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Roses by Any Other Name…

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Empowerment
Roses by Any Other Name…

Cynthai brian & tournament of roses - 2

Digging Deep-Gardening with Cynthia Brian

“I don’t know whether nice people tend to grow roses or growing roses makes people nice.”   Roland A. Browne

Roses are the most popular bloomers in the world with a long and colorful history as symbols of love, war, beauty, friendship, and politics. According to fossil evidence, the majestic rose is older than humankind, dating to over thirty five million years ago. The cultivation of garden roses most likely began in China over five thousand years ago. Throughout the Northern Hemisphere, the genus Rosa includes one hundred and fifty species.  Roses were used for celebrations, perfume, medicine, fashion, and décor.

The Persians considered the rose a representation of love, the Romans planted extensive public rose gardens, the Greeks wrote about roses, and pagan goddesses were associated with this fragrant flower. During the fifteenth century, “The War of the Roses” saw the House of York with its white rose fighting against the red rose House of Lancaster for control of England. In France, Napoleon’s wife Josephine planted an extensive rose collection at Chateau de Maimason which is where the famed illustrator, Pierre Joseph Redoute completed what is considered one of the finest records of botanical illustration with his watercolor collection, “Les Rose”.
sarah bernhardt roses. - 1
Contrary to popular belief, roses are extremely easy to grow with relatively low maintenance and rewards that far outweigh any efforts on their behalf.  This is the time of year when heavy pruning is in order as well as planting bare root specimens.

Let’s look at the different kinds of roses and how to care for them.

Floribunda
These versatile sun-loving shrubs have the most blossoms of the hybrid teas setting clusters of three to fifteen blossoms per stem.

Hybrid Tea
Ideal for cutting, these tall,  striking long stemmed roses are the ones you’ll find in florist bouquets. Hybrid teas have only one flower per stem with many varieties revealing a lovely rose fragrance.

Grandiflora
These repeat bloomers are a cross between a floribunda and a hybrid tea. Growing up to six feet tall, these elegant roses feature clusters on shorter stems.
rose catalogues
Shrub and Carpet
Disease resistant, compact growth, impressive clusters with little to no maintenance makes these a great selection for hillsides. These landscape roses spread growing close to the ground, which is why they are often referred to as “carpet roses”.  Wack them off at the end of the season for even more blooms in the months to come.

Climber
Trained to a trellis, fence, or arbor, these roses produce long, arching canes with prolific blooms. On a wall or wire, they will dress up any garden.

Tree
Hardy root-stock is grafted to a long stemmed rose then grafted again to a rose bush at the top of the stem to make this elegant rose.  Additional care is necessary to maintain these specimens.

Miniature
Perfect for container gardening, these very resilient roses range from six inches to two feet in height. They flower consistently and are great for small spaces. My favorite is called Sun Sprinkles with creamy butter yellow florets on a plant that is only about one foot tall.
roses
Grades: When you buy a rose, you’ll see a number on the tag: 1, 1 ½ and 2. These are grades showing the size and quality of the plant with the best being #1 which will have bigger and better canes, will grow faster, and provide more blooms in the first year. It is always worth buying the best quality rose appropriate for your particular microclimate.

Patents: Some breeders have registered their roses with the patent office so that they cannot be duplicated. This means that you cannot legally propagate it without permission.

Growing Roses: The most important thing to remember for pest protection is to buy a top quality specimen that is appropriate for your conditions. Although most roses prefer full sun, there are varieties that grow beautifully in light shade.  Roses need good drainage in acidic soil. Improve clay soil by working organic matter into the beds to a depth of twelve inches. Gypsum, pine needles, redwood leaves, and coffee grounds will reduce alkalinity.  Fertilize in March with a mixture of alfalfa pellets and diatomaceous earth.  For insect control, companion plant with lavender and alliums.

DeadHeading and Pruning: After blooms are spent, deadhead to encourage repeat blooming. Don’t worry about how you cut the stems. Roses aren’t fussy. You can pinch off the blooms with your fingers or use a sharp shear to cut to the fifth leaf. Once a year at the end of January, prune the wood to half size for all modern varieties. For floribundas, hybrid teas, and grandifloras, early spring just as the buds are swelling is a good time to prune. Old-fashioned roses and climbers need pruning after flowering as they bloom on old wood. If you don’t know what kind of rose bush you have, don’t worry. Prune in late January or February and let nature do its magic. Roses can not be killed by heavy pruning.
carpet roses.jpg
Rose Hips: If you don’t deadhead, you’ll notice tiny little orange to red balls forming where the bloom used to be. The birds love these rose hips as nutritional food and they are also food for humans, especially flavorful in teas. However, by allowing rose hips to form, the bush will stop blooming as the hips signal it is time for a rest. Make sure to prune them off to enable lots of spring flowers.

