Container gardening is an excellent option for those with limited space or for gardeners looking to add a touch of green to their patios, balconies, or window sills. In Lynchburg, which falls under Zone 7a, the climate offers a good range of temperatures suitable for growing a variety of vegetables in containers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, here are the top 10 vegetables perfect for container gardening in Virginia’s Zone 7 weather.

1. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a favorite among container gardeners due to their versatility and productivity. Choose compact varieties like Patio Princess or Bush Early Girl for containers. Ensure your containers are at least 5 gallons in size to accommodate the deep root systems of tomato plants.
2. Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and sweet peppers thrive well in containers. They require full sun and well-draining soil. Varieties like California Wonder or Lipstick are ideal for Virginia’s Zone 7 climate.
3. Lettuce: For fresh salads, grow lettuce in containers. Leaf lettuce varieties such as Buttercrunch or Red Salad Bowl are easy to grow and can be harvested continuously by picking outer leaves. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
4. Spinach: Spinach is a cool-season crop that does well in Virginia’s spring and fall weather. Plant spinach in containers with nutrient-rich soil and provide partial shade during hot summer days. Varieties like Bloomsdale or Baby’s Leaf Hybrid are suitable choices.
5. Carrots: Compact varieties of carrots like Thumbelina or Short ‘n Sweet are perfect for container gardening. Use deep containers to accommodate the long taproots of carrots and ensure the soil is loose and well-draining to prevent root deformities.
6. Radishes: Radishes are fast-growing vegetables that thrive in containers. They prefer cool weather and can be grown in spring and fall. Varieties such as Cherry Belle or French Breakfast add color and crunch to salads.
7. Green Beans: Bush-type green beans like Provider or Blue Lake are excellent choices for container gardening. Provide a trellis or support for the plants to climb and ensure containers are placed in a sunny location for optimal growth and yield.
8. Cucumbers: Compact cucumber varieties such as Bush Champion or Patio Snacker are well-suited for containers. Use a trellis or cage to support the vines and ensure consistent watering to prevent bitter fruits.
9. Herbs: Culinary herbs like basil, thyme, parsley, and mint thrive in containers and can be grown together in a single large container or separate pots. Place them in a sunny location and harvest regularly to promote new growth.
10. Zucchini or Squash: Choose bush-type varieties of zucchini or squash for container gardening, such as Bush Baby zucchini or Honey Bear acorn squash. Ensure containers are at least 5 gallons in size and provide support for the plants as they grow.

When container gardening in Virginia’s Zone 7, it’s essential to monitor soil moisture, provide adequate sunlight, and fertilize plants as needed. Regularly check for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to keep your container garden healthy and thriving. With these top 10 vegetables, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest right outside your doorstep, even in limited spaces.

Everything you need to do for a successful growing season

We are finally in the thick of it: Planting season! Colder weather crops have been in the ground for a few weeks, you’re likely seeing little lettuce sprouts here and there, and you have a glorious two months of planting ahead of you. Is there anything better? Well, maybe harvest season when we can reap the benefits of all of our hard work.

Don’t miss our March garden checklist if you need to play a bit of catch-up.

Indoors
You likely already have tomato and pepper seedlings growing and thriving under grow lights—stay on top of them and transition them to larger pots as needed. Even with our beautifully warm weather that we have had recently, resist the urge to move them outside. The chance of a late frost is still high.

Start okra, squash, cucumber, melon, and watermelon seeds indoors. If they are vining crops (like watermelon), plant them in individual peat pots as they don’t transplant well if the roots are disturbed.

Take this time to draw out any landscaping projects. Are you expanding your garden? Increasing your flower bed space? Jot down your notes and planned dimensions to ensure you don’t overplant.

Outdoors
This is where the fun begins! Scatter any annual flower seeds to create a beautiful flower border around your perennial flowers. If they are really small seeds—like poppies—they don’t need covering.

You can also sow quite a few seeds directly outdoors this month, such as beets, carrots, Swiss chard, kohlrabi, cabbage, lettuce, collards, turnips, radishes, spinach, bunching onions, and peas. For carrots, plant an abundance of seeds and plan to thin as they grow.

Plant any new trees or shrubs by the end of this month—aim to plant native plants when possible!

Cover cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower with row covers to protect them from pests like the cabbage both.

If you planted potatoes in March, you are likely seeing growth. Continue to mound them with fresh soil and compost as needed!

Give your compost pile a good turn or two on warm-weather days. Or, if you haven’t started a compost pile yet, start one—you’ll be cutting back on food waste and doing your soil a favor.

