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I’m Charlie Nardozzi and this is
the Vermont Garden Journal. Mother’s Day was started during the Civil War by
Julia Ward Howe. She was so distraught over the carnage, she called for a day
to honor peace and motherhood in protest of the war. But what started as a day
to honor moms, has turned into an unruly commercial holiday. So what should you
do to celebrate your mother on this day? While chocolates, flowers, cards and
brunch are the norm, how about something for her garden?
Most moms are overworked so any
garden gift that represents more work such as a bonzai tree, garden cart, or
new trellis may not be good ideas. Oh and guys, one word of advice, when mom
says she wants some mulch or compost for mother’s day, that means she wants you
to spread it.
Most mothers never think they get
enough time with their kids. "What you’re leaving already". Plan a
day to work in your mom’s garden with her. You could do some of the grunt work
she’s avoided or maybe plant a new flower or vegetable bed together.
Picking out a tree or shrub is a
good idea, if you know your mom’s tastes. A contorted hazelnut or barberry may
NOT be what she wants planted right off the back deck. It’s better to go
shopping with her and offer to pay for the plant she wants. Think low
maintenance plants for mom such as Knockout roses, Endless Summer blue
hydrangeas, and Stella D’oro daylilies.
Finally how about a gift that will
help her feel good after a session in the garden. A gift certificate for a
facial or massage is a great pampering gift on this day.
Now for this week’s tip, the bark
mulch is flying around landscapes this time of year. When spreading mulch
around tree, remove the old mulch first. If you don’t, you’ll create a mulch
volcano pile under your tree that will eventually kill it.
Next week on
the Vermont Garden Journal, I’ll be talking about honeyberries. For now, I’ll
be seeing you in the garden!
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