Photos by Preston Collins
Perhaps it’s just me, but now that Spring is officially upon us, all I want to do is be outside in the sunshine! We’ve been graced with beautiful weather this week to summon the new season; the balcony has become our new dinner spot (barely squeezing Sawyer on it with us since he’s gotten so big!), and a post-lunch or post-work walk is part of the new daily routine.
I’m admittedly not the strongest gardener, but this Spring weather is reeling in my interest to become better and, at the same time, make my home look more beautiful!
I spent an early morning at Millstone Market & Nursery with owner Tricia Hunt to determine the best solutions for a home like our with major afternoon sun and, essentially, zero yard. Tricia pointed out a few solutions, recognizing my personal style preferences (white over color) and the minimalist and contemporary appearance of my townhome’s architecture.
When it comes to seasonal scents, for many "spring" can be summed up by one flower: The Lily-of-the-Valley. The dainty blossom has a sweet and clean appearance and fragrance and produces white, bell-shaped flowers on arching stems above the foliage. I can’t wait for my little buds to bloom. Millstone completed the look of my front-door concrete planter (also from their nursery) with a bright green moss bed and some elegant ivy. While we know this flower won’t last me more than a few months, it’s the perfect kickoff for a season ahead—and I won’t complain about coming back sooner rather than later to pick out something new!
On our upstairs balcony directly above, where the sun beams strongly during afternoon hours, Millstone suggested a wall of succulent varieties. They totally add to the look and feel of our contemporary townhome, and require minimal upkeep due to their cactus-like tendencies. I learned from Tricia that you can actually judge if you need to water them based on the firmness of the leaves (which hold the water!). If they’re feeling flimsy, give ‘em some hydration.
I hope this post inspires you to get your gardening on! ‘Tis the season.
This post is brought to you by Millstone Market & Nursery. Thank you for being supportive of my sponsors!
This post is brought to you by Millstone Market & Nursery. Thank you for being supportive of my sponsors!