Tonya Barnett
Having grown up in a densely-populated urban area, Tonya Barnett’s first growing season proved to be one which was filled with calamity. Despite several setbacks and a complete lack of experience, her new-found love of gardening quickly flourished. Soon, her small backyard had transformed into a lush, outdoor oasis.
Though her formative growing years focused mostly on self-sufficiency and the production of a thriving vegetable garden, an increased interest in ornamental plants would lead to the collection of both common and rare species for the landscape. Today, Tonya maintains most of her focus on the seasonal establishment of a large, backyard cutting garden.
The cut flower space serves as a donation garden; where arranged flowers and bouquets are gifted to hospitals, nursing homes, and other non-profit organizations. Tonya’s continued garden journey is documented on her YouTube channel, @TONYAwiththeflowers. To date, she has produced over five hundred videos, which chronicle the evolution of her small growing space.
Tonya also manages a personal garden blog, and is responsible for the publication of several gardening ebooks related to cut flower production. In addition to the content produced for Gardening Know How, Tonya has contributed her growing tips to the Martha Stewart blog, as well as several local publications.
Plant breeding and hybridization are among Tonya’s favorite garden topics. In recent years, she has taken special interest in the selection of new ornamental plants, which have been grown from seed. Though many of these new crosses will require patience, and may not begin to bloom for several years,the results are often well worth the wait.
Latest articles by Tonya Barnett
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White Hydrangea Flowers: Learn About White Hydrangea Bushes
Hydrangea bushes are a long-time favorite. White hydrangea varieties can create a fresh new look in the garden. Learn about them here.
By Tonya Barnett
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What Do Robins Eat: How To Attract Robins To Your Yard Or Garden
Watching birds is an enjoyable hobby for many homeowners. As with any endeavor, there are a few tips and tricks that can help to determine how many and which types will visit your backyard. Among the most common are American robins. Learn more in this article.
By Tonya Barnett
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Dianthus Plants: How To Grow Dianthus
Dianthus can refer to several different plants, but often it's those spiky mounds of small colorful flowers. Click here to learn more.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Microbes In The Soil – How Do Soil Microbes Affect Nutrients
Learning more about the role of microbes in the soil is just one way to increase the overall health of the garden. But, can plants benefit from soil microbes? Learn more about soil microbes and nutrients in this article. Click here for more information.
By Tonya Barnett
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PeeGee Hydrangeas – Care Of PeeGee Hydrangea Plants
Learning about PeeGee hydrangea care will help homeowners decide whether growing this shrub in their yard is doable. Click here for more info.
By Tonya Barnett
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8 Unique Roses To Grow For A One Of A Kind Garden
If you’re a lover of roses, here are 8 unusual varieties to consider adding to your collection.
By Tonya Barnett
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Where To Plant Asters So They’ll Thrive For Years
What is the best place to plant asters for years of blooms? Click here and find out just where to plant asters.
By Tonya Barnett
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Lavender Container Care: Tips On Growing Lavender In Pots
Lavender is a beautiful herb to grow in pots, planters or other containers. Read on for tips on the best practices.
By Liz Baessler
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Tips For Pruning Endless Summer Hydrangea Bushes
Endless Summer hydrangeas are all the rage, but how do make sure they keep blooming? Click here for Endless Summer pruning tips.
By Tonya Barnett
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Mandevilla Vine: Tips For Proper Mandevilla Care
Mandevillas are tropical vines that add color to the patio or garden. Click here to learn all about mandevilla care.
By Heather Rhoades
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How To Grow And Care For Lily Of The Valley Flowers
Lily of the valley plants are one of the most fragrant blooming plants in the spring and early summer throughout the northern temperate zone. Learn how to grow these plants in this article.
By Nikki Tilley
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Bee Balm Flower Plant - How To Plant Bee Balm And Bee Balm Care
True to its name, bee balm is a magnet for bees and other pollinators. Click here to learn all about this beautiful source of nectar.
By Tonya Barnett
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Bleeding Heart Flower Care - How To Grow Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding hearts are among spring's earliest and most interesting flowers. Click here to learn about growing these heart-shaped beauties.
By Becca Badgett
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Forget-Me-Not Plants - Information On Growing Forget-Me-Nots
Forget-me-nots are easy to grow... perhaps too easy. Click here to learn about this popular but invasive flower.
By Becca Badgett
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How To Propagate Lantana: Learn How To Grow Lantana From Cuttings And Seeds
Propagating lantana plants is easy. Click here to learn how to grow more of these beautiful summer flowers.
By Jackie Carroll
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Bird Of Paradise Plant Care: Indoor And Outdoor Birds Of Paradise
One of the most spectacular flowering plants is the Strelitzia bird of paradise. Click to learn about growing these unique beauties.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Growing Clematis - Tips For Care Of Clematis
Clematis plants are among the most popular and attractive flowering vines grown in the home landscape. Click to learn more.
By Nikki Tilley
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How To Care For Your Gardenia Plant
Gardenias are popular ornamental shrubs that are known for their finicky needs. Click here to learn how to grow them.
By Nikki Tilley