why i still grow hibiscus in my backyard
When I was a child, my grandmother’s garden was filled with hibiscus. Every summer, the bright red blooms would draw hummingbirds and butterflies, and she’d tell me stories about how, in her day, everyone grew hibiscus for beauty and for sharing with neighbors. Now, decades later, I still plant hibiscus, but not just for nostalgia. My grandson’s pet tortoise absolutely loves the flowers—he munches them with pure delight.
Some of my neighbors, especially the younger ones, prefer low-maintenance, modern landscapes—gravel, succulents, and artificial turf. They say hibiscus is too messy, too thirsty for our hot summers here in Texas. But I can’t help but feel that something is lost when we trade tradition for convenience. Isn’t there value in growing what connects us to our roots, even if it means a little extra work?
Of course, the HOA isn’t thrilled about my wild hibiscus hedge. They want everything trimmed and uniform, but I think a garden should reflect the people who tend it, not just the latest trends. Every time I see my grandson laughing as he feeds a flower to his tortoise, I’m reminded that gardens are about more than rules—they’re about family, memories, and the simple joys that endure through generations.
Do you think we should stick to traditional plants, or embrace new styles for our changing climate?
#hibiscusmemories #gardeningdebate #familytraditions #Gardening
