We've only been in our wonderful new house since July. Sadly, we know nothing about the trees, bushes, and plants all around us (though I had some organic gardening experience long, long, long ago). Only when an aunt comes by in April will we even have a shot at knowing what's already going on here.

But those who preceeded us actually landscaped the place, and quite handsomely. One gem, out front, is a Japanese maple we've been led to believe may even be valuable. Trouble is, the drought's been hard on it. Last I saw signs of life, only one branch had any leaves...

Could there be hope of revival? Nothing's been done over the winter, but we'd sure like to know how we can revive this beauty.

A garden starts anew.