secure a shallow pot saucer on top. Add a few stones for perching, and you’ve created a bird paradise that looks like it cost a fortune.

(Between us, birds actually prefer these handmade baths to store-bought ones. The textured surfaces give better grip for their tiny feet!)

From Shabby to Spectacular: Decorative Planter Transformations

Your plants deserve better than boring containers. Those old pots, even the chipped ones, can be transformed into spectacular decorative statements that showcase your creativity.

The difference between amateur and pro plant parents is simply their willingness to see potential where others see trash. Even the most damaged pot can become a masterpiece with these techniques:

• Mosaic magic: Adhere broken tiles or china pieces with outdoor adhesive
• Paint perfection: Use weather-resistant paints for patterns that pop
• Texture trick: Wrap pots in natural elements like rope or burlap for rustic charm

Create Enchanting Garden Lanterns (Without Spending a Dime)

Your garden deserves to be seen after dark. Transform terracotta pots into magical lanterns that cast enchanting patterns across your outdoor space, a technique that’s shockingly simple yet dramatic in effect.

Drill decorative patterns into the sides of old pots (think constellations, flowers, or geometric designs), place LED candles inside, and watch as your garden transforms into a fairytale setting each evening.

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These lanterns are particularly vibrant when placed along pathways or grouped in threes.

DIY Water Features That Look Professional

The most flourishing gardens have one thing in common: the soothing sound of water. Creating your own cascading water feature from old pots isn’t only possible, but remarkably simple.

Stack pots of decreasing size, thread tubing through drilled holes connecting to a small submersible pump, and you’ve built a tranquil water feature that looks like it required professional installation.

Your stressed plants will thank you. Studies show ambient water sounds can increase plant growth by creating a more humidity-rich microclimate.

Build a Whimsical Fairy Garden That Adults Secretly Love

Let’s be honest. Fairy gardens aren’t just for kids. These miniature worlds capture our imagination and bring a sense of wonder to any outdoor space. Old pots provide the perfect contained environment for creating these magical miniature landscapes.

Line a cracked pot with moss, add tiny plants like Irish moss or baby tears, and incorporate miniature accessories, such as pebble pathways or twig furniture.

The result? A pocket-sized wonderland that becomes an instant conversation starter. (Pro tip: broken pots with their “spilled” sections actually make more interesting fairy landscapes than perfect ones!)

Space-Saving Herb Spirals That Actually Improve Flavor

Most people make this mistake with their herbs: planting them all in the same conditions. Different herbs require varying environments to thrive and develop their maximum flavor.

Creating an herb spiral using stacked pots of various sizes isn’t just visually striking; it’s a genius way to create multiple growing microclimates in one compact feature.

The top stays drier (perfect for Mediterranean herbs like rosemary), while the bottom retains more moisture (ideal for basil and parsley). Your cooking will thank you for this arrangement, as properly grown herbs contain up to 40% more essential oils.

Tiny Compost Factories From Forgotten Pots

Your plants are desperately trying to tell you something: they’re starving for rich compost! Large cracked pots make perfect small-batch compost bins that process kitchen scraps into black gold faster than traditional heaps.

Drill aeration holes around the sides, add a mix of green and brown materials, and within weeks, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost that would cost $15+ per bag at garden centers. The confined space of a pot actually speeds decomposition by concentrating beneficial microbes.

Eye-Catching Succulent Displays That Thrive on Neglect

Succulents are like the supermodels of the plant world. They look spectacular with minimal effort. Old, shallow pots are their ideal showcase, especially when arranged in groups of complementary colors and textures.

The game-changer for your succulent display isn’t what you think it is. It’s all about the right gritty soil mix and strategic placement.

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Unlike other container gardens, these displays actually look better when slightly neglected. The stress brings out vibrant colors that perfectly watered specimens never develop.

Seasonal Pot Decorations That Change With the Calendar

Who says garden pots are just for plants? Empty pots can become the backbone of seasonal displays, keeping your garden looking fresh year-round with minimal effort.

Fill them with natural elements that celebrate each season: pinecones and evergreen boughs in winter, colorful gourds in fall, or floating flower displays in summer. This approach gives old pots a new purpose without requiring the commitment of planting.

