Gardening has certainly changed in the last 30 years. The trees planted 30 years ago now shade the once-sunny garden spot. Most of us gardeners have moved and changed positions of plants we once thought were in the perfect spot. The only way we could remember how it was is to look back at pictures that documented each year. Now apps can mark garden progress. YouTube gives us multiple opinions and solutions. Gardening solutions are at your fingertips on the internet. I still pull books off the shelf for advice.

Even though the passion is still there the aging process has dictated different versions of how we garden. Garden size has been reimagined. Aggressive tilling is now discouraged as it disrupts the ecosystem below the surface which is beneficial to healthy plant growth. Emphasis now is on sustainable practices to preserve our natural resources.

Vessels to collect rain water are being promoted. We have learned that heavily planted gardens eliminate much of the weeding. Planting insect friendly native plants encourages pollination. Beneficial insects are embraced.

Instead of commercial fertilizer, homemade compost is promoted as a healthy growing medium. In the last few years vermiculture (worm composting) is being used in many gardens. Red worms break down organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer. Raised beds now help control soil type and define areas. Ornamental grasses are much used to withstand dry conditions.

As the cost of plants increases many choose to swap with friends. Established perennials divide easily. We have come to realize that container gardening can satisfy our planting needs for almost anything and can be easily accessed from the house.
Thirty years have given us many new perspectives on gardening. Still the longstanding enjoyment will continue to feed our soul and always give us so much to look forward to.

A friend once said to me, “garden as if you will live forever.”