Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Springtime and Gardens

Something there is that doesn't love a wall, 
That sends the frozen-ground-swell under it, 
And spills the upper boulders in the sun, 
And makes gaps even two can pass abreast. 
-- from Mending Wall by Robert Frost

In my case--it is water flowing off the driveway that doesn't like my lawn. During the past year in one area the grass has been washed away and a small ditch has been cut by the rushing water. 

What to do? Plant more grass, try to divert the water and hope for the best. Sadly, it is a very shady spot and growing grass is probably not an option.  The spot is along a fence next to the driveway and had always been a problem. So this year the answer is to plant a garden and provide a rocky channel to reduce the force of the run off and stem the erosion.

This garden is adorned with ugly utility boxes--just to add to the ambiance.  And shade--lot's of shade. Most plants being sold right now require 6 or more hours of full sun per day. This garden gets one or two.

I must be getting old. I am beginning to appreciate gardens more and more. It seems that the older people get the more they talk about and consider their gardens and dream of retirement. I'm not sure that gardens and retirement are in any way linked except interest in both increases as we get older.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

No comments:

My Zimbio
Top Stories