Showing posts with label garden author. Show all posts
Showing posts with label garden author. Show all posts

Monday, June 15, 2026

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up June: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Welcome to My June Garden!
Welcome to my Long Island zone 7b garden. Located on the south shore of the island, the weather for June has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride with days ranging from the comfortable mid-70s', followed by days in the mid-upper 90's with high humidity, making time spent outside limited. The late afternoons and evenings do bring cooler temperatures, a time for me to venture out into the garden and collect my thoughts, since the garden is my happy place. 
Welcoming Committee
To begin the tour, the infamous welcoming committee is here to greet you. Today's beverage of choice is iced tea, or perhaps some lemonade, since the temperatures are a bit warm! We are going to start the tour with some views from a couple of weeks ago, because we just could not pass them up!
Rhododendron in Southern "Secret" Garden
This was the best year I have ever seen for the Rhododendron in the back secret garden. It is something I see when I wander around the back corner and caught it just in time for some photos, as it was bursting with an abundance of blooms. Since the blooms are not long-lived, I got a quick capture to share with you.
Allium 'Globemaster' Pool Perimeter
The Allium was blooming at the same time, so we had to catch them at their best as well. The blooms are now starting to fade, but they are still amazing, and the Daylilies are starting to chime in, which we will visit later.
Patio Border
It has also been an amazing year for Peony 'Bartzella'. It's blooms have been more enormous than ever! It is accompanied by Salvia 'May Night', Mugo Pine 'Slowmound', Spirea 'Candy Corn', Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple and Lamb's Ear.
Itoh Peony 'Bartzella'
Here is a single bloom up close! 'Bartzella is a hybrid cross between a shrub and tree form of Peony.
Kousa Dogwood 'Greensleeves'
Kousa Dogwood 'Greensleeves' is also abundant with greenish-white blooms this year. Juniperus 'Gold Lace' resides next to it.
Driveway Border
Following along to the driveway border and joining Weeping Norway Spruce, Spirea 'Magic Carpet' is blooming along with Salvia 'Caradonna' and Japanese Iris. The Japanese Iris are from the original Iris patch that my mom planted when I was just a child.
Front Lawn
Along the front lawn are island beds with a mixture of evergreens, flowering shrubs and perennials, including Weeping Japanese Maple, Blue Atlas Cedar, Mugo Pine, Japanese Andromeda, Anna's Magic Ball Arborvitae and Hosta.
Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz'
Back around to the patio and pool area, Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz' is blooming away...
Hen's & Chicks Succulent Grouping
and the Hen's & Chicks with Sedum 'Angelina' (Stonecrop) are doing well.
Allium 'Globemaster' and Daylily 'Stella D Oro'
It is June, so Daylily 'Stella D Oro' is now blooming at the base of Allium 'Globemaster' in the pool border. Even though the blooms of the Allium are fading a bit, I still enjoy the structure they provide throughout the entire summer.
Daylily 'Stella D Oro'
Here are the Daylily blooms up close, and also the bright deep pink blooms of Spirea 'Candy Corn'!
Spirea Blooms!
I love this newer cultivar of Spirea, as it is more compact, has wonderful foliage and blooms, and the new spring growth pushes out fiery red twisted stems.
Patio Planters
Along the patio the hydrangea in planters are getting ready to bloom, with the garden in the distance...
A Friendly Visitor!
and this little Song Sparrow visitor is not shy at all. He baths playfully in the water on the patio after I water the Hydrangeas each day.
Patio Planters
As we approach the end of the tour, here are more patio planters with a mix of evergreens, flowering shrubs and succulents, which are cold hardy enough to stay out and be enjoyed all year.
Herb/Vegetable Garden
Last, but not least is my husband's herb and vegetable garden which he uses for cooking. I taught him how to set it up and he planted it himself this year with great pride! I have made a gardener out of him after all these years!
Thanks for Visiting!
I hope you enjoyed your visit to my June garden. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and enjoy seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling Woods, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden.

Connect With Me
🌼
It's time to plan your garden! Visit my Author Page 👈to learn about and purchase my books, each one focusing on different aspects of gardening, including landscape ideas, design principles, gardening by month for all-season interest, gardening tips and maintenance, shade gardening, gardening inspiration and more. And also be sure to check out my newest publication, The Houseplant Guide, to guide you on your houseplant journey! If you have read any of my books and have found them to be useful, reviews are very much appreciated!

