Garden Design Tips for Beginners

[@laurarussell9354]

Just came inside after a morning of working in the garden in Florida. Whining while walking inside to watch this video and take a break from the heat and humidity!!! Still loving every minute of the garden. That’s when you know you’re doing what you love. Complaining, drenched in sweat, tired and achy, but still happiest in my garden!

[@Li-Anderson]

I am in Florida🏖️ as well!🤗 Very hot🥵 I was outside also, took a break🥤💦 started this morning. Done for today☺️. I am a new gardener(3yrs)is this new🤔. However, taking lots of notes. Planting wisely now, that, I have so many garden mentors.🤗 Thank you, Linda & garden family. I am being trained by the best!🥰

[@Li-Anderson]

I am in Florida🏖️ as well!🤗 Very hot🥵 I was outside also, took a break🥤💦 started this morning. Done for today☺️. I am a new gardener(3yrs)is this new🤔. However, taking lots of notes. Planting wisely now, that, I have so many garden mentors.🤗 Thank you, Linda & garden family. I am being trained by the best!🥰

[@Li-Anderson]

I am in Florida🏖️ as well!🤗 Very hot🥵 I was outside also, took a break🥤💦 started this morning. Done for today☺️. I am a new gardener(3yrs)is this new🤔. However, taking lots of notes. Planting wisely now, that, I have so many garden mentors.🤗 Thank you, Linda & garden family. I am being trained by the best!🥰

[@Edu_Kate]

Here in Minnesota, we just had a week of Florida weather (I know, because I once lived near Orlando). We caught a break today, but I hear round two is coming. This is June!

[@kathiboller8122]

Me too! Love it even while complaining how hot and humid it is!

[@BeautifulLivingHome]

Miss Vater I was in Lowe's garden section yesterday and I was so pleasantly surprised to see your beautiful face on a product display🌺 Congratulations on your growth and success!💗

[@LindaVater]

Aw. Thank you ☺️

[@bridgetulrich1711]

Wow! I’ll have to check Lowe’s for Linda too!

[@leighseymour235]

Yes. I found a pink auger earlier in the spring. And, yes, I bought it, and so glad I did!

[@janicemurphy4373]

YOU ARE SO HUMBLE, LINDA THIS MAKES ALL OF US CLUMSY GARDENERS HAVE HOPE!!!!!!! WE LOVE YOU LINDA!!!!!!! YOUR GARDEN HAS EVOLVED BEAUTIFULLY, IT IS VERY COZY!!!!!!!!!! AND PLEASE STOP BEING SO HARD ON YOURSELF, YOUR GARDEN 🪴 IS SO BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE JUST LIKE YOU!!!!!!!!!!

[@myurbanoasisphilly]

I love how Linda uses her own language lol.... I mean she's not making up words she's using words that I don't typically use in a way that just sounds so cool, luxurious, and effortless! I find myself saying why the hell did I use that word that way! There's just a coolness a hipness that oozes from her. I like it! Her coolness is not exclusive to her It seems so obtainable if you just put in a little effort! I walk around my garden talkinh about I need me a "terracotta theater!" Or "where the hell is my potager"😂✊🏿🖤

[@LindaVater]

Damn I love you for this comment😆🤣😂

[@myurbanoasisphilly]

@@LindaVater I watch all of your videos , You're addictive!

[@ourlifeedited6441]

Every time I pot a shrub or tree I say to myself, “Now let’s get this to fly right.” 😂

[@Luke12vs48]

@@nevnaidoo9801 🤣🤣🤣

[@danielallen138]

An online friend of mine (a horticulturalist) shares my love of words, and we routinely send each other unusual words we come across, often preceded with the line, "New to me. You?" Just recently I shared with him that Linda had used the word "bibelot" in one of her videos. While I was familiar with it, the word was new to him! One of Linda's wonderful talents is that she is so very articulate, and yet has a lovely conversation tone as she shares her knowledge and love of gardening!

[@songsgardensbyjenniferlynn3242]

I would have started new trees 4 years ago when I moved unto this place. I’m finally starting to plant the trees that I love!

[@jaxthetimetraveller]

An idea for your now-sunny bench area: how about an arch over the bench, with a climbing rose each side for each of your sons

[@kathleentwyman7010]

I'm in Chicago, i would incorporate water features, i love the sound of water when im in the garden 😍

[@dianegentry3255]

I wanted a pond really bad but heard of the upkeep. We did invest in a nice fountain and that has been a great blessing! Little upkeep. Happy gardening from Raleigh!

