A few days ago, while driving a warning message appeared on the dash board. It read ‘Change Oil Soon.’ The sticker on the windshield revealed that it was one month past the time when I should have taken my truck in for an oil change. I asked myself “How did I let this happen?” Within hours the oil change was complete and I was given a second chance to maintain my truck properly.
Spring is like a second chance for gardeners. It is a time to either improve upon what was done differently or perhaps change course entirely. Changes of any size and scope can have a lasting impact. Our landscaping is a result of what was done or not done previously. Each year builds upon the previous year. This spring take a few moments to consider what you want to do with your second chance.
As with vehicles, the timely maintenance of plants is crucial. Spring blooming shrubs may be prune in the summer. Summer blooming shrubs may be pruned in the early spring. Removing weeds should be done on a regular basis. Fewer blooms, dying out in the middle, falling over are signs that perennial flowers may need to be divided. Tree branches, when allowed to grow unchecked, can grow too close to a home or a sidewalk.
The planting of annual flowers seems like a rite of passage in the spring. These gorgeous flowers are available in all shapes and sizes. Choosing which ones to plant in your containers or in the ground can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, for many homeowners, newer varieties are drought tolerant and thrive in a variety of different growing conditions. Adding color to the near the front door, driveway or patio through planters filled with annual flowers brings joy to all who view these colorful containers.
The 2026 Pantone Color of the Year is Cloud Dancer. Cloud dancer, as the name implies, is a white color that is described as having a calming influence. Adding coolness, calmness and chicness to our landscaping through the addition of white flowering plants is something that we may be able to benefit from. Champagne Wishes Roses, Summer Wine Black Ninebark, and Vanilla Cream Baptisia are examples of beautiful shrubs that boast pure white flowers.
Listening and watching birds has proven to have profound mental and physical health benefits. These popular activities can lower blood pressure, offer stress relief and lead to increased socialization. Planting a shrub or shrubs that offer a natural food source for birds may be something that you want to consider in 2026. Shrubs such as Arctic Fire Red Dogwood, Opening Day Viburnum and Dwarf Garden Japanese Juniper offer edible berries that birds love.
Saving money is something that we all can benefit from. As grocery prices continue to rise, consider planting a few herb or vegetable plants. Cherry and traditional tomatoes are easily grown in containers. Lettuce can be planted by seed and harvested regularly. Green peppers, zucchini and peas also do well in containers. Commonly used herbs such as basil, thyme, parsley and cilantro can be easily grown and used to make your dishes taste particularly fresh.
When possible, this year, consider using the safest version of the plant care product that is needed. Gardeners typically use at least one pesticide, herbicide, fungicide or fertilizer each year. These are many different versions of each of these products. Consider using an organic or natural version in place of a synthetic or chemical version.
Rabbits are voracious eaters. They commonly feed on annual and perennial flowers as well as shrubs. There are plants that are considered to be rabbit resistant. These plants typically have attributes such as a strong odor, textured leaves or bitter tasting leaves. Although no plant is rabbit proof, here are the names of some plants that are rabbit resistant. Serendipity Allium, Back in Black Sedum, and Pink Profusion Salvia deter rabbit browsing.
As we move through a full year of fun celebratory holidays such as birthdays, St. Patrick’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, consider giving or requesting live plants as a gift. The plants act as a visible reminder of the love that is conveyed by the giver.
Whether it is a holiday or not consider inviting a family member over to enjoy or perhaps work in your garden. Fostering the love of gardening and the outdoors in a younger member is the most precious gift of all. The time spent together will have lasting memories.
I wish you happy gardening this year and lots of second chances at developing a garden and yard that brings you joy and happiness. Wish me luck as I give myself a second chance at maintaining my truck properly.
