Advertise on podcast: Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries

Replacing mulch with living layers that nourish soil, support wildlife, and gently teach us patience. What if you could stop mulching—and let plants do the work instead? In this episode, we explore “living mulch” with native groundcovers and layered plantings that support soil, wildlife, and a self-sustaining garden. Along the way: spring planting timing, a client story, and a gentle reminder—plants sleep, creep, then leap. 🌱 Related Episodes If you’d like to dig a little deeper, these earlier episodes pair beautifully with today’s conversation: ·         Ep 247: Leaf Mold, Mulch, and the Lesson of Letting Go  ·         Ep 206: Soil Temperatures and Sowing Seeds  ·         Ep 121: Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies  ·         Ep 31: Comedy of Crickets, Mayapple of My Eye  8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].    You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,  Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

After a harsh winter, Mary Stone reflects on healing in the garden and in life—sharing spring pruning tips, plant care insights, and a humorous tale of “hotdog flies”—all woven with a gentle reminder to slow down, notice beauty, and make room for joy. Link to the Companion Post: Healing After Winter: In the Garden—and in Life Links to related Podcasts and Posts:  Ep. 92: The Secret Life of Pinecones Ep 155. Spacing Plants and Splendid Smokebush Blog Post: Rejuvenation Pruning & Smokebush Blog post: Remedies for Boxwood Leaf Miner  Thanks for Tuning In! More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

As spring unfolds, I find myself reflecting on what remains, what falls away, and what—over time—returns to nourish us again. In this episode, I share a walk in the woods that took an unexpected turn, along with listeners’ questions about using leaves or wood chips in the garden. From there, we explore the benefits of leaf mold versus traditional mulch—how to make it, when to use it, and why it may be one of nature’s most generous gifts. With Easter upon us—a season that holds endings and beginnings in the same breath—I also reflect on a personal decision about letting go, inspired by the image of a leaf carried by water. In nature, nothing is wasted. And perhaps… neither are the moments in our lives. Link to the Companion Blog Post: Leaf Mold vs. Mulch & the Lesson of Letting Go  🌱 In this episode: • How deep to apply leaves in garden beds • What leaf mold is and how to make it • Leaf mold vs. wood mulch (including dyed mulch concerns) • When fresh wood chips are appropriate • The idea of “living mulch” in mature gardens • Lawn tips to support pollinators 🌿 Garden of Life Reflection: What falls away isn’t the end— It’s part of what feeds what comes next. 🔗 Learn more: AskMaryStone.com 🔍 Keywords: leaf mold, mulch, gardening tips, soil health, sustainable gardening, letting go, garden of life 🔗 Links to Related Posts and Podcast: No-Mow May helps Pollinators - Blog Post Ep 103 - No Mow May & Marvelous Moss Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear - Blog Post Ep 246 - Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear   More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Sometimes tending isn’t about removing—it’s about redistributing, restoring, and making space for what’s ready to grow. As winter loosens its grip, early spring invites us to tend—clearing what’s too heavy, redistributing what can nourish, and making space for what’s ready to grow. In this episode, I share what I’m learning as I step into full groundskeeping—raking matted leaves, supporting soil recovery, and embracing a “tapestry lawn” of violets, clover, plantain, and dandelions. We explore: ·         When leaves help—and when they hinder  ·         Why clover and “weeds” deserve a second look  ·         What Creeping Charlie teaches about balance  ·         And how tending the land mirrors tending our lives  🌱 Perhaps most of all, early spring reminds us: Not everything needs to be removedSome things need to be shiftedAnd something good is ready to growLink to the Companin Blog Post: Early Spring Tending: What to Keep, What to Clear  🌼 Related Episodes and Blog Posts to enjoy:  ·    Ep 157 Benefits of Plantain and Dandelion Weeds ·    Ep 168. Pollinators Love No-Mow Clover Lawns ·    Ep 203 - A Violet and Pansy Season of Happiness ·   Plantain & Dandelion Benefits - Blog Post ·  Violet & Pansy Season of Happiness - Blog Post  Garden Dilemmas? Visit: https://askmarystone.com Thank you for tuning in! More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