Based on recent data, Virginians’ top three cocktail choices include the Manhattan, Sazerac, and Martini, with the Manhattan reigning supreme in 23 states! In honor of National Cocktail Day (3/24), we’re giving these beloved cocktails a fresh twist. While each retains its classic composition, we’ve mixed up some of the base ingredients to add flavor complexity and a little bit of gusto to your gulp.

Tiki Tango Manhattan

Ingredients:

• Ice
• 2 ounces rye whiskey
• 1 ounce pineapple liquor
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• 1 maraschino cherry and an umbrella to garnish

Directions:

1. Fill a pint glass with ice. Add rye, pineapple liquor, and bitters. Stir well.
2. Strain into a chilled coupe and garnish with maraschino cherry and umbrella.

Sazerac Royale

Ingredients:

• Absinthe, to rinse
• 4 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
• 2 ½ ounces rye whiskey
• 4 teaspoons Earl Grey tea, divided
• 1 ½ cup boiling water
• 1 ½ cup sugar

Directions:

1. Make an Earl Grey simple syrup: Steep 3 teaspoons Earl Grey in boiling water for six minutes. Add the steeped tea into a point with the sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Allow to cool. Store syrup in a glass container in the refrigerator.
2. Infuse the whiskey: Infuse the rye whiskey with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Earl Grey for 2-4 hours.
3. Make the cocktail: 

   1. Rinse a chilled rocks glass with absinthe, discard any excess, and set aside.
   2. In a mixing glass, mix 1-2 teaspoons of simple syrup and bitters.
   3. Add the tea-infused whiskey, fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
   4. Strain into the prepared rocks glass.
   5. Twist the lemon peel over the drink’s surface to capture the peel’s oils and garnish with the peel.

Fire and Ice Martini

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka or gin (your preference)
• ½ ounce dry vermouth
• 2-3 slices of fresh jalapeno (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• Ice cubes
• Jalapeno slice or pepperoncini, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Begin by placing the jalapeno slices in a cocktail shaker. Use more or fewer slices depending on how spicy you want your martini to be.
2. Muddle the jalapeno slices gently to release their spicy flavor into the cocktail.
3. Add ice cubes to the shaker.
4. Pour in the vodka or gin and dry vermouth.
5. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
6. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass using a fine mesh strainer to remove any jalapeno pulp or seeds.
7. Optionally, garnish the martini with a slice of jalapeno or a pepperoncini for a decorative touch and an extra hint of spice.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy martini!

Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeno slices based on your spice tolerance. You can also experiment with different types of spicy peppers or add a dash of hot sauce to customize the heat level to your liking. 

Whether it’s the social media algorithm, a sign of the times, or everyone is wisening up to the benefits of homeopathic medicine and holistic healing (or all of the above), “magnesium” is being referred to left and right. It’s a term that’s become synonymous with overall well-being, much like adaptogens were just a few years ago.

But what is magnesium exactly and how does it support our well-being? Is it a substance that’s naturally occurring in our diets or do we need to rely on supplements? Is it all trend and no truth? We’re here to dig in.

Understanding Magnesium

According to the National Institutes of Health, magnesium is “an abundant mineral in the body, is naturally present in many foods, added to other food products, available as a dietary supplement, and present in some medicines (such as antacids and laxatives).” It’s a vital mineral that helps our bodies break down and utilize protein, it helps our bodies regulate sugar, supports our muscle and nervous system, and helps keep blood pressure under control.

In short, this powerhouse mineral does a lot for our bodies—so much so that you would notice if you were extremely low on magnesium. According to the Cleveland Clinic, most people are slightly low in magnesium—much like the average American is deficient in Vitamin D (35% of Americans, to be exact). Slightly decreased levels of magnesium could cause muscle spasms, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and stiffness. However, if left untreated, magnesium deficiency could get worse and lead to abnormal heart rhythms, numbness and tingling, personality changes, and, in the worst cases, seizures. It’s reported that those at the highest risk of magnesium deficiency are those with gastrointestinal diseases such as Chrons and celiac disease, individuals with Type 2 diabetes, and individuals with alcohol use disorder.

It’s important to note that magnesium deficiency can only be found via a blood test, so talk with your doctor before taking any supplements or making drastic dietary changes.

Magnesium in Homeopathy
“Magnesium Phosphate known as ‘mag phos’ is our go-to mineral cell salt that is an incredible antispasmodic remedy,” explained Kari Wagner, owner of TapRoots. “Neuralgia pains like intense spasms or sharp cramps tend to respond well to mag phos.”

