I started my first small garden by using a pick ax to pry and remove the shale from the chosen area. When the hole was deep and wide enough, I hauled in soil and planted my first seeds. Believe it or not this small endeavor bloomed spectacularly the first summer--I was hooked.
I soon found that it was much easier to build raised gardens then to dig down into the rock, so most of my back yard is terraced. Since it's a fairly small yard, I have filled almost every available space with perennials. My husband is very proud of the fact that it takes him only fifteen minutes to mow our entire lawn!
My favorite perennials are bee balm, daylilies, yarrow, and 'autumn joy' sedum--all favorites of hummingbirds and butterflies. They are also very hardy and long blooming in my northern gardens. Some other favorites are lady's mantle and rudbeckia 'Goldsturm.' These have become the "backbone" for most of my gardens.
I added a small pond and waterfall a few years ago that has given the back yard an entirely new dimension. Nothing is more restful then sitting in the gazebo and listening to the water cascade down the rocks. It has also attracted many birds which has added a lot of color and life to the gardens. I'm still amazed when I see an oriole taking a shower under the waterfall!
Enjoy the tour and.....
Good Gardening!
Terry L. Yockey
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