See What We’re Planning for the Garden in 2026
What’s that old adage? “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Well, call us eternal optimists, but every January we like to make a list of our goals and aspirations for our gardens in the coming year. After all, a new gardening season is the perfect time for fresh ideas and bold decisions. In this episode, we dig into our plans for 2026, sharing what we’re upgrading, what we’re rethinking, and where we’re ready to start from scratch.
There are plans for refreshing tired beds to completely overhauling borders that no longer work (or perhaps cutting down an aged stewartia tree?). We’ll also talk through the practical considerations shaping the season ahead. Join us for an honest, behind-the-scenes look at how our gardens are evolving—and how you might approach changes in your own landscape.
Episode Expert: Susan Calhoun is the owner of Plantswoman Design in Bainbridge Island, Washington. She is also a regional reporter for FineGardening.com.
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Danielle’s Garden Plans for 2026
- Add a dead hedge on Hospital Hill
- Hide the shade garden propane tank
- Renovate or remove: Japanese stewartia and ‘Heronswood Globe’ katsura
- Go on an international garden tour to the Netherlands
Carol’s Garden Plans for 2026
- Edit and improve Manic Pixie Woodland Clearing beds
- Add more native plants to stream bank beds
- Add beaked yucca (Yucca rostrata, Zones 5–9) for contrast in front beds
- Update my garden site plan
Susan Calhoun’s Garden Plans for 2026
- Install a gravel garden by the shoreline patio (Pacific Northwest)
- Native plant border and education (Arizona)
Photos courtesy of the contributors unless otherwise noted.
Read More from Susan Calhoun:
Get Four-Season Interest Using Ornamental Grasses in the Garden
Designing a Garden in the Woods
A Deer-Proof Garden Design for Dry Shade
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ARS Telescoping Long Reach Pruner
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Telescopes from 4 to 7′. Cut and Hold (160) Blades. Drop forged blades for unsurpassed long lasting sharpness. Lightweight, 2.3 lbs., for continued use. Perfectly balanced for easy pruning.
The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees
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The Nature of Oaks reveals what is going on in oak trees month by month, highlighting the seasonal cycles of life, death, and renewal. From woodpeckers who collect and store hundreds of acorns for sustenance to the beauty of jewel caterpillars, Doug Tallamy illuminates and celebrates the wonders that occur right in our own backyards. He also shares practical advice about how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area.
