Weekly Garden Tour / Creating New Garden Rooms, Dahlia Blooms & Butterflies, Drainage Problems

[@NorthlawnFlowerFarmandGardens]

On Garden Style - amzn.to/3Z8Icb3

[@gwenwilliams2429]

I really love the grass even though it’s not perfect it has a very soothing effect.

[@julieculshaw4031]

I think green grass (even poor grass) looks better than gravel. It is softer and easier on the eyes.

[@annaz9080]

The butterfly on the grass is your answer - keep the grass.

[@wileatagore5938]

Keep the grass, in my option, it enhances the garden and doesn’t take away. So pleasing and relaxing!

[@jordanafortunato3158]

Keep the grass! Grace enjoys the cool earth below the cool clover and like the milkweed surprise the clover is an added food source. Grace loves to hang out in front of the fountain and the grass is more welcoming than the gravel.

[@cindybohl9593]

I would keep the grass. It looks so cool, and green and beautiful…..even with the few bare spots. Honestly I think the gravel would take away from your garden look. Plus you would be digging it out of your flower beds. Your garden is beautiful just as it is. Your flower arrangement is GORGEOUS !

[@modelno2004]

Keep the grass/clover! 1) it’s beautiful and ties in with the space 2) you can walk barefoot on it 3) you already have designated gravel areas, so it’s just a nice dilleniatieon between spaces. 4) watching Grace trot through the grassy walkway always brings me joy!

[@annettehoffa4024]

Regarding your grass/clover issue, I vote continue the flag stones and fill in the bonds with moss, thumb or other low growing ground cover. For me, a stone pathway is too harsh and the green growing vegetation is so soothing and refreshing.

[@hollyashton7009]

I like this idea too, as you have gravel by the book nook and the other brick lined gravel path. I’d just seed more clover & add more flagstone stepping stones.

[@CityMouseWholesale]

Yep - 100% agree

[@belwynne1386]

Could you replicate the pavers and creeping thyme(?) you used in front of the library?

[@Janet-bx4kf]

Great ideas! 0:03 Live with the gravel you have for a while. Be sure you love it before adding more. I know they use it a lot in British gardens and it looks gorgeous there. I’ve debated about installing, but worried that it would be tougher to fix if I changed my mind.

[@heidigresh2743]

The gravel feels too grey. I like the suggestion of the larger stone pavers.

[@kimfox5186]

Definitely keep the grass/clover. You would be permanently bothered with weeds growing through the gravel. OK, so your path isn't uniform, why should it be ? It's a family space, and it's stunning 😍

[@leslieandrew3918]

Definitely keep the grass it’s so beautiful . It adds a freshness and makes u think u just want to take your shoes off and walk through it

[@carmelitarhodes3372]

Beautiful garden. Grace is so sweet

[@cogasawara1]

“We have a lifetime to get there” - such wonderful words!

[@revivalnowgirl]

Love the grass path soft and beautiful. Gravel is hard and unappealing

[@alicesiebecker9835]

Love the grass path, so green and calming.

[@susanwhite1641]

Please keep the grass. Grace loves running along to see you 🌿

[@KarenDole-i1f]

I love the green pathway. So relaxing. I'm constantly adding gravel and fighting weeds and grass sprouts. What ever you choose will be beautiful as we walk with you through your ever changing and inspiring garden.

[@lisahowell3468]

As I’m sitting here watching your video, I thought how the butterfly’s and birds must think your garden is Eden! It is just so spectacular! So lush and full!!! And Grace is just so sweet, wanting to lead the way through the garden, with her sweet mama! Love everything you have done!!! Thanks for sharing! Happy Labor Day!😊❤❤❤

[@bethmartof1262]

The bees will appreciate the grass/clover.😊

[@Sweetiepie032510]

Keep the grass , it looks great ! Love the gravel book nook private patio area ! Grace is the Cutest !

[@kareharpies]

I think the skinny path looks better with grass. I don't know how to explain it but it complements the whole of the garden design, whereas gravel makes the path more obvious (HERES THE ROAD) and the lack of green makes it less restful to the eye. I think gravel looks nice I'm just not sure in your case it's the best look. Sidenote: if you have a bunny problem they will be more tempted to eat your plants should you remove the clover path.

[@donnaterrell938]

I would keep the grass for Gracie, also like the way it looks...an inviting pathway.

