Garden Writer, Editor & Publisher
About Kathy Jentz
Kathy Jentz is a lifelong gardener, garden writer, editor, publisher, podcast host, and author based in Washington, D.C.
She is the editor and publisher of the award-winning Washington Gardener Magazine and also edits three plant-society journals: Water Garden Journal for IWGS, The Azalean for ASA, and Fanfare for Daylily Society Region 3.
Kathy also hosts the GardenDC Podcast, which has been named Best DC Podcast, and has written books about urban gardening and groundcovers.
Her Approach to Gardening
Kathy believes growing plants should be enjoyable and approachable rather than stressful. Her mission is to help gardeners build confidence, especially when working with limited space, urban landscapes, edible plants, and groundcovers.
Her philosophy can be summed up as "inspiration over perspiration," with an emphasis on practical ideas that make gardening easier and more rewarding.
Garden Writing & Publishing Experience
Kathy serves as editor and publisher of Washington Gardener Magazine, a publication focused on gardening in the Washington, D.C. region.
She also edits Water Garden Journal, The Azalean, and Fanfare, giving her editorial experience across multiple specialized areas of horticulture.
Kathy hosts the GardenDC Podcast and is co-author of The Urban Garden: 101 Ways to Grow Food and Beauty in the City. Her latest book listed on this profile is Groundcover Revolution.
Her Plant Addicts contributions reflect her interests in urban gardening, small-space gardening, groundcovers, edible plants, and ornamental gardening.
Education
Bachelor of Science
Journalism
University of Maryland
Awards & Recognition
2023 GardenComm Media Awards
Gold: Podcast Series - GardenDC Podcast
Gold: Speaking, Live Presentation - Deer & Garden Mammals Talk
Silver: Social Media - @WDCgardener Twitter Account
Areas of Expertise
Kathy's gardening work focuses on practical approaches to growing plants in urban environments, small spaces, and home gardens.
Favorite Plants
Kathy's favorite plants include daylilies, clematis, azaleas, and peonies - a group that reflects her interest in colorful, reliable ornamental plants for home gardens.
Featured Gardening Articles
Kathy has contributed Plant Addicts guides covering clematis support, pruning, and mature plant size.
Clematis Growing
Do Clematis Need a Trellis?
Guidance on supporting clematis vines and selecting an appropriate structure for their growth.
Clematis Care
Pruning Clematis
Practical information about pruning clematis as part of seasonal plant care.
Plant Size
How Tall Do Clematis Grow?
Information about clematis growth and the height gardeners can expect from these flowering vines.