What do a peach-stealing squirrel, jelly-like gummosis, and old wounds have in common? A not-so-peachy garden dilemma offers lessons about tree health, resilience, and what may be happening beneath the surface.

A neglected vegetable garden, leftover seeds, and a disappointing spring harvest reveal unexpected possibilities for fall planting—and a reminder that it’s not too late to begin again.

What if doing nothing is actually one of the most important things we can do? A modest vegetable harvest, one perfect cherry tomato, birdwatching, and peaceful moments in the garden remind Mary Stone that slowing down often reveals life's greatest gifts.

A healthy rose suddenly became loose in the soil, revealing a mystery beneath the mulch. What first appeared to be chipmunk damage led to an unexpected culprit, solutions for protecting treasured plants, and a reminder that gardens—and life—often invite us to look beneath the surface.

Leave room for wandering. What began as a trip to purchase annuals became a treasure hunt filled with unusual vegetables, greenhouse discoveries, practical planting tips, and a reminder that some of life's greatest treasures are found beyond what we originally came looking for.

From the difference between edible rhubarb and ornamental rhubarb, from blooming tea to rhubarb custard pie, Mary Stone reflects on friendship, healing, and the beautiful ways kindness helps us grow through difficult seasons of life.

Sometimes what we see as a problem is merely a message. A visit to a longtime client’s garden reveals lessons in declining plants, thriving moss, and how working with nature—not against it—can lead to something even more beautiful.

As spring unfolds, I reflect on what remains, what falls away, and what—over time—returns to nourish us again. In this post, we explore leaf mold vs. mulch in the garden, along with a simple lesson in letting go inspired by nature’s cycles.

As winter loosens its grip, early spring invites us to tend—clearing what’s too heavy, redistributing what can nourish, and making space for what’s ready to grow.

What does “native” really mean — and who decides? A visit to Pittsburgh’s Point State Park, reflections on urban ecosystems, and even the humble stink bug reveal surprising lessons about biodiversity, adaptation, and belonging in our ever-changing garden of life.