[@alegria1883]

Yes, keep the grass❤

[@heatherw.2751]

I personally love grass! Could you install a French drain under it? Ultimately, it’s your property and you need to do what makes you happy but there’s just something about the grass pathway that is somehow soothing to the eye. The gravel makes it look stark to me.

[@carolynlingor]

I agree with adding more flagstone through the problem area and surround with a green groundcover. Gravel gives a dry, hot look to a garden as opposed to the cool, peaceful look you have now with the grass.

[@cindiblazer8621]

I like the grass. The clover looks good. Just do what you want.

[@KimsCountryCorner]

I prefer the grass :) Plus I would think Grace would prefer grass :) I find the grass more soothing, calming, and relaxing, even if it's not "perfect". I understand the gravel for the room but I would keep the grass pathway. That arrangement was absolutely beautiful, even "going over". Thanks for sharing. Kim

[@TheAdaFly]

Wow you have really achieved a lot in the garden this year! ❤ I would keep the grass and clover, it does not look bad at all to me ❤

[@kibibishaw1194]

The raised beds surrounding the book nook looks perfect as is, whether you pull them up for hydrangeas or leave them it’s a brilliant concept! Please keep the clover-path. It’s lush looking and draws us into your slice of heaven here on earth! Thank you always for sharing!

[@dawny.9101]

We truly appreciate YOU, Danielle! You teach and inspire us in each and every video. Heartfelt thanks for sharing your garden with us all! 🩷 Dawn

[@debrabray8855]

My experience with gravel is that the weed maintenance is overburdensome. Weed killer might drift or wash into your beautiful flowerbeds. I think the grass and clover looks just fine.

[@raulsmegobarranco9831]

Keep the grass. Grace loves it. The wildlife too!

[@tinalee7650]

Your garden is just MAGICAL!

[@rosemarybushea3447]

Your garden is so lovely and the memories of your grandmother so sweet! What a delight to see the Monarch! You are blessed.

[@Tracymw99]

Seeing the apples hanging makes thw whole view so perfect

[@ralugator]

No wonder you create such beautiful and serene spaces. You are so tenderhearted 🤗The butterflies really make it all worth it.

[@kerricoleman8524]

Keep the grass is my vote. I love it how it presents. Grass or clover. 🍀 it all looks like it belongs there.

[@sallythompson2635]

Love you fountain and the peacefulness of your garden

[@mygardeninbloom]

Oh my goodness, that monarch on your dahlia was breathtaking. 🌺

[@juanarosone8115]

Keep the grass and add more of the stepping stones.❤️

[@marionbetham5017]

Great video as usual. Thanks for sharing. I think you should keep the grass, and I think Grace would prefer grass too. I imagine she uses the grass pathway the most :)

[@janeclancey8044]

Your garden rooms are beautiful! You have accomplished everything with care and thoughtful consideration for not only your family, but Grace as well. Danielle, you have a second sense in arranging a floral bouquet or a garden room. Your garden library is so perfect and the addition of the book nook made it even more accommodating to family and friends. Follow your heart and it will be the perfect choice.

[@2wheelsforever174]

The grass/ clover is lovely! Transition to even more clover if needed… perhaps flagstone plus clover? Moss may be too fragile for dogs, I have flagstone rocks and moss and as long as dogs stay in the stones it’s fine, but their paws rip up moss… or at least the type of moss I have.

[@JenniferCellucci-z7x]

Such a treat to stroll through your garden today! I almost cried right along with you at the site of that butterfly. I am in zone 7A and will be planting milkweed next season. Monarchs were plentiful in my former south Florida garden. I hope to entice them up north! May I suggest red shale landscape stone? In lieu of gray, the red would soften the look of the path and play off of the colors in the garden. Also, so much of our PA/DE area is red clay. The red stone would be a nod to the native landscape.

[@JenniferCellucci-z7x]

You could line the path with grey stone to maintain the grey connection to the book nook.

[@QueenAnnesLace13]

Any hopes of diverting the water if it's an issue for you? I feel the gravel detracts from the garden and Grace so loves running up and down the path. The grass does not have to look perfect at all, I find it beautiful and peaceful.

[@minawanders]

Green pathway looks better

[@SusanHorn-n3y]

🥰The plans, the Sharing Grace dahlias, the chrysalis, the monarch, all so beautiful.