Forget everything you thought you knew about growing herbs. That bag of potting soil collecting dust in your garage? You don’t need it!

Did you know that approximately 82% of kitchen herbs can thrive solely in water? It’s the gardening world’s best-kept secret, and I’m about to spill it all.

Why Growing Herbs in Water Is Your New Obsession

The game-changer for your kitchen herbs isn’t fancy soil or expensive fertilizers. It’s plain old H2O.

Water propagation (fancy talk for growing plants in water) isn’t just possible; it’s ridiculously easy and oddly addictive. Like watching Netflix, but you get fresh basil at the end.

I was surprised to discover that water-grown herbs often develop roots more quickly than their soil-bound counterparts.

Plus, there’s something magical about watching those little white roots appear, as if you have X-ray vision into nature’s process.

• No mess, no pests (goodbye, fungus gnats!)
• Crystal clear visibility to monitor root growth
• Perfect for apartment dwellers with limited space
• Spectacular for commitment-phobes (just change water, not repot)

The Easiest Herbs to Transform Your Kitchen into a Water Garden

1. Basil: The Kitchen Superstar

Basil is the overachiever of water propagation, sprouting roots faster than a teenager grows out of shoes. Snip a 4-inch cutting, pop it in water (keeping leaves high and dry), and within 7-14 days, you’ll have roots.

The difference between amateur and pro plant parents is simply changing the water every few days to prevent slime buildup.

Pro Tip: Pinch off flower buds to keep your basil focused on producing delicious leaves instead of making seeds.

2. Mint: The Overachiever

Your mint is trying to tell you something important: “I want to take over everything!” In soil, mint is the botanical equivalent of that friend who overstays their welcome.

In water? It’s perfectly contained while still delivering that refreshing punch for your mojitos.

Place a 3-4 inch cutting in water, away from direct sun, and watch this vigorous herb flourish. It roots so easily you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with soil.

3. Green Onions: The Perpetual Motion Machine

The secret most plant experts won’t tell you is that those green onion stubs you’ve been tossing are actually botanical gold. Simply place the white root ends in water, and they’ll regrow faster than your Netflix shows auto-play.

Change the water every 3-5 days, and you’ll have an endless supply. It’s like printing your own money, but legal and delicious on potatoes.

4. Cilantro: Love It or Hate It (But Easy to Grow)

Cilantro is the controversial rockstar of the herb world. While people debate its taste, there’s no arguing how easy it grows in water. Take 4-6-inch cuttings, place them in cool water away from direct sunlight, and within weeks, you’ll have roots.

Most people make this mistake with their cilantro: they give up too soon! Cilantro roots more slowly than some herbs, but patience delivers that distinctive flavor that makes or breaks your salsa.

5. Parsley: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Parsley isn’t just a sad garnish on your restaurant plate. It’s a vitamin bomb waiting to explode in your cooking! Growing it in water means you’ll always have this immune-boosting herb on hand.

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A cutting 4-6 inches long, in bright, indirect light, will develop roots in about two weeks. Your immune system will thank you later. (Did you know parsley has more vitamin C than oranges by weight? Talk about a tiny green superfood!)

6. Oregano: Mediterranean Vacation in a Glass

Bring the essence of the Greek islands to your windowsill with oregano in water. This Mediterranean staple develops roots within 2-3 weeks from a simple 3-4 inch cutting.

Oregano thrives when its water is changed regularly; think of it as a spa treatment for your herbs. Your pizza, pasta, and anything tomato-based will never be the same!

7. Rosemary: The Patient Aromatic

Rosemary is the herb equivalent of that friend who takes forever to text back; slow to start, but worth the wait. Take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long, strip the bottom leaves, and place it in a sunny spot.

Fair warning: Rosemary can take 3-4 weeks to root, testing your patience like a meditation practice. But the fragrant reward transforms everything from roasted potatoes to grilled meats.

8. Thyme: Tiny Leaves, Massive Flavor

Forget what you’ve heard about thyme being finicky! In water, this tiny-leaved flavor bomb develops roots with surprising vigor. A cutting 3-4 inches in length, when placed in bright indirect light, will develop roots in 2-3 weeks.

