Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries: Recent Episodes
Mary Stone
Join columnist and garden designer Mary Stone in sharing dilemmas, delights, & discoveries in the garden of life.
What happens when life tests the very lessons we hope to live?
In this heartfelt episode, Mary Stone shares an emotionally difficult week that almost preempted the weekly chat. She invites listeners onto her screened porch, where a summer thunderstorm replaces the noisy cicadas, setting the stage for a conversation about acceptance, resilience, and hope.
Inspired by a recent Call to Calm meditation with Panache Desai, Mary reflects on the image of a single leaf surrendering to the wind and explores how embracing our emotions—rather than resisting them—can help us find peace.
Mary also shares an update on her book, The Lesson of the Leaf, and why one closed door has become the beginning of a new path.
Along the way, she revisits a favorite summertime story about the Dog Days of Summer and the curious origins of the phrase "sweating like a pig," bringing a few laughs to a humid August afternoon.
The episode closes with a heartfelt reflection on the love we share with our dogs, the pieces of our hearts they carry, and the reassurance that, even during life's hardest seasons, help is on the way.
Link to companion blog post:
Doing Nothing and Everything: Wisdom from Nature & Gardens
🌿 Related Links
If you enjoyed today's reflection, you'll also enjoy my earlier Episode 234 Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature, where winter's quiet offers another reminder that growth often begins when nothing appears to be happening.
Episode 263: Doing Nothing Is Everything: Wisdom from Nature & Gardens
Episode 69: The Origin of the Dog Days of Summer- (including the stories behind "Dog Days" and "Sweating Like a Pig")
Blog: The Origin of the Dog Days of Summer
Other helpful links:
Panache Desai free Call to Calm Meditations
Connect with Mary Stone
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
On a cool, humid summer morning from her screened porch, Mary Stone reflects on the richness of slowing down.
From a modest vegetable harvest and the gift of one perfectly ripe cherry tomato to birdwatching, fledgling birds, wandering goats, and the hidden life beneath our gardens, she discovers that doing nothing is often far from doing nothing at all.
Join Mary as she explores gratitude, presence, the wisdom found in simply noticing, and the many ways nature and gardens continue to nurture us—even when they don't produce as we'd hoped.
In this episode:
- Why a tiny garden harvest brought unexpected joy
- The hidden purpose of voles and poison ivy
- Birdwatching as a practice of presence
- Dennis Briede's inspiring "sit" tradition
- Garlic scapes, beet greens, and a little garden humor
- What nature and gardens teach us about patience, hope, and letting life unfold
Sometimes the greatest discoveries aren't found by doing more, but by slowing down long enough to notice what nature has been offering all along.
🌿 Related Links
- Ep 262 - Beneath the Surface: The Mystery of the Missing Roots
- Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
Other helpful links:
- The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron (mentioned in the episode)
- 🐦 Cornell Lab of Ornithology – All About Birds
- Epic Gardening YouTube video
How to Grow Garlic | Garlic Scapes, Harvesting, & Curing
Connect with Mary Stone
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A thriving rose suddenly becomes loose in the soil, revealing a mystery hidden beneath the mulch. What first appears to be Chipmunk Damage leads to a closer look—Voles, a likely culprit.
Mary Stone explores the differences between Moles and Voles, practical ways to protect treasured plants, and how gardens often remind us that what we see on the surface rarely tells the whole story.
“Sometimes the greatest lessons, in gardens and in life, begin when we dig a little deeper.”
In this episode:
- A garden mystery unfolds beneath a client's rose garden.
- Chipmunks, moles, and voles—who's really responsible?
- How hardware-cloth baskets can protect valuable roses and shrubs.
- Why poison is not an ideal solution.
- A white pine update with encouraging news.
- Reflections on accepting what we cannot control while tending what matters most.
Related Episodes to Enjoy:
- Ep. 66 – Chipmunk Remedies and Legends
- Ep. 185 – Preservation of the Paulinskill: Overcoming Hardships - how tree tubes used in habitat restoration inspired another way to protect vulnerable plants from unseen damage below ground.
- Ep. 261 – Treasures from a Countryside Garden Tour
Connect with Mary Stone
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
What makes a garden unforgettable? Sometimes it's a rare plant or a beautiful pond. More often, it's the people behind the garden.
Join Mary Stone for a day exploring seven remarkable private gardens on the 32nd Annual Countryside Garden Tour, hosted by the Warwick Valley Gardeners.
Along the way, she meets passionate gardeners, discovers clever design ideas, learns about unusual plants, shares conversations with fellow garden lovers, and uncovers the stories that make each landscape unique.
Whether you enjoy touring gardens or appreciate the beauty and wisdom they offer, I invite you to come along for the journey.
Link to the Related Blog Post: Treasures from a Countryside Garden Tour
Related Episodes
🌿 Episode 260 – The Flag and the Knot: Growing Forward Anyway
🌿 Episode 259 – What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life
🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom
🌿 Episode 257 – Love Lovage: Treasures at Well-Sweep Herb Farm
🌿 Episode 256 – Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees
🌿 Ep. 22 – Lessons from Spruce and Forest Pansies of Hope(referenced in this episode during the discussion about Norway spruce)
Thank you to the Warwick Valley Gardeners, the homeowners who graciously opened their gardens, and my companions—Susan, Tara, Kathleen, and young Thomas—for making the day one to remember, Mary Stone
Connect with Mary Stone
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A "quick" Fourth of July project turned into an unexpected lesson in patience, perseverance, and letting go of perfection.
After years of waiting to paint an old flagpole, Mary Stone decides it's time to raise a new flag. What follows is a comedy of mystery knots, weathered rope, improvised repairs, and a reminder that life rarely unfolds under perfect conditions.
Along the way, she reflects on freedom, belonging, the wisdom of gardens, and how nature keeps moving forward despite imperfections. Plus, a brief update on a familiar garden nemesis—poison ivy.
In this episode:
- A Fourth of July flagpole adventure
- The lesson hidden in an old knot
- Why perfection can keep us stuck
- Gardens as teachers of resilience
- A poison ivy encounter
Enjoy the companion Blog Post: The Flag & the Knot – Growing Forward Anyway.
Related Episodes:
🌿 Episode 259 – What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life
A reflection on memory, legacy, and the gifts we carry with us.
🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom
How beauty and meaning remain, even when expectations aren't met.
🌿 Episode 255 – Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life
Exploring our shared desire for connection, purpose, and belonging.
🌿 Ep 108. Value of Virginia Creeper vs. Poison Ivy
Connect with Mary Stone:
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this Fourth of July episode, Mary reflects on a Victorian berry spoon gifted by a friend's son, a family table and long-forgotten letter from her father, a dear friend's journey to United States citizenship, and the lessons unfolding in the vegetable garden.
From heirlooms and promises to volunteer tomatoes and a bird building a nest, this episode explores the stories, values, and acts of kindness we carry forward from one generation to the next.
As we celebrate 250 years of our nation's history, may we pause to consider what we are planting, preserving, and passing on in our own Garden of Life.
"Without context, they're just objects. With context, they become vessels carrying pieces of our lives." — Mary Stone
Link to the Companion Blog Post: What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life
Related Episodes:
🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom
🌿 Episode 255 – Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life
🌿 Episode 256 – Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees
🌿 Episode 257 – Love Lovage: Treasures at Well-Sweep Herb Farm
🌿 Episode 28 – No-Till Gardening with Patti Doell of Little Big Farm
Connect with Mary Stone
Visit: AskMaryStone.com
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
On a humid morning after a much-needed rain, Mary Stone reflects on the celebration of the life of legendary New Jersey gardener and friend Marty Carson.
From stories of children helping to prepare the gardens to the remarkable tale of the Dove Tree (also known as the Handkerchief Tree) to an unexpected gift from Marty's son, this episode explores how gardens teach us to notice beauty, kindness, and one another.
Though beloved gardeners may pass, the gardens they create—and the lives they touch—continue to bloom.
Link to the Companion Post:The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn’t Bloom
Mentioned in this episode:
🌿 The Two Best Gardeners of the Garden State-Blog Post (June 8, 2017)
🌿 Extraordinary Gardeners, Extraordinary Plants - Blog Post (June 18, 2018)
🌿 Episode 25 - Baobab Tree of Life: Growing Kindness
Quote from this episode:
"The Dove Trees didn't bloom this year. But they will. Gardens bloom again. Kindness blooms again. Love blooms again."
Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A visit to Well-Sweep Herb Farm in Warren County, New Jersey, leads to unexpected discoveries both in the garden and in life.
Mary Stone shares highlights from a tour with third-generation grower Patrick McDuffee, explores the beauty and lore of herbs such as Plantain, Scented Geraniums, Jewelweed, and Lovage, and reflects on the treasures often hidden in plain sight.
Back home, a thriving 'Jethro Tull' Coreopsis, gifted to her years ago by her dear friend Marty Carson, becomes a poignant reminder that love, friendship, and the lessons gathered along the way continue to bloom long after people leave our lives.
In This Episode
🌿 Touring Well-Sweep Herb Farm with Patrick McDuffee
🌿 Discovering the beauty of lovage
🌿 Plantain, jewelweed, and other herbal treasures
🌿 Native plants and Venus flytraps
🌿 Remembering Marty Carson through a blooming coreopsis
🌿 Finding unexpected treasures in the Garden of Life
Link to the Companion Blog Post: Love, Lovage & Treasures at Well-Sweep Farm
Thank you for joining me in the Garden of Life. 🌿💛
Related Episodes & Links
- Episode 217: Moth Surveying in a New Jersey Mountain Meadow
- Episode 157: Benefits of Plantain & Dandelions
- Episode 20: Unexpected Furry Messenger – Father John’s Memorial Garden
- Well-Sweep Herb Farm: https://wellsweep.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Join Mary Stone as she reflects on Spiderwort, a native plant growing in the wrong place; a conversation with a dear client; the wisdom of the song "Crooked Tree"; and a reminder that what appears flawed or out of place may have a purpose we cannot yet see.
Along the way, Mary shares a brief update on her vegetable garden, a surprising use for carrot greens, and a favorite story from The Lesson of the Leaf about a beech leaf that landed on her shoulder just when she needed it most.
Link to the Related Blog Post: Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees
In this episode:
- When Spiderwort becomes too much of a good thing
- Why a troublesome plant may be exactly right somewhere else
- The wisdom behind the song Crooked Tree
"Spiderwort doesn't belong everywhere. But it belongs somewhere."
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life. 🌿🍃🌳
Related Podcasts and Posts:
The Fall of the Leaf – BlogPost about the Prologue to The Lesson of the Leaf
Ep 83. The Fall of the Leaf
Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life - Blog
Ep 255 - Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life
Link to Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway’s song - Crooked Tree
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares an unexpected realization that emerged while revising her book proposal for The Lesson of the Leaf to Hay House Publishing. Along the way, she reflects on belonging, commitment, the wisdom of gardens, and the connections that sustain us through every season of life.
Plus, a garden update featuring radishes, sunflowers, clover, and a reminder that growth often happens beneath the shelter of something larger than ourselves.
Thanks for tuning in!
Link to Companion Post: Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Forest Bathing Helps Loneliness - Blog Post
Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf– Blog Post
Ep 180 Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf
Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares a spring greenhouse adventure that begins with shopping for annuals and vegetables and turns into a delightful journey of unexpected discoveries.
Along the way, she reflects on a bear emerging from a patch of skunk cabbage, bird nests tucked among flowering shrubs, a mysterious hornet visitor, and the wisdom that can emerge when we leave room for wandering.
Mary also offers practical tips for selecting healthy annuals and creating beautiful kitchen gardens filled with flowers, herbs, and vegetables.
Perhaps one of life's greatest lessons is this: some of the best treasures are found when we venture beyond what we originally came looking for.
Special thanks to Steve Oken and Stonehedge Growers for inspiring this week's greenhouse wanderings and introducing me to some unexpected treasures.
Companion Blog Post: Leave Room for Wandering: Unexpected Greenhouse Treasures
Previous Podcast Episodes:
Ep 251 – Healing Beneath the Mayapple: Skunk Cabbage Wisdom
Ep 94 - Starting an Organic Garden & DIY Soil Testing
Ep 28 - Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
Ep 149 - Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community
Related Blog Posts:
Starting an Organic Garden
Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community
Starting a No-till Garden
Old Farmer's Almanac Planting Calendar:
https://www.almanac.com/gardening/planting-calendar
Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares reflections from a deeply meaningful weekend serving as a Big Buddy at Comfort Zone Camp for children grieving the loss of a parent or sibling to suicide.
Through stories of Mayapple, Skunk Cabbage, Barred Owls, Nesting Birds, and an unforgettable Black Bear encounter near the creek, this episode explores Healing, Resilience, Emotional Courage, and the Wisdom Waiting Beneath the Surface of the Natural World.
Along the way, Mary revisits earlier podcast stories about Mayapple folklore, Ken Roberts' beautiful song Mandrakes, and the remarkable lessons hidden within even the most unusual woodland plants.
Link to Companion Blog Post: Healing Beneath the Mayapple
Previous Related Podcasts & Posts
Ep 252. Edible vs. Ornamental Rhubarb — Kindness Helps Heal
Episode 31: Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye (Featuring Ken Roberts' song: Mandrakes)
Previous blog posts: Mayapple of my Eye
Rhubarb Edible vs. Ornamental— Kindness Helps Heal
Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
This week, from the screen porch, Mary Stone shares reflections on edible versus ornamental rhubarb—both unusual, delightful, and deer-resistant additions to the garden. She also shares stories of rhubarb custard pie, overwintered parsley, blooming tea, pole beans, and other decorative vegetables woven among flower gardens.
The episode wraps up with reflections on healing through friendship and community. And the garden lessons found in allowing others to help us through difficult seasons of life. 🌿
Link to the Companion Blog Post: Rhubarb Edible vs. Ornamental— Kindness Helps Heal
🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts:
Ep 96 - Mending Fences with Forsythia
Ep 101 - Woodcock Dance — Making a Meadow
Ep 247 - Nothing Is Wasted: Leaf Mold, Mulch & Letting Go
Blog Posts:
Mending Fences with Forsythia
Woodcock Dance — Making a Meadow
Leaf Mold vs. Mulch & The Lesson of Letting Go
- Parsley comeback story: Parsley Surprise
Special Mentions:
- Panache Desai – Call to Calm
- Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice
- Songs of Hospice project in Promises That Live Beyond Seasons
Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
What a Changing Garden Teaches - Finding What Belongs
Sometimes what we see as a problem is simply a message.
While visiting a longtime client in Sparta, New Jersey, Mary Stone reflects on shifting conditions in our landscapes—from struggling rhododendrons and declining pachysandra to the beauty and wisdom of moss. Along the way, she revisits an old dilemma—ants in a mossy patio—with a fresh perspective shaped by time, experience, and a growing appreciation for nature’s balance.
Link to the Companion Post: What a Changing Garden Teaches
🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts:
Podcast Episodes:
- Ep 121 – Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies
- Ep 249 – Living Mulch: Layering with Native Plants
- Ep 173 – Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons
- Ep 10 – Beauty in Dreariness, Furry Invaders
- Ep 250 - Weeping Cherry Dilemmas: Trees Tell a Story
Blog Posts:
- Ants Be Gone
- Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies
- Magnificent Moss
- Native Rhododendrons
Garden Dilemmas? Visit AskMaryStone.com or listen on your favorite podcast app.
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A weeping cherry tree begins to “bleed,” revealing what lies beneath—from soil stress to planting missteps. Plus, seed-starting tips and a reflection on where we’re truly meant to grow.
In this episode, I share what gummosis can tell us about tree health and planting practices, and why repeated plant failure in the same spot deserves a closer look.
We also revisit how weeping cherry trees are grafted, what reversion means, and how to care for them thoughtfully.
Along the way, I share a few clever seed-planting techniques from listeners and a small correction from last week’s episode—because the garden is always teaching.
Link to the Companion Blog Post: When a Weeping Cherry “Bleeds”: What Lies Beneath
🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts:
- Ep 247 - Nothing Is Wasted: Leaf Mold, Mulch & Letting Go
- Ep 249 - Living Mulch: Layering with Native Plants
- Reverting Weeping Cherry - Blog Post
- How to make DIY Seed Tape
Garden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Replacing mulch with living layers that nourish soil, support wildlife, and gently teach us patience.
What if you could stop mulching—and let plants do the work instead?
In this episode, we explore “living mulch” with native groundcovers and layered plantings that support soil, wildlife, and a self-sustaining garden. Along the way: spring planting timing, a client story, and a gentle reminder—plants sleep, creep, then leap.
🌱 Related Episodes
If you’d like to dig a little deeper, these earlier episodes pair beautifully with today’s conversation:
· Ep 247: Leaf Mold, Mulch, and the Lesson of Letting Go
· Ep 206: Soil Temperatures and Sowing Seeds
· Ep 121: Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies
· Ep 31: Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
After a harsh winter, Mary Stone reflects on healing in the garden and in life—sharing spring pruning tips, plant care insights, and a humorous tale of “hotdog flies”—all woven with a gentle reminder to slow down, notice beauty, and make room for joy.
Link to the Companion Post: Healing After Winter: In the Garden—and in Life
Links to related Podcasts and Posts:
Ep. 92: The Secret Life of Pinecones
Ep 155. Spacing Plants and Splendid Smokebush
Blog Post: Rejuvenation Pruning & Smokebush
Blog post: Remedies for Boxwood Leaf Miner
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
As spring unfolds, I find myself reflecting on what remains, what falls away, and what—over time—returns to nourish us again.
In this episode, I share a walk in the woods that took an unexpected turn, along with listeners’ questions about using leaves or wood chips in the garden. From there, we explore the benefits of leaf mold versus traditional mulch—how to make it, when to use it, and why it may be one of nature’s most generous gifts.
With Easter upon us—a season that holds endings and beginnings in the same breath—I also reflect on a personal decision about letting go, inspired by the image of a leaf carried by water.
In nature, nothing is wasted.
And perhaps… neither are the moments in our lives.
Link to the Companion Blog Post: Leaf Mold vs. Mulch & the Lesson of Letting Go
🌱 In this episode:
• How deep to apply leaves in garden beds
• What leaf mold is and how to make it
• Leaf mold vs. wood mulch (including dyed mulch concerns)
• When fresh wood chips are appropriate
• The idea of “living mulch” in mature gardens
• Lawn tips to support pollinators
🌿 Garden of Life Reflection:
What falls away isn’t the end—
It’s part of what feeds what comes next.
