Ideas for creating hardscape using thrift store and estate sale finds Story and Photos by Leslie Derrenbacker Hardscape (by a much watered down definition) is something added to your garden that is not a plant. Hardscape is a very important element when planning any garden space. It provides four seasons of interest, requires little to …
Creating cozy outdoor rooms in your landscape Story and Photos by Richelle Stafne Ideas and materials for pulling off a cozy outdoor room on a budget can be found in many places. The basics include a comfortable room away from the house with seating, an area to prepare food, and seclusion or privacy. A simple …
To thine own self be true Story and Photos by Dwain Hebda Carol Mendel of Little Rock didn’t grow up a gardening enthusiast, but when she and her husband Allan moved into a sprawling home with a stunning view of the Arkansas River, she thought the grounds needed some help to keep up with the …
Utilizing footbridges and creeks in the garden Story and Photos by A.J. Heinsz-Bailey Generally speaking, water has never been a problem for Louisiana gardeners. Sometimes, however, what to do with all the water can be a challenge for us. In northern parts of the state, we have hills, and down south, we have lowlands. Working …
An old construction technique that’s perfect for the modern garden Story and Photos by Cynthia Wood If you’ve visited historical gardens, you’ve probably noticed fences that resemble wooden croquet wickets. These are variations of wattle, an ancient craft that’s been practiced in England and Europe since the Bronze Age. Although wattle was traditionally made with …
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 …
Using permeable surfaces in the garden By Helen Newling Lawson As gardeners, we know how precious water is. So when we get a good downpour, the last thing we want is to see it go down the drains. And all that runoff hitting our streams, rivers, and wetlands isn’t good for the environment either. It …
The Three Little Pigs got it right! Story and Photography by Susan Jasan We enjoy what we see in our home and garden, but what you don’t see is critical to the long-term enjoyment of your landscape and your gardens. Just as the classic children’s tale The Three Little Pigs teaches us, it’s important to …
From plants to pathways … easy ways to handle a tough site Story and Photos by Helen Newling Lawson Many landscapes have at least some degree of slope. In certain situations, a slope can be a design asset, allowing you to create interesting features or place certain garden elements at eye level. But steep slopes …
Garden thresholds can multiply your green spaces Story and Photography by Helen Yoest Whether it’s to a garden or life, thresholds symbolize new beginnings. For brides, being carried across the threshold of a new home marks the start of a new phase of life. For my own wedding in 1988, my husband and I were …
