back on track, sort of...

So one of the things I am most proud of is my creation of this name-Young Urban Gardener. While I may not be so young, it came to me during my Master Gardener training as I was surrounded by retirees. So my vision is to develop a landscaping company here in Ohio and eventually have a retail store that offers options for marrying outdoor living with an entire outdoor lifestyle. Don't want to forego my passion so to remind myself of where I am and where I want to be, I took the bold (for me) step and here's what has resulted.

when life hands you lemons...

First and foremost, let me apologize for the delay in posts. I have had life send me in a new, and what promises to be amazing, direction. I have moved back to my "roots" and couldn't be happier. I have expressed interest in the Master Gardener Program here in Ohio and unlike the south, it is in the spring-so I am looking forward to that. Starting over in a new place promises to bring me closer to realizing my potential. So when life hands you lemons...make lemonade, and save a couple of the seeds. Who knows what will develop.

clever idea

Heard this tip from a co-worker and I think it's a great solution for a common problem. If you desire annuals around a tree and are afraid of disturbing the tree's roots (a common challenge in tough clay soils as roots tend to spread out instead of burrowing down), try a bag of potting soil. Lay the bag flat and cut an "x" where you would like to artfully place your plants. Plant vertically in the bag and when you are finished cover the bag and the ring around your tree with mulch. The bag then disappears and all you are left with is a beautifully landscaped tree. Imagine planting an entire circle around a tree, with minimal effort, and leaving your neighbors jealous.