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Even in the heat, the Herb Associates are keeping things cool — with blooming marigolds, endangered burnets and a kitchen that smells like herbal heaven. From ancient Aztec flower lore to jalapeño jelly and catnip mice, this week’s garden update is packed with petals, pollinators and plenty of flavor.

The occasion was BBG’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Party, a time-honored tradition that mixes heartfelt thanks with music, laughter and, of course, desserts. This year’s theme, “Daydreaming,” seemed to fit perfectly. It was a dreamy kind of evening — joyful, warm and bursting with the vibrant energy that defines the Garden’s ever-growing volunteer family.

Think your garden's done for the season? Not so fast — there’s still digging, pinching, trimming, and even tomato powder magic to be made before the first frost hits!

This week, we're diving into two powerhouse herbs from the Americas — one that's spicy enough to tickle your nose and another with a heavenly scent that lures in nighttime pollinators. From nasturtium salad garnishes to sacred tobacco traditions and catnip mice for your feline friends, the Herb Associates are blooming with surprises!

This summer, step into the world of Frances Palmer — potter, gardener and photographer — through an immersive new exhibition at Berkshire Botanical Garden that runs in the Leonhardt Galleries from Aug. 15 through Oct. 5.

Squash bugs are bugging your squash? Crows poking holes in everything? Pinch off new growth to focus the plant’s energy and maybe annoy the bugs away. Meanwhile, don’t sunburn your tomatoes. Also, start dreaming about fall bulbs, weed your garden under the noble disguise of meditation, and if your lawn’s still brown after rain — check for life before resuscitation.

About 30 members of the Herb Society of America gathered here for a tour and interactive demonstration led by the long-standing Herb Associates, showcasing their gardens, products and culinary uses of herbs. The event highlighted the group's history, volunteer efforts and creative herb-based offerings like jellies, shrubs and finishing salts, fostering community and education around herbal traditions.

This week’s herb, stevia, may look humble in the garden, but it’s packed with centuries of sweet history, global intrigue and modern-day health benefits — not to mention it’s up to 300 times sweeter than sugar! Meanwhile, the BBG Kitchen is buzzing with lemony delights, herb-infused sugars and garden-fresh creations ready to wow your taste buds and stock your pantry.

This week in the garden: sharpen those mower blades, sneak in a late pea planting, and save your best garlic for fall — your future self will thank you! And if your tomatoes are cracking up (literally), blame the weather, not your green thumb — just slice around the scars and enjoy them anyway.

Time to gamble on garden glory: sow leafy greens, root veggies and even a risky late crop of bush beans — because you never know: This might be your butternut squash moment. While you’re dodging powdery mildew with neem oil and befriending misunderstood cicada killer wasps, remember: Don’t panic about your brown lawn … yet.

Not all members of the mint family are called mint. Let's look at the origins and usage of Monarda fistulosa, also known as bee balm, and Mentha “Hillary’s Sweet Lemon,” a popular addition to lemonade, mojitos or other cocktails.

Plantain (the herb, not the fruit) and Mexican Oregano are this week's Herb Garden stars. Plus, the Herb Associates have created Lavender Sugar, Strawberry-Opal Shrub, Raspberry-Herb Vinaigrette, and Foard's Garlic Scape Jam —all available for purchase in the BBG Gift Shop!

Lawnmowers have been working overtime. Give yours a good cleaning following Ron's checklist below. Plus, tips for cabbage growth, potato maintenance and more weekly garden chores.

On a beautiful summer evening — Saturday, July 19 — Berkshire Botanical Garden blossomed into a whimsical dreamscape as over 200 guests came together to celebrate the annual gala, Fête des Fleurs, an unforgettable night of community

What smells like bedbugs to some and makes guacamole sing to others? Meet cilantro and coriander — the same plant with a double identity, a tangled history and a scent that’s stirred everything from ancient remedies to Chanel No. 5.

From sneaky garden strolls to spider mite sleuthing, it’s peak season for green thumbs and nosy neighbors alike. Stay ahead of deer, beetles, and the heat with Ron Kujawski’s no-nonsense tips for keeping your garden thriving through the summer swelter.