Let me quickly dispel a myth: yes, I really am a landscaper. To prove it, I took to my own yard to show off a garden bed I'm particularly proud of and talk through what's in it.
When Lisa and I moved into our home 20+ years ago the yard was almost entirely full sun and we had four kids in grade school. Today, the trees I planted that first year are now mature and we're empty nesters.
Every landscaper knows that a garden is never truly done, and as things have changed in our yard and the way that we use it, it's also meant changes in the landscaping. And because I'm a real-life landscaper and have a passion for plants, I'm also always tinkering. Here's a video from one area of the property where I've been making some changes:
I take inspiration from my travel and then bring it back home to use in my own yard and on our clients' properties. Here's what is in this bed that I'm excited about:
Bottlebrush Buckeyes
I love these for privacy from the neighbors, and the blooms attract butterflies, too. These are mature now and I originally put them in to replace honeysuckle that was along the property line.
Summerific Edge of Night Hibiscus
This is a Proven Winners plant that I saw while touring their gardens in Michigan last summer. I added this bed just so I could have space for these. They're stunning already, and will be even better as they grow.
Katsura Tree
I was inspired after seeing one of these in a botanical garden in Des Moines, IA. When I added this bed, I knew I wanted this tree, too.
Caring for my own garden is my creative outlet, and when we're in late summer and the days are long and hot it helps to remind myself that I get to earn a living doing something I genuinely love.
This week my message to you is simple: burnout is real, and at this time of the year it's easy for it to set in. Try to take some time this week to spend on something that gives you energy. Maybe that's working in your own yard, sketching out a landscape design for a client, taking a walk, or reading a book. You'll find me out in the yard dreaming about what plants could fill in any open spaces I see.
Happy Sunday, I'll talk to you next week!
Marty Grunder
Founder & CEO
The Grow Group & Grunder Landscaping Co.