why i regret being a lazy gardener this spring

Every spring, I remember my grandmother’s garden—neat rows, no weeds, and every plant thriving. She’d wake up before sunrise, hands in the soil, humming old songs. I thought I could take shortcuts this year, skipping the early weeding and mulching. Now, my backyard is a wild mess, dandelions everywhere, and my tomatoes are struggling. It makes me wonder: are we losing something precious by chasing convenience? My neighbors, younger folks with their fancy raised beds and drip irrigation, scoff at my old-fashioned ways. But I miss the slow mornings, the feel of earth under my nails, and the pride in a well-tended plot. Here in the Midwest, our unpredictable weather means you can’t be lazy. One missed week and the weeds take over. Yet, some in our community argue that wild gardens are better for pollinators and the environment. Others, like the HOA, threaten fines if lawns aren’t tidy. Do we follow tradition, or embrace new methods? Should we prioritize beauty, nature, or just what fits our busy lives? I’d love to hear how you balance these choices. Has anyone else paid the price for a lazy spring? #gardeningmemories #springregrets #oldvsnew #Gardening