Author: Larry Hodgson

Garden writer and blogger, author of 65 gardening books, lecturer and communicator, the Laidback Gardener, Larry Hodgson, passed away in October 2022. Known for his great generosity, his thoroughness and his sense of humor, he reached several generations of amateur and professional gardeners over his 40-year career. Thanks to his son, Mathieu Hodgson, and a team of contributors, laidbackgardener.blog will continue its mission of demystifying gardening and making it more accessible to all.

by Larry Hodgson July 25, 2025 0

Answers to Your Questions

Answers to Your Questions: An Aspen Attacked, a Rose Transformed

An Aspen to Be Saved We have a beautiful trembling aspen at our cottage. About three years ago, a beaverContinue Reading

by Larry Hodgson July 21, 2025 2

Botany

Ouch, That Stings!

Many plants have thorns or needles… but that doesn’t stop them from being beautiful. Think of roses, spruce trees, andContinue Reading

by Larry Hodgson July 18, 2025 3

Answers to Your Questions Weeds

Answers to Your Questions: Purslane and Maple

Invasive purslane Question How can I get rid of the purslane that has invaded our vegetable garden? Even two applicationsContinue Reading

by Larry Hodgson July 16, 2025 0

Vegetables

Harvest Beans Early and Often

Snap beans (Phaseolus vulgaris and its close relatives) are usually harvested when they are still young and tender and when they “snap”Continue Reading