“It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change.”
― Charles Darwin

Are you at the point where you feel you need to downscale your garden? Things can get overwhelming for so many different reasons. Gardens created when one was young and healthy can be daunting as the now older knees and back only bend or straighten when accompanied by groans or the energy level needs regular topping off with a nap. Personal life changes, work responsibilities, new passions can all prevent a gardener from getting to the garden consistently. You don’t want to stop gardening but you need to do less right? You love to tend to the garden but wish you could scale down the work – I know exactly how that feels. If only the garden could look fabulous without all the work …

Smile, breathe deeply and go slowly – Thich Nhat Hanh.
In other words, do not fret. A garden should not be a cause for anxiety. That would entirely defeat the purpose wouldn’t it? It is very easy to focus on how much there is to do. With a little planning, organizing and rethinking, you can have that beloved garden and still tackle your life. Create a garden that evolves with you.In my case, a garden is imperative so, whatever is going on elsewhere, I know to adapt the garden to that status.This,after all, is my sanctuary – where I come to restore balance in my heart.

Lets examine those elements that take up too much time/effort and get practical. The first to come to mind is that ubiquitous green expanse – the lawn. That single feature consumes vast amounts of time, energy, products and money solely to look golf course beautiful. Such a waste. I’m not suggesting getting rid of it all together because some lawn is good. Just so long as there is enough to picnic, play a game (croquet not badminton) or for the sheer joy of having grass caress your bare feet. More is not needed. Reduce the lawn area by adding new trees, shrubs, flower beds and hardscaping. I converted the lawn in the back garden into a ‘meadow’. It gets mowed just twice a year. Next, stop desiring a lawn that does not include clover, the occasional dandelion, viola or runaway snowdrop. The plants we see as lawn weeds support very important wildlife. Raise the mower blade to keep the grass at about four inches. What hopes of lawn stripes and pristine grass you give up, will be replaced with more time to do other interesting things.

Shrubs and trees require minimal maintenance. In turn, they provide terrific focal points, create shady resting spots, food and shelter for birds, butterflies, bees and other good bugs, offer privacy and, year-round structure. So, plant more!

Between good mulch and ground covers, weeding becomes a task easily addressed. Spending just fifteen minutes to a half hour on an almost daily basis, will be sufficient to keep the garden looking smart. Plus, those minutes spent pulling weeds is an excellent opportunity to mentally sort out gnawing problems, decompress after a tough day, calm an overwrought mind or plan your next creative endeavor. This easy, repetitive effort is quite meditative. Multi-tasking that actually works!

In the flower borders, adopt a policy of ‘right plant in the right place’. Avoid all others however tempting. Raised beds make it convenient for those with back or knee problems. Fussing, frustration and fuming will become a thing of the past.

Vegetable gardens require a fair amount of time and work. Grow only what you know you and your family enjoy and can consume. If this too is hard to cope with, give yourself permission to do away with the potager. It is okay. No one important will think less of you. Instead, join a Consumer Supported Association and pick up a weekly share of fresh, organic, local produce. Not only will you continue eating healthy but, your local farm community will be appreciative of your support. Go on-line and find the CSA that serves your area.

Finally, banish old beliefs of slaving in the garden. Promise yourself that you will enjoy it without guilt. Sometimes the grass may be a little long, other times the plants may be in need of deadheading. It is all right. Ignore the random weed and settle in to enjoy your piece of paradise. The pleasure is all yours.

My meadow in May. Camassias abound.

Close up of the meadow

Creeping Jenny covers the ground in the side path. Pretty and functional.