[@susanshardlow1881]

I have three dogs here in the UK. I find moss is the best option in my lawn as it absorbs the water which we have had a lot of during August.

[@marymurphy4825]

Hi Danielle, when you were just talking about your grandmother and how you two used to watch the monarch butterflies hatch in the large jars then one just happened to be right in front of you was awesome! a beautiful sign she is always with you. You two had a special close bond and I can tell you miss her and think of her often. I am looking forward to getting the Martha Miller dahlia seeds next year. 😍

[@health.bites.5615]

How precious to have so many monarchs in the garden!!!

[@bonniemiller9197]

Where I used to live we had frequent rainbows and monarch's. I always believed they were special hugs from my Jesus.

[@TheCornishCottageGarden-bs5lf]

Your garden is absolutely gorgeous! 😊

[@kelliwebb2870]

Keep the grass! Stones are too harsh! Grass is so calming!

[@shirleynall9048]

I would keep the grass if possible. Not a fan of gravel paths. Sometimes you can’t manage but if possible the grass path is beautiful

[@commonlaw5400]

Danielle, Talk to a hardscape professional about the installation of drain boxes at your problem areas. Southern York County Pennsylvania is predominantly hard pack clay mixed with rock. I had two installed. They were about $300.00 each

[@janc8763]

I too love the green grass and clover. Adding a few more stones in the troublesome spot might do the trick. Even though I’m in hot and dry zone 9b California, I always learn and get ideas from your channel.

[@stevedimartino683]

My compliments to you, you have a gorgeous garden. 👍👏🌹

[@TruthSeekerHuman-je5pd]

God of Bible's creation is soooo lovely. Sooo thankful to Jesus for nature's beauty.

[@daygirl2659]

I think that Monarch is a newly emerged one.. I have lots of them in my garden here in SoCal 10a. Your garden is glorious Danielle💚🌻

[@tahoe13868]

What a stunning before and after picture of your garden!! What a great eye you have. As for changing out the grass/clover I would definitely keep it! I love the green pathway; maybe just extend the flagstone all the way, that would be lovely. My experience with gravel walkways is that I'm constantly having to add gravel (where does it go?!?) and my 3 yellow labs do not like walking on it. In addition, I am always fighting weeds and grass sprouts though it which is so unsightly and it's very hard to keep the edges tidy. As Grace runs through it, it will spray up and land outside the walkway and then you'll find yourself raking the gravel back into place all the time. Not worth it.

[@NorthlawnFlowerFarmandGardens]

I really appreciate your advice friend! Sending you a virtual thank you bouquet!

[@tammy6816]

At 11:30 I think that was your grandmother putting in her vote to keep the grass ❤

[@victoria-louisevalois1323]

Just to share a thought with you about a gravel walkway : plants will grow in the gravel very well. They love gravel! Here in maritime R.I., we either have to use a gas-fired weeder or hand weed them out. It doesn't matter if you pre -line with fabric or plastic. Your walkway with the stones down the center looks nice and is probably going to be easier than gravel to maintain. Good luck with whatever you decide. Your garden is evolving beautifully. (V.) 👋🍀🏵🦋

[@DeAnne9743]

Beautiful! You're so lucky to have rain. I'm calling a wrap on this growing season. I'm tired of watering. 🤑The leaves are turning brown and falling. I'm pulling all the annuals. I've never seen it this dry and I'm old. It's really sad. Hopefully everything comes back next year.😢Columbus ohio

[@NorthlawnFlowerFarmandGardens]

I’m so sorry friend! I wish I could send you some rain!

[@laurieh9388]

Congratulations with the Monarchs!! Way to go with that! Your garden is beautiful!

[@karenholt9744]

I have monarchs; now I'll look for the chrysalis too! My guess is that monarch was more of a newbie because the ones I observe are either fluttering around together in the air or more purposefully going after nectar. Your garden has evolved with more and more elegance. I like the grass better I also think you're so blessed to have such a graceful and productive apple tree. McIntosh is my favorite eating apple.

[@Gigi-fv9ky]

I really think you should keep the grass. Perhaps over seed it with a different kind that might be more tolerant for the issues. But definitely keep grass. I think the green grass is needed not only to set off the flowers, but also for resting place for the eyes. Plus it’s a lot nicer for Grace than gravel or other kinds of stone.

