Bobbie's Green Thumb

read moreIt turns out that I do much more than just design gardens, as consulting, installing, and maintaining landscape all share an equal piece of the pie. I have a deep passion for all aspects of my profession, and I take great pride in building gardens that will look as good years down the road as they did the day I finished installing them. Usually a one-hour visit with the client to examine the property to decide what, if anything, is worth saving, the factors influencing design such as light, moisture, wind and soil consistency, a discussion of the client's needs, wants and dreams and how to achieve those within the client's budget.

read moreMost lectures are 50 minutes in length and all are slide illustrated except the pruning workshop and "Garden Vignettes". Using examples from classic and modern landscapes, designers will learn several different approaches for resolution of this frequent dichotomy. Add creative garden design plus thoughtful choices and uses of plant material to make your garden a living work of art. Many plants, both woody and herbaceous thrive in shade. Learn to create colorful vignettes with foliage color and texture as well as flower color.

read moreIt goes without saying, but we face some harsh winters here in Northeast Ohio. It often seems like winter lasts forever. Therefore, your garden should give you joy even when skies are cloudy and snow is flying. It will be crucial to incorporate plants that offer beauty and interest while still able to withstand winter's rigors. The 12-Month Garden approach does just that. We want you to have a beautiful and sustainable garden all year round. My 30-plus years of experience in landscape design has taught me a lot about what it means to be a gardener in the Cleveland area.

read moreLandscape design is the process of analysis, planning, creation and/or construction of exterior spaces utilizing plant materials and appropriate hardscape elements including incidental paving and building materials. A professional landscape designer is an individual who is qualified through education, training and professional experience to practice landscape design for monetary compensation. What does it takes to be a landscape designer? It takes a thorough grounding in the principles of landscape design, the capability of using these principles to translate a client's wants and needs into a creative reality, the ability to graphically communicate the design, knowledge of plant material and knowledge of soil and hydrology.

read moreIn one way or another, curb appeal matters to us all. Whether you plan on staying in your home for the next 20 years, or would like to move elsewhere in 20 days, the exterior of your home holds value. A new garden gives you a certain pride when you pull into your driveway every night and often catches the eye of potential buyers. I have found that the fulfillment you get from your home is equal to what you put into it.