After a summer of feeling overwhemled by heat, drought and age, I got out there Sunday morning and dug out a pair of dying 23-year-old 'Crimson Pygmy' barberries. One left to deal with down the road. Thanks to my garden guru, Jutta, for turning me on to the Rootslayer shovel which made the job much easier. (Actually took three different shovels to get them out.)
I'm glad to be rid of these invasive plants but even happier at the empty space. It is one more location where plantings have grown up and hidden the rocks that we love and worked so hard to add to the garden. I've got some ideas about what to plant next but I definitely want to make sure the rocks will remain visible.
Well done. I bet it feels good to have that job tackled! Your rocks are splendid. I'd want to show them off, too. So, what plant(s) are you thinking about placing there?
Posted by: Old Lady Gardener | Thursday, October 05, 2023 at 05:41 PM
You are an inspiration! Lately, I have been feeling overwhelmed by age too, despite my adamant insistence that I will not capitulate to it and give power to it. Still, it creeps about, whispering that I can't do this and I can't do that. And there you stand, looking radiant and victorious. Well, if you can, then I should certainly at least try. Well done, you! I am very curious as to what you have planned. Any details you care to share?
Posted by: Elizabeth | Thursday, October 05, 2023 at 10:07 PM
The Rootslayer is great. A friend dug out some of my pink Muhly grass for a steep slope where she is the gardener. I offered my Rootslayer but she stuck with hers because she sharpens it! I haven't investigated that yet but it's on my list. Right there with you on the heat, drought and age. Finally bearable here but desperately need rain - more than the drizzle we got today.
Posted by: Barbara H. | Friday, October 06, 2023 at 10:25 PM
I'd be exhausted after all the street work and related plant moving and replanting, but there you are! I have a soft spot for Crimson Pygmy and the bush at my parent's house is probably a good thirty years old, but I don't think I'll need another cutting of it for here.
Glad the rain has inspired you!
Posted by: Frank | Saturday, October 07, 2023 at 07:48 PM