[@Edu_Kate]

I, too, love the sound of water. I mean, my favorite vacation spot is Lake Superior. But after hearing all the work involved at season end or start, I said no.

[@theaccidentalcook8557]

@@Edu_Kate yeah, it's a bit of a job especially during summer because algae blooms and it's a constant battle during the warmer months.

[@mindydiaz9015]

I thought I felt the same. I live in Oklahoma I'm land locked and have an obsession with water probably for that reason. I asked my husband who has a landscaping company to build me a beautiful a small pond with a fountain for me and the frogs. He did and it is gorgeous but I find myself getting annoyed with the constant background noise. I have realized I actually like it quiet more than anything.

[@phyllisperryman7957]

I put a water fountain close to my deck and just love the sound.

[@billierichardson6984]

This year I had raised vegetable beds constructed and I LOVE them! My veggies do too. I will be 82 in August and crawling around on my hands and knees is not fun! The best part of my garden right now is eating salad every day for lunch from my garden: kale, snow peas, asparagus, grape tomatoes, basil or French tarragon, onion ... yum! I add a little cheese and some nuts or seeds.

[@Edu_Kate]

Ooh! I hadn't thought of adding French tarragon to my salads. I have an enormous plant and a tiny one and no recipes.

[@msflores3452]

Linda , you got me reflecting now...so here goes. 90 degrees and very humid here in Kyle Texas. Moved here 9 years ago from Austin, our second down size 😉. We moved around a lot because of my husband job , been married 44 yrs. I always put in a garden , trees and lots of grass in every house we’ve lived in.. total of 7 homes! Never could do without grass while the kids were growing up but now my gardening is all about what I’ve always wanted.. lots of shrub, flowers trees and flagstone walk paths with no grass. The back yard was a blank canvas when we moved in to our house now. It had a pitiful Bradford pear tree and no grass just holes a dog had dug. Now it’s a little paradise. I’m 71 and have fibromyalgia but it hasn’t stopped me from doing what I love.. gardening. Early mornings is my favorite time to work in my back and front yards. Just want to say ... Its beyond me why young couples don’t plant trees when they move into a house. The builder gives you one tree yeah but it doesn’t mean you can’t plant more trees , etc. Even if you’re not a gardener.. think of shade and the future ☺️. So Linda ... don’t change a thing in your beautiful gardens .. it’s perfection!

[@LindaVater]

You are my heroine! Yes. Plant a tree!!

[@theresaholden7580]

So crazy, as a 5 years new gardener I was just thinking I don’t need everything, I started out collecting plants instead of stepping back and looking at the cohesiveness of my garden. I have been rehoming some “clutter”! It’s never ending changing! Love your familiar thoughts and how you deal with your beautiful garden.

[@alanabigford1074]

“I’m not a real gardener, I’m a learn as you go gardener.” Oh Linda, I think any gardener worth their salt just has to learn as they go at SOME point. Your years of experience are invaluable to those of us just starting out, like me. No need to always be so humble. Your Gardener status is well earned. 💕

[@jonicorbett4712]

Great video! Lots of very usable information!

[@ConnorOBrien]

I’m 29 and just starting our garden/landscaping in earnest. I definitely want to plan for aging and future limitations. I originally wanted to plan so my mother and grandmother could enjoy and navigate easily, but it’ll also help me out later in life. What a great tip!

[@Tan_Z]

Gardening must be anti-aging. You look so young!

[@Lori1976]

Cheesecake works wonders too.. 😉

[@suzym4706]

I’m doing fantastic! I have everything she wished she did differently, I have the native plants and trees, the fruit trees and blooming shrubs ❤️. Thanks for your inspiration, I was in a deep dark funk, then I found you. Linda you changed my life, ❤️ to you. ✌🏼🇺🇸🪴

[@LindaVater]

Then here’s to you and the sassiness to pull yourself out of a dark funk! Well done you!👏👏👏👏👏

[@jenniferdahl4475]

Yes these videos lift me as well. May I also suggest if you don’t already check out “Garden Answer”, and my personal mood brightener, “White Cottage Company”.

[@savvysusie3444]

Springfield, Missouri is hot and humid. I don't think as hot as you are. I think our gardens teach us to have confidence in our abilities to design and adapt. Your garden is beautiful and I love to watch you as it helps me know that I am not alone in my desire to make beautiful choices with beautiful things. I always say there are no mistakes....only embellishment opportunities.

