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flower arranger was replicating a Claude Monet painting in cut flowers

Beyond the Bright Lights: The Gardens of Las Vegas

A visit to Las Vegas doesn’t have to be about the casinos or crowds. Larry shares how he discovered unexpected beauty in the Bellagio’s stunning landscapes and floral displays, including a Monet masterpiece recreated entirely with fresh flowers.

Photos of old post cards, tea set and making apple crisp

Post Cards, Tea Sets and Apple Crisp

A reflection on family, memories, and letting go. Between my mom’s old tea set, a bundle of postcards, and baking apple crisp with my granddaughter, I’ve been reminded that releasing things can make room for joy.

Fall front porch decor

October, the Best Month of the Year

October brings birthdays, fall colors, and family milestones. From new beginnings to cozy traditions, Stephanie shares why this season feels like the best of the year.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s with Team Sonja

Walking With Gratitude Thank You from Team Sonja💜

This year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Centennial Park was a moving reminder of why we walk. Team Sonja raised $3,595 to honor my mom, Sonja Behnke Festerling, and to support families and caregivers touched by this disease.

Larry Hurleys 25 year old Staghorn Fern hanging under a tree

Growing Staghorn Ferns 25 Years and Counting

Staghorn Ferns, with their antler-like fronds, are easy-care tropicals that thrive on neglect. Larry Hurley shares how his has flourished for 25 years and a whimsical display at Olbrich Gardens.

Liatris ligulistylis, the Meadow Blazing Star

Ultimate Nectar Plant for Monarch Butterflies

Larry Hurley shares his Photo of the Month featuring Meadow Blazing Star, a native perennial that’s a magnet for monarch butterflies. A must-have for any garden looking to support these beautiful pollinators!

Sunrise View of The Great Smoky Mountains

September Already?

“September is here already! From a peaceful trip to the Smoky Mountains to planning fall mums and walking in honor of my mom, I’m sharing a few simple updates this season.”

Monarch hanging on a milkweed

Lately, I’ve Been Thinking About…

These rare cool August days make me wish it had been like this when we were running our nursery, back then it was all heat, humidity, and hustle! Now, I’m enjoying a slower pace and simple garden strolls.

Sunflowers on Rt. 1 at Behnke Nurseries

Alfred’s Sunflower Beds

Years ago, sunflowers lined Route One at Behnke Nurseries, planted to brighten the space, feed pollinators, and bring joy. Larry Hurley shares the story behind them.

Team Sonja: Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Team Sonja: Walking Toward A Cure

I’m honored to walk in memory of my mom, Sonja, this September at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Ellicott City. This post shares why this cause means so much to me and how you can learn more or get involved and maybe even join me in this Walk Toward A Cure

Carol Allen and Stephanie at Thanksgiving Farms

Beyond the Garden Beds: Life These Last Few Weeks

From blooming daylilies and deer troubles to catching up with old friends and prepping for the Christmas-in-July show—here’s what June looked like for Stephanie.

Echinacea Trials; Trial Garden; Mount Cuba Center; DE

Coneflower Wisdom from Mount Cuba

A visit to Mount Cuba Center sparked this look back at their Echinacea trials—45 coneflower varieties, tested and compared, with some clear standouts that still shine in today’s gardens.

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