Thorns: Most roses do have thorns, some more so than others. I am willing to put up with a few cuts now and then because of the pleasure roses provide. I repeat what our great President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, had to say about roses: “Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns. I am thankful that thorns have roses.”

At this time of year you’ll find numerous bare-root varieties available at your nursery and garden center. If you are seeking special roses, peruse rose catalogues. Order David Austin English roses through February 19th and receive a 20% discount off your order. Go to www.DavidAustinRoses.com. Use promo code UHA.

Being a rosarian does breed kindness in people. This year plant a rose garden and enjoy years of beauty, fragrance, and armfuls of bouquets to share throughout every season. 2016 is coming up roses.

Happy Gardening and Happy Growing!

Read more
Roses.jpg

©2016
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Starstyle® Productions, llc
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
925-377-STAR
Tune into Cynthia’s Radio show at www.StarStyleRadio.net
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.

Houseplant Happiness

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Empowerment
Houseplant Happiness

Digging Deep-Gardening with Cynthia Brian
cynthia-fountain
“I couldn’t wait for success ― so I went ahead without it.”  ~ Jonathan Winters

It’s raining, it’s pouring, the old man is snoring! And, oh, how happy we are all! As those of you who have been reading this decade old column know, I am not usually a fan of winter because I adore basking in the sunlight of gardening bliss. But this January I am singing in the rain because raindrops keep falling on my head.  El Nino translated means our natural surroundings are finally receiving a well deserved soaking. Woohoo!

Since it’s wet and cold outside, we’ll bring the healthy spirit of the outdoors in with beautiful houseplants. Many plants that we relish as indoor specimens grow wild in the tropics or warmer climates south of the equator. To start the year out with wellness as a resolution, we can provide physical and psychological benefits to our families by introducing the bold shapes, exotic foliage, and cool colors of houseplants. Inside plants clean the air absorbing more than 87% of volatile organic compounds, including formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air we breathe. VOCS come from  newer, more energy-efficient buildings as well as household cleaners, carpeting off-gasses, drapes, furniture, and personal care products including hair spray and nail polish. The Environmental Protection Agency reveals that indoor pollution can be five to ten times greater than the outdoors.
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Houseplants to the rescue!

Contrary to what many people believe, houseplants are extremely easy to grow, maintain, and enjoy with just a little TLC-food, water, sunlight, and singing, if you so desire. Different plants require various amounts of each. Choose the right plant for your chosen location then allow the healthy plant to take care of itself.

Some of the best plants to absorb airborne toxins include spathiphyllum, also known as the peace lily, orchids, pothos, Chinese evergreen, philodendron, and dieffenbachia. All houseplants will clean the air and provide beauty.

Scientific studies indicate that houseplants keep us healthy in multiple other ways including reduction in headaches, colds, sore throats, and stress levels. Gardeners know that being in nature is good for our bodies, minds, and spirits. Bringing the outdoors in during the dreary months is a health booster improving creativity, cognitive skills, memory, and problem solving. When you have the heat on, the plants also act as natural humidifiers relieving dried skin, chapped lips, and discomfort.
tillandsia
My favorite indoor plants include the fiddle leaf fig for rooms with tall ceilings. In its native habitat of Africa the fiddle leaf will grow to forty feet, but indoors it may reach ten to fifteen feet, living for three decades or more. For longevity of blooms, you can’t beat orchids or bromeliads. They need almost zero care yet flower for months on end.  Another constant bloomer with bright shiny green leaves is the peace lily. It tolerates all levels of light and abuse and just brings tranquility to any room. Pothos has to be one of the easiest houseplants to grow. You can snip off a piece, stick it in soil, water, and let it do its thing.  At this time of year, Christmas cactus are in full bloom. After the blossoms are spent, put them outside on a porch or patio until they bloom the following season. Azaleas in bloom can be put on patios, porches, and brought inside as accents for short periods of time. If you are looking for plants that only need an occasional spritzing, buy tillandsias, or air plants. They live on air, literally. Palms, anthuriums, ZZplants, and many more are all available at your local garden center.

