Sydney Eddison

A patchwork garden, unexpected pleasures from a country garden by Eddison_ Sydney
Like how she starts out with a quilt and how the pieces are from a lot of different people and it tells a story and her garden starts out just like that.
Bearded iris is one flower we have here that grows and I'm not sure where it came from as I don't recall ever planting the bulb. So velvety and rich in color.
Loved hearing of the wild flowers, many of which my mom always grew and gave me either cuttings or seeds to start my own flowers.
Lots of ideas and tips as they move to a new location and gather the plants, some given some bought.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).… (mere)

I spent a week reading this book - I had plenty of time to enjoy it, as my back was out. This was the perfect book for me to read during this time. I have struggled for a number of years with how to maintain my rather large garden as my capacity to work long hours has diminished. Sydney seems to be going through the same experience as me, and I suspect most gardeners eventually end up where we are: how to take care of this beautiful garden as we become a little more limited physically. She has great suggestions, some of which I have already started. For example, begin replacing perennials (they are more work than advertised!) with shrubs. Take advantage of shade (weeds don't like it either). Live in harmony with your surroundings - plant natives that are suited to low maintenance. Learn to make lists and prioritize your work. Find good help if necessary. Learn new types of gardening that are easier on the back, such as container gardening or miniature landscapes. Finally, and I think most importantly, learn to accept imperfection. It's really part of the natural cycle. Great book - I'm so happy I had a week to sit and read this!… (mere)