The digging up of all plants to be saved, weeding and mulching took me, Mr. Flower and the crew three days. Luckily we had several good rains the previous two days, so that digging was not difficult and the plants were hydrated. 

It was hot, hard work. We took breaks and drank lots of water. We wore ThorGrip nitrile gloves which are a must for many jobs. These are the best. They grip well and do not tear easily.

I had labeled the plants to be moved and their fabric pots ahead of time. All the stakes and deer fence has been removed. The years of battling the herd are over. Our yard has not looked this normal since 2018.

I am relieved to know my favorite plants are safe. I am happy my gardens look beautiful again. I no longer sigh and shake my head as I tour the yard.

This is the first time in three years that I have been able to do this level of physical work. My hips held up to the hills. I do have several bruises, scratches and insect bites but no joint pain or hip dislocations. I am worn out but feel a level of confidence in my mobility that I have not felt in a long time.

All the daylilies have been cleaned and inspected. The tubers have been detangled and covered with potting soil.

I have lightly watered all transplants just enough to stay hydrated. The rest is up to them. They will be kept damp and in the shade for about a month.

Plants that recover and perk up will be listed for adoption. I hope this can be done in the fall. I will plant a few of my absolute favorites inside the fence.

I am happy this is done. I plan to invest my time and energy in other things after this. This move is my gift to myself, my family and my home at Wildwood. I just cannot expect my family to take over the huge job of maintaining this many plants.

My hope is that the herd will disperse now that the deer delicatessen has been removed. They need to forage on native plants not gorge on exotics.

Natural balance is best.

FLOWER