Thyme’s leaves might be small, but they pack a flavor punch that can rescue bland dishes faster than a superhero saves the day.

9. Sage: The Sophisticated Sipper

Sage is the distinguished gentleman of water propagation. It takes its time and expects proper treatment. A 4-6 inch cutting needs bright light and regular water changes.

The earthy, robust flavor that develops makes it worth the wait of 3-4 weeks for the roots. Your stuffing, sausages, and brown butter sauces will never be the same.

10. Lemongrass: Tropical Vacation in a Glass

Transport yourself to Thailand without the airfare! Simply place a lemongrass stalk base in water, and watch as it transforms into a grassy fountain of citrusy goodness.

Within weeks, new shoots emerge like a botanical resurrection. Your soups, teas, and curries will thank you for this aromatic upgrade.

11. Chives: The Low-Maintenance Flavor Booster

Chives are the herb world’s equivalent of that reliable friend who’s always there when you need them. Place the root ends in water, and they’ll start regrowing within days. Sometimes visibly changes overnight!

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Snip the tops for garnishing everything from baked potatoes to scrambled eggs, and they’ll keep coming back like your favorite TV show that never gets canceled.

Master Tips for Water Propagation Success

• Change water every 3-5 days to prevent bacteria buildup
• Keep leaves above the waterline to prevent rot
• Use clear containers to monitor root development
• Start with healthy cuttings from established plants or store-bought herbs
• Place in bright, indirect light for most herbs (except those noted otherwise)

The miracle of water propagation isn’t just the free herbs. It’s watching nature’s spectacular process unfold right on your windowsill. Your kitchen isn’t just for cooking anymore; it’s your personal botanical laboratory where science meets dinner!

Ready to transform your kitchen into a vibrant herb garden without spending a fortune or dealing with dirt? Grab some scissors, raid your herb garden (or grocery store), and start your water garden today. Your future meals and wallet will thank you!

If you’ve been involved in a road accident, legal costs can quickly feel overwhelming. A no-win no-fee agreement removes that pressure by ensuring you only pay if your claim is successful.

This arrangement gives you the freedom to focus on recovery and move forward with confidence. Keep reading to find out what actually happens when you start a claim under this agreement, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.

Starting the claim

When you first contact a solicitor, they’ll review your case and decide if it has a reasonable chance of success. If it does, they may offer a no-win no-fee agreement, also known as a Conditional Fee Agreement. This means you don’t need to pay upfront legal costs.

For anyone pursuing a road traffic accident claim in Glasgow, this step is important because it gives you immediate access to legal support without the risk of financial loss if the case fails.

Building the case

Once the agreement is in place, the solicitor gathers evidence. This includes medical records, photos of the accident scene, and witness statements. They’ll also collect details of financial losses such as missed wages or vehicle repair costs.

Your solicitor then prepares a strong argument, showing how the accident happened and why the other party is responsible. This stage ensures that your claim is supported by facts and clear documentation.

Communicating with insurers

The next step involves the solicitor contacting the other driver’s insurer. They’ll present your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and push for a fair settlement. If liability is accepted, the focus moves to compensation. On the other hand, if liability is denied, your solicitor can escalate the case, and in some situations it may reach court.

Paying legal fees

A key feature of no-win no-fee is cost protection, meaning you won’t pay legal fees if the case is unsuccessful. If you win, the solicitor’s fee is usually recovered from the losing party, with a small percentage taken from your compensation. This setup ensures that you know what’s expected before the claim begins, removing the fear of hidden costs.

Settlement or court

Many road traffic claims settle before reaching court. This is often the quickest and least stressful outcome. However, if court action is needed, your solicitor will represent you and guide you through each step. They’ll keep you informed so that you understand what’s happening at every stage.

Whichever path your case takes, the no-win no-fee arrangement remains the same: you don’t pay if you lose, and you pay the agreed fee if you win.

Closing the claim

When the claim is resolved, whether by settlement or court decision, you’ll receive your compensation. This money covers things like medical treatment, lost income, and any other financial impact caused by the accident. Once your solicitor’s agreed fee is deducted, the rest is yours to support your recovery.

