Martha Stewart, the renowned home and lifestyle expert, marks another milestone in her illustrious career with the release of her 101st book, "Martha Stewart's Gardening Handbook: The Essential Guide to Designing, Planting, and Growing."
The 83-year-old entrepreneur's latest work serves as a comprehensive guide for both novice and experienced gardeners, offering practical advice on growing produce, arranging flowers, and designing outdoor spaces. The book represents a departure from her earlier gardening publications, providing year-round guidance rather than following a month-by-month approach.
Stewart's passion for gardening traces back to her early childhood, when she first learned to tend plants with her father. "The garden was my refuge," she recalls, describing her modest beginnings with a fifth of an acre behind her family home.
The new handbook emphasizes sustainable practices, including water conservation and the use of native plants. Stewart advocates for the "right plant, right place" philosophy, encouraging gardeners to select species naturally suited to their local environment.
In a touching personal note, Stewart reveals how gardening helps her honor family memories. She dedicated a ten-acre maple woodland to her late sister Laura, creating a living memorial where family members can visit and remember their loved one.
Despite her celebrity status, Stewart shares surprisingly relatable gardening experiences, including her initial struggles to join local garden clubs. She admits that competitive spirit exists among gardeners, though she believes the joy of gardening should transcend rivalry.
The book also addresses common challenges faced by home gardeners, from managing plant growth to dealing with persistent squirrels - for which Stewart offers an unexpected solution: "Get a dog."
Stewart's latest project in Bedford showcases her ongoing enthusiasm for gardening. She recently planted over 80,000 bulbs along her property's roadside, demonstrating that even after decades in the field, she continues to pursue ambitious gardening projects with characteristic zeal.