Raised beds in a potager

Flower beds at different levels

Autumn is almost a pre-spring sort of season. A great deal of what we do in the garden at this time of year is in preparation for spring. We clean up to make space for plants. We put in plants aplenty so they will get a head start. Bulbs are dug in in vast quantity with visions of a riotous printemps. There is a certain anticipatory excitement in the air.
This is a very good time to plant trees. Too often, one gets so caught up in planting for ‘color’ that, the focus is on flowering plants and shrubs but seldom are trees the priority. I think it is clear that we are all aware of the environmental and ecological benefits of growing trees and yet, there is hesitation to commit to the task. For all the expenses one incurs in the garden, one could do much worse than going wrong on a tree. Since most of us start with fairly young trees, the cost of the tree and effort to plant it are not enormous. So should you think the choice of tree was a mistake or it fails to thrive, the matter can be easily remedied. However, removing a mature tree can be prohibitive – it behooves one to take the matter of tree planting seriously right from the get go.
We are connected to trees by our breath. The oxygen I need is put out by trees and in turn, the carbon dioxide the tree requires is what I exhale. We are each other’s life force. It is that simple. No further reason is required to show why one ought to plant more trees.
With that in mind, let us consider how to choose the right tree for the right space. First and foremost, decide if you would like a native tree which will support our native fauna or if you are more keen on something exotic and atypical. If you are going for the latter, just try to ensure that there are already several native trees in place or else, you will be creating an environment that plays host to pests with no natural predators around. Fruit trees are a good compromise! It goes without saying that your choice of tree must be hardy in your region.
Height of the tree is perhaps one of the biggest traits to consider if it is not to outgrow the space. Labels do not always give accurate indications. Do your research and speak to experts prior to purchase.
The canopy spread is next. How wide the tree grows will again be a space issue. Consider buildings, other trees, power lines, gutters that could get clogged when leaves drop etc.,. This might not seem a problem when first planted but as the tree grows …. The corollary to this is choose a tree that can spread nicely in an open space. Too small is equally inappropriate.
Walls and buildings should not be too proximal to trees as their root system could cause structural damage. Keep in mind that roots spread as the tree ages.
Shape or form of a tree is the next factor. Upright or fastigate trees do well in smaller spaces but if shade is desired, go for round or v-shaped ones.
Trees can also be trained as pleaches and espaliers which provide visual interest and function as fences or screens. Espaliers are excellent for growing several trees in a restricted area. Trees for such purposes must be selected appropriately. Again, for choice and technique, do your homework.
Further selection is made depending on one wanting an evergreen or deciduous tree. The former provide a constant visual and is effective for maintaining privacy. The latter changes through the seasons and loses it’s leaves in winter when the bare branches lend graphic interest.
Trees vary in growth rate. In your mind’s eye you might see a full grown oak but it’ll be a while before that sapling gets there. Often, fast growers have shallow roots and are vulnerable to being uprooted in fierce storms. As trees grow, other areas of the garden will be affected by the shade they create. If a sun loving flower bed is in the vicinity, a few years from now, it might struggle to thrive.
Do you know your soil type? Some trees will do well only in the right soil. Water drainage, pH, sandy, clay or chalky are things to take into account.
How much light and water a tree requires are important. Choose and position accordingly.
Neighboring properties are also affected by the trees you plant. While your choice might be ideal for you, it could create problems for the neighbor. Be considerate. It is much more important to get along.
Learn about how specific trees are maintained. Pruning, watering and fertilizing vary.
Finally, think about how the tree will look all through the seasons. Include traits such as flowers, interesting bark patterns, foliage and fruit as you make your selection. Reflect on why you want to plant a tree – for the environment, to create shade, as a focal point, to reduce lawn space, prevent soil erosion, for privacy. Understanding your intention will help considerably in making a wise choice.
As I’ve said in the past, tree planting is a very vital part of stewardship for the land. We must do right for and by future generations. You may not be around when the oaks reach great heights but your effort will be much appreciated by your children’s children. Pay it forward.

Note: A visit to a botanical garden is an excellent place to see and learn about trees. Do go!

Young ‘Belgium fence’ espalier

In search of my mother’s garden, I found my own. – Alice Walker.

Some time back, I had the pleasure of visiting a garden so lovely that my first reaction was that I must be at the wrong place. I’d arrived to meet with a client who had said she needed to do over her entire property. In our communiques, she had failed to mention that there already was a mature garden in place. I was puzzled about what was needed. Having arrived a bit early and ahead of the client’s return home, I took a walk around the grounds.

