Cultivate: Garden Insights & Inspiration from IBG

As summer arrives and the days stretch longer, many of us feel an instinctual pull to get outside. It’s more than just the lure of warm sunshine or the scent of blooming flowers—spending time in nature has real, measurable effects on our well-being. At the Idaho Botanical Garden, our mission is to foster meaningful connections between people and plants—and one of the most powerful ways we do this is by simply inviting you to walk among them. The Science Behind Nature and Health Over the past decade, research has increasingly shown that green spaces play a vital role in supporting mental and physical health. A growing body of evidence reveals that walking in natural environments can: Reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels Improve mood and emotional regulation Lower blood pressure and heart rate Enhance attention, creativity, and cognitive function Support immune system function These benefits don’t require a weeklong retreat…

Best Places to Plant and What to Grow in Your Boise Garden As Boise and the greater Treasure Valley continue to grow, so does the importance of creating landscapes that not only look beautiful but also support our region’s unique ecology. One of the most impactful ways to do this is by planting a pollinator garden. These vibrant spaces, filled with nectar-rich native and adaptive plants, provide essential habitat for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects. In this post, we’ll explore why pollinator gardens matter in the Treasure Valley, where to plant them for the greatest effect, and which plants thrive in our high-desert climate—so you can help create a healthier, more resilient garden right in your own backyard. Why Pollinator Gardens Are Vital in Boise 1. Support for Local Ecosystems Pollinator gardens contribute directly to the health of local wildlife and plant life. Boise's rapidly urbanizing environment and…

Boise’s long sunny days, fertile soils, and dynamic growing season make the Treasure Valley a fantastic place to grow your own food. Whether you’re a new gardener or looking to level-up your veggie game, planting a vegetable garden here takes a bit of planning—and a lot of heart. At the Garden, we see vegetable gardening as more than just a hobby—it’s a community-building, sustainability-rooted practice with the power to nourish bodies and minds alike. Step 1: Know Your Climate and Zone The Treasure Valley falls in USDA Hardiness Zones 6b–7a, with a growing season that typically runs from mid-April to mid-October. Late spring frosts can still surprise us, so be sure to check historical frost dates and watch weather trends. Starting seeds indoors or choosing cold-hardy crops like kale, peas, and spinach can give you a head start. Step 2: Choose the Right Location Vegetables are sun-lovers. Aim for a…

Water conservation is more important than ever, especially in Idaho’s dry climate. A little planning in spring can help you create a garden that thrives with minimal water use. 1. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants Opt for native and adaptive plants that require less water once established, such as: Flowers: Penstemons, Buckwheats, Globemallows Shrubs: Canyon Plume, Rabbitbrush, Fern Bush Grasses:  Basin Wildrye, Blue Grama, Seep Muhly 2. Optimize Irrigation Install drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the root zone. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Adjust sprinkler systems based on seasonal needs. 3. Improve Soil Moisture Retention Add organic mulch to keep soil cool and reduce evaporation. Amend soil with compost to enhance water-holding capacity. 4. Harvest Rainwater Use rain barrels to collect runoff from roofs. Design your landscape with swales or dry creek beds to direct water efficiently. 5. Group…

A garden is only as good as its soil. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, or shrubs, taking time to improve your soil in spring will yield healthier plants all season long. 1. Test Your Soil Before adding amendments, conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content. There are many extension offices throughout the valley that can provide reliable soil testing.  2. Add Organic Matter Enrich your soil with compost, aged manure, or worm castings. Organic matter improves drainage, boosts fertility, and enhances soil structure. 3. Avoid Over-Tilling Tilling can disrupt beneficial microorganisms and lead to soil compaction. Instead, gently loosen the soil with a garden fork and incorporate amendments without excessive disturbance. 4. Use Cover Crops and Mulch Planting cover crops like clover in the fall can improve soil health by adding nitrogen. In spring, mulching with straw, leaves, or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress…