LIVE AND LET DIE

April 23, 2016

"Come look--I have something to show you!"

My spry grandmother-in-law, Gretta, was full of surprises. Visiting her home in Florida was always a treat. On one particular venture to Grandma's, recognizing my love of gardening, she instructed me to follow her.

"I have something to show you."

One always followed Grandma's instructions, so out the back door we trekked through the garden into her neighbor's yard. Grandma pointed out the most brilliant cluster of red Amaryllis Lilies in bloom, to which I declared them to be, "Gorgeous!" In a nanosecond, she yanked one of the lilies out of the flower bed and handed it to me. In response to the surprised look on my face staring down at the clump of dirt and dangling roots, Grandma assured me, "not to worry."

"They've been away for weeks and won't mind sharing."

Although I felt a twinge of guilt, it was a delight to receive the 'gift.' The Amaryllis found a place of honor in my garden. For the few years that it survived our brisk winters, I was humored every time I pictured our clandestine caper. Now, just the sight of an Amaryllis conjures up a guilty smile.

So it goes with many of my gardening friends and family. I love every single pass-along-plant that graces my garden. Almost. In addition to the Amaryllis, I've received several varieties of Iris, Clematis, Flowering Quince, and Peony--the list goes on. Unfortunately, also on the list are regrettable gifts.

It starts so innocently. Before you know it, unruly plants leap out of bonds and start climbing all over every other plants in the garden. Not all well-intentioned gifts must find a place in your garden. I've spent hours uprooting Vinca Major, a tiny pass-along that spread like wildfire. Last weekend I declared war on Lonicera, which was climbing on every tree and shrub within reach.

A little research before transplanting will keep the unruly from ruling your garden--if you heed the warnings. Occasionally, I think I can keep these pretty renegades in check only to be followed by regret for opening the door to trouble.

Not wanting to appear ungrateful when a friend notices the absence of a gift, a simply stated , "It didn't survive," will do. To which they will ponder, "How on earth does an experienced gardener kill Vinca Major?"

[Carolyn Fjeran,LowTide explorer/reflective writer; horticulturist & gardener; former writer for Cooperative Extension Service, Master Gardeners and The Newnan Times Herald]