Keeping your cool in Colorado

by Bridget Tisthammer

Honeysuckle_HailI believe in the resilience of nature. When hail shreds my hostas, I look forward to seeing those first new leaves unfurling through the confetti of their mates. When wind blows down the flower stalks on my meadow rue, I’m amazed that the plant blooms anyway, bent to the ground, but beautiful nevertheless.

To garden in Colorado is a testament to the vital urge to grow and thrive, no matter what is thrown your way. We’ve all had setbacks in life, and so, too, have our plants. Thanks to a recent hail storm, many of our customers have called to ask how to help their plants recover. Other than cutting off the damaged growth and applying a light fertilizer, there’s nothing to do but watch the plant make its way back. And, fortunately, most of them do. But is it fun to overcome these setbacks? Hail, no!

Good intentions without follow-through are also a part of life. I really meant to keep that beautiful new honeysuckle hand-watered until I had time to extend my drip system. But, life got busy and the honeysuckle suffered under my neglect. I hope it will recover, but if not, maybe this time I’ll learn the lesson of preparing before I plant. And, another Hall’s Honeysuckle is probably waiting on the bench for me to take home and try again.

Last week on my way to work, I watched a mother duck cross a busy street during morning rush hour with five ducklings close on her tail. Even the impatient driver who couldn’t see why everyone had slowed down managed to slam on his brakes in time to allow the fragile family to pass. Life continues to amaze me. Despite setbacks, despite danger, despite a little careless neglect, plants still grow, people still care, and the beauty of life goes on.

Originally published on July 2nd, 2014. Updated on March 3rd, 2023.