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We’ve been writing about Tama Matsuoka Wong for greater than a decade—first in 2013 once we joined her for a foraging (and consuming) journey on her 28-acre property in Hunterdon County, NJ, then once more in 2017 when she co-authored the cookbook Scraps, Wilt + Weeds with Danish chef Mads Refslund (of Noma fame). And extra lately, earlier this yr, we had been swept up by her new e-book, Into the Weeds, which lays out her “wild and visionary means of gardening.”
All of which is to say, we’re unabashed followers—of her forage-focused recipes, of her let-nature-take-the-wheel gardening philosophy, of her ardour for vegetation which might be typically misunderstood and loathed. “Some are ecologically invasive vegetation, some are simply strange backyard weeds, and a few are native vegetation that aren’t on the checklist of showy ornamentals however are a part of a vibrant pure plant group,” she says.
Under, the self-described “backyard contrarian” shares why she thinks planting doesn’t should be part of gardening, which instrument she makes use of to keep up her meadow, and why she at all times has crates in her backyard.
Images courtesy of Tama Matsuoka Wong.
Your first backyard reminiscence:
In New Jersey, mucking about within the backyard filth with my mom, and selecting wild berries. My mom grew up in Hawaii, climbing coconut bushes and she or he at all times instructed me she cherished the texture of the earth in her fingers.
Backyard-related e-book you come to repeatedly:
It’s an oldie however goodie: Invoice Cullina’s Native Timber, Shrubs & Vines: A Information to Utilizing, Rising, and Propagating American Woody Crops. I nonetheless have my dog-eared model of Weeds of the Northeast by Richard Uva. I’ve additionally learn a number of instances H is for Hawk by British creator Helen Macdonald and My Wild Backyard: Notes from a Author’s Eden by Israeli author Meir Shalev. They encourage me. And, after all, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Instagram account that evokes you:
@andrew_the_arborist. @minh_ngoc.
Describe in three phrases your backyard aesthetic.
Wild, wonder-filled, wabi-sabi.
Plant that makes you swoon:
A survivor plant in its pure habitat and group: whether or not desert, chaparrel, lavatory, pine barrens, highlands, low nation.
Plant that makes you wish to run the opposite means:
Callery pear tree (bradford pear tree).
Favourite go-to plant:
Rhus typhina (staghorn sumac).
Hardest gardening lesson you’ve discovered:
Nothing is perpetually. Crops thrive when and the place the situations are uniquely suited. We will’t over-think, over-design, and over-control these situations, particularly now with altering and surprising climate situations. Simply be grateful when a plant has a tremendous yr.
Unpopular gardening opinion:
My mission will not be standard: Weeds, by definition are usually not standard.
Gardening or design pattern that should go:
The concept that every thing in a backyard must be planted, that we have to “set up” a panorama.
Favourite gardening hack:
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I found her perspective on invasive species thought-provoking. While many view them negatively, it’s valuable to consider their ecological impacts and how they can be integrated into our understanding of biodiversity within gardens.
It’s interesting to see how Tama Matsuoka Wong’s gardening philosophy encourages a more natural approach. Embracing weeds as part of the ecosystem certainly challenges traditional gardening norms, which can be refreshing and educational.
It’s interesting to read about Tama’s foraging adventures and her unique approach to gardening. Her recommendations for books also provide valuable insights into plant care and understanding native species. A great read overall.
I appreciate the focus on native plants and their roles in local ecosystems. Tama’s insights about not needing to plant everything in a garden can lead to more sustainable practices that benefit both the gardener and the environment.
I found it intriguing how Tama refers to herself as a ‘garden contrarian.’ Her approach highlights the importance of biodiversity and the need to rethink our gardening methods. This article encourages deeper reflection on our relationship with nature.
Tama Matsuoka Wong’s perspective on gardening is quite refreshing. The idea of letting nature take its course rather than imposing strict control resonates with many. I appreciate how she embraces plants that others often overlook.
The article sheds light on a different side of gardening that many might not consider. Tama’s thoughts on weeds and their ecological role challenge traditional views, which can lead to more sustainable practices in our own gardens.
The mention of her favorite gardening books provides great recommendations for those looking to deepen their understanding of natural gardening. It’s fascinating how literature can inspire practical applications in our own backyards.
Tama’s foraged recipes sound intriguing, especially the use of staghorn sumac. It highlights the connection between food and nature, encouraging us to explore what we can find in our surroundings rather than relying solely on store-bought ingredients.
Tama Matsuoka Wong’s insights into the complexities of gardening remind us that not all plants need to be cultivated in a conventional manner. It’s an eye-opening perspective that could influence how we view our outdoor spaces.