🔗 Learn more:
AskMaryStone.com
🔍 Keywords:
leaf mold, mulch, gardening tips, soil health, sustainable gardening, letting go, garden of life
🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcast:
No-Mow May helps Pollinators - Blog Post
Ep 103 - No Mow May & Marvelous Moss
Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear - Blog Post
Ep 246 - Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Sometimes tending isn’t about removing—it’s about redistributing, restoring, and making space for what’s ready to grow.
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.
In this episode, I share what I’m learning as I step into full groundskeeping—raking matted leaves, supporting soil recovery, and embracing a “tapestry lawn” of violets, clover, plantain, and dandelions.
We explore:
· When leaves help—and when they hinder
· Why clover and “weeds” deserve a second look
· What Creeping Charlie teaches about balance
· And how tending the land mirrors tending our lives
🌱 Perhaps most of all, early spring reminds us:
- Not everything needs to be removed
- Some things need to be shifted
- And something good is ready to grow
Link to the Companin Blog Post: Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear
🌼 Related Episodes and Blog Posts to enjoy:
· Ep 157 Benefits of Plantain and Dandelion Weeds
· Ep 168. Pollinators Love No-Mow Clover Lawns
· Ep 203 - A Violet and Pansy Season of Happiness
· Plantain & Dandelion Benefits - Blog Post
· Violet & Pansy Season of Happiness - Blog Post
Garden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com
Thank you for tuning in!
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A roadside walk becomes a lesson in tending what doesn’t belong—and trusting what quietly blooms.
From plogging to snowdrops, this episode explores how small actions and nature’s signs guide us back to hope, healing, and the “lesson of belief.”
In this episode, Mary Stone shares how a roadside walk became a lesson in tending both the outer and inner worlds. What began as noticing litter turned into a practice of care—picking up what doesn’t belong, much like weeding the undesirables in the garden of life.
Along the way, snowdrops appear as if overnight, a snapping turtle tests the thaw, and a quiet realization emerges: The Lesson of the Leaf may also be… The Lesson of Belief.
Perhaps they are one and the same.
Thank you for tuning in—and for walking alongside me.
Link to the Companion Blog Post: Early Spring Reflections: What the Roadside Reveals About Belief
🌿 Related Episodes & Stories
If this episode resonated, you'll also enjoy:
- Ep. 244 – A Late Winter Walk to Remember
- Ep. 129 – Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
- Ep. 98 – Winter Flowers and Folklore
More reflections: https://askmarystone.com
Small moments matter.
Nature speaks—if we pause to listen.
And even after disruption… growth returns.
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Some walks stay with us long after they end.
A quiet rainy walk through the late-winter woods becomes a meditation on healing, hope, and nature’s wisdom. On a misty morning, Mary Stone and her faithful companion, Jolee, head into the forest, where the rhythm of rain and the stillness of the trees create space for reflection.
Inspired by an earlier column, March Folklore of Hope, Mary reflects on weather sayings passed through generations, the promise of snowdrops pushing through winter’s frost, and the reminder that storms eventually give way to new growth.
Along the way, she recalls a lesson from her brother’s Tai Chi practice — the art of Pushing Hands, where strength comes not from resistance but from balance and redirection.
And in a meaningful moment at the end of the episode, Mary shares a breakthrough toward completing the manuscript for her forthcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf. “
Sometimes the most memorable walks are the ones that help us see the path ahead more clearly.
Link to the Companion Blog Post: A Late Winter Walk to Remember & March Folklore of Hope
Related Episodes & Stories
🌱 Ep. 34 – Forest Bathing Helps Loneliness/ Willowwood Champion Trees
🌱 Ep. 98 – Winter Flowers and Folklore
🌱 Ep 35 - Leaf Therapy, Essential Oaks
🌱 Ep 180 - Overview of The Lesson of the Leaf
Blog Post: Native vs. Invasive Plants: Who Decides What Belongs? To view Blaine Rothhuser’s stunning photo.
📖 Companion blog reflection: March Folklore of Hope
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
What does “native” really mean — and who decides?
In this episode of Garden Dilemmas, Mary Stone explores native vs. invasive plants, urban gardens, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance.
From dandelions to the marmorated stink bug, this episode reflects on what belonging means in a rapidly changing landscape. Inspired by Point State Park in Pittsburgh and the writings of Peter Del Tredici, Mary examines novel ecosystems, adaptation, and how urban environments balance native and non-native plants.
A thoughtful look at nature, resilience, and coexistence.
Link to the Companion Post: Native vs. Invasive Plants: Who Decides?
May we tend wisely, welcome thoughtfully, and grow together.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
· Ep. 99 - Wonders of Witch Hazel
· Wonders of Witch Hazel - Blog Post
· Point State Park, an Urban Garden- Pittsburgh, PA
· Ep 157. Benefits of Plantain & Dandelion 'Weeds'
· Benefits of Plantain & Dandelion “Weeds” - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app.
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone
Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Do hard winters curb garden pests? A listener’s question about whether cold weather reduces “bad bugs” leads to a deeper conversation about beneficial insects, biological control, and sustainable pest management.
In this episode, Mary Stone shares insights from the NJ Nursery & Landscape Association’s Total Pro Expo, exploring why most insects belong in our ecosystems and how predator-prey relationships naturally regulate pest populations.
She discusses the importance of native plants, plant diversity, layered landscape design, and nectar-rich flowers in supporting pollinators and beneficial insects.
Nature reminds us that harmony grows not from elimination, but from inviting more of what sustains life in our gardens and in our garden of life.
Companion Blog Post: Inviting the Beneficial Garden Guests
Thanks for tuning in!
Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you’ll Enjoy
Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants
Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom – Blog Post
Ep 68. Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint
Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint – Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
On a slowly thawing winter day, Mary Stone reflects on the relationship between shadows and reflections—in nature, in garden design, and in the tender landscape of the heart.
From Jolee's curious moment at the storm door to the science of the mirror test, from still water in gardens to the hidden wisdom in roots shaped by difficult seasons, this episode explores how gentle awareness can transform survival into growth.
Thanks for tuning in!
Enjoy the Photos on the Companion Blog Post:
Reflections in the Garden of Life
Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you'll enjoy:
Ep 240. Nature's Shadows, Outlines of Love
Nature's Shadows: Outlines of Love & Hope – Blog Post
Link for more about Panache Desai
Videos By Ellen Ebert: Casting Shadows
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In winter’s long light, shadows reveal more than darkness—they outline memory, love, and quiet hope. Mary reflects on Groundhog Day, Peter Pan’s lost shadow, Jung’s shadow self, and the beauty of moonlit snow, weaving garden wisdom with personal healing. From plant care to letting go, this episode explores how light and shadow together shape resilience, reminding us that even in sorrow, hope gently walks beside us.
Link to the Companion Blog Post: Nature’s Shadows: Outlines of Love & Hope
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcast you’ll enjoy:
Ep 192 Groundhog Day - Ancient Origin and Accuracy
Ep 123 Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly
Ep 84 Winter Season of Growth
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
What Yellow Leaves Teach Us
Tending houseplants—and hearts—through seasons of change.
Yellow leaves on a fiddle-leaf fig often point to watering issues—but they can also offer deeper lessons. In this episode, Mary Stone explores common houseplant dilemmas, from root-bound money trees to yellowing leaves and sneaky pests, while sharing a tender personal chapter. Through gardening wisdom and lived experience, she reflects on patience, balance, and how tending plants can help us tend our hearts during times of transition.
Thank you for tuning in!
Companion Blog Posts:
When Fiddle-Leaf Figs Turn Yellow and
Making Room for Growth
Related Podcast and Posts you’ll enjoy:
Ep 146 Money Tree-Houseplants in Duress
A Money Tree Brings Abundance - Blog Post
Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants
Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone reflects on the wisdom of trees after receiving the New Jersey Tree Survey from the Arbor Day Foundation. She explores how trees support mental and emotional well-being, the realities behind tree-planting campaigns, and the value of nurturing growth over time.
A flashback to a fallen Eastern Hemlock and a thriving young beech offers a gentle reminder that even after loss, new life emerges. Hope, it turns out, sometimes takes the form of a tree.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Related Episodes and Posts:
Hope in the Form of a Tree - Blog Post
Ep 130. A Pet Painted Turtle, Beech Leaf Disease
Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease – Blog Post
Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech
Beloved Beech Trees – Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the benefits of using rainwater and snowmelt for indoor plants and how to revive houseplants in duress. She explores the quiet wisdom of water through stories of Christmas cacti, Jolee's water bowl, and flowing streams, and reflects on patience, renewal, and trusting life's natural flow.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Episodes and Posts:
Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom - Blog Post
Ep 89. Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water
Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water – Blog Post
Houseplants in Duress Turn Happy – Blog Post
Benefits of Watering with Rainwater – Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on releasing what no longer serves us and setting intentions that grow in their own time, inspired by nature's rhythms and a New Year water ceremony hosted by Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson. Through garden metaphors and personal insights, she reminds us that what we let go of creates space for quiet, lasting growth.
Thank you for tuning in!
Link for more about Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson
Link to Companion Blog Post: What We Release, What We Grow
Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy:
Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life - Blog Post
Episode 141. Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life
Benefits of Gardening - Blog Post
Ep 139. Legends of Holly and Christmas Trees
Legend of Holly & Christmas Trees - Blog Post
Live Christmas Trees - Blog
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on lessons learned from a year of observation in the garden and wild places beyond it. From copperheads and moths to healing land and personal change, she explores how slowing down, trusting nature, and paying attention to what often goes unseen can lead to growth, understanding, and quiet transformation.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Link to the Companion Blog Post: What Nature & Gardens Taught Us
🌿 Featured Podcasts and Posts:
Ep 234. Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature
Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature – Blog
Ep 221. Curious Copperhead Encounters
Curious Copperhead Encounters – Blog
Ep 195. Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining
Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining - Blog
Ep 217. Moth Surveying in a NJ Mountain Meadow
Moth Survey in a Mountain Meadow – Blog
Ep 200 A Milestone in Our Journey Together
A Milestone in Our Journey Together - Blog Post
Ep 230. Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden
Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden - Blog
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on the wisdom of stillness as an essential part of growth. Through nature’s rhythms and garden observations, she explores how healing and transformation often unfold unseen, offering a gentle preview of themes in Part Two of her forthcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf.
“Stillness isn’t a pause — it’s where growth quietly begins.”
Thanks for Tuning in!
Link to the related posts and podcast:
Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature -- Blog Post
Overview of The Lesson of the Leaf - Blog Post
Episode 180 Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A winter garden project leads Mary Stone to reflect on invasive plants, memorial trees, and the tender wisdom of knowing when it’s time to let go—both in gardens and in life.
This episode is a gentle reminder that healing, like gardening, is an ongoing practice—rooted in observation, compassion, and trust in nature’s rhythm.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll Enjoy.
The Garden Teaches Letting Go - Blog
Ep 61. A Story of Treasured Tuliptrees / Treasured Tulip Trees - Blog
Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech
Beloved Beech Trees and Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease - Blog Posts
Ep 212. Beavers vs. Woodchucks – Barberry Alternatives
Alternatives to Invasive Barberry - Blog
Ep 68 Gift of Meadows and Mountain Mint /
Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on late-season garden projects, including the removal of old telephone poles and the careful harvesting of boulders for new retaining walls—done with deep respect for the surrounding ecosystem. She shares tips for planting perennials with liner plugs, using Stress X to support transplanted shrubs, and managing fallen leaves to benefit both wildlife and soil health.
Weaving garden wisdom with seasonal reflection, Mary Stone shares her tradition of decorating with roadside finds, turning late-fall garden tasks into natural holiday décor while honoring the beauty of gathering gently and respectfully from the land. This episode is a quiet meditation on care, change, and the healing that continues beneath the surface.
Related Podcasts and Posts
Late-Fall Tasks into Décor
Hope Unfolds in Holly’s Renewal
Ep 97. Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks
Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks
Ep. 230 Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden
Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares the surprising gifts of her late-season vegetable garden and highlights the benefits of No-Till gardening. She walks through ripening green tomatoes indoors, saving seeds for next year and putting the garden to bed without disturbing the living soil below — a gentle practice that nurtures healthier plants and fewer weeds.
Mary also reflects on nature’s timing, the season of letting go, and the heartfelt loss of her dear friend and design colleague, Marty Carson. A tender, practical, and hope-filled episode for gardeners and nature lovers navigating their own seasons of change.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcasts & Blog Posts:
Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden— Blog Post
🌿 No-Till Gardening Essentials
No-till Gardening and Starting a No-till Garden— Blog Posts
Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
🌺 Veterans Day Reflections
Significance of Veterans Day Poppies — Blog Post
Ep 135. Significance of Poppies on Veterans Day
🌶️ Hot Peppers & Kitchen Fun
Growing HOT Peppers into cool Jelly — Blog Post
Ep 33. Hot Peppers into Cool Jelly, DIY Worm Castings
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a breathtaking encounter with a flock of grackles while visiting the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice in Fredon, NJ. Their synchronized flight inspires a reflection on the quiet wisdom of nature and the beauty of unity in motion.
How the birds never collide opens a deeper exploration of how grackles — and all flocking birds — navigate together through separation, alignment, and cohesion. Their graceful movement offers a powerful metaphor for how we might live.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Related Podcasts and Posts:
🌿 Flocking Together – Wisdom from Grackles (Blog Post)
🌳 Promises That Live Beyond Seasons – Blog Post
🎧 Episode 228 Promises That Live on Beyond Seasons
Article on the University of Delaware website titled Blackbirds, Fly.
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares an update on her friend and design colleague, Marty Carson, who is now in hospice care in Florida. At the same time, with a heavy heart, she shares news of the closure of the Karen and Quinlan Home for Hospice in Fredon, NJ, due to financial and staffing challenges. Mary and her singing partner, Ken Roberts, volunteer weekly, offering music therapy.
To know that such compassionate care of our elderly and gravely ill is unsustainable is heartbreaking.
Mary wraps up by reflecting on the unfolding of God —or, source, if you prefer —in everything and everyone, and much of it goes beyond our senses. It's in the unseen. There is an eternity in all things, and with that comes hope.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Related Podcast and Posts:
Promises That Live Beyond Seasons - Blog Post
Ep 47. Personal Growth with Houseplants
Personal Growth with Houseplants - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
As fall unfolds, trees show us the art of letting go. From green to gold, orange to red, each leaf teaches us that change brings growth and beauty. In this episode, Mary Stone reflects on how nature mirrors our own seasons of transformation — and how letting go creates room for new life.
Thank you for tuning in!
Related Podcast and Posts:
Sequence of Fall Leaves Brings Life – Blog Post
https://askmarystone.com/sequence-of-fall-leaves-brings-new-life/
Ep 83. The Fall of the Leaf
The Fall of the Leaf - Blog Post
Forager Chef - How to Make Shagbark Hickory Syrup
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the delights and cleanup sagas of Shagbark Hickory trees, highlighting their shaggy bark, edible nuts, and benefits to wildlife. She shares personal experiences and reader anecdotes, such as a client who planted Shagbark hickory for pollination and a reader from Indiana dealing with an excessive amount of nuts.
Mary explains the tree's three-year nut-producing cycle and how mast years and nutless years help balance populations through a process called predator satiation.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcast and Posts:
Acorns and a Ruckus of Blue Jays - Blog Post with Blaine Rothhauser's stunning photos.
Ep 132. Shagbark Hickories and Nutty Mast Years
Shagbark Hickories – Nutty Mast Years - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone recounts witnessing a bear in her pond overnight, perhaps feeding on acorns. The encounter led her to learn about the Acorn Float Test, which assesses the viability of acorns for propagation.
Blue Jays flock to feast on acorns in the fall, making a ruckus. Like squirrels, they bury a stash, though many are never retrieved. Mary admits a previous grudge against Blue Jays, which shifted after observing their nature. She highlights the importance of Oak Trees and Blue Jays in the balance of our natural world.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcast and Posts:
Acorns and a Ruckus of Blue Jays - Blog Post
Ep 35. Leaf Therapy, Essential Oaks
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential - Blog Post
Ep 132. Shagbark Hickories and Nutty Mast Years
Shagbark Hickories – Nutty Mast Years - Blog Post
Growing the Home Garden's YouTube channel: The Float Test: Separating the Good from the Bad Acorns
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the history, benefits, and healing aspects of sunflowers, sharing her return visit to Liberty Farms' Sunflower Maze in Sandyston. Raj Sinha graciously opens the maze to those who benefit from the services of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey each year.
She features meeting Raj's son, who self-published a book, "Jill the Chick." His optimism and actions serve as a testament to younger generations who are increasingly aware of the importance of stewardship and kindness.
Mary concludes with a personal note about a journey in healing, the therapeutic value of nature, and the importance of mental health awareness.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcast and Posts:
A Sunflower Maze of Healing - Blog Post
Ep 213. The Gift of Carol Decker's Wildlife Art
Ep 126. A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the phenomenon of Fairy Rings, caused by fungi creating dark green or brown circular bands in lawns. Craig from New Jersey shares his hilarious experience with Fairy Rings, initially suspecting contamination from pesticides. Mary explains the natural occurrence and folklore of fairy rings.
She also reflects on the ecological significance of fungi, highlighting their role in recycling decay into life. Additionally, Mary shares a heartfelt story from Blaine Rothauser about a Copperhead snake bite, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting all of nature.
Thanks for Tuning In!
Related Posts and Podcasts
The Phenomenon of Fairy Rings - Blog Post
Ep 222. Fascinating Fungi and Wood Wide Web
Ep 221. Curious Copperhead Encounters
Craig's Weeping Willows Gone Wild - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the fascinating world of fungi, particularly Giant Puffball Mushrooms and Jack o' Lantern Mushrooms. She emphasizes the importance of proper identification for those who scavenge for wild mushrooms and shares the foolproof four suggested by Cabinlife.com.
Additionally, Mary explains the concept of the Wood Wide Web, detailing the differences between mycorrhizal fungi and mycelium.