[@LindaVater]

Yes!!

[@rosemownow]

Gardening can be a wonderful source of healthy movement - helping us to maintain strength and balance as we enjoy something we love while “working out” in our gardens! The less we do the less we will be able to do!! Keep moving, living and enjoying, even the hard work that your garden provides along with the beauty

[@RichardGilbert2727]

I love how your garden, and those you have featured by friends, are restful and comfortable to hang out in. As someone new to a property, and able to return to perennials, I have got to watch making a hodgepodge.

[@denisecoviello5619]

We moved into a well established shade garden 10 years ago. I wish we had trimmed up a few trees sooner. I don't mind moss on my pots, but constantly fight it on my patio and outdoor furniture. You should consider editing a few plants around the sentimental bench. One day you and Hubs may want to sit there again to watch your grandbabies show off their superhero moves!

[@dianegentry3255]

Yes! I have gardened with my two grands and it’s a sweet blessing!

[@condritahenderson3763]

Love that kids are jumping on the trampoline in the background, miss both sets of my kids at this age, having so much fun! They are now 30,27, 16, and 14 years old( three young ladies and one young man). Enjoy your afternoon!

[@bernadette721]

Your boxwood hearts are the cutest thing I’ve ever seen in a garden. My advice, never get rid of those. Way too beautiful.

[@sarahsiskin6780]

I love them too but if she wants to grow veg then they have to go. They are taking up the whole space also, so as beautiful as they are, their shape is lost by their size now. I’d toss them, put veg in, and have it surrounded by new, baby boxwoods. And then keep Them smaller. I do love yours tho!!

[@joywhitley3141]

@@sarahsiskin6780 I agree…take them out. She could put her greenhouse there…or raised beds with boxwood accents.

[@msroro3127]

@@joywhitley3141 I think she should get rid of the boxwood and get a hartly greenhouse.

[@joywhitley3141]

@@msroro3127 Good idea, Rolanda!

[@JLee-pc2vc]

I wish my younger gardening self had known about the cardboard/compost/wood chip method of creating no dig garden bed space. I used to dig out sod by hand. It was backbreaking in rocky, Virginia red clay. My no dig beds have better soil and fewer weeds and they are much easier to create. I still trench edge my beds so I can mow along them, but I will never dig out sod again!

[@Li-Anderson]

I just learned about this, I am doing this method everywhere in my garden.🤗

[@gardener5158]

I'm 69 yrs old & still digging sod by hand...I use the cardboard method but still get weeds!

[@Li-Anderson]

@@gardener5158 O wow! Hopefully this won't happen for me. I just put some in one of my favorite beds, just last week.

[@dianegentry3255]

Same here in Raleigh. Terrible rocky, clay soil. I’m thinking of trying this method. Do you have a link. Happy gardening!

[@JLee-pc2vc]

@@gardener5158 The first step is to weedeat all the grass and weeds down to the ground so that it looks like bare dirt. Put down your cardboard with pieces slightly overlapping. Put down 1" of compost for nitrogen replacement. Pile on 8" of fresh wood chips. The weeds don't come back.

[@lindarenwick5079]

We've had such odd weather in So Cal this Spring but Tues hits 111! Unusual for this time of year!

[@retiringteresa3521]

Thank you for this video. For the first time I now; at the age of 70, finally have a house in a small town in Indiana after living in the desert. There is a back yard that needs to be started from nothing except mature trees. It is a big dream for me to have this space for a garden. I really appreciate your "if I started over" insight. I have some physical challenges so it will be slow going. I feel inspired to get going and feel encouraged by your videos.

[@bevpowell841]

Sunset Beach NC here! Yes ma’am. We are steamy here ! Enjoy your videos... thanks for the thoughtful content!

[@amcluesent]

It's a pleasant 60°F here in Scotland. Advice would be get the hard-landscaping, electric and water supply done first

[@deborahking5309]

Oh I fell in love with Scotland and cant wait to visit again. Hopefully next year

[@LindaVater]

Yes!!!

[@christinatady4951]

Lovely weather in Scotland, wish I were there!

[@theaccidentalcook8557]

Absolutely! And also drainage areas. Was just talking to my husband that when we get our second home, those bits would have to be done first.