Magnesium is often used in homeopathic medicine to treat ailments that are commonly occurring on the right side of the body as well as irritability, emotional oversensitivity, abdominal cramping, painful periods, writer’s cramp, or sciatic pain.

“In homeopathy, mag phos is taken orally as a tablet that dissolves under the tongue,” Wagner continued. “The tablets can be dissolved in water and taken that way as well.”

Exploring Different Sources of Magnesium

In addition to supplementary sources of magnesium, natural food sources are also rich in magnesium. Greens, nuts, seeds, dry beans, whole grains, wheat germ, wheat, and oat bran are all exceptional sources of magnesium and can naturally contribute to the recommended 400-420 mg per day of magnesium for men and 310-320 per day for women. In fact, the highest source of magnesium is pumpkin seeds, offering a whopping 168 mg of magnesium per one ounce serving.

In addition to increasing your intake of magnesium rich foods, you could also make lifestyle adjustments such as a weekly soak in an Epsom salt bath, drinking natural electrolyte drinks, and cutting back on alcohol consumption.

Magnesium-Rich Salad

A delicious and nutritious recipe that includes dark greens, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains while being rich in magnesium is a Quinoa Salad with Spinach, Kale, and Pumpkin Seeds. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups kale, chopped
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, chopped kale, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries (if using), and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss gently to combine.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and greens mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
7. Serve the quinoa salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors meld together before serving.

This recipe is not only rich in magnesium but also provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients from the dark greens, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains. 

So Do We Need More?

As previously stated, magnesium deficiency can only be determined by your doctor. However, the best way to ensure you’re doing everything you can to get your suggested daily allotment of magnesium is to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet—the first line of defense for combating many ailments and deficiencies.

Is there room for homeopathic treatments and dietary supplements? Absolutely—if needed. Talk with your doctor and schedule a routine, comprehensive blood panel to best understand how your body is performing and the areas that may need an added boost.

Magnesium plays a crucial role in our daily lives, impacting various bodily functions and overall well-being. From supporting energy production and muscle function to aiding in nerve transmission and bone health, magnesium is essential for maintaining optimal physiological processes. Its involvement in over 300 enzymatic reactions underscores its significance in biochemical pathways, highlighting the necessity of adequate magnesium intake through diet or supplementation. Furthermore, recognizing the potential implications of magnesium deficiency underscores the importance of ensuring sufficient levels of this vital mineral to promote health and vitality.

Creative Recipes to Welcome the Season

Spring brings with it a bounty of fresh produce bursting with flavor and vibrancy. There’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of this delightful season than by indulging in a variety of fresh spring salads. From crisp asparagus to juicy strawberries and peppery arugula, springtime offers an array of ingredients that can transform any salad into a culinary masterpiece. Let’s explore some creative recipes that will elevate your salad game and make your taste buds sing with joy.

1. Asparagus and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette:

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and blanched
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine blanched asparagus, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
3. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors.

2. Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Serve immediately as a delightful starter or light lunch option.

3. Arugula and Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 3 cups arugula
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
• For the dressing:

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, arugula, orange segments, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pine nuts, and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the citrus dressing.
3. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve for a refreshing and nutritious meal option.

Embrace the flavors of spring with these vibrant and creative salad recipes featuring seasonal produce like asparagus, strawberries, and arugula. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing lunch or a colorful side dish for a springtime gathering, these salads are sure to delight your taste buds and brighten up your table. So, grab your favorite seasonal ingredients and get ready to welcome the season with a burst of freshness and flavor in every bite.

Refreshing Cocktail Recipes for Warmer Days

The days are getting longer and warm weather has (blissfully arrived), and all we are dreaming about are long Saturday afternoons on the porch with a cold beverage in-hand. There’s no better time to shake up your beverage game and embrace the vibrant flavors of spring. Whether you’re in the mood for a spirited cocktail or a refreshing mocktail, featuring seasonal herbs, fruits, and floral notes, these recipes are perfect for sipping on the patio or at outdoor gatherings. Here are a few tantalizing recipes to elevate your springtime sipping experience, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.

1. Lavender Lemonade Spritz

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lavender syrup
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lavender sprig for garnish

Mocktail Ingredients:

• 1 oz lavender syrup
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lavender sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. For the cocktail version, in a shaker, combine the gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice with ice cubes. For the mocktail version, simply skip this step and proceed to the next.
2. For both versions, strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
3. Top up with club soda.
4. Garnish with a lavender sprig for an aromatic touch.
5. Enjoy the refreshing floral notes of this delightful spritz.

