An Appreciation for Plants that Protect Themselves | Letter from the Editor

MY, HOW TIMES have changed. That’s what I keep thinking, looking around my own garden in recent years. I’ve been struck by the same thought over and over as I read “The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year,” the latest book by Margaret Renkl (illustrated with gorgeous collages by her brother, Billy Renkl, like the one above), which takes us through a year in her garden 1,000 miles to the south of mine in Nashville.

You may finally be ready to update your home whether it's trying a new paint color or swapping out your current light fixture. However, there are some fundamental things that designers, architects, or renovators want you to keep in mind before beginning a home remodeling project, so you don't end up unhappy or unsatisfied with the new remodel.

BHG / Ana Cadena

Back in May, Lex Madden, bar manager at Point Easy in Denver, Colorado, told BHG that “the spritz is absolutely the drink of summer!” 

One of nature's most unique plants, the monkey puzzle tree (also known as araucaria araucana) is a bit of a mystery. Due to their unusual, thorny branches, it's a great option for plant lovers looking to add a dose of flair to their space. «There isn't a tree out there like the monkey puzzle, especially compared to native choices within the United States,» says Tamara Hogan, resident plant expert at Fast Growing Trees, an online nursery. «Its blade-like leaves and branch structure are unlike any other conifer trees. It's also an evergreen that can handle some cooler, humid environments since the southern areas of Chile is where this tree comes from.» Another benefit of growing one? You can live with a monkey puzzle tree for a long time. It can grow up to 90 feet tall and survive for thousands of years if it isn't cut down. However, since a monkey puzzle tree is so rare, many people aren't sure how to make one thrive indoors or outdoors. To help you out, we've consulted with experts at Fast Growing Trees to share everything you need to know about caring for a monkey puzzle tree.

Fionuala Campion says in her article, Dazzling Deer-Resistant Perennials, “Though very graceful and delightful to behold in their native habitat, deer are a voracious force to reckon with in many Northern California gardens, particularly in summer and fall.” But these majestic creatures are not just an issue for gardeners on the west coast. There are populations of deer in all 50 states, and all are munching on the many different plants we’re growing across the country.

How to Grow and Care for Japanese Spirea Spiraea japonica

Jacquemontia Pentanthos – a stunning yet often-overlooked climbing vine that’s a true showstopper in both tropical gardens and cultivated indoor spaces. With its sky-blue flowers and lush foliage, this plant beckons you to explore its charming characteristics and easy-care nature!

Denmark continues to rank as one of the happiest nations on earth. If you want what they have, it’s time to learn about hygge garden ideas. Hygge is a concept that seems to escape Americans with our hustle and bustle and “go get ‘em” attitude, but it seems we could learn a thing or two from our Danish friends. They celebrate the concept of hygge outdoors or inside. A hygge outdoor space may include a hygge patio and hygge backyard, but don’t misconstrue the idea behind hygge — it belongs with you wherever you go. Keep reading to learn about hygge and how you can incorporate it into your lifestyle.

Almonds, those delectable and nutritious nuggets of goodness, have a history as rich and varied as the lands from which they spring.  Join us as we embark on a flavorful expedition to unearth the secrets of where almonds truly come from, revealing the hidden gems of history, tradition, and culinary delight that make these nuts so much more than just a snack. Scroll on and be prepared to savor the tale of these nuts like never before.

As September comes to an end, it is important to recognize that this month is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. In the past 30 years, obesity rates have tripled among youth in the United States. There are many factors that contribute to obesity in children, including genetics, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating habits, and other lifestyle factors. Being obese at a young age increases the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood. Some of those diseases include high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in helping your child maintain a healthy weight now and throughout their life.

How to Grow and Care for American Bittersweet Vines Celastrus scandens