Discussion Forum on Systems Thinking

System Thinker and Right Plant Right Place!

System Thinker and Right Plant Right Place!

de Robin Larkin -
Número de respuestas: 1

Pondering the question of being a system thinker and 'right plant-right place', made me think back to a time when I planted a beatufiul  Prunus 'Kanzan', (Common name: Kwanzan Cherry) in my perennial garden. The tree was placed in the middle of a bunch of Shasta dasies and Liatris. But unfortunately, when the tree reached maturity, it not only shaded out my sunny plant lovers, but it utilized much of the water and nutrients in the soil, causing my plants to suffer. They were eventualy removed and relocated to a more suitable spot, where they still happily reside. I did not think ahead to what impact this addition would have on the surrounding plants as the tree matured. A mistake I hopefully won't make again! On a good note, It did attract more birds to the garden! 

Hope everyone is enjoying their day!

Robin

En respuesta a Robin Larkin

Re: System Thinker and Right Plant Right Place!

de Kathleen Burns -
This is such a great example of “right plant, right place” in real life. I think most of us have a story like that — planting something beautiful without fully thinking through what it will look like in 10 or 15 years.

It’s easy to focus on how a plant looks when we buy it and forget to picture its mature size, root system, and impact on surrounding plants. Your experience with the cherry shading and competing with the perennials is exactly the kind of lesson that sticks with us.

And honestly, this is something homeowners run into all the time. Sharing stories like this helps them understand why spacing, sunlight, and long-term planning matter. It also shows that gardening is a learning process, not a one-time perfect decision.

And attracting more birds? That’s a win. 😊

Thank you for reflecting on it and sharing — these are the kinds of real examples that make us better gardeners and better educators.

Kathleen