Death in My Garden

A dead ladybug at rest in a young hardy geranium leaf.  

Death is a resident in every garden.  And as a life long gardener, I've learned to accept the stink and slime of it.  But, that doesn't make it any easier when I lose a prized plant.  

I usually mutter a few choice curses, grab a shovel and move the dearly departed plant to my compost heap.  Then, I go inside and put a big X through the tag in my garden book and make a few notes.  But, this time I took a few shots to share with you, so we can curse together before I go get my shovel.

My Schefflera taiwaniana 'Yuan Shan' has given up and died.  Sigh.

Schefflera taiwaniana 'Yuan Shan' in October 2013

It was meant to be a focal point in my front bed by the house.  The plant tipped to the side and I didn't notice.  So, it developed a canker from the stem touching the compost.  I propped it back up, but it was too late for the plant to recover.  It pains me to see all those lovely wavy pinnate leaves on the ground.  I'll miss it.

Schefflera taiwaniana 'Yuan Shan' in October 2013

Fortunately, Tsugawa's Nursery carries a nice line of Hardy Scheffleras, so I won't be without one for long.  I'm going to pick up a couple more this spring and make sure to stake them and keep the compost level low around the stems. I don't want to lose another one.  

Plant death in my garden teaches me valuable lessons and makes room for new plants.  It's also a powerful reminder to keep a closer eye on my plants.  My garden is waking up early this year and its already time to start my morning strolls through the garden to check for problems like slugs.  Ugh…I hate slugs.    

So, have you lost any plants lately?