Also, check out my newsletter Northeastern Gardening News for monthly updates all to do with gardening! It's free to subscribe or you can pledge a donation to show support for my work, or upgrade to receive extra perks monthly right into your inbox!


Until we Meet Again...Happy Gardening!

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2026. All rights reserved. 

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up January: The Inner Beauty of Winter!

Welcome!
Happy New Year and welcome to my January zone 7b Long Island garden! After the snowiest December in years with two snowfalls, one of seven inches on the 14th, followed by another four inches a week later, the start of January came in chilly with another coating of snow earlier in the month. Now the temperatures have risen into the upper 40's, making it feel downright balmy outside, so I have been spending time in the garden, gently anticipating spring. Join me for a tour as we appreciate the inner of beauty of winter.
Garden Gal!
As we start the tour of the garden, here is the infamous "Garden Gal" statue, which I have had for as long as I can remember, as she carries her basket of dormant Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia). This hardy, creeping groundcover has been doing rather well contained in a planter, as long as the winters are not too harsh.
Nellie Steven's Holly
As we wander towards the backyard, this Nellie Steven's Holly is a regular stop on our monthly tour, but one cannot walk pass it by without admiring its bright red berries, which are prominent this time of year.
Crape Myrtle 'Sioux'
Here is the winter bark of Crape Myrtle 'Sioux'. This late summer blooming tree has an exfoliating bark in which the color is more prominent when the tree is actively growing, but it does add a nice touch to the landscape in the wintertime. The bark shows interesting patterns which can be seen while close up.
Mugo Pine
One of the many garden interests of winter that catch the eye are the seed cones of pine. Here is a close up view of Mugo Pine with its dark brown, egg-shaped clusters of seeds. Each cone is only 1.5 to 2 inches in size.
Happy Visitors!
I feed the visiting birds regularly during the cold winter months when food sources are more scarce, and they eagerly await my arrival with their daily meals. As I approach the feeder they sit in the nearby tree, and the second I replenish their food they are all over it and happy as can be. I am convinced that they are thanking me as I am greeted with an abundance of chirping!
Rhododendron Buds!
Here in the back pool surround, the buds of Rhododendron are starting to show as the tree prepares for its blooms in spring...
Weeping Norway Spruce
while Weeping Norway Spruce gracefully borders the pool patio.
Spruce Seeds Up Close
The seeds of spruce are another example of the inner beauty of winter. Here they are up close.
Evergreen Mix
Here along the northern pool border is a combination of  Leucothoe 'Axillaris', Upright 'Sky Pencil' Holly, Golden Variegated Sedge, and Dwarf Spreading Yew 'Repandens' (far right), all which are evergreen throughout the year.
Leucothoe 'Axillaris'
One thing I enjoy about broadleaved evergreens is their ability to change to an array of colors, depending on the temperatures and seasons. Here the foliage of Leucothoe 'Axillaris' turns a bronzy color in the colder temperatures of winter. As the plant slows in producing chlorophyll, it produces pigments called anthocyanins, which protect its leaves from the intense winter sun when chlorophyll is lacking, a phenomenon known as photoprotection.
Winter Interest
Here is another view of the Leucothoe with a closer look at the contrasting foliage of Dwarf Spreading Yew. One of my favorite things to do while designing is combining different textures.
Driveway Border
Along the driveway border is Weeping Norway Spruce and Dwarf Norway Spruce with Spirea alongside them in winter mode...
Driveway Border-Golden Skyland's Oriental Spruce
and Golden Skyland's Oriental Spruce as it towers towards the sky. 
Golden Skyland's Oriental Spruce Up Close!
I admire its beautiful foliage every moment of the year and even more so in wintertime. Purplish seed cones form in the upper branches in springtime, which I always look forward to.
All-Season Patio Planter
Along the gate entrance is an all-season planter consisting of Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Blue Juniper and Variegated Golden Boxwood...
A reminder of Snow
and along the front walkway is a last shimmer of snow.
Winter Blooms!-Hellebore 'Shooting Star'
As winter continues, Hellebore buds form, which will very soon open into beautiful blooms, reminding us that there can be beauty and blooms all throughout winter.
Indoor Collection
As the hours of daylight slowly increase and while awaiting the winter to pass, the indoor garden continues to thrive with colorful foliage, accompanied by the blooms of African Violet and Thanksgiving Cactus.
Indoor Collection
For a moment each morning, I just gaze out the window and dream.
Thanks for Visiting!
I hope you enjoyed your visit to my January garden. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and enjoy seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling WoodsImage-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden.

