There is always change in the garden, and I’ve come to learn that not only is that normal—it’s actually part of the joy of gardening. When I first started, I had this idea that once I got everything planted just right, my garden would stay in that perfect state. But over time, I realized that gardens are like us—they grow, shift, and adapt. And just like we don’t wear the same clothes or eat the same meals every day, we don’t need our garden to stay the same year after year either.
This post is a bit of a reflection—on what’s working, what’s not, and how I’ve learned to let go of the idea that everything needs to stay exactly as it is. If you’ve been second-guessing a plant or two, or wondering if it’s “wrong” to move things around, I hope this encourages you to embrace change in your own garden.
The False Indigo Surprise
Let’s start with my false indigo. I absolutely love this plant. It’s tough, drought-tolerant, has beautiful blooms, and adds some height and structure. But this year, I noticed it was popping up in places I didn’t expect. It’s starting to spread beyond its original footprint, and now I’m rethinking where it should live.
That doesn’t mean it’s a bad plant or that it needs to go. It just means I have a decision to make. Do I rein it in a bit and transplant a few shoots? Or do I allow it to continue where it’s going and see how it evolves? These are the questions we get to ask ourselves when we take a step back and observe what’s really happening in our space.
This is what I mean when I say my garden is always changing. Sometimes the changes happen because of a plant’s natural behavior, and sometimes it’s because my own preferences are shifting.
When the Joy Isn’t There Anymore
Another example this season is my petunias. I had high hopes for them. I planted them in a few pots and tucked some in the front of a flower bed. The ones in the ground are doing okay, so I’ll leave them for now. But the ones in pots? They’re just not working. The blooms are sparse, the leaves are drying out, and I find myself walking right past them without much thought.
And here’s the thing: they’re not bringing me the joy I was hoping for. I used to hang on to plants just because I bought them or put effort into planting them. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to let go.
If something isn’t thriving or doesn’t make you happy anymore, it’s okay to pull it out. Maybe try something new. Maybe give that space a break. The world won’t end if you don’t finish the season with the same flowers you started with.
Garden Shifts Big and Small
Sometimes the changes are bigger. Like a hosta that doubles in size and suddenly swallows up the plants next to it. Other times, it’s more subtle—like a color combination that just doesn’t feel right or a plant that used to excite you but now feels kind of “meh.”
I’ve also had this happen with daylilies. I liked them at one point. But over time, I noticed I wasn’t looking forward to their blooms anymore. They just didn’t do it for me. So, I gave them away. And guess what? Someone else was thrilled to have them. That’s the beauty of gardening—just because something’s not working for you doesn’t mean it’s not perfect for someone else.
Change Is Part of the Process
One thing I’ve really come to appreciate is that change is just part of the process. Whether it’s a plant that dies, something that needs dividing, or a new plant that ends up being a total flop, it’s all part of the journey.
Here’s a short list of ways your garden might change (and that’s perfectly okay):
- A plant outgrows its space
- You no longer like a color combination
- A favorite plant becomes invasive
- A new addition doesn’t thrive
- Your sunlight or shade conditions shift
- You want less maintenance in a certain spot
- Your design style evolves
Instead of resisting these changes, I try to observe and ask myself: What can I learn from this? What do I want to try instead?
Letting Go Is Not a Failure
Pulling a plant out or giving one away is not a failure. It’s actually a sign that you’re paying attention and tuning in to what you want your garden to be.
Sometimes I jot notes in my garden notebook:
- “Don’t replant petunias in pots.”
- “Move false indigo in fall.”
- “Try more zinnias next year.”
These little notes become lessons. And maybe in a few years I’ll try petunias again. Maybe they’ll work in a different container or with a different care routine. Or maybe I’ll find something new that I love even more.
Your garden doesn’t need to look like someone else’s or match a plan you made years ago. Let it be a reflection of who you are right now.
The Emotional Side of Garden Changes
It’s easy to get attached to plants. We remember when we planted them. We remember what was going on in life at the time. That rose bush might have been a gift. That clump of daffodils might have come from a neighbor.
So when it comes time to dig something up or give it away, it’s okay to feel a little sad. But it’s also okay to move on. You’re not erasing the memory—you’re making space for something new.
Gardening teaches us about the cycle of life more than anything else. There’s always more to plant, more to learn, and more to enjoy. But holding onto something that isn’t working doesn’t serve you—or your garden.
Adapting as a Gardener
We’re not the same people year after year. Maybe you have less time, or more. Maybe you’re gardening through a heatwave and want drought-tolerant plants next season. Maybe you’ve fallen in love with native plants, or want more color, or want fewer pests to manage.
Whatever it is—adapt. Pivot. Change your mind. It’s your garden, and it should make you feel good to be in it.
Gardening isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress, discovery, and joy. So if that hosta needs dividing, or that false indigo needs rethinking, or you just want to start fresh in a certain spot—go for it.
What to Do When a Plant Isn’t Working
Here’s what I usually do when I’m unsure about a plant:
- Pause and observe. Is the issue temporary (like heat or drought) or ongoing?
- Check your care. Sometimes poor performance is just a watering or fertilizing issue.
- Give it time. Some plants just take longer to shine.
- Ask yourself how it makes you feel. Does it still bring you joy?
- Make a note. If you decide to remove it, write down why so you remember later.
- Find it a new home. Give it to a friend or compost it without guilt.
You are the designer, the caretaker, and the soul of your garden. Own that role with confidence.
Because My Garden Is Always Changing
I’ve moved countless plants. I’ve tried things that didn’t work. I’ve learned from each season and each “mistake.” But the truth is, it’s not really a mistake—it’s a step forward.
Whether it’s pulling out a struggling petunia or dividing a too-big hosta, it’s all part of making the garden a place that fits your life now. My garden is always changing, and that’s what keeps it interesting, creative, and alive.
So if you’re looking at your space and thinking, “This isn’t working,” that’s not a bad thing. That’s a growth thing.
Want to Keep Your Plants Happy?
If you’re wondering whether your plants are struggling due to care or simply not a good fit, you might enjoy this next post:
👉 How Often Should I Water My Plants
It walks through the basics of watering, signs of too much or too little, and gives practical tips to help your garden thrive—whether it’s changing or staying put.
