Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries-logo

Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries

Gardening

Join columnist and garden designer Mary Stone in sharing Dilemmas, Delights, & Discoveries in the Garden of Life.

Location:

United States

Description:

Join columnist and garden designer Mary Stone in sharing Dilemmas, Delights, & Discoveries in the Garden of Life.

Language:

English


Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 250 - Weeping Cherry Dilemmas: Trees Tell a Story

4/26/2026
A weeping cherry tree begins to “bleed,” revealing what lies beneath—from soil stress to planting missteps. Plus, seed-starting tips and a reflection on where we’re truly meant to grow. In this episode, I share a recent client visit, what gummosis can tell us about tree health and planting practices, and why repeated plant failure in the same spot deserves a closer look. We also revisit how weeping cherry trees are grafted, what reversion means, and how to care for them thoughtfully. Along the way, I share a few clever seed-planting techniques from listeners and a small correction from last week’s episode—because the garden is always teaching. 🔗 Resources Living Mulch: Layering with Native PlantsReverting Weeping Cherry https://askmarystone.com/reverting-weeping-cherry/ https://www.twopondsfarm.net/blog/make-your-own-seed-tapesGarden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:40

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 249 - Living Mulch: Layering with Native Plants

4/19/2026
Replacing mulch with living layers that nourish soil, support wildlife, and gently teach us patience. What if you could stop mulching—and let plants do the work instead? In this episode, we explore “living mulch” with native groundcovers and layered plantings that support soil, wildlife, and a self-sustaining garden. Along the way: spring planting timing, a client story, and a gentle reminder—plants sleep, creep, then leap. 🌱 Related Episodes If you’d like to dig a little deeper, these earlier episodes pair beautifully with today’s conversation: · Ep 247: Leaf Mold, Mulch, and the Lesson of Letting Go · Ep 206: Soil Temperatures and Sowing Seeds · Ep 121: Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies · Ep 31: Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:11

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 248 - Healing After Winter: In the Garden—and in Life

4/12/2026
After a harsh winter, Mary Stone reflects on healing in the garden and in life—sharing spring pruning tips, plant care insights, and a humorous tale of “hotdog flies”—all woven with a gentle reminder to slow down, notice beauty, and make room for joy. Links to related Podcasts and Posts: Ep. 92: The Secret Life of Pinecones Blog post: Remedies for Boxwood Leaf Miner Thanks for Tuning In! More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:32

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 247 - Nothing Is Wasted: Leaf Mold, Mulch & Letting Go

4/5/2026
As spring unfolds, I find myself reflecting on what remains, what falls away, and what—over time—returns to nourish us again. In this episode, I share a walk in the woods that took an unexpected turn, along with listeners’ questions about using leaves or wood chips in the garden. From there, we explore the benefits of leaf mold versus traditional mulch—how to make it, when to use it, and why it may be one of nature’s most generous gifts. With Easter upon us—a season that holds endings and beginnings in the same breath—I also reflect on a personal decision about letting go, inspired by the image of a leaf carried by water. In nature, nothing is wasted. And perhaps… neither are the moments in our lives. 🌱 In this episode: • How deep to apply leaves in garden beds • What leaf mold is and how to make it • Leaf mold vs. wood mulch (including dyed mulch concerns) • When fresh wood chips are appropriate • The idea of “living mulch” in mature gardens • Lawn tips to support pollinators 🌿 Garden of Life Reflection: What falls away isn’t the end— It’s part of what feeds what comes next. 🔗 Learn more: AskMaryStone.com 🔍 Keywords: leaf mold, mulch, gardening tips, soil health, sustainable gardening, letting go, garden of life 🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcast: No-Mow May helps Pollinators - Blog Post Ep 103 - No Mow May & Marvelous Moss Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear - Blog Post Ep 246 - Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:29

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 246 - Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear

3/29/2026
Sometimes tending isn’t about removing—it’s about redistributing, restoring, and making space for what’s ready to grow. As winter loosens its grip, early spring invites us to tend—clearing what’s too heavy, redistributing what can nourish, and making space for what’s ready to grow. In this episode, I share what I’m learning as I step into full groundskeeping—raking matted leaves, supporting soil recovery, and embracing a “tapestry lawn” of violets, clover, plantain, and dandelions. We explore: · When leaves help—and when they hinder · Why clover and “weeds” deserve a second look · What Creeping Charlie teaches about balance · And how tending the land mirrors tending our lives Perhaps most of all, early spring reminds us: 🌱 Not everything needs to be removed 🌱 Some things need to be shifted 🌱 And something good is ready to 🌼 Related Episodes and Blog Posts to enjoy: · Ep 157 Benefits of Plantain and Dandelion Weeds · Ep 168. Pollinators Love No-Mow Clover Lawns · Ep 203 - A Violet and Pansy Season of Happiness · Plantain & Dandelion Benefits - Blog Post · Violet & Pansy Season of Happiness - Blog Post Garden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com Thank you for tuning in! More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:11:56

