Every
December, my father asks, “Would you mind taking a plant or two for us while
we’re in Florida?”
“No, of
course not. I love plants.”
My parents
have spent the “winter” in Florida for the past several years, first spending
January and February there, then increasing their stays through April and then
May. One year they left New York in September!
With each
departure, I gain at least one plant. The interesting bargain is – they never
take them back. When my parents return to New York for the warmer months, they
don’t ask for the plants I cared for and watered throughout our cold season.
The subject hardly comes up – unless I point out how one plant (a thriving
Jade) is flourishing on my kitchen windowsill.
When I
visit them at their home in New York during the summer, I notice new blossoms
in new pots at the kitchen window and some on the deck. Where did these come
from, I think. Then, are they my next adoptees?
Yes, in
fact most are. My dad manages to pawn off some on neighbors, but typically I am
the recipient of a hearty, blooming beauty. He brings me the plants with
watering and sunlight instructions; but to tell you the truth, they all get the
same treatment. Water and miracle grow, and as much sun as Mother Nature feels
like providing.
My father
and I don’t relate on too many topics. Gardening and caring for plants are a couple of the
few items in which we share a common interest. I find it curious that he never asks
for the plants back.
Are these
gifts? Is he happy that I am caring for something that he cared for? Or does he look forward to finding a new variety to which he can apply his evergreen thumb.
Whatever
the reason, I am glad to do it. I’ve been keeping his plants alive (and I
think happy) for quite some time now.
Comments