Mulch is one of the unsung heroes of the garden. It suppresses weeds, retains moisture, keeps roots cool in summer, and adds organic matter to your soil. But not all mulch is created equal—and how you use it matters just as much as what you use. Let’s dig into the good, the bad, and the beautiful world of mulch.

Walk into almost any garden center, and you’ll see rolls of “weed barrier” cloth or black plastic sold as foolproof solutions for a weed-free garden. The pitch is tempting: lay it down, cover it with mulch or gravel, and weeds will magically disappear. But weed cloth and black plastic don’t live up to the promise. In fact, they often make things worse—and come with hidden environmental costs.

If you’ve planted a new perennial garden, you might be familiar with this frustrating in-between phase: Young perennials are settling in, but the space between them is wide open—and weeds are more than happy to move in.

This is exactly where annuals earn their keep. They’re not just pretty placeholders—they’re your most effective, low-maintenance strategy for suppressing weeds while your garden matures.

When we hear the word organic, most of us think safe, natural, eco-friendly. And when it comes to gardening, many people reach for organic pesticides and herbicides assuming they’re gentle alternatives to their synthetic counterparts.

But here’s the truth: organic doesn’t always mean harmless.

Let’s dig into why that is—and explore smarter, safer ways to manage pests that are better for your plants, your health, and the planet.

This No Mow May, let your lawn rest—but also imagine what it could become. Whether you opt for native sedges, flowering thyme, or prairie grasses, each square foot you replace helps build a more resilient and biodiverse landscape.

If you’re seeking quality New Jersey native plants and supporting local pollinators, you need to check out My Backyard at Nectars in Titusville, NJ. Open Wednesday through Sunday, this place is more than just a nursery—it’s a friendly, welcoming spot where you can find amazing plants (many seed grown!), get expert advice, and learn all about creating a thriving native garden.

New Jersey native ground covers not only add seasonal beauty but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable landscape. By planting species adapted to New Jersey’s climate, you create resilient plant communities that require less maintenance, reduce the need for mulch, fertilizers and pesticides, and support local wildlife.

When we think of pollinators, butterflies and bees usually steal the spotlight. But New Jersey’s native moths are just as essential to our local ecosystems. These nighttime visitors play a crucial role in pollination, provide a food source for birds and other wildlife, and bring a quiet beauty to the garden that’s often overlooked. Let’s explore why these creatures deserve more attention and which plants will invite them into your landscape.

By designing a hummingbird-friendly garden that supports all aspects of their lifecycle, you create not just a feeding station but a sanctuary. With native flowers, safe water, abundant insects, and nesting materials, your North Jersey garden can become a thriving habitat that ensures these remarkable birds return year after year.

By making small, thoughtful changes in our gardens, we can create thriving habitats for northern New Jersey’s native bees. Whether by planting native flowers, providing nesting sites, or reducing chemical use, every effort contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Plus, a garden buzzing with bees is a garden teeming with life, beauty, and productivity!

Butterflies bring beauty and movement to the garden, but their presence isn’t just about aesthetics—they are vital pollinators and an integral part of the ecosystem. If you want to attract butterflies, it’s essential to provide for their entire lifecycle, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult butterfly. This means including host plants for their larvae, nectar-rich flowers for adults, and sheltering plants for pupation.

If you want to turn your garden into a sanctuary for birds, the best way to do it is by planting native species that provide food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. Native plants have evolved alongside local bird species, making them the most beneficial choices for supporting our feathered friends.

Perennial planters are a fantastic way to bring long-lasting beauty to decks, patios, and small garden spaces in New Jersey. Unlike annual-filled containers that require seasonal replanting, perennial-based planters offer year-round interest, greater sustainability, and vital habitat for pollinators. To maximize success, it's essential to select the right plants, to choose durable containers, and to maintain them properly.

In North Jersey, gardeners are no strangers to unpredictable weather. Between summer droughts, temporary water restrictions, and fluctuating temperatures, maintaining a thriving landscape can be a challenge. The key to a resilient garden lies in selecting plants that can handle these extremes without excessive watering or intervention.

Designing a garden can be an exciting yet overwhelming process, especially with the multitude of styles to choose from. Each garden style has unique characteristics, benefits, and challenges. For residents in North Jersey, it’s crucial to consider the local climate, soil, and native plants when planning a garden. Here, we’ll explore several popular garden styles, their pros and cons, and suggest native plants that thrive in our region.

Pruning is a fundamental gardening practice that ensures the health, beauty, and productivity of your plants. Whether you're shaping a hedge, encouraging more blooms, or removing deadwood, proper pruning techniques are essential for success. In this guide, we’ll explore the when, what, how, and why of pruning, along with tips for choosing tools and finding visual inspiration.

If you’ve spent time nurturing your New Jersey garden, only to find your efforts thwarted by mischievous squirrels, you’re not alone. These agile rodents can wreak havoc, digging up bulbs, raiding bird feeders, and chewing on fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to deter squirrels without harming them.

As a professional garden designer based in North Jersey, having the right tools is non-negotiable. Tools are an extension of your hands, and their quality can make or break your gardening experience. Here are some of my favorite tools and maintenance tips to keep them in top shape. For a more extensive list of recommended tools, visit my Amazon wishlist on my learning page.

If you’re looking for an efficient way to start NJ native seeds indoors, consider using an AeroGarden. It’s a great tool for kickstarting your gardening journey, even for seeds that require special preparation like cold stratification. Learn how you can get started, with tips for transplanting and growing your plants outdoors.

If you’re looking to enhance your garden with a plant that’s as functional as it is beautiful, Panicum virgatum, commonly known as switchgrass, deserves a spot on your list. This versatile native grass thrives in Denville and throughout Morris County, making it a perfect addition to New Jersey landscapes focused on sustainability and ecological impact.