Discover the story of Steve Marple’s garden in Sammamish—a thriving space of sustainability, community sharing, and passion for native plants. Learn how his “Give & Take” stand fosters connection and generosity among local gardeners.
Category Archives: General PNW
How to Forage Native Plants Legally and Sustainably in Washington State
Foraging sustainably isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way to connect with nature while honoring its limits. Recently, Nas and I took a family outing (dogs included) to gather native plants with free permits from Washington’s forests. Small harvests of ferns, willow branches, moss, and fungi inspired both our garden designs and our hearts. Every permit comes with clear limits—5 ferns, 5 lbs of willow—ensuring we take only what we need and leave the rest to thrive.
The Garden’s Secret Heroes: How Nematodes Can Protect Your Yard From Nighttime Raiders Without Harsh Chemicals!
Your yard doesn’t have to be a battleground for moles, raccoons, and grubs. The secret to restoring peace lies with one of nature’s smallest heroes: nematodes. These microscopic worms quietly work underground, seeking out and eliminating pests like grubs that attract larger animals. Unlike chemical pesticides, beneficial nematodes are safe, eco-friendly, and highly effective – protecting your lawn while leaving plants, pets, and helpful insects unharmed. Learn how these unsung heroes can naturally keep your garden thriving and pest-free.
The Art of Pruning: Tree, Shrub, and Rose Management in Winter
The Art of Pruning: Tree, Shrub, and Rose Management in Winter
Winter is the perfect time to prune your trees, shrubs, and roses to keep them healthy, beautiful, and manageable. Learn how to properly shape Japanese maples, maintain flowering shrubs like rhododendrons, and care for roses to prevent overgrowth and prepare for vibrant spring blooms. With these expert tips, your Pacific Northwest garden will thrive year-round!
Hidden Gems of the Eastside: Landscaping Inspiration from Soaring Eagle Regional Park
Hidden Gems of the Eastside: Landscaping Inspiration from Soaring Eagle Regional Park
Soaring Eagle Regional Park is not just a natural retreat but a treasure trove of inspiration for Pacific Northwest gardening. From layered forest canopies to vibrant winter berries and moss-lined trails, the park showcases the effortless beauty of nature that you can incorporate into your own garden. Whether you’re looking to create depth, add pops of color, or support local wildlife, this post is full of practical tips inspired by this Sammamish gem. Take a walk with me through the park, and let’s explore how to bring its magic into your outdoor space!
Creative Uses for Fallen Trees and Logs After a Storm
Repurposing Storm Debris: Creative Uses for Fallen Trees and Logs
After a major windstorm swept through cities like Sammamish and Redmond, many residents are left with fallen trees and branches. Instead of discarding the debris, these materials can be transformed into functional and decorative outdoor features. From sturdy steps to wildlife habitats, this guide explores how storm aftermath can enhance your yard while supporting sustainability and local wildlife.
Transforming a Dry, South-Facing Slope into a Naturistic Garden Inspired by “Planting: A New Perspective
Inspired by the principles of naturalistic planting from Piet Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury’s Planting: A New Perspective, I transformed a dry, south-facing slope into a vibrant and layered garden. Using a matrix of grasses like Panicum ‘Niagara Falls’ and Pennisetum ‘Little Bunny’ as the foundation, I integrated flowering accents such as Kniphofia ‘Rocket Jr.’ and Dierama for seasonal drama. Existing features, including a stone staircase, juniper, broadleaf thyme, and lilac, were thoughtfully incorporated, creating harmony between the new design and the established landscape. This project showcases how even a single space can be revitalized to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, offering year-round texture, movement, and color. Sammamish, Wa
Book Spotlight: Planting: A New Perspective by Noel Kingsbury and Piet Oudolf
Naturalistic planting, as described in Planting: A New Perspective by Piet Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury, prioritizes biodiversity, resilience, and year-round beauty. By layering grasses, perennials, and native plants, gardeners create dynamic spaces that support local wildlife while reducing maintenance needs. Whether it’s a small meadow patch or a feature-rich garden bed, this approach offers a sustainable alternative to traditional landscaping.
Top 10 Native Plants for Pacific Northwest Gardens
Top 10 Native Plants for Pacific Northwest Gardens
Discover the top 10 native plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest, perfect for gardens in Sammamish, Redmond, Woodinville and beyond. From the vibrant Vine Maple to the hardy Sword Fern, these plants require minimal maintenance, conserve water, and support local wildlife. Learn how to incorporate stunning choices like Red Flowering Currant, Oregon Grape, and Western Red Cedar into your landscape for a sustainable and beautiful outdoor space. These native plants are a must-have for any eco-friendly garden in the PNW!
Fun Plants for a Low-Maintenance Yet Exciting Winter Garden (Zone 8)
Fun Plants for a Low-Maintenance Yet Exciting Winter Garden (Zone 8)
Create a vibrant and low-maintenance winter garden in Zone 8 with these exciting plants! From the fragrant blooms of Winter Daphne to the fiery stems of Red Twig Dogwood, discover colorful, textural, and unique options that thrive in colder months. Perfect for Pacific Northwest gardeners, these plants bring year-round interest and require minimal care. Transform your winter garden into a stunning outdoor space!