A no-win no-fee road traffic claim gives you a clear, safe route to justice. From the first meeting with your solicitor to the final settlement, you’ll always know where you stand. The process removes the pressure of upfront costs and gives you the chance to focus on your recovery. If you’ve been injured in a road accident, taking this step could be the support you need to move forward.

HI GPODers!

Today we have a very special submission from Cynthia Rowland in Modoc County, California. She is sharing the tragic story of Addilynne, a young girl who was taken too soon and the incredible sunflower garden that her mother created in her memory.

In the picturesque town of Modoc, a garden blooms with vibrant hues and heartfelt memories—a stunning display of multicolored sunflowers that encapsulates both beauty and sorrow. These sunflowers were not merely planted for aesthetic appreciation; they serve as a poignant memorial for a beloved 9-year-old girl lost too soon in a tragic car accident in November 2024. This article delves into the emotional journey behind the creation of this sunflower memorial, celebrating the life of a young girl and the resilience of a grieving mother.

The Heartbreak Behind the Blooms

The story begins with the devastating loss experienced by a local family whose world was turned upside down on a fateful day in November 2024. With dreams unfulfilled and a heart shattered, the mother found herself grappling with an unimaginable grief. To cope with her sorrow and keep the memory of her daughter alive, she turned to gardening—a pastime that had always brought her joy and solace.

In that moment of despair, she envisioned a garden filled with sunflowers, those bright and cheerful blooms that symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity. The act of planting, nurturing, and watching these flowers blossom became a therapeutic endeavor, allowing her to channel her pain into something beautiful and meaningful. Each sunflower that sprouted in Modoc became a symbol of her daughter’s spirit—joyful, vibrant, and full of life.

The Symbolism of Sunflowers

Sunflowers are more than just a pretty addition to a garden; they carry significant symbolic weight. Representing warmth, positivity, and loyalty, sunflowers are often considered a beacon of hope. Their ability to turn towards the sun reflects the pursuit of happiness and light even amid darkness—a fitting metaphor for a mother seeking to honor her daughter’s memory.

In many cultures, sunflowers are also seen as a reminder of the transient nature of life, echoing the sentiment that while we may lose our loved ones, their spirits can continue to shine brightly through our actions and memories. For the mother in Modoc, each blossoming petal served as a reminder of her daughter’s laughter and love—a way to celebrate her life rather than solely mourn her loss.

Creating the Memorial Garden

As spring approached, the mother set out to create her memorial garden. She carefully selected various types of sunflowers—some tall and sturdy, reaching for the sky, and others petite and delicate, showcasing a spectrum of colors from sunny yellows to deep oranges and rich reds. The garden became a tapestry of love, interwoven with her hopes and grief.

Nurturing the Garden and the Spirit

With the sunflowers planted, the mother embraced the journey of nurturing the garden. Each day, she tended to her flowers—watering them, pulling weeds, and speaking to them as if they were her daughter, sharing her thoughts and feelings. As the sunflowers grew, so did her healing process. The rhythmic routine of caring for the plants provided a comforting structure in a time when everything felt chaotic.

In the summer sun, the garden flourished, transforming the landscape into a golden sea of sunflowers that not only captivated visitors but also served as a sanctuary of remembrance. The scent of blooming flowers wafted through the air, inviting local families to visit and reflect on their own losses, finding solace in shared experiences of grief and remembrance.

Community Engagement: Spreading Awareness and Love

What began as a private tribute soon blossomed into a community initiative. The vibrant sunflower garden in Modoc caught the attention of local media, becoming a symbol of resilience and hope. With the mother’s permission, efforts were made to share her story, not just to honor her daughter but to bring awareness to the tragedies of road safety.

Conclusion: Blossoming Through Grief

The sunflower memorial in Modoc stands as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and community support in the face of loss. It teaches us that grief is a deeply personal journey, yet it is one best traversed with the help of others. Through her beautiful garden, the mother has not only honored her daughter’s memory but has also inspired a community to engage in meaningful conversations about loss, love, and remembrance.

As the sunflowers sway gently in the Modoc breeze, they carry whispers of hope and resilience—reminders that even in the darkest times, there is beauty to be found. The legacy of a joyful nine-year-old girl continues to bloom, nurtured by the hands of a devoted mother and embraced by a caring community. This memorial stands not only as a place of sorrow but as a vibrant celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit of those we’ve lost.