A roadside walk becomes a lesson in tending what doesn’t belong—and trusting what quietly blooms. From plogging to snowdrops, this episode explores how small actions and nature’s signs guide us back to hope, healing, and the “lesson of belief.” In this episode, Mary Stone shares how a roadside walk became a lesson in tending both the outer and inner worlds. What began as noticing litter turned into a practice of care—picking up what doesn’t belong, much like weeding the undesirables in the garden of life. Along the way, snowdrops appear as if overnight, a snapping turtle tests the thaw, and a quiet realization emerges: The Lesson of the Leaf may also be… The Lesson of Belief. Perhaps they are one and the same. Thank you for tuning in—and for walking alongside me. Link to the Companion Blog Post: Early Spring Reflections: What the Roadside Reveals About Belief 🌿 Related Episodes & Stories If this episode resonated, you'll also enjoy: Ep. 244 – A Late Winter Walk to Remember Ep. 129 – Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits Ep. 98 – Winter Flowers and Folklore More reflections: https://askmarystone.com Small moments matter.  Nature speaks—if we pause to listen.  And even after disruption… growth returns. More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Some walks stay with us long after they end. A quiet rainy walk through the late-winter woods becomes a meditation on healing, hope, and nature’s wisdom. On a misty morning, Mary Stone and her faithful companion, Jolee, head into the forest, where the rhythm of rain and the stillness of the trees create space for reflection. Inspired by an earlier column, March Folklore of Hope, Mary reflects on weather sayings passed through generations, the promise of snowdrops pushing through winter’s frost, and the reminder that storms eventually give way to new growth. Along the way, she recalls a lesson from her brother’s Tai Chi practice — the art of Pushing Hands, where strength comes not from resistance but from balance and redirection. And in a meaningful moment at the end of the episode, Mary shares a breakthrough toward completing the manuscript for her forthcoming book, The Lesson of the Leaf. “ Sometimes the most memorable walks are the ones that help us see the path ahead more clearly. Link to the Companion Blog Post: A Late Winter Walk to Remember & March Folklore of Hope Related Episodes & Stories 🌱 Ep. 34 – Forest Bathing Helps Loneliness/ Willowwood Champion Trees  🌱 Ep. 98 – Winter Flowers and Folklore 🌱 Ep 35 - Leaf Therapy, Essential Oaks 🌱 Ep 180 - Overview of The Lesson of the Leaf Blog Post: Native vs. Invasive Plants: Who Decides What Belongs? To view Blaine Rothhuser’s stunning photo.   📖 Companion blog reflection: March Folklore of Hope 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].    You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,  Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

What does “native” really mean — and who decides? In this episode of Garden Dilemmas, Mary Stone explores native vs. invasive plants, urban gardens, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance. From dandelions to the marmorated stink bug, this episode reflects on what belonging means in a rapidly changing landscape. Inspired by Point State Park in Pittsburgh and the writings of Peter Del Tredici, Mary examines novel ecosystems, adaptation, and how urban environments balance native and non-native plants. A thoughtful look at nature, resilience, and coexistence. Link to the Companion Post: Native vs. Invasive Plants: Who Decides?   May we tend wisely, welcome thoughtfully, and grow together.  Related Stories & Helpful Links: ·         Ep. 99 - Wonders of Witch Hazel ·         Wonders of Witch Hazel - Blog Post ·         Point State Park, an Urban Garden- Pittsburgh, PA  ·         Ep 157. Benefits of Plantain & Dandelion 'Weeds' ·         Benefits of Plantain & Dandelion “Weeds” - Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].    You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast app. Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life,  Mary Stone Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Do hard winters curb garden pests? A listener’s question about whether cold weather reduces “bad bugs” leads to a deeper conversation about beneficial insects, biological control, and sustainable pest management.  In this episode, Mary Stone shares insights from the NJ Nursery & Landscape Association’s Total Pro Expo, exploring why most insects belong in our ecosystems and how predator-prey relationships naturally regulate pest populations.  She discusses the importance of native plants, plant diversity, layered landscape design, and nectar-rich flowers in supporting pollinators and beneficial insects.  Nature reminds us that harmony grows not from elimination, but from inviting more of what sustains life in our gardens and in our garden of life.  Companion Blog Post: Inviting the Beneficial Garden Guests  Thanks for tuning in! Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you’ll Enjoy Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom – Blog Post Ep 68. Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint Gift of Meadows & Mountain Mint – Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

On a slowly thawing winter day, Mary Stone reflects on the relationship between shadows and reflections—in nature, in garden design, and in the tender landscape of the heart. From Jolee's curious moment at the storm door to the science of the mirror test, from still water in gardens to the hidden wisdom in roots shaped by difficult seasons, this episode explores how gentle awareness can transform survival into growth. Thanks for tuning in! Enjoy the Photos on the Companion Blog Post: Reflections in the Garden of Life  Links to Related Podcasts and Posts you'll enjoy: Ep 240. Nature's Shadows, Outlines of Love Nature's Shadows: Outlines of Love & Hope – Blog Post  Link for more about Panache Desai  Videos By Ellen Ebert: Casting Shadows More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

