Convallaria majalis – Lily of the Valley: History, Landscape Use, Invasiveness & Substitutes

Discover the history, landscape uses, invasiveness, and native plant substitutes for Convallaria majelis (Lily of the Valley). Learn how to grow it responsibly, manage its spread, and explore royalty free images for your garden or horticulture blog.

Taxus cuspidata ‘Capitata’: A Classic Evergreen With a Deep Canadian Landscape History

Discover the history, care tips, landscape uses, and fun facts about Taxus cuspidata ‘Capitata’ (Upright Japanese Yew). Learn why this hardy evergreen has been a Canadian landscape favourite for over a century—and how to grow it successfully in your own garden.

Abies balsamea (Balsam Fir): A Canadian Classic Worth Knowing

There’s something unmistakably nostalgic about Abies balsamea, the balsam fir. Its resinous scent lingers in the air long after you brush past it—a classic northern fragrance that feels like winter cabins, quiet forests, and home.

Pinus nigra in Canada: A Hardy but Imperfect Landscape Pine

Although Pinus nigra (Austrian pine) is widely planted across Canada, especially in Ontario, it’s not without issues. I’ve never been its biggest fan, but there’s no denying its usefulness in challenging Canadian landscapes where few conifers tolerate urban stress, road salt, or poor soils. Below is a fresh, Canadian‑context overview of its origins, hardiness, landscape … Read more

Picea glauca – White Spruce: A Native Evergreen With Exceptional Landscape Value

Discover Picea glauca (White Spruce), a hardy native evergreen ideal for privacy, windbreaks, and natural landscapes. Learn its care needs, pests, and top cultivars—and book a free landscape consultation.

Why Native Plants Are the Secret to a Thriving Southern Ontario Landscape

Discover the benefits of using native plants in your garden. Learn why species like white oak (Quercus alba) are essential for beauty, biodiversity, and sustainability in southern Ontario landscapes.

What is a “Spring Clean Up”?

Spring Clean-Up: Preparing for a Blooming Season Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and our spring clean-up tasks are essential to ensure our gardens and landscapes thrive throughout the season. Here’s why we perform these tasks: Promotes Healthy Growth. Removing dead material from gardens removes the potential for any overwintering pests to infect … Read more

Weed Barriers and Landscape Fabric

Weed Barrier and why it is BAD – and doesn’t work…  AKA – Landscape Fabric, Geotextile.  And what you should do instead….    As a landscaper, I always dread each time a client asks us to install weed barrier. Landscaping brings a lot of challenges and weeds in gardens are among the greatest. Too many … Read more