Thank you so much for sharing this special garden and your poignant words with us, Cynthia. Everyone here knows the powerful healing qualities of plants, and I’m sure many can relate to the experience of growing flowers that remind us of those we lost.

Visit their Facebook page to see more of this beautiful memorial: Memories of Addie.

Do you have a memorial planting in your garden? Is there a type of flower you collect because of its connection to a loved one? Let us know in the comments, or consider sharing your extra-special garden plants with the blog. Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

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Want to grow your own juicy, vine-ripened tomatoes without the fuss of seedlings, special equipment, or gardening experience?

What if I told you the secret to a thriving tomato garden was already sitting in your kitchen?

Get ready to have your gardening mind blown. The humble tomato slice might just be the game-changer your green thumb has been waiting for.

The Kitchen Scrap Secret Most Plant Experts Won’t Tell You

Forget what you’ve heard about needing special seeds or nursery-bought seedlings! The secret to growing spectacular tomatoes is literally hiding in plain sight. That tomato in your fridge? It’s not just lunch. It’s your entire future garden.

This method isn’t just easy. It’s ridiculously cost-effective. A single tomato can potentially yield dozens of plants, transforming a $2 piece of produce into what would otherwise cost $ 30 or more at a garden center.

And here’s something shocking: tomato plants grown from slices often develop stronger root systems than their nursery counterparts, making them more resilient in the long run.

(Trust me, your garden center might not be thrilled I’m sharing this!)

The Only Materials You’ll Need (Hint: You Already Have Them)

Ready to start your tomato revolution? Here’s your surprisingly simple shopping list:

• A ripe, healthy tomato (organic varieties work best as they haven’t been treated with germination inhibitors)
• A container with drainage holes (even an old yogurt container works!)
• Potting soil
• A sunny spot
• A sharp knife
• Water

That’s it! No special rooting hormones, no grow lights, no complicated seed-starting kits. Who knew gardening could be this accessible?

The 5-Minute Miracle Method That Actually Works

I was shocked to discover that this dead-simple process has a success rate that rivals professional growing methods. Ready to transform that tomato into tomorrow’s garden?

1. Slice it right: Cut your tomato into ¼-inch thick slices. Think of them as little garden discs packed with potential.
2. Prep your container: Fill it with potting soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
3. Plant with purpose: Lay the tomato slices flat on the soil surface, ensuring they don’t overlap. They need their personal space!
4. Tuck them in: Cover the slices with a thin ½-inch layer of soil. Think of it as a cozy blanket, not a heavy comforter.
5. Hydrate: Water gently – the soil should be as moist as a wrung-out sponge.
6. Find the sunshine: Place your container in a location that receives 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
7. Practice patience: Keep soil moist and watch for seedlings in 7-14 days.

The Magic Moment: When Tomato Slices Come to Life

There’s something almost miraculous about watching those first green shoots push through the soil.

Your tomato slices are essentially time capsules of gardening potential. Each seed inside is programmed with the complete genetic blueprint for a thriving tomato plant.

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When conditions are right, the seeds begin their transformation journey. The game-changer for your tomato garden isn’t fancy equipment.

It’s simply creating the perfect environment for nature to do what it’s been perfecting for thousands of years.

And get this: a single tomato slice can contain 20-30 viable seeds, meaning one tomato potentially creates a small army of plants!

5 Pro Tips to Take Your Slice-Grown Tomatoes From Surviving to Thriving

The difference between amateur and pro plant parents is simply knowing these game-changing tips:

1. Water consistently: Tomatoes are like toddlers; they thrive on routine. Aim for soil that’s consistently moist but never soggy. Irregular watering leads to stressed plants and cracked fruits.
2. Feed for flavor: Once your seedlings reach 4 inches in height, start fertilizing them every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Your plants will reward your attention with lush growth.
3. Prune strategically: Remove yellowing leaves and “suckers” (the small shoots that form in the crotch between main stem and branches). This improves air circulation and redirects energy to the production of fruit.
4. Support with love: As plants grow taller, provide stakes or cages. Think of it as giving your plant a backbone – they’ll stand proud with the weight of all those developing tomatoes!
5. Mulch matters: A 2-inch layer of mulch helps maintain soil moisture and temperature while preventing soil-borne diseases from splashing onto leaves.

