Retirement offers something truly special: Time! This week I visit Gary and Kathleen's garden in Bayport. They've had a lifelong passion for nature and now that they are retired, they have all the time in the world to invest in their beautiful backyard and some inspiration for yours

A few garden tips:

Break your garden into unique spaces using shrubs, pathways, and garden features like gazebos, trellises, and ponds. These "garden rooms" make the yard multipurpose. More importantly, it's easier to complete garden projects when you're working on them one at a time. Working on an entire garden all at once can discourage even the most patient gardeners!

Kathleen and Garden have spaces dedicated to native woodlands, feeding birds, and a gazebo for entertaining. They also have a pond and beautiful vegetable garden that's as tasty as it is beautiful!

Gary and Kathleen made their yard feel magical with playful and functional touches like a Fairy Garden. Kathleen was inspired by photos online last year and Gary got to work, creating a village with little sculptures to go with it.

The couple also have used their love for whimsy to add some practical touches like what they call a "bug hotel". It's a collection of twigs and clippings from around the yard to provide a safe home for pollinators

When I asked Gary what his advice was for people looking to start a garden, he advised, “Amend your soil—it’s the foundation of everything,” Gary has created an area in the back of the garden to allow leaves and old soil to decompose into compost which he uses to enrich the soil around the yard. He also recommends reading plant tags carefully to choose the right location and conditions for each plant. Over time plants can outgrow their space and sun exposure will change.

Gardening is physical, and that’s part of its appeal, especially in retirement. Fortunately, retirees have the time to do a little at a time. "We work for half an hour, then take a break in the shade with iced tea," Kathleen explains. When they were working Gary and Kathleen had to cram all their garden chores into a weekend. Now they can tackle things more slowly.

Even experienced gardeners lose plants now and then. “It’s a humbling hobby,” says Gary. But with disappointment comes surprises too. Kathleen says they've had Dahlias return, which are considered a tender plant that is too cold sensitive to survive the winter in our climate.

Anyone can garden!

Gary and Kathleen’s yard is a reminder that retirement doesn't have to be the end of personal growth, and with gardening you can grow beautiful plants too! Gardening is a great hobby. You'll be investing in your property, creating a peaceful retreat, getting exercise, and have an opportunity to grow healthy food too.