2. Strawberry Basil Smash

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 3-4 fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Basil leaf and strawberry slice for garnish

Mocktail Ingredients:

• 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 3-4 fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Basil leaf and strawberry slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. For the cocktail version, in a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries and basil leaves with the simple syrup and lime juice. For the mocktail version, muddle the strawberries and basil leaves directly in a glass.
2. For both versions, add ice cubes to the shaker or glass.
3. For the cocktail version, shake vigorously until well-chilled. For the mocktail version, simply stir well.
4. For both versions, strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. For the mocktail version, top up with club soda.
6. Garnish with a basil leaf and a slice of strawberry for an extra burst of freshness.
7. Sip and savor the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and aromatic basil.

3. Elderflower Gin Fizz

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel for garnish

Mocktail Ingredients:

• 1/2 oz elderflower syrup
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

1. For the cocktail version, fill a cocktail shaker with gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup. For the mocktail version, simply mix the elderflower syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup in a glass.
2. For the cocktail version, add ice cubes to the shaker. For the mocktail version, add ice cubes directly to the glass.
3. For the cocktail version, shake well until thoroughly chilled. For the mocktail version, stir well.
4. For both versions, strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. For both versions, top up with club soda for a fizzy finish.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel for a zesty touch.
7. Enjoy the light and floral notes of this effervescent cocktail or mocktail.

4. Minty Cucumber Cooler

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka or gin
• 4-5 cucumber slices
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
• Cucumber slice and mint sprig for garnish

Mocktail Ingredients:

• 4-5 cucumber slices
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Cucumber slice and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. For the cocktail version, in a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves with simple syrup and lime juice. For the mocktail version, muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves directly in a glass.
2. For both versions, add vodka or gin (for the cocktail version) and ice cubes to the shaker or glass.
3. For the cocktail version, shake well until thoroughly chilled. For the mocktail version, simply stir well.
4. For both versions, strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. For both versions, top up with soda water for a refreshing fizz.
6. Garnish with a cucumber slice and a sprig of mint for a burst of greenery.
7. Indulge in the crisp and invigorating flavors of this revitalizing cooler, whether it’s a cocktail or mocktail.

These spring-inspired cocktail and mocktail recipes are sure to delight your senses and add a touch of sophistication to your seasonal gatherings. Embrace the abundance of fresh ingredients available during this time of year and let your creativity shine as you mix and match flavors to create your own signature concoctions. Cheers to springtime sipping and the joys of warmer days ahead!

Sponsored Content

The Expert: Dr. Mason Bates | Bates Family Orthodontics

I thought orthodontists just straighten teeth, what is “smile design?”
In the digital age that we live in, where selfies, FaceTime, and zoom meetings abound, our smiles are often the first thing that others notice. “Smile design” refers to the thorough analysis of the position and anatomy of your teeth relative to your facial esthetics. This includes the width of your smile, the position of your upper teeth in relation to your lips, dental and facial midlines, tooth shape/proportions, gum levels, and relationship of your jaws, in addition to the alignment of your teeth and how they fit together (your “bite”). Dr. Bates uses this outside-in approach to orthodontic treatment to create a personalized treatment plan that ensures you not only have wellaligned (“straight”) teeth and a healthy, functional bite, but also a beautiful smile that projects confidence, joy, and personability.

Other than improving esthetics, what are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
Aligning your teeth and correcting your bite can lead to significant improvements in your overall dental health, function of your teeth, and prevention of long-term issues such as excessive tooth wear, periodontal issues, and jaw joint problems.

I was told I would need braces, can I do Invisalign instead?
Invisalign clear aligners are simply another tool that orthodontists use to apply controlled forces to your teeth to accomplish desired tooth movements. Though there are some instances where he does prefer braces, Dr. Bates is able to treat even complex cases with Invisalign.

What is the average length of treatment?
The average length of comprehensive treatment with Invisalign at our practice is 14-18 months, with appointments typically every 12 weeks. Minor touch ups with Invisalign average 3-6 months, sometimes even shorter. The average length of comprehensive treatment with braces at our practice is 20-22 months, with appointments every 6-8 weeks.

At what age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have an orthodontic exam at, or around, age 7. Most often no intervention will be recommended at this age and your child will be placed on yearly observation. If indicated however, early intervention (Phase I) often reduces the likelihood of more complicated treatment in the future, such as extraction of permanent teeth or the need for surgical procedures.

