my mother’s garden: old roots, new blooms in north america

When I walk through my backyard, I’m always reminded of my mother’s garden back in the UK. She poured her heart into every rose bush and tomato vine, just like many of us do here. But lately, I’ve noticed how gardening has changed across generations. My mother swears by her compost tea and hand-weeding, while my own kids are more interested in hydroponics and vertical planters. Sometimes, I wonder if we’re losing the simple joys she cherished—kneeling in the dirt, feeling the earth, sharing stories over a cup of tea. Here in North America, our seasons are harsher, our soil different, and our neighborhoods often have strict rules about what we can plant. I’ve had neighbors complain about my wildflower patch, calling it ‘messy’ compared to their manicured lawns. It makes me miss the old days, when gardens were a patchwork of family history, not just a competition for curb appeal. But maybe that’s the real debate: do we stick to tradition, or embrace the new? Is a garden for beauty, for food, or for healing? I’d love to hear how others balance these choices, especially as summer storms and droughts make every planting season a gamble. Sometimes, I think my mother’s way—slow, patient, and full of love—might be what we need most now. What do you think? #gardeningmemories #familytraditions #modernvsclassic #Gardening