Then concludes by reflecting on how we can learn from the natural world. Like the underground mycelium silently creating fertile soil, as more of us become aware of how destructive perpetuating violence and hate is, we are progressing towards peace.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts
Fun Fall Fungi in Lawns - Blog Post
Ep 88. Insights from the Interdependence of Trees
Insights and Interdependence of Trees - Blog Post
Ep 221. Curious Copperhead Encounters
Curious Copperhead Encounters – Blog Post
Another fascinating fungus – Fairy Rings
CabinLife.com's The Foolproof Four: Edible Wild Mushrooms
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses her experiences with snakes, particularly Copperheads, in her garden and how their hourglass-shaped markings blend into the environment. While venomous, they aren't as dangerous as rumored, and while they benefit us by controlling pests, she shares ways to discourage them from hunkering down in your garden.
The episode concludes with other wildlife encounters that instill fear, followed by excitement and wonder, and invites listeners to share their own wildlife experiences.
Thanks for Tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts
Curious Copperhead Encounters – Blog Post
Ep 211. Truth and Tale of Two Country Gardens
Japanese Stilt Grass & Thistle Remedies - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone describes the beauty and fragrance of Sweet Autumn Clematis, despite its invasive tendencies, suggesting that pruning seed heads before they dry will prevent self-seeding. She introduces an alternative native plant look-alike, Virgin's Bower, clematis virginiana. Though nonfragrant, it's a lure to pollinators. Plus, Mary lists lovely native shrubs to shade the roots of clematis.
She wraps up sharing her recent journey and the therapeutic joy of gardening, emphasizing the gifts of health, time, and family.
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy
Sweet Autumn Clematis Native Alternative - Blog Post
Ep 173. Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons
Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
As a sequel to the last episode, Mary Stone updates the progress of a late-season cardinal nest that she thought was taken by a predator. Later, she learns that the fledglings are likely on the ground, honing their flying skills while being tended by their parents.
She concludes with a reflection based on a plaque passed down by her mother: "Wonder is the Beginning of Wisdom," encouraging listeners to cultivate acceptance and a curiosity to learn about different things, both in nature and among others, because we are all one in this world, in this Garden of Life.
Related Stories:
Curiosity About Cardinals Brings Wisdom - Blog Post
Ep 218. Nature Teaches Endings Bring Beginnings
Nature Teaches Endings Bring Beginnings - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and Nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on how birthdays encourage us to pause and reflect, change, and maybe plant new seeds. She shares the outcomes of her book proposal to Hay House Publishing, which, although initially disappointing, inspires other ways to share The Lesson of the Leaf. She concludes with a heartwarming story about the restoration of a Welcome Home Clematis and a surprise late nesting of cardinals, teaching how endings give way to beginnings.
Related Stories:
Nature Teaches Endings Bring Beginnings - Blog Post
Birthday Reflection Pulse Check (2021)- Blog Post
Ep 37. Merry Season of Love Over Fear
Merry Season of Love over Fear (2021)- Blog Post
Ep 38. Plants Inspire Turning Over a New Leaf
Plants Inspire-Turning Over a New Leaf (2022)-Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and Nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares participating in a moth survey with Blaine Rothauser of GZA Geoenvironmental, Inc., and Dennis Briede, whose mountain meadow is at the base of the Kittatinny Mountains in Blairstown, New Jersey.
Using metal halide and ultraviolet lights to attract moths, they recorded 80 species by 11:15 PM. Blaine emphasizes the importance of moths as indicators of ecological health. Mary highlights the Bird Poop Moth's camouflage and the Rosy Maple Moth's charm, among other remarkable moths, as well as the beauty and significance of nocturnal insects.
Related Stories:
Moth Survey in a Mountain Meadow - Blog Post
Episode 100 Antics of Meadow Wildlife
Antics of Meadow Wildlife - Blog Post
Ep 101. Woodcock Dance-Making a Meadow
Woodcock Dance – Making a Meadow - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and Nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the Remedies for Mile-a-Minute Weed and how an inundation of the invader turned into a garden filled with Native Deer-resistant Butterfly Plants.
Thanks for tuning in.
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy:
Mile-a-Minute Remedies – Native Butterfly Plants - Blog Post
Ep 215. The Tiny Wonder of Duckweed
The Tiny Wonder of Duckweed - Blog Post
Ep.214. Nature Sounds from My Porch Camp
Nature Sounds from My Porch Camp - A blog post featuring Blaine Rothauser's stunning photos.
Merlin Bird ID App
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I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and Nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
After last week's episode, Mary Stone describes the photo of a Green Frog peeking through a patch of Duckweed, the smallest flowering plant. Blaine Rothauser sent it. She shares the wonders of the unusual, tiny aquatic plant, its benefits to wildlife and humans, and its rapid growth. Plus, what to do if it covers your pond.
Thank you for tuning in!
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy:
The Tiny Wonder of Duckweed - Blog Post to come
Ep.214. Nature Sounds from My Porch Camp
Nature Sounds from My Porch Camp- A blog post featuring Blaine Rothauser's stunning photos.
8888
I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and Nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the sights and sounds of an overnight camp on her screen porch, including a Green Frog Chorus, two Great Horned Owls, waving Tulip Trees, and a visiting Great Blue Heron.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy:
Nature Sounds from My Porch Camp- A blog post featuring Blaine Rothauser's stunning photos.
Ep 176. Revisiting Cicadas and How Gardens Glow
Cicadas Sing Back to School -Blog Post
Ep 116. Great Horned Owl meets Hawk
Great-Horned Owl meets Hawk - Blog Post
Ep 61. A Story of Treasured Tuliptrees
Treasured Tuliptrees - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone interviews Carol Decker, a renowned wildlife artist. Carol shares her self-taught art journey, emphasizing thankfulness for her gift and success. Her 80 paintings graced the covers of New Jersey Outdoor magazine, propelling her career. Carol shares a remarkable story of how one of the original paintings came back into her possession. The conversation highlights the importance of living in gratitude and love, embracing the wisdom of nature.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy:
The Gift of Carol Decker’s Wildlife Art - Blog Post
Ep 46. The Gift of Cut Flowers / Joy of Receiving Cut Flowers - Blog Post
Ep 84. Winter Season of Growth / Winter Season of Growth - Blog Post
Ep 200. A Milestone in Our Journey Together
A Milestone in Our Journey Together - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a humorous story about a neighbor's beaver and woodchuck dilemmas, the differences between the two, and their respective remedies. She then addresses the issue of invasive barberry, suggesting alternatives, emphasizing the importance of native plants, and striking a balance with ornamental plants.
Mary wraps up with a reflection on the Fourth of July, encouraging listeners to relish and not take for granted our freedom or the magnificence of nature. And to do our part to propagate peace and harmony in our communities.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcasts and Posts You'll Enjoy:
Alternatives to Invasive Barberry - Blog Post
Ep 142. Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your stories about your garden and nature, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a story based mainly on truth that takes place in two historic estates built by a French architect in Northwest New Jersey, owned by elderly and eccentric weekenders from Princeton. She adds a mystery to the story, themed around the New York Times bestseller, "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben.
Thank you for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts You'll Enjoy:
Ep 88. Insights from the Interdependence of Trees
Insights and Interdependence of Trees - Blog Post
Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
Forest Bathing Helps Loneliness -Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the impact of insects and diseases on native trees, such as the Emerald Ash Borer, Spongy Moths, and Beech Leaf Disease. Mary shares the recommendations of the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, suggesting that underplanting declining beech trees with other native trees is a viable option. She proposes a similar strategy for lawn trees.
Then shares Dennis Briede's story of the Wolfe Tree, a grand White Ash tree on the official New Jersey Big Tree and Heritage Tree Registry, and the labor of love to save it. Mary concludes by encouraging listeners to be kind-- caring for the natural world and each other while embracing the cycles of the garden of life.
Related Posts, Podcasts, and Helpful Links:
Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech / Beloved Beech Trees - Blog Post
Ep 61. A Story of Treasured Tuliptrees / Treasured Tuliptrees
Ep 101. Woodcock Dance- Making a Meadow
Woodcock Dance – Making a Meadow - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life.
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone describes a labyrinth in Frenchy's Field along the Santa Fe River that April Fisher of the Sussex County NJ Native Plant Society shared and tidbits about Prairie Dogs prevalent there.
She then discusses the importance of allowing Daffodil Foliage to fade to ensure future blooms—and stylish ways of tidying daffodil foliage while allowing it to go dormant.
Related Posts, Podcasts, and Helpful Links:
Tidying Daffodil Foliage - Blog Post
Ep 81. Bulbs Extending Blooms & Deterring Squirrels
Bulbs to Extend Spring Blooms - Blog Post
Ep 207. Labyrinths Provide Paths of Healing
Labyrinths Provide Paths of Healing - Blog Post
The Labyrinth Resource Group about Frenchy's Field Labyrinth.
The National Geographic Kids Page about Prarie Dogs
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone answers a question about whether Spongy Moths, formerly called Gypsy Moths, make tents in trees. Not so, though the larvae look similar to Eastern Tent Caterpillars and Fall Webworms. Spongy Moths can completely defoliate and kill trees. Mary shares safe remedies for the creepy crawlies.
Then, she recounts her brother Rick's hilarious experience with Tent Caterpillars and the identification of another culprit in his rose dilemma—a Scarlet and Green Leafhopper!
Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy:
Spongy Moths Vs. Tent Caterpillars – Blog Post
Rose is a Rose Pest Remedies – features my brother Rick's hilarious dilemma
Fall Webworm vs. Tent Caterpillars - Blog Post
Ep 71. Diehard Campers - Tent Caterpillars and Webworms
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares her journey to find a labyrinth at the Johnsonburg Camp and Retreat Center, which recently hosted Comfort Zone Camp, a grief camp for young adults for whom she volunteers. She describes the labyrinth's location and design and the serene experience of walking through it, including up-righting a rustic cross that had toppled.
Mary explains the historical and spiritual significance of labyrinths and their therapeutic benefits. And ways to build a labyrinth and plant ideas to adorn them.
Thanks for tuning in.
Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy:
Ep 179. A Butterfly Garden of Growth
A Butterfly Garden of Growth - Blog Post
Ep 101. Woodcock Dance-Making a Meadow
Woodcock Dance-Making a Meadow - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
After sharing a snap pea dilemma, Mary Stone reviews the significance of soil temperature for sowing vegetable seeds, tools, and DIY techniques to check soil temperature.
She features the benefits of No-Till gardening to improve soil and plant health. Then, she discusses the practice of following nature, called Phenology, and Planting by the Moon.
Mary wraps up with a personal story about planting seeds from a lunar gardening book her mother owned, noting that some seeds sprouted despite their age. And invites listeners to share their Garden of Life stories my emailing AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
Thanks for tuning in.
Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy:
When to Sow Vegetable Seeds Outside
Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
No-Till Gardening and Starting a No-till Garden - Blog Posts
Ep 26. Folklore of Hope - Planting Following Nature
Planting Following Nature and Planting by the Moon - Blog Posts
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone delves into the beauty of water droplets called the Lotus Effect on plants such as Lady's Mantle and Nasturtium, and insects such as butterflies and dragonflies. She reflects on Lady's Mantle's folklore, its benefits in the garden, and how Nasturtiums protect vegetable gardens from pests. Mary encourages listeners to embrace and learn from the cycles of life and nature that bring joy and lighten the heaviness in our world.
Related Podcasts and Posts:
Benefits and Folklore of Dragonflies - Blog Post
Ep 188. Benefits and Folklore of Dragonflies
Reasons to Prune – features the story of my aphid invasion.
Ep 29. Aphid Invasion, Beneficial Ladybugs
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses how and when to divide iris to improve plant health and increase blooms. She also shares the history of her gifted iris and other plants, some of which are not her favorites.
Mary suggests native alternatives to Stella Dora Daylilies and Bearded Iris but accepts gifted ornamental plants if they are not invasive or harmful to the environment and encourages folks to aim to have 80% native plants in their gardens.
She concludes by inspiring listeners to share stories about plants they were given and the special people who shared them by emailing her at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
Related Podcasts and Posts:
Dividing Iris and Multiplying Gifts - Blog Post
Ep 201. Dividing Perennials and Sharing Growth
Dividing and Sharing Perennials - Blog Post
Ep 47. Personal Growth with Houseplants
Personal Growth with Houseplants - Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses how Violets and Pansies bring joy to our gardens and pots in the cool seasons of Spring and Fall. She revisits bits of Vicki Johnson's story, shared in Episode 202, of how pansies grown by her mother, a Swiss giant pansy in particular, inspired her to start gardening.
Mary explains the differences between Pansies and Common Blue Violets from the Viola genus, as well as how and where to plant them. She clarifies the differences between short-lived perennials, biennials, annuals, and perennials.
The episode concludes with her reminiscing about her mother's influence on her gardening journey and encouraging listeners to share their own stories about gardens and nature by emailing her at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
Related Podcasts and Posts:
Ep 202. Pansies Bring Vicki Johnson's Garden Start
Ep 18. Walking & Plalking, Queens & Bachelors
Queen Anne’s Lace Anomaly – Blog Post
Ep 51 Plants for Nooks and Crannies
Favorite Plants Between Steppingstones - Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a heartwarming story from her dear friend Vicki Johnson, a garden writer and photographer, about her gardening start, which grew into a passion and career. It stemmed from her mother's love for gardening, which blossomed in her late-season of life, and the special delivery of pansies. Vicki's story includes the how-to of traditional pansy-growing methods.
Mary concludes by encouraging listeners to share their gardening stories and reflect on the beauty and miracles of nature.
Related Posts and Podcasts:
Ep 54. Sharing Comfort & Dividing Perennials
Sharing Comfort & Perennials - Blog Post
Another story featuring Vicki Johnson
Encouraging Indoor Spring Blooms - Blog Post
Ep 196. Encouraging Indoor Spring Blooms of Hope
Ep 51. Plants for Nooks & Crannies
Favorite Plants between Steppingstones - Blog Post
The Old Farmer's Almanac - How to Grow Pansies: The Complete Pansy Flower Guide
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the beauty of early spring, the sunny faces of daffodils and their significance, and the roots of a family tradition of gathering cuttings from the family plot. Mary describes the benefits and the how-to of dividing perennials in early spring.
She answers a listener's question about daffodil bulbs planted late and creating an instant garden of Easter leftovers. Mary ends by reflecting on personal growth and the importance of community and nature.
Links to Related Posts and Podcasts:
Dividing and Sharing Perennials - Blog Post
Episode 154 Root Pruning and the Journey of Growth
Root Pruning and Journey of Growth – Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone celebrates the 200th episode of the podcast, reflecting on the journey and the lessons gained from nature and gardens and thanking listeners for their help and kind support. She chats about her hopes to expand her reach, perhaps on YouTube, without being attached to outcomes. Like seeds, allow things to grow naturally and accept them for what they become, as we should accept each other in this Garden of Life.
Related Episodes, Posts, and Helpful Links:
A Milestone in Our Journey Together - Blog Post
Wood Frogs Sing for Spring - Blog Post with stunning photos by Blaine Rothauser
Ep 20. Unexpected Furry Messenger, Father John's Memorial Garden
Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
Ep 46. The Gift of Cut Flowers
Ep 31. Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye
Ep 126. A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the delight of Wood Frogs arriving in her pond and singing their mating calls. Previously, Bullfrogs and Spring Peepers were the only frog residences. Mary highlights the role of frogs and toads in pest control and as indicators of environmental health. She recalls her Frog Watch USA training, a simple way listeners can help count species in their neck of the woods to help save our wetlands.
She wraps ups with a personal story about interning her friend Gene Martin's ashes in West Virginia, reflecting on the beauty of the journey and the joy and significance of being present in nature.
Thank you for tuning in.
Related Episodes, Posts, and Helpful Links:
Wood Frogs Sing for Spring - Blog Post with stunning photos by Blaine Rothauser
Ep 131. Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Pools
Ep 30. Attracting Toads, Frog Watch USA
Attracting Toads to Your Garden - Blog Post
NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife PDF about Wood Frogs
and Online Field Guide for Reptiles and Amphibians
Previous Story about my friend Gene Martin
Ep 120. Blessing Moth & Bottle Trees
A Magical Blessing Moth – Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses early spring garden tasks, such as rejuvenating shrubs and removing dead wood. She describes the process of rejuvenating shrubs and the protocols for pruning lavender and concludes with wisdom gained from the rhythms of nature.
Spring is a perfect time to clean our homes, gardens, and gardens of life, including improving our collective outlook, as reflected in Langston Hughes's poem, The Dream Keeper. Thanks for tuning in!
Related Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Companion Blog Posts:
Rejuvenating Shrubs & Garden of Life and Pruning Lavender & Woody Perennials
Ep 26. Folklore of Hope - Planting Following Nature
Ep 173. Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons
Ep 196. Encouraging Indoor Spring Blooms of Hope
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares her design colleague and dear friend Marty Carson’s favorite summer flowering bulbs to plant in spring, adding a few other hardy deer-resistant corms to the list. A discussion on using bone meal while planting bulbs as a squirrel deterrent leads to Koleen’s saga of a typo in a description of corn she ordered from a seed catalog, which turned into a humorous squirrel dilemma.
Mary concludes by sharing her concern for her friend Marty after a recent emergency surgery. Life can change in a moment. Let us cherish every single day and season of our lives.
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Favorite Spring Planted "Bulbs" - Blog Post
Phil’s Squirrel Dilemma
Bulbs to Extend Spring Blooms - Blog Post
Ep 81. Bulbs Extending Blooms & Deterring Squirrels
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the how-tos of encouraging early indoor spring blooms that go beyond her go-to of Forsythia. She shares a story by her friend Vicki Johnson, a garden writer and photographer, who colorfully describes an assortment of Spring Flowering Woody Plants to enjoy. The episode concludes by suggesting we grow hope by spreading kindness and love amidst the feelings of uncertainty in our world.
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Encouraging Indoor Spring Blooms – Blog Post
Ep 53. Shaping Up With Forsythia
Forsythia Hedge at Hospice- Blog Post
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the history and environmental impact of peat mining by Hyper-Humus Inc., learned while attending an outing hosted by the Paulinskill Rivershed Watchers and the Food Shed Alliance in New Jersey.