If you think you have a brown thumb indoors, here’s THE 101 on how to be a pro.
aaleas-orchids-porch.jpg - 1
1. Before buying a plant, decide where you will want it to be placed. Is it sunny, dark, warm, cold? Check plant tags for the information you’ll need to keep your plant happy. My measuring trick for light is that if you can read a magazine in the space, the plant can grow in that low light.
2. Avoid putting any plants on or near radiators, air conditioners, TV’s, or drafty areas.
3. Water only when the soil is dry an inch below the surface. Stick a pencil in the dirt and if it comes up dry, give your plant a drink. Don’t over water. Yellowing and dropping leaves is usually a sign of too much moisture. Don’t drown your plants or they will suffocate and die.
4. Always have a saucer under every pot and a protective element (a tile, coaster, CD disk, cork) under the saucer to prevent ruining furniture in the event of spills. Don’t let plant container sit in excess water.
5. Feed two or three times per year according to the plant tag directions.
6. Repot when root bound.
7. Enjoy clean air and a prettier interior with your houseplants.
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Houseplants are happiest when temperatures are between 70 and 80ºF during the day and 10-15 degrees cooler at night, but thrive in basically the same temperatures that make humans comfortable.
SF flower show 2014-succulents - 18
Don’t wait to be successful. Just buy a few houseplants and breathe in nature 365 days a year inside your home and office.

Cynthia Brian’s Mid Month Reminders

PRUNE roses, berries, crape myrtles this month. Buy bare-root roses locally or to order the David Austin English roses. Use promo code UHA for 20% off your order through February 19.

TREES cleanse the air, filter water, clean the air, provide shade, and habitat for wildlife. Learn more about the benefits of trees.

SUBSTITUTE eggplant for any meat dish. Burpee has developed a new flavorful eggplant called “Meatball” with a density and texture that makes it taste like a hamburger, eggplant steak cutlet, and can be used in any recipe calling for meat.

ASHES from your fireplace can be added to the compost pile when you clean your hearth. Make sure they are cold or pour water into the bucket before pouring into the bin.

PLANT arugula in a pot for winter salads. Seeds grow quickly and the bitter leaves add zing to your dishes.

Welcome the rain and bring health and wellness into your home for the New Year because, baby, it’s cold outside!

Happy Gardening and Happy Growing!
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anthurium.jpg
©2016
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Starstyle® Productions, llc
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
925-377-STAR
Tune into Cynthia’s Radio show at www.StarStyleRadio.net
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.

Halloween Spooktacular, Trick or Treat for Literacy

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Empowerment
Halloween Spooktacular, Trick or Treat for Literacy

PumpkinsCarved-Halloween - 6
The season of screams and scares is officially here! Halloween is the time to embrace your inner ghoul. Health Matter’s Heather Brittany keeps you safe during her favorite spooky holiday with tips and tricks.
Legend has it that garlic repels vampires and wards off the evil eye. Popularized by Bram Stoker’s Dracula, garlic not only is effective against the blood-sucking princes of the night, but also fends off the undead, including witches, warlocks, and werewolves.  Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian tells us how to plant, store, and use this miracle vampire repellent.

Special guest, Be the Star You Are!® Teen Ambassador and Host of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, Henna Hundal joins the conversation to talk about Trick or Treat for Literacy, her Halloween favorites, and making a difference with her BTSYA volunteerism.

For some spooktacular holiday inspiration, Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!™ will shoot you into the spirit of Halloween faster than you can say BOO!
pumpkins at night
Listen at VoiceAmerica 

Listen at StarStyle Radio with photos and descriptions

Help Be the Star You Are!® without spending a penny. If you’ve ever purchased a TV or computer screen, just 3 minutes of your time is needed to fill out the simple form and click submit. Every unit qualifies for a donation of about $20 to Be the Star You Are!®. You will receive a tax receipt once the donations have been dispersed. PLEASE do this today. Thanks from Be the Star You Are!®

Read about our SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEERS: READ AT PRESS PASS

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes
HAlloween decor - 3
Buy books by Cynthia Brian
Check out the online fundraiser for BTSYA
Amazon
The award winning positive talk radio program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasts on the Voice America Empowerment Channel LIVE every Wednesday from 4-5pm Pt/7-8pm ET..  Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany are the Mother/Daughter dynamic duo who have been co-hosting this program live weekly since 1998 bringing upbeat, life enhancing conversation to the world. With Cynthia’s expertise in interviewing the trailblazers, authors, and experts and Heather’s healthy living segments, these Goddess Gals are your personal growth coaches helping you to jumpstart your life while igniting your flame of greatness.
Brought to the airwaves under the auspices of the literacy and positive media charity, Be the Star You Are!®, each program will pump your energy to help you live, love, laugh, learn, and lead.

