By making small, thoughtful changes in our gardens, we can create thriving habitats for northern New Jersey’s native bees. Whether by planting native flowers, providing nesting sites, or reducing chemical use, every effort contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Plus, a garden buzzing with bees is a garden teeming with life, beauty, and productivity!

Butterflies bring beauty and movement to the garden, but their presence isn’t just about aesthetics—they are vital pollinators and an integral part of the ecosystem. If you want to attract butterflies, it’s essential to provide for their entire lifecycle, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult butterfly. This means including host plants for their larvae, nectar-rich flowers for adults, and sheltering plants for pupation.

If you want to turn your garden into a sanctuary for birds, the best way to do it is by planting native species that provide food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. Native plants have evolved alongside local bird species, making them the most beneficial choices for supporting our feathered friends.

Perennial planters are a fantastic way to bring long-lasting beauty to decks, patios, and small garden spaces in New Jersey. Unlike annual-filled containers that require seasonal replanting, perennial-based planters offer year-round interest, greater sustainability, and vital habitat for pollinators. To maximize success, it's essential to select the right plants, to choose durable containers, and to maintain them properly.

In North Jersey, gardeners are no strangers to unpredictable weather. Between summer droughts, temporary water restrictions, and fluctuating temperatures, maintaining a thriving landscape can be a challenge. The key to a resilient garden lies in selecting plants that can handle these extremes without excessive watering or intervention.

Designing a garden can be an exciting yet overwhelming process, especially with the multitude of styles to choose from. Each garden style has unique characteristics, benefits, and challenges. For residents in North Jersey, it’s crucial to consider the local climate, soil, and native plants when planning a garden. Here, we’ll explore several popular garden styles, their pros and cons, and suggest native plants that thrive in our region.

Pruning is a fundamental gardening practice that ensures the health, beauty, and productivity of your plants. Whether you're shaping a hedge, encouraging more blooms, or removing deadwood, proper pruning techniques are essential for success. In this guide, we’ll explore the when, what, how, and why of pruning, along with tips for choosing tools and finding visual inspiration.

If you’ve spent time nurturing your New Jersey garden, only to find your efforts thwarted by mischievous squirrels, you’re not alone. These agile rodents can wreak havoc, digging up bulbs, raiding bird feeders, and chewing on fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to deter squirrels without harming them.

As a professional garden designer based in North Jersey, having the right tools is non-negotiable. Tools are an extension of your hands, and their quality can make or break your gardening experience. Here are some of my favorite tools and maintenance tips to keep them in top shape. For a more extensive list of recommended tools, visit my Amazon wishlist on my learning page.

If you’re looking for an efficient way to start NJ native seeds indoors, consider using an AeroGarden. It’s a great tool for kickstarting your gardening journey, even for seeds that require special preparation like cold stratification. Learn how you can get started, with tips for transplanting and growing your plants outdoors.

If you’re looking to enhance your garden with a plant that’s as functional as it is beautiful, Panicum virgatum, commonly known as switchgrass, deserves a spot on your list. This versatile native grass thrives in Denville and throughout Morris County, making it a perfect addition to New Jersey landscapes focused on sustainability and ecological impact.

Creating a haven for native birds and owls on your property isn’t just a rewarding experience for nature lovers—it’s an ecological investment. Birds, including owls, play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, from pest control to seed dispersal. If you live in New Jersey, you’re in the perfect spot to attract fascinating avian species like screech owls, chickadees, bluebirds, and woodpeckers. Building and installing birdhouses tailored to their needs can help support these native species while adding life and sound to your outdoor spaces.

As the chill of winter settles in across North Jersey, the landscape transforms into a picturesque scene of snow-laden trees and frosty mornings. While we cozy up indoors, birds face challenges finding unfrozen water for drinking and bathing. One way we can help is by providing a heated bird bath in our yards. Here’s why winter bird baths are essential and how to maintain them.

When it comes to sustainable landscaping in North Jersey, few plants offer as much beauty, versatility, and ecological value as Cornus sericea, commonly known as red twig dogwood. This stunning native shrub is a must-have for gardeners in Denville, Morris County, and throughout New Jersey who want to enhance their landscapes while supporting the local ecosystem.

Permaculture is a system of agricultural and social design that mimics the patterns and relationships found in natural ecosystems. Rather than imposing rigid control over the land, permaculture encourages collaboration with natural processes to create sustainable and resilient landscapes. Read on to learn how to utilize permaculture techniques in your own landscape.

This guide will walk you through winter sowing: timing, container prep, seed sowing, and ongoing care, so you’re ready to grow strong seedlings for spring.

When it comes to native plants with year-round beauty and ecological benefits, Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry holly, deserves a top spot in North Jersey gardens. This deciduous holly offers striking red berries that brighten winter landscapes, provide food for wildlife, and support sustainable landscaping practices. Whether you're in Denville, elsewhere in Morris County, or beyond, incorporating this New Jersey native into your garden can make a positive environmental impact while elevating your outdoor space.

Winter snow and ice can turn driveways, walkways, and steps into hazardous zones, but managing snow safely doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice the environment. There are eco-friendly snow management options, like Kind Melt and other green ice-melting products, that allow us to clear surfaces while still being kind to our planet. Read to learn more about how to manage snow sustainably.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the gifts our gardens provide. From fresh herbs and vegetables to the beauty of fall blooms, our gardens offer plenty to be thankful for year-round.

As winter approaches here in northern New Jersey, it’s the perfect time to get your garden ready for the cold months ahead. Many of us love the look of a neat, well-organized garden, but it’s possible to keep things tidy while also supporting local wildlife. A few simple adjustments can help your garden stay beautiful while providing much-needed shelter for beneficial insects and other creatures.