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Join columnist and garden designer Mary Stone in sharing Dilemmas, Delights, & Discoveries in the Garden of Life.
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A walk along the Paulinskill Valley Trail leads Mary Stone down a memory trail of beloved dogs, changing paths, and how we adapt through seasons. Memories of Sara—a tennis-ball-loving golden retriever who learned to play differently after two surgeries—lead back to the screen porch and a magnificent garden planted by Mother Nature. We explore Jewelweed with exploding seeds and White Snakeroot that nourishes pollinators but has a toxic history. Plus sweeping colonies of Hay-scented Fern turning toward autumn yellow. Then the memory trail returns to Miss Ellie Mae and Jolee, whose journey from a fearful rescue dog to a confident walking companion offers another lesson: sometimes a frightening road becomes familiar, and eventually we discover there is more than one way to go. Different dogs. Different walks. Different chapters of a life. And still, the Garden of Life grows. 🌿🐾 Link to the Companion Post: A Memory Trail Through Nature’s Fall Palette Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 Related Stories & Podcasts: 🐾 Miss Ellie Mae — My Unexpected Furry Messenger - Blog Post Ellie's story is also featured in Episode 20 , along with Father John's Memorial Garden. 🐾 Jolee — Merry Season of Love Over Fear - Blog Post Jolee's early journey from fear toward trust is featured in Episode 37 . 🌿 Last week's story — Ep 268: Finding Our Way Again Along the Paulins Kill More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A trail closure sends Mary Stone and her rescue dog, Jolee, in another direction for a restful walk along the Paulinskill Valley Trail, where late-summer wildflowers, remnants of railroad history, and the reestablished Paulins Kill River offer a reflection on change and restoration. Along the way, an old mile marker brings a profound, spirited lift. And memories of the former Paulina Dam, the river, surrounding landscape, and wildlife finding their way again remind us of life's transitions. Sometimes a familiar path is closed, and all we can do is turn in another direction and keep walking to find our way again. Enjoy the Comanion Post: Finding Our Way Again Along the Paulins Kill Related Stories & Episodes: Ep 267 A Not-So-Peachy Gel Dilemma A Not-So-Peachy Gel Dilemma – Blog Post Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 Related Posts and Podcasts: Preservation of the Paulins Kill River – Blog Post Ep 185. Preservation of the Paulins Kill - Overcoming Hardships Helpful Links: About the Paulina Dam Design/Removal Restoring the Paulins Kill River More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
From sweet peas and peaches as terms of endearment to squirrels stealing the only peach on the tree, Mary Stone starts this week's garden chat on a playful note. Then a jelly-like peach-tree dilemma leads to gummosis, Cytospora canker, peach scab, and how stress and wounds can leave trees vulnerable to disease. Mary revisits a similar weeping cherry dilemma and what trees can teach us about looking beneath the surface—where old wounds and stresses may affect what's trying to grow aboveground. Sometimes, despite all our careful tending, the squirrel gets the peach. But there will be other seasons and other sweetness still to come. The same is true in our own Garden of Life. Enjoy the Companion Blog Post: A Not-So-Peachy Gel Dilemma Related Stories & Episodes: Ep 266 — It's Not Too Late to Plant Again, Sweet Pea It's Not Too Late to Plant Again — Blog Post Ep 250 — Weeping Cherry Dilemmas: Trees Tell a Story When a Weeping Cherry "Bleeds": What Lies Beneath — Blog Post Ep 176 — Revisiting Cicadas and How Gardens Glow Ep 133. Ripening Fall Tomato Hand-me-Downs Ripening Fall Tomato Hand-me-Downs – Blog Post Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A neglected patch of vegetable garden, a disappointing spring harvest, and a few leftover seed packets inspire a late-season experiment—and a reminder that missed opportunities don’t always mean the season is over. Mary Stone revisits an old “Sweet Pea” story while exploring fall crops of snow peas and beets, and discovers that sometimes we need to clear a little space, plant again, and see what happens in our gardens and in the Garden of Life. Enjoy the companion Blog Post: It’s Not Too Late to Plant Again Related Episodes you will enjoy: Ep 265 - Tending What We Can in the Garden of Life Ep 254 - Leave Room for Wandering: Unexpected Greenhouse Treasures Ep 183 Honorable Harvest - Downsize Do-over Hello Sweet Pea – Blog Post Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
