The use of pots can help “stretch” a garden.
By Shar Becker
We retired from the Chicagoland area to Hot Springs in 2019, purchasing a home in the Quapaw Historic District. I joined Master Gardeners in the winter of 2020 and quickly learned what to plant and not to plant here in Arkansas.
Our home had been unoccupied for 18 months, however, the yard was “maintained,” grass cut and bushes trimmed. I would describe the backyard as a courtyard with a nice patio and the front all grass. Only rows of Boxwoods, overgrown Holly shrubs, and a few Azaleas existed.
We started with the removal of several dead trees and boxwoods and began to garden; planting flowers and vegetables. Having done several garden tours and with the mentoring of Sharon Dent, Sandy Morad, and Barbara Smith, I learned more about amending the soil, which probably had not been done for at least a decade. I observed the use of pots to ‘stretch’ a garden and have since hung many planters on our old privacy fence for additional function.
Another lesson learned was to experiment and try again. We removed an overgrown Magnolia tree in the back yard, changing the back area from a shade-loving spot to hot afternoon sun. I had planted Hostas there before removal of the Magnolia. This spring, we will move the hostas into another shaded area.
Many fellow Master Gardeners have been so generous in giving us plantings; “if you want to come and dig up anything, come on over” – it has been so fun! Hopefully, as we grow and harvest, we can share too!
Recently we removed the overgrown shrubs in the front and have a new blank slate to work with. The journey continues!!! Next: Is success with tomato plantings possible?
Master Gardener, Shar Becker, volunteers with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more information, call 501-623-6841 or email adykes@uaex.edu.
