Joy, I have a severely degenerative spine...probably started in my 20's. Even 20 years ago almost all of the disks in my neck and lower back were herniated. My last visit to a spine surgeon was 16 years ago and he gave me about 15 years before I wouldn't be able to walk. Since then I have only slowed down a little. I actually attribute this to gardening. It keeps me moving, flexible, and motivated. I try to use good body mechanics and pace myself. Admittely I don't always do that; sometimes I have to just stop and lay down and pack myself in ice. I can't take anti-inflammatory drugs, so I use ice. If I didn't keep working out in the yard, I feel like I would kind of turn into a concete block. Now there's a good argument for keeping a garden if I ever heard one!

Jeanie, I am almost as bad with the spine problem. They suggested surgery, I offered him a NO. I can take the drugs so I am sticking with those as long as possible. I have suffeed with the back problem for 40 yrs. I think I can do another 40.

I think they would have to bury me if someone told me I was going to have to live in a concrete jungle. I would be telling DH see you.. Come and visit me in the garden whenever you like. I have 4 acres I have gardens in about 2 of those acres. Some are just bush and bulbs gardens but I love every minute of visiting and working in my gardens. It keeps me sane and healthy. Sitting will age you quicker and send you to a early grave. Ask any doctor.

Cinta. I have been to many spine surgeons, and they all said absolutely no to surgery. I probably wouldn't do it anyway because the results are so uncertain. I get steroid shots in my neck and lower back periodically, and they help a lot.
Wow, I don't see how you can manage two acres. I have a city lot and a half and can barely manage that.

Joy, Jeanie and Cinta, I'm with you with the physical limitations, but no way am I going to give up gardening. with Frillylily, there must be a way to compromise with your DH about a concrete garden. You all are on to something. Gardening does keep us healthy. With FM, you have to keep flexible or you will turn into concrete when your muscles stiffen. Surgery is a No for me as far as degenerative spine, also. I'll just keep taking my pain meds, using my bed buddy, my beloved heating pad and keep gardening to my hearts content. It's the world's best therapy.

I too find that the heating pad is a gardeners best friend. I would also give anything to have one of those walk in tubs, but there is just no place to put one in this house. There is just no remedy for me like soaking in a jetted tub. It's like a miracle for what ails me!!!

Ooh, that sounds delightful.

It is delightful when you're retiring after a long day in the garden. It's better when you add some epsom salts.

I want a hardy hibiscus that has very dark rick velvety black colored blooms. One of those that has the dinner plate size blooms.

Anyone know of anything in the works? I would pay a piece of money for that.

The darkest hardy Hibiscus I've seen is 'Heartthrob'.