What’s your best advice for the beginning gardener?

Linda: Don’t overbuy. Just because something is on sale or is beautiful, don’t plant more than you can take care of. The first two years are important. Start slow.

Sam: Yeah, this advice comes from the same woman who just bought six roses on sale that we have no room for.

Hey, I think we’re doing this interview because she overbought daylilies 14 years ago.

Linda: Yeah, but really, sales are good. Gardening can be expensive. Go to a good garden center. If you’re busy with work or children, you should still garden. Don’t feel bad about keeping it low-key. Just wait until you retire to go really crazy like we have.

What does it take to have an award-winning garden? Persistence. Sam and Linda grow more than just daylilies. You name it; we bet it’s in their garden somewhere. In 2002, their yard was one of four first-prize winners in the All-American Lawn Contest sponsored by Lowe’s and Briggs & Stratton.