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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Tricky Perennials To Grow: Perennials To Think Twice About
We love a variety of plants in the garden, but there are some perennials to think twice about. Some are tricky to grow, some are invasive and some are toxic.
By Tonya Barnett
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8 Insects That Eat Flowers And How To Get Rid Of Them
By Tonya Barnett
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Ultimate Guide To Deadheading Peonies – Why It Matters And How To Do It
Deadheading peonies may not encourage new blooms, but it will promote neater, bushier growth and a healthier plant next season.
By Tonya Barnett
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Neomarica Iris: How To Care For Walking Iris
Plant some walking iris in the garden where you want lush greenery and pretty blooms. Unique in their looks and propagation habits, these are fascinating additions indoors or out
By Nikki Tilley
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Gardenia Leaves Turning Yellow? Here’s Why & How To Fix It
Seeing yellowing leaves on a gardenia can be disheartening, but the condition can be easy to fix by paying attention to what keeps this plant happy.
By Shari Armstrong
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Best Astilbe Care for Feathery Summer Blooms
Delicate flowers each year makes astilbe care a pleasure. Plant different varieties for a longer bloom season and enjoy their graceful presence in your garden.
By Becca Badgett
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6 Common Peony Diseases: How To Identify, Prevent & Treat Them
Peony diseases can ruin blooms and even be fatal to these typically long-lived plants. That’s why it’s important to learn how to identify, prevent, and treat problems before they cause lasting damage.
By Laura Walters
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Attract More Monarchs: 8 Best Flowers For Monarch Butterflies
Creating a floral haven for pollinators is one of life’s joys – and monarchs are some of the most precious. Here are the best flowers for monarch butterflies
By Tonya Barnett
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9 Bird-Friendly Flowering Plants: Flowers That Attract Birds Through The Seasons
Choose the right flowering plants and your garden will become a favorite hangout for avian visitors. Try these nine flowers that attract birds to your yard
By Tonya Barnett
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Hibiscus Leaves Turning Yellow: Common Causes & Fixes
If you’re concerned about your hibiscus leaves turning yellow, there are some easy ways to diagnose what’s going wrong, and simple methods to fix it.
By Nikki Tilley
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Identify Common Flower Pests And Diseases To Keep Your Plants Protected
Are you worried about wilting blooms, nibbled leaves or sickly florals? Here’s how to spot common flower pests and diseases so you can tackle and prevent problems
By Tonya Barnett
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Pruning Peonies For Better Blooms & Healthier Plants: A Complete How-To Guide
Pruning peonies is easy, and they often require no pruning at all. So how do you know when to trim peonies? Read this article to find out more about when and how to prune a peony.
By Laura Walters
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When To Plant Lavender For Happier And Healthier Plants Guaranteed!
You may be surprised to learn that the best times to plant lavender seeds are the cooler months. Knowing when to plant lavender correctly gives these fragrant herbs the best start, as this guide explains
By Tonya Barnett
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How To Grow Beautiful Asters in Your Garden
Sweet, old-fashioned aster flowers will fill your garden spaces with color in late summer and fall, and their small daisy-like flowers are a perfect addition for beauty and pollinators.
By Becca Badgett
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How To Make Calla Lily Flower Bloom and Last Longer
How to make a calla lily bloom is a question we often hear. Graceful calla lily flowers are easy to grow, when their special demands are met.
By Heather Rhoades
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Try These Hummingbird Vines: 8 Best Flowering Vines For Hummingbirds
Want to improve your chances of attracting some of the world’s most charming avian visitors? Here are the best eight flowering vines for hummingbirds
By Tonya Barnett
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Portulaca: Complete Plant Care And Growing Guide
Grow a beautiful portulaca for a lovely, multi-colored cascade of summer flowers. Easy to grow and not at all fussy.
By Stan V. Griep
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Sweet Alyssum: Complete Plant Care And Growing Guide
Delicate and pretty sweet alyssum flowers are perfect in borders and pollinator gardens. They love sunlight, but not extreme heat.
By Bonnie L. Grant