gardening

I'm shocked and embarrassed that I've never been to this really gorgeous piece of Montana. It's so close, incredibly beautiful, inexpensive to visit, and right up my alley. Perhaps 'tourist attraction' isn't the right term for this Jefferson City gem.

If we could map out all the cool Farmers' Markets across the state of Montana, it would look a little like this. Markets are incredibly popular here, from the largest city to the smallest town. World class agricultural roots, talented artists, and a strong sense of buying local ensure that you're never far away from a Farmers' Market in Montana.

Your favorite fruit trees are going to die soon in Montana if you see any damage similar to these pictures. A long winter with deep snowbanks made for the perfect "storm" of destruction by a hated rodent - the vole.

Hanging flower baskets are fun and easy to make yourself. There's nothing wrong with buying most of the annuals from your favorite garden center, but you should try growing the most stunning part yourself. I do it every year and it's really easy.

Another FREE seminar is happening this Saturday at Cashman's Nursery, and this time we're going to learn tips and tricks to creating healthy container gardens. With the right knowledge, you can grow flowers OR food in small spaces.

The gardening season in Montana starts this weekend, according to local experts - at least when it comes to starting seeds indoors. Learning what works for our often challenging climate will be FUN and FREE with a special event.

Tulips are my favorite bulbs but the deer will feast on them in any non-fenced area of my yard. I made that mistake the first year I moved into my house, planting dozens of lovely tulips. Perhaps 4 of them survived the deer buffet.

What a fantastic idea...a plant swap in Belgrade where you can bring your plants, cutting, knowledge, etc. and end up adopting new houseplants from others in the area. It's practical, fun, social and about as wholesome as it gets.

Sunflowers are a classic simple pleasure in life and they grow quite well in Montana.

This year has just a few, colorful gardening successes for me. Usually I have plenty of flowers and vegetables, but the only things I can take pride in have been my simple flower baskets and pots. How is your garden growing?

If you're needing some ground cover and some color in your Montana garden, there is nothing easier to grow than Cat Mint.

Reason #87 that everyone and their dog is moving to Montana - it's not just the mountains and rivers that are stunningly pretty.