Tune in the Power Hour every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT/7-8pm ET and join our empowerment party.
For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit StarStyle Radio.
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!
Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity

Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity.

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Cynthia Brian’s October Gardening Guide

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Empowerment
Cynthia Brian’s October Gardening Guide

cynthia brian-pelagoniaums, dahlias

“Go forth under the open sky, and listen to Nature’s teachings.”
~ William Cullen Bryant
cosmos, bachelor buttons 4'oclocks
Autumn is with us. The sun is still scorching our soils with heat during the days while the nights offer chilly dew. October is the best month of the fall season to take care of garden chores before winter arrives. With the drought a forever threat, we are all seeking ideas for a low-maintenance garden that will thrive with little care and less water. It is clear that we need to stand under the open sky to listen and look at what Mother Nature is telling us about our future in the outdoors.
waterfall
Visit your favorite nursery or garden center and talk to the professionals. Choose plants appropriate for your soil and sun requirements. Determine whether you have a shade or sun garden, how much moisture your area needs, then pick the plants that will flourish in those conditions. For example sun-loving specimens such as canna, lamb’s ears, sweet alyssum, geraniums, salvia’s, fountain grass, and boxwood planted densely will out-compete weeds while providing you with an elegant, low maintenance area. Plant the clump forming fountain grass and the evergreen shrub, boxwood, towards the back, with the fragrant sweet alyssum as a border in colors of pink, cream, purple, and white in the front. The wooly silver evergreen lambs-ear with its spikes of purple looks great with the salvia and tall spikes of the robust perennial canna in red, yellow, or orange. Geraniums are available in color clusters of red, pink, white, purple offering continuous blooms above bright green leaves spring through mid winter, when it’s time to prune them to the ground.
red bachelor button queen anne's lace
Other low maintenance plants for full sun include Russian sage, rosa rugosa, daylily, and rudbeckia. For a shade garden, consider hosta, Lenten Rose, and ferns. If your soil is extremely dry, succulents including hen-and-chicks, lavender, sedum, and St. John’s Wort are easy choices while astilbe and Japanese iris will prosper in wet soil. A re-circulating water feature, waterfall, or pond will keep the pollinators around while adding a calming resonance in your environment.
purple veined sorrel
Halloween will be upon us soon. Allow your sunflowers, cornstalks, and pumpkins to continue in the garden until it’s time to decorate.
pumpkins on vine
⎫ MOVE baskets and pots to a shady area when Indian summer is hottest.
⎫ PRUNE your berry vines hard after you have harvested the fruit for easier picking next season.
⎫ ORDER spring bulbs from catalogs now for planting in November
⎫ PICK sorrel to add to salad, sauces, and soups.
⎫ DEADHEAD spent annuals.
⎫ PROPAGATE geranium and pelargonium by cutting back no-blooming stems and planting in damp soil.
⎫ DESTROY invasive star thistle that may have taken root in your garden. Animals and birds will not eat it and it must not be added to the compost pile.
⎫ BUY trees boasting autumn colors now.
⎫ VISIT nurseries to check out the fall selection of plants and bulbs. Suggestions in the tulip category include Greigii, single or double early blooming, triumph, Giant Darwin hybrid, lily flowering, parrot, peony, heirloom, viridiflora, fringed, crispa, single or double late blooming. Amazing how many varieties there are.  Make sure to cool them in the refrigerator for six to 10 weeks before planting. Other bulbs to buy include narcissi (and there is an equal amount of varieties, sizes, shapes, and colors), amaryllis, paperwhites, crocus, galanthus, scilla, iris, freesia, hyacinths, muscari, anemone, fritillaria, Dutch iris, allium, peonies, and Asiatic lilies….for starters.
⎫ CHECK around your house for fire hazards and flammable materials. October is the height of fire season.
⎫ FERTILIZE begonias and roses for more blooms.
⎫ GATHER seeds from bachelor buttons, cosmos, 4 o’clocks to dry and save for spring planting.
⎫ FEED your citrus.
⎫ TRANSPLANT calendulas, Iceland poppies, dianthus, forget-me-nots, primroses, Shasta daisies, agapanthus, and daylilies.
⎫ FREEZE or can your extra harvest of fruit and vegetables for winter health.
⎫ EAT the flowers of chives, garlic, basil, mint, dill, and other flowering herbs. Delicious and pretty in salads, sandwiches, and soups.
⎫ HARVEST the last of your grapes. Add the colorful leaves and twine the vines to form a spectacular autumnal arrangement.
⎫ RAKE your leaves into a compost pile. Add lawn clippings, eggshells, food scraps (no meat), and coffee grounds. Stupendous soil will be ready to use before the holidays.
⎫ Re-seed tired lawns using low-water loving clover for less maintenance, and fast, healthy growth.
⎫ DECORATE your front porch with sunflowers and cornstalks from your garden at the end of the month.
⎫ SAVE sunflower seeds to feed the birds as well as to sow for next season.
⎫ PICK your pumpkins at the end of the month and make a family day of carving Jack O’Lanterns.
⎫ SEE you at the Pear and Wine Festival on September 26th at Moraga Commons. Visit the Be the Star You Are!® booth to receive a FREE brand new book as part of the literacy outreach project, “Read, Lead, Succeed!”  Thanks to our sponsors, Children’s Success Unlimited, Michael Verbrugge Constructions, and The Lamorinda Weekly for making this giveaway possible. Pick up FREE seeds, bookmarks, and potpourri for all of our garden readers.
sunflowers
Happy Gardening and Happy Growing.

