how sage bridges generations in our gardens

When I was a child, my grandmother’s garden always smelled of sage—earthy, comforting, and wild. She believed sage could heal a cough or flavor a roast, and every summer, her kitchen overflowed with bundles drying in the sun. Now, decades later, I find myself with a bumper crop of sage, but the world around me has changed. My neighbors talk about xeriscaping and native plants, and some even question if growing so much sage is wasteful in our dry climate. I wonder: is my love for sage just nostalgia, or does it still belong in our modern gardens? Some younger folks see it as old-fashioned, preferring sleek succulents or tech-driven hydroponics. Yet, every time I crush a leaf between my fingers, I remember family dinners and the way sage tea soothed my winter colds. Can we honor these traditions while respecting new ideas about water conservation and community guidelines? In our North American neighborhoods, especially with droughts becoming more common, some HOAs frown on sprawling herb beds, favoring tidy lawns or rock gardens. But I see sage as a bridge—between generations, between old remedies and new aesthetics. Maybe it’s time to talk about what we value more: the memories and healing power of traditional plants, or the push for ultra-modern, water-saving landscapes. Which side are you on? #sagegarden #familytraditions #gardeningdebate #Gardening