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 245 - What the Roadside Reveals: Lesson of Belief

3/22/2026
A roadside walk becomes a lesson in tending what doesn’t belong—and trusting what quietly blooms. From plogging to snowdrops, this episode explores how small actions and nature’s signs guide us back to hope, healing, and the “lesson of belief.” In this episode, Mary Stone shares how a roadside walk became a lesson in tending both the outer and inner worlds. What began as noticing litter turned into a practice of care—picking up what doesn’t belong, much like weeding the undesirables in the garden of life. Along the way, snowdrops appear as if overnight, a snapping turtle tests the thaw, and a quiet realization emerges: The Lesson of the Leaf may also be… The Lesson of Belief. Perhaps they are one and the same. Thank you for tuning in—and for walking alongside me. 🌿 Related Episodes & Stories If this episode resonated, you'll also enjoy: Ep. 244 – A Late Winter Walk to Remember Ep. 129 – Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits Ep. 98 – Winter Flowers and Folklore More reflections: https://askmarystone.com Small moments matter. Nature speaks—if we pause to listen. And even after disruption… growth returns. More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:54

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 244 - A Late Winter Walk to Remember

3/8/2026
More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:15:00

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 243. Native vs. Invasive: Who Decides?

3/1/2026
What does “native” really mean — and who decides? In this episode of Garden Dilemmas, Mary Stone reflects on native vs. invasive plants, urban gardens, dandelions, and even the marmorated stink bug. Inspired by Point State Park in Pittsburgh and the writings of Peter Del Tredici, Mary explores biodiversity, novel ecosystems, and what belonging means in a rapidly changing world. A thoughtful look at nature, adaptation, and the lessons our gardens teach about coexistence. Thanks for tuning in! More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:56

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 242. Inviting the Beneficial Insect Guests

2/22/2026
Do hard winters curb garden pests? A listener’s question about whether cold weather reduces “bad bugs” leads to a deeper conversation about beneficial insects, biological control, and sustainable pest management. In this episode, Mary Stone shares insights from the NJ Nursery & Landscape Association’s Total Pro Expo, exploring why most insects belong in our ecosystems and how predator-prey relationships naturally regulate pest populations. She discusses the importance of native plants, plant diversity, layered landscape design, and nectar-rich flowers in supporting pollinators and beneficial insects. Nature reminds us that harmony grows not from elimination, but from inviting more of what sustains life in our gardens and in our garden of life. Related Blog Post - Inviting the Beneficial Insect Guests - To Come Thanks for tuning in! Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you’ll Enjoy Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom – Blog Post Ep 68. Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint – Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:12

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 241. Reflections in the Garden of Life

2/15/2026
On a slowly thawing winter day, Mary Stone reflects on the relationship between shadows and reflections—in nature, in garden design, and in the tender landscape of the heart. From Jolee's curious moment at the storm door to the science of the mirror test, from still water in gardens to the hidden wisdom in roots shaped by difficult seasons, this episode explores how gentle awareness can transform survival into growth. Thanks for tuning in! Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you'll enjoy: Ep 240. Nature's Shadows, Outlines of Love Nature's Shadows: Outlines of Love & Hope – Blog Post Link for more about Panache Desai Videos By Ellen Ebert: Casting Shadows More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:03

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 240. Nature’s Shadows, Outlines of Love

2/8/2026
In winter’s long light, shadows reveal more than darkness—they outline memory, love, and quiet hope. Mary reflects on Groundhog Day, Peter Pan’s lost shadow, Jung’s shadow self, and the beauty of moonlit snow, weaving garden wisdom with personal healing. From plant care to letting go, this episode explores how light and shadow together shape resilience, reminding us that even in sorrow, hope gently walks beside us. Thanks for tuning in! Related Podcast you’ll enjoy: Ep 192 Groundhog Day - Ancient Origin and Accuracy Ep 123 Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly Ep 84 Winter Season of Growth 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:27

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 239. Tending Houseplants - Tending Hearts

2/1/2026
On a frigid winter day, Mary Stone reflects on how tending houseplants mirrors tending our own hearts during times of change. From rescuing a root-bound money tree to troubleshooting a struggling fiddlehead fig, she offers practical tips on repotting, watering, and pest care — along with gentle reminders about patience, balance, and resilience. With fresh soil, proper light, and steady attention, growth can return, quietly and faithfully, in our homes and in our lives. Related Podcast and Posts you’ll enjoy: Ep 146 Money Tree-Houseplants in Duress A Money Tree Brings Abundance - Blog Post Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom - Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:45

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 238. Hope Takes the Form of a Tree