The Nature Conservancy and New Jersey Fish and Wildlife have received approval to restore the stream's natural sinuosity to improve water quality. Mary encourages using alternatives to peat moss in gardening to support this effort.
Then she reflects on an analogy of restoring the Hyper-Humus section of the Paulinskill Rivershed and personal growth, encouraging listeners to embrace their own "stretch marks" from life's hardships as badges of wisdom gained.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Healing from Hyperr-Humus Peat Mining - Blog Post
Ep18. Walking & Plalking, Queens & Bachelors
Weeding Mugwort – Picking up Litter – Blog Post
Ep 05. NY Botanical Garden, Fall Leaf Confetti
Leaf Mold – Better than Mulch Blog Post
Preservation of the Paulinskill River - Blog Post
Ep 185. Preservation of the Paulinskill - Overcoming Hardships
Link for more about the Paulinskill Watershed River Watchers: https://paulinskillwatershed.org/
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the impact of road salt on plants and the environment, highlighting the damaging effects of chloride ions on dehydrating plants and aquatic life.
Mary reviews beet juice, pickle, and cheese brine alternatives municipalities are testing, along with non-toxic home remedies to use instead of salt. Plus, ways to help by volunteering in your community activities to reduce salt use by sharing examples of how the Paulinskill Watershed River Watchers in northern New Jersey are impacting change.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Salt Impact on Plants and Remedies – Blog Post
Myths, Truths, and Protecting Roots – Blog Post
Ep. 193 Myths, Truths, and Protecting Roots
Preservation of the Paulinskill River - Blog Post
Ep 185. Preservation of the Paulinskill - Overcoming Hardships
Link for more about the Paulinskill Watershed River Watchers: https://paulinskillwatershed.org/
8888
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses Myths and Truths about Roots that extend well beyond the tree and shrub branches. She also explains how to protect roots by not parking on them, which compacts soil and can kill a tree. She reviews the functions of Transport and Feeder Roots and how to safeguard the Root Plate, which stabilizes trees and shrubs.
Mary wraps up by sharing a personal story about generational loneliness and loss, encouraging listeners to reflect on their past and know that their roots, like those in nature, can heal and grow.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Myths, Truths, and Protecting Roots – Blog Post
Insights and Interdependence of Trees – Blog Post
Episode 88. Insights and Interdependence of Trees
Wonders of Willowwood Arboretum – Blog Post
Ep 161. Wonders of Willowwood with Bruce Crawford
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Groundhog Day dates back thousands of years. While the accuracy of predicting winter's end is marginal, it's a fun tradition that celebrates nature. Mary Stone shares the ancient origin, amusing anecdotes, and ways of handling groundhogs while embracing their role in the Garden of Life.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Groundhog Day- Ancient Origin and Accuracy - Blog Post
Groundhog or Woodchuck Dilemma? - Blog Post
Ep10. Beauty in Dreariness, Furry Invaders
Ep 175. Koleen’s Dagnabbit Rabbit Dilemma
Link to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Relishing nature and our gardens goes beyond Spring, Summer, and Fall. Our Garden of Life is Winter, too. Mary Stone shares the beauty and stillness in a walk around the Winter Season of Sights, Sounds, and Silence, encouraging listeners to do the same, comparing it to the silence between notes that enriches a song's melody.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Welcome Winter Sights and Silence – Blog Post
Winter Season of Growth – Blog Post
Ep 84. Winter Season of Growth
Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife -Blog Post
Ep 142. Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares the methods and importance of encouraging self-seeding to help wildlife. And reflects on the joy of seed catalog shopping and creating a vision board for your garden. The episode concludes with a reflection on Martin Luther King Jr Day, honoring his wisdom that "Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend." Let us all do our part by self-seeding love.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Encouraging Self-Seeding - Blog Post
Spring Urges Satisfied by Seed Shopping - Blog Post
Seeds Rooted in Love - Blog Post
Ep 114. We are all Seeds Rooted in Love
Coretta Scott King Forest - Blog Post
Ep 40. The Coretta Scott King Forest
Ep 125. Late-Season Bloomers-Glorious Goldenrod
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone discusses the challenges of caring for African violets in heated homes. She reflects on the emotional significance of the plants inherited from her mother and humorously recalls her rescue dog Jolee's antics, which led to the loss of her mom’s ‘Frozen in Time’ African Violets.
With one violet remaining in poor health, Mary seeks advice from the African Violet Society of America on reviving it.
She shares her morning routine of morning pages and meditation and how recent events, such as the California wildfires, have affected her. Mary then encourages listeners to find joy in memories frozen in time and nature's resilience.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Fixing African Violets with Long Stems - Blog Post
Caring for African Violets – Frozen in Time - Blog Post
Ep 188. Dragonflies - Trust the Perfect Unfolding
Benefits of Watering with Rainwater – Blog Post
Ep 04. Sweet Autumn Clematis, Rainwater Rejuvenation
The video link shared by the African Violet Society of America-
How to Re-pot a Long Neck and Also Cure Root Rot
The Artist's Way: 30th Anniversary Edition By Julia Cameron
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone chats about the benefits and folklore of dragonflies, their fascinating life cycle, hunting savvy, and their role in controlling garden pests. Plus, dragonflies' cultural significance and ancient ancestry that date back 325 million years.
She shares personal anecdotes, including a dragonfly visiting a memorial tree. She emphasizes the importance of letting go of habits or things that no longer serve you or others and embracing new intentions for the year.
Mary encourages listeners to find beauty and love in the world around them, trust nature's timing, and live with gratitude and kindness.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Benefits and Folklore of Dragonflies – Blog Post
Preservation of the Paulinskill River - Blog Post
Ep 185. Preservation of the Paulinskill - Overcoming Hardships
A Forest Pansy Redbud of Hope - Blog Post
Ep 21. Lessons from Spruce, Forest Pansy of Hope
Hospice Butterfly Release - Blog Post
Ep 17. Butterfly Release Celebration, Focus of Faith
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Paperwhites like to party when grown in water, adding alcohol to prevent flopping. The same is true when forcing Amaryllis. Plus, there's a miracle in the unseen.
Both bulbs can only flower once in water. However, Amaryllis bulbs can bloom annually in potting mix, and paperwhites can bloom for about two years; Mary Stone describes how.
Then she shares a Greek Myth about Paperwhites Narcissus then encourages listeners to observe and admire flowers beyond our senses with an analogy about the miracle of how our bodies work, along with plants and wildlife.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:
Paperwhites & Amaryllis like to Party
Sprouting Avocado Seeds in Water – Blog Post
Ep 39. The Magic of Sprouting Avocado Seeds
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on Christmas memories, decorating her holiday garden, including her brother’s and Ellie's Memorial trees, and protecting broadleaf evergreens from dehydration that causes winter burn.
She reminisces about her late dogs Sara and Ellie and shares her Merry Season of Memories continuing traditions with Jolee.
While we long for years gone by, Mary encourages you to go home for Christmas in your most beautiful memories and dreams. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah.
Thanks for tuning in!
Related Posts and Podcasts you’ll enjoy:
Merry Season of Memories - Blog Post
Ep 86. The Revival of an American Holly
Holiday Decorating Reflections - Blog Post
Ep 37. Merry Season of Love Over Fear
Merry Season of Love Over Fear - Blog Post
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a story about preserving the Paulinskill River that came from stumbling upon mysterious tree tubes. She also reflects on overcoming hardships or overlapping losses -- part of her forthcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf.
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Preservation of the Paulinskill River - Blog Post
Ep 80. Halloween History & Sycamore Ghosts
Halloween History & Sycamore Ghosts - Blog Post
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com leaf
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reviews the disadvantages and benefits of praying mantises in gardens, stressing the importance of native versus invasive non-native species. She focuses on the harmful invasive Chinese Mantis that prey on the native Carolina Mantis and hummingbirds.
Mary also shares a faith testimony given 14 years ago, sharing her spiritual journey, struggles, and the healing unconditional love she received from her dogs. She emphasizes self-care, forgiveness, and the interconnection of relationships. Mary closes, encouraging listeners to accept challenges as part of life's plan, leading to remarkable growth.
Thank you for tuning in!
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
An Honorable Harvest – Blog Post
Ep 183. Honorable Harvest - Downsize and Do Over
Ep 48. Gardens Inspire Love - Lessons from Louise Hay
Love Gardening – Love Yourself – Blog Post
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone describes the last of her late-season garden bounty and reflects on the guidelines of an Honorable Harvest, referencing the Native American tradition as outlined by Robin Wall Kimmerer's book Braiding Sweetgrass.
A humorous bounceback about the Birds and Bees of Zucchini leads to Mary Stone's sharing a personal story (Downsize and Do-Over) from her book underway (The Lesson of the Leaf), the impact of addiction on her marriage, and the pivotal moments that imparted change that involved her golden retriever Sara; her faithful four paws.
She reflects on healing and the importance of letting go of shame and embracing forgiveness and thankfulness for the gifts of life, family, friends, and nature's bounty.
Thank you for tuning in!
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
An Honorable Harvest
Lessons from Braiding Sweetgrass – Blog Post
Ep 165. Lessons from Braiding Sweetgrass
Ep 181. Don't Be a Fig Pig - Give a Fig
Birds & Bees of Zucchini Flowers – Blog Post
Ep 02. Field of Clover - The Birds and Bees of Zucchini
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reminisces about the history of Silver Maples, once a Native American treasure, and finding an arrowhead on Sunset Beach in Cape May, New Jersey. And the importance of not taking artifacts as it disrupts the archeological record. As does destroying artifacts of history that teach future generations not to repeat shameful mistakes.
Mary reflects on the wisdom of pushing hands in Tai Chi, advocating for peaceful conflict resolution, empathy towards opposing views, and kinder ways to manage weeds in our garden and garden of life.
Thank you for tuning in!
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Silver Maple, a Native American Treasure - Blog Post
Ep 181. Don't Be a Fig Pig - Give a Fig
Ep 146. Money Tree of Abundance-Happier Houseplants
Ep 169. Safe Alternatives to Harmful Weed Killers
Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares a story about a fig tree in Cape May, NJ, sporting an invitation to help yourself. But a sign saying "Don't be a Fig Pig" reminds her of picking daffodils as a young child and being scolded for it.
Then recounts the saga of overwintering a fig tree given as a rite of passage after marrying that didn't end well. But it wasn't that she didn't give a fig, leading to the memory of humorous banter with her dear mom about the word "shit."
Mary concludes by encouraging listeners to think about their past, the tears, and the laughter, and while some memories of tough times can be hard to revisit, there are good things, sometimes remarkable things, that grow from them.
Thank you for tuning in!
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Don't be a Fig Pig– Blog Post
Ep 180. Overview of The Lesson of the Leaf
Root Pruning and Journey of Growth – Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares an overview of her upcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf: How Nature, Gardens (and Rescue Dogs) Help Heal and Grow Your Life. A journey from loneliness and loss to love and hope, inspired by the wisdom her beloved brother left behind.
She reflects on the significance of the number 180 (Episode 180), linking 1 - 8 to Infinity with the One and the number zero with new beginnings.
There are 81 chapters in the Tao Te Ching, an ancient philosophy to live our true, peaceful nature in the rhythm of nature inspired the structure of The Lesson of the Leaf with 18 chapters and 81 subchapters, each combining a nature and personal story.
Mary invites listeners to participate by sharing suggestions or stories with her via email at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks for tuning in.
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf– Blog Post
Ep 37. Merry Season of Love Over Fear
Ep 20. Unexpected Furry Messenger, Father John's Memorial Garden
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about A Butterfly Garden of Growth at Johnsonburg Camp & Retreat Center in New Jersey, which hosted a Comfort Zone Camp in partnership with A Little Hope Foundation to support kids who lost a loved one to suicide.
We review nectar and host plants important to butterflies and why Butterfly Bush is not ideal. Then, end with a reflection of the Butterfly Effect-- the interconnectedness of our world.
May we all live our lives knowing that we make a difference no matter what season of life we are in.
Thanks for tuning in.
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
Ep.116 - Great Horned Owl meets Hawk
A Butterfly Garden of Growth – Blog Post
Goldenrod's Bad Reputation– Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone discusses the importance of native plants, mentioning Blaine Rothauser's work and including native plants in a previous project.
Then, we chat about the beauty yet invasiveness of Japanese Knotweed and the beneficial native Orange Jewelweed. And hope that plants from other countries become integrated into our environment as the balance of nature adapts.
A reflection on the anniversary of 9 -11 and recounting a story about Cheryl Woodruff Brooks, author of Chicken Bone Beach, leads to Hope for the day we look upon each other as one with nature and the world.
We wrap up with a history of Comfort Zone Camp, a grief camp for kids that grew after 9-11, and encouraging listeners to make a difference by volunteering to plant native plants and take better care of our land and each other. To Remember, Learn, Grow, and Love.
Thanks for tuning in!
Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts:
September Roadside Beauties – Blog Post
Remember - Learn - Grow and Love – Blog Post
Ep 118. Bottlebrush Buckeyes Hide Tree Knees
Other episodes featuring Blaine Rothauser:
Ep 101. Woodcock Dance-Making a Meadow
Ep 123. Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone chats about the nighttime chorus of garden insects from her screened porch, highlighting the Agile Meadow Katydid, Fall Field Cricket, and Snowy Tree Cricket.
Then shares a personal story about her niece and the healing power of nature, emphasizing the life-changing outcomes of learning to love and let go. Thanks for tuning in.
Related Stories:Nighttime Chorus of Garden Insects– Blog Post
Cicadas sing 'Back to School' – Blog Post
Ep 176. Revisiting Cicadas and How Gardens Glow
Ep 129. Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
Ep 30. Attracting Toads, Frog Watch
Helpful Links:
SongsofInsects.com Agile Meadow Katydid (Orchelimum agile)
Spring and Fall Field Cricket (Gryllus pennsylvanicus)
Snowy Tree Cricket (Oecanthus fultoni)
Biokids link to Common Meadow Katydid (Orchelimum vulgare)
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone reflects on her recent trip to California and the joy of reconnecting with a lifelong friend. She discusses listener responses to previous episodes, including Lorraine's recent solution for her Bowing Blossoms of Limelight Hydrangeas.
She reminisces about a cicada encounter during a project at Morristown Airport, explaining the difference between annual and periodical cicadas and gardening tips for late summer. Then shares Marty Carson's luminous garden design idea for Morristown Airport and how selections of White Flowers (and foliage) in Gardens Glow.
Mary concludes by emphasizing the importance of learning and growth over perfection.
Thank you for tuning in!
Related Stories:
Cicadas sing 'Back to School'
White Flowers in Gardens Glow
Link to the post with an update on Lorraine's latest idea for Fixing Flopping Limelight Hydrangeas
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
You may remember the treat of learning about John Cabot Roses through my writer friend Koleen Garland, who lives in Canada. In this episode, Koleen reads a saga about her Dagnabbit Rabbit Dilemma, sure to delight. And with it comes acceptance.
Thank you for tuning in.
Related Stories:
Koleen’s Dagnabbit Rabbit Dilemma - blog post
Irresistible John Cabot Rose - blog post
Ep 162. The Irresistible John Cabot Rose
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Link to the Companion Post:Flopping Limelight Hydrangea
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about replacing invasive plants like Burning Bush with Native Plants, highlighting the beauty and versatility of Oak Leaf Hydrangeas for All Seasons. We review beautiful garden companions for Oak Leaf Hydrangea, varieties you'll love, and other native plants that are perfect replacements for Burning Bush.
We wrap up with the hilarious story of gardeners that pilfered Oakleaf Hydrangea from the woods, NOT suggested (smile).
Thank you for tuning in.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons - Blog Post
Episode 142. Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
When to Prune Hydrangea, Deer – Blog Post
Ep 172. When to Prune Hydrangea, Deer!
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Link to the Companion Story: https://askmarystone.com/when-to-prune-hydrangea-deer/
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
The Secret Life of Pinecones – Blog Post
Ep 92. The Secret Life of Pinecones
Bachelor Buttons vs. Chicory Look-alikes - Blog Post
Ep 119. Bachelor Buttons vs. Chicory Look-alike
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
We start the episode revisiting the creation myths of Native Americans naming North America as "Turtle Island." Turtles are welcome guests in the garden; Box turtles eat up to 10,000 slugs a season and other pests, including grubs.
We wrap up by sharing Natural Slug Remedies beyond inviting a turtle into your garden. Some will surely bring a chuckle. I hope you enjoy the story.
Thanks so much for tuning in.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Revisiting Turtle Island
Natural Slug Remedies
Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits – Blog Post
Ep 129. Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we start with an update on the Song Sparrow meets Robin, thanks to Blaine Rothauser, an expert on all things in nature, leading to Lessons from Braiding Sweetgrass.
Sweetgrass, Hierochloe (meaning "holy grass") odorata (meaning "fragrant"), is a grass native to North America and is included in Native American rituals and healing. In the exquisite book Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, sweetgrass is a metaphor for respecting and having gratitude for our Earth and the interconnection of all living things.
Thanks so much for tuning in.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:Lessons from Braiding Sweetgrass – Blog Post
Episode 123, Keeping Lighting Pollinator Friendly – with Blaine Rothauser
Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly – Blog Post
Cornell Labs All About Birds
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
When the light begins to break, songbirds sing their happy calls of gratitude that Morning has Broken, reminding us of the lyrics to the song Cat Stevens made famous.
American Robins are among the first birds to lay eggs in the spring and, therefore, are considered a symbol of renewal and new beginnings. In this episode I share how the sadness of baby robins that didn't survive turned into a happy story of a successful Song Sparrow nest passing the nesting spot off to the Robin Family.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Song Sparrow meets Robin – Link to Come
Ep16. One World, Robins of Renewal
One World / Memorial Day – Blog Post
Doublefile Viburnum Angels – Blog Post
Robins of Renewal in the Garden – Blog Post
Cat Stevens' - Morning has Broken lyrics
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Rose Remedies
Aphids on Roses
Japanese Beetle Time
The Irresistible John Cabot Rose
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
I look forward to sharing a few glorious Wonders of Willowwood Arboretum in Chester Township NJ as shared by Bruce Crawford, Manager of Horticulture of Morris County Park Commission. I especially adore the wisdom gained from the beauty of the old and declining trees. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories :
Wandering Willowwood Arboretum — blog post
Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
No Mow May Helps Pollinators – Blog Post
Ep 103. No Mow May & Marvelous Moss
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Today's topic hits close to home. Sandy's pine bark nuggets were filled with huge black ants and termites. The close-to-home part is that I was tackling carpenter ants that nested in the screened porch, so Sandy's dilemma was my dilemma, too.
