A great pleasure of my long career in the gardening business has been annual visits to many nursery growing operations across the country. In four decades traveling, I’ve made many wonderful acquaintances and learned lessons that have turned a job into a hobby and obsession. But now, with my looming retirement, this will be my last trip.

Surely, the drudgery of driving (riding) thirty-five hundred miles through the southeast on this July trip will not be missed, but every stop along the way is treasured. Several old friends have preceded me into retirement with the next generation taking over. Yesterday, we toured through a tree nursery in the mountains of North Carolina with two brothers (above). I remember when they rode bicycles around their home field as we toured with their dad.

Of course, after every trip, I’m inspired to add a few treasures to the garden. I am now certain to add a ‘Carolina Sweetheart’ redbud (above), no matter that after adding several redbuds a year ago, and two Japanese maples a few weeks ago following my trip to Oregon, there is no space for another tree. I’ll make it work, somehow.

As the garden has become crowded with one collection after another, I’ve concluded that the next step beyond plant nerd is idiot. I’m sure my wife will agree. Happily, the redbuds and other favorites will forever be reminders of my visits, and friends gained through my travels will be cherished memories.