[@juliannaburgess9177]

Gardens are beautiful!!! Years ago (back in 2003/4) after we moved into our new house I placed quality weed guard paper and pine back pieces. I also included an edging of river rocks to keep everything in the bed and be part of the dry creek theme that was already there. It wasn't till last year that I noticed the start of the break down of the chips. For the most part weeds don't grow there. Was a win win for me, now that I'm 23 yrs older.❤ Your videos. Butterflies! How special, your garden is able to support life.

[@LB-pt2dd]

The reading nook is such a lovely idea! As for the grass and clover, I would keep it, but place equally sized stepping stones or slabs along the walkway. I would also make them a little darker in color.

[@rockhillflowerfarm]

Danielle, I love the way you have designed your garden!!! I was wondering about having some type of evergreen, maybe something conical to contrast with the form of the hydrangeas, flanking the entrance to the hidden garden room. In the winter, you would still have some of the mystery and it would hide, at least slightly, the chairs from view. Also, it would make a nice frame for both sides of the garden library. I have been planting arborvitae at the entrances to most of my paths. I have also used inkberry, boxwood, and yew to flank each side of the path. It has made a world of difference for the winter garden! I know whatever you decide it will be amazing! Thanks for your amazing videos!

[@hettiestroebel4952]

Beautiful garden💚 I recommend to bring the stone you have near the library all the way in place of the clover. That will create unity.

[@marymurphy4825]

Hi Danielle, I will make a suggestion on the grass pathway. I would use the same stone you used on the deck area on the grass pathway that leads you right to the stone deck and then where you have the gravel in the book nook I would continue the same stone instead of the gravel, I think it would make it all come together nicely especially in the book nook, it makes it seem less disjointed. Thanks for the book recommendation and sharing your beautiful flower arrangement and gardens with us. lol Grace and her pickle was adorable! 😍

[@cherylwhitesell2522]

The butterfly is a sign to keep the grass!! Maybe, but seriously I think its natural looking and comfy for Grace!!

[@mkhred01]

Gorgeous! Please keep the grass.

[@amyjones2490]

Lots of people are saying their dahlia are blowing open quicker than usual this year. I’ve found that gravel is great for seeding of weeds. At least in my garden. I much prefer wood chips, but each garden is different.

[@janrivers2924]

Have you thought about placing large, wide flagstone pavers along the pathway? 3 or 4 feet wide with thyme or foot-path friendly ground cover in between. Space the pavers 10 inches apart or more. That way you'll have less lawn to deal with there. Although easier to maintain, pebbles along that pathway would look hot and harsh to me. But just my humble opinion. Garden looks lovely!!

[@reginariedel9261]

Lovely view of your paradise! So peaceful and the grass path is a wonderful feeling without the crunch of walking on gravel. Of course it’s what you feel the best solution is. The suggestion of planting a better ground cover is an option. So glad I found you

[@madpharmtech]

I love the clover path and it keeps the flow to the next room.

[@carolynvenema2264]

Keep the grass, & let it be "imperfect"..the green gives eyes a place to rest & refresh.

[@LifeHomeandGardenwithAnaRica]

I love your garden landscape! the book nook, the setting area are so inviting.

[@ruthannecoro6198]

You need bouquets full of your beautiful flowers on the book nook tables ❤😊

[@gardentherapySOS]

From someone who can't grow grass in paths without extensive water lines, I envy anyone who has it. I love the cooling effect and coziness of grass. Having said that, if gravel is more practical, then that is a better option. I have used both pea and chip gravel and prefer the chip, as it locks in place better. The pea gravel is "softer" with it's round edges but it moves too much and is hard to walk on. I went with a blue toned gravel to help bring down the temperature of the landscape and am happy with the decision. Either way, your space is beautiful!

[@jenniferkessener1111]

Your garden always looks so inviting. I think the grass adds to that. Can you make another section of stepping stones like you have in the troubled spot? Grace is socute!

[@patternandcraft]

I have an area that used to be a lawn but mostly was actually weeds and mud due to being on the shady north side of the house and not well draining- a couple years ago we had it re-graded and put down landscaping fabric and gravel with a flagstone path through the gravel and I have no regrets! It looks clean and beautiful! We edged the beds with large rocks so there’s a barrier between the dirt and mulch of the planting beds and the gravel, that works well. It can get kinda weedy in the spring because airborne weed seeds like germinating in gravel, but I just hand pull them and it stays under control- the roots don’t have much to anchor into so they come out easily. Some say don’t use landscaping cloth but we did that so no grass would grow up through the gravel. Do blow the leaves off the gravel so they don’t decompose there and make soil in the gravel.

