Traveling to Scottsdale with the Digging In Association

"Twinning" with designer Julie Cameron of Porch POP in Cincinatti, Ohio

After a year of connecting through screens, chats, and shared inspiration, I finally packed my bags and headed to Scottsdale, Arizona my our first in-person gathering with members of the Digging In Association of Professional Container Gardeners. It was wonderful meeting people I’ve grown alongside this past year, surrounded by the energetic force of the desert.

The winter gathering delivered on every level. We spent our days immersed in thoughtful, practical, and inspiring sessions led by voices from across the horticultural industry. One standout was a container design workshop with Howard Nemeroff of Plant Parenting, who shared approachable, design-forward techniques that reinforced what I love most about container gardening. From color theory to structure and seasonal transitions, the sessions left me energized and full of ideas to bring back to you in Wilmington. Another highlight of the trip was a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, where the desert landscape reminded me just how resilient some plants can be!

I also carved out time to visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, and it ended up being one of the most meaningful experiences of the trip. Walking through the property, I was struck by how closely Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture mirrors the principles of great garden and container design. The integration of structure with landscape, the respect for natural materials, the way spaces flow rather than complete. Just as a well-designed container, Taliesin West exists in conversation with its environment.

I came home full of gratitude, fresh ideas, and excitement for what’s ahead. The trip was a reminder of just how talented and generous the horticultural community is. Being in a room with fellow container gardeners, each pushing the craft forward in their own way, was incredibly exciting. Here’s to more travel, more collaboration, and more beautiful containers rooted in thoughtful design!