Other Places to Find Me
 ðŸŒ¼
You can visit my Author Page ðŸ‘ˆto learn about and purchase my books, each one focusing on different aspects of gardening, including landscape ideas, design principles, gardening by month for all-season interest, gardening tips and maintenance, shade gardening, gardening inspiration and more. And also be sure to check out my newest publication, The Houseplant Guide, to guide you on your houseplant journey! If you have read any of my books and have found them to be useful, reviews are very much appreciated!

Also, check out my newsletter Northeastern Gardening News for monthly updates all to do with gardening! It's free to subscribe or you can pledge a donation to show support for my work and receive monthly updates right into your inbox!


Until we Meet Again...Happy Gardening!

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2026. All rights reserved. 

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Book Launching: The Houseplant Guide: How to Easily Select & Maintain Indoor Plants

Book Launching!!! 📚

I have been a gardener since the age of five and as I grew older, the desire to be surrounded by plants has expanded from the outdoors in. As my vast collection of common and rare houseplants has grown, it has rewarded me with a sense of joy and well being, as well as bringing a touch of the indoors inside. After writing five books pertaining to outdoor design, my friends, family and colleagues wanted to know why I had not written a book about indoor gardening. I am excited to finally say that I have! 

After two years of photographing my own houseplant collection as well as visiting nurseries, talking with owners, photographing and chatting about everything green, I have composed this comprehensive reference of over 120 selections of houseplants, including care requirements, maintenance tips and other important information. I am very excited to share my own experiences and to help others achieve the indoor collection of their dreams. Whether you have a green thumb or brown, and whatever your needs, there is likely a houseplant that is right for you!

Here is a little bit about the book:

Welcome to the world of indoor gardening! The Houseplant Guide: How to Easily Select & Maintain Indoor Plants is the definitive reference for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts. With over 120 in-depth listings of popular houseplants, each entry is arranged by common name and packed with key information, including botanical names, lighting preferences, soil, moisture and humidity needs and maintenance information, as well as expert tips on optimal care.

Designed to inspire and educate, this comprehensive guide also features dedicated chapters that cater to specific interests, such as flowering plants, trailing and climbing plants, cacti, succulents and epiphytes, low-maintenance options, pet-friendly plants, and air-purifying varieties. Whether you are looking for the perfect addition to a sunlit space, a safe plant for furry friends, or a resilient choice that thrives on minimal care, this book has you covered.

For plant owners facing common challenges, the book includes a vital chapter on identifying, managing, and preventing houseplant pests and diseases. With its rich, accessible layout and clear advice, The Houseplant Guide is the essential companion for a thriving indoor garden. 

Whether you have a green thumb or brown, houseplants are a wonderful way of bringing nature into your home, while improving overall air quality and health, and they are simple to grow, providing you have the proper knowledge. Join me as we begin our houseplant journey!

Thank you for being here and I hope to help you with your houseplant journey! Join me as we grow together!

AND ANNOUNCING!!!

As Always...Happy Gardening!

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2025. All rights reserved. 

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up August: Late Summer Garden Views & News!

