
Desiging a garden part 4: Planting the Big Stuff First (And Why It Matters)
Start your garden the right way by planting trees and shrubs first. Learn how anchor plants shape your space and make everything else easier.

Grow confidently in the Pacific Northwest.
Practical, seasonal guidance for real PNW gardens — cool springs, damp winters, dry summers, and imperfect soil included. Beginners welcome.
Updated regularly with seasonal advice, planting notes, and Pacific Northwest garden inspiration.
Seasonal guidance, practical how-tos, plant spotlights, and thoughtful experiments for Pacific Northwest gardens

Start your garden the right way by planting trees and shrubs first. Learn how anchor plants shape your space and make everything else easier.

A beautiful garden doesn’t start with plants—it starts with structure. Discover how to shape your space first so everything else falls into place.

Struggling to plan your garden? Learn how to sketch a simple, imperfect layout that helps you finally get started—no design skills needed.

Feeling stuck with an empty yard? Learn how to start your garden the right way with two simple steps—no overwhelm, no plant lists, just a clear place to begin.

Horsetail is one of the toughest weeds in Pacific Northwest gardens. Learn how to identify it, why it thrives, and the best ways to control it naturally.

New to gardening in Washington? Here are the biggest mistakes I made my first year—and what I wish I knew before I started.

Not sure what to plant in April in Washington? Here’s a simple guide to vegetables, flowers, and seeds to start now in the Pacific Northwest.

Struggling plants? It might be the light. Learn how to understand full sun, part shade, and shade in your garden—especially in the Pacific Northwest.

Tiny green invaders on your roses? Learn how to control aphids naturally using water, beneficial insects, and simple home methods—no harsh chemicals needed.