In this episode, we share a comical saga about determining the difference between carpenter ants and termites and safe ways to remedy the dilemma.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related StoriesCarpenter Ants and Termites in Mulch– Blog Post
Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies -Blog Post
Ep 121. Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mushrooms are the fruit of valuable spores that decay organic material and recycle nutrients into the soil, which is good for plants. However, in volumes, they're unsightly in the garden.
In this episode, we review the icky fungi that can develop in mulch (you may wish to put down your sandwich while tuning in — Ha!) And, we discuss how to prevent and fix the plethora of Funky Fungi in Mulch.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories
Plethora of Fungi in Mulch – Blog Post
Leaf Mold – Better than Mulch– Blog Post
Ep 05. NY Botanical Garden, Fall Leaf Confetti
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
This episode discusses Companion Plants for your Vegetable Garden to control pests, encourage beneficial insects and pollinators, and increase yields. We share an overview of Three Sisters Gardening, the origin of companion plantings from Native Americans.
We wrap up with a reflection on when the podcast logo switched from Miss Ellie to now Jolee and how life changes like the seasons and endings bring new beginnings.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories
Making Friends with Companion Plants – Blog Post
Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
Three Sisters Gardening & Jolee’s Emergency – Blog Post
Ep16. One World, Robins of Renewal
One World / Memorial Day and Robins of Renewal in the Garden – Blog Posts
Ep 01. About Marigolds, About Mary Stone
The Legend of Marigolds – Blog Post
Helpful Links:
The Old Farmer’s Almanac link to Planting, Growing, and Caring for Nasturtium Flowers
And Companion Planting Guide for Vegetables.
Better Homes & Gardens article on How to Plant and Grow Sweet Alyssum
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Have you ever considered plantain, the flat-leaved weed that invades your lawn, a beneficial plant? It is, as are my favorite dandelions.
In this episode, we chat about the benefits of both and I share Koleen Garland's hilarious childhood memory of making dandelion wine sure to entertain. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Benefits of Plantain & Dandelion "Weeds" – Blog Post
Great-Horned Owl meets Hawk -Blog Post
Ep.116 - Great Horned Owl meets Hawk
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Thomas Jefferson's birthdate recalls visiting Monticello, considered a Lab for Plants. We chat about the fascinating history of the plantation and Jefferson's Garden Book, which is filled with trials and tribulations. One is his remarkable Castor Bean Plants.
We chat about Castor Bean Plants overcoming the concern of toxicity in the garden and how I used them to "Hide Uglies."
The episode wraps up with a reflection on Thomas Jefferson's self-written epitaph, which suggests a sense of self-awareness and perhaps shame for offenses and imperfections. May we learn from history rather than erase or ignore it so that we continue to become better than we used to be.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Jefferson's Monticello Lab for Plants – Blog Post
Castor Bean Plants Hide Uglies – Blog Post
Episode 29 Aphid Invasion - Beneficial Ladybugs
Beneficial Ladybugs – Blog Post
Reasons to Prune – Blog Post
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
The episode starts with a fun little ditty about Bumbershoots (umbrellas) and a chat about Spacing Plants to avoid having to prune them. Plus, the reasons to prune are similar to those for caring for ourselves and our families.
We discuss Smokebush, with its splendid features (and cautions), and other shrubs you can rejuvenate-prune in spring.
Then wrap up with inspiration on revitalizing and restoring ourselves. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Reasons to Prune – Blog Post
Rejuvenation Pruning & Smokebush – Blog Post
Ep 106. Rejuvenation Pruning Lifts Hearts, including mine, as I joined a lifelong friend and her grown sons to rejuvenate overgrown shrubs and renew their gardens.
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
I look forward to sharing a sequel to Early Spring Transplants with a story about Root Pruning that relates to our lives. But before that, I share a personal journey of recovery and growth.
Then we chat about the how-too's of Root Pruning and the benefits. And wrap up with encouragement to assess our roots and perhaps make room for new feeder roots in our lives. I hope you enjoy the story
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Root Pruning– Blog Post
A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness– Blog Post
Ep 126. A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness
Forest Bathing – Blog Post
Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Early spring is an ideal time to transplant most woody plants. In this episode, we feature large cherry trees a farmer transplanted five years ago and the outcomes with updates that hopefully inspire others to treat animals with respect and kindness.
We wrap up with hilarious early Spring Garden Honey-dos. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Early Spring Transplants – Blog Post
Spring Garden Honey-dos – Blog Post
Here's a link to Penn State's Extension office article with a nifty chart on suggested root ball sizes by plant type.
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Being kind and relocating honeybees in an old olive tree right outside Linda's front door comes with twists and turns but a happy ending.
We chat about how to relocate honeybees and tips on how you can help protect our pollinators. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Relocating Honeybees – Being Kind - Blog Post
Link to Beekeeping Associations In North America
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we tour the makings of an Alpine Garden atop massive boulders in Sparta, NJ. You'll enjoy the lineup of highly deer-resistant perennials, creating movement cascading down the boulders.
We wrap up with a lineup of spring flowering bulbs, one with a skunk smell, leading to a lesson of acceptance of Canada Geese, not Canadian Geese as many call them.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:Planning an Alpine Garden
Deer-Resistant Spring Blooming Bulbs
Winter Flowers and Folklore – blog post
Ep 98. Winter Flowers and Folklore
Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks – blog post
Ep 97. Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks
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I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we learn about the fascinating history of St. Patrick and the Legend of Clover, also called Shamrocks, featured on St. Patrick’s Day. We wrap up with a story of the good luck lady, a kind gal who finds four-leaf clovers to share with others. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
St. Patrick and the Legend of Clover- Blog Post
March Folklore of Hope – Blog Post
Ep 26. Folklore of Hope - Planting Following Nature
Clover Lawn Alternative – Blog Post
Ep 02. Field of Clover - The Birds and Bees of Zucchini
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we talk about Straw Bale Gardening, used by Kearny Community Garden; an inexpensive way to grow vegetables in raised beds without tilling and weeding.
We review other raised bed techniques. And the pros and cons of Community Gardens, how rules of conduct are sometimes broken, ending with a reflection on living by our "heart rules."
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community
Vegetable Gardening Basics
Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening (No-till Gardening – Blog Post)
North Country Organics Cheep Cheep 4-3-3
Book on Straw Bale Gardens by Joel Karsten
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we discuss the fascinating Anatomy and Array of Beautiful Bark, noting a selection of trees inspired by a talk given by Bruce Crawford, the Manager of Horticulture of the Morris County Park Commission (NJ).
We wrap up with an analogy of our skin, which developed just as the bark of trees based on our areas of origin. And how metaphorically, we grow thicker skin with life challenges. But we can exfoliate by forgiving and begin to flourish.
I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Anatomy & Array of Beautiful Bark
Episode 45 Beloved Mr. Beech (Link to Blog Post Beloved Beech Trees)
Episode 132 Shagbark Hickories – Nutty Mast Years – (Link to Blog Post)
The story of my Unexpected Furry Messenger Episode 20 - (Link to Blog Post)
Morris County Park Commission
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Do you recall Valentine's Day traditions as a kid having to bring cards to school? It was an assignment that felt awkward. As adults, we give roses; each color has a special meaning.
In this episode we also chat about an update on brother Rick's AC-Pallet Garden featured in Ep 145. Special Sedum and Succulent Gardens. I hope you enjoy the story.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Meaning of Roses and Valentine Traditions
Beauty and Beast of Roses
Ep 72. Beauty and Beast of Roses
Joy of Receiving Cut Flowers
Ep 46. The Gift of Cut Flowers
Link to story about Rick’s Pallet Garden & AC Screen with the updated Composite Deck Version.
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Seeing Ruth and Jim's Money Tree reminds me of a Money Tree I met long ago, along with its Plant Parent, which turned out to be life-changing.
Then we chat about houseplants in duress due to drying heat and tired soil and how to make them happier. Some plants like to be tight in their pots, much like tight-fitting jeans.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
A Money Tree brings Abundance
Houseplants in Duress Turn Happy
Benefits of Watering with Rainwater
Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice
Ep 04.Sweet Autumn Clematis, Rainwater Rejuvenation
Ep 39. The Magic of Sprouting Avocado Seeds
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
After the last episode, Festive Partridge Berry – Terrarium Basics, Jamie asked if the sedums used in the terrarium are succulents, reminding me of a special sedum and succulent garden.
Plus, a family story about a pallet garden featuring sedums and other things not so ideal is sure to bring a chuckle.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:Sedum & Succulent Garden
Pallet Garden & AC Screen
Ep 144. Partridge Berry – Terrarium Basics
Penn State Extension article - Be Safe Around Wooden Pallets!
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Seeking beauty amongst the muddy dreariness, I came upon Festive Partridge Berry amid a tapestry of moss, making me feel like a troll in a miniature forest lurking amongst a carpet of fur.
The charming trailing plant decorates terrariums, leading to a story of an event at A & J Messina Greenhouses in Blairstown, NJ, where guests enjoyed building a Terrarium - a Mini Gardening Warmup.
Related Stories and Helpful Links:
Partridge Berry
Terrariums- a Mini-gardening Warmup
Enjoy Elisavet's Poem under Comments on Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
History of Troll Dolls per The Troll Hole Museum
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares the treasures encountered during her overdue fall cleanup in early winter, including dozens of Bottlebrush Buckeye seeds. We learn how to plant them and the benefits of the native beauty.
Then, we end with reflections on early Winter Treasures in Nature and ideas of clearing spaces at home by giving a few treasures to those we cherish.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Sowing the Treasures of Buckeye Seeds
Bottlebrush Buckeye Hide Tree Knees featured in Ep 118
The Magic of Sprouting Avocado Seeds - featured in Ep 39
We're All Just Seeds featured in Ep11. The Promise of Seeds
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, I share the story of a garden design client, Jacquie of Byram, NJ, and how we shared life stories that often happen in the garden and amongst nature.
We chat about Beautyberry, her newest favorite plant. Then there's the Winter Beauty of Winterberry, which wildlife also loves.
We wrap up with the Legend of Winterberry and what makes some berries good and some berries bad.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
She’s a Beautyberry
Winter Beauty of Winterberry
Ep 86. The Revival of an American Holly - featuring Ellie’s memorial tree
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
While opening a gifted box of green pencils, I noticed they were limited editon Gardening Pencils by Blackwing, leading to learning about the Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life.
The episode includes inspirational gardening quotes and an invitation to share your favorite nature or garden quotes.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life
Benefits of Gardening
Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water - Ep 89. Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water
About Blackwing Pencils and their story referenced.
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we reflect on the reason for the holiday season and have fun sharing the hilarity of the mad rush -- much like the rush of wrapping up the gardening season with a few late-season tips. Then comes the Long Winter's Nap from gardening we enjoy. We wrap up by contemplating the Gift of Contentment.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
A Long Winter's Nap
Father John's Animal House Garden
Overwintering Potted Perennials
Ep 20. Unexpected Furry Messenger, Father John's Memorial Garden
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, I share the Legend of Holly and Christmas Trees. Then we chat about The Twelve Days of Christmas ending on January 6th,-- So keep your tree standing until after Little Christmas, and there are ways it repurpose it to extend the Joy.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Legend of Holly & Christmas Trees
Ellie’s Living Christmas Tree
Repurposing Christmas Trees
Ep 23. Season of Love, All About Poinsettias
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
The defense mechanisms of Honey Locust trees are similar to porcupines. We chat about fascinating trees, their benefits, and thornless varieties.
Plus how the docile porcupine can be a nuisance in the garden, and ways to move them along.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Honey Locust – the Porcupine of Trees
Three Sisters Gardening & Jolee’s Emergency
Also featured in Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening
More Tips on How to Get Rid of Porcupines
USDA Honey Locust Plant Fact Sheet
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram#MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about garden ghosts, which I rarely have anymore—leading to how to overwinter garden pots, especially those filled with perennials and woody plants.
Then, I share the story of Filling Naked Pots late in the season and the glorious assortment of shade-loving deer-resistant plants that decorate my adored Mother Earth Face Pot.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Overwintering Potted Perennials
Filling Late-Season Naked Pots
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Overwintering Potted Perennials
Filling Late-Season Naked Pots
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Giving Thanks for the Gifts of Nature and our Gardens as we delve into the holiday season teaches us not to rush things. We reflect on the beauty of the dormant landscape and treasures you can gather for winter decorating while leaving plenty for our feathered friends and other wildlife.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Giving Thanks for Nature's Gifts
Winter Decorating with Roadside Finds
Ep 08. Late Fall To-Dos, Holiday Decorating with "Roadkill"
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
It was confusing the day before Veterans Day this year; folks were off, and schools closed. It's usually observed on the actual day of November 11th. And there's a reason for that - a significance to 11-11-11. And why poppies are on the lapels on Veterans Day and in our gardens.
We chat about the rich history of Veterans Day and the Significance of Poppies on lapels and in our gardens. And wrap up with the wisdom of the lyrics from Turn Off The News (Build A Garden). a song by Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Significance of Veterans Day Poppies
Mystery of Mutating Alberta Spruce
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone.
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
What a surprise to stumble upon Avis Campbell Gardens in Montclair, NJ. Enjoy a "tour" themed around the Wheel of Life and bits about Avis Campbell's legacy.
Then we admire a grand Kousa Dogwood, leading to a discussion of Delightful Dogwoods, though there are many Dogwood Disease Dilemmas. We chat about hybrids and cultivars that resist disease and end with how we can make a difference in the Wheel of Life.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Avis Campbell Gardens Wheel of Life
Doggone Dogwood Disease
Gardens Glow
Ep 03. Cicadas Back to School, Gardens Glow
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Before the first Fall frost, you can harvest green tomatoes and ripen them indoors, a lesson from Ed, who gave me Hand-me-Down Tomatoes.
We talk about how to ripen tomatoes to avoid critter carnage and improve their appearance by preventing shoulder cracks. And a quick way to freeze your over-abundance of tomatoes.
Then, we wrap up with a funny scene of Ed's beloved lab feasting on Kousa Dogwood berries.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
Ripening Fall Tomato Hand-me-Downs
Avoid Tomato Carnage-Ripen Indoors!
Chipmunk Remedies & Legends
Ep 66. Chipmunk Remedies and Legends
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
It's a nutty time! When nuts are abundant, it's called a Mast Year. In this episode, we chat about what triggers Mast Years, somewhat mysterious, and Shagbark Hickory's three-year cycle of nuts.
Shagbark Hickory are not often landscape trees-- what's beautiful to some is messy to others. But wildlife loves them. Find out why you may, too.
We wrap up with the wisdom that we are one with nature and how significant our role can be in helping each other, helping nature, and being kind.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
· Shagbark Hickory and Mast Years
· Why Critters Cross the Road
· Fruits and Veggies near Black Walnut
· Ep 32. Juglone Companions, Fascinating Fasciation
· Ep 07. Swarming Blackbirds, Winter Folklore, Thankfulness
· Swarming Common Grackles
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Enjoy a walk in the woods of Lodestar Park, Fredon, NJ, answering the question about the difference between Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Ponds. And how even pond-less waterfalls can benefit wildlife and soothe the soul.
We wrap up the episode with how serving others can happen in our gardens and yards by creating a healthful environment for our precious wildlife. Plus, do whatever you do with love and kindness as you go about your daily life because kindness grows.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links:
· Inconsistency over Pond vs. Lake
· Safe Havens of Vernal Ponds
· Ep 07. Swarming Blackbirds, Winter Folklore, Thankfulness
· Swarming Common Grackles
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
This episode is a continuum of the last. We chat about a beloved Pet Painted Turtle and her lovable owner at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice, who lifted our hearts.
Then we talk about the Beech Leaf Disease dilemma and its cause and touch on remedies, not the least of which is Holding onto Hope with an analogy of how Fall leaves live forever.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links
Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease
Beloved Beech Trees
Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech
Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
Ep 129. Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
Rhode Island University's Beech Leaf Disease 2023 Update
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone reflects on saving a baby snapping turtle she came upon soon after her brother Bill passed away, another a year ago, and helping a momma snapping turtle cross the road with kind passersby.
We chat about turtles that are welcome garden guests and how to attract them into your garden. Then, wrap up with how serving others, including Mother Nature, lifts our spirits.
Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links
Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
Winter Season of Growth column and companion podcast episode:
Ep 84. Winter Season of Growth
Turtle Islandcolumn and companion podcast episode:
Ep19. Turtle Island, Ugly Slug Remedies
More about Common Snapping Turtle (from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection)
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A Women and Their Woods retreat hosted by the Ridge and Valley Conservancy in Newton, NJ, helped landowners caring for their woods –filled with tips on native plants to help heal our land. And how our relationship with trees and nature can be symbiotic – mutually beneficial rather than parasitic.
The episode features highlights from Sharon Wander's presentation about Pollinator Friendly Properties. Plus, artist Rita Baragona's Breathwork and Symbiosis helps us connect with trees and nature. And how to doodle or journal the beauty of the world around us.
"What is your connection to the woods, a tree, a leaf, yourself?"
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Woman & Their Woods with Native Plants
Ridge and Valley Conservancy – Preserving Natural Lands, Educating the Public
About Rita Baragona
Milkweed Bugs at Merril Creek
Bottlebrush Buckey Hide Tree Knees
Woodcock Dance & Making a Meadow
Gift of Meadows and Mountain Mint
PBS's article on What is Symbiosis?
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
While meandering the rocky terrain peppered with hemlock and Spruce, my friend Barbara asked why some trees remain evergreen and others don't. Good question. Let's ask the trees.
Towards the end of the episode, you'll enjoy the story of Jolee coming upon a baby squirrel.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Why Some Trees Remain Evergreen
Fall Needle Drop of Renewal column and companion Ep 79. Fall Needle Drop of Renewal
Why Leaves Change Color 101
Phil's Squirrel Dilemma is featured in Ep 81. Bulbs Extending Blooms & Deterring Squirrels
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
For special occasions, many come to Liberty Farm's Sussex County Sunflower Maze in Sandyston, NJ. What a treat for those benefiting from the Mental Health Association's services to roam the smiling faces of acres of sunflowers bringing us happiness.