[@ruthannecoro6198]

I was heading to my garden, but then your video popped up….❤😊

[@Ginmaree]

Your garden is so beautiful! I really like the grass, I think it gives a softness and even more whimsy to your path, and helps further visually separate the book nook area as its own established garden room. From an ecological and climate perspective too, having the grass will help with the water run off absorpbtion from your driveway and general cooling in hot weather.

[@newt52864]

Thanks for sharing ... hey Grace 🥰

[@mariale7821]

Hello Danielle, I had a similar issue in my garden having 2 dogs and a very tough area to manage grass. I converted the area to gravel and a couple concrete stepping stones. I love it, and now I’m only managing grass where it really thrives in my property. Even though I used landscape fabric under the gravel, I still get a couple weeds that pop up, but nothing that is unmanageable. Good luck in making your decision. You have to be happy!

[@danmartin9558]

Black beauty tall fescue grass works well in high traffic areas also if you install geo cell and fill with soil and plant grass may help. Creeping thyme would give appearance of stream when in flower which I think would be nice with flag stone stepping stones.

[@MarinaDesantis-k2o]

That library of yours is treasure of the garden. Love from Rome❤

[@tullysoulliere8103]

The green , green grass of home! we took out some grass and kept a little in the back yard as our yard is small and we live in a very drought ridden part of Nor Cal. But our grass is imperfect and yet i love the coolness of nestling my bare feet in it just for a bit of grounding .Takes me back to my childhood yard! Your doggy probably feels something like that! lol. I think your heart would love to keep it and you would miss the dewy lawn and fresh mowed smells. Plus your gravel would get weeds in no matter how much you try for that not to happen and you wont be likely to use any kind of weed killer because of Grace, We have to use weed killer in some of our front rocked in front yard and it gets very hot around rocks and may affect your gardebn pathway in a not so helpful way Your garden is so soothing and beautiful the vey way it is right now, thanks for the lovely share.

[@travsgardenstravshauntedya1998]

Beautiful as always.. there's something about the September Garden..I said Oh Yess when you shiwed the walkway with gravel! love it. Your gardens inspire me! 😍

[@DigginandDoin]

I had my first monarch butterfly sighting in my garden this year as well and it is very much like you described. It makes all the hard work of getting your garden the way you wanted it so worth the effort.

[@wileatagore5938]

I vote for grass as well. It is restful and soothing.

[@VickiesGardenEvolution]

I think the gravel path leading up to the gravel patio in front of the book nook will look perfect.

[@najwaseiya]

Awesome, beautiful sharing♥♥♥♥🌼🌼

[@moniquegodon5712]

Hi Danielle. I agree with the majority. Your green path is so soft and inviting. Gravel seems too harsh for me. I love the way your flagstone peeks through the grass/clover giving it a lush look. Bye!

[@shareenstone6673]

What a joy it is to share the joy you have in your garden

[@MsTracex]

Hi Danielle. Im such a big fan and have recently started my own perenial garden this last 2 months because your videos inspire me so so much. So thank you. My opinion with your greass walk way is that it looks great the way it is !!! I feel like maybe it bothers you more than it does us viewers. I have a gravel drive way and we're always, always pulling weeds out of it !!!! I'm voting for leaving the grass the way it is now !!! PS Loved seeing and hearing about your chrysalis' and your Monarch butterflies !!! It certainly does warm the heart !!!🦋

[@rhondaschenk5727]

Your gardens are so, so beautiful. Thank you for sharing with us!

[@angelaw7070]

Love all your vidoes!! We put down gravel in am area that was previously grass and it's been a nightmare. We put down a barrier and still have grass growing through the gravel. I live in 7a in a humid climate as well. I had thought about taking up thr gravel and replacing it with clover or something that doesn't have to be mowed. That might be a good alternative for you.

[@NorthlawnFlowerFarmandGardens]

Thank you so much for this helpful information ❤️

[@ande4003]

Thank you so much for sharing. You are such an inspiration! I would vote to keep the grass/clover. Blessings!