HONESTY—IN THE GARDEN

Every so often one reads something that Is just so honest and truthful that its almost a shock.  That recently happened.

For some reason an interview with a tourist information official from Nebraska seemed to jump off the page.  He said—“To be honest it’s not for everyone”.  Oh my thatis a wonderful thing.  One expects technicolor sunsets—incredibly happy couples eating amazing food laughing children at the theme park—but not this time—“To be honest its not for everyone”

That should make anyone want to head for Nebraska—now.  Because you would know what to expect—a perfectly nice place where you might  have to make an effort to have a great time.

And then it seemed the absolutely perfect motto for the Pollinator garden at Raincatchers.

It’s a wonderful area but people who work there—well they have to work at it.  The butterflies and bees and birds—obviously appreciate it but they keep quiet—no rounds of applause or words of thanks.

Often it is said that native and adapted plants are “low maintenance –but work is required and it is repetitive –deadheading trimming weeding—necessary but it can be hard too and somehow—never quite “finished” And without a doubt not at all glamorous.

So—it’s clear now right??  Come and work in the pollinator area you get to see insects and  birds and lovely plants—yes it is work and it might not be spectacular—but isn’t that the whole point of a garden.

It’s a wonderful experience but you have to work at it.  It may not be for everyone —-but—maybe its for you!!  You will always be welcome!  And just like Nebraska—the rewards are there with just a little effort!

Susan Thornbury, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008

During the hot summer days, we work early at Raincatcher’s. Monday morning and Tuesdays you will find Master Gardeners in the garden early-even before 8am.