Sometimes we can't tend to everything at once. Mary Stone shares her mission to manage the undesirable Mile-a-Minute weed and Japanese Stilt Grass, while heavy rains unexpectedly cleared the pond of favorable Duckweed. Along the way, an old stone wall, resilient Blackberry Lilies, and newly visible frogs offer reminders that while we can't get to everything in our gardens—or our lives—we can tend what we can and let go of the rest. Link to the Companion Blog Post: Tending What We Can in the Garden of Life Related Episodes you will enjoy: · Episode 177 — Nighttime Chorus of Garden Insects · Episode 264 Another Lesson from the Leaf—Help Is on the Way · Episode 107 — Mile-a-Minute Weed and Butterfly Magnets · Episode 215 — The Tiny Wonder of Duckweed · Episode 211 — Truth and Tale of Two Country Gardens · Blackberry Lily & Soil Remediation Blog Post A favorite "tool of the trade": · Farmer's Defense — Garden Protection Sleeves Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
What happens when life tests the very lessons we hope to live? In this heartfelt episode, Mary Stone shares an emotionally difficult week that almost preempted the weekly chat. She invites listeners onto her screened porch, where a summer thunderstorm replaces the noisy cicadas, setting the stage for a conversation about acceptance, resilience, and hope. Inspired by a recent Call to Calm meditation with Panache Desai, Mary reflects on the image of a single leaf surrendering to the wind and explores how embracing our emotions—rather than resisting them—can help us find peace. Mary also shares an update on her book, T he Lesson of the Leaf , and why one closed door has become the beginning of a new path. Along the way, she revisits a favorite summertime story about the Dog Days of Summer and the curious origins of the phrase "sweating like a pig," bringing a few laughs to a humid August afternoon. The episode closes with a heartfelt reflection on the love we share with our dogs, the pieces of our hearts they carry, and the reassurance that, even during life's hardest seasons, help is on the way. Enjoy the Companion Post: Another Lesson from the Leaf: Help Is on the Way 🌿 Related Links If you enjoyed today's reflection, you'll also enjoy my earlier Episode 234 Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature , where winter's quiet offers another reminder that growth often begins when nothing appears to be happening. Episode 263: Doing Nothing Is Everything: Wisdom from Nature & Gardens Episode 69: The Origin of the Dog Days of Summer - (including the stories behind "Dog Days" and "Sweating Like a Pig") Blog: The Origin of the Dog Days of Summer Other helpful links: Panache Desai free Call to Calm Meditations Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
On a cool, humid summer morning from her screened porch, Mary Stone reflects on the richness of slowing down. From a modest vegetable harvest and the gift of one perfectly ripe cherry tomato to birdwatching, fledgling birds, wandering goats, and the hidden life beneath our gardens, she discovers that doing nothing is often far from doing nothing at all. Join Mary as she explores gratitude, presence, the wisdom found in simply noticing, and the many ways nature and gardens continue to nurture us—even when they don't produce as we'd hoped. In this episode: Why a tiny garden harvest brought unexpected joy The hidden purpose of voles and poison ivy Birdwatching as a practice of presence Dennis Briede's inspiring "sit" tradition Garlic scapes, beet greens, and a little garden humor What nature and gardens teach us about patience, hope, and letting life unfold Sometimes the greatest discoveries aren't found by doing more, but by slowing down long enough to notice what nature has been offering all along. 🌿 Related Links Ep 262 - Beneath the Surface: The Mystery of the Missing Roots Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees Other helpful links: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron (mentioned in the episode) 🐦 Cornell Lab of Ornithology – All About Birds Epic Gardening YouTube video How to Grow Garlic | Garlic Scapes, Harvesting, & Curing Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A thriving rose suddenly becomes loose in the soil, revealing a mystery hidden beneath the mulch. What first appears to be Chipmunk Damage leads to a closer look—Voles, a likely culprit. Mary Stone explores the differences between Moles and Voles, practical ways to protect treasured plants, and how gardens often remind us that what we see on the surface rarely tells the whole story. “Sometimes the greatest lessons, in gardens and in life, begin when we dig a little deeper.” In this episode: A garden mystery unfolds beneath a client's rose garden. Chipmunks, moles, and voles—who's really responsible? How hardware-cloth baskets can protect valuable roses and shrubs. Why poison is not an ideal solution. A white pine update with encouraging news. Reflections on accepting what we cannot control while tending what matters most. Enjoy the Companion Blog Post: Beneath the Surface: The Mystery of the Missing Rose Roots Related Episodes to Enjoy: Ep. 261 – Treasures from the Warwick NY Garden Tour Ep. 185 – Preservation of the Paulinskill: Overcoming Hardships - how tree tubes used in habitat restoration inspired another way to protect vulnerable plants from unseen damage below ground. Ep. 66 – Chipmunk Remedies and Legends Ep. 54 – Sharing Comfort & Dividing Perennials - including a heartfelt reflection about ‘The Boy, the mole, the fox and the Horse,’ illustrated and handwritten by Charlie Mackesy. Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