[@joycekuhlman4450]

VERY rainy here inMD 7b . I typed before finishing the video,, your are an inspiration to yourself and others. Don’t ever not call yourself a gardener!!! You are! And I too have learned over my 30 years of gardening that we change are priorities change and our gardens change as we change with them. My beautiful spring flowers are being beaten down. I noticed the summer flowers are blooming a little early also. Ok I would do a lot of research about the flowers that have “weed” in their names and not plant or put in pots. And watch out for flowers that have runners, lol I design in head and then on paper. And do more bones in the garden first off. And plant for all seasons. Oh and be a patient Gardner, lol

[@billbixby122]

Good idea .Gardening is hard work. Just think of all the master gardeners.

[@cafefay]

Junuary here in the Pacific Northwest, high today is 63° and rain. The bonus is I fertilized the other day and nature is watering for me. Change I made in my garden - we removed our wood deck and replaced it with a concrete patio with a permanent roof cover that comes off the house 9 yrs ago. It extended our summer living area during both cool and hot times if the year💚

[@reginakenger5737]

That’s my one regret, I was so undecided on a deck or patio. I went with the deck, wish I had done the patio.

[@mkpoptic5790]

Linda this was of your best videos yet. I agree that we don’t know what nature will do to our plans and our bodies. That’s why our gardens are never “done”. We learn how to adjust to change and live in the moment by tending to our gardens. Thank you for sharing your authenticity❤️ from my gardeners heart to yours. MK

[@pennywilkendorf2925]

Zone 5 Illinois. Northerner here. Summer has slapped us in the face with her humid,hot hand! What I would do differently; you have taught me about drift planting. I dotted one here one there. Your drifts look a beautiful and cohesive. I would definitely drift plant!

[@kimberly8185]

I'm working on incorporating this into my gardens as well

[@dreileigh]

I love this..... dear younger me... I always tell young gardeners to make gardens that their older self will be able to handle..... I wish someone told me that. I am glad that I found your channel, because it has let me container garden and topiary hobby now and that way I am not adding knee work... already have enough of that.... good video Linda and Stuart.

[@fannieallen6005]

I started late building flower beds. I'm 68 and I feel like I need to use more pavers than gravel for most of my walkways and patios. I love shrubs that bloom ,so I will mainly focus on the appropriate sizes needed in certain areas. Thanks for the tips.

[@Edu_Kate]

My favorite "shrub" is peonies. Sadly, the heat forced an early end to the show. But now I'll deadhead them and they'll look like green shrubs.

[@5262janna]

It has been so hot in Illinois the last few days being outside working yesterday felt Like august . It is cooling down. Starting a new garden is always fun, we would love to watch you make the magic happen. Enjoy and do whatever you would like, although we follow you, it is your life

[@trishferrer8209]

I love your idea of going with "more of less" plants. Since I am so new at gardening, I have gone crazy, planting too many varieties, but all my gardens are beautiful!

[@pamelaritch8587]

It’s horribly humid in Central Texas. Feels like being on the coast. I’ve learned to space out plants and be patient and try out new plants in pots for instant color.

[@Li-Anderson]

In Florid🏖️🥵💦🥤 Doing the same now, I am container craz!🤭🤗

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hi Linda! The one thing I would change in my younger New Jersey gardening days is............I would not let people (Hubs) talk me out of adding new pathways and shrubs to make small garden rooms in my landscape! Always an excuse of why are you looking for more work!! I should not have given in!!! Oh well........now at the age of 71 I am living in a villa in Florida with all these great ideas you have given me and no where to apply them!!! LOL! That's ok...........I have a few beautiful containers on our porch and lanai and enjoy your beautiful gardens! Have a great day and I will see you in the next one! Hugs! :) HI Stewart!

[@harrietjames9191]

I’m a zone 8a in central Mississippi and it is so humid here this entire week. I have just started this year doing more container gardening in my beds. I agree with planting more flowering shrubs and adding more veggies in.

[@faithhopelove8287]

New Gardner here, Zone 9, glad you all are here! I’m learning so much!🌸

[@jimbuck6974]

you are really special and can't believe all the things you would have done differently, thanks for sharing

[@DivyaVerma-fx6wt]

I would love to give my Garden more informality and like yours ...it looks so charming...than a more formal garden look . And Yes I love the gravel look as well .

[@soniadenny700]

Oh Linda please don't touch that spot with the bench. What a beautiful, romantic vignette!!! You should definitely preserve those memories...so precious! Wish I could recreate that look in my own garden 😁

[@kristinakeane7110]

I would do more evergreen plants. I love my Perennials but one part of my garden is so blah in the winter.

