Gardening is something that I grew up around. My grandfather used to come to pick us up to bring us to the family’s farm in an old City of Greensboro fleet truck he purchased at an auction.
The truck had a white top and green body, completed with a rust glaze. If I can recall, it was a 1978 Chevy with a three-speed in the column. We loved riding in his truck, but we knew when that truck pulled up, it was time to work.
We would travel to my auntie’s farm in the country where there were rows and rows and rows of corn, beans, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, etc. My siblings and I got lost for hours running down rows of vegetation like running through downtown with skyscrapers on both sides. At least that’s what it seemed like at the time.
My dad loved gardening
He would plant a garden at our house every year. The deer enjoyed that harvest more than we did, but after years of watching, I learned than eating the food was not the main point. It was about sowing seeds, cultivating growth, and enjoying the fruits of your labor, whether it was for the deer or us. Gardening was deeply rooted in my dad’s side of the family for years. My dad was one of fourteen kids. I’m sure without growing their own food, the family would never have made it!
Tie this amazing hobby into its purpose! Assuming your goal is likely achievable, like a personally satisfying yard rather than becoming the world’s richest person, two considerations will best drive your process.
Your life is a garden
I love using metaphors! When making a plan, one thing to think about is what you’d like to do with your garden (your life). The second is what your particular conditions (your circumstances) are going to let you do. Both are key to the success of your garden’s (life’s) plan.
Before digging your first hole (major life decision) or buying your first plant (major purchase), think about your goals, wishes, likes, dislikes, and especially how much maintenance you are willing and able to devote to your garden.
The more yield you want, the more work you will have to do, both in the present and the future. I encourage each person to pursue their goals and follow their dreams, but make a plan to guide you on how to get there.