What makes a garden unforgettable? Sometimes it's a rare plant or a beautiful pond. More often, it's the people behind the garden. Join Mary Stone for a day exploring seven remarkable private gardens on the 32nd Annual Countryside Garden Tour, hosted by the Warwick Valley Gardeners. Along the way, she meets passionate gardeners, discovers clever design ideas, learns about unusual plants, shares conversations with fellow garden lovers, and uncovers the stories that make each landscape unique. Whether you enjoy touring gardens or appreciate the beauty and wisdom they offer, I invite you to come along for the journey. Link to the Related Blog Post: Treasures from a Countryside Garden Tour Related Episodes 🌿 Episode 260 – The Flag and the Knot: Growing Forward Anyway 🌿 Episode 259 – What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life 🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom 🌿 Episode 257 – Love Lovage: Treasures at Well-Sweep Herb Farm 🌿 Episode 256 – Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees 🌿 Ep. 22 – Lessons from Spruce and Forest Pansies of Hope (referenced in this episode during the discussion about Norway spruce) Thank you to the Warwick Valley Gardeners , the homeowners who graciously opened their gardens, and my companions—Susan, Tara, Kathleen, and young Thomas—for making the day one to remember, Mary Stone Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A "quick" Fourth of July project turned into an unexpected lesson in patience, perseverance, and letting go of perfection. After years of waiting to paint an old flagpole, Mary Stone decides it's time to raise a new flag. What follows is a comedy of mystery knots, weathered rope, improvised repairs, and a reminder that life rarely unfolds under perfect conditions. Along the way, she reflects on freedom, belonging, the wisdom of gardens, and how nature keeps moving forward despite imperfections. Plus, a brief update on a familiar garden nemesis—poison ivy. In this episode: A Fourth of July flagpole adventure The lesson hidden in an old knot Why perfection can keep us stuck Gardens as teachers of resilience A poison ivy encounter Enjoy the companion Blog Post: The Flag & the Knot – Growing Forward Anyway . Related Episodes: 🌿 Episode 259 – What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life A reflection on memory, legacy, and the gifts we carry with us. 🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom How beauty and meaning remain, even when expectations aren't met. 🌿 Episode 255 – Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life Exploring our shared desire for connection, purpose, and belonging. 🌿 Ep 108. Value of Virginia Creeper vs. Poison Ivy Connect with Mary Stone: Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life .🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this Fourth of July episode, Mary reflects on a Victorian berry spoon gifted by a friend's son, a family table and long-forgotten letter from her father, a dear friend's journey to United States citizenship, and the lessons unfolding in the vegetable garden. From heirlooms and promises to volunteer tomatoes and a bird building a nest, this episode explores the stories, values, and acts of kindness we carry forward from one generation to the next. As we celebrate 250 years of our nation's history, may we pause to consider what we are planting, preserving, and passing on in our own Garden of Life. "Without context, they're just objects. With context, they become vessels carrying pieces of our lives." — Mary Stone Link to the Companion Blog Post: What We Carry Forward in the Garden of Life Related Episodes: 🌿 Episode 258 – The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn't Bloom 🌿 Episode 255 – Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life 🌿 Episode 256 – Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees 🌿 Episode 257 – Love Lovage: Treasures at Well-Sweep Herb Farm 🌿 Episode 28 – No-Till Gardening with Patti Doell of Little Big Farm Connect with Mary Stone Visit: AskMaryStone.com Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone@gmail.com Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
