Brandon Lee
Contributing Editor, Gardens
After a decade in software development, Brandon left the tech world to pursue his true passion, earning a degree in Horticultural Science from North Carolina State University. He founded a successful landscape design firm in the Raleigh-Durham area focused on native plants and eco-friendly practices. Brandon's approach is science-based but always user-friendly, a philosophy he honed through a popular local gardening column. He believes a garden should be a source of joy, not stress, and his writing aims to demystify everything from soil pH to pruning techniques.
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Latest Articles
Native plants combat environmental impact of lawn care
By 2026, Nevada will ban all nonfunctional turf, marking a dramatic legislative pivot away from traditional lawns in response to environmental pressures.
Jun 26, 2026 · 2 min read
Cold Stratify Common Milkweed Seeds for Successful Germination
Despite widespread desire to help monarch butterflies, many home gardeners unknowingly miss a crucial step: common milkweed seeds require a minimum of three weeks at 5°C to germinate properly.
Jun 23, 2026 · 2 min read
How to Cultivate a Welcoming Garden for Summer Gatherings
The sight and sound of flowing water in a garden can do more than just soothe; it can actually lower blood pressure.
Jun 21, 2026 · 2 min read
Top 5 Backyard Design Trends for Summer Gatherings 2026
Searches for 'permeable patio' surged by 137 percent, marking a significant shift in homeowner priorities for outdoor spaces.
Jun 18, 2026 · 6 min read
How to Plan June Gardening Tasks for a Bountiful Summer Yield
Small holes on tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers signal flea beetle damage, a clear indication that early June vigilance is crucial for a successful summer harvest.
Jun 9, 2026 · 3 min read
Mosquito Repellent Plants for Gardens
Planting Lantana camara around homes reduces indoor catches of Anopheles gambiae s.
Jun 9, 2026 · 7 min read
Plant fragrant roses for incredible garden smell all season
Some highly-rated fragrant roses, once priced at nearly $50, are now available for just $19.
Jun 8, 2026 · 3 min read
Fashion Shifts to Muted Hues for June 2026 Color Trends
This June, a $2,350 Alaïa Le Teckel textured-leather tote in plum and $120 Cos tailored longline shorts in mocha mousse signal a shift in fashion.
Jun 7, 2026 · 2 min read
The Gravel Garden Explains Dry Gardening Techniques for Water-Wise Futures
A single gravel garden, applying techniques from 'The Gravel Garden,' can save up to 10,000 gallons of water annually.
Jun 6, 2026 · 4 min read
Romantic, nostalgic designs lead 2026 summer home trend
James Farmer, a prominent designer, once purchased a church steeple for a mere $20 to anchor a romantic, European-inspired garden.
May 30, 2026 · 5 min read
New moments of joy bloom in gardens in 2026
On June 9, Norcross Discovery Garden Park will unveil a new bronze white squirrel sculpture named Sage, part of an interactive public arts project designed to engage visitors.
May 28, 2026 · 3 min read
Grow Cilantro All Summer With These Easy Tips
When temperatures climb above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, your cilantro plant is already on a rapid, irreversible path to flowering and losing its signature flavor.
May 21, 2026 · 3 min read
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: New Garden Design Welcomes Bats
At the 2026 Chelsea Flower Show, a garden designed for bats will feature a still water pool: a 15cm deep, 1m wide metal vessel.
May 21, 2026 · 4 min read
Southern garden tours feature historic homes and upcoming events
Day-specific tickets for Charlotte's Secret Gardens Tour will cost $35 per person when it opens on May 16, 2026, according to Fourthwardclt .
May 14, 2026 · 2 min read
Southern Historic Estates & Gardens See Tourism Surge Amidst New Trends
Last year, visitor numbers to Southern historic gardens surged by 25%, outpacing general tourism growth and drawing a new generation of travelers more interested in culinary events and augmented reali
May 14, 2026 · 5 min read
How to Prepare Your Southern Garden: Soil Prep & Plant Care
Many Southern gardeners unknowingly sabotage their efforts before a single seed is sown, simply by neglecting a basic soil test.
May 12, 2026 · 3 min read