Read by Matilda Longbottom

AAmidst the lush greenery of my backyard, I embark on a delightful scavenger hunt among the strawberry plants. Each leaf holds the promise of a hidden treasure, be it a plump red berry or a half-eaten surprise left by one of our mischievous critters. As I navigate through the foliage, memories of our beloved porch cat and the forgotten flagstone beneath the strawberry patch flood my mind.

It’s mid-June, and to my surprise, the strawberry season seems to be prematurely nearing its end. In the fleeting span of two weeks, we’ve indulged in succulent strawberry-rhubarb pies, jars of homemade jam, and daily handfuls of fresh berries atop our morning cereal. The strawberry patch, a gift from my mother-in-law years ago, has become a cherished part of our Summer harvest.

Initially planted near the back fence, the strawberries struggled until I relocated them to a sunnier spot next to the house, near Kitty’s favorite porch. Their revival marked the beginning of a silent rivalry with my prized tomato patch, which occupies the sunniest corner of our garden. Year after year, the strawberries stealthily encroached upon the coveted south-facing soil, forcing my tomatoes into less favorable growing spots.

Despite their relentless expansion, I couldn’t help but admire the strawberries’ determination. Their tendrils reached across cracks in the sidewalk, weaving through the azalea hedge, claiming victory in what seemed like a never-ending Garden War. Yet, amidst their triumph, a revelation struck me: strawberries fade by the end of June, leaving behind vacant space that my tomatoes could occupy.

With newfound hope for coexistence, I decided to experiment. What if, instead of viewing them as adversaries, strawberries and tomatoes could share the same soil? Planting tomatoes among the fading strawberry plants seemed like a whimsical solution to our seasonal dilemma.

As I dig into the earth, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. Will this unconventional gardening tactic yield fruitful results, or will it be another chapter in the ongoing saga of Garden Wars? Only time will tell. ❖

About the Author: Becky Tompkins is a passionate gardener and storyteller based in Ohio. With a love for nature and a keen eye for the whimsical side of life, she finds inspiration in the everyday beauty of her surroundings. When she’s not tending to her garden or crafting tales of horticultural adventures, Becky enjoys exploring the outdoors and capturing the wonders of the natural world through her writing. She believes that gardening is not just a hobby but a way of life, fostering a deep connection to the earth and all its wonders.