On July 21st, we saw a colorful garden in the Pacific Northwest from frequent contributor Marianne Berger in Mukilteo, Washington: A Colorful Pacific Northwest Garden.
The blue pot really pops against the vibrant colors of Marianne’s garden. The mix of flowers and foliage creates a lively and cheerful atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the beauty of nature.
Finally, on August 12th we saw some beautiful containers from another frequent contributor, Karen Bussolini in Easton, Connecticut: Karen’s Beautiful Containers.
Karen’s use of purple in this container is striking and sophisticated. The coleus adds a burst of color, while the other plants complement it beautifully, creating a harmonious and visually appealing arrangement.
As summer turned to fall, we continued to see a variety of beautiful gardens from our talented contributors, each one unique and inspiring in its own way. The diversity of styles, plants, and design elements showcased in the GPOD blog is a testament to the creativity and passion of gardeners around the world.
So, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and express our gratitude for all the beauty and inspiration shared on GPOD, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the joy and connection that gardens bring to our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey, there’s always something new to discover and enjoy in the world of gardening. Thank you to all our readers and contributors for being part of this wonderful community, and may your gardens continue to flourish and bring you happiness for years to come.
Happy Thanksgiving!
The plant on the right is dwarf Alberta spruce (Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’, Zones 2–6). This compact and slow-growing conifer is a popular choice for small gardens, rock gardens, and containers. Its dense, pyramid shape and bright green foliage make it a versatile and attractive addition to any landscape.
Dwarf Alberta spruce is a hardy evergreen that thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It requires little maintenance once established and is relatively pest and disease resistant. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces or as a focal point in a mixed border. It can also be pruned to maintain its shape and size, making it a great choice for formal gardens or topiary.
In the garden of Anna Tsai in Bayside, Wisconsin, we saw peak summer with fabulous flowers like the bright yellow Eremurus stenophyllus, which added a striking focal point to the landscape. These spires of color stood out against the green backdrop of the garden, creating a visually stunning display.
In Nicki Snoblin’s garden in Lake Bluff, Illinois, a front yard pollinator garden was updated with a variety of flowers and plants, including the Tiny Tuff Stuff™ hydrangea (Hydrangea serrata ‘MAKD’, Zones 5–9). This garden was designed to attract pollinators and provide a beautiful and sustainable habitat for wildlife.
Lizzi’s garden in Walla Walla, Washington, showcased a beautiful bed with a funky garden sculpture and lavender ‘Martha Roderick’ (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Martha Roderick’, Zones 5–10). The combination of flowers and plants created a harmonious and colorful display that added interest and texture to the garden.
Lila Johnson’s colorful containers in Mill Creek, Washington, featured cohesive groupings of annuals and ornamental branches that added height and interest to the displays. These containers brought a pop of color to the shade and showcased the creative use of plant materials in summer arrangements.
Kielian DeWitt’s rural garden on a Montana ranch was a highlight of the Bitterroot Secret Garden Tour™, featuring a brick path cutting through a summer garden filled with pink roses, snow-in-summer ground cover, astilbe, and a late-blooming peony. This garden was a testament to the beauty and diversity of Montana’s landscapes.
Suzannah Pugh’s Missouri garden underwent several transformations and additions over the years, including the planting of new trees, the installation of swing structures and arbors, and the creation of a pollinator garden with echinacea, weigela, Chinese snowball viburnum, and more. This garden evolved into a vibrant and colorful space that attracted pollinators and provided beauty and interest year-round.
Catherine Dickerson’s flower-filled garden in San Diego, California, featured fuchsia hanging baskets next to a white pergola. Her husband, known as “the fuchsia man,” cultivated a stunning display of these colorful flowers that added a touch of elegance to the garden.
In conclusion, the dwarf Alberta spruce is a versatile and attractive plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. From formal gardens to pollinator-friendly landscapes, this compact conifer adds year-round interest and beauty to any outdoor space. As showcased in the gardens of Anna Tsai, Nicki Snoblin, Lizzi, Lila Johnson, Kielian DeWitt, Suzannah Pugh, and Catherine Dickerson, the dwarf Alberta spruce is a valuable addition to any garden design. He has 30 hanging baskets, more in pots and the ground, that he tends daily, repotting the hanging baskets every November. This dedication to his garden is evident in the lush and vibrant blooms that fill his outdoor space. As the seasons change, he carefully selects new plants to refresh his hanging baskets and pots, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display of color and texture.