In winter’s long light, shadows reveal more than darkness—they outline memory, love, and quiet hope. Mary reflects on Groundhog Day, Peter Pan’s lost shadow, Jung’s shadow self, and the beauty of moonlit snow, weaving garden wisdom with personal healing. From plant care to letting go, this episode explores how light and shadow together shape resilience, reminding us that even in sorrow, hope gently walks beside us.  Link to the Companion Blog Post: Nature’s Shadows: Outlines of Love & Hope Thanks for tuning in! Related Podcast you’ll enjoy:  Ep 192 Groundhog Day - Ancient Origin and Accuracy Ep 123 Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly Ep 84 Winter Season of Growth 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer   More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

What Yellow Leaves Teach Us Tending houseplants—and hearts—through seasons of change. Yellow leaves on a fiddle-leaf fig often point to watering issues—but they can also offer deeper lessons. In this episode, Mary Stone explores common houseplant dilemmas, from root-bound money trees to yellowing leaves and sneaky pests, while sharing a tender personal chapter. Through gardening wisdom and lived experience, she reflects on patience, balance, and how tending plants can help us tend our hearts during times of transition. Thank you for tuning in! Companion Blog Posts:  When Fiddle-Leaf Figs Turn Yellow  and  Making Room for Growth   Related Podcast and Posts you’ll enjoy:  Ep 146 Money Tree-Houseplants in Duress A Money Tree Brings Abundance - Blog Post  Ep 237. Roofs to Roots: Reviving Houseplants Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom - Blog Post 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories, as well as your thoughts on topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

In this episode, Mary Stone reflects on the quiet wisdom of trees after receiving the New Jersey Tree Survey from the Arbor Day Foundation. She explores how trees support mental and emotional well-being, the realities behind tree-planting campaigns, and the value of nurturing growth over time.  A flashback to a fallen Eastern Hemlock and a thriving young beech offers a gentle reminder that even after loss, new life emerges. Hope, it turns out, sometimes takes the form of a tree. Thanks for Tuning In! Related Episodes and Posts:  Hope in the Form of a Tree - Blog Post Ep 130. A Pet Painted Turtle, Beech Leaf Disease Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease – Blog Post Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech Beloved Beech Trees – Blog Post  8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Mary Stone discusses the benefits of using rainwater and snowmelt for indoor plants and how to revive houseplants in duress. She explores the quiet wisdom of water through stories of Christmas cacti, Jolee's water bowl, and flowing streams, and reflects on patience, renewal, and trusting life's natural flow. Thanks for tuning in! Related Episodes and Posts:  Harvesting Rainwater & Snowmelt Wisdom - Blog Post Ep 89. Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water – Blog Post Houseplants in Duress Turn Happy – Blog Post Benefits of Watering with Rainwater – Blog Post  8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Mary Stone reflects on releasing what no longer serves us and setting intentions that grow in their own time, inspired by nature's rhythms and a New Year water ceremony hosted by Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson. Through garden metaphors and personal insights, she reminds us that what we let go of creates space for quiet, lasting growth. Thank you for tuning in!  Link for more about Rev. Dr. Christina Tillotson Link to Companion Blog Post: What We Release, What We Grow Related Podcasts and Blog Posts you'll enjoy: Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life - Blog Post Episode 141. Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life Benefits of Gardening - Blog Post Ep 139. Legends of Holly and Christmas Trees  Legend of Holly & Christmas Trees - Blog Post  Live Christmas Trees - Blog 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at [email protected].  You can follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone. Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast Page  Thank you for sharing the Garden of Life, Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page

Mary Stone reflects on lessons learned from a year of observation in the garden and wild places beyond it. From copperheads and moths to healing land and personal change, she explores how slowing down, trusting nature, and paying attention to what often goes unseen can lead to growth, understanding, and quiet transformation. Thanks for Tuning In! Link to the Companion Blog Post: What Nature & Gardens Taught Us   🌿 Featured Podcasts and Posts:  Ep 234. Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature Stillness Teaches Growth Through Nature – Blog    Ep 221. Curious Copperhead Encounters Curious Copperhead Encounters – Blog    Ep 195. Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining Healing from Hyper-Humus Peat Mining - Blog    Ep 217. Moth Surveying in a NJ Mountain Meadow Moth Survey in a Mountain Meadow – Blog    Ep 200 A Milestone in Our Journey Together A Milestone in Our Journey Together - Blog Post    Ep 230. Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden Lessons from a Late No-Till Garden - Blog More about the Podcast and Column:  Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries.  It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from Mother Nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in, in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone  Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.com Direct Link to Podcast Page