As the days grow shorter and cooler, many of us find ourselves spending more time indoors, craving warmth and comfort. While the beauty of our gardens may rest through the winter, nature has a way of coming inside with us—through scents, textures, and intentional moments. One simple yet powerful way…
As October settles in, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about harvesting the last of your lavender before the winter weather approaches. While most gardeners are very familiar with using the aromatic flowers, don’t overlook the versatility of lavender leaves. Though less potent than the blooms, lavender leaves still…
Fall is the perfect time to plant a butterfly-friendly garden here in Sacramento. With warm soil and mild weather extending well into November, your plants will have plenty of time to establish roots before the cooler months of winter and the heat of next summer. At The Secret Garden, we…
Get ready to flutter into a world of vibrant colors and delicate wings at The Secret Garden’s much-anticipated Annual Butterfly Fest! This year, we’re celebrating the enchanting Gulf Fritillary butterfly over two consecutive weekends: September 14/15 and September 21/22. Whether you’re a seasoned butterfly enthusiast or just looking for a…
Here in Elk Grove, our hot summers and love for drought-tolerant plants make succulents and cacti the perfect addition to our gardens. However, even these resilient beauties can fall prey to pest problems. Today, we’ll address common pests that afflict succulents, their causes, and how you can treat them using…
Recently I overheard two workshop attendees discussing how they didn’t really know how to use mint in their cooking. Hearing that made me very grateful that I’ve been exposed to Mediterranean style cuisine through my husband’s family and have learned how to easily incorporate mint into more than just jelly…
As temperatures soar this July, the act of (or even the idea of) maintaining a lush and vibrant garden can be challenging. Long periods of hot, dry temperatures can be a challenge, especially when water conservation is a priority. But don’t let the heat discourage you from having a beautiful…
June is a vibrant month in our gardens, bursting with the lush growth of a variety of herbs. At The Secret Garden and at home, we’ve been busy harvesting these green treasures and hanging them to dry, ensuring their wonderful flavors and benefits are preserved for months to come. Follow…
Enhance Your Outdoor Spaces: The Benefits of Adding a Water Feature Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by the soothing sound of trickling water, the sight of glistening reflections, and the sense of tranquility that only the sound of water can bring. Adding a water feature to your…
Succulents are adored for their unique beauty, resilience, and low maintenance requirements. However, even these hardy plants have specific needs when it comes to sun exposure, especially in our Sacramento climate. At The Secret Garden, we carefully curate our succulent selection to ensure they thrive in our region’s 9b climate.…