posts by a Blade of Grass

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Hosta Varieties in a Massachusetts Shade Garden

Hostas: Foliage and Structure for Massachusetts Shade Gardens

Hostas can bring remarkable foliage, texture, and structure to Massachusetts shade gardens, but varieties differ considerably in size, color, and form. Learn how we think about choosing and using hostas as part of a larger planting.

Wellesley, MA - curved boxwood hedge defines the lawn edge, offering evergreen privacy and a refined transition between open space and planting.

Plant Spacing: Designing Your Future Landscape

Plant spacing is about more than measuring the distance between plants. Good landscape design considers mature size, growth habit, circulation, and how plants will relate to one another as the property evolves.

Wellesley, MA - Lushly planted beds of boxwood, holly, magnolia, and birch.

9 Landscape Problems We Often Find on New England Properties

Many landscape problems begin with reasonable decisions that didn’t account for how the property would change over time. Here are nine common mistakes we see on New England properties and what homeowners should consider instead.

Inkberry hollies provide evergreen structure and complement layered foundation plantings.

Inkberry Holly: A Native Evergreen for New England Landscapes

Inkberry holly is a versatile native evergreen that adds year-round structure to Massachusetts landscapes, from foundation plantings and mixed borders to moist sites, low hedges, and native gardens.

Gravel garden path bordered by hosta offers a soft, shaded route that supports drainage while enhancing a classic estate landscape.

What Is Circulation in Landscape Design? Creating Better Flow Through Your Property

Good landscape design considers more than how a property looks. Learn how thoughtful circulation can connect the home, gardens, outdoor living spaces, and arrival areas into one comfortable experience.

Pink and white panicle hydrangeas frame a brick garden path, complemented by perennials and a white picket fence in a lush summer landscape.

Panicle Hydrangea: Is It a Good Choice for Massachusetts Landscapes?

Panicle hydrangeas are a familiar sight in Massachusetts gardens, but choosing the right variety and location makes all the difference. Here’s where they work best, how to care for them, and when we’d choose something else.

Carlisle, MA - A garden setting with native plantings surrounding a simple barn structure, creating a functional outdoor space that blends naturally with its surroundings.

Planning a Backyard Transformation: Where to Start, What to Prioritize, and How to Create an Outdoor Space You’ll Love

A successful backyard transformation begins long before construction starts. This guide walks Greater Boston homeowners through the planning process, helping you prioritize goals, avoid common mistakes, and create an outdoor space that adds lasting value to your home.

Boston, MA - An elegant urban rooftop terrace featuring layered gardens, comfortable lounge and dining areas, and sweeping views across the city.

posts by a Blade of Grass

Hostas: Foliage and Structure for Massachusetts Shade Gardens

Plant Spacing: Designing Your Future Landscape

9 Landscape Problems We Often Find on New England Properties

Inkberry Holly: A Native Evergreen for New England Landscapes

What Is Circulation in Landscape Design? Creating Better Flow Through Your Property

Panicle Hydrangea: Is It a Good Choice for Massachusetts Landscapes?

Planning a Backyard Transformation: Where to Start, What to Prioritize, and How to Create an Outdoor Space You’ll Love

Rooftop Terraces and Gardens in Boston: Designing Outdoor Living Above the City

Arborvitae for New England Homes: What to Know Before You Plant

What to Consider When Adding an In-Ground Pool to a Boston-Area Landscape

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