ABOUT THE EXPERT

Dr. Mason Bates is a board certified orthodontist with extensive training in all areas of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign and braces for all ages, jaw surgery interdisciplinary care, and craniofacial syndromes.
Dr. Bates and his team pride themselves on designing confident, beautiful smiles while also building lasting relationships that allow them to love, serve, empower, and impact their patients and community.
Outside the office, Dr. Bates maintains a strong commitment to ministry, mentorship, and giving back to our local community.

Bates Family Orthodontics
1925 Thomson Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24501
434-846-4014
BatesFamilyOrtho.com

Everything you need to do for a great growing season ahead

Planting season has arrived! It’s warm, gentle rain is coming, and we are itching to get our hands in some dirt. March kicks off planting season and now is the time to get cold-resistant crops in the ground and start planning ahead for the rest of the season.

Don’t miss our February garden checklist if you need to play a bit of catch-up.

Indoors
The longer days and shorter nights will stimulate your houseplants and get them growing again after a more dormant winter. If you have any that need repotting, now is the time to do so. It would also be helpful to give them a good feeding with some added nutrients.

March is also the time to start some later-season transplants: tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Aim to get those seeds started by the 15th so you have plenty of growing time before they are put in the ground in May.

It would also be wise to start a garden notebook for the year. List everything that you plant in the garden, including the name of the seed company, plant name, variety, planting date, and harvest date. Keep notes throughout the growing season so you can refer back to them next season.

Outdoors
By the end of March, begin hardening off your onion, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts outside—particularly any new plants that are at least 5 weeks old. Select smaller rather than larger plants of these cold-weather crops as overly mature plants tend to bolt if exposed to low temperatures early in the season.

Now is also the time to direct sow carrots, Swiss chard, peas, collards, kale, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, onions, parsley, parsnips, beets, radishes, and spinach. You can also plant new beds of bare-root asparagus and strawberries for reliable perennials that will return year-after-year.

If you have other perennials planted from last year, remove any winter protection that you had in place by mid-March. Pull back mulch from any existing strawberry and asparagus beds so they can push through easily as they regrow. If you have grapes, raspberries, or blueberries growing, give them an added boost with a gentle, natural, nitrogen fertilizer.

Give your compost pile a good turn or two on warm-weather days. Or, if you haven’t started a compost pile yet, start one—you’ll be cutting back on food waste and doing your soil a favor.

Finally, place a birdhouse or two outside as birds will begin looking for nesting sites soon.

Tips for Creating a Wellness-Centric Living Space

The concept of wellness has become increasingly vital in our daily lives. As we seek to optimize our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, one area that often gets overlooked is our living space. Creating a home environment that fosters wellness can have a profound impact on our overall health and happiness. From reducing stress to promoting better sleep, here are some tips for transforming your living space into a sanctuary of well-being.

1. Prioritize Natural Light and Airflow: One of the fundamental elements of a healthy home is ample natural light and proper airflow. Exposure to natural light not only boosts mood but also helps regulate the body’s internal clock, promoting better sleep patterns. Ensure that your living space allows plenty of natural light to filter in during the day by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds. Additionally, promote airflow by opening windows regularly to let fresh air circulate throughout your home, reducing indoor pollutants and creating a more refreshing atmosphere.

2. Declutter and Organize: A cluttered living space can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Take the time to declutter your home and create a sense of order and harmony. Start by sorting through belongings and getting rid of items that you no longer need or use. Organize your remaining belongings in a way that is functional and visually pleasing, utilizing storage solutions such as baskets, shelves, and containers. By creating a tidy and clutter-free environment,
you’ll promote a sense of calm and well-being within your home.

3. Choose Natural and Non-Toxic Materials:The materials used in your home can have a significant impact on indoor air quality and overall health. Opt for natural and non-toxic materials whenever possible, especially in areas where you spend the most time, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Choose furniture made from sustainable materials such as wood or bamboo and look for upholstery and textiles made from organic fabrics. When painting walls or renovating, opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or zero-VOC paints and finishes to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.

4. Create Spaces for Relaxation and Meditation:Designate areas within your home specifically for relaxation and meditation to promote mental and emotional well-being. Create a cozy nook with comfortable seating and soft lighting where you can unwind with a good book or engage in mindfulness practices. Consider incorporating elements of nature, such as indoor plants or natural materials, to evoke a sense of tranquility. Whether it’s a dedicated meditation corner or a soothing bath area, having spaces designed for relaxation can help reduce stress and promote inner peace.

