The Creative Gardener

Creativity is defined as the use of imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work. An artistic work is one that is creative, expressive, attractive, and / or pleasant to look at.

While writing, singing, dancing, and drawing are all creative endeavors in their own right, we must not overlook the creativity displayed by the gardener. Indeed, the act of organizing, planting, and caring for a garden is an undertaking that relies extensively on the imagination of the sower, and their ability to see a blooming and productive garden long before it comes to fruition. Thus, when heralding the accolades of the artistic populace, don't forget the gardeners!

A Sense of Pride

My paternal grandparents lived in what is referred to where I am from as a holler - an area or valley set back in the mountains. Those who wanted to call on my grandparents parked their vehicles down off the main highway and walked the winding, dirt road that led to the house. In some instances, they arranged ahead of time with my grandfather to ride up in one of his old jeeps.

Even though visitors were few, my grandparents invariably maintained their yard, ponds, and the land that surrounded their home, and in the warmer months, their gardens and berry patches were well-ordered and in bloom.

The lesson learned for me as a homesteader and gardener? Always be a good steward of your land and your resources, regardless of who is watching, and take pride in taking care of what you have.

My Grandfather.

Priorities

While traveling this week, I noticed several large signs proclaiming the fees to be paid by those caught littering the freeways and interstates they drive on, and for a moment, my childhood came into my rear-view. I remembered riding in the car with my parents and periodically throwing trash out the window in an effort to keep the car clean; nothing big mind you, usually a used tissue or an empty soda can. But, enough to hold me in contempt with the harmony nature had established.

Do signs and fines deter those with little regard for nature's beauty? Probably not. They do, however, serve as a reminder that preserving the land we live on is our responsibility.

Tortilla Blessings

The term "tortilla blessing" was coined many years ago by my son when he opened a package of tortillas to find one more tortilla inside than I'd paid for. Consequently, anytime I receive more than I expected, or attain something positive I didn't bargain for, I categorize it as a tortilla blessing.

In my garden, I've learned to enjoy tortilla blessings as they occur - an unexpected flower bloom on one of my plants; the gift of rain on a day that I don't feel like watering; a sale at the local nursery that allows me to buy extra plants; a second crop of onions that bloom after a failed first attempt. Simple happenings really, but blessings nonetheless.

Use What You Have

As spring slowly transitions into summer, I am spending more time outside, working in the garden and on various projects around the homestead. All this time outdoors has awakened within me what I refer to as a "pioneer spirit" and as a result, I find myself trying to reuse and / or repurpose various items to suit my needs. 


So far, I've used sections of old wire fencing as a support structure for my weighty tomato plants and curling bean vines. I've recycled wooden slats from an old playpen and used them as plant markers, and I'm using an old fruit crate I found in the barn as a garden planter. Also, the borders of all my flower beds were created from old bricks and rocks found on the property, and I'm using grass clippings and decomposed leaves for mulch when needed. I also placed a broken terracotta pot on the end of an ugly drainage pipe.

Thus, a little goes a long way when you use what you have. 

Plant Pots

I had a preoccupation with flower pots in my early days as a gardener. Unfortunately, most of my purchases were based on my mood, my finances, and my decor, and had very little to do with the welfare of the plants I was attempting to grow.

Over the years, however, time and personal observation have collaborated to help me make better choices for my plants. Here are just a few things I have learned:

 >Plant Size - In my experience, when you buy a plant, the container that comes with it is just big enough to house the roots, which means it needs to be repotted. I liken choosing a suitable pot for a plant to choosing the right mixing bowl when making a cake. The bowl needs to be big enough to hold all of your ingredients and to allow for proper mixing. Otherwise, your cake batter will slosh out the sides, leaving you with less cake and more mess. Therefore, to allow the roots of your plant to rest comfortably and to promote overall growth, the size of your pot should be a little bit larger than your plant.

>Clay Pots versus Plastic Pots - A clay pot tends to retain more moisture than a plastic pot. Thus, if you are unable to water your plants on a routine basis, you may want to use clay pots. On the other hand, if you're fairly consistent with your watering practices, try a plastic container. You can even buy plastic pots that look like clay pots.

Also, take into consideration where you are going to put the plant. Even under the best circumstances, clay pots have a tendency to crack. Moreover, if they fall off of a porch or a ledge, they will probably break, whereas a plastic container is a little more durable.

>Drainage - Most plants need adequate water drainage in order to grow and flourish. Many pots come with preformed holes on the bottom to allow for drainage, and some of these pots also include built-in drip trays or saucers. If you purchase a pot with holes but no drip tray, you can usually find clear, plastic trays for a couple of dollars. I've also used plastic lids from butter containers, etc., as well as old saucers from my local thrift store. If you find a container you really want to use but it has no holes, flip it over and drill your own. Just make sure you are familiar with the type of material you are working with prior to drilling.


Pots can be ornamental, colorful vessels that brighten up your home or your front porch. But, if you want your plants to thrive, they must also be functional. 

Green Thumb

My grandmother had a green thumb unlike anyone I've ever met. She loved plants, and in addition to the big garden she put out each spring, she had numerous houseplants situated in various areas of her tiny home, which she cared for all year long.

When the weather was warm, however, she'd set up several shelves on the front porch and move many of her plants outside. The colorful pots and green leaves enhanced the normally dingy space, and allowed her to share her talent for growing plants with visitors and those passing through. Moreover, her green thumb left an impression on me I will never forget.