Sunflowers represent sunshine, and giving them conveys friendship, good luck, admiration, love, and friendship. Thank you, Raj Sinha and your family, for giving us all that sunshine.
I think of them as smiley faces. May we all have more smiling faces to share.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness
Other Late-Season Bloomers
Liberty Farm's Sussex County Sunflower Maze – Facebook Page
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Moths are like butterflies that party at night. Though most are considered ugly, like butterflies, moths are beautiful too and essential! We also chat about what moths and bats have in common sure to bring a smile.
Links to a related stories:
Moths are Beautiful Too
Magical Blessing Moth
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential story featuring Randi Eckel of Toadshade Wildflower Farm.
Cicadas Sing Back to School
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
A kind reader's concern about how artificial light impacts pollinators leads to a discussion with Blaine Rothauser, Senior Ecologist and Threatened and Endangered Species Specialist for GZA, who advises how to Keep Lighting Pollinator Friendly.
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Top-Heavy Aloe Dilemma
Benefits of Watering with Rainwater
More about Alice Peck
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we meet my favorite understory shrub, Bottlebrush Buckeyes, and how I planted them to hide the Gnarly Tree Knees of Blue Spruce as they began dying from the bottom up from Canker Disease.
We chat about recent flooding, downed Ash trees killed by emerald ash borers, and the declaration of mainstream media gloom and dooming the changes in climate.
Nature is constantly changing. Nothing remains forever. But from endings come beginnings and renewal, encouraging listeners not to give up hope. Instead, be part of the change of kindness to our dear earth to help heal it. Nature is resilient.
Related Stories and Helpful LinksBottlebrush Buckeys Hide Tree Knees – Link to Come
Spruce Disease Dilemmas
Lawn to Woodland Shrubs
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
We start the episode with a fascinating follow-up of last week's (Ep 116) Owl and Hawk story – witnessing a rat snake snagged by a hawk.
Leeding to the wisdom of not tampering with nature despite the biggest garden dilemma - Darn Deer. We chat about safe deer deterrents to spare your gardens and why feeding deer is detrimental.
And wrap up with Eastern Rat Snakes' remarkable hunting and predator avoidance techniques.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Feeding Deer Promotes Disease
Link to last week's story Great-Horned Owl meets Hawk
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report of Occurrence of Chronic Wasting Disease.
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Remember the seed-spitting contests on the Fourth of July? It's hard to do nowadays as most watermelons are said to be seedless, but the truth is, it's not so.
In this episode, we discuss how Seedless Watermelon came to be and why they compare to mules. Plus, we learn why they are not genetically modified (non-GMO) and can be organic. And the health benefits of the pink fleshy fruit.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Are Seedless Watermelons GMO?
Independence Day on the Top of the World
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
There's a country song sung by Kathy Mattea that I adore. The name is Seeds, and the chorus speaks volumes starting with: We're all just seeds in God's hands. We start the same, but where we land is sometimes fertile soil and sometimes sand.
We all carry seeds of opportunity to help our dear Earth and our communities and serve others. As we become aware of it, the roots of our spirits grow. And as we shine our light within, the seeds flourish and bloom, becoming a beautiful garden that others will admire, inspiring them to see the magnificent seeds within them.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Ep11. The Promise of Seeds
We're All Just Seeds
The Magic of Seeds
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Green beans aren't only green anymore. And tomatoes come in all sorts of shades and mottled blends of colors. Are funky vegetables genetically modified? Indeed, there's much confusion over genetically modified versus heirloom versus hybrids. Then there are organic seeds and vegetables to consider. In this episode, we discuss the differences, the Safe Seed Pledge, and how we can pressure the big businesses to let them know that we care about our food.
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
After last week's chat about Fawn's Cry and Perennial Pilfering (Ep 111) and letting wildlife be, I thought you'd enjoy a story about running into Seal Pup Surprise at Island Beach State Park, NJ.
We wrap up with an announcement of Growing Forward – how I finally submitted a book proposal for The Lesson of the Leaf to Hay House Publishing. I hope the story will inspire you to push through self-doubt too. Thank you, kind listeners, for all of your encouragement and support.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
A Seal Pup Surprise
Video to Hay House Publishing to introduce The Lesson of Leaf
Let Fawns & Wildlife Be
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
While hearing a fawn's cry can cause concern, only when wildlife is injured, or a deceased mother is nearby should we assist by contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
The story celebrates the generous spirit of Kelly Simonetti, founder of Antler Ridge, a revered Wildlife Sanctuary in Frelinghuysen, New Jersey, which sadly closed, unable to keep up after the passing of Kelly in November 2022.
We wrap up with an addendum to the fawn's story about pilfering perennials (with permission) in the family plot.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Let Fawns & Wildlife Be
The Gifts of Nature
"Leaf Therapy" fills the emptiness
Antler Ridge Wildlife Sanctuary's YouTube Channel
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
We start the episode reflecting on invasive anger between neighbors and the analogy of the territorial behavior of the North American Robin crashing into windows, fighting their reflection out of fear. And ways to resolve it.
Then chat about the Asian species of Wisteria, invasive in the US, and a native alternative, plus ways to encourage blooming and manage their size.
Then we wrap up with a reflection on what makes plants invasive, which relates to choosing love over fear leading to growing a peaceful garden of life.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Wisteria Reflections on Invasiveness
Managing Wisteria
Fine Gardening Magazine's Story - How to Train Wisteria - Turn your vine into a tree using these pruning and staking techniques
Previous stories we make mention of in the episode:
Mending Fence with Forsythia
Merry Season of Love over Fear
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
While it grows rampant in the wild, Virginia Creeper is native, therefore not considered invasive, and is valued as an ornamental plant. And, like its look-alike Poison Ivy, Virginia Creeper is loved by wildlife.
In this episode, I share my big sister's "I dare you" challenge as a child and a fun review of how to tell the difference between Virginia Creeper and Poison Ivy.
We wrap up with a sad sequel to Mending Fences with Forysthia (Ep 96), hoping to turn a neighbor's invasive anger around.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Value of Virginia Creeper vs. Poison Ivy
Removing Poison Ivy without Chemicals
Previous stories we make mention of in the episode:
One World / Memorial Day and Robins of Renewal in the Garden
Mending Fences with Forsythia
Mile-a-Minute Weed Remedies
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, I share a story of an inundation of Mile-a-Minute Weed in Sarah's garden that turns into a garden filled with Deer Resistant Butterfly Plants.
We chat about safe ways to get rid of Mile-a-Minute Weeds and a delicious lineup of host and nectar plants to attract butterflies that you'll adore too.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Mile-a-Minute Weed Remedies
Deer Resistant Butterfly Plants
Treasured Tuliptrees
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential
For more information about the weevil to remediate Mile-a-Minute Weed: https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/pdf/mileaminute.pdf
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Rejuvenation Pruning Lifts Hearts, including mine, as I joined a lifelong friend and her grown sons to rejuvenate overgrown shrubs and renew their gardens.
We discuss how early spring is an ideal time to rejuvenate and prune Andromeda, Rhododendrons, Butterfly Bush, Spirea, and Cinquefoil. And, of course, how to.
And wrap up with a heartfelt story about how Michele's husband loved working with his boys. He passed away two years ago. No doubt, he looks down from above with pride and love.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Rejuvenation Pruning Lifts Hearts
Reasons to Prune – features the story of my viburnum riddled with aphids.
Beneficial Ladybugs
How to Rejuvenate Prune Rhododendron
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about how we sometimes feel off-kilter. While we relish the glory and wisdom of nature and our gardens, we waver, getting lost and overwhelmed by busyness and stress. By living in nature's cadence, we find peace and joy.
The story leads to Carpenter Bees, essential pollinators that can wreak havoc. We share kind ways to deter them from doing damage and how a lone carpenter bee teaches a shift from– so much to do– so little time to so many joyous things to do in spring, with plenty of time to play.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Giving Thanks
Carpenter Bees are Essential Pollinators
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we embrace Spring Unfolding. We share sights and sounds while on an early spring walk with Jolee. The patterns are so familiar from year to year.
See yourself in all that you encounter— people, plants, even those we call pests. We are all one. And happiness is part of the oneness you're here to enjoy.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Spring Unfolding is Happiness
No Mow May
Braiding Sweetgrass By Robin Wall Kimmerer
Beneficial Ladybugs versus Asian Lady Beetle
Japanese Stilt Grass & Thistle Remedies
Spotted Lanternfly Update (2020)
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about No Mow May is growing momentum. Forgoing cutting your lawn helps early pollinators, plus other benefits.
Then there's the misnomer that lime kills moss in lawns. (But why would you want to?) Bringing to mind the to lime or not to lime- we answer the question.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
No Mow May helps Pollinators
Lime or Not to Lime Lawns
Clover Lawn Alternative
Plants for Nooks and Crannies
Penn State Extension Office- Neighborly Natural Landscaping in Residential Areas
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I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, we chat about what makes a Successional Forest – a natural process of recovery of land impacted by a fire, logging, or farming returning to an ecologically balanced state through a succession of stages over time - given no other manufactured or natural setbacks. And describe the succession of trees at Lodestar Park in Fredon, NJ, once a farm field.
I share a bit about how Comfort Zone Camp, a grief camp for kids and young adults, helps heal and grow their lives. And wrap up with a Game of Life Day at Sussex County Technical School, helping to grow our new generation of young adults.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
A Successional Forest of Growth
Flora and Reflections from Blue Mountain Lake
Sharing Comfort & Perennials
Patti Doell, Little Big Farm, explains No-till Gardening
Three Sisters Gardening & Jolee's Emergency
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Last week's Antics of Meadow Wildlife (Ep 100) leads to preparing and planting a meadow, often called a wildflower garden or prairie. Dennis Briede shares how the Land Conservancy is converting a field inundated with Mugwort into a Meadow.
My interview with Dennis leads to a fantastic surprise – the mating dance of the American Woodcock. You'll enjoy the interview and the sounds of this charming robin-sized bird.
Related Stories and Helpful Links
Woodcock Dance – Making a Meadow
Antics of Meadow Wildlife
The Cornell Lab All About Birds – American Woodcock Overview
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
We celebrate the 100th Episode with my birder buddy Dennis Briede's meadow in Blairstown, NJ, leading to learning about how meadows wish to be forests and the antics of meadow wildlife you'll enjoy.
Thank you, kind listeners and fellow lovers of all things green, for joining me each week and being part of our community, helping to nurture nature and our garden of life.
Related Stories
Antics of Meadow Wildlife
Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint
Beyond Nutty Mast Year – how Mother Nature manages wildlife populations.
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential.
Moths are Beautiful Too, and crucial pollinators!
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about.
Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Direct Link to Podcast Page
Witch Hazel brightens a winter or late-fall landscape. It's the native Common or North American Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) that makes the popular astringent. And it serves as a tool for Water-Witching to detect underground water.
In this episode, we chat about popular Witch Hazel hybrids and the mysterious nature of pollinating and seed dispersal.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Wonders of Witch Hazel – Link to come
Witch Hazel is featured at Point State Park, an Urban Garden in Pittsburg, PA.
And part of a lineup in a Front Lawn Alternative
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
More about the Podcast and Column:
Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.
It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Snowdrops and Winter Aconite bloomed early this year, leading to a chat about the folklore of the winter flowers.
Snowdrops, known as Candlemas Bells, are featured on Candlemas Day, representing Jesus bringing hope to the world.
We share a history of Candlemas Day, celebrated on February 2nd, along with Ground Hog Day, a holiday representing repetitiveness since the movie Groundhog Day became famous. One of the exciting repetitive tasks in anticipation of spring is purchasing seeds.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Winter Flowers and Folklore – link to come
March Folklore of Hope
Planting Snowdrops & Spring Bulbs
History of Groundhog Day
The Old Farmer's Almanac Weather Lore Calendar
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
Helping a lifelong friend create a more sustainable backyard by removing the turf and putting in a groundcover alternative and native plants to nurture nature leads to a friendly banter about the Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks from the wilderness.
We chat about the growing trend of stacked stones in parks and parks, also called cairns, causing a littering problem. And the fascinating inuksuks featured in an Alpine Garden Design.
And a magnificent sculpture created by nature: Tripod Rock - a massive boulder balanced by three smaller boulders at Pyramid Mountian in Montville, NJ.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks
Tripod Rock
Planning an Alpine Garden
Bureau of Land Management – About Mining and Minerals
Link to USDA Forest Service Recreational Mineral Collecting
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
A fence installed by upset neighbors leads to a story about "Forcing" Forsythia to Bloom Indoors while Propagating new Forsythia Plants in hopes of mending fences.
We chat about the steps to Encourage Forsythia to bloom indoors (some call it Forcing Forsythia, but encouraging sounds gentler) and how and when to plant your new plant babies.
The sunny yellow flowers of Forsythia are the first we see welcoming new beginnings of Spring. It only rises about as tall as the fence, opening the possibility of the neighbors becoming friends.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Mending Fences with Forsythia
Forsythia Hedge at Hospice
Forsythia, not Blooming?
The Old Farmer's Almanac handy chart- Forcing Branches into Bloom Indoors
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about Designing Container Gardens (including using vegetables) and the Impact of Color on emotions that also pertains to Designing Gardens.
We then discuss the Components of Structure (the Thriller, Filler, and Spiller) inspired by a talk given by Bruce Crawford, Manager of Horticulture at the Morris County Park Commission.
And wrap up with the other elements of plants and nature—the most miraculous- the lifeforce, the unseen. Think of your life as the same miracle, and allow your unseen inner self - your love and kindness flow through you. We're all seeds.
Related Stories & Helpful Links:
Colors in Gardens and Our Lives
Garden's Glow
We're All Just Seeds
Starting an Organic Garden
Vegetable Gardening Basics and Starting a No-Till Garden
Proven Winners' article on Using a Color Wheel to Select Flowers for Your Garden
Morris County Park's Commission
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about Starting an Organic Garden beginning with soil testing from your extension office. And we share fun DIY Home Tests for Contaminants and Soil pH you can do.
Then we review the creative ways to build raised beds as a workaround if you are concerned about your soil.
Link to Related Stories:
Starting an Organic Garden
Vegetable Gardening Basics and Starting a No-Till Garden
Foxes in the Garden
Fun Ways to Test Soil pH
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we reflect on how the Gardening Seasons relate to the Cycles in Our Garden of Life.
And we chat about natural ways to nurture our gardens, such as Three Sisters Gardening and No-Till Gardening, rather than the dependency on unnatural chemicals that hinder our dear earth.
Link to Related Stories:
Cycles in our Garden of Life
Three Sisters Gardening
No-Till Gardening and Starting a No-Till Garden
For more about Robin Wall Kimmerer's book Braiding Sweetgrass: https://www.robinwallkimmerer.com/
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
This week's episode is about the secret life of pinecones and cones- the fascinating fruits of conifers. We chat about the ingenious design of the encasement of woody cones and how they pollinate and protect seeds.
Then wrap up with a reflection on native Rhododendrons (Rhododendron maximum) we came upon on our way to Blue Mountain Lake, part of the Delaware Water Gap Recreational Area.
And, a personal note about Jolee, our rescue dog, and kind passersby who expressed concern seeing me walking without her, demonstrating the difference we can make by recognizing when something or someone is not the same.
Link to Related Stories:
The Hidden Life of Pinecones
Native Rhododendrons
Flora & Reflections from Blue Mountain
Repurposing Christmas Trees – including using them to feed the birds.
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
Snow Geese and Canadian Geese are glorious to many but pests to some. In this episode, we reflect on the Miracle on the Hudson River and lessons of acceptance.
Link to Related Stories:
Snow Geese Teach Acceptance
It Wants to Fly
Swarming Common Grackles
Link to All About Birds for more about Snow Geese
Song of the North Wind: A Story of the Snow Goose
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
AskMaryStone.com
Mother Nature and Mother Earth make many magnificent sounds. And the healing sounds of nature improve health and well-being, even in the winter. I came upon a Pileated Woodpecker on New Year's Day, a marvelous yet mischievous bird.
This episode includes a reflection on an analogy of healing sounds to kaleidoscopes – remember them as kids? And we are inspired to become astute observers, judging less and listening more. Not only to add joy to your day, but your happiness will be contagious to others.
Link to Related Stories:
Woodpeckers & Healing Sounds of Nature
Forest Bathing
Blue Jays Bad Reputation
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
There is much wisdom in the rhythm of the water. In this episode, we talk about the cycles of water, including the fascination of ice crystals decorating windows like etchings of intricate art.
Then there's Dr. Masaru Emoto's work published in, The Hidden Messages in Water (2004), where he explains how loving words of gratitude turned into exquisite crystals. While threatening phrases caused the crystals to become misshapen as if confused. We wrap up in appreciation for the sustenance of water.
Link to Related Stories:
Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water
The Lesson of LeafDr. Masaru Emoto’s book The Hidden Messages in Water (2004)
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Trees are connected and need each other to survive, just like people need each other, as do plants and animals. And there are insights we can learn from the interdependence of trees.
While what is happening in the world seems overwhelming. Our community will thrive if we treat our neighbors as ourselves, sharing love and compassion, like trees left standing in a forest, counting on and helping each other.
We wrap up with coaching on how to tickle the roots of new plants and the benefits of applying mycorrhizal inoculant on the root balls of certain plants.
Link to Related Stories:
Insights and Interdependence of Trees
Tickle and Rub Mycorrhizae
More about Peter Wohlleben, The Hidden Life of Trees -Forest Bathingand Wandering Willowwood Arboretum
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about Umbrella Pine, a living fossil dating back to when dinosaurs walked our world. The same is true of Ginkgo biloba, which we spoke about in episode 85.
There's a lesson in their endurance: The gentle outlasts the strong, referring to the wisdom of the Tao Te Ching, an ancient philosophy to live our true peaceful nature in the rhythm of nature.
Link to Related Stories:
Gentle Strength of Umbrella Pine
Enduring Hope of Gingko Trees
Tickle and Rub MycorrhizaeForest Bathingand Wandering Willowwood Arboretum
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this week's episode, we chat about B & B versus the benefits of Container-Grown trees that limit transplant shock. But sometimes B and B's are disguised as a container plant. A lesson I learned in a sad way.