This beautiful garden was lush. Ancient oaks, tall cedars, American poplars and majestic beeches stood around like sentinels. Well manicured lawns dotted with large flower beds filled with all sorts of plants begged for closer examination. Roses abounded. In fact, a quick count said there were 18 types of them. The boxwoods that edged all the beds were meticulously clipped and shaped. This was no simple garden. Much work had gone into its making. It came as no surprise when I learned that the previous owners had created the gardens when they had built the house some forty years ago. I was beginning to understand my clients dilemma.

Nobody wants to destroy an existing good garden. The guilt alone would keep one awake for eons of nights. But, times, tastes and circumstances change. How much is a new owner obligated to maintain what is in place? Neighbors tend to adopt a certain proprietorial attitude and count on the garden remaining as is. “ Hope you will keep the Smith’s garden going! You are very lucky to have a ready made one! This has always been such an asset to the neighborhood!” Is this reasonable? What is the new owner to do?

It is possible that the new owner has the desire, skills, time and means to keep the ‘inherited’ garden as is. But that is hardly ever the case. One does not usually purchase a home to become the caretakers of another person’s passion. One must claim the place for oneself.

Gardens are never static. Their very nature is to change – through the seasons, fluctuations in the weather patterns, the gardener’s ever changing mind and, the inevitable effects of time. Like all living things, gardens age. A garden works best when it reflects the owners tastes. Even when restoration of gardens occur, they are invariably interpretations of the original. Coming back to that question, what should the new owner do?

First and foremost, the owner needs to assess his/her own attitude to gardening. Its importance, one’s interest, taste, needs and means. Even if the existing garden is exactly what is wanted, is he/she going to be able to maintain it? Happily, there is no immediate rush. As with any new property, it is wise to wait the year to see the garden through all the seasons. This wait period gives a very clear idea on what it takes to keep it up. Make note of what one does and does not like. Take plenty of photos because the memory will fail. I guarantee.

With such a list in hand, add other factors such as budget, time, sustainability, alternatives to those plants that must go – you get the idea. Unless, you are a seasoned gardener, it helps to get the advice of either a professional or a veteran gardener.

Old gardens often have exotic plants. As long as they are thriving, it seems logical to keep them. However, a little research will enlighten you if they are high on upkeep, prone to disease etc. Also, a garden today should, in good conscience, have a reasonable quantity and variety of native plants. This is the only way to bring up the numbers of our native pollinators and pest controllers. It behooves every gardener to maintain the right equation of natives and non-natives in the garden. This is particularly true of large shrubs and trees. With this in mind, the flower beds can be redone. Large lawns can be shrunk with the addition of trees and shrubs.

Gardens should be in keeping with current knowledge and practices. This involves the aforementioned native plantings, application of organic materials to promote growth as well as control pests, consumption of less water, reduction in the use of fuel powered tools and, catering to the personal needs and style of those who will enjoy this space. Time is always at a premium. It then is logical to eliminate elements that demand too much time and energy. Fussy plants, in my opinion should be got rid off altogether. A garden must always suit the lifestyle of the owner.

So, what did my client do? The handsome trees remained as did features like pergolas, benches and pond but the flower beds and lawns were disposed off. All the banished plants were disbursed amongst the neighbors so they could have a piece of the previous garden. Being a chef/caterer, the owner put in a huge vegetable garden – one that would supply all her needs for fresh herbs and produce. Soft fruit shrubs were added. The plots also boast plenty of flowers so they can be used to adorn the tables at events. It is a practical garden but still very beautiful.

I recall the much publicized outrage when England’s Christopher Lloyd ripped up the roses from his already renowned gardens at Great Dixter. He went on to replace them with the vivid oranges, reds and yellows of plants more tropical in nature. He was simply claiming his ancestral home for himself. It had to be a reflection of his personality. This new style went on to become much admired and today, it continues to evolve under the care of Fergus Garret who was Lloyd’s head gardener.

