My Garden

As the year advances, my thoughts turn from what book to read or which craft to continue working on to my vegetable garden and how many varieties of flowers I want to decorate my yard. Many folks say they know Spring is near when their Gurney’s catalog arrives. I know I can spend hours looking at the colorful pictures and reading descriptions and prices. Then there’s the list to write and rewrite over and over again.

While looking at the catalog, memories surface of gardens and flowers of years past. Like the year I planted a large ring of Sweet Williams around a tree in my folks’ yard. They were to the point of blooming. I was sweeping the floor in my parents’ bedroom when I happened to glance out the window only to see my flowers no longer existed. At supper I asked if anyone knew why the plants I had so carefully planted and tended were gone.

My brother asked, “Do you mean the tree by the sidewalk?” “Yes,” I answered. “Oh,” came his reply. “I thought they were weeds so I mowed them down.”

For a very long time, my husband and I had to be careful about water usage. So when it came garden time, I had the idea to sanitize empty whiskey bottles, fill them with water, and push them neck down next to each tomato, pepper, and cucumber plant, then dug a shallow trench along the rows of the rest of the vegetables.

The work it took was rewarded with a bounteous supply of fresh vegetables and for canning for winter’s use.

Being able to plant vegetables and flowers can do a great deal for a person. It eases tension, helps you to clear your mind, gives you an appreciation for what you raise. It quiets your soul and brings you peace.

Planting also reminds you there is hope and new life.