Gardens of Yellow

 One of my favorite things about fall is the wildflowers that dot the hillside and marshes.  It breaks my heart to cut grass during this time of year simply because so many pretty flowers sprout up and bloom where I need to mow.  I have become fully tempted to strew seeds over the entire yard and call it a wildflower garden!  Life would be easier as I would not have to push the lawnmower for several months!  

  I have a bad habit of letting the gardens go to ruin during the late summer so by fall, things are a bit overgrown.  Last year, three goldenrod plants grew in the chive garden so this year, there are goldenrod plants everywhere!  While I think they are beautiful and wish for more, others do not see the allure. When explaining my love, I list three things.  First, bees love them!  The blooms are literally covered with honeybees and bumblebees!  Second, they add a bit of "fall" color to the drab gardens.  Yes, this is color that towers over my head but it is color, just the same.  Third, if I call them wildflowers, I do not have to explain why I have not weeded the gardens! (See, there is some method to my madness!)

  Goldenrod is one of those plants that has gotten a bad rap simply because another plant looks similar.  Ragweed is the actual culprit that causes so many allergies.  It is highly rare that goldenrod causes the watery eyes and sneezing attacks.  Ragweed is the one to blame for that, my friends.  

  This morning, the goldenrod swayed gently in the north breeze.  It was simply lovely and the garden was abuzz with bees and other pollen-seeking insects.  Then came the rains and my gardens received some much needed water but the goldenrod was sagging,  The blooms were heavy with water causing the stalks to bend close to the ground.  It appears that I probably should clear the gardens now.  I am glad I was able to enjoy the colors when I had the chance.