Compost Cowgirls

There have been a lot of changes since last year’s growing season for me.

This winter, my husband and I bought a new house.  We weren’t really looking, but we weren’t really NOT looking either… you know, checking out the MLS every once in a while, dreaming of more space and a bigger garden.

You know what they say: careful what you wish for!  We found our dream house, a beautiful old house in Prospect Park.  It had been empty for a few years and needed some TLC, but the price was right.

But while we were dealing with plumbers, electricians, heating contractors, and mold abatement companies, I was itching to get out to the garden!  The biggest selling point for me was the gorgeous yard, with a screened-in porch, giant arbor, and huge pond.  I could not wait to see what would come up, and learn a little bit about water gardening and koi!

As we met more of our neighbors, we learned that the former owners were avid gardeners, hosting the neighborhood garden club, and even appearing in a gardening magazine.  Suddenly, it seemed like a lot to live up to.  Plus, the front yard is shaded by some magnificent big trees and I know nothing about shade plants.  And what was I thinking, adding a big pond to the list of things to learn about and take care of??!?!

Panic was setting in.

So we’re trying to take things one step at a time.  We had the guys from Definitive Aquarium come out to get our pond cleaned up and repaired.

Working pond, plus gorgeous redbud!

What a treat!  The running water is so peaceful and already two toads have made their home among it’s banks (we love to hear them chirping at night).  I’m not yet brave enough to add koi, we still need a lesson on pond maintenance.  But it won’t be long!

There is a lot of work to do but it will surely be rewarding.  I’m excited to make this garden a showpiece again but I’m intimidated about all that needs to be done.  And I’ll be looking to you, readers to help me identify some mystery plants.  I know there are some gems hidden among the weeds!