Give the same plants to several people, you will see several arrangements. Each one distinct and different, yet, using the same plants.

This is the ultimate reward of gardening- a means
to express, to create with the help and inspiration
from the gifts of Nature.

Gardening is not just physically and aesthetically
rewarding. It enriches the spirit. It awakens one’s
creativity that lies dormant from neglect, or lack of
motivation, or a popular excuse, not enough time.

Gardening is fast becoming a popular hobby of the times.
From the tropics , to the frigid climes, gardening centers
are offering more choices to tantalize even the most
conservative taste.

Each year, gardeners look forward with excitement
to their gardening; a hobby they take passionately.
What new plants are being introduced? What variety
of surprises awaits them? The ornamental gardener will be
glorious with the new plants or hybrids for the present
growing season. The vegetable/herb gardener
looks forward with anticipation at harvest time.

With so much variety to choose from, what factors
determine which plants to buy? After considering the
soil, weather, sun/shade location factors, the
choice is all about self- expression.

No two gardens are alike, given the same set of plants.

Colors are as revealing as the plants. A conservative
gardener will opt for traditional plants. At times, you see
the same plants, the same arrangements year after year.
Aha!! Perhaps the gardener does not adapt to
change too quickly. It may be lack of time, or change
of physical health.

Vibrant colors in the garden reflect a vibrant gardener.
A garden bursting with colors is very attractive and
pleasing to look at. It is inviting.

What about passion? They say red is a color of passion,
of energy and courage. Add white to the reds, and the
garden beckons the passer-by to take a look. Someone
said this combination looks like a candy cane.

My garden is overcome by burst of yellows and orange,
not really by choice. Somehow, it gives out a golden glow
as the blooms bask in the sun. It reflects my enthusiasm
for life. Many of my plants are gifts from friends, treasures
for my garden. Yellow flowers remind me of my mother.

Purples and blues in the garden are colors of reflection,
of peace and calm. Add white flowers to this and it
invites a meditative mood.

After colors, the arrangements of the plants reveal
something of the person. I have a friend whose
flowerbeds are symmetrical, weed less, picture-
perfect, right out of a magazine. Indeed, this expresses
her organized way of thinking and living.

A gardener who loves to re-arrange the plants and
loves to add new plants and ornaments shows an
enthusiastic and energetic spirit, ready to welcome
change, eager to experiment.

What about an overgrown garden? Perhaps it reflects
someone with scattered energies, at times, a full
plate, or one who does not have the time or energy
to tend the garden. It may well show one that starts
with a burst of enthusiasm that wanes quickly after
the planting is done.

No matter how you plan your garden, it is a
creative tool that allows you to express yourself.
Gardening is therapeutic, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Happy gardening. Don’t forget to talk to
your plants.