As I store away plant memories for the winter, there were a bunch that put a smile on my face this summer. In the interest of not forgetting what they were and to share my delights, allow me to rave about the highlights of 2022.

Over the past decade, small deciduous shrubs have earned a special place in my garden and my heart. What began as an experiment to add more structure and reduce weeding has led me to an increased appreciation of their merits. Flowers, foliage and texture, they’ve got it all going on - especially those that go out with a bang in the fall.

The quest for the right plant, plotting the next project and even bemoaning my garden failures has kept me going in a year without much good news. Here's the best of 2020 in a nutshell.

I’ve gained a new appreciation for several shrubs that remain unfazed by drought. Check out three stalwart beauties that can take just about anything you throw at them.

Want to add a little bling in your garden? There's nothing like a blast of gold foliage to liven things up. Adding beauty doesn't mean more work - it's all about choosing bulletproof plants that do the job. Check out my 10 favorites.  

Who knew snow was going to hit so early? In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'm giving thanks to some of the plants that entertained me all summer.  Here's my ode to a few I want to include in next years garden.

What can you do when you make planting bloopers like this? Read on to find out how I turned my mistake into a masterpiece. 

Berrying trees and shrubs pump up excitement in a fall garden. But what if you don't have a lot of space for large trees or shrubs?   Read about some that are suitable for a small garden. 

If you're looking for a boxwood you don't have to baby, read about how admirably Buxus sempervirens 'North Star' performs under adverse conditions.

If you're like me, you probably have a bunch of gardening books that you never read. Here's a very useful one that everyone should have!

Gold foliaged conifers are just the thing in winter when you need some brightening up in your garden. Here's one tough little gem that you should try.