Planting a memory
September 11, 2003
MARY LOGAN
Victoria County Master Gardener
Just two short years ago, our nation experienced a fierce and tragic attack. After the horrific acts of Sept. 11, 2001, the vast majority of us re-examined our priorities and once again valued greatly the simpler joys of life.
On this second anniversary of the world-altering event, we again pause to honor those individuals lost on that terrible day and others who exemplified tremendous courage in acts of bravery and compassion. We also may find solace in remembering our own family members and friends who are no longer with us but have left us with indelible memories of their time spent on Earth.
On this day of remembering, may I suggest a living tribute to those who have gone before us? Or if not a living tribute, how about considering a gift to last for many years, something with some permanency, to be used and enjoyed by others?
Many nature lovers have found comfort in planting a living memorial for their loved ones. When my grandmother passed away, I found myself planting a bed of pansies, as those perky little flowers were Granny's favorite. Whenever I see a pansy, my thoughts shift to her.
When my older brother died, the college in
Do you remember the famous poem that we all learned in
school, "Trees," written by Alfred Joyce Kilmer? The
A tree is surely the most often-chosen planting for a memorial because of its longevity and size. In selecting the variety, you would want to look for those trees known for their strength, adaptability to the planting area/zone and longevity.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Claudette, it is obvious that none is indestructible, but you can choose those with the best chance of survival. When making your selection, consider the characteristics of the tree that will meet your needs.
Do you want trees that provide shade, ornamental flowering, fruits or nuts? Is the size of the mature tree right for the spot where it will be planted? Tall trees are good for high structures, while they might dwarf a smaller home and block windows and sidewalks.
When asked about the most desirable trees for our area,
Victoria County Agricultural Extension Agent Joe Janak said, "Selecting
the perfect tree is nearly impossible, as all trees have some fault, but many
still have great qualities. Smaller trees for the
Bare-rooted trees do best with winter planting. Balled-and-burlapped trees can be put out year-round but need very special attention and watering if planted in the summer.
The size of the planting hole is important and generally should be twice as wide in diameter, and no deeper, than the soil ball. Fill the hole with excavated backfill until it is two-thirds full.
After filling the hole with water to firm the soil and remove air pockets, make sure the tree is straight, then complete filling the hole with backfill. You can make a ring of backfill 2 to 3 inches high at the outer edge to form a water basin. Water the tree thoroughly and let the water soak into the soil.
Complete the planting with mulch, such as pine needles, bark
and wood chips. When you stand back to admire your work, you can reflect on the
times shared with your loved one and feel pleased to know that you're helping
replenish the hurricane-damaged landscape in
If not a tree, what other memorials would be fitting? The
Victoria Memorial Rose Garden, a beautiful spot located in
Another locale of natural beauty to consider is Victoria
Educational Gardens (VEG), an ongoing project of the Victoria County Master
Gardeners, located at the Officer's Club at
Phase I of VEG was completed this past spring. Phase II is
on the horizon, to be followed by Phases III through VI. Among the gardens to
be constructed in these phases will be a
All offer opportunities for planting living memorials or
dedicating a garden structure in memory of your loved one. If this type of
memorial appeals to you, contact
There are numerous areas where living memorials would be valued and appreciated for years to come. Certainly our own yards and gardens are an ideal place to start. Have you also considered your place of worship, a non-profit headquarters, an activity center or a neighborhood park as a fitting spot to place your seeds and your memories?
Let your imagination and your heart take you to the appropriate and fitting locale for your special memorial.
I leave you with favorite quotations appropriate for today's thoughts:
"No matter how
long the winter, spring is sure to follow." - Guinean proverb
"What the
caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls a butterfly." -
Richard Bach
"He
who plants a garden, plants happiness." - Chinese proverb
"A thing of
beauty is a joy forever." - John Keats