Conveying a Passion

Boom Without the Bloom

This is a look at an often overlooked but vitally important part of the garden and landscape. If something should compromise the floral aspect of your garden, you should have a strong foliar background to carry the garden through the season.

Interesting and Dependable Plant Choices 

Everyone has their own list of their favorite plants, this one is mine. I'll cover trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants. In addition some tropical plants and tender perennials to spice things up.

The Exciting World of Container Culture 

A look at the breadth of container gardening styles and techniques. Different types of containers are discussed as well as some favorite plants for container culture.

Define Your Own Style 

This is a look at how to personalize your garden through the use of artistic element and found artifacts. Discussed is the addition of garden furniture as a design element. We will also consider the use of ornamental containers and floral container combinations as extensions of your personality in your garden.

Visions Of Chanticleer

This talk is a walking garden narrative, covering the different garden areas.  Different seasons and phases of the garden will be revealed, as well as the personalities that make the garden what it is.

A Focus on the Art and Whimsy

Horticulture is imperative at Chanticleer, but is not the only thing that sets the garden apart from other public gardens. It is also the efforts of the staff that make the garden unique. This talk highlights the artists and their work in the garden

An artistic approach to design of necessary items in the public garden, park, space, world drawing inspiration from the place and living community in which it will be placed and utilized. Many examples used are from Chanticleer so it could also serve as a Chanticleer introduction as well.

I have given this talk to the APGA, American Public Gardens Association. This can also be applied to those in the trade, or anyone who creates and installs beauty and may potentially interact with the audience that experiences it.

Defining the Architecture of the Garden 

This is a study of plant architecture and how it impacts the garden through a mix of hardy and non-hardy plant images. I will discuss ways to improving these aspects of your garden.

Exciting Tropical and Tender Plants

There is nothing like pushing the limits in the garden and this is a great way to start. When you combine the hottest, sexiest tropical beauties with a sharp looking pot, add fertilizer, water and lots of summer heat and watch out! We will look at some of my favorite performers from the tropics, as well as some temperate annuals. 

A Design and Motivational Talk 

This talk will give the beginner and advanced gardeners tips from the pros to help freshen up their own gardens at home. It will provide something to think about while contemplating their own beds, pots and combinations next season.

Learning to combine the right plants

Finding the right mix, opening our eyes to what makes great combinations in a garden setting. Plants, colors, textures, paving and hardscape, as well as furniture will be discussed in detail.