In The Garden

So where do flowers really come from? by Charlie Thigpen   Photography by Chuck St. John We are so lucky to live in the Magic City where blooms and fabulous foliage plants grace our gardens and commercial properties throughout the year. Where do all these flower and plants that beautify our town come from? You… Read More

Add a personal touch by making your own garden accessories. by Charlie Thigpen   Photography by Chuck St. John Over the last few years, we’ve taught hundreds of people how to make their own garden planters. In our after–work classes, we show students the basics of making a hypertufa container. Hyper Who-fa? Hypertufa is a… Read More

Small vignettes create dramatic focal points. by Charlie Thigpen   Photography by Chuck St. John When we were young our parents would tell us not to “make a scene” as we were beginning to misbehave or throw a tantrum. I’m telling you that it’s okay to make a scene — as long as you do it in… Read More

Water features add a soothing nature to your landscaping. by Charlie Thigpen   Photography by Chuck St. John Water is essential for life. Maybe that’s why it’s soothing to hear running water in the garden. I’ve always thought a good garden can be enjoyed for its sounds as well as its sights. If you close your… Read More

It all starts with a good plan. by Charlie Thigpen It’s a New Year and the perfect time to reflect on your landscape. Are you happy with the way it looks? Does it fit the needs of your family? When you buy a house you also buy a yard, so make your landscape an extension… Read More

Holiday Planters for Your Home. by Charlie Thigpen, Photography by Chuck St. John Dress ordinary holiday plants for the holidays for a fun, festive look. Give them a facelift with berries and branches from the garden to make your home sparkle. It’s not always what you use but how you use it. Take a look… Read More

A versatile decor item can work in a number of ways. by Charlie Thigpen    Photography by Chuck St. John One of our favorite finds for the holidays is a mercury-glass votive holder that I thought would be fun to decorate with.  When I flipped the votive holder over, I decided to use a few of… Read More

Create a whole new look with small changes. by Charlie Thigpen    Photography by Chuck St. John At our shop we don’t just sell products, we also like to show and share ideas. Here is a simple way to get the most out of an inexpensive grapevine wreath. We decorated this 24-inch wreath for Halloween, Thanksgiving… Read More

Designing with fall foliage. by Charlie Thigpen, Photography by Chuck St. John It’s always a nice touch to have an arrangement to greet guests for parties or family gatherings.  But what happens when you don’t have flowers? Go to Plan B and use what you have.  If you really open your eyes, you can usually… Read More

An easy gardening experience. by Charlie Thigpen    Photography by Chuck St. John Terrariums are all the rage, and why not? They can be whimsical or elegant to reflect your personality, and require minimal care. These mini–ecosystems can be used as a centerpiece, a focal point or they can mingle with potted plants in your home… Read More

Spring to fall, this plant reigns supreme. by Charlie Thigpen    Photography by Chuck St. John Who is the king of color in the garden? Your holiness of coleus reins supreme and graces the landscape from spring until fall’s first frost with fancy, multi-hued foliage. Bow to the one who drapes his quilt-like robe across our… Read More