Oh La La!

Yesterday, I had the honor of touring the landscape of gardening icon Ciscoe Morris.
 
Famous for his exuberant love of all things plants and his TV and radio programs “Gardening with Ciscoe”, Mr. Morris is the man responsible for Seattle University switching away from chemical pesticides and using beneficial insects instead.

Ciscoe Morris' personal garden

Ciscoe inspired me to be a more nature-friendly gardener some 40 years ago, though I never suspected I would get to meet him, tour his home garden, and get to talk plants in person back then!

Every aspect of his yard has at least one story and Cisco's enthusiasm is infectious. We chatted about plants and soil and bugs and pets and I had a grand time. We signed and swapped gardening books and I hope I get to work with him in a garden one day soon.

I cannot do him, his garden, or his books justice here, but I do encourage you to grab a copy of his latest book Oh, La La! Homegrown Stories, Helpful Tips, and Garden Wisdom. You will laugh and learn and most likely end up sharing his enthusiasm for plants that are unique, colorful, and curious. And the story about the forsythia makes me laugh every time I think of it.

And if you need advice about ornamental plants, check out Ciscoe’s website at https://ciscoe.com/index.html.