Each morning, he starts his day by watering his plants, ensuring they have enough moisture to thrive in the summer heat. He carefully inspects each plant for signs of pests or disease, taking proactive measures to protect his garden from harm. With a keen eye for detail, he prunes and deadheads his plants regularly, promoting healthy growth and encouraging new blooms to emerge.
In addition to his hanging baskets, he also tends to a variety of plants in pots and in the ground. His garden is a mix of annuals, perennials, and shrubs, creating a diverse and visually appealing landscape. He takes pride in the combination of colors and textures that he has curated, creating a harmonious and balanced garden that delights the senses.
One of his favorite tasks is repotting his hanging baskets every November. This annual ritual allows him to refresh the soil, prune the roots, and introduce new plants for the upcoming season. He carefully selects plants that will thrive in the cooler months, ensuring that his garden remains vibrant and colorful throughout the year.
As he works in his garden, he is filled with a sense of peace and contentment. The act of tending to his plants brings him joy and satisfaction, allowing him to connect with nature and find solace in the beauty of his surroundings. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, his garden is a sanctuary, a place of refuge and renewal.
Throughout the year, he documents the evolution of his garden through photographs. He captures the changing seasons, the blooming flowers, and the lush foliage that fills his outdoor space. These photos serve as a visual diary of his garden, allowing him to reflect on the progress he has made and the beauty he has created.
He is grateful for the opportunity to cultivate his garden, to nurture and care for the plants that bring him so much joy. His garden is not just a collection of plants, but a living, breathing entity that fills his life with purpose and meaning. As he tends to his hanging baskets, pots, and the ground, he is reminded of the beauty and resilience of nature, and the importance of nurturing and protecting the world around us.
As the year comes to a close, he looks back on all that he has accomplished in his garden. He celebrates the growth and beauty that he has cultivated, the lessons he has learned, and the connections he has forged with the natural world. He is grateful for the opportunity to tend to his garden, to witness the magic of growth and transformation, and to find peace and solace in the beauty of nature.
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, his garden remains a constant source of joy and inspiration. It is a place of beauty and tranquility, a sanctuary where he can escape the stresses of daily life and connect with the natural world. As he tends to his hanging baskets, pots, and the ground, he is reminded of the power of nature to heal, to rejuvenate, and to bring peace to the soul.
As he looks forward to the new year, he is filled with hope and optimism for the future. He is excited to see what new blooms will emerge, what new growth will unfold, and what new beauty will grace his garden. With each passing day, he tends to his plants with love and care, knowing that he is creating something truly special, something that will continue to bring him joy and inspiration for years to come. the importance of mental health awareness and advocacy in today’s society.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and recognition of the importance of mental health in our society. Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide, yet there is still a stigma surrounding these issues that prevents many individuals from seeking help and support. As a result, it is crucial that we continue to advocate for mental health awareness and work towards creating a more supportive and understanding society for those struggling with mental health issues.
One of the main reasons why mental health awareness is so important is because mental health issues are incredibly common. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. This means that it is highly likely that either you or someone you know will be affected by a mental health issue at some point. By raising awareness about mental health and encouraging open conversations about these issues, we can help to reduce the stigma and shame that often surrounds mental health problems.
In addition to the high prevalence of mental health issues, it is also important to recognize that mental health can have a significant impact on a person’s overall well-being and quality of life. Mental health issues can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including their relationships, work, and physical health. Without proper support and treatment, mental health issues can lead to severe consequences, such as substance abuse, self-harm, and even suicide. By raising awareness about mental health and advocating for better access to mental health services, we can help to prevent these negative outcomes and ensure that those struggling with mental health issues receive the support and care they need.
Another reason why mental health awareness is so important is because it helps to challenge the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround mental health issues. Many people still believe that mental health problems are a sign of weakness or that individuals with mental health issues are dangerous or unpredictable. These myths can prevent people from seeking help and support, as they fear being judged or stigmatized. By raising awareness about mental health and sharing accurate information about these issues, we can help to combat these harmful stereotypes and create a more compassionate and understanding society.
