July 23, 2019 St. Phocas the Gardener, Frances Ropes Williams, John Goldie, Raymond A. Foss, The Living Landscape by Rick Darke and Doug Tallamy, Wedding Tulle, and Cashew Tarragon Pesto
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Monologue
Today, Catholics honor St. Phocas the Gardener, who lived in Turkey during the third century.
A protector of persecuted Christians, Phocas grew crops in his garden to help feed the poor.
Phocas is remembered for his hospitality and generosity; his garden played an essential role in expressing both virtues.
When Roman soldiers were sent to kill him, they could not find shelter for the night.
Naturally, when Phocas encountered them, he not only offered them lodging but a meal made from the bounty of his garden. During the meal, Phocas realized they had come for him. While the soldiers slept that night, he dug his own grave and prayed for the soldiers. In the morning, Phocas told the soldiers who he was, and the soldiers, who could conceive of no other option, reluctantly killed him and buried him in the grave he had dug for himself.
Although gardening can be a solitary activity, may we follow in the footsteps of Phocas, the gardener, and use our gardens to connect with others through generosity and hospitality.
Botanical History On This Day
1883 Frances Ropes Williams, MIT graduate and pioneering hosta hybridizer, was born. He forever changed the American shade garden.
1886 John Goldie, Scottish botanist and intrepid plant explorer, died after a lifetime of discovery and quiet devotion to ferns.
Unearthed Words
A gentle summer storm unfolds in Summer Rain by Raymond A. Foss
Grow That Garden Library™
Read The Daily Gardener's review of The Living Landscape by Rick Darke and Doug Tallamy
Buy the book on Amazon: The Living Landscape by Rick Darke and Doug Tallamy
Today's Botanic Spark
A fragrant kitchen interlude with Cashew Tarragon Pesto, perfect for peak summer harvests.
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And remember: For a happy, healthy life, garden every day.
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