There are far too many self esteem problems in the world as it is. No sense taking on plant guilt, too.

History is everything in gardening: With a site, weather, a particular plant. It solves mysteries. And it's why, when others say, "You can't do that!" you can know with deepest certainty that you can.

Take care with manufactured chemicals, certainly. Your safety and long term health are more important than anything. Yet don't forget that if you grow even a dozen different plants, you are surrounded by chemistry. Inside their cells even the most ordinary plants creates potent fungicides, insecticides, irritants, balms, hallucinogens, sedatives, nerve toxins, cell repair stimulants, lures, repellents... you name it. Treat all plants with respect!

If you cut a shrub back because it's just too big, and it dies, you haven't lost anything but a plant that couldn't live by your rules.

If someone says "You're not doing that right," hand him the shovel, sit and watch. That's the right way to garden.

Gardeners do first, read later. Why not? Plants are very gracious in accepting an apology.

Low care is what we do while on our knees. Smart care is what makes the growing easier.