A SPARKLE of color
Bern Township couple are especially happy about the success they had planting zinnias in their garden this season.
As another summer and another gardening season wind to a close, flowers start to wither, their colors fading.
Of course, we still can look forward to the reds, yellows and oranges of leaves as trees take on the fiery hues of fall foliage before the inexorable march of winter is upon us.
But a 20-acreBernTownship property wasn’t ready to give up its summer sparkle even as Labor Day, the traditional end of summer, approached.
Lowell Peters, 88, and his wife, Roseanne, 90, maintain a very special garden, according to Lowell’s daughter, Heather Horst.
Lowell has gardening in his blood, according to his daughter.
“As a young man, his family moved from Kentucky to Leesport to go to work at Ontelaunee Orchards,” Horst said. “As a grown man with his own family to feed, he grew all our fruits and vegetables.
“He had one of the biggest gardens you have ever seen. He has downsized only slightly in the past few years.
“With a small orchard including pear, peach, fig and paw paw trees, it is quite impressive at any age.”
The Peters’ flower gardens feature a variety of colors and plants that attract numerous butterflies.
“This year they planted zinnia seeds, and the volume and colors are a sight to behold,” Horst said.
The Peters talked about their love of gardening in an email they sent to the Reading Eagle.
Why is gardening important to you?
Lowell: It helps me to relax andleavemyworriesbehind.
Roseanne: It adds to the happiness in your life.
How does your garden reflect your personality?
Lowell and Roseanne: It
reflects both of our colorful personalities.
What has been your greatest garden
Lowell and Roseanne: The zinnias this year.
Whatwas your worst gardening mistake?
Lowell and Roseann: Not getting a head start on the weeds.
What are your favorite plant and season?
Lowell: It’s too hard to
Roseanne: Lilacs in the spring.
What is your favorite
gardening book or resource?
Lowell: My favorite resource is my past gardening experience.
Roseanne: Nature is the book I go by.
What’s the best advice you have for other gardeners?
Lowell: Plan ahead for the next season and the challenges it will bring.
Roseanne: Water often and be patient.
A downsized master bedroom in a downtown condo incorporates colors from the painting and the armchair. The wall color brings some richness to the space.
place can make unpacking and settling in go smoothly.
The organizing company Organize Me says that homeowners should consider how cabinets and closets will be used before moving in.
Downsizing can free up time and money. When done right, downsizing can make retirement easier and createmore leisure time for retirees.