I live on almost 7 acres, most all of it wooded. I was stunned at how horrible the soil is here, no worms, ground like concrete. Certainly not a gardeners delight. The foundation plantings have done well only because I brought in good soil, and they were babied beyond belief. I made the decision to do a lot of container gardening until I could enrich the soil in newly planned garden areas one by one. Three of the nine years I have lived here have been the hottest on record, and conserving water is always a priority. Most of my containers include hardy perennials that once established do well with minimal watering. Each year a garden space has been expanded or a new area planted. Finally last year I started finding an occasional worm in the ground soil! Anyway, here are just a few photos of my gardens. Many more will be added, especially as I post on gardening in all it wondrous aspects, including the challenges and joy every gardener faces.