Unfortunately too often times we are made to feel that way. Oh, not because it isn’t socially acceptable. Quite the contrary. It is all the rage. And, of course, everybody is an absolute expert. Well forget all the hype and the so-called experts. If you really want to grow something, just do it! Grab your pots or plot of soil and dig-in! You don’t need to read every word ever written. Nor do you need to listen to all of the so-called experts. After all, gardening should be a journey, an adventure, if you will. And you are the explorer, out to discover something new everyday. It can be something as simple as how best to pot petunias or as complex as creating your own garden design. It doesn’t really matter as long as you have fun. So, forget all the rules and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The idea is to relax and enjoy yourself.

Now, I feel it’s only fair to caution you at this point. Some people have experienced unexpected side-effects, which may include but are not limited to the following: sudden uncontrollable urges to dig (avoid garden parties), the inability to resist the local garden center (send your husband to the store instead), and the need to inhale the smell of compost at least once a day (better keep the lid on this one). Should you experience any of these symptoms, please go to www.garden.org/home. This won’t cure you however you will find yourself in the company of others who understand your need to seed.

Have you discovered the “budding” gardener in you?

E-mail me at rebeccafairchild@empirecollege.com.

Well get growing!