Imagination, creative reuse, and spirited fun turned an empty backyard into a sensory voyage. In their San Antonio garden, Jeffrey Harris and Kevin George outlined circular paths that amble from vibrant poolside color to tranquil conversation nooks.

Liz Pfluger from Green ‘n Growing nursery in Pflugerville spotlights native plants geared for the Blackland Prairie that cross over to rockier soils in the Hill Country. Plants include: Indian blanket, big bluestem, little bluestem, bushy bluestem, blue grama, purple skullcap, Artemisia ludoviciana, coralberry, elbow bush and Carolina buckthorn. We ran out of time to include other reliable plants: pink evening primrose, snake herb (ground cover for shade), and prairie verbena. 

Cool off with delicious herb infused honey and sun tea! Caroline Riley from Mutable Earth Botanicals and Whole Life Learning Center heads to the garden for wonderfully aromatic and healthful tulsi, mints, lemon balm and hibiscus. Dried herbs go into honey and when it’s ready, scoop some of the strained herbs and honey into a large jar. Add water, toss in more herbs and flowers, and let summer’s heat make your refreshing tea!