We are so blessed to live in this region, complete with its lush greens and pops of spring flower power everywhere.  The weather sure has been nice, which might be the reason I am already in the mood to dive into some shade plants…

Almost looks the part. Always misses the point. Astroturf is a bit like a house guest who arrives with excellent references; clean, quiet, low maintenance, and promising not to be any trouble at all. At first, it’s a delight. It settles in beautifully. Everything looks tidy, predictable, calm. You stand back and think, why didn’t […]

In this mini-design series of “telling your garden story” we’ve looked at the introduction (the entry sequence) and ideas for an overall theme. Today I want to explore ways to help you strengthen your narrative by unifying the individual garden chapters using repetition. There’s a balance between allowing each distinct garden area have its own…

Now that we are in the full swing of autumn, ornamental grasses in our region are starting to strut their stuff.  Instead of “bloom” I get to talk “plume” this week, and they are certainly “pluming” at the moment!  As I walk my own landscape, the many grasses I have planted over the years make […]

Low-Maintenance Landscapes for High-Maintenance Joints Let’s be honest: aging at home is the dream. You know where the light switches are, the neighbors wave (even if you forget their names), and your favorite chair has molded itself to your exact shape. But while your home may be aging like a fine wine, your landscape might […]

As climate patterns shift and summers grow hotter and drier – even here in the lush Pacific Northwest – more gardeners are turning to xeriscaping. This water-wise landscaping approach uses drought-tolerant plants to create gardens that are both beautiful and sustainable. At West Seattle Nursery, we’re proud to offer a carefully curated selection of xeric […]

As you read the title above, I am curious what comes to your mind.  Could it be Irish or Scotch Moss?  Maybe haggis or scotch eggs versus corned beef or colcannon (a funky Irish cabbage dish)?  Did you think of Jameson, Bushmills or Tulamore Dew Irish Whiskey?  Or is it a bit peatier Glenmorangie, Johnny […]

Fall colors stylize and paint this garden design highlighted with Japanese Maples. Create a walk with natural flagstone through the garden. Finish with a circular seating area with a surface of fine, crushed gravel to create the perfect spot to relax in the garden. SHOPPING LIST (2) Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) Mix or match: 2 varieties of Japanese Maples […]

“What That Plant Tag Really Means” An occasionally alarming translation guide to nursery lingo. You’re in the nursery. The sun is shining. You’re feeling hopeful. Your cart has one pot of something with coral blooms, a surprise lavender you didn’t plan for, and that mysterious plant from the clearance table that you’re 60% sure is […]

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