Thomas Jefferson, despite his eloquence, described his gardening disappointments simply as “failed”. There were many. The garden does not always turn out the way we want it to. We are broken people. We are left with wreckage and just what do we do with that? We do not seem to be in control of plant DNA and growing conditions.

In my gardens, some things are on life support!

The Dwarf Mondo grass planted between the tiles… Failed. Maybe too much sun? Calling for all suggestions.

The Milkweed takes a beating after the house is power washed. No caterpillars visit me and I see no chrysalides. Burn Unit?

Last summer, the entire VivaVonne garden is struck by a malady, I knew not what. I assume the worst diagnosis, Rose Rosette disease, a lethal rose disease also known as Witch’s Broom. There is no cure. I sink into despair.

A solution comes forth. It seems as though this pesky weed may be the culprit. It insists on invading the walkways and has a sturdy growth rate, alas prolific. The taproot is long and it is sticky to add to it’s undesirable qualities. I resort to herbicide. It seems as though I singlehandedly inflicted my garden and not a rose virus pandemic. I lose 4 bushes. After a time to lament, there would be sprays, feed, compost and time in the Recovery Room.

The Spider Lily garden had major setbacks with the construction of the adjacent Enola garden. Needs a Level 1 Trauma Center.

This voracious unidentified species is unwelcome in the Enola garden. Any takers on what this is? There are many other pests whose images are disturbing to the innocent reader of this blog.

A time to be born, and a time to die;

a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

a time to kill, and a time to heal Ecclesiates 3:2-3 (ESV)

Dichondra argentea (Silver Falls) may be putting down some Sadaharu roots. This one is gaining its strength.

Recovery after the burn. Graduated from the wound clinic. The monarch visits me.

The VivaVonne garden is thriving. The little boxwoods with my Daddy’s sweat (yes and some others) are growing. I plant olive trees next to the garden. That can preach. The VivaVonne roses have healed. They are discharged from intensive care.

Vigorous spider lilies. Picture of health.

The Enola Garden is off the growth charts. Purple okra, eggplant, peppers, cherry tomatoes, lavender and assorted herbs.

My new favorite treat for my friends: lavender latte. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 ESV As the Holy Scripture promises, the comforts come. Look for them.