Question
I have lived in my house (which used to belong to my grandparents) for 30 years and would like to send you a photo of my front yard.  There are overgrown bushes right in front of the sunparlor windows that are really out of shape. I would appreciate your expert opinion on getting rid of those and starting fresh with some new, smaller shrubs (I don't think the old ones are salvageable...) The house is a two story colonial, and I like the cottage style.  Thanks for reading this!  - Kim

Answer
Kim, If you e-mail me directly, be sure to put "ALL EXPERTS QUESTION" in the subject line of your e-mail so that it will not be routed to my recycle bin. I have very strong filters on my e-mail. Sorry for any inconvenience if you have already sent an e-mail to me that was deleted by accident through my filtering system.

Good morning Kimberly,

Please accept my apology for being so slow in responding. I have been on a rather long extended vacation, and although due back at this time, I am still on the move. I would be happy to assist you if you would like to provide me with some idea of the layout (a basic site plan of the existing landscape; soil, light, and climate conditions; and a little about yourself, your lifestyle, likes and dislikes when it comes to plants. Feel free to send me any photos, sketches, etc. that you think would help me in helping you. I promise to get back with you as quickly as I am able (barring the inability to get online as I travel). If it would be helpful for you, you may contact me directly at the e-mail address below.

Yours for a greener garden,

David Ward
[email protected]