Botanical Inspiration: Mulching And Helping Hands
I suppose I inherited a love of yard work from my Dad. In the beginning, it was clearly a chore, i.e. raking, weeding, mulching, etc. However, it didn't take long for me to see it in a different light. I began seeking out things to do in our garden, following my dad behind the mower raking grass clippings or selecting and planting flowers in our many beds. That's why I'm delighted when I see our children are enjoying getting their hands in the soil, choosing plants in garden centers and, of course, watering. Recently Zoe helped me mulch the tiered section of our entry steps. In the original 1953 landscape plans a waterfall feature was intended for this space. We chose to plant Mondo Grass, Dwarf Red Pine, Manzanita and Jasmine instead. The mulch around the plantings not only enhances the foliage color, but also keeps the soil moist and the weeds at bay.
As time passes, I look forward to seeing the tiers fill in and our children's interest in gardening grow.
I'm so grateful for my childhood experiences in the garden. Thank you, Dad!
Have a great weekend!
Botanical Inspiration: The Flora Around Us
Whether it's embodied in dangerous spikes, brilliant colors, smooth surfaces or delicate petals, the flora around us never ceases to inspire me. Here are a few favorite specimens, as of late. Some I shot at a wholesale nursery, others while hiking, one in our very own yard and a few in a friend's wild and crazy garden. Enjoy their beauty.
To see more botanical inspirations on a [somewhat] daily basis follow me on Instagram.
Images are: Barrel Cactus, PincushionProtea, a feral cactus, New Zealand Flax, Echium, and Garden Rose.
Planting With A Purpose
Last week, I had the pleasure of hosting members of the CAPC (Child Abuse Prevention Council) for a demonstration on how to create and care for a succulent planter. The lesson yielded 22 planters that will serve as center pieces for the organization's upcoming fundraising event. Using textured metallic vessels and three distinct types of succulents, the group dug in and carefully arranged and planted them to create stunning additions to their luncheon's table settings. Take a look:
To learn more about CAPC's mission to promote children safety and to prevent child abuse/neglect in Contra Costa county click here.
Many thanks to its members for including Cocoon Home Design in this week's event. I'm honored to be part of this great cause.
Botanical Inspiration: Old Stomping Grounds
Last week, I felt the urge to visit San Francisco's Strybing Arboretum, where I used to volunteer. Years ago, I worked in its greenhouses, repotting, propagating and pruning its diverse plant collection. Due to the many micro climates this arboretum is able to host, it is a virtual wonderland showcasing plants from all over the world. My favorite ones originate from New Zealand and/or are native to California. Returning to the arboretum reminded me of a very special time in my life and validated my continued passion for plants, which I hope to apply to our garden in the years to come.
