Saturday, May 1, 2010

My Not-So-Secret Garden

I have always wanted a garden. When we lived in Old Town Alexandria, VA, there was no room and no time. We had difficulty keeping our 3 window boxes watered. We finally just took them down, because I was so embarrassed at how many trips to Home Depot I made in the Spring to replace the poor flowers we planted and forgot about. Then, we bought this amazing home in South Riding, VA. I wasn't working; I had plenty of space; plenty of time; a new Home Depot; a new start. Didn't happen. I ended up paying Eduardo to plant my flowers, weed my gardens, and buy and replace the flowers and plants I forgot about again! But, those days are gone...

I am totally into my garden now! Not sure what happened. But, the garden is amazing and I am beginning to understand the importance of water, good soil, sunlight, etc. My neighbor, Ms. Kay, is a master gardener and took some time this month working with me on plants, flowers, and herbs that "work" together in the Charleston climate.

I have basil, thyme, marjoram, parsley, cilantro, mint, stevia (Talula's favorite), bay leaf, dill, etc. I also have cucumbers, pole beans, cherry tomatoes, jalepenos, banana peppers, and a ton of gorgeous, colorful flowers.

The kids love to pick the ripe fruit, wear the flowers in their hair, and water the pots each evening.

The entire experience seems so simple, so basic. But, it has been a learning experience for all. I am so proud of the garden! It is a true family affair. Michael just laughs. It took me 14 years of marriage to finally be in a space to truly "do" a garden. Now I know. The problem was not lack of trying. It was lack of watering.

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