Welcome!
Welcome to my Long Island zone 7b late summer garden! The beginning of August brought steamy temperatures in the mid to upper 80's accompanied by lots of humidity and pop up thunderstorms, making the temperatures feel even higher. Then the passing by of Tropical Storm Debby brought 4 inches of rain within a few days to the island. After the storm, the days of mid-August bring blue skies and temperatures in the lower 80’s, evenings in the 60's and 70's, and the garden continues with its next round of blooms. Join me for a tour to see what's new! 
Let's Visit for a While!
Now, if you have been here before, the welcoming committee is back again to greet you, and if you are new here...welcome!  It is customary to join them with a hot or cold beverage of your choice and stay and visit for a while. Once you've had some time to relax, we begin the tour!
Platycodon 'Komachi' (Balloon Flower)
The first stop is at the border of the patio where Platycodon 'Komachi' Balloon Flower resides. It is the only variety that remains closed as a "balloon" and is very rare and hard to come by. I have had this one for as long as I can remember, have not seen it sold anywhere since, and am thinking of collecting and cultivating the seeds, but hear it is very difficult. If anyone has grown this cultivar from seed, I could use your advice!
Calluna 'Firefly' (Heather)
New to the garden this summer is Calluna 'Firefly'. What drew my attention to this perennial was its unusual color, and as you know, I am a huge fan of foliage! The deep mauve blooms are just an added bonus! I am looking forward to how the evergreen foliage changes throughout the seasons.
Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple
Planted last summer, the Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple is getting some new growth and is accompanied by Salvia 'Blue By You', with Knock Out Roses in the backdrop.
Back Island Bed
Along the back island bed is Heuchera (Coral Bells) 'Caramel' (left), Ajuga Burgundy Glow (right), and Sedum 'Brilliant', which will bloom a little later in the summer.
Back Island Bed
In the rear of he same bed is Dwarf Butterfly Bush 'Pugster Blue', a hybrid cultivated to be semi-sterile and non-invasive here in the northeast. It stays more compact, growing to just 2-3 feet tall by wide, yet produces a profusion of fully-sized fragrant flowers. 
Allium 'Millenium'
Here is Allium 'Millenium', a later blooming ornamental onion that brings some color and interest to the late summer garden. After seeing it growing in other's gardens, it was a must have! Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, blooms last from mid to late summer. 
Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime'
Moving along to the northwestern side of the back island bed is Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime' from Proven Winners with its amazing white blooms in late summer that take on a pink hue as the flowers mature. Variegated Weigela 'My Monet', Coral Bells 'Palace Purple' and evergreen Hinoki Cypress Compacta join in.
Viburnum 'Summer Snowflake'
Along the back garden bed, Viburnum 'Summer Snowflake' is pushing out another round of blooms for late summer...
Rudbeckia 'Little Goldstar' (Dwarf Black Eyed Susan) 
and Dwarf Black Eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' is blooming beneath Kousa Dogwood 'Greensleves' in the northern section of the property. Hosta 'Partiot' and 'Minuteman' border along the front of the bed.
Rudbeckia 'Little Goldstar' 
Here are the Dwarf Black-Eyed Susan up close. The nice thing about this plant is that is does not spread, but rather stays as a compact clump.
Pool Border
Along the pool border is a grouping of Holly 'Sky Pencil' and Heuchera 'Caramel'... 
Crape Myrtle 'Sioux'
and Crape Myrtle 'Sioux' is in bloom! Every summer I await the amazing deep pink blooms on this variety.
Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz'
The roses are dealing with the humidity this summer as best as they can. Good old reliable Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz' continues to push out blooms and never disappoints.
Groundcover Sedum Collection
Last year with the pool planting renovation, I added this collection of groundcover Sedum in a tight spot between the rock wall and the pool border. It is filling in nicely and produced yellow blooms back in July.
Front Island Bed Late Summer
Did I mention we have had some humidity and pop up thunderstorms? Well, the Hosta are loving it! They are blooming now and will be joined by the light pink blooms of Sedum 'Pure Joy' within a week or so.
Front Island Bed Late Summer
Here is another view. 
Dipladenia Planter
Last, but not least, the Dipladenia in a container on the back patio is doing beautifully! I get to enjoy it everyday as I sit under the overhang with a cup of tea! 

IN OTHER NEWS: Did you know that I post a monthly Substack newsletter called Northeastern Gardening News? Subscribe here for free to receive monthly updates all to do with gardening! Also, our gardens made it to the Garden Photo of the Day here at Fine Gardening Magazine. Lastly, I was invited to Season 8, Episode 21 of The Gardening with Joey & Holly radio show, as we spoke about gardening in shade! It has certainly been a fun and exciting month in the horticultural world!
Thank you for Visiting!
I hope you enjoyed your visit to my August garden and got to check out my newsletter. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and enjoy seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling WoodsImage-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden. See you next month and do check out my books in the meantime! They make great gifts too! As always...Happy Gardening!

My Author Page
Sharing a Lifetime of Gardening with My Books!  (Garden Design, Planning, Maintenance Tips and more!)


Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved.