I think plants are lovely. I appreciate them in pots, although I killed all mine when I became pregnant for the first time and have never felt like I had the time to try and be a better plant parent. So I am a little freaked at the prospect of taking care of all the beautiful and currently thriving plants in our new yard. I have always lived in an apartment and don’t think I have even so much as mowed a lawn before. Although I think mindlessly pushing a mower is more suited to my strengths than taking care of all these delicate plants that are now OURS!
Luckily, a friend from high school (International School Bangkok, WOOT!) is a published author and plant expert extraordinaire.
Check out her first book, Rain Gardening in the South: Ecologically Designed Gardens for Draught, Deluge and Everything in Between,!
Anne agreed to take a look at my photos, help me identify the plants and have a game plan for avoiding a yard full of astroturf (my husband’s preference). Big thanks to my fellow Soi 39’er! I hope the fact that I have not heard from her since I sent a ridiculous amount of photos her way doesn’t mean I overwhelmed her kindness.
I thought I would also ask you all, who I assume are much more skilled in this area than I, for a little help as well.
How do you tend to your gardens? Do you have a schedule? What tools do I need? Any other tips or tricks I should know? Can I do this?
There ia a huge vine of Wisteria in the front, it’s beautiful and ancient. What do I do?
Can not wait to take a photo of it in full bloom next year. The previous owner told me a story of walking in the neighbor hood and seeing a woman holding a big bouquet of Wisteria and when she asked about it the thief woman admitting to taking it from the green house a couple of street over. To which the previous owner replied, “Yeah, that’s my house.”
Those plants (?) got trampled during the move, should I cut them back?
Are there weeds in this shot? What is that billowy thing? Oh man, I am in trouble.
These unknown plants/bushes are over taking the back steps. How do you cut them back? Close to the base? Is it harmful to them?
I am pretty sure that’s Hosta but what’s that pink flower?
So pretty. What are they? Please tell me they are all hardy.
Oh pretty little orange plants, I will do my bests. Please be patient.
Thanking you in advance for any help you could throw my way. I am a little embarrassed because in my head, I am a gardener. But all learning is good, right?!!!
The top photo is a truer representation of the color of the walls. I edited to add this so you can see one of the thrifted house dresses I got for 2 dollars that I’m using as curtains in it’s entirety. I have too much packing to do to make that last sentence less wonky.
Ahhhh, old metal box you were calling my name.
Paper Dolls for Boys 