PATIENCE PRODUCES FRUIT!!!!

by Edna D'Souza
(Mississauga,ON, Canada)

I was new to gardening in Canada.... I always dreamt of having a nice garden and my dream came true when I immigrated here and lived in my first home...where the yard was small.

I learnt by trial and error.. the first year I did not plant anything, but waited patiently to see what the first spring would bring up for my eyes to behold..Well, I was astounded all the spring flowers buried undernearth emerged in a kaleidoscopic format, followed by the early and late summer flowering plants. Only problem, my garden seemed too crowded with some not too good plants!!!

This is what I did.. I read up a lot on the internet about gardening, and first I drew up a paper plan and rearranged my imaginary plants on the paper and in fall, I dug up a few plants and replanted them..

Likewise, I mulched the garden and kept it weed free. I pruned the rose bushes and deadheaded the other plants . I resodded my grass.... and used the right amount of fertilizer.. I experimented growing vegetables... it took me two summers to find out what area got the most sunlight...and today I grow tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and long squash successfully.

My advice to my friends is to be patient and follow your heart when gardening...for patience is rewarding... Give the extras ( seeds or plants away) and build an environment friendly garden. Take advice from experts and never hesitate to ask for help when in doubt.

Edna