I confess — I’m a lazy gardener. In July, my idea of working in the garden consists of removing seed pods from the fuchsias and trimming a few parsley and basil sprigs for dinner. I don’t have to spend time spraying for harmful insects and diseases, because the birds and other creatures I encourage in my garden provide natural pest control. Having wildlife in the garden saves time and money, too.

What is it about a river that loves its bend?

I feel sorry for them. They are the wallflowers of the nursery. Shoppers barely glance their way before moving on to attention-getters like dinner-plate dahlias.