Hey everyone! I'm in a bit of a pickle with my tomato plants and could use some advice. This is my first year gardening, and let's just say I got a bit carried away. I started with around 40-50 tomato plants back in February, thinking I could handle it all. I ended up planting 12 in the ground and giving away a bunch, but I still have about 15 full-grown plants left that I just can't take care of. They're on my back porch and are starting to look sickly, mainly because they've been infested with aphids. I feel like I'm neglecting them, and it's really weighing on me emotionally, especially after losing my dad recently. I've poured my grief into these plants, and now I'm torn about what to do with these extras that I can't keep. Do I just toss them in the compost or trash? Let them die slowly? I could really use some guidance on how to handle this situation without feeling like I'm being cruel to them.
3 Answers
You might want to just stick those extra plants in the ground around your yard and let nature handle it. Maybe some will fruit, maybe they’ll fade away, but at least you won’t have to stress about them anymore. You've got enough healthy plants in your garden already, so let the extras be a part of nature—even if they don't make it, they can still contribute to the ecosystem. Just forget about them for a bit.
Yes, this sounds like the perfect solution. Sometimes just letting go is the best option!
Honestly, if they’re stressing you out too much, don’t hesitate to compost them. It’s a part of gardening; sometimes things just don’t work out, you know? Focus on the plants that are thriving and bring you joy. Sending good vibes your way as you navigate through your feelings about your dad too. Remember, it’s okay to let go.
Exactly, every gardener has to make tough calls sometimes. Do what feels right for your mental space.
And remember, you’ve given a lot of love to those already thriving ones! It’s okay to say farewell to the extras.
You could check out local gardening groups or buy-nothing communities online to see if anyone wants to take them off your hands. I often give away my extras, and it feels great knowing they’ll thrive with someone else. Plus, it’s a nice way to share the love. Sorry to hear about your dad; I can only imagine how tough that has been for you.
Totally agree! I always love giving my extras away and seeing them flourish in someone else’s garden.
Food banks or community gardens are another great option, just like you said. It spreads the joy!
Absolutely! You've done so much already, and stressing over a few more isn’t worth it. Just plant them wherever and see how it goes. Who knows, they might surprise you and start thriving on their own.