[@kimirvine6310]

You are not selfish, I enjoy your questions and answers. Thanks again , you make my morning coffee enjoyable 😉

[@kathyseiver8335]

It’s 81 degrees at 8:00 a.m. here in Katy TX I’ve just got started back into gardening and really enjoy hearing your wealth of knowledge.

[@lesliehardin7963]

You have the best organic/simplistic, structured garden I’ve ever seen. I don’t see it as messy or to much. I think it matches your personality perfectly. 🧚🏼🧚🏼🧚🏼

[@cinziadeluca5074]

Linda, I LOVE this video!!!! I am starting to garden only in the last few years and I redid my front yard only to end up hating it. I made the mistake of wanting to plant one of everything which resulted in a mismatched yard with little success. Now I am planning my back yard and today for the first time ever, bought three small plants of the same type, colour etc. in order the create some sort of cohesion rather than buying three different plants to plot wherever. I am so grateful for this video Linda and will try my best to keep all of your tips in mind.

[@LindaVater]

That pleases me no end!

[@michellejames5953]

Love love love this video! If you’re not a gardener then I don’t know who is! Your garden is magical and I’ve seen a lot of beautiful gardens!

[@Angela152half]

I enjoy the little wardrobe addition you have added to your videos.

[@terrylust454]

You’re the cutest. I think we’re about the same age…I think I’m a wee bit older, but who’s counting? I’m fairly new to gardening, and I’m learning so much from you. Thank you for your wonderful videos, and your cute style, which I totally relate to. I am a sculptor, and I’ve recently created a large shade garden on my property. I’m about to embark on a large Fat Lady sculpture in one of the lower gardens. If it turns out better than a bad 4th grade science project, I’ll send you a picture. Thanks again for all the fun garden videos! I’m loving them!

[@BloominIvy]

It's crazy hot in TN Linda!! We skipped Spring per usual. Your garden is very cute, I love the dappled shade throughout the main part. I agree with whomever said you should do an arbor with roses over the bench, reducing the size of the hydrangea would be a must. Maybe just pressure wash the bench too if it can take it, if not maybe a good scrub by hand and possible stain or clear coat only, but I would not remove it. I was happy to hear things you would do differently. I now convinced I'm doing most of the right things this time. I have learned as I go too, and left behind some pretty gardens in my past two house (not large ones because I was unsure that I would stay). When I sold my last house (yes, I sold, and I'm not a realtor) I had written in my house contract that I could take 3 things from the yard when we left, a simple asiatic lily that my youngest daughter gave me, a calla my oldest gave me and a wisteria, I propagated and I had formed into a topiary (knowing I was going to take it some day). It's still a topiary for now after 2 years of being relocated in our new house. My hubby built me a 10x12 glass and wood greenhouse after I lost my first one (a kit) one year prior. He feeds my passion so I feel very blessed. (edit: Whoops I shouldn't have assumed Stewart was your husband, my mistake sorry).

[@vickiejones7085]

Linda, I love your gardens. I love how you talk about rooms, it’s just like decorating the rooms inside ones home. Gardens are a reflection of the person and their creativity. You’re right as we age though we get limited on our movement. I would have put birdbaths in sooner, and a fountain. I do have rain barrels and being in Arkansas you know we have had lots and lots of rain. I love using the rain water, so good for the plants.

[@teresahaynes8757]

I think gardening is one of those things that you never seem to stop learning new ideas no matter how long you do it.

[@LindaVater]

Exactly!

[@pathall2593]

I would have been more thoughtful in planning. My garden is over 40 years old and I know so much more than I did. Also there is so much more information available for support...such as you😁

[@Edu_Kate]

And a garden is never finished.

[@cherylwright9408]

Yes looking forward to boot or garden shoe video!

[@ruthhayles4979]

Whining from South Florida, lol, I love your walk about.

[@deniseb2571]

I wish I terraced some of my property with stairs years ago. CT zone 6a. Btw I think you are definitely an experienced gardener. 🌱

[@Nancybartlettofficial]

Linda, I am in my mid 30s and starting my own garden. This video was made for me! I began planting last year during the pandemic and I’ve enjoyed it so much. We had a record breaking winter storm in February like you guys did and it destroyed a lot of my plants. I had to start all over again this spring but I don’t mind it one bit. This video was so helpful and I truly appreciate it. I am writing all of your advice down and incorporating some of your ideas in my own design. You are an inspiration and I’m so happy to have found your channel! ❤️

[@LindaVater]

Welcome Nancy! You’ll find lots of great advice in the comments here :-)

[@roxiejoyner5611]

Linda, I know we all agree that your garden is exceptionally dreamy and magical and have a hard time imagining it any other way. However, it is your garden and you should feel free to make whatever changes you and your brilliant, creative mind can dream up! I for one would LOVE to see Linda Vater in action should you decide to make some changes! Good luck with your decision! 🪴😎💕

[@franssusan]

What I like best about your gardening is the "clutter" as you call it. Seeing your yard has given me permission to plant more things and use more pots in my outdoor gardening as well as bibelot.