READ MORE
nook with geraniums
Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best selling author, speaker, coach, and host of the radio show, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasting live every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT on the Voice America Network.. She also is the creator and producer of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501c3 charity.
black eyed susan-lilies
©2015
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Starstyle® Productions, llc
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
925-377-STAR
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.
Tune into Cynthia’s Radio show at www.StarStyleRadio.net

star thistle

Independence Day, Freedom Rings, July Garden Guide

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Empowerment
Independence Day, Freedom Rings, July Garden Guide

Spirit_of_'76-4th of july

Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
with Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® Radio brought to the airwaves under the auspices ofBe the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity, LIVE, since 1998.
This hour is fun, informative, and lively. Join us!

4th of july 2014 - 08table

On the 4th of July, parades, picnics, barbecues, and fireworks are the main events. What many forget to honor are our courageous founding fathers who risked their lives to gain freedom from an oppressive British monarchy. Today’s program will discuss freedom, what independence means for all of us, and how we can make sure that we embrace liberty, justice, and freedom for all. Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian, will take us outdoors to discuss what we can do in the July garden to conserve water and still enjoy our backyards. Cynthia will also relate a true story from her award winning book, Be the Star You Are!® for TEENS with the Gift of Freedom.
4th of july-Freedom
Listen at Voice America 

Listen at StarStyle Radio with photos and descriptions

Read about our SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEERS: READ AT PRESS PASS

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes
H & B flag
Buy books by Cynthia Brian HERE
Check out the online fundraiser for BTSYA
Amazon
The award winning positive talk radio program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasts on the Voice America Empowerment Channel LIVE every Wednesday from 4-5pm Pt/7-8pm ET.  Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany are the Mother/Daughter dynamic duo who have been co-hosting this program live weekly since 1998 bringing upbeat, life enhancing conversation to the world. With Cynthia’s expertise in interviewing the trailblazers, authors, and experts and Heather’s healthy living segments, these Goddess Gals are your personal growth coaches helping you to jumpstart your life while igniting your flame of greatness.
Brought to the airwaves under the auspices of the literacy and positive media charity, Be the Star You Are!®, each program will pump your energy to help you live, love, laugh, learn, and lead.

Tune in the Power Hour every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT/70-8pm ET and join our empowerment party.
For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit StarStyle Radio.
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!
Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity

Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity.

A Dad’s Dream

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Empowerment
A Dad’s Dream

cyn-dad's garden

Digging Deep-Gardening with Cynthia Brian

A Dad’s Dream, a Mom’s Desire

“The most beautiful view is the one I share with you.”
~ Source unknown
Two decades ago, a San Francisco family made their way across the bridge in search of a quiet neighborhood, warm weather, and good schools within easy access of the freeway. At the top of a private drive in Lamorinda, Pam’s instinct encouraged her to place a bid on the first house she saw-a stylish Cape Cod backed up to a hill of majestic oaks with plenty of privacy on ¾ of an acre. When Bob saw the property, though it was overgrown with poison oak, blackberry bushes, and brush, he could visualize the garden of his dreams. Together they envisioned a landscape that would look like it had always existed in nature, albeit, with a little help from a professional. The property was cleared of weeds and debris, deer fencing was erected, new topsoil was delivered, and the design was executed.

