when golden marigolds outshine modern gardens

Every time I see marigolds glowing in my neighbor’s yard, I’m swept back to my grandmother’s porch, where their bright faces lined the steps. Back then, gardening was about tradition—saving seeds, sharing cuttings, and passing down stories with every bloom. Today, I see younger folks filling their beds with exotic succulents and plastic mulch, chasing Instagram trends instead of the rhythms of our seasons. It makes me wonder: are we losing something precious in the rush for novelty? In our Midwest climate, marigolds have always thrived, fending off pests and lighting up gray days. Yet, some in my community argue that native wildflowers are better for pollinators, while others miss the old-fashioned charm of marigolds and zinnias. I’ve watched heated debates at our local garden club—should we stick to what’s always worked, or embrace new, eco-friendly trends? Some say marigolds are too common, too old-fashioned. But to me, their golden glow is a thread connecting generations, a living memory in every petal. What do you think: is it time to let go of tradition, or do these flowers still have a place in our changing world? #gardeningmemories #traditionvsinnovation #midwestgardens #Gardening