Blog

When it comes to landscaping, the choices for steps are as varied as the gardens they lead to. From the rustic charm of natural stone steps to the modern allure of concrete, each option offers its own unique blend of functionality and style. Whether you’re looking for a seamless transition from your porch to your …Read more About “Ask a Designer: Step Options in Landscaping”

When it comes to transforming your outdoor space, the terms “hardscaping” and “softscaping” are often used interchangeably. However, these two elements play distinct roles in creating a harmonious outdoor environment. Hardscaping Hardscaping refers to the non-living, structural elements of an outdoor space. This includes features such as patios, walkways, retaining walls, decks, and any other …Read more About “The Advantages of Designing Hardscaping and Softscaping Together”

‘Down the Garden Path’ Podcast Jan Johnsen is a landscape designer particularly interested in the effect of gardens upon our wellbeing. Trained in landscape architecture and professional horticulture, Johnsen is the author of “Heaven is a Garden and ‘The Spirit of Stone’ (St Lynn’s Press, 2017).  In this episode of Down the Garden Path we …Read more About “The Spirit of Stone: Jan Johnsen”

‘DOWN THE GARDEN PATH’ RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST Down the Garden path’s topic this week is Planning your Landscape Projects. Matthew and I discuss the importance of planning your garden and landscape designs. How planning can save you time and money. We start by discussing what is going on in our gardens and checking in …Read more About “The Importance of Planning Your Landscape”

Looking Into Your Local Horticultural Societies   Local Horticultural Society’s and Garden clubs and their volunteers play a crucial role in many communities large and small and their work is often unrealized.  I have written about how my membership in my local Horticultural Society led me to a career that I love in the past but …Read more About “Looking Into Your Local Horticultural Society”

“DOWN THE GARDEN PATH” RADIO SHOW… Happy New Year and welcome to 2017 and the first episode of Down the Garden Path for the year. Once again Matthew Dressing joins me as co-host as we discuss our favorite Garden Trends for 2017. We also chat about our own garden plans for this year. Listen in …Read more About “Matthew Dressing & Joanne Shaw, Garden Trends of 2017”

  “DOWN THE GARDEN PATH” RADIO SHOW… On this special episode celebrating 2 years of Down the Garden Path Radio Show, I am interviewed by guest host and horticulturalist, Matthew Dressing. We talk about my background, Landscape Design and more. Tune in to learn more about me and my journey in the garden and landscape …Read more About “Joanne Shaw, 2 Year Anniversary DTGP Episode”

Welcome to October. I think it is my favorite gardening month. So much to do and so much better temperatures to do it in! I have realized many people gave up on their gardens because of this past hot and dry summer, I have to confess I am also one of those people. I realized …Read more About “Fall Landscape Project”

“DOWN THE GARDEN PATH” RADIO SHOW… Cauleen Viscoff from Lush Gardens joined me live to talk all about Roses. We discuss Winter protection tips and tricks for all types of roses including climbing roses. Cauleen shared some of her favorites and her suggestions for planting those late season specials you may have just picked up.

“DOWN THE GARDEN PATH” RADIO SHOW… This week is Part two of my conversation with highly regarded landscape designer, author and teacher with a passion for plants and beautiful gardens, Jan Johnsen. In this episode we explore many of the ancient traditions Jan writes about in her book, Heaven is a Garden- Designing Serene Outdoor Spaces for Inspiration …Read more About “Jan Johnsen, Heaven is a Garden Part II”