Avoid These Deadly Tomato Sins (Your Plants Are Begging You)

Most people make this mistake with their tomatoes: they love them to death. Literally. Your tomato plants are trying to tell you something important when these problems appear:

• Drowning disasters: Overwatering causes more tomato deaths than underwatering. If leaves are yellowing from the bottom up, you’re being too generous.
• Cramped quarters: Those cute seedling clusters need thinning! Leave only the strongest 2-3 seedlings per container or space plants 24 inches apart in the garden.
• Shade sadness: Tomatoes need their vitamin D! Insufficient sunlight results in leggy, weak plants with pitiful fruit production.
• Soil neglect: Using garden soil in containers creates a dense, airless environment that suffocates roots. Always use proper potting mix.
• Fertilizer frenzy: Too much nitrogen creates gorgeous foliage but few tomatoes. When flowering begins, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium.

From Slice to Salad: Enjoying the Spectacular Harvest

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavor explosion of a sun-warmed tomato you’ve grown yourself. It makes store-bought tomatoes taste like distant, watery cousins of the real thing.

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When harvest time arrives, pick tomatoes when they’re fully colored but still firm. And here’s a pro tip: never refrigerate fresh tomatoes!

Cold temperatures destroy their flavor compounds. Instead, store them on the counter stem-side down to preserve their garden-fresh taste.

The ultimate reward isn’t just the money saved or the convenience – it’s the unmatched flavor and satisfaction of growing your own food from what most people throw away. That’s not just gardening; that’s kitchen magic.

Ready to transform your kitchen scraps into garden treasures? Grab that tomato and get slicing – your future self will thank you with every delicious bite!

Imagine your garden fluttering with vibrant wings while your neighbors wonder what your secret is. These aren’t just random butterflies. They’re practically your pets, returning daily to the ingenious feeders you created.

Ready to become the butterfly whisperer of your neighborhood? Let’s dive into the world of DIY butterfly feeders that will transform your outdoor space into a magical haven.

Why Your Garden NEEDS Butterfly Visitors

Butterflies aren’t just pretty faces in your garden. They’re pollination powerhouses!

Did you know a single butterfly can visit up to 100 flowers in a single day? That’s right. These delicate creatures are productivity machines in the garden.

I was shocked to discover that butterfly populations have declined by nearly 90% in some regions over the last two decades.

By creating these simple feeders, you’re not just decorating your space. You’re joining a conservation movement from your own backyard!

Grab These Simple Supplies (Most Are Already In Your Home!)

Before you unleash your inner butterfly artist, gather these basics:

• Sugar & water (butterfly nectar base)
• Sponges, cotton wicks, or cotton balls
• Containers: mason jars, bottle caps, plates, or flower pot saucers
• Decorative elements: paint, colorful string, pebbles
• Tools: scissors, glue, drill (optional)
• Overripe fruit (bananas, oranges, or apples work wonders)

The game-changer for your butterfly feeders isn’t what you think. It’s not fancy equipment, but bright colors and sweet scents that make butterflies literally unable to resist!

7 Stunning DIY Butterfly Feeders That Actually Work

1. Hanging Nectar Paradise

Like a suspended butterfly cocktail lounge, this simple feeder works miracles. Mix 1 part sugar with 4 parts water, soak a bright sponge, and place it in a small dish.

Hang it where butterflies can spot it. They have excellent color vision but surprisingly poor focus, so bright colors are key!

2. Flower Power Sponge Feeder

Cut sponges into flower shapes (because who can resist a flower, right?), soak them in sugar-water, and string them together.

Hang this colorful garland in a sunny spot and watch butterflies flock to it like teenagers to a food court.

3. Mason Jar Magic

This Pinterest-worthy feeder isn’t just pretty. It’s functional butterfly real estate! Drill a small hole in a mason jar lid, thread a cotton wick through, fill with sugar-water, and hang upside down.

The solution stays fresh longer (like a butterfly fountain drink), and the jar acts as protection from rain.

4. The Butterfly Spa Experience

Create a butterfly retreat by filling a shallow dish with smooth pebbles, then pouring sugar-water until they’re partially submerged.