[@LindaVater]

Hee hee. I’m constantly trying to tame it!

[@audeysmith6675]

We're kindred souls in so many ways love your style and spirit keep inspiring me you are the best !!!

[@anndaily9872]

Thank you for giving the fore thought of a long time garden. Too late for me but I love the walk abouts in yours.

[@lydiaellisor4090]

Amazing that I have happened on your you tube...just a couple of weeks ago. I have, at 63, moved to " new" home. I am so thrilled to be able to use my plan which has evolved through years of gardening and designing. I feel we are kindred spirits because it seems we are similar...for example, I call myself a lifetime learner....I LOVE correct grammar and extensive vocabulary....you excell in them! I could go on and on. I only need to work less and garden more...soon I tell myself. Love you Linda. LydiaEllisor

[@patriciarecupero6971]

In my garden I would stop trying to grow things that I am repeatedly unsuccessful with, and add more plants that like to grow in my garden.

[@LindaVater]

Exactly!!

[@marthahoffmann8674]

Hi Linda, I hope you don't make drastic changes to your garden!!!! It's such a beautiful and peaceful place. I started my present garden in my 50's and still need to improve. When we moved to this house I planted too many Rhododendrons but forgot that there is a lot of green around us in the forest and the flowers don't last very long. Now I am trying to plant more Hydrangeas, yellow roses and Lavender for butterflies to visit, and add some color with small terracotta planters to attract the Bumble Bees. Very important to me is a place where I can rest because at 74 my body needs to pause during my gardening marathons. Therefore, since last year I started renovations in our porch because is one of my favorite places in the house. This is the place where I sit in between, have a cup of tea, quilt a bit, enjoy looking at my accomplishments and appreciate what nature really is. 👋

[@saraw8503]

Yes! This year I have FINALLY abandoned my desire for citrus.

[@Edu_Kate]

@@marthahoffmann8674 Have you noticed an increase in dragonfly population where you are? I sit in my yard, holding the hose trained on my newish garden and they swarm and dart among my plants. They are so lovely to admire. Their wings are like stained glass.

[@margierousu468]

Zone 3.North West Central Mn. I would have cut more of the trees out while they were smaller! I just have almost no sun now the Maple are huge and they shade most of our yard and my little vegetable garden. I have small pockets of sun here and there now. I am surprised that some of the flower beds still do alright but I think they would do a lot better with less shade. 30+ year old Maple trees really get huge canopies!

[@dianachavez6232]

Since finding you, I like the idea of using more flowering bushes. I wish I had used them in my garden and like you I might just redo my garden but I haven’t quite decided which to use. Also you inspired me to wear wrap pants. I searched and search for a pattern that I liked. I found a simplicity vintage pattern after several weeks and I plan to make them. You are such an inspiration.

[@patriciacasey6767]

I live in the mid-south, Bartlett, TN, right outside of Memphis and the humidity has settled in big time! Linda, if I were you, I'd keep the garden bench right where it is, thin out around it and maybe put a small pergola over it. Also, if you still dream of a greenhouse and want to remove those big boxwoods, I'd clear them all out and put a beautiful greenhouse right there. I think that would be the PERFECT spot! I so enjoy your page!

[@catherineteel4109]

I’m a late bloomer I guess lol If I could tell my younger self what I know now, I would have insisted on a larger property for a larger garden and my younger self would have said “A garden? Really? You a gardener? No way!” 😂 Thank you for sharing your garden and your fashion pieces. I love all your earrings - I’m a bit envious to be honest as I can’t wear earrings at all. Blessings to you and Stewart! 😊

[@debel829]

I am zone 9, north of Houston. Until I found you, I just let things grow as they wanted. I am 70 and have learned so much from you. The humid heat we have now and the mosquitos have driven me inside. We had so much rain a few weeks ago, I missed being able to clean up as much as I wanted. But that happens every year....I really have had no plan so if I could go back, I would make a plan, I just planted what I liked. Always love your thoughts and tours.

