15 “cool” plants you can grow in Louisiana Story and Photography by Richelle Stafne I love visiting other people’s gardens to see what they are growing. It’s especially fun when I find new and interesting plants, or plants that I had forgotten. Even in my own garden it brings joy to hear someone say, “Ooh, …
Nature lifts the spirit and feeds the soul Story and Photography by Yvonne Lelong Bordelon If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power to move you, if the simple things in nature have a message you understand, rejoice, for your …
Converting lawn into usable garden space By J.D. Willoughby Lawns are integral to suburban homescapes, but their origins actually go back to wealthy British or French landowners, depending on which references are used. Lawns provide uniformity, a sense of security, and a well-manicured facade, but there are many other creative ways to landscape. The wealthy …
Planning garden beds for maximum impact and minimum maintenance Story and Photography by Susan Jasan A little planning ahead can maximize your enjoyment and minimize headaches when dealing with your landscape – the maintenance in particular. A simple concept, yes; but most often overlooked. This particularly applies to the layout and design of your planting …
The importance of mineral content and soil fertility in food nutrition Story and Photography by Yvonne Lelong Bordelon “The nation that destroys its soil destroys itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1937 The old adage, “You are what you eat” is certainly true for humans, as well as plants. Recent research has shown that fruits and …
How about a new perspective? Story and Photography by Cindy Shapton Do you ever look at weeds and wonder why this or that plant is considered a weed while other plants, such as bermudagrass, are not? It’s all in the angle I suppose, “One man’s treasure is another man’s junk,” and all that. Perhaps, before …
Add drama to your landscape with these perfectly pendulous trees Story and Photography by Richelle Stafne Looking for ways to make your landscape smile? Consider adding some sad trees. Well, not sad per se, but weeping. Weeping branches, that is! Weeping trees and shrubs add interest and architectural drama. They can be at home in …
There are many reasons to grow succulents around your home Story and Photography by Brittany May Succulents are a great way to begin gardening, teaching children to garden, or building the confidence of a person who doesn’t exactly have a “green thumb.” Succulents seem to thrive when you ignore them. They require very little care …
How to use neem oil Story and Photography by Brittany May Neem oil is created by pressing the seeds and fruits of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is native to South Asia and India. Pure neem oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is also a major ingredient in many …
Story and Photography by Yvonne Lelong Bordelon Old-fashioned nasturtiums are perfect for Louisiana’s cool seasons. In North Louisiana, the attractive edible beauties can be enjoyed from early spring through summer. In South Louisiana, this flowering cook’s delight can be grown from fall through spring during mild winters. Vining varieties are happy on fences, trellises, or …