5. Foster Connection with Nature: Bringing elements of nature into your home can have a profound impact on your well-being. Incorporate indoor plants to purify the air, add greenery, and create a connection to the outdoors. Consider introducing natural elements such as wood, stone, or water features to bring a sense of the natural world indoors. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote overall health, so bringing elements of the outdoors into your living space can help foster a sense of calm and well-being.

6. Promote Healthy Sleep Habits: Quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and your home environment plays a crucial role in promoting healthy sleep habits. Create a bedroom environment that is conducive to restful sleep by keeping the room cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that provide adequate support, and choose bedding made from breathable, natural fabrics. Minimize electronic devices in the bedroom and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Creating a wellness-centric living space is essential for promoting health and happiness in our daily lives. By prioritizing natural light and airflow, decluttering and organizing, choosing natural and non-toxic materials, creating spaces for relaxation and meditation, fostering connection with nature, and promoting healthy sleep habits, you can transform your home into a sanctuary of well-being. Incorporate these tips into your living space to create a healthier, happier home environment for you and your loved ones.  

In interior design, the mixing of materials instantly gives a space texture and dimension. Combining diverse materials such as leather, wood, natural elements, and metal enables you to infuse interest into your home décor. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to expertly blend materials to elevate the aesthetic appeal of your living spaces.

Understanding Material Characteristics

Before diving into mixing materials, it’s important to understand the unique characteristics of each element:

Wood: Known for its warmth and versatility, wood adds natural charm and richness to a space. It comes in various types like oak, walnut, or maple, each with distinct grains and hues. Wood can also be incorporated in the form of woven baskets.

Leather and Other Textiles: Exuding luxury and sophistication, leather introduces a sense of elegance. It’s available in different textures, from smooth to distressed, and various colors that can complement any interior style. Other textiles, such as rugs and throws, can be incorporated for a similar impact.

Natural Elements: Incorporating natural elements such as stone, plants, or shells brings an organic feel to the design. They offer a tactile experience and contribute to a tranquil ambiance.

Ceramics: Ceramics in the form of vases, planters, and dishware can create textural interest and offer color contrast.

Metal: Whether it’s the sleekness of stainless steel, the vintage appeal of brass, or the industrial vibe of iron, metals add a touch of glamor and contrast to a space.

Establish a Harmonious Palette

When you’re designing a space, consider incorporating at least one item per material category in the room to achieve a visually interesting design. Begin by selecting a primary material as the focal point. For instance, if you have wooden furniture, consider incorporating complementary materials like leather upholstery or brass accents. Ensure these materials complement rather than compete with each other. Stick to a cohesive color palette to maintain harmony while mixing materials.

Layer Textures for Depth

Layering textures is pivotal in creating visual interest. Pair a smooth leather sofa with a reclaimed wood coffee table or introduce a vintage gold mirror above a console table styled with a large ceramic bowl. The interplay of different textures adds depth and dimension to the room.

Balance Proportions

Maintain balance by paying attention to proportions. A space overwhelmed with one dominant material may appear monotonous. Distribute materials evenly throughout the room, varying their prominence to avoid overwhelming the eye.

Unify Elements Through Accents

Incorporate cohesive accents like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork that feature a blend of materials.
A curated collection of shells tucked into a ceramic bowl, or a atop coffee table books (see our Home story on page 65), can unify the space in a subtle way.

Embrace Contrast

Contrast is key to creating visual intrigue. Pairing contrasting materials, such as the smoothness of leather against the roughness of a hand-knotted rug or the warmth of wood against the coolness of metal, adds dynamism and sophistication to the design.

Pay Attention to Detail

Even small details matter. Hardware choices, such as drawer handles or faucets, offer opportunities to infuse different materials into your design scheme. Selecting complementary materials for these details elevates the overall aesthetic.

Harmonize with Lighting

Consider how lighting interacts with mixed materials. Strategically placed lighting can accentuate textures, casting shadows that highlight the unique qualities of each material. Opt for accent lighting in the form of floor or table lamps rather than harsh overhead lighting to bring instant warmth to the space.

Evolve the Design

Lastly, don’t be afraid to evolve your design over time. Experimentation and adaptation allow you to refine your material mixing skills, discovering new combinations that resonate with your evolving style.

Mastering the art of mixing materials in interior design requires a keen eye for balance, texture, and cohesion. By understanding material characteristics and implementing these strategies, you can create a space that exudes sophistication, depth, and timeless appeal. Experiment, explore, and let your creativity flourish to craft a home that reflects your unique style.