Another improvement

The wood planks of our raised garden were deteriorating last year - they were built in 2013. But when Hurricane Helene arrived in September 2024, it came with high water and those deteriorating boards were sitting in it. That was the end of them! 

So this is another project our landscaper did for us, he built new frames for the raised beds. I am delighted and started planting herbs and flowers the next day. 

I added a few basil plants (I make pesto) and 2 kinds of thyme (my favorite herb) - Lemon and English. There's also oregano, rosemary and flat Italian parsley. I pick the herbs and dry them on a tray in a cupboard, then put them in jars for cooking. We also use them fresh of course. 

For flowers I chose Coreopsis and a Sun Daisy, an Oriental Lily (a favorite, their smell is intoxicating) and Alstromeria, also a beloved flower. There is a 3rd bed that's empty and I'd like to find a variety of lettuce plants for that. I enjoy going out and collecting lettuce for sandwiches and salads. 

This gardening has been a joy.... a wonderful way for me to spend time lately. A mind clearing activity! There are some new plants in the front yard too; a yellow hibiscus and a pink mandevillia. :0)