The 100-year-old maple that once stood in my front yard had to be removed recently. It just hurts my heart to think about it, but it was diseased and ready to topple. For years I worked on a lovely little shade garden near that tree, but now I must rethink everything. On top of that, my neighbors just put in a new fence, moving it slightly farther from our property line and leaving me with several more inches in my planting bed I need to figure out how to utilize. And I have decided to hardscape an area near my black walnut to create a simple patio for a bird fountain, feeder, and little bench. Did I mention I have a rather large patch of ivy to remove, too? Basically, I have a lot of work to do this season!
Right now, it all seems impossible (and expensive), but once the sun is shining a bit more consistently and the ground warms up, I am sure I’ll find the time and my energy will surge. Until that time comes sometime in mid-May, I’ll makes sketches and cruise the aisles at all my local garden centers. What are your big plans for your summer garden? Hopefully Upstate Gardeners’ Journal is one of your go-to resources for all things gardening. Let me know all about your spring and summer garden plans. Feel free to email me anytime at cg****@58****.com .
This article originally appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Upstate Gardeners’ Journal.
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