Ever since I became a homeowner more than a decade ago, perennial gardening has brought so much joy and I’ve realized it scratches an itch. I love a cozy and beautiful home, but also want to live simply and enjoy creativity on a budget. Flowers and greenery from my own yard provides just the “get my hands dirty” therapeutic ‘scratch’ I need.

South of the James Farmers Market Treasures

The color and texture nature adds to a space is cheerful + sculptural. And since I don’t have every variety in my yard, supporting local growers is another opportunity to shop small and share the joy. Picking up bouquets at the farmers market, buying seedlings and bouquets from my neighborhood flower farmer, Amanda from Hummingbird Gardens, and supporting River City Flower Exchange = joy spreading all around.

Dried blooms from Hummingbird Gardens in a vase by local artist Carved in Mud

Gardening offers:

Less clutter - I can switch up decor that I don’t have to store
Creativity…with arrangements, vessels, rooms to display in
Gifts! Flowers make lovely and meaningful gifts….for yourself, your mom, your neighbors, your kids teachers, your bestie!
Perfect seasonal holiday decor - Easter, Mother’s Day, birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas - check!
Sustainability - You can compost it when the blooms are finished…no waste decor!
Supporting Local - buy seeds, seedlings and blooms from nearby growers
The gift that keeps on giving….I often include new perennials + bulbs on my wish lists to keep me garden growing
Memory making with your kiddos - digging in the dirt, cutting blooms, pressing them for arts and crafts, and decorating for celebrations. Plus your heart smiles when they deliver a handful of stemless blooms - “I picked these for you, mom”.
A form of therapy - ha! Digging in the dirt slows us down and gives us space to breath.