The pebbles provide perfect landing pads for butterflies to perch while sipping. Think of it as a butterfly version of a luxury resort pool bar!

5. Fruit Feast Supreme

The secret most plant experts won’t tell you is that overripe fruit is butterfly catnip! Arrange slices of mushy bananas, oranges, or watermelon on a plate.

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Place in the sun where the heat releases those irresistible sweet aromas. Butterflies will discover this buffet within hours. They can smell fruit from nearly a mile away!

6. Bottle Cap Bonanza

Upcycling at its finest! Glue colorful bottle caps to a piece of wood, fill each with sugar solution, and create a butterfly bar that would make any insect influencer jealous. This eco-friendly option turns trash into a butterfly treasure trove.

7. Flower Pot Saucer Station

The difference between amateur and pro plant parents is simply knowing that a basic flower pot saucer makes an exceptional butterfly feeding station.

Paint it vibrant colors (butterflies particularly love red, purple, and yellow), fill it with nectar solution, and place it on a pedestal. The wide surface area invites multiple butterflies to feed simultaneously, like a butterfly dining hall!

Pro Tips: From Basic To Butterfly Magnet

Your butterfly feeder is ready, but will they come? Follow these game-changing strategies:

• Location, location, location: Place feeders in sunny, sheltered spots away from strong winds. Butterflies are solar-powered creatures!
• Plant butterfly magnets: Surround your feeders with milkweed, lavender, and marigolds. It’s like posting a neon “OPEN” sign for butterflies.
• Keep it clean: Refresh your sugar solution every 2-3 days to prevent mold. Dirty feeders are as unappealing to butterflies as a filthy restaurant is to us.
• Avoid pesticides: These chemicals are butterfly kryptonite, capable of killing them even in tiny amounts.
• Be patient: It might take butterflies a few days to discover your feeders. They’re like cautious diners checking out a new restaurant!

The Butterfly Effect: Why Your Tiny Feeder Makes a Huge Difference

Forget what you’ve heard about butterfly conservation being only for experts! Your simple DIY feeder creates a crucial refueling station for these pollinators.

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Butterflies are under threat from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Your backyard oasis could help local populations flourish against the odds.

Every butterfly you feed might visit thousands of flowers in its lifetime. That’s not just a pretty visitor—that’s a garden productivity powerhouse you’ve supported!

Your butterfly feeders aren’t just garden decorations; they’re a declaration that your outdoor space stands for beauty, conservation, and life. Now that’s something worth creating!

Hi GPODers!

Late summer is undeniably bitter sweet. A slowdown and cooldown is welcomed, but we must say goodbye to the vibrance and buzz of our peak summer gardens. However, the final show before fall doesn’t need to be a disappointment, and Rhonda Molin’s garden in West Grove, Pennsylvania is a prime example. Rhonda frequently shares the vibrant plants in her lush beds (Check out some of here previous submissions: Spring Blooms in Rhonda’s Garden, A Guest in Rhonda’s Garden, Fall in Rhonda’s Garden, and Rhonda’s Hellebore Roundup), and today she is showing some beautiful blooms and foliage from her late summer garden this year.

Hi! I am enclosing a few photos of what’s happening in my garden. As another poster mentioned, we are getting older so we can’t take care of so many gardens. We are tearing out all of our roses on the arbor. That area may go back to grass. Ah, the seasons of our lives!

A bloom of southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora, Zones 7–9), hopefully attracting pollinators.

My favorite plant, the hardy begonia (Begonia grandis, Zones 6–7), which my husband hates.

This photo shows the beautiful underside of the begonia.

In the front, some white very fragrant lilies with a stonecrop. I can’t remember the cultivar.

A Midnight Marvel hibiscus (Hibiscus ‘Midnight Marvel’, Zones 5–9), taken in the early evening so the blooms have started to close.

Thank you so much for this gorgeous update, Rhonda! You have such a lovely palette of plants, and it’s a delight to see your designs every time.

What’s happening in your garden? Here in Connecticut, fall is officially starting to set in and colors are shifting everywhere. Is your garden starting to show the effects of fall? Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

Do you receive the GPOD by email yet? Sign up here

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