Better Late Than Never

A friend of mine was eager to plant his small terrace garden, but time was limited and that is when I stepped in to help.  It’s a little late in the season, but as I always say, better late than never.  I am always helping friends with their gardens because I thrive in the creative process.

I’m one to travel around, always attempting to get my money’s worth. I typically start with Home Depot and Lowe’s for the basics. From there I go to farmers' markets, farms and roadside stands. A nursery is usually my last stop, and typically just for more exotic flowers.

I often hear nurseries are better because plants are healthier. I couldn’t disagree more. I’ve created some masterful gardens over the years with 'cheepy cheap' plants and flowers. What might look unattractive to you is always a challenge waiting for me. I’ve been known to resurrect plants from the dead, but don’t call me God. The more love and care you give, the better the outcome (you might try applying this to the human condition too, but I digress).

The garden is a little sparse, and my friend likes it that way, pruning as the weeks pass, while watching it expand and buildup over time. Me – I’m an extremist, but the good kind. I like to buy plants full-grown and grow others from seeds. From spring to summer and part of fall, I want beauty every day, which is another reason why I purchase larger plants from the start, with an abundance of flowers. That doesn’t mean I work any less.

Everyone has a unique perspective on what they want to accomplish in a garden. However, we must always be practical. Depending on your budget, I often think it’s better to buy a few nice pots, creating lush colorful arrangements to accent your outdoor space instead of buying multiple small plants and having a thin garden. Too many people do the latter becoming bored halfway in, which in the long run doesn’t enhance the neighborhood. At times it just looks like an eyesore.

I appreciate the efforts of all. I really do! We should always begin small and like the flowers we cultivate, we must seek their wisdom – in other words 'grow' a garden over time. Just like the many other responsibilities we have in life, a garden deserves (like all living things) the same amount of love, care and attention.

Always, always be practical with your approach and know your limitations. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and try collaborating with a friend or neighbor. If you split the cost, you can do more.

I’ve enjoyed many types of gardens over the years – indoor, water, herb, patio, vegetable, wildflower and container – and theme gardens that attract butterflies, birds and other wildlife.  One of my favorites is an English garden, but that requires more space, more time and a bigger commitment. Still, I am content with what I have, because for me the experience of gardening is about the exercise, arranging, fragrance of the flowers, and sitting back after all the hard work is done to feast my eyes on beautiful colors.

Gardening in any capacity is a soothing hobby. It reduces stress, and isn’t that purpose enough?  However, there are many more important reasons. It gives you an opportunity to be outdoors enjoying the fresh air, which will aid in your ability to absorb vitamin D to help build strong bones. It provides exercise for your upper body too.

There are some of us who naturally have a green thumb. I’m lucky to be one of those people. However, with a little reading, understanding, time and commitment you can also acquire a green thumb. For those reluctant to garden, you are part of the gardening process too. We need you to survey our work and inspire us with your compliments. To gardeners everywhere, I wish you the greenest of thumbs. – paerki