Then tending to the outside holiday decorating turned the sadness into laughs and happy tears as we decorated Ellie's memorial tree – a replacement one as the Blue Spruce that served as a Christmas tree died.
We talk about the attributes of Ilex Opaca and the mystery of a 'Mary Holman' American Holly that became the replacement tree. But it, too, showed signs of severe decline and was at risk of dying. But TLC helped turn it around.
We wrap up with the lesson that there is beauty in imperfection.
Link to Related Stories:Holiday Decoration Reflections
Needle Cast on Ellie's Memorial Tree
Ball and Burlap versus Potted Tree
Decorating with Leave Behinds (aka "Road Kill" - smile)
A story about Bill's Weeping Hemlock in Merry Christmas Memories
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Peter Crane's book Ginkgo: The Tree that Time Forgot is a fascinating biography of the living fossil– a tree that survived the horror of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. With its resilience comes great lessons of enduring hope for peace.
(I met Peter when he spoke at a Woody Plant Conference held at the Scott Arboretum in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, where magnificent ginkgo espaliers and trees command the lawn.)
The episode ends with the analogy of the surviving ginkgo with inner cambium, which is like the inner light that guides us -- far more significant than our heritage, country, or family history.
I share a poem by Sufi poet Hafiz titled No More Leaving that explains the potential of our inner light. We are all one in our world, and deeply rooted in all of us is an internal code of honesty, trust, and kindness, not judging others or ourselves.
Link to Related Stories: Enduring Hope of Ginkgo Trees
The Fall of a Leaf ***
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In the winter season, roots are busy readying for the next season of growth. And it's an ideal time to root yourself in serving others. Small deeds make a difference.
This episode is inspired by the wisdom gained from the luncheon of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice volunteers. Then, it leads to a story of a kind passerby helping to save a snapping turtle that touches my heart. I hope it inspires you too.
Link to Related Stories:Winter Season of GrowthTalking to the Trees on Arbor Day The Fall of a LeafTurtle Island
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, I share a treat of gathering an allotment of veggies at Genesis Farm in Blairstown, NJ, gifted by a client who's become a friend. And the gift of coming upon Pawpaw fruit, having planned to plant a Pawpaw Tree in memory of my lifelong friend Elsa.
We chat about the attributes of Pawpaw trees and how to start them from seed. And end with my special request for a few helpers to preview portions of a book underway titled Lesson of the Leaf. If you'd like to help, please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much!
Link to Related Stories:Fall is not Goodbye - sharing the story of my friend Elsa.What's a Pawpaw Tree?Starting Pawpaw Trees from Seed Bulbs to Extend Spring Blooms
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we talk about an assortment of spring flowering bulbs to extend the bloom, as shared by my friend and design colleague Marty Carson from Three Seasons. We also talk about speedy ways to plant them.
Then we wrap up with Phil's Squirrel Dilemma, worthy of a standup comedy act. And how to prevent squirrels from digging up your bulbs.
Plus, a sidenote with Patti Doell of Little Big Farm's technique of bulb bouncing back to a previous story about No-till Gardening – Perhaps coining a new phrase- Low-till Gardening
Link to Related Stories:Bulbs to Extend Spring Blooms
Phil's Squirrel Dilemma
Patti Doell of Little Big Farm, a cut flower farm, story on No-Till Gardening
Link to Brent & Becky's Bulb Website
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we share Halloween's History and the legends of Sycamore Trees, also known as the Ghosts of the Forest. We talk about the magnificence ofSycamore, one of our largest hardwood trees, and the happy ghosts circling a massive one in Hope Township, NJ.
We wrap up with creating garden ghosts - my humorous ritual of covering potted gardens with sheets to protect them from frost. This year, I let nature do her thing. There's freedom in that.
Link to Related Stories:Halloween History & Sycamore Ghosts
My garden ghost routine - the preamble toOverwintering Potted Gardens
The Legend of Marigolds and the Day of the Dead.
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Seeing evergreens drop needles often triggers concern. It's kind of like an abundance of hairs in your shower drain. But Fall Needle Drop is normal.
We wrap up this episode with an analogy of Fall Leaf and Needle Drop and the renewal of the cells in our body and skin. We are always in transition. It's part of what we can count on in this life - change. May we find comfort in the cycles of the seasons.
Link to Related Stories:
Fall Needle Drop of Renewal
Vitamin Packed Leaf Confetti
Leaf Mold – Better than Mulch
I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
This episode features a special garden visit with Connie Kleindienst and her daughter Susan Meagher, a new neighbor and friend. Susan mentioned her Mom's boxwoods are showing signs of disease. So, I offered to drop by primarily to meet her Mom and witness their mother-daughter connection in the garden.
We chat about symptoms and remedies of the boxwood dilemmas, such as Boxwood Blight, caused by a fungus, and Boxwood Leaf Miner, an insect. But Connie's boxwood dilemma is likely Volutella. Fortunately, Connie's dilemma is early, and the avid gardener at eighty-nine years young will be on top of the remedy to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Then comes the best part of the visit is a delightful tour around the garden filled with treasures.
I'd love to hear about what or who gave you your gardening start. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
Link to Related Stories:
Boxwood Dilemmas & Garden Delights
Boxwood Blight Coming to Town?
Boxwood Leaf Miner
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential
The History of 4-H
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
My neighbor ate his volleyball – a Giant Puffball Mushroom, that is. I have one, too, that I've been monitoring in amazement, but eating it didn't occur to me. It turns out they are delicious.
In this episode, we chat about how to prepare Giant Puffball Mushrooms (Calvatia gigantean) and other edible fungi that are easy to ID.
Then we talk about Fairy Rings –circles of fungus that grow outward a few inches to several feet a year. Mushrooms, some edible, can develop outside of the rings after periods of heavy rain. Plus, there's fun folklore about Fairy Rings.
I'd love to hear about fungi you have found to feast upon. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thanks so much for tuning in :^)
Link to Related Stories:
Giant Puffball Mushrooms
Fairy Rings
Another story featuring Craig's garden dilemmas - Willows Gone Wild
Other helpful links:
Cabin Life.com's The Foolproof Four: Edible Wild Mushrooms
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about stumbling upon Dare to be Wild, a movie about Mary Reynolds', a landscape designer from Ireland -the youngest gold medal winner of the Chelsea Flower Show in 2002. Beyond the human love story was a story about the storyteller's love of the land, nurturing nature and ourselves while healing our dear earth.
We wrap up with my family gathering - a baby shower held at a llama farm. My sister's son and his wife are expecting a child in December. Dot handed me a bin of mom's treasures as we were leaving. Amongst them is a hand-typed document dated 1940 of Christmas Designs from Natural Materials with Conservation Laws courtesy of the Federated Garden Clubs of New York State.
The neat little treasure makes me think of dear old mom, who gave me my garden start. I'm curious who gave you yours? I'd love to hear from more of you kind listeners and readers. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
Link to Related Stories:
Mary Reynolds and Nurturing Nature
Designing Garden Layers
Forest Bathing
Other helpful links:
American Horticultural Society's – list of Native Plant Societies
North Creek Nurseries links to suggested resources
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about a presentation given by Claudia West, author of Planting in a Post-Wild World, about the importance of layering plant communities and designing garden layers.
"Plant more plants" was music to my ears – you'll see why!
Link to Related Stories:
Designing Garden Layers
Native Plants for Native Pollinators
Butterfly Garden of Growth
Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential – featuring Doug Talamy's book The Nature of Oaks.
Other helpful links:
American Horticultural Society's – list of Native Plant Societies
North Creek Nurseries links to suggested resources
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
After meeting Stephen Scannilello and purchasing his book A Year of Roses, my love-hate relationship for the Beauty and Beast of roses turned to respect. As you may guess, the fairytale Beauty and the Beast has something to do with it.
We chat about how to fertilize and care for roses, the benefits of planting Knockout Roses, and a favored climbing rose, Rosa' Dr. Van Fleet.'
The episode wraps up an outlook on Rose Leafhoppers leading to a life lesson shared by Beauty and the Beast - one should not judge another on appearances.
Link to Related Stories:
Beauty & Beast of Roses
Rose Remedies
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we chat about Stephanie's severe back slope overlooking a magnificent forest - a dilemma for those who wish to meander amongst the trees. That's where a steep woodland garden comes in.
We talk about perfect plants for a hillside woodland garden, the delightful day of digging them in, and tips on planting on a hillside.
We wrap up the episode with a story about a cherished Red Maple planted by my sister on a hillside when our dear Mom was living with her. It endured severe damage and recovered after becoming half a tree. Plants genuinely are resilient, especially with the love and admiration of caregivers.
Link to Related Stories:
Planting a Steep Woodland Garden
Proper Planting Hillside
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Join me and a loud chorus of cicadas during an extremely dry heat wave, leading to a story about the Origin of the Dog Days of Summer & Sweating like a Pig that may surprise you.
But before we dig into why it's called the Dog Days, the episode starts with an update about an adored beech tree that dropped an enormous limb. (You may recall we spoke about Beloved Mr. Beach in Episode 45.) A sad day, but like all of us, trees need to stay balanced.
We end with a reflection of Miss Ellie and Jolee cooling themselves in the garden during the Dog Days of Summer, bringing to mind a gifted plaque with a poem by an anonymous writer after Miss Ellie passed.
Link to Related Stories:
Origin of Dog Days & Sweating Like a Pig
Watering Distressed Plants is much like Watering New Plant Babies
About Mr. Beech in Beloved Beech Trees
About a cherished Pet Memorial Celebration in a previous story titled Forest Bathing
Link to a story about Miss Ellie Mae, my Unexpected Furry Messenger
Cicadas Sing 'Back to School'
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
An invitation to a pool party inspires gathering flowers from the garden to bring to the hosts. One of the lovelies, Mountain Mint, reminds me of a walk in the meadow with my birder buddy and naturalist I look forward to sharing with you.
Plus, we chat about other magnificent meadow plants and wrap up with a tale of wildlife visitors; Dennis Briede has a unique way of re-counting.
Link to Related Stories:
Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint - Link to come
A Walk in the Meadow
Cicadas Sing 'Back to School'
For more about Rosemary DeTrolio- Hands of Light by Rosemary
Kind listeners, I'd love to hear about your garden and nature stories. And your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we share stories of garden blessings with Rosemary DeTrolio while visiting her garden in Hope, NJ—a serene plot of vegetables and flowers planted by an extraordinary lady whose calling is to help others grow their spirit.
We wrap up the visit with Rosemary's beautiful story of garden blessings hidden in a sugar baby watermelon.
Link to Related Stories:
Sharing Garden Blessings with Rosemary
Birds & the Bees of Zucchini
The History of 4-H
For more about Rosemary DeTrolio- Hands of Light by Rosemary
I love to hear about your garden and nature stories, kind listeners. And, thoughts about what you'd like to listen to and learn about on future podcast episodes? Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thank you for tuning in :^)
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, you'll giggle over the story of Jolee's big dig, inspiring a chat about chipmunk remedies.
Then comes an Iroquois legend of a bear and a chipmunk leading to why chipmunks sport three stripes – a lesson to children about bullying. Imagine if there weren't any scars or stripes. Perhaps it's a lesson adults can learn too.
Link to Related Stories:
Chipmunk Remedies & Legends
The Legend of Marigolds
Link to an unabridged version of the Chipmunk and a Bear, An Iroquois Legend
I love to hear about your garden and nature stories, kind listeners. And, thoughts about what you'd like to listen to and learn about on future podcast episodes? Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. Thank you for tuning in :^)
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we talk about the lifecycle of the invasive yet beautiful Japanese Beetles and safe remedies to control them -- some may not be for the queasy at heart, but they are sure to bring a laugh. (Hint- you may be more cautious about drinking a margarita :^)
We then chat about how Japanese Beetles made their way here during the 1916 World's Fair. And a reflection of the powerful lyrics of It's a Small World (after all), debuted in the 1964 New York World's Fair, and how we can help grow our small world into a bigger world of kindness and love.
Link to Related Stories:
Safely Controlling Japanese Beetles
Japanese Beetle Time
Link to St. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore Powder and Bonide Japanese Beetle Killer with Pyrethrin
Link to It's a Small World (After All) by The Sherman Brothers
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
The episode starts with a bounceback to last week’s news of a robins nest in my Doulbefile Viburnum, leading to a story of a Red-Shouldered Hawk stalking the nest.
We chat about the call and behavior of the magnificent bird, learning that Red-Shouldered Hawks are Messengers of Vision. The story ends with outcomes of Hope.
Link to Related Stories:
Visions of the Red-Shouldered Hawk
Blue Jays Bad Reputation
Doublefile Viburnum Angels
For more about Red-Shouldered Hawks, visit The Cornell Lab All About Birds.
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
This episode starts with the news of a robins nest in my Doulbefile Viburnum, a frequented nesting spot. Robins represent renewal leading to a story about a Magical Trail of Renewal—a trail atop Camelback Ski Mountian I call the Top of the World.
You'll walk with me and hear about nature's glorious landscape, a personal journey of recovery, and the four paws that have shared the path.
We wrap up with a reflection on Independence Day and our freedom to grow in the garden of life.
Link to Related Stories:
Magical Landscape of Renewal
Robins of Renewal in the Garden
Unexpected Furry Messenger
More about Big Pocono State Park, I call the Top of the World :^)
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
A walk on the road with Jolee leads to a story of a neighbor tackling Japanese Knotweed, known to be invasive, though beautiful and beneficial to pollinators. We chat about how beekeepers make good use of Knotweed.
Afterward, Jolee rests in a patch of Crown Vetch. Farmers once used it as a cover crop, and municipalities and homeowners planted Crown Vetch to secure slopes. Now it's considered invasive in many places, though pollinators adore them too.
We wrap up chatting about Barberry & Butterfly Bush, once eagerly planted in landscapes and now are on invasive plant lists. Then we shift the paradigm by propagating new varieties and perhaps begin rethinking how we view invasive weeds and plants.
Link to Related Stories:
Knotweed meets Crown Vetch
September Roadside Beauties
Beneficial Ladybugs
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
While walking Jolee, I came upon a flower of a Tuliptree attached to a cluster of leaves. The culprit —squirrels, as we spoke about in Episode 15 – Litter of Tree Tips. Relishing the flower inspires a story of two treasured Tuliptrees, a Momma Tuliptree and a volunteer Baby — a story of resilience.
Links to Related Columns:
Treasured Tuliptrees
Litter of Tree Tips
Spruce Disease Dilemmas
More about the benefits of Tuliptrees on the Arbor Day Foundation website
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I adore helping clients design their gardens, procure plants, and place them. Then comes coaching on watering their new plant babies. This week's episode features Kathy & Sean and their charming pup Hank who supervised the installation :^) And how-to tips on Watering your New Plant Babies.
And, a tidbit on Zero-scaping, the trendy phonetic spelling of xeriscaping; also known as drought-tolerant or smart-scaping.
Links to Related Columns:
Watering New Plant Babies
Watering Protocols
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
In this episode, we share reflections from the Blairstown Memorial Parade. While we honor veterans who gave their lives protecting our safety and freedom, there is also a deep sadness over the physical and mental repercussions many veterans of war endure.
We also talk about poppies, the official flower of the American Legion, and National Poppy Day, the day before Memorial Day. The significance of poppies adds to the honor and beauty of growing them in your garden.
Let us hope and pray for a future of peace.
Link to Related Columns:
Memorial Day of Remembrance & Hope
History of Veterans Day Poppies
Meaning of Memorial Day – A Little Hope
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
We recently hiked Blue Mountain Lake, part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, filled with flora and reflections of what once was and what may come if redesignated as a national park.
There's irony in the glorious beauty amid the sadness of homes lost due to the Tocks Island Dam debacle in the 1950s.
And there's a lesson; we merely borrow the land on which we live. And hopefully, take respectful care of it while we do.
Link to Related Columns:
Flora & Reflections from Blue Mountain Lake
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
We begin this episode walking together and visiting the brook on which I live for a bit of reflection – and drop a leaf in the water sharing the Lesson of the Leaf my brother Bill left behind.
Then we talk about the mystery of mutating Alberta Spruce, how it magically came to be, and how it can revert to its origin.
While natural genetic mutation can be beneficial, turning into a lovely specimen plant such as Alberta Spruce, genetic mutations can be harmful.
I end the story on a personal note about my nephew Austin's wife, Sammi, asking for prayers. Thank you, kind listeners.
Link to Related Columns:
The Lesson of the Leaf
Doublefile Viburnum Angels
Mystery of Mutatiing Alberta Spruce
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
New rules about single-use plastic and paper bags put me into a tizzy; I'm embarrassed to confess.
Especially since brown bags are as recyclable as cardboard boxes- used excessively in online shopping. Plus, plastic bags are recyclable too and made into benches and composite decks.
But sadly, not everyone or every town recycles.
In this episode, Devin of Race Farm Market in Blairstown, NJ, shares encouragement that the new bag rules could be good for our dear earth. Plus, she shares repurposing garden pots and tidbits on the best time to plant annuals and vegetables.
Link to Related Columns:
Repurposing Pots & Bags to Benches
Planting Following Nature
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
It's fascinating to learn Why Weeping Cherry Weep and why sometimes they revert to straight stems with different color flowers, thanks to the wisdom shared by Ben Jansen of E. P. Jansen Nursery and Nancy Buley of J Frank Schmidt and Sons.
Link to Related Column: Reverting Weeping Cherry
About E. P. Jansen Nursery and J Frank Schmidt and Sons
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Perennials are emerging, inviting us to divide them to share with others, reminding me of a column long ago worthy of a refresher about Dividing Perennials.
Then I share the story of a family of foxes Jolee came upon the weekend of Comfort Zone Camp, a grief camp for kids, where they learn they are not alone in the world. Reminding me of a cherished book:
The Boy, the mole, the fox and the Horse is "meant for everyone whether you are eight or eighty," Charlie Mackesy writes, sharing comfort and wisdom such as asking for help is brave, a theme at Comfort Zone Camp too.
Links to Related Columns:
Charlie Mackesy: Sharing Comfort & Perennials
Dividing Perennials
Foxes in the Garden
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebookand Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Forsythia is one of the first shrubs to bloom, welcoming spring. We chat about maintaining its natural fountain shape rather than sporting funky haircuts.
