C. L. Fornari's Blog

I Love Ilex Vertilcillata ‘Winter Gold’ aka Golden Winterberry

Name:  Ilex vertilcillata ‘Winter Gold’  aka golden winterberry Type of Plant: A large, deciduous shrub, hardy in Zones 3-9, that has peach to orange berries in fall and early winter. Why I Love this Plant:  There’s so much to love about this plant! First of all is...

I Love Chionanthus virginicus – aka Fringe Tree

Name:  Chionanthus virginicus aka fringe tree or old man’s beard. Type of Plant: A large shrub or small tree, native to the Eastern US, growing 15 to 30 feet tall and wide. Why I Love this Plant: If you’ve been to Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich during the...

I Love Abies concolor aka Concolor Fir

Type of Plant:   A blue needled evergreen tree that’s hardy in ones 3 - 7 Why I Love this Plant:  I fell in love with this plant 25 years ago when I did a consultation for a woman in Yarmouth. I looked across her backyard and saw a blue needled evergreen that was...
The Garden Lady’s Trends for 2026

The Garden Lady’s Trends for 2026

Several of the green industry trade publications publish trends for the coming growing season, so I've decided to add my own thoughts to such lists. These are what I see gardeners and homeowners focusing on, along with...

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I Love Star Magnolias

I Love Star Magnolias

Imagine: As you stare out your kitchen window you imagine how it would be to have a small tree centered in the yard so that you’ll see it in all...

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I Love Coleus

I Love Coleus

Imagine: You have a spot in the landscape where a large splash of color is needed. Preferably brilliant, show stopping color. It might be in the...

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I Love Bolero Carrots

I Love Bolero Carrots

Imagine: You’re in the mood for something that’s organic and garden-fresh. You want the intense flavor only found in freshly picked produce....

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Poetry Blocks

Poetry Blocks

If you care about words, poetry and spontaneous fun, you'll like Poetry For Your Table.  Eight wooden blocks imprinted with 48 words, and you'll be...

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I Love Poinsettias

I Love Poinsettias

Imagine: In this world where you can buy strawberries in the supermarkets all year round, and purchase roses or mums for an occasion no matter what...

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Plant Geeks R Us

Plant Geeks R Us

Do you love plants? Is there something about gardens that continues to draw you in no matter what? Join the tribe. Plant Geeks R Us. Some are...

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