There are so many ways to shape how a garden feels, from the design elements that guide the whole space to the colors that bring it to life. This week, we’re looking at thoughtful garden design, the power of pink, a colorful webinar with Jan Johnsen, and a little inspiration for getting out into a beautiful garden this Mother’s Day weekend.
Incredible gardens don’t happen by accident. Color, texture, line, and form all shape how a space feels, while design principles help bring those pieces together with purpose.
Pictured: This multi-purpose garden is a beautiful example, with space for lounging, cutting flowers, vegetables, and a soothing fountain all working together in one thoughtful design. Photo by Rebecca Sweet.
Webinar next week!
Designing with Color:
How to Shape Mood, Energy, and Harmony in the Garden
with Jan Johnsen
Thursday, May 14th at 6 PM Eastern*
Color can shift the whole feeling of a garden, from peaceful and soothing to bold, lively, and full of energy. When used with intention, it becomes one of the most powerful tools for shaping mood, creating flow, and bringing a design together.
Join Jan Johnsen for an inspiring live webinar on using color with more confidence in your garden. You’ll come away with practical ideas, thoughtful design guidance, and a fresh way to look at the colors already growing around you.
Want a preview? Watch Jan’s quick video about what she’ll cover here. We hope to "see" you there! *Can't join us live? All registrants will receive notes to follow along plus the recording will be sent out the Monday after the webinar to watch or rewatch if you can't join us live.
$20 USD
Pink is one of the most versatile colors in the garden, from soft blush tones to bold magenta blooms. This article highlights 30 pink-flowering plants, including annuals, perennials, bulbs, shrubs, and vines, along with tips for using pink in fresh, beautiful ways. Pictured here, a zinnia shows just how cheerful and eye-catching pink can be.
Bonus: If you love pink flowers, Jan will be discussing why pink is such a useful bridge color in her webinar next week!
Visit some of the best gardens across the country and world with our carefully crafted day trips, where a local friend shares their insights, photos, tips, and more for a beautiful day of exploring. PS - I've heard moms like to stroll gardens if you need an idea for this weekend!
Pictured: The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, CA (part of the Los Angeles Day Trip). Photo by Karen Chapman.
Talking to strangers isn’t trivial—it’s transformative
The author Sandstrom shows that small, everyday interactions can boost happiness, confidence, and connection while reducing anxiety and social barriers.
Backed by research and personal stories, the book argues that a richer, more fulfilling life starts with something simple: saying hello.
There are many young people (digital natives), who can benefit from this too. You can order the book here.
Jim Peterson
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In Case You Missed It:
New York Garden
Yellow Flowers
Northlawn Flower Farm Instagram
Jan Johnsen's Substack
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