1/18/2026
In this episode, Mary Stone reflects on the quiet wisdom of trees after receiving the New Jersey Tree Survey from the Arbor Day Foundation. She explores how trees support mental and emotional well-being, the realities behind tree-planting campaigns, and the value of nurturing growth over time. A flashback to a fallen Eastern Hemlock and a thriving young beech offers a gentle reminder that even after loss, new life emerges. Hope, it turns out, sometimes takes the form of a tree. Thanks for Tuning In! Related Episodes and Posts: Ep 130. A Pet Painted Turtle, Beech Leaf Disease Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease – Blog Post Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech Beloved Beech Trees – Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:08

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants

1/11/2026
Mary Stone discusses the benefits of using rainwater and snowmelt for indoor plants and how to revive houseplants in duress. She explores the quiet wisdom of water through stories of Christmas cacti, Jolee's water bowl, and flowing streams, and reflects on patience, renewal, and trusting life's natural flow. Thanks for tuning in! Related Episodes and Posts: Ep 89. Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water – Blog Post Houseplants in Duress Turn Happy – Blog Post Benefits of Watering with Rainwater – Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:11:05

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 236. What We Release, What We Grow

1/4/2026
Mary Stone reflects on releasing what no longer serves us and setting intentions that grow in their own time, inspired by nature's rhythms and a New Year water ceremony hosted by Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson. Through garden metaphors and personal insights, she reminds us that what we let go of creates space for quiet, lasting growth. Thank you for tuning in! Link for more about Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy: Ep 139. Legends of Holly and Christmas Trees Legend of Holly & Christmas Trees - Blog Post Live Christmas Trees - Blog 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:11:42

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 235. What Nature and Gardens Gifted Us

12/28/2025
Mary Stone reflects on the gifts learned from nature and gardening in the past year, emphasizing the importance of observation, trust, and patience. She recalls significant episodes like "Curious Copperhead Encounters," which changed a listener's perspective on snakes, and "Moth Surveying in a New Jersey Mountain Meadow," which highlighted the beauty of nocturnal creatures. Stone also discusses the healing of damaged land through natural processes and the value of slowing down and appreciating the unseen aspects of nature. She concludes by sharing personal reflections on change and growth, encouraging listeners to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the natural world. Featured Podcasts and Posts: Ep 234. Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature – Blog Ep 221. Curious Copperhead Encounters Curious Copperhead Encounters – Blog Ep 195. Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining - Blog Ep 217. Moth Surveying in a NJ Mountain Meadow Moth Survey in a Mountain Meadow – Blog Ep 200 A Milestone in Our Journey Together A Milestone in Our Journey Together - Blog Post Ep 230. Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden— Blog Post More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:11:51

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 234. Stillness and the Insights of Nature’s Plan

12/21/2025
Mary Stone shares wisdoms in her upcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf, which draws from weekly conversations about how nature and gardens help heal and grow our lives. She reflects on the importance of patience, stillness, and connection, using analogies from nature and personal experiences. Mary emphasizes that healing and growth are natural processes, not something to be rushed or fixed. She shares insights on letting go, resilience, and the invisible connections in nature, urging listeners to embrace stillness and trust in the cycle of life. Thanks for Tuning In! Link to the related podcast: Episode 180 Overview of the Lesson of the Leaf More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:32

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 233. Everything has its Season - Lesson of the Leaf Epilogue

12/14/2025
Mary Stone discusses her garden and offers personal reflections, highlighting winter's impact on her landscape. She expresses gratitude for the snow covering her woodland floor and shares her creative use of deer-pruned holly branches to decorate a cherished pot. Mary reflects on the invasive nature of some plants, such as butterfly bush and barberry, and her shift toward using more native plants. She also draws metaphorical parallels between garden maintenance and personal relationships, emphasizing the importance of letting go when necessary. Mary concludes by thanking her listeners for their support and encouragement. Thanks for Tuning in! Related Posts and Podcasts you'll Enjoy. Ep 68 Gift of Meadows and Mountain Mint Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint - Blog Post Ep 212. Beavers vs. Woodchucks - Barberry Alternatives Alternatives to Invasive Barberry - Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:13:40

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 232. Late Season Tasks into Décor, Rooted in Healing

12/7/2025
Mary Stone reflects on late-season garden projects, including the removal of old telephone poles and the careful harvesting of boulders for new retaining walls—done with deep respect for the surrounding ecosystem. She shares tips for planting perennials with liner plugs, using Stress X to support transplanted shrubs, and managing fallen leaves to benefit both wildlife and soil health. Weaving garden wisdom with seasonal reflection, Mary Stone shares her tradition of decorating with roadside finds, turning late-fall garden tasks into natural holiday décor while honoring the beauty of gathering gently and respectfully from the land. This episode is a quiet meditation on care, change, and the healing that continues beneath the surface. Related Podcasts and Posts Ep 97. Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks Etiquette of Pilfering Rocks Ep. 230 Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden— Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com. You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:15:07

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Ep 231. Three Seasons of Growth —a Tribute

11/30/2025
More about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Duration:00:12:43