This garden, in SW Portland, is a beautiful example of small garden design. I wish I could say that I had designed it- but the designer is Mike Ellena of Ellena Gardens.

This narrow courtyard now houses a Japanese garden. And while it has many elements, it does not seem busy- a product of great design and a skillful installation.

All great landscape designs hinge on one really great idea. Finding the inspiration for that idea can be difficult at times. Where does inspiration come from?

Here are 5 places that I find inspiration and ideas for landscape designs.

You probably have a landscape design style that speaks to you. But is purity your goal? For most of us, an "inspired" landscape is more realistic. Japanese-inspired and English-inspired landscapes are common. 

Why is the "inspired" garden a good approach for many landscapes?

This month's Total Landscape Care magazine has a cover article on fitting water features into small spaces.

Look for Ben Bowen (our landscape designer) and his design tips in the article!

As mentioned on this blog, and anywhere else I could find, we were named a finalist for TLC's "Landscaper of the Year" program last fall. It is an honor and has been a great experience for us.

In my search for child proof landscaping I have come across some great ideas. Here are just a few that you can try.

How does a landscaping project get on our schedule? And is the start date set in stone?

You need a license to drive, sell liquor, kill, and.... landscape?

Your landscape project, after a gestation period of several months, has started and is nearing completion. From our perspective, your project is not complete until you are totally happy with every detail. 

Does that mean that final payment is not due until every detail is completed?

Portland's Green Street facilities are small rain gardens that catch rain water, letting it naturally return to the ground. Why should you care?