My home is my garden now for over 30 years. Heavily wooded on two sides. I have loved planting every single plant, finding what would pop against the dark background of woods. It made me sort of an expert on shade loving plants. After two lots on two sides were cleared, many plants were lost in just a season or two. Others died slow depressing and hopeless deaths, as I tried in vain to help them adapt. Then the vacant lots turned into factories of every weed imaginable, blowing thru the air like a light falling snow, as I watched with no idea how I would ever have the energy to battle such a huge war. I spent a few years just giving up. Not having a reason to go wander the gardens for new growth or new flowers was so missed. I found this forum, and it has flipped a switch. I have to work much harder, but I can pull this garden back together somehow. Thank you so much for this, all. I won't be planting new things this year or next. I will be weeding, watching how the soil has changed, what new bugs I am sure are festering, weeding some more, and looking here for support. But for the first time in years, I think I can do it. Thank you. This is giving me back a joy I dearly missed.

Time to weed a little. Happy Saturday!