Pam's pond

The family wanted a babbling brook that cascaded into a pond. Forty tons of boulders were trucked in from a Napa quarry and lifted by crane over the house since there was no access to the backyard. The stream springs from the top of the hill property, flowing over river rocks surrounded by ferns, hellebores, trailing geraniums, grasses, and a plethora of lush specimens until it splashes into the pool where friendly koi gather and a turtle named Flash sleeps beneath the water lilies.
Off the master bedroom, they planted a formal rose garden in the French chateau style bordered by a clipped boxwood hedge. They kept the original brick patio and outdoor fireplace near the house while creating meandering paths that wind up and down the hill opening unto unexpected garden rooms. Three spectacular Japanese maples and three madrones anchor the design, offering year round form, structure, and color. Drifts of hydrangea, rhododendrons, azaleas, agapanthus, hostas, daisies, carnations, and various ground covers fill the background. The gardener in the family, Bob, enjoys experimenting with a variety of specimens. He has created a berry patch with raspberries, blueberries, boysenberries, and blackberries. Around another bend, he grows citrus, including a healthy kefir lime plus trees of apple, plum, and fig. At the top of the hill, beans, tomatoes, horseradish, herbs, pumpkins, potatoes, asparagus, and peppers thrive. An underground spring augments their watering system. Bob’s efficient home built compost bin resides outside the fence, ready to nourish the garden organically.

table-birds

A retired flight attendant currently enjoying a second career as an actor, I met Pam when she worked as an assistant on my TV series, StarStyle®-Live Your Dreams, and I’ve been privileged since to coach her as on-camera talent. An avid fan of flea markets, Pam taps into her artistic power discovering interesting tossed treasures that she creatively displays throughout the plot. Culminating at the end of the raspberry row, a 1950’s oven opens featuring plants in a pan. Around a turn, an old bicycle bears baskets of pink geraniums.  Walk up the path a bit further, and a rusted children’s pedal car is stranded on a boulder. Rock cairns are piled on an overhang at the pond.  Restful seating areas and sweet surprises delight the senses throughout the backyard.  My personal favorite is the mystical gravel and river rock topped table set with glasses and a bottle of wine reserved for two.  Behind the wire fence with twining vines and ivy, ceramic birds perch on a branch ready to break into song.

Sirah vines with shirly tractor

A few years ago, Bob decided to plant a vineyard. One hundred and twenty vines of Syrah grow on a side hill above the stacked stone retaining wall. Roses bloom at the end of each row, succulents and pots of cacti climb the stairway. Pam’s whimsical contribution to the vineyard includes an antique children’s tractor parked between the vines, and a collection of whirly birds to keep the flying birds from devouring the grapes. Sal Captain of Captain Vineyards helps with the management of the crops while Bob does his own bottling and labeling, winning awards in the process.
The gardens and vineyards are beautiful, bountiful, and bucolic. It’s obvious that Bob and Pam take great pride and joy in their voluptuous, unique garden. With all the stone, wood, water, and living greenery, this outdoor oasis claims a natural structure and feeling of security and protection. Although they both love “the City”, they are thrilled that they took that drive through the tunnel twenty years ago to discover their own personal nirvana.

turtle wine bottle

Their dream of a secret garden has been realized as they share the view together toasting Father’s Day with a glass of their private label Turtle Crossing wine.

Cynthia Brian’s Mid Month Reminders

ROTATE crops. Don’t plant vegetables in the same spot as last year.
BUY summer annuals for containers to add color to your patio.
PINCH petunias and dahlias to keep them blooming.
RAISE the blades on lawnmowers to offer more sun protection and moisture retention to your grass.
PROVIDE abodes for toads by placing broken clay pots throughout the garden. By inviting toads into your garden, you’ll be getting free insect control.
RESCUE thirsty bees and ladybugs that dive into your swimming pool during the heat. Use a net to capture and release to avoid unnecessary stings.
HELP reverse the decline of pollinating insects, honey bees, native bees, birds, bats, and monarch butterflies by joining the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. For information, visit http://millionpollinatorgardens.org.
BEWARE of ticks hitchhiking in your hair after hiking or working outside. If you get bit in the neck, call your physician or go to urgent care immediately. I know the dangers from recent experience!

antique car
A salute and thanks to all the Daddy’s of Lamorinda, especially the ones that garden and dream!

Happy Gardening. Happy Growing.

Read more: https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0908/Digging-Deep-Gardening-with-Cynthia-Brian.html

©2015
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Starstyle® Productions, llc
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
925-377-STAR
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.

rock piles

Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best selling author, speaker, coach, and host of the radio show, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasting live every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT on the Voice America Network.. She also is the creator and producer of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501c3 charity.

Family Vacations, June Garden Guide, Healing Touch

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Empowerment
Family Vacations, June Garden Guide, Healing Touch

with Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® Radio brought to the airwaves under the auspices ofBe the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity, LIVE, since 1998.

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This hour is fun, informative, and lively. Join us!
The family that plays together stays together. Are you taking mini vacations with your loved ones? Does spending time in an exotic locale help or hinder relationships. Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany chat about their recent family adventure and how it encourages more get-aways.

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End of the school year, graduations, Father’s Day, weddings, baby showers, vacations…June signals the beginning of summer and the season of outdoor celebrations. With so many milestones to check off our fun to-do lists, we hardly have a moment to think about gardening. And that’s exactly why, Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian gives you a step by step guide for your June outdoors.

The sensation of touch enhances our pleasurable emotions making you feel happier. Petting an animal, walking barefoot on the grass, sleeping on satin sheets all trigger sensations with big mental and physical benefits.
B,H,C,B Hawaii beach
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Read about our SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEERS: READ AT PRESS PASS

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes

Buy books by Cynthia Brian at StarStyle Radio
Check out the online fundraiser for BTSYA
Amazon
The award winning positive talk radio program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasts on the Voice America Empowerment Channel LIVE every Wednesday from 4-5pm Pt/7-8pm ET.  Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany are the Mother/Daughter dynamic duo who have been co-hosting this program live weekly since 1998 bringing upbeat, life enhancing conversation to the world. With Cynthia’s expertise in interviewing the trailblazers, authors, and experts and Heather’s healthy living segments, these Goddess Gals are your personal growth coaches helping you to jumpstart your life while igniting your flame of greatness.
Brought to the airwaves under the auspices of the literacy and positive media charity, Be the Star You Are!®, each program will pump your energy to help you live, love, laugh, learn, and lead.

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Tune in the Power Hour every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT/70-8pm ET.  and join our empowerment party.
For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit StarStyle Radio.
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!
Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity

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Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity.

Overeating Super Foods, Garden BFF’s, Money Matters for Kids

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Empowerment
Overeating Super Foods, Garden BFF’s, Money Matters for Kids

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with Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® Radio brought to the airwaves under the auspices ofBe the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity, LIVE, since 1998.

Fish and kale are really good for us. But what happens when we consume too much of a good thing? Heather Brittany offers insights on how to eat a balanced, moderate diet.

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People have acquaintances, friends, and best friends. In the world of nature, plants have favorite companions as well as ones that they wish they’d never encounter. Learn the benefit of companion planting with Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian

nasturium orange-yellow

Money is the most common stressor in America yet parents are not teaching kids how to handle it. Money matters and it is important to help kids understand the value as their brains are developing.

Listen at Voice America Empowerment

Listen at StarStyle Radio with photos and descriptions

Read about our SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEERS: READ AT PRESS PASS

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes

Buy books by Cynthia Brian at StarStyle Radio
Check out the online fundraiser for BTSYA
Amazon

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The award winning positive talk radio program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasts on the Voice America Empowerment Channel LIVE every Wednesday from 4-5pm Pt/7-8pm ET.  Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany are the Mother/Daughter dynamic duo who have been co-hosting this program live weekly since 1998 bringing upbeat, life enhancing conversation to the world. With Cynthia’s expertise in interviewing the trailblazers, authors, and experts and Heather’s healthy living segments, these Goddess Gals are your personal growth coaches helping you to jumpstart your life while igniting your flame of greatness.
Brought to the airwaves under the auspices of the literacy and positive media charity, Be the Star You Are!®, each program will pump your energy to help you live, love, laugh, learn, and lead.

Tune in the Power Hour every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT/70-8pmET.  and join our empowerment party.
For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit .
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!
Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity

Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity.

 

Kidney Cancer, Ask Cynthia Brian, Positive Self Talk

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Empowerment
Kidney Cancer, Ask Cynthia Brian, Positive Self Talk
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    with Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® Radio brought to the airwaves under the auspices ofBe the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity, LIVE, since 1998.

    When it comes to kidney cancer, by the time symptoms are detected, it may be too late for a cure. In Health Matters, health professional Heather Brittany shares the latest developments in tests for early detection.

    Goddess Gardener Cynthia Brian has answered readers gardening questions in a column called “Ask Cynthia Brian” for several years. She’ll relay several of the most asked questions from the year with easy tips on how to do what you need.

    Do you put yourself down? Are you always thinking that you are too tall, short, fat, skinny, ugly, or frumpy? It’s time to take a look in the mirror and admire the wonder of creation you are.  Learn a few tricks that will boost your negative self image through positive self talk.

    Listen at Voice America

    Listen at StarStyle Radio with photos and descriptions

    Read about our SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEERS: READ AT PRESS PASS

    Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes

    Mark your calendars for the Moraga Faire, May 9th 11-4pm in Moraga.  Meet authors and get autographed copies.

    Buy books by Cynthia Brian
    Check out the online fundraiser for BTSYA
    Amazon
    The award winning positive talk radio program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasts on the Voice America Empowerment Channel LIVE every Wednesday from 4-5pm Pt/7-8pm ET.  Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany are the Mother/Daughter dynamic duo who have been co-hosting this program live weekly since 1998 bringing upbeat, life enhancing conversation to the world. With Cynthia’s expertise in interviewing the trailblazers, authors, and experts and Heather’s healthy living segments, these Goddess Gals are your personal growth coaches helping you to jumpstart your life while igniting your flame of greatness.
    Brought to the airwaves under the auspices of the literacy and positive media charity, Be the Star You Are!®, each program will pump your energy to help you live, love, laugh, learn, and lead.

    Tune in the Power Hour every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT/70-8pm ET and join our empowerment party.
    For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit StarStyle Radio.
    Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
    Lend us Your Ears!!!
    Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity

    Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity.

    Embed StarStyle® Be the Star You Are!® Radio
    If you are a fan of the authors, experts, celebrities, and guests that appear regularly on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® radio, you can now be sure to never miss an episode. Embed this code into your WordPress site or any site and you’ll always have Cynthia Brian, Heather Brittany, and all of your favorite pioneers on the planet at your fingertips.  Upbeat, positive, life-changing talk radio broadcasting live each week since 1998. Lend us Your Ears. We are Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!®

Ask Cynthia Brian- Readers Request-Anthuriums

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Empowerment
Ask Cynthia Brian- Readers Request-Anthuriums

Ask Cynthia Brian- Readers Request-Anthuriums

 

Hello Cynthia:

Loved your Paradise Found article. Any suggestion for getting an anthurium to rebloom? I give it plenty of water.

Thanks,
Glenda

red anthurium, prayer plant

 

Hi Glenda:
Anthuriums are one of my most favorite tropical plants providing year round glossy green foliage and striking wax-like blossoms in white, red, yellow, or pink. They have become the mascot of Hawaii although they are native to Colombia and are found throughout Central and South America. Although you may read that they need constant water, I have not found that to be true. In fact, too much water rots the roots, yellows the leaves, hinders blooming, and may even kill your plant. Water thoroughly only when the soil is dry. Good drainage is mandatory.

To get your anthurium to rebloom, make sure it is placed in a warm area with indirect bright light. North and east windows are best. Anthuriums flourish in temperatures of 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit and they love humidity. It helps to mist your plant a few times a week, or mimic the rain forest environment by putting your pot of anthuriums on a saucer with gravel. Pour water into the gravel to act as a localized humidifier.

As soon as a bloom dies, cut it off, otherwise new blooms will not form and the old stalks redirect all the energy to the dead flower. Every two or three months, feed it with a fertilizer for blooming plants. Don’t over fertilizer or you’ll just produce more lush leaves with no blooms. Anthuriums also do well planted in a group with other tropicals, including orchids.

In a nutshell, you should get continuous blooms by giving your anthurium the following:
a. bright, indirect light
b. warm temperatures
c. humidity
d. thorough watering only when dry
e. good drainage
f. cutting old blooms immediately
g. fertilizing every two to three months

After I won an award in 2003, my Irish first grade teacher sent me the gift of an anthurium in celebration. It has never stopped blooming, adding the joy of the tropics to my daily life.

Good luck. Happy Gardening and Happy Growing.
Cynthia Brian

anthurium with orchid

 

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Mark your calendars for the BTSYA BOOK BASH BLOW OUT on Sat. April 25th from 11-4pm at 5 A Rent a Space in Moraga.
Meet authors and get autographed copies. Get FREE Potpourri.

©2015
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Starstyle® Productions, llc
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
925-377-STAR
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.

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Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best selling author, speaker, coach, and host of the radio show, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® broadcasting live every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT on the Voice America Network.. She also is the creator and producer of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501c3 charity.

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