[@Rougebasque]

You look stunning! Your ensemble is so chic as well as your garden.You have great taste. I agree: less is more.

[@anjar.3274]

I mean your garden is not cluttered at all. In fact, I am always impressed by the elegant yet relaxed look of your garden. This garden is unique.

[@joybrezinsky7306]

It will be 117 here and in the desert tomorrow. I am struggling to keep my plants watered and living. Very little humidity which is good. Love all your green!!

[@mamabates3503]

You look lovely today! Loved the sunglass in the opening shot. Thank you for your honest reflections!

[@ksreed84]

Steaming and whining here in Raleigh NC zone 7b💕! Love your videos and at the end describing what you are wearing!💕

[@pamdrumm8341]

I love your garden and the personality there. There is so much to view and so many good ideas. I'm constantly changing things in my garden and would love a small water feature and a few small trees. Your thrifting ideas are great!

[@alanreid5429]

What about removing only the 4 globe boxwoods at the entrances of the pottager? Start gradually.

[@chelseab.1206]

Loved this video! I’ve gardened for 3 years but am considering starting over in the front yard to make a more cohesive design. Listening to experienced designers and gardeners helps me a ton! Thanks for all of your tips and wisdom🙂

[@adamthepugh]

Loved your thoughts on the continuous border and flow. I think that will help me. Very hot and humid in SW Missouri. I also enjoy how you make use of yews. I think they’re undervalued or seen as “out of fashion” here, but they can be such valuable architectural pieces.

[@lauraspagnoli7660]

Living 50miles outside of Chicago and moved from my house on a pond to anew home with only two larger trees on the property. I am slowly adding shrubs. My favorite shrubs so far are hydrangia Annabelle. The first plants that I planted I actually rescued from someone's garbage after the Holidays. Four Alberta spruce trees which I took home and planted in large pots in a protected area. I then planted them into my yard( not yet garden) the following spring. You are my inspiration!!!

[@amyhoff1501]

All last week we had hot and humid weather here in Western Massachusetts then finally back to seventies and opening windows, sooo nice .

[@deborahr9237]

Love your harem pants and esp the tip about short-sleeved shirts! I think it would be a fabulous journey for our garden community to see a new garden from concept to fruition...just sayin' Looking forward to seeing/hearing about your garden boot and footwear collection, too

[@gabrielesattler9213]

It is very courageous and brave to go over what you could haveor should have done differently.You said it all in the beginning..You learned over time.So did I.Your saying LESS SOMETIMES IS MORE..is very true .I keep that in mind whenever I intend to add something. Lately I have taken away,.and do not regret it.Your garden looks beautiful. You have put your heart and soul into it....and it shows.You should not regret anything.Things can be changed around anytime you want to, to a certain extend. I feel the love for nature in your yard...that what counts for me.😍😊

[@freedomhavenfarm]

I think this is actually one of my favorite videos from you. It gave me so much personal insight and so much to think about from a much wiser and more experienced gardener than I! 🙂 Thank you for this!

[@lindaburris4138]

I don’t think your garden is cluttered; it’s interesting. There’s something interesting everywhere you look.

[@Li-Anderson]

I agree, I replay, just to admire every inch of her garden.🤭

[@louisejames1844]

I love your approach to gardening, constantly learning. Your garden is an extension of you - beautiful and organic. I live in a little old cottage in England (built in 1680) and your advice works well for me here. Your passion is the best bit for me. Thank you!

[@maryrekar2150]

Great episode. I wish I would have had a husband who is supportive and enjoys gardening, but alas I cannot change that.

[@apark9538]

Same I would have found a way to do a greenhouse. I would have insisted to my husband to have rooms throughout the garden. And most of all I would have not had my husband sink the trampoline in the ground, because now that my children are older, and we are almost empty nesters no one used it, so it's unused space. 😬 Also we have a large covered deck, which is part of the structure of our house, and I've always loved patios instead, so I guess I would have waited to find a house with a patio.i could go on and on. I do however like the way the garden is coming together and we do have lots of fruit trees. We are cutting back on our lawn this year, so that's exciting. I liked hearing that you had things you would have liked different, because I always look at your yard as perfect! I guess no yard is perfect though. 💜

[@suepercy8390]

I always wondered why you never had a greenhouse. Ive always had ugly plastic ones so now in my new garden I started with a beautiful black framed glasshouse. It’s my happy place

[@UpTownToledo]

Toledo, Ohio. Linda, I always enjoy your content. My biggest lessons learned are 1) create generous beds in the beginning as things will grow and fill in, and 2) resist the temptation to plant things in a linear fashion.