On a humid morning after a much-needed rain, Mary Stone reflects on the celebration of the life of legendary New Jersey gardener and friend Marty Carson. From stories of children helping to prepare the gardens to the remarkable tale of the Dove Tree (also known as the Handkerchief Tree) to an unexpected gift from Marty's son, this episode explores how gardens teach us to notice beauty, kindness, and one another. Though beloved gardeners may pass, the gardens they create—and the lives they touch—continue to bloom. Link to the Companion Post: The Gift of Noticing: A Dove Tree That Didn’t Bloom Mentioned in this episode: 🌿 The Two Best Gardeners of the Garden State -Blog Post (June 8, 2017) 🌿 Extraordinary Gardeners, Extraordinary Plants - Blog Post (June 18, 2018) 🌿 Episode 25 - Baobab Tree of Life: Growing Kindness Quote from this episode: "The Dove Trees didn't bloom this year. But they will. Gardens bloom again. Kindness blooms again. Love blooms again." Thank you for listening and for sharing the Garden of Life.🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A visit to Well-Sweep Herb Farm in Warren County, New Jersey, leads to unexpected discoveries both in the garden and in life. Mary Stone shares highlights from a tour with third-generation grower Patrick McDuffee, explores the beauty and lore of herbs such as Plantain, Scented Geraniums, Jewelweed, and Lovage, and reflects on the treasures often hidden in plain sight. Back home, a thriving 'Jethro Tull' Coreopsis, gifted to her years ago by her dear friend Marty Carson, becomes a poignant reminder that love, friendship, and the lessons gathered along the way continue to bloom long after people leave our lives. In This Episode 🌿 Touring Well-Sweep Herb Farm with Patrick McDuffee 🌿 Discovering the beauty of lovage 🌿 Plantain, jewelweed, and other herbal treasures 🌿 Native plants and Venus flytraps 🌿 Remembering Marty Carson through a blooming coreopsis 🌿 Finding unexpected treasures in the Garden of Life Link to the Companion Blog Post: Love, Lovage & Treasures at Well-Sweep Farm Thank you for joining me in the Garden of Life. 🌿💛 Related Episodes & Links Episode 217: Moth Surveying in a New Jersey Mountain Meadow Episode 157: Benefits of Plantain & Dandelions Episode 20: Unexpected Furry Messenger – Father John’s Memorial Garden Well-Sweep Herb Farm: https://wellsweep.com More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
Join Mary Stone as she reflects on Spiderwort, a native plant growing in the wrong place; a conversation with a dear client; the wisdom of the song "Crooked Tree"; and a reminder that what appears flawed or out of place may have a purpose we cannot yet see. Along the way, Mary shares a brief update on her vegetable garden, a surprising use for carrot greens, and a favorite story from The Lesson of the Leaf about a beech leaf that landed on her shoulder just when she needed it most. Link to the Related Blog Post: Lessons from Spiderwort and Crooked Trees In this episode: When Spiderwort becomes too much of a good thing Why a troublesome plant may be exactly right somewhere else The wisdom behind the song Crooked Tree "Spiderwort doesn't belong everywhere. But it belongs somewhere." Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life. 🌿🍃🌳 Related Podcasts and Posts: The Fall of the Leaf – Blog Post about the Prologue to The Lesson of the Leaf Ep 83. The Fall of the Leaf Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life - Blog Ep 255 - Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life Link to Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway’s song - Crooked Tree More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares an unexpected realization that emerged while revising her book proposal for The Lesson of the Leaf to Hay House Publishing. Along the way, she reflects on belonging, commitment, the wisdom of gardens, and the connections that sustain us through every season of life. Plus, a garden update featuring radishes, sunflowers, clover, and a reminder that growth often happens beneath the shelter of something larger than ourselves. Thanks for tuning in! Link to Companion Post: Growing Belonging in the Garden of Life Links to related Episodes and Blog Posts: Forest Bathing Helps Loneliness - Blog Post Ep 34. Forest Bathing, Willowwood Champion Trees Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf – Blog Post Ep 180 Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
In this episode, Mary Stone shares a spring greenhouse adventure that begins with shopping for annuals and vegetables and turns into a delightful journey of unexpected discoveries. Along the way, she reflects on a bear emerging from a patch of skunk cabbage, bird nests tucked among flowering shrubs, a mysterious hornet visitor, and the wisdom that can emerge when we leave room for wandering. Mary also offers practical tips for selecting healthy annuals and creating beautiful kitchen gardens filled with flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Perhaps one of life's greatest lessons is this: some of the best treasures are found when we venture beyond what we originally came looking for. Special thanks to Steve Oken and Stonehedge Growers for inspiring this week's greenhouse wanderings and introducing me to some unexpected treasures. Companion Blog Post: Leave Room for Wandering: Unexpected Greenhouse Treasures Previous Podcast Episodes: Ep 251 – Healing Beneath the Mayapple: Skunk Cabbage Wisdom Ep 94 - Starting an Organic Garden & DIY Soil Testing Ep 28 - Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening Ep 149 - Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community Related Blog Posts: Starting an Organic Garden Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community Starting a No-till Garden Old Farmer's Almanac Planting Calendar: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/planting-calendar Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻 More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
