Keeping the rabbits at bay.

Recently the company newsletter asked employees to share their favorite gardening tips. Mine were so warmly received I decided to share them with my blog friends too. Gardening tips are my forte and I’ve got a million, but I’ll share a few.

1. Always be aware of the cord when using an electric hedge trimmer.
2. If you are weeding on a hill make sure your wheelbarrow is horizontal to the slope.
3. Assume you have dirt on your nose if a neighbor comes over to say hi.
4. Never be shy about making up Latin names when asked to identify plants when you aren’t sure if it is a weed or something you actually planted.
5. Sunscreen, good gloves, and a hat are not optional.
6. Encourage the dogs to chase rabbits and chipmunks.
7. A great blade sharpener is worth the extra expense.
8. Be generous with giving away cuttings, splittings and babies. It’s amazing how many gifts you get in return.
9. Embrace xeriscaping or at least mention that is why you don’t water regularly.
10. Avoid drinking wine while shopping plant catalogues during the coldest days of winter.
11. Give away beetle bags to strangers in distant neighborhoods.
12. It is okay to plant your vegetables and herbs in with the flowers.
13. If you like it then it is a flower. If you don’t then it is a weed.
14. Take photos of your gardens so you remember what you planted where.

And most of all, take a moment or two to step back and enjoy your flower beds and veggie gardens.