I presented seven of my top resolutions for the new year on Page 1. On this page, I conclude the list with three final thoughts.
Resolutions for the New Year: #8 -- Turn Plants Into Vacation Memories
Here's another great way to make a connection with a particular plant:
Going on vacation? When making a trip by car, take note (pictures would be even better) of any plant that really impresses you, as you observe what the locals are growing in their yards. Then try to find a nursery in that area, where you can make inquiries concerning the availability and growing requirements of that plant. Of course (depending on where you're vacationing), you may quickly find out that it won't grow in your own planting zone. But assuming the plant in question is growable back home, consider buying it, as a memento of the trip.
There are, to be sure, drawbacks in buying plants on vacation. For example:
- You have to care for them (get them out of a hot car and into your motel room as quickly as possible, and water them)
- They take up room in a car that is probably already crammed full with luggage
Resolutions for the New Year: #9 -- Don't Be a Garden Snob
Many of us "serious" gardeners could profit from lightening up considerably in our approach to landscaping. Just because plant are "dirt common," such as the popular annual flowers, that doesn't necessarily mean our high and mighty gardens are too good to be "soiled" by such riffraff. Looked at objectively, annuals can be viewed as a reservoir of color that you can "dip into" as filler during periods when your perennials have run into a "blooming drought."
Read article: Annual Flowers
Resolutions for the New Year: #10 -- Inspire, Don't Preach!
Along the same lines, when discussing plants with others (especially novices), try to convey your horticultural enthusiasm in a positive manner. We all know neighbors who, sadly, can think of no better way to display their love of plants than by boasting that their tomatoes are bigger than anyone else's. But even sadder is the fact that many plant lovers who should know better lapse into preachiness rather inspiring others to take a greater interest in plants.
For example, are you a woodland garden aficionado? If you consider yourself to be something of an apostle for such alternative approaches to landscaping, play the good ambassador and don't look down your nose at the plants your neighbors buy at Wal-Mart. Instead, invite them over to have a look at your wildflowers, when they're at their peak. To as great a degree as possible, let the plants speak for themselves.
Read my past resolutions for the new year for further ideas to implement during the upcoming growing season.