[@LindaVater]

Yes!

[@FlowerPatchFarmhouse]

It's so hard not to try all the lovely plants when you are a plant addict. 😀 But I hear you on plant what thrives in your garden for easier maintenance and that does take trial and error. My gardens are a color explosion during the summer and I love that cottage vibe but I am working towards more evergreen for winter interest. I never bothered with winter interest before as we were covered in snow from December well through March but the past few years we have hardly gotten any snow. I also think the evergreen element will bring a bit of calm to the chaos.

[@林麗燕-f4c]

Beautiful garden.

[@jeanburgin160]

Yes, summer has arrived in Frankfort, Kentucky. If I could do something differently today in my yard gardening it would be to use more gravel pathways, I used mulch. I love your garden rooms. I want to create a Potager and I love yours. I agree more eatables should be in the Potager. I would rehome the boxwoods and start there and you can put eatables in some of the containers ... Great tips ... I just found your video today. Very enjoyable. Many thanks.

[@annakozlowski4837]

Less lawn more flowers and shrubs I like. Bigger Patio for gazing at it😍 it is in the 90's and muggy near Lake Michigan we crave rain..Thanks for all your tips💟

[@evelyngriggs8356]

I have found this reflection on the evolution of your garden spaces truly fascinating. As you were reminiscing about the functions your garden was required to undergo eg “play space for your sons” and that evolution of your entertaining space limited by the encircling trees, I was forced to consider my own choices. I am now in my eighth decade (forty years with this garden…!) and am continually regretting decisions made, or not made, about the spaces around my suburban house. Thank you, Linda, for that philosophical exercise. I love your spaces because they fulfil, or not, the functions required of them. Time changes everything.

[@LindaVater]

Enjoy your space! 😊

[@keredding]

Linda, when you do a video on your fabulous garden boots, please let us know what type of socks work best with them. Thank you for what you and Stuart do!

[@renatamanzoscruggs]

It's only in the 80's here in the Virginia mountains (zone 7A) but steamy! Lots of rain lately so I'm covered with mosquito bites, but my plants are very happy! Great tips.

[@cindyannefontenot]

Yes I’m in the south in East Houston, Texas, Zone 9a. It was a super hot she sunny one today!!

[@yvonneadrian734]

I am so happy I found this channel! Have a new house so almost a blank slate. Watching and learning love white and limes with a sprinkle of red foliage for fall and winter interest. I am in zone 7a and will need privacy because we have open black metal fencing that backs up to HOA open space. Learning lots thanks 😊

[@YalisCommunity]

Thanks for sharing so many great tips and advice! I love that you are thinking of adding more edibles into your landscaping! Yeiii! Peach trees can be bought in a smaller variety and they give lots of fruits very quickly compared to other trees, also blueberries are great for containers, shrubs, borders, you name it and they give you lots of fruits, hardy hibiscus plants are lovely perennial and you get to enjoy them in teas and so much more. Society garlic is one of my ultimate favorites and it also repels insects naturally, lots of kales, salvia, cabbage and you can add vines to your walls like blackberry or hairless kiwi. You are awesome and have done an incredible job at your garden. Thanks for sharing!

[@deborahmac1997]

Warm and damp in the Upstate of SC too. I enjoyed this tremendously. I'm calling this a masterclass. I'm getting ready to redo my small front yard. Can't say how many plantings in my own garden were eye candy, or became much to large for the space allotted. Some were just more maintenance that I wanted to give. I felt particularly aligned with more of the same when chosing plants and getting g those foundation evergreens decided on. Thank you so much 🤗 ❣⁸

[@jordanyeager9220]

I would've planted evergreens before my annuals and perennials. -Milton Florida.

[@dlsdyer9071]

I would have not planted my evergreen shrubs/cover, LOL. They are now thick, woody, and have huge dead sections.

[@judyraffl6717]

Hi Linda I am in zone 7B in Gloucester Va. I had the opportunity to do the question you asked. We moved to a new house from Alexandria, Va to lower VA Gloucester. In my new garden, now the 2nd summer, I have a bigger veggie garden and am planting mostly native plants on a forested acre lot. I went from an English garden look at my old house to more gardening for me and wildlife at my new house. The humidity started for us two weeks ago along with higher heat, yeah!