Furthermore, mental health awareness is crucial for advocating for better access to mental health services and resources. In many countries around the world, mental health services are underfunded and understaffed, making it difficult for individuals to access the care and support they need. By raising awareness about the importance of mental health and advocating for better mental health services, we can help to ensure that everyone has access to the support and treatment they need to manage their mental health issues effectively.
In recent years, there have been significant strides made in the field of mental health awareness and advocacy. More and more people are speaking out about their own experiences with mental health issues, challenging the stigma and shame that often surround these issues. Organizations and initiatives dedicated to mental health advocacy are also gaining traction, working to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for better mental health services.
However, there is still much work to be done. Despite the progress that has been made, mental health awareness and advocacy are still not given the attention and resources they deserve. Many individuals continue to suffer in silence, afraid to speak out about their mental health issues or seek help. Stigma and discrimination against those with mental health issues are still prevalent in many communities, making it difficult for people to access the support and care they need.
As a society, we must continue to prioritize mental health awareness and advocacy. We must work to challenge the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions that surround mental health issues, and create a more supportive and understanding environment for those struggling with mental health problems. We must also advocate for better access to mental health services and resources, so that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care and support they need to manage their mental health effectively.
In conclusion, mental health awareness and advocacy are crucial for creating a society that is supportive and understanding of those struggling with mental health issues. By raising awareness about mental health, challenging harmful stereotypes, and advocating for better access to mental health services, we can help to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. It is time for us to prioritize mental health and work towards creating a more compassionate and inclusive society for all. the benefits of outdoor activities for physical and mental health.
Spending time outdoors has been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, many people spend the majority of their time indoors, whether at work, school, or at home. However, making an effort to get outside and engage in outdoor activities can have a significant impact on overall well-being.
One of the most obvious benefits of outdoor activities is the physical health benefits they provide. Many outdoor activities involve some form of physical exercise, whether it’s hiking, biking, swimming, or playing sports. Regular physical activity has been shown to have a host of benefits, including weight management, improved cardiovascular health, and increased muscle strength and flexibility. Engaging in outdoor activities can help people maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and improve overall physical fitness.
In addition to the physical health benefits, outdoor activities also have numerous mental health benefits. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors can have a calming effect on the mind and can help people feel more relaxed and at ease. In fact, studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve mood.
Outdoor activities also provide an opportunity for social interaction, which is important for mental health. Whether it’s going for a hike with friends, playing a game of soccer with teammates, or simply taking a walk in the park with a loved one, outdoor activities can help people connect with others and build relationships. Social support has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, and engaging in outdoor activities with others can help people feel more connected and supported.
Another benefit of outdoor activities is the opportunity for personal growth and development. Engaging in new and challenging activities outdoors can help people build confidence, develop new skills, and push themselves outside of their comfort zones. Whether it’s learning how to rock climb, mastering a new yoga pose, or completing a challenging hike, outdoor activities provide opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement.
One of the key benefits of outdoor activities is the opportunity to disconnect from technology and the stresses of daily life. In today’s digital age, many people are constantly connected to their phones, computers, and other devices. This constant connectivity can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. Engaging in outdoor activities provides a much-needed break from technology and allows people to disconnect and unwind. Whether it’s going for a walk in the woods, sitting by a lake, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, spending time outdoors can help people relax and recharge.
In addition to the physical and mental health benefits, outdoor activities also provide opportunities for learning and education. Whether it’s learning about local flora and fauna, geology, or history, engaging in outdoor activities can help people connect with the natural world and develop a greater appreciation for the environment. Many outdoor activities also provide opportunities for environmental stewardship, such as participating in beach cleanups, trail maintenance, or wildlife conservation efforts.
Overall, the benefits of outdoor activities for physical and mental health are numerous. From improved physical fitness and reduced stress to opportunities for social interaction and personal growth, spending time outdoors can have a significant impact on overall well-being. Whether it’s going for a hike, playing a game of soccer, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, taking time to engage in outdoor activities can help people lead happier, healthier lives. So next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider stepping outside and enjoying the many benefits that nature has to offer.
