One of the issues we often neglect is long-term planning for our gardens. The beautiful deciduous shade tree that is more than 70 years old in some gardens will not last forever. Replacement trees...

meable or environmental pavers: my personal favourite is called Turfstone. Turfstone are diamond shaped pavers (fitting together in a grid) with an opening in the centre of each diamond that allows...

I am often asked by clients, friends and family members - everyone really - what type of garden style is my personal favourite.

The question often leaves an awkward pause as I search my head for...

In our small gardens, we have to consider not only the length and width of our yard but our vertical space. That is the space from the ground to the sky. We need to stop complaining about the lack...

Annuals have an extremely important design role in our urban gardens.

Gardeners plant annuals for their long-lasting vibrant colour and long blooming period. They have a flowering season that...

Plan for gorgeous garden views from the inside out. Beginning from the initial design stage, consider creating desirable views of the garden from within your home.

Mark all the windows and doors...

I know spring is here, but where do I start? I have lots of people ask me this question.

Here are five essential priorities to start you off for a successful gardening season. Don't do...

Now that the holiday season is approaching, we think about giving gifts to individuals that are meaningful in our lives. It is not always the gift but the thought behind it and the recognition of...

The lack of colour in a garden during the winter can be a major source of discontent among gardeners. Of course in the summer, we don't complain about this and enjoy a succession of bloom with our...

Although it still feels like fall, winter is coming.

However, let's dwell on the positive. One uplifting perspective is that winter gives us some essential time to look at our garden and reflect...

Preparing your garden for winter requires setting some time aside during October and November.

Fortunately, the weather has been great for outdoor work in the garden. I received an interesting...

Who wants a low-maintenance garden? Everybody wants one. What comes to my mind when I hear my clients specify a low-maintenance garden is a yard covered with river rocks.

Nothing else except river...

Order, balance and minimalism are three fundamental concepts that I focus on when I design a French formal garden.

This style is definitely not for everyone, but for some people it is the most...

Before you buy a Japanese maple, plan ahead and figure out exactly where it will be planted. A combination of three factors: microclimate, water and soil need to be considered before you select a...

One of the most striking characteristics of a Japanese maple is the colour of the foliage: crimson, gold, pumpkin orange or multiple shades of green.

The Japanese maple is also known as Acer...

The majority of us do not have one-acre gardens.

Instead, we have smaller urban landscapes so we all have to garden within a limited space. I will look at this in a positive light and recommend...

The front entrance of your house deserves a critical design analysis as it's the first impression that someone has of your home. Think about the design of your front entrance. Is there a smooth...

Location, location, location.

In the garden, the patio is the place where everybody congregates. Usually my clients want to know where to locate their patio and what size it should be.

The...

In landscaping, timing is everything. Unfortunately, the growing season does not last all year in Toronto.

You just can't plant bulbs in January when there is a foot of snow on the ground. If I...