A Home Gardener's Journey: From Flower Beds to Cacti
Every gardener has a unique story to tell, from the passionate love for their flower beds to the intricate world of cacti and succulents. In this article, we will take a journey through the beautiful garden of a dedicated home gardener and explore the diverse array of plants they cultivate. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner, there's always something new to learn and appreciate!
Flower Beds and Vegetable Gardens
My journey began with a love for flower beds. I cherished my garden, which was adorned with various plants such as hosta, heuchera, bleeding hearts, peonies, irises, black-eyed susan, purple coneflowers, and spiderwort. Alongside these flowering beauties, I also enjoyed growing tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of leafy greens like spinach, Swiss chard, and beets.
Today, my small backyard garden is a reflection of my love for both flowers and vegetables. I focus on growing onions, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and a collection of herbs including basil, rosemary, oregano, dill, marjoram, thyme, sage, and parsley. Chives also make a regular appearance, adding both flavor and color to my culinary creations.
Winter Gardening and Seed Germination
Currently, my garden includes spinach, broccoli, onions, carrots, and lettuce. I also have cabbage and more lettuce seeds in small pots, carefully kept inside where it is warmer to ensure successful germination. These seeds will later be transplanted into the garden when they have grown enough. Since it's the middle of winter where I am, this winter gardening venture keeps me connected to the earth, even when the weather is cold.
The Battle Against Weeds
While my flower and vegetable gardens are thriving, there's one constant challenge: weeds. Primarily, I'm battling with Canadian thistle, which has taken over my planting beds. These invasive weeds were originally imported from Eastern Europe along with wheat seeds over a hundred years ago. Wind-borne seeds and underground stems spread this invasive plant, making it quite difficult to eradicate. It's a frustrating but necessary part of my gardening routine.
Native and Non-Native Succulents
beyond the garden, I have a multitude of succulents and cacti that bring a unique charm to my indoor spaces. One such succulent is the Echeveria agavoides, which has produced some adorable baby plants. Euphorbia mammillaris and Indian corn euphorbia are also thriving, having been propagated from cuttings. Haworthia truncate, a hybrid chosen as the cactus and succulent club's “plant of the year,” and the "Golden sunset" jade plant, Crassus ovata, are favorites among my collection. I have almost a dozen different cultivars of jade plants, each with its unique charm.
Easy-to-Grow Indoor Plants
For those interested in adding more plants to their indoor spaces, I highly recommend the Scindapsus Pictus Argyraeus. This vining plant is not only easy to care for but also grows rapidly, doubling its size in a short time. I've had to share some of my cuttings with friends and family as it has become quite large. Another favorite is the Alocasia Black Velvet, with its striking black velvet leaves that add a unique aesthetic to any room. These plants are a delightful addition to any home, bringing life and beauty both indoors and out.
In conclusion, my journey as a home gardener has been both challenging and rewarding. From managing weeds to nurturing succulents, every step is part of the rich tapestry of gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, these stories and tips can inspire and educate you. Happy gardening!