LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

By now, you probably have an inkling that I am not a snow liking kind of gal. A brisk walk down the beach while admiring the “glaciers” or a trip or two down the sledding hill are OK, but I am pretty much ready to let go of winter the day after Christmas. I am fairly bursting at the seams when I spot the first Robin or see my carefully planted crocuses emerging from the brown earth. How about you?
To herald the arrival of spring, this issue contains a fabulous article about spectacular Japanese irises—grown right here in Michigan. If you are looking for beautiful plants to add to your landscape this year, this is a must read article. Continuing the theme, we also have a very interesting article about designing an Asian or Japanese garden, and incorporating these unique elements within your garden design.
We also have an interesting piece about butterfly gardens throughout the state and tips on how to attract butterflies to your own backyard. Like the angler who carefully guards the secret of the perfect fishing hole, every year I trek out to my secret milkweed patch in search of Monarch caterpillars. I used to force the kids to accompany me, but by mutual consent we have given up the pretense that they have any interest whatsoever. Judging by the popularity of butterfly gardens and the growing interest in cultivating these beauties in backyards, I would say that I am not alone in my love of lepidopterology— the study of butterflies.
If you are planning home projects this spring, we have got you covered with a great article about window boxes—how to construct window boxes and how to keep them beautiful year-round. We also have an article about window treatments and what is the latest and greatest in window coverings.
If DIY is not on the top of your list, you might want to head out to a home and garden show to get some expert advice. Home and garden shows are ever-popular venues where experts in the construction and landscaping industries can be found. Our Home and Garden Show Calendar is sure to be a useful tool for finding the perfect event.
As you head out into your backyard to see what is peeking up through the earth, take stock of what you would like to do this spring. Make a list of plants you would like to add or get started on remodeling the kitchen, painting, siding—or whatever you spent the winter months imagining and researching. Enjoy spring’s renewal in the way that best suits you!
Editor in Chief


Rebecca V. Eyke,
Editor in Chief.