It was a project that started with a drawing (like most of our big jobs) but turned into a design build. Step one, remove the rotted log benches. Then, instead of working with the existing shape, we took shovels and changed the shape of the cuts in the hill to curves.

I’ve worked a lot on getting gardens to preform year round, and it’s difficult, especially when factors like water usage come into account too. But there are some plants to think about if August is an important time for you, and why wouldn’t it be? Summer is still amazing.

When I went back today, I was pleased that the peach tree and apple tree, planted last fall, had fruit on them, and the blue spruce trees had grown, the ash trees looked good, and the honeylocust was lovely.

We have been blessed with many opportunities to transform spaces, and this opportunity was a gift. I am just so thrilled that she is as happy with the project as we are.

What have we been up to at work lately? www. mccumberfinegardens.com.  Lots of terracing, patios and containers.

One problem that people often overlook in the southwest is the need for shade gardens.

When is it safe to plant in May?…

We all drive by those gorgeous, colorful perennial gardens and wish they were ours.