October brings both celebration and reflection—from the playful colors of Halloween to the meaningful reminders of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This week, we’re highlighting seasonal plants, a healing garden that grew from one woman’s journey, and 10 pruning tips to keep your garden healthy as you pause to appreciate your own garden spaces.
Add a touch of Halloween magic to your garden! Pair fiery orange blooms with near-black foliage for bold contrast, or mix in softer apricot and cream tones for a warm autumn glow. Get inspired for a garden that captures the spirit of the season.
Marigolds and ‘Dark Opal’ basil make a perfect pairing, thriving in the same sunny conditions while the marigolds help repel pests and the basil adds fragrance and texture to the garden. Tip: Put both in a container for instant fall décor!
After a breast cancer diagnosis, Christina of Gig Harbor, WA (Zone 8b) transformed her yard into a toxin-free haven anchored by a stunning Japanese maple. She replaced her lawn with creeping thyme, perennials, and veggies—creating a peaceful space filled with life and healing energy.
Bring West London Charm to Your Home with the
Chelsea Gardener Collection
Inspired by the gardening enthusiasts of West London, the Chelsea Gardener Collection from Plantatorem offers a stunning selection of planters in a variety of vibrant colors and finishes, both glossy and matte. Designed to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, these planters are perfect for any space—from patios and sunrooms to living rooms. Whether you're decorating your garden or adding a touch of greenery to your home, the Chelsea Gardener Collection combines beauty and versatility for any environment.
Pruning keeps your plants healthy and beautiful, but even small mistakes can have dire consequences. Maybe you’ve snipped too much or pruned at the wrong time. It happens! We’re here to make pruning easier so you can keep your shrubs happy, healthy, and looking their best.
At the end of each month, I like to spend a few quiet moments flipping through David Culp’s A Year at Brandywine Cottage for inspiration on what to focus on in the garden next.
For October, a stunning photo of a Japanese maple dressed in seasonal décor caught my eye—so of course, I had to recreate it for our entry taboret!
Here’s to inspired spaces,
Jim Peterson
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In Case You Missed It:
19 Small Trees for Your Landscape
Transforming a Blank Canvas
Shrubs 101
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Fall Garden Cleanup
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