And how, to my surprise, a hedgerow of golden forsythia at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice changed my view of forsythia groomed into a hedge.
Then we talk about organic corn gluten—an environmentally friendly pre-emergent for annual weed control. The time to apply corn gluten is when forsythia is in bloom.
Link to the related columns:
Forsythia at the Home for Hospice
Forsythia not Blooming?
Emma Stone Preferred Roots
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Last week's chat about Plants Between Nooks & Crannies led to other suggestions from you, kind listeners, including Hens and Chicks, that we share in this episode.
Then we talk about a favorite early spring plant: Pussy Willows and the Legends about Pussy Willows you'll enjoy.
Plus, a story about Gloria's bouncing baby willow grown for her daughter's new home and how you can root and plant a baby willow too.
Link to the related columns:
Easter Pussy Willows
Rooting and Planting Willow Branches
Sedum & Succulent Garden is mentioned in the episode regarding hens and chicks.
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Last week's talk about cleaning paths and patios without harming plants raises the question of favorite Plants between Nooks and Crannies.
In this episode, we share my favs that found their way on their own and how you can encourage volunteers too. And other plants ideal for nooks and crannies, some safe for barefooted traffic. Plus, a tidbit on the glory of the Lotus Effect in the garden.
Link to the related columns:
Favorite Plants between Steppingstones
Dollar Spot & Lotus Effect
Planting Following Nature (also featured in Ep 26 of the podcast)
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Last week's chat about Leaving Lichen and Moss Be brought a rally of like-minded folks (yay). But there can be safety concerns of slippage on walks and patios.
This episode talks about ways to clean walkways and patios while preserving the plants in the nooks and crannies. And other Early Spring Gardening Tips, including snippets from a Honey-do List sure to bring a smile.
Link to the related columns – Safely Clean Stone Patios, Spring Garden Honey-Do's,
And a throwback to a story in Episode 12 – Clover Lawn Alternative
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Each spring, mostly from neat and tidies, the intention to remove moss or lichen from walls and walks comes up. But unless causing a hazard, I coach folks to leave lichen and moss be.
In this episode, you’ll grow to like lichen, an intriguing organism that is much like an air plant. And laugh at a funny text exchange about removing moss madness.
Link to the related columns – Liking Lichen, Removing Moss Madness, and Let Lichen and Moss be.
I look forward to sharing more garden and nature stories from you, kind listeners. Please email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Last week's chat about personal growth with houseplants came with a struggle of self-doubt. Then came a recording by Louise Hay sharing her 10 Essential Steps to Loving Yourself, with an analogy to starting a garden that will inspire you.
We chat about a simple way to Start a Garden, the No-Till Gardening way using cardboard boxes. And how being your best friend helps you grow loving yourself.
Link to the related column – Love Yourself-Love Your Garden and Starting a No-Till Garden
Plus Link to Louise Hay's talk - How to love yourself 10 steps to loving yourself Louise Hay-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9m8FQ6EHV8
I'd love to hear about how gardens, nature, or plants have contributed to your growth, too, by emailing me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
I've mentioned the idea of sharing the history of houseplants enjoyed for decades. Well, it turned into a story about personal growth with houseplants — with reflections that I hope will encourage and inspire you too.
One of the beautiful outcomes of transitions and challenging times is growth and healing — A thought-provoking analogy to consider with the changes in growth in our houseplants.
Link to the related column – Personal Growth with Houseplants. And Lesson of the Leaf.
I'd love to hear about plants that have contributed to your growth, too, by emailing me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
I always feel bad when cut flowers fade, having to toss them in the compost pile when a houseplant gift lasts for years.
In this episode, I share a story from Ken Roberts, a dear friend and singing partner at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice, who brings a new light to the joy of receiving the gift of cut flowers-- A story that will warm your heart.
Link to the related column – The Joy of Receiving Cut Flowers
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
One of the gems that jumped out from The Book of Hope we chatted about last week is Jane Goodall's closest childhood friend Beech, a beech tree. You see, I have a Mr. Beech too, although I don't climb mine as Jane used to do. It occurs to me beloved beech trees aren't often chosen as landscape trees, and I wonder why.
We talk about how beech trees benefit wildlife, how their bark resembles our skin, and overcome concerns of being finicky to transplant.
Then we wrap up our chat with a conclusion shared at the end of The Book of Hope with a message of hope from Jane Goodall, reflecting on the havoc and heroes of the pandemic and joys sure to bring a smile.
(As promised in the podcast, here are the links to see the joys firsthand, but be sure to listen to the episode first :^)
-
String quartet performs for an audience of plants inside the Barcelona Opera House: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9BRbtIgipQ
-
Humboldt Penguins visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6buz-qJsNQ
Link to the related column – Beloved Beech Trees (to come)
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
In this episode, we chat about The Book of Hope by Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams. Essentially the inspirational book is a dialog with Jane Goodall about her reasons for hope despite the world's increasing troubles. The subtitle— A Survival Guide for Trying Times, but merely surviving seems sad. I like to think of it as A Guide to Growing Hope instead.
Most known for her study of chimpanzees and her mission to protect them by protecting their habitats, Goodall's words will assure you that we still have time to save the natural world and improve the environment.
She explains that each of us can make a difference by taking action. And by doing so, you'll inspire others to do the same.
Link to the related column - Growing Hope-The Book of Hope
Link to Jane Goodall Institute https://janegoodall.org/
and Roots and Shoots https://www.rootsandshoots.org/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
When you think about it, the most resilient things in nature are soft and pliable, like blades of grass that bounce back after being trampled. And trees that sway with the wind, enduring severe storms, heavy snow, or ice.
Birch trees, one of my favs, have a reputation of being soft-wooded and prone to damage when the opposite is true. There's strength in flexibility as it enhances endurance —wisdom for all of us.
https://askmarystone.com/birch-trees-strength-in-flexibility/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
You may recall our chat inspired by Cheryl. She started avocado seeds in water as a science experiment to encourage her daycare center kids to grow interested in plants (featured in Episode 39). Since then, a story of a magical avocado tree came to me through a dear friend who brings with it the wisdom of encouragement.
https://askmarystone.com/a-magical-avocado-tree/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
It occurs to me that our life cycles are much like the cycles of nature and seasons, which inspired the story I'd like to share with you today. And while winter is a perfect time to inventory gardens (and our lives) in my neck of the woods, wherever you are, there's always an ideal time.
https://askmarystone.com/inventorying-gardens-and-our-lives/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
Martin Luther King's Day honors a great man. In preparation, I dug through the internet maze to learn more about the advocate of equality, looking for a connection to gardens or nature to share with you today. Along with that comes a reflection you will enjoy.
https://askmarystone.com/coretta-scott-king-forest/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
In this episode, Jolee pulls me towards Cheryl as she grabs her mail, resulting in a lovely chat leading to her avocado dilemma.
It’s fun to revisit the magic of sprouting avocado seeds in water that brings with it life lessons :^).
https://askmarystone.com/sprouting-avocado-seeds-in-water/
I look forward to sharing more stories that come from you, kind listeners. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
A New Year, just as birthdays, gifts the opportunity to start fresh—to begin new things or improve upon others. A chance for turning over a new leaf, as they say.
One new leaf I hope to turn over is sharing more stories of how plants inspire our lives — stories that come from you, kind listeners, and readers.
Today we chat about Pat's beautiful story of her "welcome home" clematis; sure to warm your heart.
https://askmarystone.com/turning-over-a-new-leaf/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
For the first time in a long time, I wrote a Christmas letter to friends from far away, sharing the joy coming from the arrival of our rescue dog Jolee. And the inspiration she gave us as we witnessed her maneuver through the fear and uncertainty.
I hope the letter will inspire you to Choose Love over Fear in this Merry Season of Love.
Here’s to a new year of growth!
Link to related story Merry Season of Love over Fear
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
It's the first since spring the indoor plants are back inside, leading to tips on tending to indoor plants and a surprise from a tiny book, She Who Loves a Garden with wisdom from Madame de Staël, born in 1766 — "Sow Good Services; Sweet remembrances will grow from them."
https://askmarystone.com/sow-good-services/
Then we honor Naomi Long Madgett, sharing her inspiring poem titled Woman with Flower, summing up her remarkable life in her own words given at the Charles Wright Museum of African American History in 2017.
https://askmarystone.com/lessons-from-woman-with-flower/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts out sharing a walk in the woods with you for a bit of Leaf Therapy—finding comfort amongst the trees, and an unexpected encounter, a gal who gifts wisdom of serving others —Big love.
https://askmarystone.com/leaf-therapy-fills-emptiness/
Then we talk about tidbits from a Plant Symposium themed around native plants. With a special guest Douglas Tallamy author of a go-to resource Bringing Nature Home, and a fabulous new book, The Nature of Oaks— "one of the most important species of the plant kingdom."
https://askmarystone.com/native-plants-especially-oaks-are-essential/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with Forest Bathing, a topic not new to me, though the label is. Forest Bathing or Forest Therapy is not about hiking; it's about Being in the woods. Not only does it feel good, but it's also scientifically proven to help heal the body and soul.
https://askmarystone.com/forest-bathing/
· A book I favor on the subject -- Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li
Then, we wander through Willowwood Arboretum - Home of 13 Champion Trees, though labeling them as such seems partial.
Trees need each other, as Peter Wohlleben writes in the Hidden Life of Trees. So, the whole forest is the champion. Better yet, let's not label them at all, and let's embrace the miracle and grandness of all trees.
https://askmarystone.com/wandering-willowwood-arboretum/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Welcome to our chat from the screen porch about garden and nature stories that help heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with a story of a lifelong friend’s adventure of growing ungodly HOT Peppers in pots that turns into a gift of delicious jelly.
https://askmarystone.com/growing-hot-peppers-into-jelly/
Then there’s a tidbit on the outcomes of the anticipated Brood-X invasion you can read more about in the link below.
https://askmarystone.com/brood-x-cicada-2021-recap/
Plus, we talk about how Russ and Sara use worm castings in their hot pepper potting mix. Answering the question, “What are worm castings anyway?” And how you can make your very own.
https://askmarystone.com/what-are-worm-castings/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for being part of our community, sharing how gardens and nature heal and grow our lives.
Shagbark hickory produces Juglone, a natural herbicide, but in far less concentration than the Eastern Black Walnut, famous for being allelopathic – a fancy word for emitting chemicals that harm other plants. Thankfully many plants will thrive around Juglone. I share a story of Elisabeth who bought an 1800’s farmhouse graced with Black Walnut trees and her desire for fruit trees and a vegetable garden.
https://askmarystone.com/juglone-companion-plants/
https://askmarystone.com/fruits-and-veggies-near-black-walnut/
Then we chat about an artful, slightly freaky, and fun anomaly most don’t know about. Dorrie sent photos of her Black-eyed Susan and Coneflowers with extended centers, concerned it was a disease. It turns out to be the fascinating anomaly of fasciation. Mother Nature can be so clever.
https://askmarystone.com/fascinating-anomaly-of-fasciation/
https://askmarystone.com/deformed-flowers-on-black-eyed-susan/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for being part of our community, sharing how gardens and nature heal and grow our lives.
In this episode, I share the story of our rescue pup coming upon an American toad. Gratefully Jolee didn’t pounce for the kill, the fate of cave crickets, though we’re grateful for her finesse. Bringing a curiosity— do cave crickets benefit the garden?
https://askmarystone.com/do-cave-crickets-benefit-the-garden/
Then we chat about Mayapple, a desirable native perennial, unbeknownst to me while planting my first perennial garden two decades ago. The charming plants look like a swath of glistening umbrellas or large shiny shamrocks—maybe why this ‘big kid’ adores them, imagining woodland fairies hiding below.
There’s a poem that shares the sentiment written by Minnie Curtis Wait in 1901. And Ken Robert’s, a dear friend and volunteer singing partner for Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice, turned into a magical song you’ll enjoy called Mandrakes, another name for Mayapple and the poem title given by Minnie Curtis Wait.
https://askmarystone.com/mayapple-of-my-eye/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Thank you for being part of our community, sharing how gardens and nature heal and grow our lives.
In this episode, columnist and designer Mary Stone shares why and how to attract toads to your garden. Plus a heartfelt story of an American toads’ visit during her mother’s decline -- when the garden became sorely ignored.
https://askmarystone.com/attracting-toads-to-your-garden/
https://askmarystone.com/healing-in-the-garden-of-life/
Did you know there’s a considerable decline in amphibians in the last 20 years? And that changes in frog and toad populations are one of the first signs of environmental concerns.
We talk about Frog Watch USA, a citizen science program that’s organized volunteers to monitor frog populations since 1998. That way, we can identify environmental problems and address them. All it takes is a few hours of training, learning their mating sounds, and a few minutes four times a year. It’s simple, it’s fun, and you can make a difference.
https://askmarystone.com/frog-watch-usa/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Castor beans, ladybugs, and bloody aphids.
Life is full of garden pests like aphids who once again have wreaked havoc on the leather leaf viburnum gracing the garden outside the screened porch. This episode talks about the desperate measures of rejuvenation pruning a few years back and other reasons to prune which mirrors how we take care of our families and ourselves.
https://askmarystone.com/reasons-to-prune/
Then there’s a tidbit on castor beans used to camouflage the uglies as the viburnum grew back. Yes, they are poisonous, but don’t pose a threat in the garden yet provide a dramatic annual effect. You’ll hear about Thomas Jefferson’s, a collector of plants, giant castor bean plants and his intended purpose in his Monticello estate.
https://askmarystone.com/castor-beans-plants-hide-uglies/
Well, the aphids are back on the viburnum once again wreaking havoc. And so we chat about a plan B. Organic insecticides or perhaps a fleet of beneficial ladybugs, not to be confused with the Asian lady beetles brought in years ago for biological controls that are known to invade homes.
Speaking of aphids, by kind neighbor came to the rescue with twelve lovely ladies as part of a science experiment— ladybugs that is that feed on the suckers by the hundreds.
https://askmarystone.com/beneficial-ladybugs/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for being part of our community, spreading the word about how gardens and nature can heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with an overview of Three Sister’s Gardening that leads to a story of stumbling upon a baby porcupine and the angels that helped. Plus, a question posed to all: What makes great companions in the garden and the garden of life?
https://askmarystone.com/three-sisters-gardening/
Then we learn about No-Till Gardening thanks to an interview with Patti Doell, owner of a Little Big Farm, a cut flower farm in Blairstown, NJ—Wait until you hear how it can take less work to have better soil and more flowers and veggies!
https://askmarystone.com/no-till-gardening/
https://askmarystone.com/starting-a-no-till-garden/
More about Patti Doell - https://littlebigfarm.com/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
**Thank you for being part of our community, spreading the word about how gardens and nature can heal and grow our lives.
The episode starts with the fascinating chemistry of skunk cabbage, its attractive appearance, and its appeal to pollinators despite its foul smell. Can it be used in your garden? Indeed, in a boggy spot, it can, but there's more to consider…**https://askmarystone.com/skunk-cabbage-appeal/
Then we chat about a Rhubarb which shares similar chemistry to Skunk Cabbage. And the prehistoric look of Ornamental Rhubarb compared to the edible kind.
https://askmarystone.com/rhubarb-edible-vs-ornamental/
It's fascinating how plants and animals have protective mechanisms to deter predators and pests.
The episode wraps up with an incident with a baby porcupine and Mary's new rescue dog Jolee.
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for being part of our community, spreading the word about how gardens and nature can heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with a chat about an old-time saying, “March Comes in Like a Lion and Out Like a Lamb.” Or is it “In Like a Lamb and Out Like a Lion?” They imply a balance in weather, a balance in life.
While the old sayings are fun to consider, we have no control over nature or the cycles of life. We can, however, control our ability to spread love to grow feelings of hope.
After something sad, like the pandemic, can come something good—there is love opposing fear. There is hope in the promise of new beginnings. https://askmarystone.com/march-folklore-of-hope/
Next, we chat about planting following the cycles of nature called phenology, planting by the moon, and why taking clues from Mother Nature, and taking soil temperature, makes so much sense. https://askmarystone.com/planting-following-nature/
The episode wraps up with a fun little ditty about a lineman who used a garden rake to reset power lines counting Mississippi’s between thunder and lightning, leading to the benefits of grounding — gardening in your bare feet. https://askmarystone.com/counting-mississippi-grounding/
Thank you for sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Thank you for being part of spreading the word about how gardens and nature can heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with The Little Prince's view that it's critical to rid the little planets he visits of all the bad seeds that turn into bad plants. Specifically, the Baobab—ironically, an ancient tree adored here on earth—leading to a lesson of clearing resentments and growing in kindness (before it destroys our world.)
Then there are highlights of a Woody Plant Conference hosted by the PA Horticultural Society, including a report of Baobabs' decline in Africa known as the Tree of Life. Plus a tidbit about Wakehurst's Millennium Seed Bank initiatives and a Plant Exploration with a Purpose. https://askmarystone.com/baobab-tree-of-life/
The episode wraps up with a heartfelt story of three young philanthropists taking it upon themselves to help Rivers Edge Horse Rescue and Sanctuary, showing us that something little can grow into something big. https://askmarystone.com/helping-rivers-edge-horse-rescue/
Thank you for being part of our community sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
And Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Thank you for being part of a community spreading the word about how gardens and nature can heal and grow our lives.
This episode starts with an update on Ellie's Living Christmas Tree and the arrival of a new rescue adopted from a kindhearted shelter featured in the story of Father John's Animal House Garden.
Did you know 20-20 Vision not perfect vision? I share lessons of recovery inspired by Comfort Zone Camp's founder Lynne Hughes and the hope of Better than Twenty-Twenty vision for a bright future ahead in this garden of life.
In thinking about the next season of growth, I share the story of frolicking foxes in front of her future vegetable garden and the lessons of a fox featured in the classic tale The Little Prince. We chat about how to keep the mischievous yet beneficial furry friend from eating your veggies. You'll giggle over an overnight visit of two young fox one winter's night—here's the link to related column Foxes in the garden.
Thank you for being part of our community sharing the garden of life,
Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer
Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com
I invite you to email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com
Episode web page — Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page
Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone