An ancient Japanese practice, bonsai is the form of growing miniature trees in containers, then carefully and meticulously trimming and grooming into art. A variety of trees can be used to create bonsai, which is a calming hobby for many garden enthusiasts. We asked local landscapers to share their favorite tree for bonsai.

Butterflies, bees and hummingbirds aren’t just fun to see fluttering about your garden. They also serve as pollinators for plants and flowers. SLHL asked local landscapers their favorite plantings to attract butterflies and bees.

For most people, one garden would be enough. But not for Kathy Dubuque. In the six years she and her husband John have lived in their Ladue residence, Kathy has created five or maybe six different gardens, depending upon how you count. All surround the couple’s European, country-style home; all have their own personalities.

If you have a back yard water feature, consider adding aquatic plants to not only enhance the look of your pond, but many plants provide beneficial nutrients and oxygen. We asked local landscapers to share their favorite aquatic plants.

Water Lilies

"Tropical or hardy water lilies are a must for your pond or water feature.  Not only do water lilies bloom all summer long, they also provide shade and protection for your fish and help keep the pond water clean." David Sherwood, Sherwood’s Forest.

​“Helleborus is a winter hardy shade perennial that blooms early spring. This plant is deer resistant and comes in many varieties and colors.” David Sherwood, Sherwood’s Forest.

Karlene Feldker has been a member of the Missouri Botanical Garden for more than 30 years. Her love of and fascination for the Garden eventually led her to a volunteer position as a “Plant Doctor” at the Kemper Center for Home Gardening, where home gardeners bring in all sorts of plant questions ranging from simple identification to diagnosing diseases and pests. Karlene’s earliest memory of the Garden was as a school girl. “I was so impressed that each plant had a label describing the plant, its characteristics and country of origin.