Mary Stone shares reflections from a deeply meaningful weekend serving as a Big Buddy at Comfort Zone Camp for children grieving the loss of a parent or sibling to suicide. Through stories of Mayapple, Skunk Cabbage, Barred Owls, Nesting Birds, and an unforgettable Black Bear encounter near the creek, this episode explores Healing, Resilience, Emotional Courage, and the Wisdom Waiting Beneath the Surface of the Natural World. Along the way, Mary revisits earlier podcast stories about Mayapple folklore, Ken Roberts' beautiful song Mandrakes , and the remarkable lessons hidden within even the most unusual woodland plants. Link to Companion Blog Post: Healing Beneath the Mayapple Previous Related Podcasts & Posts Ep 252. Edible vs. Ornamental Rhubarb — Kindness Helps Heal Episode 31: Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye (Featuring Ken Roberts' song: Mandrakes ) Previous blog posts: Mayapple of my Eye Rhubarb Edible vs. Ornamental— Kindness Helps Heal Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com . You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com . You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
This week, from the screen porch, Mary Stone shares reflections on edible versus ornamental rhubarb—both unusual, delightful, and deer-resistant additions to the garden. She also shares stories of rhubarb custard pie, overwintered parsley, blooming tea, pole beans, and other decorative vegetables woven among flower gardens. The episode wraps up with reflections on healing through friendship and community. And the garden lessons found in allowing others to help us through difficult seasons of life. 🌿 Link to the Companion Blog Post: Rhubarb Edible vs. Ornamental— Kindness Helps Heal 🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts: Ep 96 - Mending Fences with Forsythia Ep 101 - Woodcock Dance — Making a Meadow Ep 247 - Nothing Is Wasted: Leaf Mold, Mulch & Letting Go Blog Posts: Mending Fences with Forsythia Woodcock Dance — Making a Meadow Leaf Mold vs. Mulch & The Lesson of Letting Go Parsley comeback story: Parsley Surprise Special Mentions: Panache Desai – Call to Calm Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Songs of Hospice project in Promises That Live Beyond Seasons Thanks for listening and sharing in the Garden of Life. 🌻 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com . You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
What a Changing Garden Teaches - Finding What Belongs Sometimes what we see as a problem is simply a message. While visiting a longtime client in Sparta, New Jersey, Mary Stone reflects on shifting conditions in our landscapes—from struggling rhododendrons and declining pachysandra to the beauty and wisdom of moss. Along the way, she revisits an old dilemma—ants in a mossy patio—with a fresh perspective shaped by time, experience, and a growing appreciation for nature’s balance. Link to the Companion Post: What a Changing Garden Teaches 🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts: Podcast Episodes: Ep 121 – Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies Ep 249 – Living Mulch: Layering with Native Plants Ep 173 – Oakleaf Hydrangea for All Seasons Ep 10 – Beauty in Dreariness, Furry Invaders Ep 250 - Weeping Cherry Dilemmas: Trees Tell a Story Blog Posts: Ants Be Gone Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies Magnificent Moss Native Rhododendrons Garden Dilemmas? Visit AskMaryStone.com or listen on your favorite podcast app. 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com . You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
A weeping cherry tree begins to “bleed,” revealing what lies beneath—from soil stress to planting missteps. Plus, seed-starting tips and a reflection on where we’re truly meant to grow. In this episode, I share what gummosis can tell us about tree health and planting practices, and why repeated plant failure in the same spot deserves a closer look. We also revisit how weeping cherry trees are grafted, what reversion means, and how to care for them thoughtfully. Along the way, I share a few clever seed-planting techniques from listeners and a small correction from last week’s episode—because the garden is always teaching. Link to the Companion Blog Post: When a Weeping Cherry “Bleeds”: What Lies Beneath 🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcasts: Ep 247 - Nothing Is Wasted: Leaf Mold, Mulch & Letting Go Ep 249 - Living Mulch: Layering with Native Plants Reverting Weeping Cherry - Blog Post How to make DIY Seed Tape Garden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com . You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page
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