C. L. Fornari's Blog

A Postcard About Watering

Plants aren't really refreshed by squirting water on their leaves on a hot day...you're better off putting that water on their roots, not their leaves. In fact, unless they are new seedlings with small roots, you're better off not hand-watering those plants at all....

A Three Lysimachia Day

One of the pleasures of being involved with plants is getting to know them as a family. We learn about plants that are in the same genus, and how they are similar. It's like getting to know your best friend's siblings and cousins, or connecting with your extended...

A Postcard From Amazing Blooming Trees

This postcard arrives as the Kousa dogwoods on Cape Cod are amazing in 2025. It explains why we're seeing such an incredible display this year, and why it might not be so prolific in 2026...    
Tree Peonies

Tree Peonies

Imagine:  The early morning sun streamed into Karla’s yard as she stood with her morning coffee, contemplating the space around the patio. She...

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Growing Sunflowers

Growing Sunflowers

Imagine:  When I first moved to Poison Ivy Acres the front entry to the house was a lawn. That’s all, just a lawn. I knew I wanted a flower garden...

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Cook Every Day

Cook Every Day

One of my favorite things is a linen dishtowel from Studio Patro, in San Francisco. I don’t know if they still make it, but if not you should email...

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Hellebore House

Hellebore House

People who live in neighborhoods with sidewalks are so lucky. It's easy to walk past area yards and gardens, and appreciate plantings that might...

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Spring Equinox

Spring Equinox

Today is the first day of spring. In some parts of the world spring weather has come and gone. In others it is in full bloom, while in the more...

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