The process of taking ownership of the garden and putting your personal stamp on it, is merely creating an horticultural palimpsest. While the original is effaced, traces of it will remain. And that, is perfectly okay.
Enjoy some seasonal photos:








(c) 2013 Shobha Vanchiswar

So, you’ve designed your garden. The sizes and positions of flower beds, the separate potager, the terrace for entertaining, plants, shrubs and trees have been sourced, and because I’m the eternal optimist, you’ve finally committed to a compost bin. In general, you’re ready to create your own bit of paradise. But hang on just a minute. Have you taken care of the details? Remember –

It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.
John Wooden

A garden can appear to be lovely but in order for it to function well, there are several details to consider. Some are obvious and some quite subtle. You’d be surprised how often both kinds are overlooked. Based on my experience, I’ve come up with a rough list. Here we go –

1. Access to water from the various parts of your property. Even if you have installed drip irrigation, it is a good idea to have multiple sources of water handy. Unless of course, the garden is fairly tiny and a single hose would be adequate to reach everywhere.
2. Are there well marked paths connecting the areas of the garden? These don’t have to be permanent paths of stone or brick. Simple pavers or gravel/wood bark marking the trail would do. Personally, I’m not big on anything that can be painful underfoot. Just remember, weeds will grow and need to be diligently controlled. Pavers should be placed so they are easy to step on without demanding too much of a stretch of the leg.
3. On the subject of paths, It has been said that the ideal width is where two people can comfortably walk side by side. I generally ensure that a wheelbarrow can be pushed along without any trouble. Edging the paths is a matter of taste and style – do you like it a bit wild with plants spilling over or more formal and restrained is up to the gardener.
4. If you are madly in love with swathes of grass ( I’m not judging), and you entertain regularly, bear in mind that shoes with heels are not happy at all walking on such a surface.
5. Now we come to steps. Chose material that is neither too slippery nor too rough. Wood and certain types of stone are best. A friend of mine once called me over to see her new ‘Moroccan’
terrace. I arrived to see gorgeous, handmade Moroccan tiles covering the surface of the terrace and steps. It was too late to tell my friend she’d made a big mistake. Needless to say, this area was treacherous even when slightly wet and entirely unusable all through the winter.
6. There are ideal dimensions when building stairs. The height of the risers should be 7 inches, the depth 11 inches, the width no less than 36 inches and the stair rail between 30 to 34 inches above the step.
7. The garden should be designed to heighten the senses. Plant aromatic herbs and fragrant plants where they can be enjoyed as one passes by. I also like placing plants like roses, jasmine, lilac and wisteria near the house so they can send their fragrance through open windows. Similarly, plants that encourage our tactile nature should find themselves within easy reach of a visitor.
8. Every garden should have several places to rest or just stop to look at a view. Benches, statuary, water features are all critical elements in a well designed garden.
9. If possible, add features like hammocks, chaise longues that invite one to nap, read or day dream. Umbrellas and trees can provide shade.
10. It is best if the vegetable garden is within picking distance from the kitchen and outdoor cooking area. If that is not feasible, at least keep some culinary herbs near by.
11. In your entertaining space, apart from the dining table, keep additional surfaces where guests can put down a drink while they scrutinize your prize worthy roses or eggplants or hydrangea. Otherwise, for days afterwards you will be unearthing glassware from the oddest areas. Balanced in the fork of a shrub, upturned over a branch, nestled in the boxwood, in a flower pot …
12. In planning your garden, consider ‘borrowed’ views to visually expand your garden. Furthermore, try to ensure that the garden looks interesting from all directions. There will be a natural way in which you like your visitors to walk the garden. The reverse walk should be pleasant as well.
13. For yourself, the perennial gardener, keep tools like secateurs and favorite weeder close by. I also keep a collection of vases to plunge freshly cut flowers in them right away. A few not so so precious ones are kept so I can send a friend home with a bunch of peonies and such.
14. Finally, keep your garden as a true reflection of yourself.

This list is by no means complete. It is a good start. And sometimes the end. It’ll do. By all means add other thoughts that seem compelling to you and I have overlooked. Do please let me know?

A path at Rocky Hills

Ready for a gathering

Heritage rose up close. It has a lovely lemony fragrance.

A path that links the front and back of the property.

Artichoke in copper

Walkway made interesting

Wisteria