Gardens made easy

We all know that Dandelions are considered weeds but did you know that Violets, Golden Rod and the Morning Glory are too? The truth is many of those high priced perennials you buy often grow along country roads or in vacant lots. We all know the saying 'growing like a weed' well why not use them to brighten up your yard? Weeds are a hardy lot, thrive on neglect and can be had for just a bit of effort on your part.

The best way to 'find' your garden is by keeping your eyes open while driving. Make a mental note of anything that peeks your interest. It maybe that vacant lot you pass by everyday on the way to work or maybe the back road shortcut you use. Goldenrod, thistles (yes thistles) and day lilies often grow along farmers fence lines and just a few plants will spread to fill in a whole area.   Always ask for permission before going onto any property. Realtors can provide contact information for vacant lots in most cases.  In rural areas nearby houses are probably the property owners or will know who is.

Once you have an idea of what is available in your area, plan how and where you would like to use them in your yard. Maybe that area where you just can't seem to get grass or anything else to grow? How about a raised flower bed? They can be as simple as getting some 6 X 2 boards at your local Home Improvement store (many of them will cut them to length for you)and nailing them together. Place them where you want, fill with dirt and add your weeds. (This is a good way to keep them from spreading to areas you don't want them in.) If you live in or close to a rural area, farmland is a good place to find large rocks. They plow them up when they are preparing their fields. Ask if you could collect them. They make good borders for your flower beds.

I've found that everything goes much smoother if you have the area ready for planting before you begin collecting. Remember your plants aren't in containers and will need to be replanted right away.

You've decided which types of plants you want, know where to find them, have permission to dig them up and are already to replant them in your garden.

What you'll need ~ Garbage bags, gloves and a shovel. I also recommend pants and long sleeves. Jugs of water are also a good idea if the ground is really dry.

Most weeds are easily dug up. Be careful to get as much root as you can as this will help them take root when replanted. Place a few plants in each bag (this will keep the dirt on the roots and out of your vehicle). Don't be greedy and be choosy. Look for plants that appear healthy and thriving. Avoid those with lots of bugs or leaves that are deformed or have holes in them. There is no need to take every last plant. These are weeds after all and will spread on their own. Don't make a mess of the area. Digging up plants and then leaving them lay won't win you any favors.

If your planting against a house or fence, place the taller varieties in the back.  If your area can be seen from all sides put the tallest things in the middle.  Don't worry about 'spacing' either, The plants will 'space' themselves over time.  As with anything you replant, it's always a good idea to water them once everything is planted. Don't drown them but do give them a fairly good soaking. Keep an eye on them for the first few days as they may need to be watered again. Once they are 'settled in" your done. Remember these plants have been growing just fine without any help. They haven't been watered on a regular schedule, which means that you don't have to either. And no more 'weeding'. Let nature take it's course. Best of all the reseed themselves for years of hassle free beauty. The only problem you might have is over crowding, in which case you can either replant some in another area, help a friend start their own 'Weed Garden' or just toss out.

If you just can't seem to give up regular Flowers, try using 'Wild Flower' seed mix. Many of the varieties come back year after year and seed packets are usually inexpensive.