The Savvy Sage

Words have many definitions, but when I was studying anthropology of education, I learned that from an anthropologist's point of view, agriculture is different from horticulture. The difference is that agriculture is based on growing food or other products to sell.

One of the interesting things about living in a town that is surrounded by farmland and open countryside is the interface between wildlife and human civilization.

In May 2024, my husband Michael and I ventured to the south of Spain, focusing our travels on Andalusia. Our arrival in Crdoba coincided with the city's vibrant Spring festivals, a highlight of which is the renowned Patios of Crdoba competition, a cherished cultural tradition.

I've never been a fan of garden art. I get a kick out of it in other people's gardenstwee fairy abodes, a face attached to an oak tree like a huge Mr. Potato Headbut in my own garden, plants are serious business and there is no time for whirly birds or bunnies sporting blazers.

As the summer heat creeps up on us once again, we think about how to support our gardens to keep them growing and healthy with careful watering through our long hot days. Our plants and trees are not the only components of our gardens that need the support of water.